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Empire of Sinners #1
Ruthless Sinner
We were off-limits to each other right from the start…
I’m the governor’s daughter and he’s a mafia boss in the Bratva.
It was a no-brainer.
I was forbidden to him and him to me.
But when we met at his nightclub, I thought he was my prince charming.
I couldn’t fight my attraction to the tattooed Russian god, any more than he could for me.
Dante Levitsky is tall, dark and dangerously handsome with Mediterranean blue eyes you could swim in forever.
Our chemistry is the type people read about and wish for their whole lives.
After the accident a year ago that nearly stole my life, he felt like my second chance at living.
Saying no to a secret relationship when he asked me felt like losing a limb.
So, I agreed, thinking it was the best idea ever.
Until it wasn’t. And I find out he lied.
Then his dark secrets slapped me in the face.
Secrets and plans for retribution against my father that will turn my world upside down.
I wasn’t supposed to fall for the villain.
But at the time I didn’t know he was my enemy.
Or that I would become his new obsession.
He’s the monster I never saw coming and he plans to take everything.
Including me.
Ruthless Sinner is a dark mafia forbidden romance. It is book 1 of the Empire of Sinners series. It is inspired by Romeo and Juliet.
This book is a 110K word standalone romance that contains dark themes, dubious situations, mature content, and graphic violence some readers might find offensive and/or triggering.
I’m the governor’s daughter and he’s a mafia boss in the Bratva.
It was a no-brainer.
I was forbidden to him and him to me.
But when we met at his nightclub, I thought he was my prince charming.
I couldn’t fight my attraction to the tattooed Russian god, any more than he could for me.
Dante Levitsky is tall, dark and dangerously handsome with Mediterranean blue eyes you could swim in forever.
Our chemistry is the type people read about and wish for their whole lives.
After the accident a year ago that nearly stole my life, he felt like my second chance at living.
Saying no to a secret relationship when he asked me felt like losing a limb.
So, I agreed, thinking it was the best idea ever.
Until it wasn’t. And I find out he lied.
Then his dark secrets slapped me in the face.
Secrets and plans for retribution against my father that will turn my world upside down.
I wasn’t supposed to fall for the villain.
But at the time I didn’t know he was my enemy.
Or that I would become his new obsession.
He’s the monster I never saw coming and he plans to take everything.
Including me.
Ruthless Sinner is a dark mafia forbidden romance. It is book 1 of the Empire of Sinners series. It is inspired by Romeo and Juliet.
This book is a 110K word standalone romance that contains dark themes, dubious situations, mature content, and graphic violence some readers might find offensive and/or triggering.
452 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 12, 2023
874 people are currently reading
1548 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 145 reviews
July 26, 2023
3.5 ⭐
this is a good bratva romance, i liked the plot, twists, lies, and betrayals involve in the story. although it was mentioned in the beginning that it has some dark themes, i'm still not prepared for some of it. but character wise, i think they are so-so. there's no relationship build up but the sexual tension is there. all they ever had is physical connection and sometimes i'm okay with that but idk it didn't appeal to me this time.
background on mcs:
dante (30)
- is a bratva boss and second in command. but he was locked away for a year after being setup. and now he's finally free he's hell bent on punishing the man responsible for his jail time, and that's the governor. he found out everything about him and all of his potential weaknesses, mainly his daughter, serenity. he saw serenity's photo and got intrigued by her beauty. so the day after he was released, he went to the club he owns with his best friend to check out serenity and it was instant attraction and insta-lust for him.
- his mother was killed in front of him when he was fourteen and his eight year old sister was raped and killed that same night. his father was also killed but it was years after his mom and sister's death.
- he owns multiple clubs and he has one sex club. it was mentioned that's where he bring back to life his fantasies, and he owned a room in there. he is also a dom and into voyeurism. so idk how to feel about this.
serenity (22)
- is the governor's daughter and she had an accident a year before that killed her best friend. she blamed herself for it cuz she was the one driving that time and her friend forgot to put her seatbelt, hence the reason she died on collision. but after a year of mourning and therapy she finally got back on her feet and is now working in an art gallery.
- her mother died when she was young and her father got remarried to a witch and her stepsister is also the same. her relationship with her father is strained but she still cares and loves him just as the same. though sometimes they don't see things eye to eye, she still values her father and wanted to appease him as much as she can. so when her father wanted her to marry someone that is suitable for his reputation. she didn't like it but still agreed to go on dates to spend time with the guy, but the guy was a grade-a asshole.
-----------------------------
so the night they met insta-lust was on point, but nothing happened between them not until up to 43% of the book. there's a lot of pushing on dante's side and serenity did all the pursuing in the first half. to say i got second hand embarrassment from her is an understatement. she comes off as clingy, pathetic, and desperate trying to get his attention.
though the attraction is mutual, dante is still trying to be level headed because he has plans for her father and serenity is a distraction he doesn't need. but then again his lust overtaken his critical thinking and he decided to stalk her. idk what it is but some strange connection between them is so palpable and serenity knew that dante is watching over her. so she did her best to seduce him whenever she feels that he's watching her.
let's just say that they both had enough and snapped then gave in to their hormones, and all they ever did is go at it like bunnies. like i said it was pure physical connection. they rarely converse and i don't even know how they fall in love with each other, but they did so there's that.
i also feel like everything was thrown in the last 10% of the book, the plot twists, action, and suspense. i honestly think this book could've been 100 pages shorter. it was very anticlimactic to know the real villain in the story. i kind of guessed the person right off at the bat. his demise is so quick and i actually hoped for a little pain, but nah, he was dead instantly. and the resolutions for the other concerns in the story were wrapped up immediately and felt rushed.
anyway, this is still an okay read and i still enjoyed most of it.
safety warnings:
- no cheating / owd / 3rd act breakup
- om (her father planned to have her married to the om, they went on a few dates but she hated every minute of it and the om is a douchebag)
- death of a loved one
- murder (off and on page)
- child sexual assault (off page)
- HEA (they got married)
-----------------------------
Note for the second book: (Virgo and Olivia's story)
- second chance romance
- olivia saw her friend naked and kissing virgo, and thought he's cheating on her. he didn't refute her accusations and used this as an excuse to break up with her. because his asshole father is blackmailing him and told him to get rid of olivia
- they broke up and a day after, olivia and her mom went missing
- she's been missing for two years and he's looking for her, not actively but he has people who report to him whenever they think they found a lead
- idk if he's celibate during those two years, but there's a scene in this book where he's flirting with a bartender and he told her "maybe later, though". sooooo what does that mean??
- at the end of the book, he found out that olivia is alive and she has an amnesia.
- he told dante his plan and his exact line is "I'm flying out to get her back. Whether she remembers me or not, she's still my girl" sure whatever you say 🙄
this is a good bratva romance, i liked the plot, twists, lies, and betrayals involve in the story. although it was mentioned in the beginning that it has some dark themes, i'm still not prepared for some of it. but character wise, i think they are so-so. there's no relationship build up but the sexual tension is there. all they ever had is physical connection and sometimes i'm okay with that but idk it didn't appeal to me this time.
background on mcs:
dante (30)
- is a bratva boss and second in command. but he was locked away for a year after being setup. and now he's finally free he's hell bent on punishing the man responsible for his jail time, and that's the governor. he found out everything about him and all of his potential weaknesses, mainly his daughter, serenity. he saw serenity's photo and got intrigued by her beauty. so the day after he was released, he went to the club he owns with his best friend to check out serenity and it was instant attraction and insta-lust for him.
- his mother was killed in front of him when he was fourteen and his eight year old sister was raped and killed that same night. his father was also killed but it was years after his mom and sister's death.
- he owns multiple clubs and he has one sex club. it was mentioned that's where he bring back to life his fantasies, and he owned a room in there. he is also a dom and into voyeurism. so idk how to feel about this.
serenity (22)
- is the governor's daughter and she had an accident a year before that killed her best friend. she blamed herself for it cuz she was the one driving that time and her friend forgot to put her seatbelt, hence the reason she died on collision. but after a year of mourning and therapy she finally got back on her feet and is now working in an art gallery.
