Wicked Ruin: A Dark Irish Mafia Forbidden Love Romance

The McCarthy Family Legacy #3

by Jane Henry

A sexy Friends to Lovers, Secret Baby, Forbidden Dark romance

He has a fiancée. But I’m carrying his secret.

I’ve been in love with Declan McCarthy for years. He’s dangerous. Forbidden. Already promised to another woman.

Every instinct told me to run the night he kissed me. I stayed anyway.

Now I’m carrying his baby and he doesn’t know it.

Declan’s sense of duty keeps him blind to the one person who’s loved him all along. I’ve spent years pining for a man who can't chose me.

Except now I can't hide this secret anymore.

If the truth comes out, I become a target. And the only man standing between me and the vengeance that's going to unleash is Declan.

Too bad, they don’t know he’s also the man who will burn the whole world down before he lets anyone touch what's his.

Tropes :
- Accidental pregnancy
- Surprise baby
- Secret hookups
- Forbidden love
- Found family
- Friends to lovers
- Hurt/comfort
- Irish hero
- Virgin heroine

Genres: Romance, Friends To Lovers, Dark Romance, Contemporary, BDSM, Found Family, Dark

432 pages, Paperback

Published July 31, 2026

About the author

Fueled by dark chocolate and even darker coffee, USA Today bestselling author Jane Henry writes what she loves to read – character-driven, unputdownable romance featuring dominant alpha males and the powerful heroines who bring them to their knees. She’s believed in the power of love and romance since Belle won over the beast, and finally decided to write love stories of her own.

Reviews

[Katie Murphy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wicked Ruin is book 3 in the McCarthy Legacy series and this book follows Bridget Kavanagh who is the sister to Erin Kavanagh (Wicked altar) and Declan McCarthy.

If you have read Erin’s book you will understand that Bridget has been battling with aplastic anemia but after the exile of her parents Erin brought in the best specialists to ensure she would come out on top. I love with this book that we get a brief introduction to how Declan and Bridget meet before we actually get into the thick of their story, as it shows that yes while the attraction is clearly there between the pair the developed a friendship prior to this and also Declan was present for Bridget during her stays in the hospital. Their contact goes patchy after Declan is sent to Boston for a job and this brings us to the present day.

Remember I mentioned that Erin and Bridget’s parents were exiled, well because Erin was married to a McCarthy she was safe from this exile but Bridget was not so Declan went and pleaded his case to his cousin Seamus aka the head of the McCarthy family. He vowed that he will do anything that Seamus asks of him even subject himself to an arranged marriage for the family as long as Bridget remains under the McCarthy family protection. I mean swoon this man was willing to sacrifice his happiness to ensure she would remain safe and protected. Similar to Erin, Bridget definitely fitted right in with the McCarthy family and she was not judged based on the sins of her parents.

Of course the day comes that Declan must now step up and marry for the better of the family. Bridget and Declan knew their time was limited but they just wanted one night together because everything went downhill but what they did not expect to come from this was a pregnancy. Of course in the beginning Bridget was determined to hide it because Declan was engaged to someone else and it would be quite difficult to call off the marriage especially when the alliance was needed. That being said even before Declan found out about the baby he knew he needed to find a loophole out of this marriage because while he may have been engaged to another his thoughts were fully consumed of Bridget and not his future wife and honestly this only intensified when he found out there was a baby on the way.

Bridget was such a strong soul, between battling her illness and fighting hard to keep her baby protected I absolutely loved her. Declan was possessive and obsessed with his woman but Declan realising he’ll be a father was just even more intensified and that’s just how I liked him as there is nothing better of a man protective over his family.

I don’t want to give too much away about this book but I absolutely loved Bridget and Declan’s story. Thank you to the author and VPR who provided this e-arc for my honest thoughts 💭

[Sarah Redetzke · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought it was a great book. It is a dark mafia romance. If you're a fan of that genre, this is definitely one to check out. The chemistry between the characters is great.

[Emmy Wong · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was named accurately alright because it was my freaking RUIN. I read this book in one sitting because I became obsessed with Declan and Bridget’s story and needed their HEA. When I read Wicked Altar I was already obsessed with the tension and insane chemistry between them, and still Jane Henry managed to completely blow my mind. If you’re looking for an obsessed mmc, this is what you should read because Declan is a whipped boy from start to finish. The book starts from what we’ve seen in Wicked Altar (Bridget’s sister Erin’s book which I recommend you read but if not totally required) with Bridget facing a terminal illness and Declan going out of his way to support her through it. Despite the clear love and longing between them they claim to be “just friends” when it’s obviously they’re anything but. Honestly those texts when Declan was away had me crying straight from page 30 because of showing touching it was. But the forbidden romance part of this book slapped harder than anything, he’s got to marry someone else for a family alliance and she’s forced to watch. Talk about freaking tragic, like every time they said “goodbye” or resisted each other I broke down. Have your tissues nearby because this book is a tear fest like my poor eyes never caught a break. Declan is like the McCarthy family’s loyal soldier but is most loyal to his love Bridget and gosh the way he treats her has me melting into a puddle. He also wears glasses, dropped onto his knees in front of her and throws himself on top of her to protect her from harm, like you can’t not love him. I greatly admired and connected with Bridget, as she’s this bubbly sunshine who has to keep everyone happy even when she’s sad inside. But the way Declan adores her has her finally putting herself first and I love that for her. Their love quite literally reached out of the page and put a spell on my poor little heart because I was crying g and giggling my way through. I cannot recommend this masterpiece enough because that’s just how good it is. Jane Henry seriously outdid herself with this one and I cannot wait to see what comes next with our favourite jailbird. I give this a 5/5

[Karon Price · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved, loved, loved. If you've been reading the series, you already know these two characters. Bridget is Bianca's sister and has lived with a life threatening illness most of her life. After their parents betrayed the McCarthy Family Declan made the ultimate sacrifice, his life (but not death) for hers. Seamus has control of Declan now and arranges a marriage with an Italian family from New York. But no one know that he traded his future so the McCarthy's would make Bridget one of theirs. This book was so amazing because you are able to see the progression of their relationship, literally over the years. So a ONS and resulting pregnancy through a big wrench in the engagement plans. But there is more at foot than just this fraught relationship. The McCarthy's are under fire from all sides and need money and allies. But there's more going on that meets the eye. I figured one of the characters wasn't what they seemed, but the truth really surprised me. Thankfully Seamus was able to give this couple the HEA they both deserved.

[WinkingReads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Amazing read! I loved the plot, the tension, and the chemistry between Bridget and Declan. They are just perfect for each other, and the way they longed for one another was everything.

I also loved the way Dec goes soft only for Bridget and goes above and beyond to make sure she's protected, even giving up everything just for he. He's such a compassionate and gentle person, and after everything Bridget has been through she deserves Dec...

I was stressing over what kind of ending Bridget and Declan would get, but it was worth it. The little plot twist towards the end was immaculate and it left me with so many questions and wanting more.

I need Torin's book please🥹🤭 will he be getting one?

🎀𝕱𝖆𝖛 𝕼𝖚𝖔𝖙𝖊𝖘:
✨️When Declan McCarthy says I promise, I’ll be there, and I love you … he means it. And always has.
✨️“My pulse. My heartbeat.”

✨️“I love you, Bridget. All I want is you. You and this baby that’s ours.”

