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A Forced Marriage
I was never supposed to inherit the De Luca empire. That was my brother’s role. Until he died, and my father made it clear he wished it had been me instead. Now, I’m nothing more than a pawn in his power plays, a disappointment he’s determined to control. His latest demand? Marry a woman of his choosing and secure an alliance I want no part of.
I don’t take orders. Not from my father. Not from anyone.
So when I find Cece Sutton dancing in a club, trying to pay off a debt she’ll never escape, I make a decision I have no right to make.
I buy her freedom. And then, I make her mine.
It’s not about kindness. It’s not about saving her. It’s about control. About shutting my father out of my life for good. A forced marriage. A debt repaid. A deal neither of us wanted.
She hates me for it. I don’t blame her. Cece is all sharp edges and defiance, a woman who refuses to bow, even when she’s trapped. I tell myself she’s nothing more than a means to an end. That the way I watch her—the way I crave her—means nothing.
It’s a lie.
A dirty, dirty lie.
I thought the most dangerous thing in my life was my father. I was wrong.
It’s her. It’s us. It’s the way she makes me want something I was never meant to have.
Something real.
I don’t take orders. Not from my father. Not from anyone.
So when I find Cece Sutton dancing in a club, trying to pay off a debt she’ll never escape, I make a decision I have no right to make.
I buy her freedom. And then, I make her mine.
It’s not about kindness. It’s not about saving her. It’s about control. About shutting my father out of my life for good. A forced marriage. A debt repaid. A deal neither of us wanted.
She hates me for it. I don’t blame her. Cece is all sharp edges and defiance, a woman who refuses to bow, even when she’s trapped. I tell myself she’s nothing more than a means to an end. That the way I watch her—the way I crave her—means nothing.
It’s a lie.
A dirty, dirty lie.
I thought the most dangerous thing in my life was my father. I was wrong.
It’s her. It’s us. It’s the way she makes me want something I was never meant to have.
Something real.
328 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 5, 2026
10 people are currently reading
18 people want to read
About the author
A.K. MacBride
24 books1,138 followers
Introducing A.K. MacBride, a passionate wordsmith with an insatiable love for crafting heartwarming love stories. She brews tales as tantalizing as her coffee and indulges in the bittersweet world of dark chocolate, all while savoring life's sweetest moments in a quaint South African town.
When she's not creating intricate tapestries of love, longing, and untold desire, you'll often find her lost in the aromatic embrace of freshly brewed coffee—her trusted companion in moments of reflection and creativity. As the rich aroma permeates her writing sanctuary, she lets her imagination soar, conjuring captivating characters and delightful encounters that leave her readers yearning for more.
But it's not just coffee that sets her heart aflutter. A connoisseur of the finest dark chocolate, she indulges in the velvety decadence, allowing its rich flavors to inspire her characters' intense passions and the intricacies of their relationships. Just as the delicate balance of flavors dances on her taste buds, her writing tantalizes the hearts of her readers, leaving them craving the sweetness of true love.
Amidst the joyous chaos of her literary world, she finds unwavering support and endless love in her husband and daughter. They are the pillars of her existence, a constant reminder that true romance is not only found within the pages of a book but also in the tender moments shared with loved ones. With their presence in her life, her stories overflow with authenticity, depth, and the promise of happily ever afters.
So, grab a cup of coffee, savor a piece of dark chocolate, and lose yourself in the tender embrace of A.K. MacBride’s enchanting tales. For within the pages of her novels, love blossoms, hearts mend, and extraordinary journeys of the heart await, all crafted with the delicate touch of a romance author who understands the power of a perfectly brewed love story.
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
I absolutely loved this book. Such a great addition to this series. I was hooked from the first chapter & feral for Rafe by chapter 5. Both characters somewhat "broken", battling with past hurts. Rafe with walls as high as mount everest & Cecelia feeling like she's failing. Forced into a marriage a fake marriage that soon turns into much more. The rawness of Rafe's feelings, his vulnerability when he finally let's those walls crumble & let Cecilia in, was chef's kiss. The spice was spicing and the banter was bantering. Definitely not a book to be missed
Review of advance copy received from Author
A.K MACBRIDE I KNOW YOU CAN SEE THIS AND I AM HOOKED!
I need everyone to understand something very clearly… I have loved Rafe since day one. He has been ‘my’ man for this entire series and this book felt like it was written specifically to ruin me on a personal level.. really!
Rafe did NOT disappoint. If anything, he exceeded expectations and then stomped on my emotional stability for fun and to keep me attached.
This man is cold, controlled, secretly dangerous and emotionally repressed in a way that should be illegal. The authority. The restraint. The way he moves through the world like he owns it and everyone in it, and owns them in the most adorable way because he cares. Every single time he was on the page, I had to stop and breathe because the grip he has??? Unmatched and addictive.
And THANK YOU for not softening him. THANK YOU for letting him stay intense, possessive, morally questionable and unapologetically himself. Watching him struggle with feelings he absolutely does not want, all the while still being ruthlessly competent and protective was EVERYTHING I’ve ever wanted from his book.
Was I normal while reading this? Oh no. Did I highlight far too many Rafe moments? Yes. Would I defend him in court or fight for him? Absolutely.
I highlighted so many Rafe moments my Kindle is basically a shrine at this point. Was I calm while reading? No. Was I giggling, pacing, whispering “this man” to myself and messaging the author? Absolutely.
This book felt like a reward for the Rafe girlies who stayed loyal. If you’ve been waiting for his story, trust me… it delivers. I would read 500 more pages of him brooding and making questionable decisions and being terrifyingly devoted.
A.K Macbride you knew exactly what you were doing and thank you.
RAFE DE LUCA SUPREMACY. No notes. No criticism. Just vibes and feral devotion.
I need everyone to understand something very clearly… I have loved Rafe since day one. He has been ‘my’ man for this entire series and this book felt like it was written specifically to ruin me on a personal level.. really!
Rafe did NOT disappoint. If anything, he exceeded expectations and then stomped on my emotional stability for fun and to keep me attached.
This man is cold, controlled, secretly dangerous and emotionally repressed in a way that should be illegal. The authority. The restraint. The way he moves through the world like he owns it and everyone in it, and owns them in the most adorable way because he cares. Every single time he was on the page, I had to stop and breathe because the grip he has??? Unmatched and addictive.
And THANK YOU for not softening him. THANK YOU for letting him stay intense, possessive, morally questionable and unapologetically himself. Watching him struggle with feelings he absolutely does not want, all the while still being ruthlessly competent and protective was EVERYTHING I’ve ever wanted from his book.
Was I normal while reading this? Oh no. Did I highlight far too many Rafe moments? Yes. Would I defend him in court or fight for him? Absolutely.
I highlighted so many Rafe moments my Kindle is basically a shrine at this point. Was I calm while reading? No. Was I giggling, pacing, whispering “this man” to myself and messaging the author? Absolutely.
This book felt like a reward for the Rafe girlies who stayed loyal. If you’ve been waiting for his story, trust me… it delivers. I would read 500 more pages of him brooding and making questionable decisions and being terrifyingly devoted.
A.K Macbride you knew exactly what you were doing and thank you.
RAFE DE LUCA SUPREMACY. No notes. No criticism. Just vibes and feral devotion.
February 5, 2026
I received a review copy and these are my thoughts:
A. K. MacBride delivers yet another sexy, spicy and romantic billionaire romance.
To escape an arranged marriage by his parents, Rafe enters one of convenience with Cecelia, when he finds his best friend’s sister-in-law dancing to pay off a debt. He forces her hand and she reluctantly agrees to this arrangement. The attraction between them had been there since they first met, but their personalities crashed - Rafe is a powerful, rich and arrogant man and Cecelia is a sweet, but determined woman. The tension between them only kept growing and when they see each other at their lowest, they find that they can provide a safe and caring space for their walls to come down.
What was supposed to be a temporary arrangement, might just be the best thing that has happened to both of them.
Rafe and Cece had incredible chemistry. Their initial animosity added fuel to their fire.
Cecelia come across as innocent but she was a fitting match for her husband who harboured a secret side - his voyeuristic tendencies did not put her off and she even played along. He in turn, was respectful of her boundaries.
Cece saw beyond Rafe’s carefully constructed walls and allowed him to be himself entirely, while he saw her beyond the failing dancer and hot mess she felt she was, acknowledging her potential. I loved their sweet and tender moments, when they were honest and open about their feelings, struggles and fears.
The pace was on point for these two and the rich and powerful world Rafe lived in.
I really enjoyed the friend group interactions, Rafe’s grandparents and Rafe’s house staff.
The tension from the stalker following Cece lingered throughout the whole book and once he struck, the scenes were intense and had me on edge.
[Spice: 2.5-3/5]
A. K. MacBride delivers yet another sexy, spicy and romantic billionaire romance.
To escape an arranged marriage by his parents, Rafe enters one of convenience with Cecelia, when he finds his best friend’s sister-in-law dancing to pay off a debt. He forces her hand and she reluctantly agrees to this arrangement. The attraction between them had been there since they first met, but their personalities crashed - Rafe is a powerful, rich and arrogant man and Cecelia is a sweet, but determined woman. The tension between them only kept growing and when they see each other at their lowest, they find that they can provide a safe and caring space for their walls to come down.
What was supposed to be a temporary arrangement, might just be the best thing that has happened to both of them.
Rafe and Cece had incredible chemistry. Their initial animosity added fuel to their fire.
Cecelia come across as innocent but she was a fitting match for her husband who harboured a secret side - his voyeuristic tendencies did not put her off and she even played along. He in turn, was respectful of her boundaries.
Cece saw beyond Rafe’s carefully constructed walls and allowed him to be himself entirely, while he saw her beyond the failing dancer and hot mess she felt she was, acknowledging her potential. I loved their sweet and tender moments, when they were honest and open about their feelings, struggles and fears.
The pace was on point for these two and the rich and powerful world Rafe lived in.
I really enjoyed the friend group interactions, Rafe’s grandparents and Rafe’s house staff.
