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Delphine
It’s true what they say: you never forget your first love.
When Salvatore Mancino returns, I’m left reeling.
I’m swimming in memories of his passionate kiss.
And memories of him breaking my heart.
Over a decade later, the violent mafia boss intends on making me his.
But dark and wicked forces seek to hurt me.
And in the process, destroy him.

Salvatore
Delphine Adams is as off-limits as they come.
It’s only ever made me want her more.
She thinks she’s stopped being mine.
What she doesn’t realize is, she always has been.
And she always will be.
Now there’s a price on her head by a rival crime family.
It’s up to me to protect her with everything I have before it’s too late.

Wicked Roses is book 1 in the Gangsters & Roses dark mafia romance series. It is a forbidden romance that is not suitable for readers under the age of 18 due to graphic violent and sexual content. This story contains themes that some readers may find upsetting. PLEASE read the content warning before proceeding with the story for any possible triggers.

320 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 3, 2022

416 people are currently reading
287 people want to read

About the author

Sienne Vega

43 books362 followers
Sienne has a thing for dark and brooding alphas and the diverse women who love them.

She enjoys writing stories where lines are blurred and the romance is dark and delicious.

In her spare time, she unwinds with a nice glass of wine and Netflix binge.

****ALL of my books have trigger warnings. Please take a sec to either visit siennevega.com for a list OR read the front of the book labeled "Content Warnings".****

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5 stars
242 (55%)
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135 (30%)
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46 (10%)
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15 (3%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
Profile Image for CLorraine.
1,773 reviews20 followers
November 5, 2022
I am never able to read this author’s stories in one sitting; I must stop and process the action, react to the scenes, and tell the characters “I can’t believe you said/did that”, reading truly becomes interactive. Sienne Vega pens incredibility complex stories with intricate layers and such natural narratives that the reader feels like they are in the room! When we last encountered Salvatore and Phi, the couple had split with some acrimony and misunderstandings. Having read the magnificent City of Sinners Series, where the couple at least came from the same world and had commonalities, I was curious as to how Ms. Vega would be able to merge the world of law-abiding Phi with the shady world Salvatore inhabited. Twelve years have passed, and our young characters have matured and lived up to the promise of their potential: Phi is a rising star in the justice system, a tenacious and celebrated ADA earmarked to become the DA, while Salvatore has continued to climb the ranks of his organization. The pair has had no physical contact over the years but unbeknownst to Phi, Salvatore has always watched over her (le sigh). When Phi suffers a traumatic and harrowing event, Salvatore swoops in and places her under his close protection. They make amusing and engaging roommates with that undercurrent of heated tension. I love their passion but even more I love the way they interact as friends….so sweet and funny. As our story unfolds, Salvatore and Phi work to unravel the dark connections and secrets that have engulfed Phi’s life. Together, they form one of my all-time favorite power couples; they totally complete each other, equal parts joy and sorrow, and I look forward to reading and interacting on their next journey!
Her stories also always have some of the best secondary characters; I would love to see Stitches as a main character.
Profile Image for IRLover.
166 reviews17 followers
November 20, 2022
Wicked Love Rekindled💞🥰💞

Their time apart didn't fizzle out any desire for one another nor did their stance change where law and order was concerned😬

Salvatore has climbed up in the ranks and Delphine has replaced her dad as the DA, both in charge of their life and both facing danger. The trauma Phi experiences after such a huge career accomplishment was devastatingly hurtful and it broke my heart and I can sense the pain that Salvatore feels when he learns of it🥲🤗. His need to protect and watch over her had never wavered and he does everything to ensure justice is served😘. Although they are grown and mature from their HS days the same issue ends up being the downfall of their rekindled romance❤️. I was rooting for them but again Phi chooses to stick with furthering her career over a love that has a hold on her🥰. I also wished Salvatore had fought for her but the risk was too high that she wouldn’t be safe. I have to say that I really enjoyed Stitches, he was funny and supported his boss well😂👍🏽. Also both dads have some really messed up way manipulating them to do what they believe it right😡😤.

This book does end in a cliffhanger. I do hope that in the next book we’ll finally see what Salvatore’s revenge looks like and that he and Phi can finally be together for good💞.
75 reviews1 follower
January 30, 2023
Missing Trigger Warning

I actually like the book and was drawn in from the get go. However, there was no trigger warning for what our MFC goes through, nor was it necessary for the scene to be quite detailed and graphic!!! Without spoiling, please do personal research into what trigger the book has as it likely may affect some readers.
Profile Image for M.
603 reviews57 followers
December 5, 2022
They've got even more unserious can't wait for book 2 in January ☝🏾
731 reviews4 followers
November 3, 2022
I just love Delphine and Salvatore together. Their chemistry remains off the charts!! This book picks up 12 years after the prequel Forbidden Roses. I highly recommend you read that to get the background story of how they met and what shapes them into the adults they are now. Although they haven't spoken in all that time, they both have kept tabs on each other, Salvatore more than Delphine. I love their personalities and the people they have become. Delphine is now the assistant district attorney, hoping to run for the district attorney next year. She's a boss babe that doesn't let anything stand in her way. Salvatore is a boss in his own right, running a successful business and being a mafia boss. Their worlds collide again when Delphine gets a target on her back, and Salvatore steps in to save her. With enemies closing in, she's going to need his protection more than ever. There were part of the story where my jaw hit the floor and my heart literally broke. I have my suspensions about who is the mastermind(s) behind everything happening to them. And can't wait to see how the story unfolds in the next book. It's such an amazing, emotional story. Excellent read!
Profile Image for Nancy  L Thompson.
2,158 reviews15 followers
November 25, 2022
Talk about a conundrum??

This book has all types of issues in it. I love it!!! Can't wait to see what happens next and to who. Excitement at every turn!!
Profile Image for Nene.
1,786 reviews26 followers
August 21, 2023
Enjoyed!

I enjoyed the story I don't like the Girl's dad. I don't like the way Phi treated Salvatore after all he did for her she reminds me of her no-good Dad. Would recommend.
Profile Image for Rosie.
1,654 reviews32 followers
July 23, 2023
4.5 Stars

We meet Delphine Adams on the day of her big win against a mafia kingpin who threatens her in open court. He publicly promises retribution. An old flame, Salvatore Mancini comes to visit and people in her inner circle encourage her to tread lightly. Her zealousness is dangerous to her well-being and to the criminals who have cracked, bent, broke and circumvented the law with impunity—until now.

She walks around unafraid and there are good reasons (which we're continually told) for that until days later retribution comes in the form of a heinous cowardly, life-changing act that I didn't see coming, nor the flashback of this act. Salvatore gets down to the bottom of her routine change and he vows to find answers.

Wanting to keep her close, he suggests she moves into his secluded loft, far away from prying eyes. They co-exist without any major issues until she accepts a date from a guy that can't no for an answer. In the face of a true Alpha Male, her date cowered and ran off with his tale tucked between his legs, thus proving he's not the man for her.

Delphine and Salvatore come to an agreement. Meanwhile, the folks in her life, her father especially, becomes suspicious of the changes in her life. They aren't as covert as they believed and an unscheduled meeting laid all the cards on the table.

I feel like this story could use a prequel, as I had the feeling of coming in the middle of the story. We're told the backstory, but I would've liked to have read and experienced it for myself. For example, when we learn that Delphine's mother is dead—murdered—I was perplexed as to why Delphine, nor her father (more so) wasn't tearing up the City, trying to find her killer. There is a story there and I hope it isn't what I think it is. I'm on a mafia kick, so I'm on to the next book in the series.

Recommended: Read It!
185 reviews4 followers
November 23, 2022
A decade or so has passed since Delphine and Salvatore went their separate ways but it may well have been ten months because these two together were more combustible than the last time. Once again lines are blurred, crossed and downright deleted. Delphine and Salvatore are so good together but the life they lead and their outlook is so different you can’t help but wonder if they’ll have their happy ever after or even how.
This was another delicious and juicy read with heart, action and some really tender moments throughout. I couldn’t stop reading once I started and didn’t want it to end. Yes, it was that good.
Some of the funnier scenes are with Salvatore and his father. These men hate each other with unreserved passion it’s hard to believe that they are father and son. Salvatore keeps hinting about a secret that will destroy his dad once it is revealed. I have a sick feeling I know what it is. Hopefully all will be revealed in the next book. Bring it on!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Michelle.
570 reviews10 followers
November 10, 2022
I recommend reading Forbidden Roses before you read this so you'll get Delphine and Salvatore's history. Delphine has risen in her career and is now a DA. Salvatore is still the head of the mob family. They haven't seen each other in 12 years. When someone threatens Delphine, Salvatore gets involved and moves her into his loft so he can keep her safe. The flame between the two is still there no matter how much Delphine fights it. Salvatore and his men try to find the threat leading to corruption and backstabbing. Delphine finds out what Salvatore has been doing for their 12 years apart which leads into the cliffhanger. Next book will out in January and I can't wait to see if these two can finally work things out and get their happily ever after. Hopefully Sienne Vega will write a spinoff with a book about Stitches, totally love him!

I am leaving my honest review for a complimentary copy of this book via the author.
Profile Image for Aryes.
17 reviews
January 26, 2024
loved it

I’m trying to do this without giving away spoilers…?
It’s the build up that I enjoy most. I’m frustrated because I’m not getting a happy wrapped up ending nor am I getting a nail biting cliffhanger (I still love those tho so those are not a bad thing). I’m watching the change in the characters as they progress. Who they were, who they are, and who they will come to be has me STRESSED! I loved that the characters went/are going through trauma but are working through it in a relatable way. Unhealthy but realistic. I want to say, communication is the hiccup but it’s not… (to me anyway). They’re chained by circumstance. Things that have been in play or planned that’s been beyond them well before events in Book 0 (read that before this plz) which lead the characters to why they are. A chance happing that neither expected but couldn’t quite leave alone.
I’m excited for what’s going to unfold next.
Profile Image for June.
107 reviews
October 17, 2022
I literally finished this book in one go. Stayed in bed and read it for like 7 hours. I was at the edge of my seat the entire time. Ms. Vega did it again and I cannot wait for the next book. Salvatore and Delphine have a very complicated relationship but nobody understands them like the other. They are the ultimate forbidden love couple. She’s an ADA, he’s in the mafia. They shouldn’t work but they do. Both their fathers are shady AF and I’m still wondering what’s up with them. Anyway in the end I think Delphine was just too scared Salvatore would hurt her but she never even considered that she also had the power to bring Salvatore the great to his knees. I literally cannot wait for the next book. So excited.

Received a free ARC and I’m voluntarily leaving this review because Ms. Vega is my 2022 best writer
Profile Image for Dyjonnay Adams.
217 reviews6 followers
November 7, 2022
I can’t take anymore!!!

I have to wait again😢😢😩 noooo! Oh my gosh…. My heart breaks for salvatore maann.. like why she do him like that!!!! They should say forget everything and move away together… in my dreams!!! Poor delp was not expecting that!!! I don’t think she really understands how many times her life has been saved without her knowledge.. but i get her being upset but her words cut me deep!! Sidenote: I like stitches!!!Will mayor adams and Sal ever get along??? It just breaks my heart because they truly belong together, they really get each other… i feel their connection! I’m sorry i feel i just went on a rant all over the place but that’s how my emotions were while reading. Lucius is evil just another kind of breed. I can’t wait… I can’t wait…. I can’t waittttttt!
Profile Image for Alyssa.
188 reviews1 follower
November 2, 2022
This is a dark mafia romance.

Trigger/Content Warnings:
-Graphic sex and violence/gore
-Graphic depictions/mentions of nonconsensual sexual violence (not between love interests)
-Graphic mentions of child abuse
-Brief depictions of mental health struggles

There is a prequel, Forbidden Roses, that will give you a better idea of the previous relationship between Delphine & Salvatore. I highly recommend reading it before you read this.

I love a good dark mafia romance that includes forbidden love. I love Delphine as a character. She is such a bad ass. She is the ADA and doesn't care about the threats she gets from the criminal families in Northam. She's on the fast track to being voted as Northam's first female DA, who is also Black.

Salvatore is a possessive/jealous hero that I have a love/hate relationship with. There are things he does that make me hate him, but I know he does them because of his love for Delphine.

I'm excited for the next book in the series.
Profile Image for Willie-mai.
460 reviews3 followers
November 3, 2022
Delphine and Salvatore’s story picks up 12 years later in this book. I would advise you to read the beginning novella to get a better understanding of the characters and how the journey for Delphine and Salvatore began. This book was captivating and intriguing. Once you start reading you won’t want to put it down. Their connection to each other is so powerful and magnetic. Along with blazing hot chemistry, a fast paced storyline and action packed dialogue, Sienne Vega wrote a fantastic story! I enjoyed how protective Salvatore is about his Delphine! I am anxiously waiting to see how this plays out. I would highly recommend this book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
262 reviews2 followers
November 7, 2022
Wicked Roses book 2 does not disappoint. This story picks up 12 years later where Delphine is now the assistant district attorney, hoping to run for the district attorney in the next year. Salvatore is running a successful business and being a mafia boss. Their worlds collide again when Delphine gets a target on her back, and Salvatore steps in to save her. He has been keeping tabs on her for the past years unbeknownst to her. When they get together the scenes are hot and heavy! But as things go with these two there are road blocks in the way. This is such an amazing, emotional story. Excellent read! I highly recommend. The only bummer is it ends on a cliff hanger. I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
1,303 reviews3 followers
November 19, 2022
If you want some background prior to reading this book you should read Forbidden Roses. Delphine has worked hard to get where she is as the DA. Salvatore is the head of his family and has worked behind the scenes to keep Phi safe. When she is threatened, he takes more drastic measures and moves her in with him. No matter how much Phi fights it, there are sparks between the two of them. He and his men are trying to figure out what is going on so that she will be safe. Phi learns what he has been doing for 12 years to keep her safe and of course it ends in a cliffhanger. Looking forward to seeing what happens next.

I voluntarily wrote this review from reading an advanced copy of this book.
Profile Image for Adalle.
1,616 reviews8 followers
November 28, 2022
WICKEDLY AWESOMESAUCE

STOP! If you have not read Forbidden Roses the Prequel, then stop and read it first. You’ll thank me later for this.
Wicked Roses picks up from Forbidden Roses and brings EVERYTHING. You will be on an emotional journey that will have you metaphorically looking like you done lost your mind, talking back. You have got to really read this book.

I’m SO LOOKING FORWARD to seeing Twisted Roses and see what’s next with Salt and Pepa… READ THE BOOK…


ANY opinions expressed within this review are solely and uniquely made by me and I am happily leaving this review. I originally voluntarily received an advanced copy of this book via bsprout.


Profile Image for Mindy Lopez.
2,314 reviews14 followers
December 4, 2022
This is Book 1 in the Gangsters and Roses Series by this author. It is a second chance, forbidden romance between mafia boss Salvatore and DA Delphine. There is no denying the sizzling chemistry and strong connection between these two intense and captivating souls. It is a love story with enough drama, mystery, intrigue, secrets, steam, danger, humor, frustrating moments, sweetness, twists and turns, and engaging secondary characters to keep the reader interested. It can be read as a standalone but you enhance your reading pleasure if you read Forbidden Roses, the prequel.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
29 reviews
January 7, 2023
I need more!

Man, where do I start? Delphi sure does know how to get you riled up. I don't think I've ever been so irritated by a character in my life! Everything she was told not to do, went in one ear and out the other. What really got to me was how easy she was able to push Salvatore to the side. He was there through thick and thin and she was so focused on being DA and holding this perfect image she was ruining things that could have solved her crime and made it easier for Salvatore and his team. I pray her character is more mature, intelligent, and ready for Salvatore's help in the final book.
4,262 reviews52 followers
November 3, 2022
Can’t get enough of Salvatore of a Mafia crime family and Delphine the upcoming tough on crime families ADA. They share a history, they were each other’s first love despite Salvatore being part of Mafia. Years later he makes an appearance in her office after she wins a case. She is a target among the Mafia, he wants to protect her. She is tough but Salvatore is her weakness and she is his weakness. This two are so drawn to each other their intensity and chemistry is explosive. Bring on Twisted Roses.

I received this copy and my spoiler free review is voluntary
Profile Image for Dawn Herrera.
704 reviews11 followers
November 6, 2022
This is the first book by Sienne Vega that I have read and found that I could not put it book down. This book has a bit of everything in it drama, danger and definitely chemistry. Two people Delphine and Salvatore drawn to each other from childhood first love and then heart break, when they come face to face after a decade or so they are still drawn to one another but with dark forces around her ready to hurt her, will he be able to protect what has always been his. I really enjoyed this book and I highly recommend it.
181 reviews3 followers
November 20, 2022
This was a great continuation of Delphine and Salvatore’s story. I can’t wait to read book 3. Delphine is finally seeing that things aren’t black and white. Also that sometimes other types of justices outside the law is needed when the law fails. These two fathers are something else too. I can’t wait to read how their plans unfold in book 3. One can only hope that Delphine and Salvatore finally get their HEA. They deserve it.

I received a free copy of this book an am voluntarily leaving a review.
3,421 reviews19 followers
December 5, 2022
This is the first book in the Gangsters and Roses Series which is a second chance romance between Salvatore Mancino, a fierce mafia don, and Delphine/Phi, who had been in love with him only to be jilted. Salvatore returns to protect her a decade later when he learns of imminent danger for her as she is currently a District Attorney. The characters are well defined in this book and the plot has danger, unexpected twists, perceived betrayal, and strong emotions.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Happyscribe.
940 reviews9 followers
December 9, 2022
Sometimes you read a story and are just invested in the storyline while other times you can take or leave it. This book had me invested from the get go. As a couple, Salvatore and Delphine are fire and water, but also really appealing in their affection- attraction to each other. They are complex people and there’s a surprising amount of character development here which I think is what captured my attention. A quick read, but an emotional one.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Fern.
755 reviews14 followers
January 23, 2023
Delphine is sometimes a bit frustrating. I cannot stand her pompous father and I cannot stand Salvatore's evil father. No wonder the young man is violent and does not recognize "love" and what he feels for Delphine. He believes that she is his "obsession" and cannot understand his feelings are much more than that. Delphine is also a little immature as well. She is trying to make her parents happy and follow in her arrogant father's footsteps. Anyway, I am rooting for this couple who believe that they do not have a chance due to their differences. Good read!
344 reviews4 followers
April 15, 2023
Liked this one

I read the king of Vegas series and was totally underwhelmed and irritated with the whole series. Reading this particular series for a purpose, because I had given up on this author even though she is new to me. I surprisingly enjoy the story thats unfolding. I am loving Salvatore and Phi, their opposites attract theme and the forbidden love. I like this couple, love that finally therapy is being mentioned for serious trauma...but also like the twist that has Phi evolving. Can't wait to see what happens!
662 reviews6 followers
April 19, 2023
Omg what a great start to this 3 part series. It so good I’m hooked and have been from the start. I love the story line it’s so thought out. This book is easy to follow and great to read. The character are perfectly balanced and the total opposite. I love Delphine and Salvatore, totally opposite but actually really good for each other, only they both don’t think so, I need book two and three. Will buy them totally. Need to know what’s happening now. Highly recommend.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
1,212 reviews3 followers
May 29, 2024
The attack on Delphi was too descriptive for me and I wasn’t prepared. I hope that level of detail don’t come up in the other books in the series.

Salvatore is a psycho but I like him. He did cross the line a few times so I get why Delphi was pissed. I liked her too for the most but sometimes she was so naive I wanted to shake her.

Lucius is demented and it’s obvious. But I feel like Delphi’s dad is demented too. We just haven’t learned to what detail yet.

I’m wondering if Lucius is really Salvatore’s father. Maybe that’s the secret…

Anyway ready to jump into book two.
43 reviews3 followers
October 18, 2022
This was so good! When we first met Salvatore and Delphine in Forbidden Roses they were just kids, but already you could tell they had forged a bond that would be unbreakable. Wicked Roses picks up years later and the chemistry between them has not diminished at all. I have no clue how they will find a way to overcome their differences, but I have faith that Sienne will get us there in the end and I can't wait to see it happen!

I received a free ARC and I’m voluntarily leaving this review
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