✨️“ Is ar scáth a chéile a mhaireann na daoine.”
“It means—we live in each other's shadow. In each other's shelter.”

✨️“We're grand, you and I.”
✨️I made a vow once to keep her safe. And I make a vow now that I’ll do anything to keep us together. Anything.

✨️“I want to hear you. Be a good girl and let me hear you, baby. Just like that. I like to know you're happy, that you like it, that you're mine.”

🖤Dark Irish Mafia Romance
🖤Forbidden Love Romance
🖤V!rgin FMC
🖤Secret Hookups
🖤Friends to Lovers
🖤Hurt/Comfort
🖤Accidental Pregancy

𝓡𝓪𝓽𝓲𝓷𝓰: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.68
𝓢𝓹𝓲𝓬𝓮 𝓛𝓮𝓿𝓮𝓵: 🌶🌶🌶🌶

[Trish · Rating 5 out of 5]

♥️Mafia
♥️Accidental Pregnancy
♥️Forbidden Love
♥️Found Family

Wicked Ruin is the third book in the McCarthy Family Legacy series, and this one was such an emotional read! The yearning between Bridget and Declan was so strong that I could feel it through the pages.

Bridget is completely in love with Declan, but she knows they can’t be together. Declan is deeply loyal to his family and the obligations that come with it, and he’ll do whatever it takes to keep the people he loves safe. Their story is filled with so much love, longing, and friendship, and you can feel the connection between them from the very beginning.

I absolutely love everything about the McCarthy family and this world! I’m completely invested in their stories and cannot wait to see where Jane Henry takes us next!

[Sarah Marks · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love the McCarthy family! Not only do they always have some sort of drama going on they have the most delicious morally grey men. Declan however is so soft and squishy one the inside especially when it come to Bridgett. I love these two have been mutually pining for each other for years. It is Crystle clear that they belong together (despite him being engaged to another woman). They would sacrifice anything for the other person and it is just so happy making. I cannot wait for more of this series.

[Donna reads Romance · Rating 5 out of 5]

Press Play… and Prepare to Lose Your Heart

Some romances you read. Wicked Ruin you FEEL.

I was completely BLOWN AWAY by this story. I became so immersed in Declan and Bridget’s world that everything else disappeared around me.
I listened to this entire audiobook in ONE DAY because once I started, there was simply no way I could stop. I was too emotionally invested in these two to walk away.

And the audiobook performance? It hits HARD. Wes Ross and Kai Kennicott were phenomenal. Their voices carried every ounce of longing, tenderness, tension, heartbreak, and desire. They didn’t simply narrate Declan and Bridget’s story…they made me FEEL it. Every emotional moment landed harder, every quiet moment felt more intimate and I was completely wrapped up in their world.

Bridget? I adore her. After fighting through sickness and winning that battle, she finally gets the chance to truly live again and watching her find that strength, embrace life and then fall for the one man she shouldn’t have made her journey even more meaningful. Her directness, strength, personality and genuinely endearing nature made her impossible not to love. I found myself rooting for her, hurting for her and wanting her to have everything her heart deserved.

And Declan… OH, DECLAN. I absolutely LOVE this man. He is everything I want in a book boyfriend. He may be part of the Irish Mob and have that dangerous side, but with Bridget, he is wonderfully low-key. I loved seeing him simply spend time with her in her apartment, taking care of her, protecting her and making sure she was okay. There is something incredibly sexy about a dangerous, powerful man who becomes gentle and attentive with the woman he cares about. That tenderness made me fall for him even harder.

Their friendship felt so genuine and effortless and knowing Bridget had been quietly carrying feelings for Declan made watching it evolve into something deeper, forbidden and impossible to resist absolutely heartbreaking and beautiful.

But watching Declan struggle beneath the weight of his family obligations and sense of duty broke my heart. His heart belongs to Bridget, yet he is expected to honor a life he never truly wanted. And when we learn what Declan gave up to protect Bridget after her parents betrayed the McCarthys, that moment was incredibly powerful. It showed just how deeply he had already put Bridget before himself and I swear, it only intensified every reason I was already falling for this man.

Their situation is anything but simple. Declan’s arranged marriage already makes their love forbidden and Bridget begins to suspect something isn’t quite right with his bride-to-be. That added mystery and uncertainty brought another layer of tension that kept me completely captivated .

And the McCarthy family? I absolutely loved them. Their loyalty, protectiveness, friendships, teasing and unwavering love add so much heart. They feel like a real family and I became just as invested in them.

Jane Henry gave me everything I crave: friendship, forbidden love, longing, danger, emotional angst, family bonds, explosive chemistry and incredible spice.

I laughed. I swooned. I worried. I ached. I burned. I felt EVERYTHING.

And the audiobook made me feel it all even harder.

This isn’t just an audiobook you listen to. It gets under your skin, pulls at your heart and makes you live the story alongside them.

Wicked Ruin is an absolutely phenomenal story and an unforgettable audiobook experience.

A MUST-READ. A MUST-LISTEN. And Declan McCarthy has officially earned his place on my list of unforgettable book boyfriends.

[Elif Hazar · Rating 5 out of 5]

ᴡɪᴄᴋᴇᴅ ʀᴜɪɴ || ᴀʀᴄ ʀᴇᴠɪᴇᴡ

“𝓘 𝓵𝓸𝓿𝓮 𝔂𝓸𝓾,𝓝𝓸 𝓶𝓪𝓽𝓽𝓮𝓻 𝔀𝓱𝓪𝓽 𝓱𝓪𝓹𝓹𝓮𝓷𝓼, 𝓑𝓻𝓲𝓭𝓰𝓮𝓽, 𝔂𝓸𝓾 𝓷𝓮𝓮𝓭 𝓽𝓸 𝓻𝓮𝓶𝓮𝓶𝓫𝓮𝓻 𝓽𝓱𝓪𝓽.”

✨5/5
🌶️3/5

Goodness me, can a book’s prologue really draw you in straight away? Well, Bridget and Declan certainly do!! An engagement, a surprise pregnancy, forbidden love, a couple madly in love with each other and burning with passion… Their love is so beautiful, so deep and so forbidden, yet just as ‘special’

𝑯𝒆 𝒉𝒂𝒔 𝒂 𝒇𝒊𝒂𝒏𝒄𝒆𝒆. 𝑩𝒖𝒕 𝑰’𝒎 𝒄𝒂𝒓𝒓𝒚𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒔𝒆𝒄𝒓𝒆𝒕. 𝑰’𝒗𝒆 𝒃𝒆𝒆𝒏 𝒊𝒏 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝑫𝒆𝒄𝒍𝒂𝒏 𝑴𝒄𝑪𝒂𝒓𝒕𝒉𝒚 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒚𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒔. 𝑯𝒆’𝒔 𝒅𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆𝒓𝒐𝒖𝒔. 𝑭𝒐𝒓𝒃𝒊𝒅𝒅𝒆𝒏. 𝑨𝒍𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒚 𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒎𝒊𝒔𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝒂𝒏𝒐𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒘𝒐𝒎𝒂𝒏.

𝑰’𝒎 𝒄𝒂𝒓𝒓𝒚𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒃𝒂𝒃𝒚 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒉𝒆 𝒅𝒐𝒆𝒔𝒏’𝒕 𝒌𝒏𝒐𝒘 𝒊𝒕.

Does every moment a couple shares burn with such intense passion? At the bar where Bridget went to lose her virginity, Declan snatched her from a stranger’s grasp, rescued her and protected her. He took an interest in her, but Bridget’s wildness and her self-defence. And Declan telling Bridget what they would do if she were his – and oh, of course, Bridget, I’d imagined that moment too.