The tension from the stalker following Cece lingered throughout the whole book and once he struck, the scenes were intense and had me on edge.
[Spice: 2.5-3/5]
February 16, 2026
Emotionally Charged!
What an emotionally charged story that I completely devoured! I have enjoyed all the books in this series, but this one? This one will be ingrained in my heart forever. Cecilia is a young woman who has been having a tough time making ends meet. To the point she makes a not so great decision. Never knowing that her “savior” would be Rafe. Someone she has known and lusted after from afar. When he makes her a deal that she can’t say no to, I couldn’t wait to read what would happen next. Their start off rough and rocky, but the underlying attraction is definitely there. As time goes on, things start to change and I rooted for them throughout the entire story. Their chemistry is so sizzling I thought my Kindle would catch on fire! And the lengths that Rafe will go to protect Cecelia melted my very heart and soul. This is one story you don’t want to miss out on! Brilliant!
What an emotionally charged story that I completely devoured! I have enjoyed all the books in this series, but this one? This one will be ingrained in my heart forever. Cecilia is a young woman who has been having a tough time making ends meet. To the point she makes a not so great decision. Never knowing that her “savior” would be Rafe. Someone she has known and lusted after from afar. When he makes her a deal that she can’t say no to, I couldn’t wait to read what would happen next. Their start off rough and rocky, but the underlying attraction is definitely there. As time goes on, things start to change and I rooted for them throughout the entire story. Their chemistry is so sizzling I thought my Kindle would catch on fire! And the lengths that Rafe will go to protect Cecelia melted my very heart and soul. This is one story you don’t want to miss out on! Brilliant!
Review of advance copy received from Author
The way I couldn’t put this one down! Rafe & Cece are everything. Rafe’s father is trying to push him into an arranged marriage for a business deal and Cece’s in financial trouble, hence their marriage of convenience…though Cece didn’t have many options when it came to Rafe’s proposal (and ooohhh does it hurt a bit–she definitely lets her feelings be known). Rafe’s a man who’s used to getting what he wants and just goes for it, and I loved that Cece pushed him to recognize his actions have consequences and that she wasn’t going to let him just get his way. I loved their chemistry, and I loved the sweet, vulnerable moments. We got to see a whole different side of Rafe, and I just wanted to hug the man. And can we talk about the twist I didn’t see coming?! Because I was on the edge of my seat!! Absolutely loved Rafe & Cece.
[ARC review]
[ARC review]
February 6, 2026
Book 4 of the Destined Vows series. Can be read as a standalone.
'I thought the most dangerous thing in my life was my father. I was wrong.
It’s her. It’s us. It’s the way she makes me want something I was never meant to have.
Something real.'
The characters drove the storyline and they were very compelling and complex and complicated and perfectly steamy together. Plot was intriguing and intense and well paced. World building continues to excel and impress. All in all a great addition to the series. Enjoyed immensely and highly recommend.
Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
'I thought the most dangerous thing in my life was my father. I was wrong.
It’s her. It’s us. It’s the way she makes me want something I was never meant to have.
Something real.'
The characters drove the storyline and they were very compelling and complex and complicated and perfectly steamy together. Plot was intriguing and intense and well paced. World building continues to excel and impress. All in all a great addition to the series. Enjoyed immensely and highly recommend.
Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
Another wonderful book in this series. Rafe is trying to take control of a forced situation, sees Cece in a club and decides she is the answer. I absolutely adore Rafe and thoroughly enjoyed watching him fight his feelings and desire for Cece every step of the way. He can only lie to himself for so long. This book is full of steam, banter and depth. Definitely a 4.5 star must read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 12, 2026
Great Read
I enjoyed Rafe and Cece's story a lot.
It had banter, suspense, steam, amazing found family, and we got to catch up with the rest of the crew!
I adored Rafe's grandparents, despised his parents, and deeply felt every moment where the piano or dance was used for refuge.
Most of all, I enjoyed that Cece helped Rafe to see where his priorities should lie, and mended some of his broken parts.
I enjoyed Rafe and Cece's story a lot.
It had banter, suspense, steam, amazing found family, and we got to catch up with the rest of the crew!
I adored Rafe's grandparents, despised his parents, and deeply felt every moment where the piano or dance was used for refuge.
Most of all, I enjoyed that Cece helped Rafe to see where his priorities should lie, and mended some of his broken parts.
February 7, 2026
anticlimatic..i've been expecting Rafael's story but nothing felt like the Rafael from previois books..just a manchild with daddy issuses.Did not like.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was the first book I'd read from this author, but I thoroughly enjoyed it and just need time to go read the others in this series now!
I loved seeing Rafe and Cece's relationship evolve over the course of the book, from a forced marriage/paying back a debt to actual feelings. My favourite parts were the scenes in the music room. They added depth and more emotion to the story. Those moments were sweet.
Enjoyed this!
I loved seeing Rafe and Cece's relationship evolve over the course of the book, from a forced marriage/paying back a debt to actual feelings. My favourite parts were the scenes in the music room. They added depth and more emotion to the story. Those moments were sweet.
Enjoyed this!
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews