The Devil We Crave Jagger Cole
The Devil We Crave
Jagger Cole
There is something about a novel where you’re going through the young adults experiences in their twenties. It brings a certain nostalgia to me. While the experiences are obviously far from the same, I think it helps the reader to connect to the characters with their inner young adult, which is why I believe novels written with college romance stories are so popular. I believe it’s also a way to live vicariously.
Yelena is our mafia princess in attendance at the mafia college of Kingsblood University. She is so well written that she feels like a regular young adult out in the world. She’s in that timeframe where she’s become a legal adult, but not really quite an adult yet. She’s trying to find her place in the world, how that applies to her both personally, within her family and within the politics of the mafia world. She’s also heartbreakingly beautiful in her trauma. We also get to watch her both explore and begin accepting who she is within her own sexuality.
Achilles, on the other hand already knows his place, as the future heir to the mafia “king”. He gives Yelena the space to be herself, in all ways. He is her safety, her protector, her passion, her everything. I loved watching their relationship bloom and grow.
There are some really funny parts within the book, driven by the relationships our main characters have with their friends and family. Aside from the mafia aspect, these families are what I would say is a pretty typical family. The pacing is so well done. The world building and character development are both intertwined beautifully. If you like mafia romance this is a great one to read.
Reading 'The Devil We Crave' reminded me of how powerful well-crafted characters can be, especially when set within an intense yet relatable backdrop like a mafia college. The way Jagger Cole brings Yelena to life—as a young woman navigating adulthood, family loyalty, and self-discovery—feels authentic and deeply personal. I found myself empathizing with her struggles to fit in while balancing the high stakes of mafia politics. What really stood out to me was the dynamic between Yelena and Achilles. Achilles, as the future mafia king, breaks the usual stereotype of a controlling heir by allowing Yelena to express her true self. Their relationship develops naturally, filled with moments of passion, security, and mutual respect, which is refreshing to read in the often dramatic genre of mafia romance. The university setting of Kingsblood University offers a unique twist, blending the coming-of-age college experiences with the dark, thrilling world of mafia families. This duality enriches the story, making it engaging on multiple levels—from humorous interactions with friends and family to the more serious undertones of trauma and self-acceptance. Additionally, the novel's pacing keeps you hooked, and the detailed world-building creates an immersive experience. The depiction of Yelena’s exploration of her sexuality adds a layer of depth and relatability, making the narrative inclusive and emotionally resonant. For anyone who enjoys romance novels that are more than just love stories—ones that explore identity, power, and the complexity of family ties—'The Devil We Crave' is an excellent choice. It’s a book that lets you feel the nostalgia of young adulthood while delivering the suspense and emotion of a mafia thriller.