“𝑌𝑜𝑢’𝑟𝑒 𝑛𝑜𝑡 𝑚𝑖𝑛𝑒.𝐴𝑛𝑑 𝑖𝑡’𝑠 𝑣𝑒𝑟𝑦 𝑙𝑢𝑐𝑘𝑦 𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑦𝑜𝑢 𝑡ℎ𝑎𝑡 𝑦𝑜𝑢’𝑟𝑒 𝑛𝑜𝑡.𝐵𝑒𝑐𝑎𝑢𝑠𝑒 𝑖𝑓 𝑦𝑜𝑢 𝑤𝑒𝑟𝑒 𝑚𝑖𝑛𝑒, 𝐵𝑟𝑖𝑑𝑔𝑒𝑡, 𝐼’𝑑 ℎ𝑎𝑣𝑒 𝑑𝑟𝑎𝑔𝑔𝑒𝑑 𝑦𝑜𝑢 𝑏𝑦 𝑡ℎ𝑎𝑡 𝑔𝑜𝑟𝑔𝑒𝑜𝑢𝑠 ℎ𝑎𝑖𝑟 𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑜 𝑎 𝑏𝑎𝑐𝑘 𝑟𝑜𝑜𝑚 𝑎𝑙𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑑𝑦, 𝑏𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑦𝑜𝑢 𝑜𝑣𝑒𝑟 𝑎 𝑠𝑝𝑎𝑛𝑘𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑏𝑒𝑛𝑐ℎ, 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑠ℎ𝑜𝑤𝑛 𝑦𝑜𝑢 𝑒𝑥𝑎𝑐𝑡𝑙𝑦 ℎ𝑜𝑤 𝑖𝑡’𝑠 𝑢𝑠𝑒𝑑.”

“𝐴𝑛𝑑 𝑡ℎ𝑎𝑡 𝑤𝑜𝑢𝑙𝑑 𝑜𝑛𝑙𝑦 𝑏𝑒 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑏𝑒𝑔𝑖𝑛𝑛𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑜𝑓 𝑦𝑜𝑢𝑟 𝑝𝑢𝑛𝑖𝑠ℎ𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑐𝑜𝑚𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑖𝑛 ℎ𝑒𝑟𝑒 𝑡𝑜𝑛𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡, 𝑢𝑛𝑎𝑐𝑐𝑜𝑚𝑝𝑎𝑛𝑖𝑒𝑑 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑢𝑛𝑤𝑒𝑙𝑐𝑜𝑚𝑒.”

And the first kiss… Declan losing himself in Bridget’s presence and telling her what kind of love she deserves—protecting her from one-night stands and heartbreak, yet being unable to escape her spell; and with every response she gave, he was drawn to her even more; and, of course, the moment that kiss finally came—the one he’d claimed was to prove something, but which he’d actually been burning to give her from the very moment he first laid eyes on her

“𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒅𝒆𝒔𝒆𝒓𝒗𝒆 𝒔𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒐𝒏𝒆 𝒘𝒉𝒐 𝒘𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒎𝒂𝒌𝒆 𝒊𝒕 𝒎𝒆𝒎𝒐𝒓𝒂𝒃𝒍𝒆. 𝑺𝒑𝒆𝒄𝒊𝒂𝒍. 𝑺𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒐𝒏𝒆 𝒘𝒉𝒐 𝒘𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒕𝒂𝒌𝒆 𝒈𝒐𝒐𝒅 𝒄𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝒚𝒐𝒖.”
“𝑷𝒆𝒐𝒑𝒍𝒆 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒄𝒂𝒔𝒖𝒂𝒍 𝒔𝒆𝒙 𝒂𝒍𝒍 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒆. 𝑰𝒕’𝒔 𝒏𝒐𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒃𝒊𝒈 𝒂 𝒅𝒆𝒂𝒍.”
“𝑶𝒉, 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒚? 𝑭𝒊𝒏𝒆, 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒏, 𝑻𝒓𝒐𝒖𝒃𝒍𝒆.𝑳𝒆𝒕’𝒔 𝒇𝒊𝒏𝒅 𝒐𝒖𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒅𝒊𝒇𝒇𝒆𝒓𝒆𝒏𝒄𝒆 𝒃𝒆𝒕𝒘𝒆𝒆𝒏…”

Declan and Bridget’s desire to give themselves just one night together before they become trapped on a path where both their lives will be lost in an impossible love and spent apart. They long for each other madly, yearn to become one, and need just one night to experience in reality those countless passionate moments they have conjured up in their dreams.

𝑂𝑛𝑒 𝑛𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡. 𝐼’𝑚 𝑎𝑙𝑙𝑜𝑤𝑒𝑑 𝑜𝑛𝑒 𝑛𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡.
𝑂𝑛𝑒 𝑠𝑡𝑜𝑙𝑒𝑛 𝑒𝑣𝑒𝑛𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑖𝑛 𝑎 𝑠𝑡𝑟𝑒𝑡𝑐ℎ 𝑜𝑓 𝑡ℎ𝑜𝑢𝑠𝑎𝑛𝑑𝑠 𝑜𝑓 𝑜𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑟 𝑒𝑣𝑒𝑛𝑖𝑛𝑔𝑠,
𝐽𝑢𝑠𝑡 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑡𝑤𝑜 𝑜𝑓 𝑢𝑠, 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑤𝑎𝑦 𝑖𝑡 𝑠ℎ𝑜𝑢𝑙𝑑 𝑏𝑒.
𝑤𝑒 𝑛𝑒𝑒𝑑 𝑡𝑜𝑛𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡, 𝐷𝑒𝑐𝑙𝑎𝑛.
𝐽𝑢𝑠𝑡 𝑡𝑜𝑛𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡.

Which scene made me admire Declan’s love? It was the decision to punish Bridget and Erin for what their families had done, but as Erin’s punishment was to marry Cavin, only Bridget remained; and Declan, for the sake of his closest friend—the woman he was in love with, whom he visited in hospital and tried so hard to make happy—sacrificed himself for the entire McCarthy family to ensure nothing would happen to her. His wealth, his own freedom, everything about himself… He was willing to give up even himself, just so that Bridget could be happy, remain unharmed, and be protected as part of the family.

“𝒀𝒐𝒖 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒕 𝑩𝒓𝒊𝒅𝒈𝒆𝒕 𝑲𝒂𝒗𝒂𝒏𝒂𝒈𝒉 𝒕𝒐 𝒘𝒂𝒍𝒌 𝒂𝒘𝒂𝒚 𝒇𝒓𝒐𝒎 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒖𝒏𝒕𝒐𝒖𝒄𝒉𝒆𝒅.𝑾𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒑𝒖𝒕𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒐𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒕𝒂𝒃𝒍𝒆?”
“𝑴𝒆,𝑻𝒂𝒌𝒆 𝒎𝒆.𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒏𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒔𝒂𝒚, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑰 𝒈𝒊𝒗𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈.𝑰𝒏 𝒆𝒙𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆, 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒕𝒆𝒄𝒕 𝑩𝒓𝒊𝒅𝒈𝒆𝒕 𝑲𝒂𝒗𝒂𝒏𝒂𝒈𝒉.”

🖤 Dark Irish Mafia
🚫 Forbidden Love
🫶 Friends to Lovers
🔥 Secret Hookups
👑 Alpha / Protective Hero
🤰 Accidental Pregnancy
🧸 Virgin Heroine
🫂 Found Family
🩹 Hurt/Comfort

[Awilda Abreu · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wicked Ruin by Jane Henry

Bridget Kavanagh & Declan McCarthy — ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ 4.5 Stars

Wicked Ruin was such a quick and addictive read! I literally flew through this book and could easily see myself reading it in one sitting.

Bridget has been in love with Declan for as long as she can remember. But their situation has always been complicated. She is younger than him, and because of everything she has been through with her health, Declan has always tried to keep a certain distance because he never wanted to hurt her.

Bridget has also battled bone marrow cancer, so when she decides she wants to experience something completely outside of her comfort zone and visits a sex club, the last person she expects to find there is Declan.

And then he gives her her first kiss.

After that, everything changes.

Declan eventually leaves for Boston, but before he goes, he asks his family to look after Bridget and keep her safe because of the betrayal involving her family. His family has always treated Bridget as one of their own, especially since one of Declan’s brothers is in a relationship with Bridget’s sister.

Years later, Bridget’s cancer is in remission, and she discovers that Declan is coming back.

But there’s a problem.

He’s engaged.

Declan’s engagement is supposed to create an alliance between his family and the Boston side, so being with Bridget is absolutely forbidden. But once they reconnect, all those feelings they tried to bury come rushing back.

Eventually, Declan gives in.

They begin seeing each other in secret, knowing that he is supposed to marry someone else. And while Bridget technically becomes the other woman, I loved that Declan never treated her like she was disposable or just an affair. His feelings for her were always genuine.

Bridget also gives him her virginity, making their relationship even more meaningful because Declan has been the man she has loved for years.

And then… SURPRISE BABY. 👀

When Bridget starts feeling sick, everyone assumes that her cancer has returned. But the real reason is that she’s pregnant with Declan’s baby.

And now everything becomes even more complicated.

A forbidden relationship. A secret pregnancy. An engagement. Two people who have loved each other for years but are trying to fight something neither of them can ignore.

The tropes in this book were EVERYTHING:

✨ First love
✨ First lover
✨ Forbidden romance
✨ Surprise baby
✨ Accidental pregnancy
✨ Virgin heroine
✨ Secret relationship
✨ Age gap
✨ Mafia romance

And thankfully, we eventually get the happy ending we deserve because the woman Declan was supposed to marry turns out to be an impostor. She had been pretending to be the real Valentina, which means the marriage alliance falls apart.

And finally…

Bridget and Declan get their happily ever after. ❤️

I really enjoyed this book. It was emotional without feeling too heavy, the romance kept me hooked, and the story moved quickly enough that I never felt bored.

Most importantly, it was SO easy to read. This is definitely one of those books you can pick up and devour in one sitting.

Bridget and Declan’s story gave me the forbidden romance, the angst, the surprise pregnancy, and the happily-ever-after I was hoping for.

4.5 stars from me! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨

Definitely recommend if you’re looking for a fast-paced mafia romance with a first-love/forbidden-romance storyline and a surprise baby!

[Wendy Marie (myrisingphoenixera.reads) · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.75⭐️
2.5🌶️
🔥Dark Irish Mafia
🔥Forbidden love
🔥Friends to Lovers
🔥Hurt/Comfort
🔥Accidental Pregnancy
🔥Virgin Heroine
🔥Dual First Person POV

Finally we get Bridget’s story! The unexpected friendship between Bridget and Declan first focused on when she was at their sickest and turned into so more with so much yearning. He shows up for her as a friend checking in on her and brought her food to the hospital. Over the next few years their friendship grows into a crush, Bridget knew nothing could come of it because Declan has to marry for his family. Declan finds himself torn betweeen his love for Bridget and his duty toward his family. He knows he should stay away and let her go but he is consumed with thoughts of her. They decide to allow themselves one night with each other and boy what a night it was. It was both sweet and oh so spicy. Then Declan is called to fulfill his duty and marry for the family. Things start to spiral out of control from there. Declan knew he had to find a way out of his engagement because he loved Bridget. When Bridget starts feeling sick, she fear she’s relapsing, instead she’s pregnant. She tries to carry the secret alone and not contact Declan, but he wasn’t having it. When he finds out he does everything he can to help her and get out of his engagement. He dives into research for specialists she’ll need and things like the safest car seat. Their story is not short on drama and is filled with tension and angst. This was everything I wanted for their story and so much more. It was sweet and heartbreaking. The immediate chemistry and raw emotions kept me mesmerized and why I was able to finish this in one sitting. I was completely captivated by the drama, danger, and all the obstcales they had to go through to get their happy ending.

🚩Be sure to read the author’s note and content warnings before reading.

Plot: 4.5
Engaging: 5
Character: 5

Thank you Jane Henry & Valentine PR for the gifted advanced copy.

📚All thoughts and opinions are my own📚
🐦‍🔥Follow me on socials @myrisingphoenixera.reads🐦‍🔥

A Few Favorite Quotes:
“He’s touching me. Declan’s hand is on mine, and it feels right and good, and I never want him to stop.”

“I want this woman. I want her in the most intimate way possible. I want to bury myself inside her until she forgets her own name. I want to ruin her for every other man.”

“That's my girl. Come on. Give it to me. We're only getting started.”

“I'm not going to think about that. I'm not going to think about how beautiful she is when she comes apart on my mouth, or the way she holds me like we were made for each other,”

“Every divination card I’ve pulled, every tea leaf I’ve read, every sign I’ve looked for from the universe has said the same thing over and over: soulmates.”

“I love you. I know you can’t say it back, and I understand why, but I love you, and I love our baby. And I'm going to do anything to protect you because you're mine.”

“Because when Declan McCarthy says I promise, I’ll be there, and I love you… he means it. And always has.”

[Brianne C · Rating 4 out of 5]

When someone says, “Hey, check out an Irish Mafia romance,” you’ll never get a no from me—you’ll get a “sign me the fuck up.” 🍀🔥

​Enter the chat: "Wicked Ruin" by Jane Henry, the third installment in the McCarthy Family Legacy series (dropping August 14th!). Huge thank you to Jane and Valentine PR for the ARC! This was my first time reading this author, and she is officially going on my instant-buy list. 📥✨

​The Nitty Gritty Plot:
Declan McCarthy and Bridget Kavanagh are brought together after Bridget’s parents cross the clan. What we quickly discover is that Declan made a deal with the head of the family: he vowed to protect her at all costs. From page one, it was always going to be them. ​When Bridget faces a major health scare, what starts as a dream scenario turns into the ultimate Happily Ever After every romance reader craves. When Declan has to leverage clan rules to find a wife, he plays the part—but the sheer depth and layers to this man were something I never saw coming. Then came the 75% plot twist that totally shook things up! While it has all the drama of a true mafia romance, it’s not quite as pitch-black dark as I usually read, but the found-family vibes and emotional payoff made every single page worth it. 👑

​The Vibe:
If you want an alpha male who brings Italian wedding soup to your bedside and keeps your doctor on speed dial 24/7, that’s Declan McCarthy. If you want a fierce, loyal, forgiving, sassy heroine who gives her man a run for his money, enter Bridget Kavanagh. 🤌❤️

​Why You Need to Read It:
➡️ Swoon-worthy Irish nicknames 🫠
➡️ Unstoppable "can't stay away" energy
➡️ He unwraps her like a Christmas present 🎁
➡️ The text conversations are everything
➡️ In a room full of people (even with a fiancée around), he only sees her

​Dual POV:
Dual POV reigns supreme! Getting inside both Declan’s and Bridget’s heads added so much depth to their character development, making their choices and chemistry hit so much harder. 🎧

​Third Act Drama:
Mafia romances are built on secrets. Wicked Ruin gives readers all the unmasking and tension we want without heavy gore or extreme violence. While I personally love a bit more grit, it was wrapped up beautifully. 🖤

​Final Verdict:
If you’re looking for a mafia romance with incredible character growth, angsty banter, classic friends-to-lovers energy, and a fiercely loyal found family, add this to your TBR immediately! 📚💥

​Add to your TBR if your vibe is:
🗝️ Accidental pregnancy
🔪 Surprise baby
🗝️ Secret hookups
🔪 Forbidden love
🗝️ Found family
🔪 Friends to lovers
🗝️ Hurt / comfort
🔪 Irish hero
🗝️ Virgin heroine

[Sassy Southern Book Blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think this could be my favourite book so far in The McCarthy family Legacy books,but its still early days yet so we shall see.
I actually have a confession to make I didn't think I would like the story.
Because in the previous books we learn that Bridget is sick and so I thought it was going to be depressing and sad having a woman be sick,find love then die from her illness.
But I was wrong and glad to be wrong Jane Henry never disappointmed me and the story was not what I had expected.
Yes Bridget is sick and does not want to die a Virgin so goes to a sex club of all places to remedy the problem,along with her sister.
She meets Declan there who is told to take care of her,he is a Dungeon Master at the club they share a passionate kiss and nothing else happens.
But from that night they become good friends through text and occassionaly meeting,they want more but can't cross the line.
Now Bridget's life has been ruled by hospital stays and her illness no decision is ever her own..Until the night she decides that she will have Declan.She has had a crush on him for years and he has been away in Boston for a few years doing Irish family Mafia buisness..Now he is back for good but he is entangled in an arranged marriage that he cannot get out of.So before he marries he wants one night with Bridget and what an unforgettable night it is between them.
That night would have reprecussions that they both never expected.
This is an age gap,forbidden story and I felt it was quite sad at times,because you could feel how much they loved one another,but couldn't be together,there were so many obstacles in the way.
Narration was performed by Wen Ross and Kai Kennicott who has narrated the other books in this series as well.
They both do a wonderful job at keeping up with the Irish accent and portraying the characters.
Wen Ross was great as the bossy Declan who was quite sweet at times too and he did him justice.
Kai Kennicott was fantastic as the sassy and brave Bridget who has fought illness and came through it.
Their voices were smooth and clear and I enjoyed them both reading this book,I have no complaints with way they navigated this love story and made the characters come alive.
I didn't expect that ending,there is a great twist to their story and it only added to the suspense and intrigue.
I loved Bridget and Declan..But I have to say I do hope that the McCarthy brother in jail Tarren gets a book I am so curious about him.
Wicked Ruin is another glorious listen or read by Jane Henry and a perfect edition to the series,it has a little bit of everything and I loved listenig to it.
Fabulous 5 Stars.- Cat W.

[Cat · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think this could be my favourite book so far in The McCarthy family Legacy books,but its still early days yet so we shall see.
I actually have a confession to make I didn't think I would like the story.
Because in the previous books we learn that Bridget is sick and so I thought it was going to be depressing and sad having a woman be sick,find love then die from her illness.
But I was wrong and glad to be wrong Jane Henry never disappointmed me and the story was not what I had expected.
Yes Bridget is sick and does not want to die a Virgin so goes to a sex club of all places to remedy the problem,along with her sister.
She meets Declan there who is told to take care of her,he is a Dungeon Master at the club they share a passionate kiss and nothing else happens.
But from that night they become good friends through text and occassionaly meeting,they want more but can't cross the line.
Now Bridget's life has been ruled by hospital stays and her illness no decision is ever her own..Until the night she decides that she will have Declan.She has had a crush on him for years and he has been away in Boston for a few years doing Irish family Mafia buisness..Now he is back for good but he is entangled in an arranged marriage that he cannot get out of.So before he marries he wants one night with Bridget and what an unforgettable night it is between them.
That night would have reprecussions that they both never expected.
This is an age gap,forbidden story and I felt it was quite sad at times,because you could feel how much they loved one another,but couldn't be together,there were so many obstacles in the way.
Narration was performed by Wen Ross and Kai Kennicott who has narrated the other books in this series as well.
They both do a wonderful job at keeping up with the Irish accent and portraying the characters.
Wen Ross was great as the bossy Declan who was quite sweet at times too and he did him justice.
Kai Kennicott was fantastic as the sassy and brave Bridget who has fought illness and came through it.
Their voices were smooth and clear and I enjoyed them both reading this book,I have no complaints with way they navigated this love story and made the characters come alive.
I didn't expect that ending,there is a great twist to their story and it only added to the suspense and intrigue.
I loved Bridget and Declan..But I have to say I do hope that the McCarthy brother in jail Tarren gets a book I am so curious about him.
Wicked Ruin is another glorious listen or read by Jane Henry and a perfect edition to the series,it has a little bit of everything and I loved listenig to it.
Fabulous 5 Stars.

[Kathy Heare Watts · Rating 5 out of 5]

SOULMATES

The next generation of the McCarthy family saga continues. The story will focus mainly on Declan McCarthy and a union with Bridget Kavanagh. These two aren’t strangers by any means, especially since Declan’s cousin, Cavin McCarthy, is married to Bridget’s sister, Erin. As the story progresses, the connection and ‘friendship’ are exposed. Bridget has been fighting a life-threatening condition, Aplastic anemia, that has hospitalized her for a huge amount of her life. Delcan has been a friend, protector, and support for years.

I’m going to say this now—this story was phenomenal. If I could, I'd give it ten stars! I absolutely loved it-the characters, the secrets, the surprises, and the outcome. Mafia families are joined for power—but sometimes, love and devotion trump alliances. The story begins three years prior, with Bridget going to The Craic, and Cavin and Declan aren’t happy with her and Erin. What Bridget confesses gives him something to think about, but he still sends her away. At this point in the story, Bridget’s future is very uncertain.

Declan: Why are you here, Bridget?
Bridget: I wanted a night out. I wanted…
Declan: No. You could’ve gone to any d..n club in Ballyhock. Why are you here? In this club. Tonight. Tell the truth.
Bridget: To lose my virginity.

As the introduction introduces the tropes, it involves Declan and Bridget spending the night together, culminating in a surprise ending—an accidental pregnancy. The friends-to-lovers trope is meant to happen only once; she wants him to be her first. Declan is expected to do his duty to the family, and he made a deal with the devil many years ago, forfeiting his fortune and agreeing to whatever terms are asked. Now, he has a fiancée and a strong family alliance with the Esposito family, an Italian-American. When the secrets are discovered, how will that affect Declan, Bridget, and the McCarthy family? The closeness of the McCarthy family and how they embrace Erin and Bridget as family, especially Bronwyn. Maybe not everything is as black and white as it should be.

“I sold my soul to the devil once. Now it’s time to collect.”

The story is shrouded in secrets, mystery, suspense, life-and-death danger, and the good, the bad, and the evil. Not everyone is as they seem, especially Valentina Esposito, who wants to be in control, issuing demands and threats. The chemistry between Declan and Bridget is explosive with passion, emotions, and love. The story does have mild power exchange and explicit scenes.

“My pulse. My heartbeat.”

[Karen_Lee_Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wicked Ruin
The McCarthy Family Legacy #3
by Jane Henry

I’m loving this series, three books in and they just keep getting better and better.

Wicked Ruin has Declan McCarthy obsessing over Bridget Kavanagh (sister to Erin who in now married to Cavin) and when I say obsessing I mean the word “Mine” consistently running through his mind.

Bridget is a fighter…no not the kind that get in the ring, she is fighting for her life, Aplastic Anemia! They met at numerous family events and Declan saw the fighter in her, he admired her, he fell in love with her. So one dark night when she has shown up at the family owned Club for a one night stand, so she wouldn’t die a virgin, and that’s the night their “friendship began and made a pact with Declan, one day he would help her do just that. Mind you he’s already given her the biggest gift - but he isn’t going to tell her about it. After all he’s a McCarthy and his job is dangerous.

Of course if you know the McCarthy’s you know that there is always someone going after their businesses or looking for a fight; there is also always going to be a time that one of those handsome Irish mobsters is going to have to bring a Bride into the family. This time it is Declan that has to marry and the biggest problem for both of them is it can’t be Bridget!

Both Declan and Bridget are the kind of couple you root for. They both realize that they can’t marry, a bit of a bummer….even worse when the Bride-to-be shows up.

Never say that Jane Henry doesn’t throw in a few items that will make you suspicious and work to figure out just what is happening.

I am going to say a number of characters had to look at themselves and realize maybe they are wrong….and then there are the McCarthy women who are very suspicious of someone they’ve just met.

There is spice and heat and so much love that you can not help but want to have your own meeting with Seamus and give him a talking to.
I read this book in one day and I know I will going back and reading it again and again. Totally a five star read and you will have a huge smile on your face when you finish.

[TrishAM · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jane Henry is one of my favourite authors, she writes about ruthless, powerful males with a tender side that they don't show and strong, feisty women who will love these men, this book is no exception/ This is the third book in this "McCarthy Family Legacy" series, it can totally be read as a standalone but I would urge reading the books in sequence, you won't regret it.
Bridget Kavanaugh has aplastic anaemia, a life threatening condition, her parents had been exiled by the Irish McCarthy mafia, Bridget should have gone with them but her sister Erin was married to Cavin McCarthy and Cavin's cousin, Declan, sold his sole to Shamus, the head of the McCarthy clan in order to provide protection and keep her safe within the family, little did he know what an impact this would have on his life.
There had always been a connection between Bridget and Declan which started as a deep friendship, he was always at her bedside during hospital admissions.
Bridget knew that her life could be cut short, she wanted to experience everything and a torrid, passionate night with with Declan was definitely one that she could tick off her list, the attraction was electric but the feelings ran deeper than attraction, the feelings were palpable.
Mafia siblings didn't marry for love, they married to form alliances and Declan knew that a bride would be picked for him, a bride that he had never met......that bride was a beautiful, elegant but standoffish and arrogant American, how could Declan keep his pledge to Shamus and marry her when he was deeply in love with Bridget Kavanaugh who was now carrying a McCarthy baby, Declan had to find a solution but this was the mafia and he knew the rules.
Declan had to find an answer quickly, his wife to be was choosing invitations and flowers while Bridget was suffering badly from morning sickness, would Shamus now exile Bridget ?
This story is a real page turner, it has intrigue, it had danger, it has suspense, it has fast action but it also has loyalty, trust and an all encompassing passion.
I received a free copy of this book and my review is voluntary.

[Sal’s life · Rating 5 out of 5]

WIcked Ruin, Book 3 in the McCarthy Legacy series and what a book it is!

This time we’re following Bridget (sister to Erin from Wicked Altar) who if you are familiar with this series has a diagnosis of aplastic anaemia and has spent most of her life in and out of hospitals in chronic pain.

The McCarthy family helped Bridget access specialist medical help and she starts to win the battle with her condition and she starts to live life again, we see her embrace many things, including Declan and starts to hope for more with him despite referring to him as her best friend.

Declan is one of the McCarthy clan and fell for Bridget very early on, especially when she came to him looking for him to take her virginity and treat her as a woman and not pity her or mollycoddle her due to her condition, as she told him she did not want to die a virgin.

Although being an integral part of the Irish Mafia, and being a very dangerous man, he shows his kind, caring and compassionate side to Bridget. He sees things others miss, makes her feel loved and cared for in doing the little things in life, like knowing her favourite things and checking she’s eaten when she’s unwell..

Their friendship felt effortless.

Watching Declan struggle beneath the weight of his family obligations and the contract he agreed to, to keep Bridget safe was heartbreaking. He has been in love with Bridget for a long time; however, to guarantee her safety, he offered himself to marry someone of the families choosing, for the benefit of the family. This showed just how deeply he loved her.

Then comes the day Declan was dreading, he finds he has to marry a woman called Valentina, a cold, disinterested woman, and he’s not sure how he will be able to go through with it.

I did not want this book to end. I was lucky enough to read and listen to this book at the same time and I devoured it.

The audiobook performance was amazing; Wes Ross and Kai Kennicott were perfect. Their voices made me feel the love between Declan and Bridget, their longing and desire. I’m still thinking about it now, days later.

Wicked Ruin is an absolutely fantastic story, what comes next?

[Eva ˖๋ ࣭ ⭑ ㅤㅤㅤㅤ ‌ · Rating 4 out of 5]

3,8⭐️/5
I was really pleasantly surprised by this book !
I’m not exactly a fan of the friend to lover trope, but it was done so well here it was sooo cute.
But truthfully can we really say that it was friend to lovers when the only reason they were friend at all was because they wanted to be lovers but couldn’t ??

I LOVED the slow burn of it all, it wasn’t exactly a slow burn per se but the way it was made did make me think of one. The tension, the yearning the utter love ?? I’m obsessed

I really liked the MCs: the FMC was funny, sassy, smart, interesting, not a doormat, caring, incredibly strong and resourceful. It was such a pleasure reading about such a character.

The MMC was just as good ! Strong, smart, caring (extremely so), the utter devotion he was displaying towards her ???? Who wouldn’t dream of getting the same treatment ?

As a couple they were just making sense, it feels so good to read about a relationship where everyone’s being seen and fully understood without having to fight for it. I must also that even though there wasn’t a lot of those, the s.x scenes were really well written 🙂‍↕️

As for the parts I didn’t like, the story was kinda plot light (regarding the mafia and other aspect of the MCs life). There was a plot but we only skirted around it, the resolution of the whole story was extremely fast paced even though it was such a big thing throughout the whole book. We never got to know how they were able to figure out the things they figured out which was kinda weird. The mafia aspect of it was also really really light, we only got to see some glimpse of it instead of it being a complete and full part of the plot.

I also think that it’s kinda unbelievable that we still have to subscribe to a newsletter to be able to read the epilogue of a book we’ve just finished 💀. I understand that the book market is ruthless, and authors have to be able to secure readers one way or another. But wasn’t the glimpse of the next book enough to secure readers for the next release ??

Otherwise I do recommend this book, regardless of the points I last stated.

