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The Forbidden Trilogy #1
Forbidden Obsession
He’s the only man I want. And the only man I can never have.
A year ago, Maximilian Agosti was there for me through some of my darkest hours. From the
violence I endured on the Manhattan docks, to the mountains where I was kept prisoner to the
depths of a Russian safe house, he protected me. He listened to me.
He was there.
He shed blood for me.
But once upon a time, Max was a priest. A man sworn to abjure violence, wealth, and most
especially pleasure.
He’s broken one of those vows. He’s made it clear he intends to keep the rest. But no matter
how hard I try, I can’t stop thinking about him. Fantasizing about him. Wanting him.
Danger is coming for us both. And the only man who might be able to save me is the one I can’t
stop dreaming of.
My forbidden obsession.
A year ago, Maximilian Agosti was there for me through some of my darkest hours. From the
violence I endured on the Manhattan docks, to the mountains where I was kept prisoner to the
depths of a Russian safe house, he protected me. He listened to me.
He was there.
He shed blood for me.
But once upon a time, Max was a priest. A man sworn to abjure violence, wealth, and most
especially pleasure.
He’s broken one of those vows. He’s made it clear he intends to keep the rest. But no matter
how hard I try, I can’t stop thinking about him. Fantasizing about him. Wanting him.
Danger is coming for us both. And the only man who might be able to save me is the one I can’t
stop dreaming of.
My forbidden obsession.
182 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 20, 2022
378 people are currently reading
495 people want to read
About the author
M. James
65 books413 followersPrepare to be captivated by the sensational world of M. James, the mastermind behind a genre-defying realm of romance and intrigue. With a pen dipped in passion and a heart that beats to the rhythm of forbidden desires, M. James weaves tantalizing tales that will leave you breathless and yearning for more.
Follow her to the dark side where strong heroines fearlessly navigate treacherous paths and damaged heroes find solace in their darkest corners. Her words will wrap around your senses like a seductive embrace, transporting you to a world where love and danger dance a wicked tango.
M. James resides in the suburbs of Chicago but lives for the big moments that make life interesting. Although writing brings her passion and darkest fantasies alive, watching suspenseful thrillers with her two dogs and loving husband brings her excitement in the most exhilarating way. Nonetheless, getting lost in a dark mafia romance along with a tall glass of wine makes any day a bit juicier.
From enemies to lovers to forbidden romances, M. James' stories of passion, intrigue, and betrayal will keep you hooked until the very end. If your appetite craves the intoxicating prose of Rina Kent or the allure of Sophie Lark, prepare to be entangled in M. James' captivating new series. But be warned, dear reader, for her world is not for the faint of heart. It is a world where inhibitions are shed, and inhibitions are tested. It is a world where passion reigns supreme, and where the pursuit of love can ignite a blaze that consumes all in its path.
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Follow her to the dark side where strong heroines fearlessly navigate treacherous paths and damaged heroes find solace in their darkest corners. Her words will wrap around your senses like a seductive embrace, transporting you to a world where love and danger dance a wicked tango.
M. James resides in the suburbs of Chicago but lives for the big moments that make life interesting. Although writing brings her passion and darkest fantasies alive, watching suspenseful thrillers with her two dogs and loving husband brings her excitement in the most exhilarating way. Nonetheless, getting lost in a dark mafia romance along with a tall glass of wine makes any day a bit juicier.
From enemies to lovers to forbidden romances, M. James' stories of passion, intrigue, and betrayal will keep you hooked until the very end. If your appetite craves the intoxicating prose of Rina Kent or the allure of Sophie Lark, prepare to be entangled in M. James' captivating new series. But be warned, dear reader, for her world is not for the faint of heart. It is a world where inhibitions are shed, and inhibitions are tested. It is a world where passion reigns supreme, and where the pursuit of love can ignite a blaze that consumes all in its path.
FOLLOW ME ON MY SOCIALS
BUNDLES & MORE
EXCLUSIVE FACEBOOK GROUP
TIKTOK
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
November 23, 2022
Didn't read more than the first chapter honestly so you may take this with a grain of salt but I really couldn't get past the heroine actively praising (?) her trafficker.
January 20, 2023
This series is not one of my favorite's that follows the characters in this grouping of stories that include Luca and Sophia's and Viktor and Catrina's stories. I took a break from Ana and Liam's story because of the brutality this author imposes upon her MFC's. After reading three out of four of these stories whereas the characters reappear, I found a common denominator; women in these stories are brutalized by their husband's and or MMC's enemies and secondary characters. Luca as well as Viktor were not characters that I liked or embraced until the end of their stories. It was only then that I gave them a plus for improvement, but were men that were self-absorbed and thoughtless in their actions throughout most of their stories. Both were difficult men to like after reading what Sophia and ESPECIALLY Catarina went through at the hands of these men and their enemies.
Max and Sophia's story to date has been very predictable. The whole priest vow hang-up after leaving the priesthood is a bit over emphasized. The fact that he still feels attached to the priesthood and considers sex to be a vow he shouldn't break is a bit old fashion and outdated. Why leave the priesthood if you are still attached to their ways....just go to confession and move on.
Sophia's character is somewhat more relatable considering what she went through in Catarina's story. She went through some brutal stuff that went on and on so having PTSD and fears about dating men seems understandable. Not sure her sessions with the shrink are really helping her, but at least she is getting help unlike Max who just wallows in his own self-pity and self-destructive behavior. Either agree to having a sexual relationship with her or move on and let her find someone else.
I hope the story picks up in book two and stops emphasizing the on-again off-again sexual angst between these characters that goes nowhere except adding on more guilt to two characters that have plenty of it. I hope that the brutality that the other women endured in their series, is not the focus of book 2 in this duet, but has a storyline rich in overcoming Max's and Sophia's enemies and coming together as man and woman.
Max and Sophia's story to date has been very predictable. The whole priest vow hang-up after leaving the priesthood is a bit over emphasized. The fact that he still feels attached to the priesthood and considers sex to be a vow he shouldn't break is a bit old fashion and outdated. Why leave the priesthood if you are still attached to their ways....just go to confession and move on.
Sophia's character is somewhat more relatable considering what she went through in Catarina's story. She went through some brutal stuff that went on and on so having PTSD and fears about dating men seems understandable. Not sure her sessions with the shrink are really helping her, but at least she is getting help unlike Max who just wallows in his own self-pity and self-destructive behavior. Either agree to having a sexual relationship with her or move on and let her find someone else.
I hope the story picks up in book two and stops emphasizing the on-again off-again sexual angst between these characters that goes nowhere except adding on more guilt to two characters that have plenty of it. I hope that the brutality that the other women endured in their series, is not the focus of book 2 in this duet, but has a storyline rich in overcoming Max's and Sophia's enemies and coming together as man and woman.
November 21, 2022
OMG- Max & Sasha Slow Burn 🔥
This story has been along awaited addition to this series!! It doesn’t end here and the next book is slated for December so be prepared to have some jaw-dropping moments, some tears will fall, and you will be engulfed in their friendship/needs/desires! This is a slow burn but since it doesn’t conclude here it is expected so be prepared!!
Max is a former priest but his vows are more serious then life. He won’t break anymore than he already has but when he is around Sasha he can’t overcome these feelings and needs. He had some harsh self-punishment for himself which will make you cringe but it just demonstrates his devotion. However, these feelings and obsessions with her is making it harder to stay away. He does his best but not a man is only so strong! There is also the element of danger lurking around every corner for him and Sasha. His enemy has found out she is important to him and she is now a target!
Sasha has been in love with Max since he rescued her in Russia. She knows his vows are sacred to him but she can’t stop wanting to show him what he means to her! She knows this is going to be a battle but she is not going to stop wanting and needing him in her life. She pursues with vigor and determination. She is determined to show him anyway she can how much he means to her.
Danger is imminent in their lives and she knows the only way to be safe is with Max. Sending them away to Italy is the only way to keep them safe. But will it be enough!! Their journey continues in the next story of their saga so be prepared for a bit of heartache, disappointment, and dedication from all these amazing characters. Happy Reading!!
This story has been along awaited addition to this series!! It doesn’t end here and the next book is slated for December so be prepared to have some jaw-dropping moments, some tears will fall, and you will be engulfed in their friendship/needs/desires! This is a slow burn but since it doesn’t conclude here it is expected so be prepared!!
Max is a former priest but his vows are more serious then life. He won’t break anymore than he already has but when he is around Sasha he can’t overcome these feelings and needs. He had some harsh self-punishment for himself which will make you cringe but it just demonstrates his devotion. However, these feelings and obsessions with her is making it harder to stay away. He does his best but not a man is only so strong! There is also the element of danger lurking around every corner for him and Sasha. His enemy has found out she is important to him and she is now a target!
Sasha has been in love with Max since he rescued her in Russia. She knows his vows are sacred to him but she can’t stop wanting to show him what he means to her! She knows this is going to be a battle but she is not going to stop wanting and needing him in her life. She pursues with vigor and determination. She is determined to show him anyway she can how much he means to her.
Danger is imminent in their lives and she knows the only way to be safe is with Max. Sending them away to Italy is the only way to keep them safe. But will it be enough!! Their journey continues in the next story of their saga so be prepared for a bit of heartache, disappointment, and dedication from all these amazing characters. Happy Reading!!
March 14, 2024
Dominic is the underboss of the Lucas Cosa Nostra. His father is the boss. Dominic never really wanted to be a part of the Cosa Nostra but he was forced to because he is the only son. Dominic is an academic advisor at the Manhattan Excellence & Arts University. He enjoys working at the University but Dominic also is known as the Black Rose, he kills men from the underworld and nobody knows it is actually Dominic. He is using the Black Rose because it is associated with the Lucas Cosa Nostra. Dominic meets Penelope a student at the university when she is involved in an accident on his car. Penelope has a crush on Dominic and she wants to get to know him. Her parents are in prison for robbery and murder. She was then sent to live with her uncle who molested her when there were thunder storms so Penelope has bad reactions to thunderstorms.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book via Bad Bod Update.
Fantastic Book One of Boneless Redemption Duet!
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book via Bad Bod Update.
Fantastic Book One of Boneless Redemption Duet!
November 6, 2025
Forbidden Obsession delivers a dark and emotional story filled with trauma, temptation, and redemption. Sasha’s journey—from surviving trafficking to finding safety with Viktor—sets the stage for a complicated and forbidden connection with Max, a former priest struggling between faith and desire. Their chemistry is undeniable, and the emotional tension kept me turning the pages.
While the first half was gripping and full of intensity, the pacing in the second half felt rushed, and the resolution wrapped up a little too neatly for such a heavy premise. Still, M. James writes with depth and passion, and the themes of healing and forbidden love make this a compelling start to the series.
While the first half was gripping and full of intensity, the pacing in the second half felt rushed, and the resolution wrapped up a little too neatly for such a heavy premise. Still, M. James writes with depth and passion, and the themes of healing and forbidden love make this a compelling start to the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 27, 2022
Can't wait to see what happens with these two.
Sasha is still traumatized by what happened to her about a year ago and even though everyone tells her she should put herself out there and start dating she just doesn't feel ready for that. The only man she has any interest in is Max, a former priest who is dead set on keeping the vows he hasn't broken. They have both been broken in the past and need to heal, but Max's past is coming back for him and Sasha may get caught in the cross fire.
Sasha is still traumatized by what happened to her about a year ago and even though everyone tells her she should put herself out there and start dating she just doesn't feel ready for that. The only man she has any interest in is Max, a former priest who is dead set on keeping the vows he hasn't broken. They have both been broken in the past and need to heal, but Max's past is coming back for him and Sasha may get caught in the cross fire.
June 24, 2023
Sasha & Max
This is the first book of Sasha and Max's story.
We are introduced to them and taken through the story of Sasha's past and parts of Max's but not everything. He is an ex-priest with secrets.
The relationship is a budding slow romance with only one wanting it physical. But then there is no way to resist. This is poignant to the characters story's and past's. So I glad that throughout the book we were given different levels of intimacy.
The next book ended on a bit of a cliffhanger. So we are in for a great start for book 2.
This is the first book of Sasha and Max's story.
We are introduced to them and taken through the story of Sasha's past and parts of Max's but not everything. He is an ex-priest with secrets.
The relationship is a budding slow romance with only one wanting it physical. But then there is no way to resist. This is poignant to the characters story's and past's. So I glad that throughout the book we were given different levels of intimacy.
The next book ended on a bit of a cliffhanger. So we are in for a great start for book 2.
November 24, 2022
3.5 stars
3.5 stars
We waited a very long time for the simmering attraction between Max and Sasha to come to something.
And here it is. The first part, anyway. They are fire together. But Max, poor dear Max, is so conflicted. His last shred of priestly vows keep coming between them. It gets old for the reader as it frustrates and saddens Sasha.
There’s a second and probably a third book coming. To delve into Max’ life and who is after him. Who threatens Sasha.
3.5 stars
We waited a very long time for the simmering attraction between Max and Sasha to come to something.
And here it is. The first part, anyway. They are fire together. But Max, poor dear Max, is so conflicted. His last shred of priestly vows keep coming between them. It gets old for the reader as it frustrates and saddens Sasha.
There’s a second and probably a third book coming. To delve into Max’ life and who is after him. Who threatens Sasha.
December 17, 2025
Forbidden love
The first book of the obsession series written by M. James is so challenging you are ready to devour the final two novels immediately . Sasha and Max's journey is so full of excitement and confused feelings the reader wants answers to this romantic mystery. Be sure read this trilogy!
The first book of the obsession series written by M. James is so challenging you are ready to devour the final two novels immediately . Sasha and Max's journey is so full of excitement and confused feelings the reader wants answers to this romantic mystery. Be sure read this trilogy!
November 23, 2022
Her savior
Such a good storyline. I love Sasha but hate all that she goes through. Max is always there to save her. I hate that I have to wait a month to read what happens next! I'm on pins and needles to find out what's next.
Such a good storyline. I love Sasha but hate all that she goes through. Max is always there to save her. I hate that I have to wait a month to read what happens next! I'm on pins and needles to find out what's next.
January 11, 2023
boring
Such a boring mafia/Bratva story. More details of the food eaten and the brands of clothing worn than any action. An unchurched former priest trying to keep his vows is ridiculous to write about.
Such a boring mafia/Bratva story. More details of the food eaten and the brands of clothing worn than any action. An unchurched former priest trying to keep his vows is ridiculous to write about.
November 22, 2022
Really good.. I'm glad we don't have to wait to long for the continuation..
November 28, 2022
I can’t wait for the next book to come out I hope it is soon
January 10, 2024
nothing was forbidden here. or obsessed for that manner. just a guy that didn’t really want to date the girl.
February 4, 2024
I didn’t know a priest could be so hot
December 19, 2024
This was better then expecting
Read
July 14, 2025DNF
September 21, 2025
Meh. Slow burn but just wasn’t feeling it.
September 29, 2025
oh my
Oh my what a rollercoaster of a book , the way she’s so strong even when her heart is broken & her life is been so bad up till now.
Oh my what a rollercoaster of a book , the way she’s so strong even when her heart is broken & her life is been so bad up till now.
Read
January 22, 2026DNF @ 20% (pg 38)
Just not feeling this one
Just not feeling this one
December 22, 2025
this was not for me
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews