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Mafia Wars #6

Unchosen Ruler: The O'Malley Family

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He’s the future unchosen ruler of the O’Malleys.

Locked away for too many years.
Underestimated and pissed off.
Protective beyond all rationale.
Possessive unlike any man I’ve ever known.
I should run. Except Liam O'Malley isn't a choice. He's the air I breathe.
Still, I wonder if I can really be queen of the O’Malleys—especially when I discover the truth about who I am.
Anyone else in our shoes would make a different choice, but nothing with Liam is predictable.
In our world, anything but strength gets you killed.
It’s what makes him the perfect unchosen ruler.

”Unchosen Ruler” is the sixth jaw-dropping installment of the “Mafia Wars” series. It begins the O’Malley crime family reign and is a forbidden Dark Mafia romance, interconnecting stand-alone, and guaranteed to have an HEA.

436 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 1, 2021

1009 people are currently reading
1671 people want to read

About the author

Maggie Cole

64 books2,301 followers
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Maggie Cole is committed to bringing her readers alphalicious book boyfriends and fiercely strong heroines.

She’s been called the literary master of steamy romance. Her books are full of raw emotion, suspense, and will always keep you wanting more. She is a masterful storyteller of contemporary romance and loves writing about broken people who rise above the ashes. Her books can often be found hanging out in the top 100, even years after publication.

Maggie lives in Florida with her son. She loves tennis, yoga, paddleboarding, boating, other water activities, and everything naughty.

Her current series were written in the order below:
All In (Stand alones with entwined characters)
It's Complicated (Stand alones with entwined characters)
Together We Stand (Brooks Family Saga - read in order)
Behind Closed Doors (Read in order)
Mafia Wars
Mafia Wars New York
Club Indulgence Duet
Mafia Wars Ireland
Wilted Kingdom Duet
The Underworld
The Cartwright Family (Holiday Romance)

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5 stars
2,162 (63%)
4 stars
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274 (8%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 283 reviews
Profile Image for Jenn (The Book Refuge).
2,669 reviews4,499 followers
September 2, 2021
*Thank you to the author for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.*

I did not know what to expect from Unchosen Ruler for a few reasons. Savage Tracker was my favorite book I had read so far and I didn't know how anything could compare to the emotions I felt from Selena and Obrecht. But I was very excited to see what Liam had to offer and Hailee seemed like such an intriguing pairing for him.

Liam is coming off of a stint in prison and he has been out of the family business to an extent being locked away. He is eager to be back in the fold but he is a bit unprepared for how quickly he needs to do it, given the health of his father. There isn't much time to get him up to speed and it just made my heart hurt that he had lost so much time.

What he really doesn't have time for is a seemingly innocent school teacher that he can't help but be drawn towards. Their chemistry was instant and I loved watching them fall head over heels. Things get real spicy and I cannot WAIT for people to see what Hailee has been hiding. She was a freaking delight.

However, Hailee has more going on in her past than we could have guessed and the way it could effect Liam and his tenuous control of the O'Malley clan is really what this book is about.

This was a wonderful kick off to the O'Malley half of the Mafia wars. We still see all of our Ivanov favorites and get too see how things are coming along and we start to set up the ongoing conflict that will see us through the rest of the series.

If you haven't read any of the series yet, I do recommend you start at the beginning, but if you were to jump in somewhere, this isn't the worst place to do it, since Liam himself has been out of the loop, and needs to be informed about what is happening.

This book is so thrilling and spicy and fun, I highly recommend it. I can't wait to get a physical copy in my hands.

5 Stars from me.
Profile Image for QuinnReads.
3,719 reviews204 followers
September 1, 2021
There's No Silencing of This Little Lamb

Mafia Wars Bk 06 Maggie Cole Unchosen Ruler Live

The moment our eyes met, it was like an earthquake ripping through my core. No matter how much I tried to stay away or told him we couldn't be together, I always found myself running toward him. Once our worlds collided, there was no way to escape each other. -- Hailee O'Hare


I have been waiting to see what Hailee got herself into since we met her in book one. She's the quiet one. The one who would prefer to spend her nights in with her girlfriends and work on art projects for her kindergarten class or refurbishing furniture. I'm glad she didn't end up with an Ivanov but what she gets with Liam O'Malley? Oh, you have to see this! 💜

She's as spicy as I'd hoped she'd be! Liam has plenty of taming to attempt with this wildcat! I love it! 🐆🔥🔥🐑🔥🔥🐆 Liam may call her his little lamb but she's most definitely a fierce tigress. 😍

As for Liam, we get to see him grow into the role he's meant to take over. There are bumps but there are also some big wins.

The majority of this book overlaps the prior five books. You might be able to get away with treating this as a standalone for most of the book but there are details and events that are skimmed over because they were covered in a prior book. I would recommend reading the series in order.

I'm sad to see the focus come off of Hailee and Liam but I can't wait to see what the next book brings! Squee!!! 👏👏👏 I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.

**Don't worry, Boris. You're still my favorite! 💋 Just don't tell Obrecht**

Mafia Wars Bk 06 Unchosen Ruler Maggie Cole CR Kitchen Floor
Profile Image for Lover of Romance.
3,713 reviews1,125 followers
May 13, 2022
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance

This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review.

Every moment of our kiss shows me everything I’ve been missing. Liam’s a tidal wave, and I’m in the middle of the current, unable to escape the power of his hold over me.



First Impressions
Unchosen Ruler is the sixth installment in the Mafia Wars series and YES I know I am binging this series and I seriously need to hold or a bit because I am becoming addicted but this is the last book because I need a breather from all this delicious mafia goodness. I just couldn’t resist picking up Liam’s book to be honest. I just had to have it, I have been wanting his book since book 2 and he has such an aura of mystery that surrounds him that is intriguing to the reader and will only make you want to know him more, I really did love seeing another side to him and Maggie Cole did a detailed job in portraying his character in such a way that worked so well.l with how he has been built up throughout the series so far. We also get to see his queen and their romance was sexy and deep and everything I could have wanted and more! If you are a fan of this series, then Liam’s book will definitely satisfy your heart’s desire.

When I’m with Liam, I feel alive. I’m taken care of and his priority. And I’ve never been with any man who’s so fiercely loyal or kindhearted.


Summary
Liam O Malley has been locked away in prison for fifteen years since he made a mistake and has paid for his crime in one of the worst prisons in the country. Now he is free, his father is dying and he will have to take the steps to take the throne of the O’Malley clan. And to just complicate matters, he falls head over heels in love with a sexy sweet kitten of a Schoolteacher who fires up his blood and makes him believe in good again. But as Liam starts to take over his father’s rule, and cement the details that will further the future of the O’Malley clan, there are hidden secrets about Hailee and her past especially surrounding her heritage which has been kept from her for years. But now it will put them all at risk. Hailee has been used to staying hidden as she grew up in an abusive atmosphere and now that they are safe, she has embraced the man that she loves but now they have enemies that want her and her sister returned to them. But despite the struggles, Hailee is determined to stay by Liam’s side and rise from the ashes to be his queen…

He’s the future king of the O’Malleys. And I’m already so far in, I don’t question if it will happen or not. I couldn’t leave Liam if I tried. That makes me someone I never thought I’d be. And I wonder if I’m really capable of being an O’Malley queen


What I Loved
Unchosen Ruler was such a story that tied me up in knots and in all of the best of ways. I was so fascinated by the connection that Hailee and Liam,. From their first meeting, there has been this strong connection and these sweet early moments of their courtship were so endearing. I was really curious by the hints that we see in the previous books on how they past some hurdles and Hailee really surprised me in this book wow she is a sex kitten, I honestly never expected it. I guess its the innocent ones that surprise you when you least expect it. The relationship that builds between Liam and Hailee was so fascinating. Hailee while she is reserved about Liam’s past, is also willing to overlook it because she knows what they have is solid and real and that Liam is a good man despite his position and even knowing that he will have to do some uncomfortable things to protect his family and territory. Then we have Liam who is such a strong hero and I was cheering him on all the way. He deserved someone good like Hailee, who was willing to stand by his side and who is his perfect match in every way. We get some fun family shenanigans and Liams parental (they were a hoot and SO Irish haha). We also see more happening to the overreaching plot of the series which left the book with a bit of a cliffhanger that makes me itchy to read the next book (but I won’t because I need to space myself haha ) but I do think Maggie Cole is brilliant is ending with these type of cliffhangers, you can easily binge the series.

It’s you and me forever. No one else. The sooner you come to terms with who you are and what being with me means, the easier it’ll be for both of us.


What I Struggled With
NOTHING!!! It was just about perfect for me in every way!

Overall View
I found Unchosen Ruler to be an endearing story of love, healing, and growth. Of learning your heritage and rising above the bad and embracing the best parts of yourself and paving aq way to a glorious future! This story kept me on my toes and I am eager to see what the author delivers next!

At the end of the day, the only person who needs to believe you’re capable is in here. Everyone else can fuck themselves. The moment you stop worrying about what others think is when you’ll be ready to lead.


Trigger Warnings


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Profile Image for Kelli  Miller  a_brunette_bookworm.
317 reviews14 followers
August 19, 2021
I say this a lot when I read one of Maggie Cole’s books but they just keep getting better and better. Her writing throughout this series just pulls you in and keeps you hooked the whole book and just when you say okay one more chapter next thing you know you are done with the book and realize it’s 3 am and you need to get some sleep!

Oh where do I start with Liam and Hailee.....there is something different with them as a couple. I know you have seen glimpses of them throughout the first 5 books but you haven’t seen anything yet. When they say you find your person when you least expect it, Liam and Hailee wrote the book on this saying! Hailee seems like she is going to be this quiet, meek school teacher but during this book you see her in a different light. She becomes the person I believe has always been inside of her. She just needed the right person beside her to bring that out. Liam is that person, after spending years behind bars he just wants to get out and start his life because he has missed so much. You see different sides to him during this book. He is loving, romantic, a little crazy and definitely The Unchosen Ruler.

This book is different than the Ivanov books which I think Maggie was going for when she wrote the 2 different families. The O’Malley’s are a true crime family so you will see some of the things they have to go through to be the top dog and defend what is theirs.

Once you read the prologue in this book it will pull you in and make you wonder where Maggie is going to take you with this story. This book has heartbreak, romance, funny moments, steamy moments and some moments when you catch your eyes welling with tears. I cannot wait for the next in this series. And just a quick note, yes these books are technically considered standalone because the couples are different in each book but the plot intertwines in each book. So I recommend you reading them in order otherwise you might miss some of the story!
Profile Image for Lindsay Elmore.
535 reviews5 followers
August 14, 2021
Wow! Where to begin?!? Book Six, Unchosen Ruler, of the Mafia Wars series is actually book one of the O'Malley family. Liam was born to be the next ruler of the O'Malley clan. After spending time in jail for murder, he is now out and learning the ways of the world he lives in. After learning his father is sick, he is being groomed to lead the O'Malley's. While reconnecting with the Ivanov's he quickly sees he needs to lead by example and change from how things use to be.

Enter Hailee! The quiet school teacher who doesn't need or want a bad boy in her life. But after getting to know this man and the connection they share "staying a good girl is no longer an option."

I absolutely loved this story and seeing the steamy connection between Liam and Hailee while navigating the threats on the families. This story is about finding a voice even if you already thought you had one. Finding love in the places you didn't think existed. And learning to lead in an ever changing world.
34 reviews
September 1, 2021
They say the quiet ones are the worst, well stand up Hailee O'Hare and take a bow because this goodie-two-shoes kindergarten teacher definitely gets a gold star for making this comment true! Hailee is horny and she is matched perfectly with Liam. Straight out of the penitentiary and next in line to rule the O'Malley clan he has a seriously sexy alpha bad boy vibe going on that she can't resist. She's not all she seems and the naive outer shell hides the fiery nature of a true blood mafia princess. Liam and Hailee don't just work well together as characters, they explode all over the page with their steamy scenes! Get your fans at the ready and buckets of ice to douse those flames! You'll need them! Enjoy!
41 reviews
June 13, 2021
When you go from crying to laughing to literally gasping for air, you know you have hit the jackpot!

If you haven't already, I highly recommend reading the Ivanov Family stories before Unchosen Ruler as the stories are interconnected and provide so much background to the main characters!

Liam and Hailee fight so hard to achieve acceptance of their love from both sides and show that love has no bounds, when you want something you need to go for it- there may even be rewards for it at the end ;)

You never know what Maggie will come up with next but I think Maggie has found her calling in hot ass Mafia Men and Boss Ladies!
Profile Image for Booze Boobs Books.
667 reviews
August 31, 2021
Unchosen Ruler is the story of Liam O'Malley, soon to be head of the O'Malley family and his journey of accepting his new role and unexpectedly finding love. Hailee is a teacher and known by her group of friends as the shy and quiet one. Little do they know what she is really like behind closed doors. Their love is one that was never meant to be, but through every obstacle they face their bond grows stronger. A real thrill ride that will have you laughing, crying and panting from the heat these two characters have for each other. What an amazing story! Grab your water ladies - it's about to get hot in here!!
Profile Image for MJ's Book Blog and Reviews.
3,048 reviews65 followers
August 30, 2021
Review by: Jennifer
(5 stars)

How is this series still getting better and better? I loved the last one and the next story comes out and blows the previous one out of the water. I can say that when you dive into one of these books (do it in order) that you are diving into a story that will suck you in until the last word and then you are sitting there wishing you had the next book so that you can continue the wild ride. Drama, danger, violence, smoking' hot naughty bits, and an over the top alpha that makes you want one of your own. Liam and Hailee's story was freaking amazing! I can't wait for the next in the series, this gets more than 5 stars!!
111 reviews15 followers
August 24, 2021
I absolutely loved reading about Liam and Hailee(Little Lamb). Hailee is a very independent woman who doesn’t take no crap from anyone. She’s a teacher and loves her job. Liam just got out of prison and is set to take over the O’Malley clan from his dying father-who is definitely a spitfire. When Liam and Hailee meet, boy do sparks fly. Their relationship isn’t an easy one though. As they fall for each other and their connection gets stronger, something unexpected happens. Hailee is part of another crime family, but whose-I definitely didn’t see that coming, but wait to you see who’s family. He is about to get out of jail. Things aren’t easy after that as each event unravels and more secrets come out. This book was a page turner and had me on the edge of my seat the whole way thru. Is it possible Liam and Hailee can be together, or is their relationship doomed? Wait til you find out! Also, when the O’Malley’s and Ivanov’s team up, there is definitely gonna be a showdown. Can they take down Hailee’s crime family and keep her, her sisters and mother safe?
Profile Image for Ashley Crimmins.
354 reviews3 followers
September 2, 2021
Bring on the Irish! This book is worth every single one of my 5 stars! I thought the Russians were steamy but holy hell, the Irish are just as steamy. I’ve been dying to read Hailee and Liam’s story since the beginning of the Mafia Wars and they did not disappoint! So many laughs, gasps, shouting at them, and just falling in love with them throughout this book. We got bits and pieces of quiet Hailee while her friends were all falling for the Russians, and then contemplative Liam steps into the picture and we learn what’s going on in their heads. It is something you do not want miss! I love Maggie Coles interconnected series. It always makes me rethink previous books!
Profile Image for Claudia |✨Cushin Violeta's Bookish Realm✨.
1,617 reviews58 followers
December 30, 2021
Thrilling ride ahead with unpredictable twists😍

This series is so addictive and definitely just something else with the way out of the blues secrets are revealed that you'd never seen coming.
I was so excited for Liam and Hailee's book.

Liam who's just gotten out of prison after fifteen years and not only has to get accustomed to living life out of prison but also now is soon going to the leader of the O'Malley. I felt for that man when he was just getting used to freedom, now has the huge responsibility of learning how to be leader and handle the business all at the same time.

Then there's hailee. The sweet and innocent looking kindergarten teacher who's always been with good boys. After having the Rough childhood she had, she likes to be in control and hence doesn't believe in taking risks where her love life is concerned.

But Liam completely shatters her rule and her attraction to him takes her on a wild ride and discovering her wild side which she would never have dared to take.

Once again the Ivanovs and O'Malleys are helping each other in taking out the enemies. But never would Liam have seen coming when the enemy seems to be amongst them. Wow, that twister was really good as I was oh so shocked. I was like.. Whattt.. What... Yepp

This one was another edge of the seat suspense and romance and hot steaminess filled twisted ride. Loved this one. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Profile Image for BooksBooksandmoreBooks69.
1,979 reviews39 followers
September 2, 2021
This book although still in the Mafia wars series, branches off a little. We spend more time with the O’Malley clan rather than the Ivanov’s.

Liam after spending many years in prison is now a free man.
But really he’s going from one prison to another! The family business…..
His father runs the O’Malley family and Liam has been groomed into taking his place when he dies. Only he doesn’t expect it to be so soon!!

Hailee is friends of the Russians we met in previous books (you need to read them, they are good)
A schoolteacher. She teaches at an underprivileged school, she loves her job and the kids she teaches, she just wishes she could do more!

Meeting Liam in a previous book, she’s fascinated with him, and he’s very taken with her.
Arranging a date, both Liam and Hailee are anxious to see where this will take them.
Until Hailee finds out who he really is….

Together they set this book on fire!!
There are so many secrets that these two hold, it’s a wonder they actually get started.
There is a moment in the book that I did not see coming….
You don’t need to read the previous books, but it will explain a few things in Unchosen Ruler.
I loved this book. Liam is such a hard man, but with Hailee he can be himself, and I think he needs that. Becoming the head of an organisation is a stressful job, and he doesn’t really get time to switch off. But with Hailee by his side he gets that moment of peace.
Hailee was such a surprise, her character in the previous books was a quiet and mousey woman. But in this book, you get to see the real her, the one Liam brings out.

So can they really become the next family to lead the O’Malleys?
Or will Hailee’s past come between them?

I do have one tiny issue (and it’s a personal one) in all the previous books the heroine gets captured, and in this one that she’s to really happen!
So when it didn’t happen I was a little disappointed 😝

But I’m still going to recommend this book and the whole series.

Now we wait for Nolan to tell his story (a d it’s going to be a good one)
1,068 reviews
August 19, 2021
Well that was unexpected!!

I feel like in this series MC has been gradually upping the scorch factor and its has definitely hit a high point so far with this book (caveat: the blurbs for the remaining books in the series look like the scorch factor will only get hotter!!!)

Whilst expected in the sense of the direction of the series, the fact it was HAILEE that delivered the heat was a surprise.

I love how she came out of herself in this book, and the fact it was Liam that was there to catch her was awesome. Though I did feel like the innocence we got from Hailee throughout all the other books was missing entirely in this book, you wouldn’t recognise her if you started here and read backwards in the series.

A true bad boy whose badass reign was prematurely brought to a halt by a his single act of revenge, Liam has grown up the hardest way whilst in prison. Gaining his freedom only to be unexpectedly handed the keys to the kingdom (literally..) Liam finds himself drowning.

I think the best part of this book was the way Liam and Hailee supported each other and just “got” each other throughout the book. Liam encouraged and supported Hailees darker side, Hailee was Liams safe port in the storm that was his life.

I adored the story, though definitely feel you need to read the earlier books in the series otherwise you may feel it jumps around a lot, if you have read the earlier books it’s yet again a tour back through the excitement of the previous storylines from another perspective which again fleshes out the entirety of the series of books really well.

I love that about these books, though as this is almost a series starter book (new family) it does cram a lot into the pages and some parts of the story feel a little rushed (Liams mum??)

I am eagerly looking forwards to the next book, mainly because from this book I really really really dislike Gemma….so I’m thoroughly intrigued as to how MC will bring me round (she totally will, I didn’t like Skylar either originally and loved her book ;) )

Another amazing read in this series and a fab start to the O’Malleys reign.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Christina.
506 reviews4 followers
August 21, 2021
I have been waiting MONTHS for this book. Since Liam sat with the girls at the pub re-opening in Boris's book, Broken Fighter, I have wanted to see how Liam and Hailee would progress.

Hailee is a kindergarten teacher,always coming across as shy, reserved...innocent. She wants to keep the peace within her life after a rough childhood. She lives a safe, albeit boring life but is content. At least that is what she tells herself.

Liam is imprisoned for 15 years, and after his release he is immediately thrown into the role of learning leader. He doubts himself and his abilities based on how he perceives others impressions. The looming threat of his fathers failing health plays into his thoughts and plans and he knows he will be taking over sooner than he feels he is ready for.

Liam helps coax Hailee out of her safe world, she finally feels like shes living, and in return she helps Liam see his strength and gives him a sense of peace among all the turmoil.

When Hailees past comes back to haunt them, they learn more about each other and more lies surface. These two are so good together but there is so much drama and distrust surrounding their families.

This was so much more than I was expecting,like with all the books in the series so far. I look forward to the next installment based on the breadcrumbs and secondary plot intertwined. You will not be disappointed reading this!!!
Profile Image for peggylovesbooks.
178 reviews25 followers
August 25, 2021
We saw bits and pieces of Liam and Hailee through out the Ivanov books now we get the intense, steamy as hell book that we all knew it was going to be.

Hailee is a teacher who is looking for the right man, she meets Liam and is like yes! While that is awesome we get the some look into her past as a child, she finds out who her dad really is and it is not good.

Liam the man who is going to take over the O'Malley's and he has to prove himself the the clan. Since he was in prison people are doubting him and do not think he can lead the family. He is coming to terms with being out of prison and is making the effort to make Hailee his.

The twist and turns of this book will make you fall in love with Liam. Oh man the intensity of the steam and love between these two is to die for. The only thing I disliked in this story was how everyone was acting towards Liam, really made me want to punch everyone who doubted Liam. But that is why Maggie Cole writes the best books.. its all about the feelings you get with the characters.
902 reviews4 followers
September 1, 2021
I am totally speechless. I believe this is my favorite one. Absolutely love love love Liam. Liam and Hailee are the perfect power couple a true King and Queen. This book is truly a roller coaster of emotions. Liam takes protective male full of hotness to a new level. Hailee is the last of the friend circle to get attached (I wish they had a bigger role). Absolutely love this series. Can’t wait for the next book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Teresa Juckett (Love Dark Reads) .
2,510 reviews44 followers
September 2, 2021
Oh man oh man was this book so good I couldn't stop reading it. I literally took it everywhere I went to read it. This is by a new author for me and now she has a new fan as I can't get enough of these O'Malleys and the clan. Damn why haven't I read these book's before I'm kicking myself. If you like those dark delicious stories involving the mob, the Irish, strong sexy men, strong women and chaos you need to read this story this is Bk6 and can be read as a standalone, trust me your going to want to read the others in this series, I know I am.
Profile Image for &#x1f989;Maggie Whitworth.
3,254 reviews113 followers
October 27, 2021
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋

Liams book is so good, to finally see him take over from Darragh and become the leader of the O’Malley’s , find his love and fight for her , wonderful-reading.
Profile Image for Marina Mariles.
103 reviews3 followers
August 21, 2021
Liam is fresh out of prison but that doesn't mean his imprisonment is over. Hailee has always seemed liked the innocent one, but no one knows what lies beneath. When these two meet its like a volcanic eruption of emotions. Liam is drawn to her like a bee to a flowers sweet nectar. Hailee has always dated the safe option but she wants Liam's, despite the bad boy vibe he gives off. Liam knows he should stay away from Hailee after all he will soon be the head of the O'Malley clan. Everyone is waiting for him to fail but the way she looks at him gives him hope. Hailee should stay away but she knows that there is more to him then the bad boy everyone see. Hailee is tired of playing it safe. Liam is a man who gets what he wants. The only problem is will their families break them apart. Unchosen Ruler flows off the pages. Liam and Hailee are a modern day Romeo and Juliet. You feel their love seeping off the pages. The chemistry they have is off the charts crazy.
Profile Image for Jessica M.
46 reviews9 followers
August 29, 2021
Friendship, love, and loyalty- this not only perfectly sums up Liam and Hailee but the entire underlying premise of this whole series.

Once Liam set his sight on Hailee, that was it, there was no turning back… nothing would break them… not even devastating secrets.

The title says it all, Liam is indeed the unchosen future leader of the O’Malley clan, but it is Hailee who is the Queen. I loved watching her come into her own throughout their story.

These two reiterate that love overcomes all else.
Profile Image for Amanda.
89 reviews1 follower
August 22, 2021
Now that was just perfection!! This book had it all. Love,laughter,tradegy,and intensity.
Liam is going to be the leader of the OMalley clan.
Hailee is your everyday sweet innocent teacher or is she? When this sweet innocent woman falls for an OMalley will she be Liams queen or will the secrets of her life tear them apart?
Stop what ur reading now and grab this book you wont be disappointed.
Profile Image for Intel Chicky Reads Romance (Kara Merideth).
2,255 reviews1,525 followers
September 1, 2021
Fantastic ride!

Unchosen Ruler is finally here! This is the one I was waiting for and MAN, it was everything I was hoping it would be and more! Great storyline with tons of twists and turns. So much, sometimes it felt like a rollercoaster ride of emotions. Liam O’Malley was just released from prison. His father, who is the head of the Irish mob in Chicago is dying and he feels ill prepared to take control after being in prison so long. The last thing he expects or necessarily needs, is to meet Kindergarten teacher, Hailee, and to fall in love. Threats are coming from every which way and it seems Hailee may have some secrets to uncover of her own. Unchosen Ruler is book 6 in the Mafia Wars series by Maggie Cole. I can be read as a standalone, but best read in order with the rest of the series.

As always, Maggie Cole has phenomenal character development. You really feel for the characters as well as their friends and become invested in their stories. Hailee has always been my favorite of the group of friends in this series, because how reserved she is compared to them. She’s way more cautious around bad boys because of the way she was raised and extremely hesitant to be with Liam because of who he is. As for Liam, once he meets Hailee, she’s it for him. He’s completely all in. He’s protective, possessive, and uber controlling when it comes to her safety - as well as in the bedroom. The smexy times between the two of them were super hot and nearly set my kindle on fire, lol. I loved this book and I really enjoyed how Hailee grows as a character during the course of the book - emotionally, mentally, and sexually. It was nice to see her come into her own, but also grow into the woman that Liam needs her to be. Can’t wait for the next one!

Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Trope: Instalust
Angst: 😰😰😰😰
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Triggers: none
Profile Image for Joy  Avery.
1,309 reviews159 followers
September 2, 2021
4.5 ⭐'s
     Unchosen Ruler was an incredible ride. Although this is the sixth book in the Mafia Wars series, it is the first book in the O'Malley series of books. The first five books dealt with the Ivanov family. It is highly recommended to read those first so you get the full, enjoyable experience. They are considered interconnecting standalones because each book features a different couple but other characters will show back up and you won't get the best experience. 
     This book tells the story of Liam O'Malley and Hailee O'Hare. Liam has been in prison for committing a murder out of revenge. He finds out his father is sick and when he is let out of prison, he knows he needs to be prepared to take over as the head of the family. He knows the world is an ever-changing place and he needs to be able to roll with it. Hailee is considered a quiet and sweet kindergarten teacher. But the saying, "always watch out for the quiet ones" definitely holds true for her. She has a fiery spirit and possesses all the qualities one needs to stand by Liam's side and help him lead.
     This book kept me captivated and hanging on to every word while flipping through the pages as fast as I could. Keeping my interest always goes into my reviews and this one definitely came through. My emotions stayed on a constant rollercoaster which I look for as well. This author has crafted a truly interesting world with intriguing characters. Not to mention the heat that flew off the pages. I really enjoyed this story and really look forward to the next books.
Profile Image for ReadingWonderland.
173 reviews4 followers
July 13, 2022
Sigh, there’s not much I can say that I haven’t already said about the other books in the series. There is TOO MUCH going on at ALL times.

While it demonstrates the skill of the author to intertwine and simultaneously tell many stories at once, it gets overwhelming.

I mean, you can’t even focus on the main couple because there always some problem with an other character. Even though they have their own damn books, you still have to read about their drama.

I can’t keep up with the 50-11 side characters, their cousins cousin of their second cousin fifth removed from the second uncle on the moms side. Like, dang....who cares?

Then on top of everything else, the book is drawn the hell out. Can we get to the point already? Better yet, can we focus on the main characters and not treat them like side characters as well?

In every book in this series, everyone has equal “screen time”. I read as much about Nolan as I did about Liam. Usually an author would feature past characters in a current book to keep the readers happy about seeing their favorite characters.

However, I got tired of reading about all of them. It was like “damn, can the Liam and his stupid girl get some reading time”? They are making appearances in their OWN book.

I won’t keep reading the series. It’s one LONG ass never ending story. The sex scenes improved but it was still lacking.....everything.
Profile Image for nikki.
770 reviews703 followers
August 31, 2021
3.5⭐/5 (rounded to 4⭐)

I honestly did enjoy reading this book.However,the only thing that I didn't like was that the pacing was too fast for my liking.The MCs were confessing their love for each other early on in the initial chapters,which seemed a little absurd to me ngl.I also felt that their relationship was borderline toxic,especially for people that were in their late 30s/early 40s.
Reading a romance between older characters was a first for me,since I'm usually used to reading stories about characters in their early to late twenties.
Nonetheless,the age factor wasn't a turn off for me and I did enjoy the intense smut in this one.That was probably the best part of this book apart from the sexy as sin male MC as well as side characters.
Overall,I'd say that it was a good one time read.I would def recommend this book to all those that enjoy a fast paced yet passionate romance,even if I myself,am not a huge fan of this story.
Profile Image for Liz Maxwell .
83 reviews3 followers
August 23, 2021
This book is the first installment of the O’Malley family series. We get to know Hailee O’Hare and Liam O’Malley better. This book is entertaining and riveting. The unexpected twists and turns had me turning the pages because I wanted to know what was going to happen. Not to say that I wasn’t turning the pages from the very beginning!! The way Liam and Hailee’s relationship grows throughout this book is the type of story girls dream about. The way he protects her from the very beginning makes me want an Irish piece of man candy of my own. You don’t want to miss out on this steamy book!!! 💛💛
Profile Image for One Loves Reading .
1,171 reviews30 followers
September 7, 2021
I have been team Liam since Broken Fighter. When Nora was defending him to Hailee & the girls. Like she said she went "Irish girl on them" my heart broke again re-reading that scene because I know he liked her straight away

This title is true to the story. Liam was born into this world but he has to prove he is the Ruler. Yes when he 25 he was reckless and now 40 years old he is mature. We also see how he meet Finn who taught him how to read people.

Liam my heart does go to him. He learning to live again outside prison. Especially now he can't sleep because its too dark. He is use to some light in the darkness because of prison life. He learn about emojis and I think will be using this emoji alot 🖕 to his cousins & Killian🤣

Hailee is not the good girl we think she is. She a naughty girl just like her best Kora. She tells Liam about the adult fun activities...yes Liam there is alot more night play you can...We learn about Hailee's family and past. We understand why she was hesitate around Liam. Thankfully she took a chance on him🥰

Liam found his home in Hailee🥲
He calls her his little lamb and he presents that nickname to her in a beautiful way.

Nora ! made me cry soo bad when she gave him a gift from their late grandmother
😭 Liam & Nora are super close and I was so happy that we got to see a few moments of them together. Liam trust her with the big moments in his life & she will support him not matter what. I hope we got more Nora & Boris in this series. Nora is a O'Malley and this is a O'Malley series

We meet Hailee sister and my heart BREAKS for one sister that I will not spoil. She is a surpise character for me because I didn't like her at first and then I wanted to hug. She also caught the eye of a O'Malley man...that no more spoilers
What out for that sister!

NOW things are not all beds of roses. Maggie did say there a surprise that we the reader will never see coming. OH BOY she a women of a her word. I never saw this coming and she has done a fantastic job on not giving us no hints through out the whole series. No hints at all , everyone get ready....

VERY steamy moments & inspiration ideas for a treat box. Their is suspense and action in this book too. I was at the edge of my seat especially from Liam's prison experience & that GIANT surpise that I did not see coming !!

☆MUST READ & FAV & LISTEN ☆

🎙Aaron Shedlock & Victoria Mei did a FANTASTIC on their performance. This book is full steamy scenes and importantly suspense and these two performed PERFECTLY. Listening to all them tense suspense moments especially about Nora's *no spolier* family I was on the edge of my seat. I feel Nora heart breaking all over again for her sisters and trying to forgive her mam. Liam flash backs of prison and that moment with his dad when he said I can die a happy man 😪 and I knew what was going to happen next in that chapter. The Narrator Aaron did a brilliant job of making Liam strong & vulnerable in that moment. oh when the older generation talked both narrators did a great job on their Irish accent best I heard so far with my audiobook adventures 😊
5,002 reviews27 followers
August 24, 2021
Liam has been in prison for fifteen years for taking out his uncle’s killer, he might not have survived without Finn. He is heir apparent to lead the O’Malley crime family. He meets Hailee at his cousin, Nora’s pub reopening. He is attracted to her and does not want to mess up anything so he does not tell he just got out of prison.

Hailee is friends with Anna, Kora and Skyler, who are all involved with an Ivanov, she seems to be the sweet and naïve one of the group, a goody two shoes if you will. She is a kindergarten teacher in a bad section of town. Hailee finds Liam charming but she knows he is bad boy, she has stayed away from them her whole life, even if she finds them attractive. He makes her want to walk on the wild side, she cannot stay away from him.

The heat between the two is off the scale, not sure how Maggie can keep making the series hotter with each book. There are things about Hailee that will surprise you as it surprises Liam.

While this is a standalone in the sense that it is about Liam and Hailee it would be best to start with Ruthless Stranger as there are things that happen in timeline of the story are more in-depth.

All of the Mafia Wars books are action packed, have emotional moments, erotic and some dark undertones. I read the Ivanov books back to back, enjoyed them immensely and love how each of the stories are interwoven from the main characters point of view of events. I look forward to the next installment, Perfect Sinner, it is going to be hard to wait.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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