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Bridget’s parents betrayed the McCarthy family, she believed her sister marrying one of the sons was the only thing that kept her from being exiled along with them. Having spent most of her life in and out of hospitals, she has never been able to make her own choices about her life, but when she befriends one of the McCarthy cousins, she finally feels that she’s made a choice. As her love for him grows over the years, she knows she will never be seen as good enough for him, especially when she learns he has been promised to another woman. But when their one night of passion results in an unexpected pregnancy, she knows he will do whatever it takes to keep her safe.

Years ago, Declan made a promise to his cousin that he would marry a woman of his choosing, but he never realized how much that decision would cost him until he had Bridget in his arms. Bound by his duty to family, he knows he has to let her go and fulfill that obligation, but when their relationship could leave her caught in the crossfire, he finds himself torn between love and duty.

I received an early copy of this book from @valentine_pr_ and I finished it in one sitting! I loved watching the relationship between Bridget and Declan grow over the years, with their text messages showing both their growing love and their attempted restraint. Although Bridget has been welcomed by the McCarthy family, she never quite fits in, believing the only reason her presence is tolerated is because of her sister, and we can see how her loneliness eats away at her. Declan knows that he should stay away from her for both their sakes, but she’s the only person who knows who he is beneath the mask he puts on for everyone else. This book was as sweet as it was heartbreaking, and I loved how Bridget stood up for herself as much as I loved how Declan sacrificed for her. As always, secrets don’t stay buried in the McCarthy family, and when the truth comes out, everything changes.

[Bookshelfofasahm · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book three in the McCarthy Family Legacy is Declan and Bridget’s story and it was so good.. so good I couldn’t put it down and finished it in one sitting.. if that tells you anything at all.

So lets dig into this a little bit..

Declan and Bridget’s story starts out with an unexpected friendship that really focuses on supporting Bridget through her battle with all things related to her health. Then as you can imagine the longing for more from both sides slowly starts creeping up until they both want more and at the worst possible time. Declan has agreed to an arranged marriage for the sake of an alliance for his family. This book has a little bit of everything.. arranged marriage, accidental pregnancy, friends to lovers, forbidden romance, found family just to name a few.

Bridget knew something was off about the arranged marriage between Declan and Valentina.. she felt it but just couldn’t prove it. She saw that Valentina had zero interest in Declan among other things. The question is was her feelings for Dec blinding her or was she really onto something? On top of feeling deep down something wasn’t right it was getting harder to hide the fact that she clearly had feelings for him and him for her.

This book was everything I was hoping it would be. This book wasn’t quite as dark as the last two but it was pure perfection. I caught myself smiling and even laughing at the banter between Declan and Bridget.

Declan and hands down my favorite McCarthy man thus far. He falls first and is protective of his girl. I absolutely ate this book up and left ZERO crumbs.

I highly suggest reading the first two books in this series if you haven’t because it just makes this story so much more.

I received this as an arc and I’m so thankful!

If you haven’t had the pleasure to read a book by Jane Henry you are absolutely missing out because her books leave a lasting impression.

[Brenda · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC/ALC review

This is part 3 of the McCarthy Legacy series and follows Bridget and Declan McCarthy. After Bridget her family was exiled, Declan did everything in his power to keep Bridget under the protection of the McCarthy family. He even promised his cousin Seamus (head of the family) to take part in a arranged marriage for the family. When that day comes Bridget and Declan try to enjoy the time they have left. In the meanwhile Declan tries to find a way to be able to keep Bridget without breaking the arranged marriage deal. What happened after this nobody saw coming.
While this book is part of the series I read this without having read the previous books. I felt that this book gave enough information to enjoy Declan and Bridget their story without missing to much. Of course there will be some missed background information, but the story was very enjoyable and good to follow.
This being a mafia romance made that the found family vibes were big. I liked how Jane formed them between the people playing a part in this story.
Declan himself was very swoon worthy. I think he is perfect for Bridget.
The surprise plot twist at the end was very good and made that Declan and Bridget got their HEA.

Audio review – 5 stars
The audio book is Performed by Wen Ross and Kai Kennicott. I think these two did a stellar job. I especially enjoyed that the McCarthy's got an Irish accent, but that the narrator managed to make it not to thick that it wasn't understandable if you are not from around those parts. I enjoyed the back and forth between the narrators, it felt like they were in the same room talking to each other, so flawless was the production. There was a minor blip at the beginning of the book. There is a chapter that has a lot of messaging back and forth. The narration of these sounded a bit to robotic to me. Since it was only a short part I did not let it bother the overall review of this performance.

[Louise Car · Rating 5 out of 5]

For me, reading a Ms. Henry book is a privilege to be savored, and I have been eagerly waiting for Declan and Bridget’s story. I was not disappointed; in fact, they are now my favorite McCarthy couple! I loved the anticipation and creativity woven into this storyline.

As with the previous books, a McCarthy must marry to strengthen the family through an alliance, and this time it’s Declan. I liked how Ms.Henry carefully built Bridget and Declan’s story from the ground up, allowing their relationship to develop at a steady pace. With a large cast of secondary characters playing pivotal roles, there was plenty of family drama, secrets, and challenges to keep me turning the pages.

Declan’s badass reputation was well earned. He was a dangerous man to everyone except Bridget, and I loved watching their friendship deepen into something neither expected. His reaction to Bridget’s news won me over. I admired how protective he was and how he never stopped looking for a way to have a future with her. His love and respect for Bridget stood out.

Bridget’s journey was both heartbreaking and heartwarming. After everything she had endured with her health, all she wanted was the chance to live a normal life. I admired her courage and resilience. Her longstanding friendship with Declan was sweet, but she wanted more, even if one night with him was never supposed to have such lasting consequences. Despite everything finally seeming to fall into place, Bridget struggled to believe it was real, always waiting for the other shoe to drop.

Their story was emotional, raw, and filled with angst. The chemistry was immediate and powerful, with sexual tension woven through family drama, secrets, and plenty of obstacles. My only complaint? I wasn’t ready for the book to end. I wanted more of Declan and Bridget

[Flex Fler · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to Jane Henry and Valentine PR for the ARC. All opinions are my own in the following ARC Review.

Genres: Mafia Romance, Dark Romance
Tropes: BDSM, Age Gap, Terminal Illness Rep, Pining, Best Friends To Lovers, Arranged Marriage (Not Theirs), Alpha Hero, Virgin Heroine, Surprise Pregnancy, Forbidden Love, Secret Romance, Hurt/Comfort, Found Family
MC: Bridget (FMC), Declan (MMC)
Setting: Ballyhock, Ireland
Triggers: Living with terminal illness
Epilogue: Yes

Thoughts: Bridget and Declan were one of the sweetest couples. I loved that their relationship started with a close friendship, with them always being there for one another. They both understood their place in their world and knew not to ask for too much, despite each wanting something different. Their back-and-forth banter, whether through text or in person, was always entertaining and brought a smile to my face. They really were so sweet and genuine with each other.

They both made so many sacrifices, which made everything following their one night together so bittersweet. I cried when Bridget said, “You’ll always be my best friend, Declan. No one will ever take that from us.” I truly felt all of their emotions in that scene. And when we find out the lengths Declan went to for Bridget’s well-being, it was absolutely soul crushing. It made me so mad on his behalf because I’m pretty sure everyone in his family had an idea about his true feelings for Bridget.

I’m just glad everything worked out for them in the end, and that they got their HEA. Bridget was right when she said they were soulmates because it really felt like there was no one else for either of them but each other. They were undeniably the perfect person for one another.

[ALR · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you’re in the mood for an age gap, morally gray hero and a sweet and innocent female then look no further than this book. Declan and Bridget are surprising friends that were never meant to be anything more than passing acquaintances but their attraction is evident early on. Too bad he’s engaged to someone else ( no technical cheating).
Who would have thought that Declan was such a romantic? This serious and imposing alpha male likes to be in charge but the way he supports Bridget is surprisingly sweet, especially when you find out all the silent ways he’s been there for her throughout the years.
Bridget may be young, but life experiences have aged her so much more than her years. I loved that she is able to pivot around a challenge yet still keep her mischievous spirit alive and well. Her medical condition and the drama from her parents (book one in the series explains a lot) could fall a lesser person but she still manages to stay surprisingly cheerful.
This is book three in the McCarthy family legacy series. There is some soft BDSM content (2/5 in spiciness), but it focuses more on the friendship between Declan and Bridget, and the angst that develops from their forbidden relationship than in super hot bedroom scenes. There is also a bit of suspense and intrigue that relates to the reoccurring tensions afflicting the family ( as noted in the two previous books,), which has me hoping that book four will star my favorite male McCarthy (fingers crossed). Even though there are some overlapping developments in the books you can still easily enjoy this book on its own.
I received an advance review of this book from Valentine PR and I am voluntarily leaving this review.

[Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

A simply wonderful captivating read, Declan and Bridgets story is a heart moving read
I have to say that from the beginning to end this book Is a simply wonderful read, the I know that readers will find themselves like me totally enthralled waiting to discover what the final outcome will be for both Decan and Bridget.
Bridget has loved Declan for years and yet she is sure that he has not even recognised the young girl that she once was, now the woman she has become until the one night that he had kissed her and then things changed.
Bridget has discovered that she is pregnant and she has been has been hiding this as a closely guarded secret, unfortunately however with two families such as theirs there is always some one looking for the slightest thing they can use against each and her pregnancy has become a dangerous matter.
Declan is unaware that Bridget is carrying his baby but as things begin to escalate and it appears that the secret is now out, she knows that she has got to tell the father of the baby so that he can be prepared for whatever comes his way.
The tense moments behind this story will be whether they decide they are going to work together to keep the baby safe or will he determine remaining quiet about all knowledge of the baby is the best action for him to take.
Readers will have to determine this as you read the story and learn all about Bridget and Declan and the child that she is carrying and how she will do anything to keep it safe.
I thoroughly enjoyed the book and look forward to reading any future publications; keep up all the wonderful writing.

[Brownshugar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wicked Ruin by Jane Henry shows the power of sacrifice, quiet endurance, and fierce devotion. While it can be enjoyed as a standalone, experiencing the family dynamics from the previous books adds so much depth to the narrative. Be sure to check trigger warnings before reading.
​The story begins three years earlier during where Bridget and Declan first cross paths at a nightclub. That chance encounter turns into a lasting friendship as Bridget navigates a severe chronic illness. As a result of her parents' betrayal of the McCarthy family, she's felt like an outsider whose presence is only tolerated due to her sister's marriage in book 1. Bridget finds her only real sense of belonging in Declan. Declan, meanwhile, is bound to an arranged marriage for a political alliance. Unknown to Bridget, he agreed to this union as a direct trade to spare her from exile.
​The tension builds through subtle text messages and years of unexpressed longing, leading to a night that results in an accidental pregnancy. The shift in dynamics is executed brilliantly. Bridget proves to be an exceptionally strong character, standing her ground despite her physical vulnerabilities and loneliness. Declan however evolves from a guarded, dutiful hero into an intensely protective father and partner who will stop at nothing to guard his new family. The balance between sweet vulnerability and heartbreaking conflict makes this a standout release. Special thanks to VPR and Jane Henry for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Sarah Franklin · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW. WOW. WOW. I am absolutely BLOWN AWAY by this book!

As a lover of a good mafia romance, I went into Wicked Ruin with certain expectations of what a mafia romance should be… and Jane Henry just took those expectations, lit them on fire, and completely blew them up—in the BEST possible way.

From the very beginning, I was captivated and completely pulled into the story. And Declan?!

Yes, he’s a mafia man who will do whatever it takes to protect what’s his—and Bridgett is his. But Declan isn’t the loud, guns-blazing, kick-down-the-door kind of man. He’s quiet. Calculated. Patient. He plays the long game and lets his actions speak louder than his words.

And when he DOES speak? Every word has weight. Every word means something.

But what absolutely destroyed me was watching Declan prove his love for Bridgett. He falls first, but he does it in the most quietly romantic, intentional way. He doesn’t rush it. He builds something real. He lays the foundation for a love that feels solid, consuming, and completely theirs.

And THAT is what made this book so freaking special to me.

I loved this book so much because it was everything I wanted from a mafia romance while being nothing like what I expected. Jane Henry took the tropes I love and delivered them in a way that felt fresh, unexpected, and utterly addictive.

Way to go, Jane Henry! You are a genius, my dear. Seriously.

I think I need a 10-star rating because five stars simply aren’t enough for this one.

Wicked Ruin completely blew me away, and I am OBSESSED.

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loyalty vs Love. What do you do when you fall in love, but loyalty to the family comes first? Declan and Bridget are such a couple. Bridget first became interested in Declan when she was sick in the hospital. What started as a friendship turned to much more than either of them expected. Unbeknownst to Bridget,  years earlier, Declan sold his soul to the family to ensure her standing in the family and now it is time to repay his debt. He is to be married but not to Bridget. Bridget has loved Declan for 3 years and want to know what it is like to be with a man - to be with Declan but she knows he will never be hers. But one stolen night of passion is worth a lifetime of something that cannot be.  However,  things do not go as planned and what happens next could be catastrophic to both Declan and Bridget because she can never have Declan for her own, and Declan is soon to be in an arranged marriage.  When Declan accidentally finds out she is carrying his child, he will do anything to be with her. But when loyalty to "the family" is the most important thing, Declan may not have a chance to be a father.  

This is a fast paced story with lots of little twists...things you cannot anticipate. Everything aside, including the hot, and steamy moments, it actually a very beautiful love story. While it is the 3rd book in a series and I have not read the other 2 books, I really enjoyed Declan and Bridget's story. I also look forward to going back and reading the other books in the series.

[Hanan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Some books you know the minute you start reading that you are hooked.
Wicked Ruin was like that for me. From the start of the prologue I was all in.
And I stayed that way till the very end.
The story centers around Declan and Bridget.
He’s a McCarthy through and through. Loves his family unconditionally. Will lay down his life for any of them. And his loyalty to the McCarthy clan is unequivocal. Even if it’s at his expense and his life.
Bridget is taken in by the McCarthy’s after the betrayal her parents dealt them.
She has developed a bond with them all. The older generation and the younger generation as well.
But with Declan there has always been more. And Declan has always been her protector and more.
Past promises and family loyalty makes a future for them impossible.
I really loved Dec and Bridget’s story. I adored them both and was so invested in them.
She’s kind and sweet and lights up a room when she walks in.
He’s love and commitment to those that are important to him makes him that just more endearing.
Their tough and rocky road to their HEA wasn’t easy. Filled with obstacles and struggles.
But they never truly lost faith or hope in their love. Even in the most difficult of times.
And believe me they had plenty.
I loved their story and loved the bond of the McCarthy family.
They rally around each other when it truly matters and also around those they choose as their chosen family.
**4.5 stars**