95 books like God of Vengeance

By Michelle Heard,

Here are 95 books that God of Vengeance fans have personally recommended if you like God of Vengeance. Shepherd is a community of 12,000+ authors and super readers sharing their favorite books with the world.

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Book cover of Captive in the Dark

Soraya Naomi Author Of For Fallon

From my list on dark romance with over-the-top possessive men.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’m completely obsessed with dark romance books! Seriously, after more than fifteen years of diving into these wild novels, I’ve uncovered so many gems that I can’t get enough of. I’m not here for stories about happy-go-lucky people; I want all the drama, all the angst, and all those swoon-worthy anti-heroes who make my heart race! These books are like a delicious escape, where every plot twist keeps me on my toes, and every character is delightfully flawed. It’s a rollercoaster ride of passion and drama. I love getting lost in the emotional chaos and gripping stories where anything can happen. 

Soraya's book list on dark romance with over-the-top possessive men

Soraya Naomi Why did Soraya love this book?

This is one of the most intense and gripping dark romances I've ever read. The story follows Caleb, a damaged man seeking revenge, and Livvie, the innocent girl he kidnaps. From the start, I was pulled into their twisted, complicated dynamic. It’s dark, raw, and pushes boundaries, but I couldn’t stop reading. Caleb is a character you both hate and feel for, while Livvie’s journey from fear to something more complex kept me glued to the pages. 

He’s the morally greyest character, and I hated to love him, but that’s what made him unforgettable. This book will definitely leave a mark. Caleb will always be one of my favorite anti-heroes, making this an unforgettable dark romance that still stands as the best I’ve ever read.

By CJ Roberts,

Why should I read it?

2 authors picked Captive in the Dark as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Please heed all warnings. ****This is a series about captivity in a FICTIONAL and EROTICIZED setting. It contains very disturbing situations, dubious consent, strong language, and graphic violence.****

OVER 150,000 COPIES SOLD!

This edition of CAPTIVE IN THE DARK features a new cover that when combined with the other books in DARK DUET: Platinum Edition series makes a lovely addition to any bookshelf.

It is NO DIFFERENT in content from previous editions of the series.

CAPTIVE IN THE DARK (BOOK 1):
Caleb is a man with a singular interest in revenge. Kidnapped as a young boy and sold into slavery…


Book cover of Sempre

Soraya Naomi Author Of For Fallon

From my list on dark romance with over-the-top possessive men.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’m completely obsessed with dark romance books! Seriously, after more than fifteen years of diving into these wild novels, I’ve uncovered so many gems that I can’t get enough of. I’m not here for stories about happy-go-lucky people; I want all the drama, all the angst, and all those swoon-worthy anti-heroes who make my heart race! These books are like a delicious escape, where every plot twist keeps me on my toes, and every character is delightfully flawed. It’s a rollercoaster ride of passion and drama. I love getting lost in the emotional chaos and gripping stories where anything can happen. 

Soraya's book list on dark romance with over-the-top possessive men

Soraya Naomi Why did Soraya love this book?

This book totally swept me away! Carmine, the ultimate bad boy with a soft spot, and Haven, the innocent girl caught in a world of mafia chaos, had me rooting for them from the start. Their love story is intense, heart-melting, and just the right amount of drama. I couldn’t put it down!

The mafia elements add an extra layer of suspense that had me on the edge of my seat, and let’s be honest, Carmine is the kind of morally grey character I can’t resist. 

By J.M. Darhower,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Sempre as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Haven Antonelli and Carmine DeMarco grew up under vastly different circumstances. Haven, a second-generation slave, was isolated in the middle of the desert, her days full of hard work and terrifying abuse. Carmine, born into a wealthy Mafia family, lived a life of privilege and excess.

Now, a twist of fate causes their worlds to collide. Entangled in a web of secrets and lies, they learn that while different on the surface, they have more in common than anyone would think.

In a world full of chaos, where money and power rule, Haven and Carmine yearn to break free, but…


Book cover of Reviving Izabel

Soraya Naomi Author Of For Fallon

From my list on dark romance with over-the-top possessive men.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’m completely obsessed with dark romance books! Seriously, after more than fifteen years of diving into these wild novels, I’ve uncovered so many gems that I can’t get enough of. I’m not here for stories about happy-go-lucky people; I want all the drama, all the angst, and all those swoon-worthy anti-heroes who make my heart race! These books are like a delicious escape, where every plot twist keeps me on my toes, and every character is delightfully flawed. It’s a rollercoaster ride of passion and drama. I love getting lost in the emotional chaos and gripping stories where anything can happen. 

Soraya's book list on dark romance with over-the-top possessive men

Soraya Naomi Why did Soraya love this book?

This book is like a rollercoaster that you didn’t know you needed! From the first page, I was obsessed with Izabel’s fierce spirit and her journey of self-discovery. The way she navigates her tangled past is both heart-wrenching and inspiring.

This author has a way of making you feel every emotion, from gut-wrenching sadness to the thrill of unexpected love. The characters are so real and relatable; I found myself rooting for Izabel and her villainous love interest (seriously, swoon-worthy!) as they faced obstacles that made my heart race. The chemistry? Off the charts! Plus, the witty banter kept me giggling through the tears.

By J. A. Redmerski,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Reviving Izabel as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ "This series is Spectacular!" - SMI BOOK CLUB
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ "Mind-f*ck at its finest and I loved every single minute of it." - Amazon Customer
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ "Say goodbye to your nails..." - Amazon Customer on Killing Sarai
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ "Dark, compelling, deathly violent and just fan-bloody-tastic!" - Goodreads Reviewer on Reviving Izabel
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ "5+ Crushing, Amazing & Shocking STARS" - The Book Enthusiast on The Swan & the Jackal
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ "There is no going back for me,…


Book cover of God of Malice

Soraya Naomi Author Of For Fallon

From my list on dark romance with over-the-top possessive men.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’m completely obsessed with dark romance books! Seriously, after more than fifteen years of diving into these wild novels, I’ve uncovered so many gems that I can’t get enough of. I’m not here for stories about happy-go-lucky people; I want all the drama, all the angst, and all those swoon-worthy anti-heroes who make my heart race! These books are like a delicious escape, where every plot twist keeps me on my toes, and every character is delightfully flawed. It’s a rollercoaster ride of passion and drama. I love getting lost in the emotional chaos and gripping stories where anything can happen. 

Soraya's book list on dark romance with over-the-top possessive men

Soraya Naomi Why did Soraya love this book?

This book is a wickedly twisted ride! Picture this: a cold and ruthless anti-hero named Killian, who’s as dangerous as he is irresistible, and Glyndon, who finds herself irresistibly drawn into his dark and chaotic world. The chemistry between them? Let’s just say it’s intense enough to spark a fire—and then throw some gasoline on it! What really kept me glued to the pages was their electrifying, almost toxic connection.

The tension between them is off the charts, and you never quite know what to expect next. Killian is unapologetically brutal, playing psychological mind games that had me on the edge of my seat. It’s raw and definitely not for the faint of heart, but I couldn’t put it down!

By Rina Kent,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked God of Malice as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

NOTE: This is the special edition print of God of Malice. To find the ebook and audiobook, please look for the main edition.

From USA Today bestselling author Rina Kent comes a new STANDALONE dark romance about a villain and his new obsession.

I caught the attention of a monster.
I didn’t ask for it.
Didn’t even see it coming.
But the moment I do, it’s too late.
Killian Carson is a predator wrapped in sophisticated charm.
He’s cold-blooded, manipulative, and savage.
The worst part is that no one sees his devil side.
I do.
And that will cost me…


Book cover of Cosa Nostra: A History of the Sicilian Mafia

Anika Scott Author Of Sinners of Starlight City

From my list on sparking an obsession with Sicily.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’ve been a traveler and a dreamer ever since I was a little girl. I used to write to the tourism bureaus of different countries and tape pictures of faraway places onto the walls of my bedroom. It’s no surprise I ended up living in Europe, my home base for excursions all over the world. My historical fiction always features places that mean a lot to me, whether it’s Germany (where I live now), or Sicily – where my mother’s family came from. Digging into my Sicilian heritage and the culture and life of the island for my third novel was like discovering a new home.

Anika's book list on sparking an obsession with Sicily

Anika Scott Why did Anika love this book?

I’m a fan of gangster books and movies, but there’s nothing quite like learning about the real brutality and power of the original Sicilian mafia.

Dickie’s book takes a historical view, showing why that kind of organization developed in Sicily of all places, and how the Sicilians have protected it, and fought against it. The anecdotes are sometimes funny and sometimes truly chilling.

If you’re as interested in the history of organized crime as I am, this is a must read.

By John Dickie,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Cosa Nostra as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Hailed in Italy as the best book ever written about the mafia in any language, Cosa Nostra is a fascinating, violent, and darkly comic account that reads like fiction and takes us deep into the inner sanctum of this secret society where few have dared to tread.In this gripping history of the Sicilian mafia, John Dickie uses startling new research to reveal the inner workings of this secret society with a murderous record. He explains how the mafia began, how it responds to threats and challenges, and introduces us to the real-life characters that inspired the American imagination for generations,…


Book cover of The Godmother

Jacqueline Alio Author Of Queens of Sicily 1061-1266

From my list on Sicilian women and their lives.

Why am I passionate about this?

Very little has been written in English about Sicilian women. Most of the studies written in English about the women of southern Italy are the work of foreigners who discovered our region in adulthood. While some non-Italian colleagues have produced fine work, my books reflect the perspective of a scholar who, being Sicilian, has been familiar with the region and its people all her life. This is seen in my knowledge of the Sicilian language, from which I've translated texts, and even the medieval cuisine mentioned in my books. Viva la Sicilia!

Jacqueline's book list on Sicilian women and their lives

Jacqueline Alio Why did Jacqueline love this book?

This is a different story about a different kind of woman. And no, it's not about the Mafia; that's only a peripheral theme.

The typical novels written in English about Sicily by women are built around themes like a foreign girl going to Italy to find love. This one breaks that mould into a thousand pieces, dealing with familial history and tradition in the context of Sicilian and American society. It actually held my interest.

Leigh Esposito's complex story eclipses most of what came before.

By Leigh Esposito,

Why should I read it?

2 authors picked The Godmother as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.


Book cover of Reckless Heir

Stacy Kristen Author Of Jax: An Age Gap, Second Chance at Love MC Romance

From my list on unforgettable spicy romance reads.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’m an indie romance author obsessed with all things romance, the spicier the better! I’m all about the happy ending, so all my books feature a happy ever after (HEA) or happy for now (HFN).

Stacy's book list on unforgettable spicy romance reads

Stacy Kristen Why did Stacy love this book?

This book intrigued me from the start, as it has an arranged marriage trope involving the Bratva and the Cosa Nostra mafia. As soon as I read the blurb, I was like, ‘Won’t they just kill each other and be done with it?’ But alas, no. The main character is a pawn between the two entities and the author intertwines the plot beautifully, creating one amazing book.

By Jenika Snow,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Reckless Heir as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

*A top 35 Amazon bestseller*

From USA Today bestselling author Jenika Snow comes a new full-length standalone arranged marriage mafia romance set in the Underworld Kings world that blurs the lines between right and wrong.

My father sold me off to a ruthless killer in the Russian mafia, an alliance between the Bratva and the Cosa Nostra.

An arranged marriage where I’d be at the mercy of the man who’d no doubt see me as his property, where I was sure he’d be just as cruel and violent as every other Made Man I’d known in my life.

Nikolai Petrov,…


Book cover of The Canadian Connection

John Allore Author Of Wish You Were Here

From my list on to fall down a rabbit hole.

Why am I passionate about this?

I chose these books because a theme in my writing is standing up, and being a champion for things that get forgotten – books, music, events, people. Also, for anyone who has done investigative reporting, the sense is always like you’re going down a rabbit hole and penetrating a dark, undiscovered country. Also – and I don’t think many people know this – I was an English Lit major in college at the University of Toronto. In my early days I did a lot of reading, on a disparate field of interests. 

John's book list on to fall down a rabbit hole

John Allore Why did John love this book?

The Canadian Connection is an expose of the mafia in Canada and its implications for international crime operations. It was first published in French in the mid-1970s and immediately went on to become a national bestseller. There was a time in Quebec when you couldn’t turn the page of a newspaper without seeing an ad with an order form urging you to buy this “Shocking! Chilling!” book that revealed “Names! Dates! Locations!” Jean-Pierre Charbonneau is today considered one of the godfathers of Quebec writings on organized crime. The Canadian Connection is largely forgotten in English-speaking Canada and widely unknown to the rest of the world. It is essential reading for anyone with an interest in the history of the mafia, and connections to the New York Five Families of organized crime. 

By Jean-Pierre Charbonneau,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked The Canadian Connection as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Text: English, French (translation)


Book cover of Target: Italy: The Secret War Against Mussolini 1940-1943

Peter Dixon Author Of Return to Vienna: The Special Operations Executive and the Rebirth of Austria

From my list on living undercover in constant danger during WW2.

Why am I passionate about this?

Hodder and IVP had already published two of my earlier books—during my three decades as a Royal Air Force pilot and another one leading a conflict resolution NGO—when my journey as a WW2 author began. It all started with my wife's book about her German mother and British Intelligence Corps father (The Bride's Trunk). That got me interested in the links between 'the Corps' and the Special Operations Executive. Three SOE books later, I’m following the organisation into Austria. I've barely scratched the surface of undercover operations and I’m always finding new niches to discover.

Peter's book list on living undercover in constant danger during WW2

Peter Dixon Why did Peter love this book?

Oxford academic Dr. Roderick Bailey is an expert on the Special Operations Executive who made helpful comments to improve my first WW2 book. I love the little-known stories of Italian and British secret agents that populate this book, which is the official history of SOE’s undercover war against Mussolini's Italy. I enjoy tracing the strategic impact of relatively minor actions. Some efforts succeeded, many failed. There were the attempts to make common cause with the Sicilian Mafia. There was the agent paid and supplied by SOE who was really working for Italian Counter-Intelligence. And there was the SOE agent who parachuted into Lake Como, was immediately captured and expected execution, but survived to provide the secret radio link that enabled Italy to surrender and change sides. 

By Roderick Bailey,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Target as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Drawing on long-classified documents, Target: Italy is the official history of the war waged by Britain's Special Operations Executive on Benito Mussolini's Fascist Italy. It is the first full account of SOE's clandestine efforts to strike at Italy and sever its alliance with Nazi Germany, uncovering missions as remarkable as a plot to assassinate Mussolini and plans to arm the Mafia. It is also the first in-depth history of SOE's attempts at causing trouble inside an enemy country as opposed to an enemy-occupied one, issuing a sobering reminder of the terrible dangers that foreign agencies can encounter when trying to…


Book cover of Little Man: The Gangster Life of Meyer Lansky

S.J. Peddie Author Of Sonny: The Last of the Old Time Mafia Bosses, John "Sonny" Franzese

From my list on life in the Mafia.

Why am I passionate about this?

Having grown up in Minnesota, I didn’t even know about the existence of the Mafia until I saw The Godfather! After I moved to New York to work in journalism, I was stunned to see how intertwined mob guys were with every facet of life, from government to entertainment to grocery stores. I became a passionate reader (and now writer) of Mafia history so that I could understand it. I find mob stories endlessly fascinating because of what they reveal about human nature. Organized crime hasn’t gone away, and we ignore it at our peril. I think you'll enjoy these recommendations.

S.J.'s book list on life in the Mafia

S.J. Peddie Why did S.J. love this book?

I loved this book about Meyer Lansky, the financial wizard of the mob because it is so thoroughly researched. Author Robert Lacey draws on firsthand interviews with family members and friends and archival records. His writing is intelligent and insightful.

This book skips the cliches and goes beneath the surface. Lansky emerges as a complicated, and determined and utterly human gangster. It is impossible to understand organized crime without understanding Meyer Lansky.

By Robert Lacey,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Little Man as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

The story of Meyer Lansky and the criminal empire he supervised exposes the harsh reality of life in the underworld and demonstrates how Lansky's desire to achieve mythic status as an outlaw ultimately destroyed him


5 book lists we think you will like!

Interested in mafia romance, Sicily, and arranged marriage?

Mafia Romance 16 books
Sicily 55 books