- her mother died when she was young and her father got remarried to a witch and her stepsister is also the same. her relationship with her father is strained but she still cares and loves him just as the same. though sometimes they don't see things eye to eye, she still values her father and wanted to appease him as much as she can. so when her father wanted her to marry someone that is suitable for his reputation. she didn't like it but still agreed to go on dates to spend time with the guy, but the guy was a grade-a asshole.
-----------------------------
so the night they met insta-lust was on point, but nothing happened between them not until up to 43% of the book. there's a lot of pushing on dante's side and serenity did all the pursuing in the first half. to say i got second hand embarrassment from her is an understatement. she comes off as clingy, pathetic, and desperate trying to get his attention.
though the attraction is mutual, dante is still trying to be level headed because he has plans for her father and serenity is a distraction he doesn't need. but then again his lust overtaken his critical thinking and he decided to stalk her. idk what it is but some strange connection between them is so palpable and serenity knew that dante is watching over her. so she did her best to seduce him whenever she feels that he's watching her.
let's just say that they both had enough and snapped then gave in to their hormones, and all they ever did is go at it like bunnies. like i said it was pure physical connection. they rarely converse and i don't even know how they fall in love with each other, but they did so there's that.
i also feel like everything was thrown in the last 10% of the book, the plot twists, action, and suspense. i honestly think this book could've been 100 pages shorter. it was very anticlimactic to know the real villain in the story. i kind of guessed the person right off at the bat. his demise is so quick and i actually hoped for a little pain, but nah, he was dead instantly. and the resolutions for the other concerns in the story were wrapped up immediately and felt rushed.
anyway, this is still an okay read and i still enjoyed most of it.
safety warnings:
- no cheating / owd / 3rd act breakup
- om (her father planned to have her married to the om, they went on a few dates but she hated every minute of it and the om is a douchebag)
- death of a loved one
- murder (off and on page)
- child sexual assault (off page)
- HEA (they got married)
-----------------------------
Note for the second book: (Virgo and Olivia's story)
- second chance romance
- olivia saw her friend naked and kissing virgo, and thought he's cheating on her. he didn't refute her accusations and used this as an excuse to break up with her. because his asshole father is blackmailing him and told him to get rid of olivia
- they broke up and a day after, olivia and her mom went missing
- she's been missing for two years and he's looking for her, not actively but he has people who report to him whenever they think they found a lead
- idk if he's celibate during those two years, but there's a scene in this book where he's flirting with a bartender and he told her "maybe later, though". sooooo what does that mean??
- at the end of the book, he found out that olivia is alive and she has an amnesia.
- he told dante his plan and his exact line is "I'm flying out to get her back. Whether she remembers me or not, she's still my girl" sure whatever you say 🙄
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 25, 2023
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Trope: forbidden Romeo/Juliet
Angst: 😱😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
You can always count on Faith Summers to provide books that are both plot and character driven and she never lets me down. Ruthless Sinner is the first book in the Empire of Sinners series and it definitely gets the series off on great footing, laying the seeds for the rest of the series. Serenity world tips on its axis the night she meets a tattooed stranger at a night club. She doesn't know it, but Dante Levistsky, second in command to the Bratva in Boston, has been keeping his eye on her. Dante has just been released from prison after being framed by Serenity's father, who is now the governor of Massachusetts and he's looking to use Serenity to get back at her father. He doesn't foresee falling into his own trap and falling in love with the young artist.
Absolutely loved it! Super fast paced storyline that had tons of action, secrets to be uncovered, and twists that will shake you. I thought that Dante and Serenity had some seriously hot chemistry. Dante tried to stay away with everything he had in them, but the pull between them was too great - and you really felt that as a reader. The smexy times were SUPER hot with a bit of BDSM, but not too over the top. I'm super excited for Virgo's book next (Dante's best friend) and it looks like it's going to be an "amnesia" trope **rubs hands together evilly** Can't fracking wait!
⛔️ My bookshelves can sometimes be spoilers
Trope: forbidden Romeo/Juliet
Angst: 😱😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
You can always count on Faith Summers to provide books that are both plot and character driven and she never lets me down. Ruthless Sinner is the first book in the Empire of Sinners series and it definitely gets the series off on great footing, laying the seeds for the rest of the series. Serenity world tips on its axis the night she meets a tattooed stranger at a night club. She doesn't know it, but Dante Levistsky, second in command to the Bratva in Boston, has been keeping his eye on her. Dante has just been released from prison after being framed by Serenity's father, who is now the governor of Massachusetts and he's looking to use Serenity to get back at her father. He doesn't foresee falling into his own trap and falling in love with the young artist.
Absolutely loved it! Super fast paced storyline that had tons of action, secrets to be uncovered, and twists that will shake you. I thought that Dante and Serenity had some seriously hot chemistry. Dante tried to stay away with everything he had in them, but the pull between them was too great - and you really felt that as a reader. The smexy times were SUPER hot with a bit of BDSM, but not too over the top. I'm super excited for Virgo's book next (Dante's best friend) and it looks like it's going to be an "amnesia" trope **rubs hands together evilly** Can't fracking wait!
⛔️ My bookshelves can sometimes be spoilers
June 2, 2023
So I loved the whole Romeo and Juliet vibe of this book! The two main characters come from different worlds but that doesn't stop them from having an explosive connection with each other. Dante is second in command and out for revenge on Serenity's father for wrecking his life. He is only seeing ways to hurt him for what he does. Being around Serenity and the sneaking around makes him realize that maybe that isn't the answer after all. Serenity is the Governer's daughter.. She's not had the best life growing up. Her dad isn't the most loving or caring person. He only has one thing on his mind and that's making sure his daughter is married to the right person. He has done some very bad things in his life though. Serenity is the good girl but wants the bad guy.
Her and Dante's romance is one of secret, deceit and passion. I loved how action packed this book was and how Serenity wasn't afraid to push some buttons and stand up for herself. So many times, the female just gives up and doesn't try to make a difference but that wasn't Serenity. She mad sure Dante knew who she was and what she wanted to happen with her father. This book was so so good and entertaining until the very end!!
Her and Dante's romance is one of secret, deceit and passion. I loved how action packed this book was and how Serenity wasn't afraid to push some buttons and stand up for herself. So many times, the female just gives up and doesn't try to make a difference but that wasn't Serenity. She mad sure Dante knew who she was and what she wanted to happen with her father. This book was so so good and entertaining until the very end!!
December 1, 2024
5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
3.5/5 🌶️🌶️🌶️
If you loved the story of Romeo and Juliet but wanted an HEA—this is exactly where you need to go! I loved this retelling in a dark mafia romance setting! Enjoyed the good girl x bad boy vibes and their forbidden love! It was the perfect balance of mafia plot with super steamy love story!
3.5/5 🌶️🌶️🌶️
If you loved the story of Romeo and Juliet but wanted an HEA—this is exactly where you need to go! I loved this retelling in a dark mafia romance setting! Enjoyed the good girl x bad boy vibes and their forbidden love! It was the perfect balance of mafia plot with super steamy love story!
dnf
June 28, 2023DNF 20%. Just a little bored and couldn’t get into it.
April 7, 2025
5 Printsessa stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
3.5🌶
Fiica guvernatorului statal și un șef în Bratva..ce poate sa iasă rău din combinația asta?
Cam tot..!!!
Multe secrete, la fel de multe minciuni,pe fundal o mama și o sora vitrega demne de povestea Cenușăresei, iar piesa centrală o chimie și o conexiune atat de intensa între Serenity și Dante!!!
Happy-end garantat!🦋
3.5🌶
Fiica guvernatorului statal și un șef în Bratva..ce poate sa iasă rău din combinația asta?
Cam tot..!!!
Multe secrete, la fel de multe minciuni,pe fundal o mama și o sora vitrega demne de povestea Cenușăresei, iar piesa centrală o chimie și o conexiune atat de intensa între Serenity și Dante!!!
Happy-end garantat!🦋
May 27, 2023
ALL MY REVIEWS CAN BE FOUND ON MY BLOG: ABSTRACT BOOKS
Star Rating : 4 / 5 Stars
POV : Dual
Cliffhanger : Yes
Hero : Dante
Heroine : Serenity
Pace of the story : Moderate
Angst Rating : 6/10
Heat Rating : 6/10
Triggers Involved : Past Trauma , betrayal
Plot Summary :
Serenity's life changes when she meets a gorgeous stranger in a club. He is the one person she should stay away from as everything about him screams danger. From his tattoos to his huge build , he is clearly not some ordinary man. But she has no power to say no. Not when he proposes a secret relationship. She needs this in her life. He feels like her second chance at living after her accident and she was going to take it.
Dante's whole life changed when he was sent to prison. But now he was back to find out who sent him and how. And his Target was the pretty daughter of his enemy. She thinks they are strangers. She could not be more wrong. He was going to ruin her before this was done and over with.
Overall Opinion :
If there is one thing I am addicted to by this author, it is her mafia Romances. The chemistry is unmatched and the plot twists always take me by surprise!! I love the steam as well and never feel that something is missing in her books.
This one was a similar read for me . The genres are all good and the blurb hooked me in from the very first read so I picked this one up as soon as it landed on my Kindle. Dante is an absolute delight and I can't wait for more.
Definitely recommending this one to all the dark romance loving people out there !
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March 7, 2025
3.25⭐️
- a little too long
- started off pretty good but the pacing was off
- last 10-15% felt rushed
- a bit predictable but still interesting enough to read
- characters felt kinda surface level, not very fleshed out
- romance was mostly physical, needed more emotional depth
- the romeo/juliet theme was interesting at first but then got sort of cringey honestly
- a little too long
- started off pretty good but the pacing was off
- last 10-15% felt rushed
- a bit predictable but still interesting enough to read
- characters felt kinda surface level, not very fleshed out
- romance was mostly physical, needed more emotional depth
- the romeo/juliet theme was interesting at first but then got sort of cringey honestly
May 23, 2023
Enak dibaca seperti biasa, gak dark dan gak dubcon.. trs mafia tapi gak yg dark gitu, lebih ke romance biasa dgn background keluarga mafia.. itu aja sih XD
May 22, 2023
KC Rating: 4🍁 | 1.5🌶️
This was a great story, that i enjoyed! The whole revenge plot, insta-lust and just everything in-between! The mix of plot and spice was great as well. I did have some issues with some plot lines, and you can read about those in the rant/spoiler section.
The story follows Dante on his quest to uncover why the governor Bell set him up so he would go to prison. Honestly, somewhere in the middle i had my answer, but once the truth was uncovered it was still shocking! His instant chemistry with Serenity was absolute delight, and him trying not to act on his infatuation with her was fun to read about! I enjoyed Serenity, she was a great character, and her trauma and guilt were the foundation of her further character development.
Governor Bell or Jason, was a character that even now i couldn’t fully understand! The man did so many contradictory things that he had my brain fried. And even at the end of the book, i’m still not sure how i feel about him! Probably all the things he did during the book are still on my mind especially him setting up Serenity with Matthew, like why???
Overall this was a great book, that was full of emotional rollercoasters, suspense, and spice!
Rant/spoiler section
First of all, why didn’t the marriage cross either Dante’s or Serenity’s mind to give a big f*ck you to Jason? Like that was so obvious! And would have been so much fun!
How bad of technology does Dante’s mafia have that Serenity was able to read the preview of the message? Like that phone was definitely not secure for a phone of a mob boss. I get it, it was necessary for the plot, but come on, it’s 2023, all phones are either on fingerprint of face ID, and previews cannot be seen without either!
This was a great story, that i enjoyed! The whole revenge plot, insta-lust and just everything in-between! The mix of plot and spice was great as well. I did have some issues with some plot lines, and you can read about those in the rant/spoiler section.
The story follows Dante on his quest to uncover why the governor Bell set him up so he would go to prison. Honestly, somewhere in the middle i had my answer, but once the truth was uncovered it was still shocking! His instant chemistry with Serenity was absolute delight, and him trying not to act on his infatuation with her was fun to read about! I enjoyed Serenity, she was a great character, and her trauma and guilt were the foundation of her further character development.
Governor Bell or Jason, was a character that even now i couldn’t fully understand! The man did so many contradictory things that he had my brain fried. And even at the end of the book, i’m still not sure how i feel about him! Probably all the things he did during the book are still on my mind especially him setting up Serenity with Matthew, like why???
Overall this was a great book, that was full of emotional rollercoasters, suspense, and spice!
Rant/spoiler section
First of all, why didn’t the marriage cross either Dante’s or Serenity’s mind to give a big f*ck you to Jason? Like that was so obvious! And would have been so much fun!
How bad of technology does Dante’s mafia have that Serenity was able to read the preview of the message? Like that phone was definitely not secure for a phone of a mob boss. I get it, it was necessary for the plot, but come on, it’s 2023, all phones are either on fingerprint of face ID, and previews cannot be seen without either!
May 24, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
✨Dark Romance
✨Mafia
✨Forbidden Romance
✨Romeo & Juliet Inspired
•Dual POV
•Standalone
This book was SO GOOD! It was a book inspired by Romeo & Juliet with all the spice! 🥵🔥
Serenity is the governors daughter and finds herself attracted to Dante. Dante is apart of the Russian Mafia and just got out of prison.
Dante hates Serenity’s father because he has reason to believe he had him set-up to go to prisoner. Even knowing this, he can’t help his feelings for Serenity.
Dante tried to push her away, but he can’t bring himself too. They have this connection and pull towards one another that can’t be described.
But, what happens when Serenity learns about Dante’s motives towards her father?
This book was just so good. I loved the story line so much. Dante had the perfect bad boy image down pat, even with all his tattoos. Together they were the perfect forbidden romance come to life. ❤️🔥
Favorite Quote:
“YA khochu sokhranit' tebya navsegda.”
🌶️🌶️🌶️
✨Dark Romance
✨Mafia
✨Forbidden Romance
✨Romeo & Juliet Inspired
•Dual POV
•Standalone
This book was SO GOOD! It was a book inspired by Romeo & Juliet with all the spice! 🥵🔥
Serenity is the governors daughter and finds herself attracted to Dante. Dante is apart of the Russian Mafia and just got out of prison.
Dante hates Serenity’s father because he has reason to believe he had him set-up to go to prisoner. Even knowing this, he can’t help his feelings for Serenity.
Dante tried to push her away, but he can’t bring himself too. They have this connection and pull towards one another that can’t be described.
But, what happens when Serenity learns about Dante’s motives towards her father?
This book was just so good. I loved the story line so much. Dante had the perfect bad boy image down pat, even with all his tattoos. Together they were the perfect forbidden romance come to life. ❤️🔥
Favorite Quote:
“YA khochu sokhranit' tebya navsegda.”
May 24, 2023
Oh man!! We coming out the gate hot with this one and I am here for it!! First off I FLove Faith Summers/Khardine Gray if you are looking for dark romance mafia vibes with all the thangs then this baby right here is for you! This is book 1 in a brand new series and I already cannot wait to get my greedy hands on the next book In The series. Dante and Serenity are freaking everything!! Dante is ruthless and OTT he’s protective and possessive. The emotional roller coaster ride this author takes you on is not for the faint at heart. The twists and turns the secrets the lies and betrayal are all out in full force. Prepare yourself to have your heart shattered and then put back together only to break all over again. But nothing that is worth a d*mn isn’t fought hard for and these two definitely had to fight hard for their epic love story!! Brilliant!! Loved every word!
June 8, 2023
The start of the Empire of Sinners series so hang on and double check that you are buckled up, dangerous men, alpha’s personified, possessive, oh, gorgeous, brooding all the makings of a story consisting with three D’s (dark, delicious, and dirty) 😊. There will be suspense, betrayal, death, darkness, secrets reveled, violence, hope, forgiveness, and maybe even love (ALL THINGS TO EXPECT FROM THE MAFIA WORLD). By the time you’ve figured out who is who and what is what, you’re already hooked, and you may as well give up the fight and prepare yourself for an all-nighter! CAN’T SAY YOU WEREN’T WARNED!!!!! Two different worlds collide and bam we have these two. Dante sexy as all get out second in command with revenge on his mind for the man who ruined his life, ruthless every day, deadly on a good day ….oh who am I kidding deadly every day 😊extremely charming when needed but that charm can turn on a dime and he has the daughter of the man in his sights. Serenity is sweet on most days, has the ability to see goodness in others the daughter of the Governor despite the pictures he paints for the public eye it is nothing like that at home she sees her father for who is really is not a very nice man and currently trying to make his daughter marry the man of his choosing but she just wants the freedom to choose for herself. The moment they meet the attraction is intense he is the bad boy and the right one to help her with her father but the interaction between them is off the charts and the pull between them can’t be ignored no matter how hard they try but be prepared to scream at the certain parts of the book, or yelling at some of the characters but will they get to be together, will her father force her to marry his choice or do she see the true colors of her father, will he get the revenge he is after, and can they carve their own happiness somewhere on their wild ride?.
May 21, 2023
ARC Review of Ruthless Sinner by Khardine Gray
* * * * *
A forbidden romance sparks between a Bratva commander and the beautiful daughter of a govenor. It was only meant to be a little bit of fun, part of a larger revenge plan.
But what happens when it becomes real?
Dante has a plan.
The govenor's days were numbered, but he decided he was going to enjoy himself first when his eyes land on sweet Serenity on the dance floor. She was beautiful, and dancing only for him. However, things don't go according to plan when she starts coming to him...and he wants her to.
He shouldn't be craving her this much. He should not be this afflicted.
Dante wants his little princess.
Even when he knows it will probably land him in deep trouble.
Serenity is facing troubles at the moment.
After a hard year due to the death of her best friend, she's now facing a new challenge: her father wants her to get married and has already found a man for her. All she can think about, however, is the tattooed hunk who saved her life.
She knows he is trouble. She knows they would never be allowed together.
Serenity wants her happiness...and Dante is part of that.
Fantastic read. I was wondering if this was going to continue into the second book, however, it surprisingly ended in this one and we are left with a taste for what is to happen next and I am excited. Love the bubbling slowburning obsession Dante begins to have with Serenity, and the connection that is made when she knows he is around and watching her.
The plot carrying more secrets than originally thought also spices up the read a bit more and you are left with wondering how this couple will handle what is next. You have you snobbish family members, the quirky besties, arrogant jerks who think they are all hot sh*t. No matter what, you are still drawn to the simmering romance between Dante and Serenity.
* * * * *
A forbidden romance sparks between a Bratva commander and the beautiful daughter of a govenor. It was only meant to be a little bit of fun, part of a larger revenge plan.
But what happens when it becomes real?
Dante has a plan.
The govenor's days were numbered, but he decided he was going to enjoy himself first when his eyes land on sweet Serenity on the dance floor. She was beautiful, and dancing only for him. However, things don't go according to plan when she starts coming to him...and he wants her to.
He shouldn't be craving her this much. He should not be this afflicted.
Dante wants his little princess.
Even when he knows it will probably land him in deep trouble.
Serenity is facing troubles at the moment.
After a hard year due to the death of her best friend, she's now facing a new challenge: her father wants her to get married and has already found a man for her. All she can think about, however, is the tattooed hunk who saved her life.
She knows he is trouble. She knows they would never be allowed together.
Serenity wants her happiness...and Dante is part of that.
Fantastic read. I was wondering if this was going to continue into the second book, however, it surprisingly ended in this one and we are left with a taste for what is to happen next and I am excited. Love the bubbling slowburning obsession Dante begins to have with Serenity, and the connection that is made when she knows he is around and watching her.
The plot carrying more secrets than originally thought also spices up the read a bit more and you are left with wondering how this couple will handle what is next. You have you snobbish family members, the quirky besties, arrogant jerks who think they are all hot sh*t. No matter what, you are still drawn to the simmering romance between Dante and Serenity.
June 8, 2023
I really enjoyed this book. I feel like it had me on the edge of my seat from the first page. I’m always anxious with these books trying to figure out the bad guy disguised as a good guy and I’ll say I didn’t guess it correctly this time, so that’s good!
I loved the characters. Their chemistry was fuego!!
Dante was such a great MMC. It was basically love at first sight for him even though he tried to fight it a few times. He was so sweet to Serenity, way sweeter than I expected but he could be bossy too. He really was all about her though, possessive and obsessive. My favorite kind.
Serenity was really sweet. I loved her character but sometimes she was too sweet. I wanted her to stick up for herself just a wee bit more. Especially where her awful family is concerned.
The only thing that didn’t work for me was the whole D/s thing at his sex club. I thought the whole thing was super random. Sure they had talked about him owning the club but never even had a convo about anything like that. It felt kind of thrown in there and I could have done without that.
The rest of the book was so good though that I can overlook that and still give it 5 stars. I can’t wait for Virgo and Olivia.
NO CHEATING
NO OW DRAMA
LIGHT OM DRAMA (but not like THAT)
I loved the characters. Their chemistry was fuego!!
Dante was such a great MMC. It was basically love at first sight for him even though he tried to fight it a few times. He was so sweet to Serenity, way sweeter than I expected but he could be bossy too. He really was all about her though, possessive and obsessive. My favorite kind.
Serenity was really sweet. I loved her character but sometimes she was too sweet. I wanted her to stick up for herself just a wee bit more. Especially where her awful family is concerned.
The only thing that didn’t work for me was the whole D/s thing at his sex club. I thought the whole thing was super random. Sure they had talked about him owning the club but never even had a convo about anything like that. It felt kind of thrown in there and I could have done without that.
The rest of the book was so good though that I can overlook that and still give it 5 stars. I can’t wait for Virgo and Olivia.
NO CHEATING
NO OW DRAMA
LIGHT OM DRAMA (but not like THAT)
February 19, 2024
In the beginning i was liking the story,but later they just made it the typical mafia book plot !!
and literally the FMC's favorite word was Yes. for anything and everything Dante (MMC) asked Serenity(FMC) was like yes !! I was getting boring and boring !!! the ending was though good but then a good epilogue was given.
i am still i am looking forward for Virgo and Olivia's book !! ahh i wish its better
and literally the FMC's favorite word was Yes. for anything and everything Dante (MMC) asked Serenity(FMC) was like yes !! I was getting boring and boring !!! the ending was though good but then a good epilogue was given.
i am still i am looking forward for Virgo and Olivia's book !! ahh i wish its better
October 21, 2024
the writing style is a no-go for me it’s like i’m writing my essay for high school… the words are not connecting…
June 20, 2023
Ruthless Sinner is a dark mafia forbidden romance. It is book 1 of the Empire of Sinners series. It is inspired by Romeo and Juliet. It full-length standalone novel with no cheating or cliffhanger and complete with a HEA. A smartly crafted story with extraordinary characters and storyline driven by revenge that captures your attention from the start and keeps you hooked and on your edge of your seat with it's nail biting suspense and twists and turns that will keep you guessing until the end. This is Dante and Serenity story. It contains dark themes, dubious situations, and graphic violence some readers might find offensive and triggering. It's twisted, thrilling, gripping and fast paced. Serenity Bell is twenty-two years old and also the youngest daughter to the Governor of Massachusetts Jason Bell.
She recently finished college and is on the verge of starting her artistic career. Her dad is controlling and power hunger. Therefore he expects her to someone in politics and law who can boost his career. She have always a good girl and is looking for an escape so her best friend Harper talked her into going Club X with her before she leaves for her new job and before Serenity starts her internship at L'Extrodinaire Exquisit Live Art Show. She noticed that she caught eyes of a very handsome man with Is mediterranean eyes watching her on the balcony, it was Dante Levitsky the owner of Club X. Dante is thirty years old billionaire Bratva boss who was recently release from prison after doing eight years for crime he didn't commit. He's second in command to Pakhan and also the Creed Alliance. He has endured many trials and tribulations and afflictions with his the death of sister and mother at very young age then the murder of his dad while he was in prison. He wanted revenge against the who setup him.
She too had suffered some trauma in her life with her recent brush with death after she walk away from a car accident with a couple of broken bones that took the life of one of her friend. She just started to feel good again when she feels like she's been watched. She spends the night dancing but when she was leaving a drunk accost her and Dante saved her. It was lust at first sight and although Dante found out that Jason Bell setup him he was sure drawn to her. He was tatted, broken, gorgeous, ruthless, possessive, and protective. Serenity was beautiful, kind-hearted, sweet, and talented. He told her that they have to meet in secret and they embark on secret relationship. Serenity continues to defy her father and discover that he's not the man who he portray himself to be and has a lot of dirty dark secrets that he's hiding.
The story is filled in violence, hatred, secrets, lies, deception, betrayal, enemies, suspense, drama, danger, mystery, anger, mayhem, grief, attack, twists and turns, revelations, revenge, friendships, tragedies, action packed, angst, emotions, tension, push and pull, doubt, pawn, BDSM, dominance, submission, dark mafia romance, forbidden relationship, death, losses, surprises, opposite attracts romance, insta-lust, rough intense sex, pleasure and pain, power and control, verbal, emotional and mental abuse, survival, acceptance, resentment, dysfunctional families, power exchange, power play, and love.
I received an advanced copy of this book via Cherrylily ARC and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
She recently finished college and is on the verge of starting her artistic career. Her dad is controlling and power hunger. Therefore he expects her to someone in politics and law who can boost his career. She have always a good girl and is looking for an escape so her best friend Harper talked her into going Club X with her before she leaves for her new job and before Serenity starts her internship at L'Extrodinaire Exquisit Live Art Show. She noticed that she caught eyes of a very handsome man with Is mediterranean eyes watching her on the balcony, it was Dante Levitsky the owner of Club X. Dante is thirty years old billionaire Bratva boss who was recently release from prison after doing eight years for crime he didn't commit. He's second in command to Pakhan and also the Creed Alliance. He has endured many trials and tribulations and afflictions with his the death of sister and mother at very young age then the murder of his dad while he was in prison. He wanted revenge against the who setup him.
She too had suffered some trauma in her life with her recent brush with death after she walk away from a car accident with a couple of broken bones that took the life of one of her friend. She just started to feel good again when she feels like she's been watched. She spends the night dancing but when she was leaving a drunk accost her and Dante saved her. It was lust at first sight and although Dante found out that Jason Bell setup him he was sure drawn to her. He was tatted, broken, gorgeous, ruthless, possessive, and protective. Serenity was beautiful, kind-hearted, sweet, and talented. He told her that they have to meet in secret and they embark on secret relationship. Serenity continues to defy her father and discover that he's not the man who he portray himself to be and has a lot of dirty dark secrets that he's hiding.
The story is filled in violence, hatred, secrets, lies, deception, betrayal, enemies, suspense, drama, danger, mystery, anger, mayhem, grief, attack, twists and turns, revelations, revenge, friendships, tragedies, action packed, angst, emotions, tension, push and pull, doubt, pawn, BDSM, dominance, submission, dark mafia romance, forbidden relationship, death, losses, surprises, opposite attracts romance, insta-lust, rough intense sex, pleasure and pain, power and control, verbal, emotional and mental abuse, survival, acceptance, resentment, dysfunctional families, power exchange, power play, and love.
I received an advanced copy of this book via Cherrylily ARC and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 5, 2023
RUTHLESS SINNER is the first instalment in Faith Summers’ contemporary, adult EMPIRE OF SINNERS dark, erotic, Mafia romance series. This is thirty year old, billionaire/ second in command to the Bratva Pakhan Dante Levitsky, and twenty-two year old, artist Serenity Bell’s story line.
NOTE: Due to the nature of the story line premise, there may be triggers for more sensitive readers.
Told from dual omniscient first person perspectives (Dante and Serenity) RUTHLESS SINNER follows the forbidden romance and relationship between thirty year old, billionaire/ second in command to the Bratva Pakhan Dante Levitsky, and twenty-two year old, artist Serenity Bell. Serenity Bell is the youngest daughter of Massachusett’s Governor Jason Bell but all is not well in the hierarchy. Serenity is expected to marry, a man connected to law and politics but Serenity has found herself falling for the ultimate bad guy in the guise of Bratva member and businessman Dante Levitsky. Dante lost his family years before, and as the sole surviving heir to his uncle’s position, Dante is second in command but secrets and lies are about to reveal the ultimate betrayal, and Dante is determined to seek vengeance against the man he once loved. Meanwhile, Serenity is forbidden to see our story line hero, having been promised to a man she does not know. As Serenity continues to defy her father, she will discover that her father’s secrets are dangerous and dark. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Dante and Serenity, and the potential fall-out as Serenity becomes a pawn in the world of the American politics, and the Russian Bratva.
The relationship between Dante and Serenity begins by accident when Serenity and her best friend Harper celebrate their futures at a club owned by Dante Levitsky. Serenity has no idea as the Dante’s past, his history or his connections to the mob but Serenity refuses to abide by her father’s demands, demands that push Serenity into the direct line of fire. Dante Levitsky knew immediately that Serenity was the woman that called to his heart but her family connections are about to expose a deep seated hatred, and quest for power she knew nothing about. The $ex scenes are intimate and provocative with some light scenes of BDSM.
We are introduced to Dante’s best friend and right hand man Virgo Antonov, a man who is struggling with the loss of the woman he once loved; Serenity’s step- sister Natalie; her father Governor Jason Bell, and Jason’s wife Melissa; Dante’s uncle Igor, as well as several members of the Bratva, the Creed Alliance, and various security coming in and out of their lives. The requisite evil has many faces. Virgo’s story line is next.
RUTHLESS SINNER is a Romeo and Juliette style story of power and control, betrayal and vengeance, secrets and lies, dysfunctional families, abuse and murder, acceptance and love. The fast paced premise is dark, gritty, twisted and haunting; the romance is seductive and sensitive ; the characters are brooding, edgy and dynamic. RUTHLESS SINNER ends on a bit of a cliff hanger-you have been warned.
Www.thereadingcafe.com
NOTE: Due to the nature of the story line premise, there may be triggers for more sensitive readers.
Told from dual omniscient first person perspectives (Dante and Serenity) RUTHLESS SINNER follows the forbidden romance and relationship between thirty year old, billionaire/ second in command to the Bratva Pakhan Dante Levitsky, and twenty-two year old, artist Serenity Bell. Serenity Bell is the youngest daughter of Massachusett’s Governor Jason Bell but all is not well in the hierarchy. Serenity is expected to marry, a man connected to law and politics but Serenity has found herself falling for the ultimate bad guy in the guise of Bratva member and businessman Dante Levitsky. Dante lost his family years before, and as the sole surviving heir to his uncle’s position, Dante is second in command but secrets and lies are about to reveal the ultimate betrayal, and Dante is determined to seek vengeance against the man he once loved. Meanwhile, Serenity is forbidden to see our story line hero, having been promised to a man she does not know. As Serenity continues to defy her father, she will discover that her father’s secrets are dangerous and dark. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Dante and Serenity, and the potential fall-out as Serenity becomes a pawn in the world of the American politics, and the Russian Bratva.
The relationship between Dante and Serenity begins by accident when Serenity and her best friend Harper celebrate their futures at a club owned by Dante Levitsky. Serenity has no idea as the Dante’s past, his history or his connections to the mob but Serenity refuses to abide by her father’s demands, demands that push Serenity into the direct line of fire. Dante Levitsky knew immediately that Serenity was the woman that called to his heart but her family connections are about to expose a deep seated hatred, and quest for power she knew nothing about. The $ex scenes are intimate and provocative with some light scenes of BDSM.
We are introduced to Dante’s best friend and right hand man Virgo Antonov, a man who is struggling with the loss of the woman he once loved; Serenity’s step- sister Natalie; her father Governor Jason Bell, and Jason’s wife Melissa; Dante’s uncle Igor, as well as several members of the Bratva, the Creed Alliance, and various security coming in and out of their lives. The requisite evil has many faces. Virgo’s story line is next.
RUTHLESS SINNER is a Romeo and Juliette style story of power and control, betrayal and vengeance, secrets and lies, dysfunctional families, abuse and murder, acceptance and love. The fast paced premise is dark, gritty, twisted and haunting; the romance is seductive and sensitive ; the characters are brooding, edgy and dynamic. RUTHLESS SINNER ends on a bit of a cliff hanger-you have been warned.
Www.thereadingcafe.com
May 28, 2023
This current tale was filled with more than a few twists and turns and I have to say the reader did not see coming. Don't you just love when that happens we definitely do.
Dante and Serenity's situation has heartbreak written all over it from the moment they met. From the moment they met, there was this instant connection maybe it was lust but, the feeling we get was it was so much more.
We have to say that we loved them as a couple they just fit their chemistry between them was off the charts. Their sexy scenes were hot and passionate. The danger and the forbidden in their relationship were all the more intoxicating. We have to say with this one we were all Team Dante from the moment we met him in the fact that we knew when the truth came out about the secrets he held Serenity would turn tale and run and call him a liar time and time again. From the beginning of their relationship and even before it was a so-called relationship, he warned her away from him and told her upfront what kind of man he was and that he was dangerous. Just looking at the man you knew that too and she chose to play with that fire anyway but, when its time to pay the piper you want to cry wolf
From the moment we met Dante, we knew that the more he and Virgo unearthed the truth he was always going to be stuck between and rock and a hard place, and in the end, he was going to lose the woman he had come to love. What we loved most about Dante's character is that he was the only one putting in the work and making sacrifices to save his relationship with Serenity it seemed so out of character for a man like him but, being in love makes a man do crazy things. We felt he was willing to risk it all even maybe his life even compromising when it's the last thing he wanted to do.
Overall the story was engaging had a bit of suspense and wrought more than a few surprises. The story also had that Cinderella feel to it with the wicked stepmother vibe going on also we loved the cast of characters. Virgo surprised us and we have to say we already have a soft spot for him we are so looking forward to his story. Serenity was a character that we were on the fence about you want to love her character but, something holds you back she was talented and beautiful and it was clear that she could be feisty when she chose to be but, when it came to her family she was nothing but, the forgotten one and doormat and caved into all their demands instead of using that same backbone and determination she had with her passion of art. We had wished she would have fought as hard for their relationship as Dante did for them both.
Dante and Serenity's situation has heartbreak written all over it from the moment they met. From the moment they met, there was this instant connection maybe it was lust but, the feeling we get was it was so much more.
We have to say that we loved them as a couple they just fit their chemistry between them was off the charts. Their sexy scenes were hot and passionate. The danger and the forbidden in their relationship were all the more intoxicating. We have to say with this one we were all Team Dante from the moment we met him in the fact that we knew when the truth came out about the secrets he held Serenity would turn tale and run and call him a liar time and time again. From the beginning of their relationship and even before it was a so-called relationship, he warned her away from him and told her upfront what kind of man he was and that he was dangerous. Just looking at the man you knew that too and she chose to play with that fire anyway but, when its time to pay the piper you want to cry wolf
From the moment we met Dante, we knew that the more he and Virgo unearthed the truth he was always going to be stuck between and rock and a hard place, and in the end, he was going to lose the woman he had come to love. What we loved most about Dante's character is that he was the only one putting in the work and making sacrifices to save his relationship with Serenity it seemed so out of character for a man like him but, being in love makes a man do crazy things. We felt he was willing to risk it all even maybe his life even compromising when it's the last thing he wanted to do.
Overall the story was engaging had a bit of suspense and wrought more than a few surprises. The story also had that Cinderella feel to it with the wicked stepmother vibe going on also we loved the cast of characters. Virgo surprised us and we have to say we already have a soft spot for him we are so looking forward to his story. Serenity was a character that we were on the fence about you want to love her character but, something holds you back she was talented and beautiful and it was clear that she could be feisty when she chose to be but, when it came to her family she was nothing but, the forgotten one and doormat and caved into all their demands instead of using that same backbone and determination she had with her passion of art. We had wished she would have fought as hard for their relationship as Dante did for them both.
November 22, 2025
It really dragged for most of the book till the end. I didn’t like how Serenity did all the chasing of Danté.
There are parts of this that are enjoyable, but it is written like a schoolgirl wrote it. Another reviewer said this and I totally agree. So many mistakes, really ruin it. Why are Russians texting each other in ENGLISH? Danté has lived in America since he was 14, yet a lot of his English is really stilted, and some of his sentences don’t make sense. It was almost like the author thought that he wouldn’t speak fluent English even though he speaks SEVEN languages fluently! If the author had called the Russian BRATVA, mafia one more time I was going to throw my kindle! Even Danté himself calls it mafia. There’s weird spacing throughout the book, there’s one or two words on one line!
Then there’s Serenity. Serenity is so unbelievably beautiful that all men want her yet she chases Danté and i didn’t like that. I know he wants revenge on her father but it got seriously annoying that she was doing all the running after him. Even after he told her that they could never be together she pursues him. I have to say that I didn’t like Serenity. Yes she had been in a bad car crash and she’s still recovering mentally from the loss of her best friend, but she’s a doormat with everyone! She lost her mother at 16, (I think.) and her dad who she was really close with suddenly changed and became horrid to her, and married another woman. Her dad was supposedly madly in love with her mother yet he allows his new wife to treat his daughter like sh*t and burn all his wife’s clothes!!!! Why didn’t Serenity ever get a job??? Move away from them and make a new life? Her dad totally controlled her life and when he tells her she’ll be marrying his friends son she just GOES ALONG WITH IT!! Even though the man is horrid!! 😡😡😡
Aside from the endless sex that Danté and Serenity have there’s not much of a plot. There’s nothing about the BRATVA, and Danté really doesn’t seem like he’s second in command. Where are all his guards? Who is he in command of? It’s pretty obvious straight away who the baddie is that they’re searching for. As I said earlier it does get a lot better nearer the end but I still ended up skimming pages.
Sorry but it could have been really good but isn’t.
There are parts of this that are enjoyable, but it is written like a schoolgirl wrote it. Another reviewer said this and I totally agree. So many mistakes, really ruin it. Why are Russians texting each other in ENGLISH? Danté has lived in America since he was 14, yet a lot of his English is really stilted, and some of his sentences don’t make sense. It was almost like the author thought that he wouldn’t speak fluent English even though he speaks SEVEN languages fluently! If the author had called the Russian BRATVA, mafia one more time I was going to throw my kindle! Even Danté himself calls it mafia. There’s weird spacing throughout the book, there’s one or two words on one line!
Then there’s Serenity. Serenity is so unbelievably beautiful that all men want her yet she chases Danté and i didn’t like that. I know he wants revenge on her father but it got seriously annoying that she was doing all the running after him. Even after he told her that they could never be together she pursues him. I have to say that I didn’t like Serenity. Yes she had been in a bad car crash and she’s still recovering mentally from the loss of her best friend, but she’s a doormat with everyone! She lost her mother at 16, (I think.) and her dad who she was really close with suddenly changed and became horrid to her, and married another woman. Her dad was supposedly madly in love with her mother yet he allows his new wife to treat his daughter like sh*t and burn all his wife’s clothes!!!! Why didn’t Serenity ever get a job??? Move away from them and make a new life? Her dad totally controlled her life and when he tells her she’ll be marrying his friends son she just GOES ALONG WITH IT!! Even though the man is horrid!! 😡😡😡
Aside from the endless sex that Danté and Serenity have there’s not much of a plot. There’s nothing about the BRATVA, and Danté really doesn’t seem like he’s second in command. Where are all his guards? Who is he in command of? It’s pretty obvious straight away who the baddie is that they’re searching for. As I said earlier it does get a lot better nearer the end but I still ended up skimming pages.
Sorry but it could have been really good but isn’t.
June 12, 2023
WOW...This book is going to capture your attention from the very start. This is an exceptional way to start this series and I can't wait to see what happens next. This Bratva dark romance has everything you need to be fully satisfied.
Dante Levitsky is the Sovietnik (2nd in command) for his Bratva and he has worked hard for this position. The Bratva is for life and he is committed to it with everything that he has. However, he learns some interesting information about their Obshchak, who is also their Governor Jason Bell. He knows his he has to do something with this information but he has to tread lightly because even though Jason is a scumbag he can't draw too much attention while he plots his revenge. Dante has also become a bit obsessed with Jason's beautiful and talented daughter Serenity. She is gorgeous, smart, funny, and downright delectable and he is not sure he can or wants to stay away. He knows he is playing with fire but he just can't not have her!
Serenity Bell is the governor's daughter and she has done what is expected of her except following her passion for art instead of law like her father would have wanted. She is talented and excited to start this new chapter in her life. She has an unforgettable encounter with a gorgeous and protective stranger at a night club and she can't get him out of her mind. She wants to track him down to properly thank him but she can't seem to find him. When he finds her she can't breathe at how captivating and breathtaking he is. She wants him likes she's never wanted anyone before..Dante Levitsky is unlike anyone she has ever met but once she learns his true identity and affiliations she doesn't know what to do.
She wants him but can she go against her father?
Will he be able to protect her if she does?
Will she ever be able to walk away from him?
Will he let her go?
What will she do if she says Yes to being His?
All of these questions and more will be answered in this epic novel that will leave you feeling light headed with all the twists and turns. You will thoroughly enjoy these characters and you will fall hard for their forbidden love. Happy Reading!!
Dante Levitsky is the Sovietnik (2nd in command) for his Bratva and he has worked hard for this position. The Bratva is for life and he is committed to it with everything that he has. However, he learns some interesting information about their Obshchak, who is also their Governor Jason Bell. He knows his he has to do something with this information but he has to tread lightly because even though Jason is a scumbag he can't draw too much attention while he plots his revenge. Dante has also become a bit obsessed with Jason's beautiful and talented daughter Serenity. She is gorgeous, smart, funny, and downright delectable and he is not sure he can or wants to stay away. He knows he is playing with fire but he just can't not have her!
Serenity Bell is the governor's daughter and she has done what is expected of her except following her passion for art instead of law like her father would have wanted. She is talented and excited to start this new chapter in her life. She has an unforgettable encounter with a gorgeous and protective stranger at a night club and she can't get him out of her mind. She wants to track him down to properly thank him but she can't seem to find him. When he finds her she can't breathe at how captivating and breathtaking he is. She wants him likes she's never wanted anyone before..Dante Levitsky is unlike anyone she has ever met but once she learns his true identity and affiliations she doesn't know what to do.
She wants him but can she go against her father?
Will he be able to protect her if she does?
Will she ever be able to walk away from him?
Will he let her go?
What will she do if she says Yes to being His?
All of these questions and more will be answered in this epic novel that will leave you feeling light headed with all the twists and turns. You will thoroughly enjoy these characters and you will fall hard for their forbidden love. Happy Reading!!
May 26, 2023
Dante Levitsky is the second in command of his family’s Bratva. His uncle, Igor is at the head as Pahkan. Serenity Bell, newly graduated from UCLA, has returned to Boston to begin her career as an artist. Her father, Jason Bell is the governor of the state of Massachusetts. Unbeknownst to Serenity he is number 3 in this Russian Mafia. Jason is responsible for Dante serving a year in prison. Dante knows Jason is responsible but unsure as to WHY. He is determined to find out the reasons behind it and to get revenge on the Governor. If Serenity gets used in that revenge, so be it. Serenity and her bestie HARPER go to the club owned by Dante. He looks down from his balcony and sees them dancing. She looks up and… and do you believe in Love at First Sight? They are not sure but….. and so their journey begins. Dante’s bestie and partner, is his childhood friend, Virgo, an MIT computer wiz. (He is Book 2 in the series). He warns Dante about getting involved with Serenity who is ‘scheduled’ to become engaged to a narcissistic
Harvard Law grad. He was chosen for her by her father. Serenity is NOT interested… so what obstacles are in front of these two? Lots of lies to uncover and truths to be shared… some more devastating than others.
Faith Summers has once again written a fantastic story this reader could not put down (Reread it already). Dante and Serenity are charming separately and together. Readers simply have no choice but to root for them to get a HEA. But will revenge win out? If he goes ahead with his plan to kill her father, as is the Mafia way, will Serenity understand and still want to be with him? Should he tell her the truth abut her father and shatter any illusions she has. And what of the tacky finance? And HARPER… everyone should have a bestie like Harper who is fun personified. Hoping she gets her book. (Hint hint) A fun read with believable characters. Readers will root for them. A Typical Faith Summers book, with love, passion, suspense and hopefully a HEA. But you have to read for yourself. Another 5 star hit.
Harvard Law grad. He was chosen for her by her father. Serenity is NOT interested… so what obstacles are in front of these two? Lots of lies to uncover and truths to be shared… some more devastating than others.
Faith Summers has once again written a fantastic story this reader could not put down (Reread it already). Dante and Serenity are charming separately and together. Readers simply have no choice but to root for them to get a HEA. But will revenge win out? If he goes ahead with his plan to kill her father, as is the Mafia way, will Serenity understand and still want to be with him? Should he tell her the truth abut her father and shatter any illusions she has. And what of the tacky finance? And HARPER… everyone should have a bestie like Harper who is fun personified. Hoping she gets her book. (Hint hint) A fun read with believable characters. Readers will root for them. A Typical Faith Summers book, with love, passion, suspense and hopefully a HEA. But you have to read for yourself. Another 5 star hit.
December 17, 2024
Quite possibly one of my least favourite books ever. Was this even proofread or edited before it was published???? There was every type of error in every chapter. Spelling errors, grammatical and punctuation errors. Just. Everywhere.
Way too many “you’re” in situations when it should be “your”. Just one example of many:
“I want you too much to stop myself from falling for you, even when I know I’m probably you’re worse nightmare”
I could not take anything about this book seriously either, the flow of the way the characters spoke to each other and how they thought was so unnatural and weird.
I cringed SO hard and was so close to putting this down and DNFing the moment Dante says:
“The problem is I’m an Alpha and he’s a beta masking as an alpha.”
LOL ewwww
Also I did not appreciate the use of the word “passage”. It was used a lot and it just made the scene feel icky. It has the same godawful effect as “canal” 😷😷
But I did finish it, and it was okay. Ending was as rushed and simple as it could’ve been. It all just typically and magically fell into place.
As predictable as the mafia tropes are, I was still shocked, dare I say a bit disappointed that her father survived. Surviving being shot in the chest, I could maybe believe that. But surviving a bomb blast????? That seems like it was some real divine intervention going on there in both accounts and quite frankly it kind of ruined the whole action scene for me. Igor was granted a swift death but her poor evil daddy survives by ALMOST being blown to smitherines???
Right. Seems like a joke to me. At least he’s spending the rest of his days in prison! Bit of a light sentence to me, considering how evil and dastardly he was made out to be.
Two stars because it was just okay. Their romance was pretty whirlwind, suppose it was spot on for a Romeo and Juliet type story. Plus, her getting off while literally being on the phone to her FATHER was so gross and honestly kind of vile.
Not much else to really talk about... but at least the sex scenes were decent.
Way too many “you’re” in situations when it should be “your”. Just one example of many:
“I want you too much to stop myself from falling for you, even when I know I’m probably you’re worse nightmare”
I could not take anything about this book seriously either, the flow of the way the characters spoke to each other and how they thought was so unnatural and weird.
I cringed SO hard and was so close to putting this down and DNFing the moment Dante says:
“The problem is I’m an Alpha and he’s a beta masking as an alpha.”
LOL ewwww
Also I did not appreciate the use of the word “passage”. It was used a lot and it just made the scene feel icky. It has the same godawful effect as “canal” 😷😷
But I did finish it, and it was okay. Ending was as rushed and simple as it could’ve been. It all just typically and magically fell into place.
As predictable as the mafia tropes are, I was still shocked, dare I say a bit disappointed that her father survived. Surviving being shot in the chest, I could maybe believe that. But surviving a bomb blast????? That seems like it was some real divine intervention going on there in both accounts and quite frankly it kind of ruined the whole action scene for me. Igor was granted a swift death but her poor evil daddy survives by ALMOST being blown to smitherines???
Right. Seems like a joke to me. At least he’s spending the rest of his days in prison! Bit of a light sentence to me, considering how evil and dastardly he was made out to be.
Two stars because it was just okay. Their romance was pretty whirlwind, suppose it was spot on for a Romeo and Juliet type story. Plus, her getting off while literally being on the phone to her FATHER was so gross and honestly kind of vile.
Not much else to really talk about... but at least the sex scenes were decent.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 10, 2023
Dante is nothing but hot, dark, and dangerous. Dante is second in command to the Bratva and also to the Creed, was setup and sent to prison. Dante has suffered several tragedies – mom and sister killed when he was 8 and then his father was killed while he was in prison. When Dante gets out, he finds out who set him up and is now out for revenge. Dante is out to find out proof that Jason Bell set him up – he wants to uncover everything – including his weaknesses. Serenity is caring, beautiful and overcoming a few tragedies of her own. She is also the daughter to the governor, Jason Bell.
What starts out as revenge could turn into something more. Serenity does something to Dante that he doesn’t see coming! Dante does everything he can to resist the little vixen, and even turns her away, but what happens when she lands on his doorstep after finding out she will have to marry for the relationships this pairing can bring? All bets are off and even though Serenity knows who Dante is now, she is willing to have a relationship with him, at least until she has to marry. Virgo, a member of the Creed and a friend of Dante’s kept warning Dante of what could happen if he fell down this rabbit hole – would he be able to finish what he started once his feelings became too real and what if Serenity finds out the truth to what Dante is up to?
Lots of twists and turns in this story. Deception, betrayal, secrets, lies, mystery, and suspense! Once I started reading, I had to finish it – I enjoyed trying to figure out each puzzle piece that was revealed which led to it’s own little mystery. I am looking forward to reading the next book in this series about Virgo and his girl, Olivia.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
What starts out as revenge could turn into something more. Serenity does something to Dante that he doesn’t see coming! Dante does everything he can to resist the little vixen, and even turns her away, but what happens when she lands on his doorstep after finding out she will have to marry for the relationships this pairing can bring? All bets are off and even though Serenity knows who Dante is now, she is willing to have a relationship with him, at least until she has to marry. Virgo, a member of the Creed and a friend of Dante’s kept warning Dante of what could happen if he fell down this rabbit hole – would he be able to finish what he started once his feelings became too real and what if Serenity finds out the truth to what Dante is up to?
Lots of twists and turns in this story. Deception, betrayal, secrets, lies, mystery, and suspense! Once I started reading, I had to finish it – I enjoyed trying to figure out each puzzle piece that was revealed which led to it’s own little mystery. I am looking forward to reading the next book in this series about Virgo and his girl, Olivia.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 28, 2023
I voluntarily reviewed "RUTHLESS SINNER" OMG!!!
I was hooked from the start what an intense wild dangerous emotional rollercoaster ride full of angst
suspense, intrigue, secrets, lies, deception, betrayal
manipulation, scorching hot scenes, revenge, twists that has you on the edge of your seat the whole time.
Dante Levitsky is looking for revenge on Governor Jason Bell who set him up to go to prison he didn't get to say goodbye to his father Seimon Levitsky head of Bratva & Creed before he died, his brother & Dante's Uncle Igor took over while Dante was in Prison & he's angry he made Jason Bell Obshchak of the Bratva the third arm of the elite division.
Serenity & her BF Harper go to Club X to celebrate their new jobs this where she meets Dante for first time he has bad boy, danger, written all over him, Harper talks her into dancing for him while he watches from the balcony of his Club he owns with BF Virgo, the attraction & chemistry between is all consuming its a pull they can't deny she's the light to his darkness but totally off limits being Jason Bell's daughter he's the Governor he want revenge on.
I definitely recommend to get this riviting on the edge of your seat action packed story Dante & Serenity have so many hurdles to cross to be together if that's even possible, their chemistry was sizzling hot could stay away from each other even knowing what could happen, he warned her away but did no good, you'll absolutely love their story.
I'm so looking forward to "MERCILESS SINNER" the next book in this amazing series it will be about
"Virgo & Olivia" it can't come soon enough.
PHENOMINAL MINDBLOWING DARK MAFIA ROMANCE 🖤 🖤 🖤 🖤 🖤
I was hooked from the start what an intense wild dangerous emotional rollercoaster ride full of angst
suspense, intrigue, secrets, lies, deception, betrayal
manipulation, scorching hot scenes, revenge, twists that has you on the edge of your seat the whole time.
Dante Levitsky is looking for revenge on Governor Jason Bell who set him up to go to prison he didn't get to say goodbye to his father Seimon Levitsky head of Bratva & Creed before he died, his brother & Dante's Uncle Igor took over while Dante was in Prison & he's angry he made Jason Bell Obshchak of the Bratva the third arm of the elite division.
Serenity & her BF Harper go to Club X to celebrate their new jobs this where she meets Dante for first time he has bad boy, danger, written all over him, Harper talks her into dancing for him while he watches from the balcony of his Club he owns with BF Virgo, the attraction & chemistry between is all consuming its a pull they can't deny she's the light to his darkness but totally off limits being Jason Bell's daughter he's the Governor he want revenge on.
I definitely recommend to get this riviting on the edge of your seat action packed story Dante & Serenity have so many hurdles to cross to be together if that's even possible, their chemistry was sizzling hot could stay away from each other even knowing what could happen, he warned her away but did no good, you'll absolutely love their story.
I'm so looking forward to "MERCILESS SINNER" the next book in this amazing series it will be about
"Virgo & Olivia" it can't come soon enough.
PHENOMINAL MINDBLOWING DARK MAFIA ROMANCE 🖤 🖤 🖤 🖤 🖤
June 3, 2023
I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.
This is a dark romance that is inspired by Romeo and Juliet. You will want to heed the warnings in the beginning of the book. It will contain triggers for some readers.
This is the story of Dante and Serenity. She is the governor's daughter. She is good girl but man does she love the bad boys. One bad boy in particular. Dante. He is a part of the Russian Mafia and has just gotten out of prison. However Dante hates her father. He is convinced that he is the reason or had him set up to go to jail for something that he didn't even do. He will seek and get his revenge if it is the last thing that he does. But what he doesn't plan on is the way the governor's daughter makes him feel. He can't have a thing for enemy number ones daughter. As far as he is concerned she should be forbidden for him but that doesn't even help him push her away. He knows that he should be they way the feel and the connection they have is just way too strong for them to ignore. However the fact still remains he has plans for her father and is carrying around some secrets and these things have the potential to destroy. Secrets and plans can't stay hidden forever. How will this affect them when it all comes crashing down? Well you have to read and find out. I can't say a thing. I will say that I loved these characters. They have such a connection and a smoking hot chemistry. You will be rooting for them for sure. This was a really great book and since it is the first in a series I can't wait to see what we get next.
This is a dark romance that is inspired by Romeo and Juliet. You will want to heed the warnings in the beginning of the book. It will contain triggers for some readers.
This is the story of Dante and Serenity. She is the governor's daughter. She is good girl but man does she love the bad boys. One bad boy in particular. Dante. He is a part of the Russian Mafia and has just gotten out of prison. However Dante hates her father. He is convinced that he is the reason or had him set up to go to jail for something that he didn't even do. He will seek and get his revenge if it is the last thing that he does. But what he doesn't plan on is the way the governor's daughter makes him feel. He can't have a thing for enemy number ones daughter. As far as he is concerned she should be forbidden for him but that doesn't even help him push her away. He knows that he should be they way the feel and the connection they have is just way too strong for them to ignore. However the fact still remains he has plans for her father and is carrying around some secrets and these things have the potential to destroy. Secrets and plans can't stay hidden forever. How will this affect them when it all comes crashing down? Well you have to read and find out. I can't say a thing. I will say that I loved these characters. They have such a connection and a smoking hot chemistry. You will be rooting for them for sure. This was a really great book and since it is the first in a series I can't wait to see what we get next.
May 28, 2023
Ok so this is my first read by this author and what a way to get introduced to her story telling. I mean boom! Ruthless Sinner is a dark, steamy, sexy intense game of cat and mouse. There is a maze with so many twists and turns i was compelled to keep reading even when i was losing sleep i just needed a little more of this story. Here are some of the headlines
Dante Levitsky is the second in command of his family’s Bratva. His uncle, Igor is at the head as Pahkan. Serenity Bell, newly graduated from UCLA, has returned to Boston to begin her career as an artist. Her father, Jason Bell is the governor of the state of Massachusetts. Jason is responsible for Dante serving a year in prison. Dante knows Jason is responsible but unsure as to why but he is determined to find out and get revenge. Serenity and her bestie HARPER go to the club owned by Dante. He looks down from his balcony and sees them dancing. She looks up they lock eyes - can you say Cupids arrow? And so their journey begins. Dante's best bud Virgo warns him about the risks of getting involved with Serenity who is to be married off to man chosen for her by her father. Their story will not be an easy one, full of lies, secrets and betrayal. They say nothing worth having comes easy, well these two are about to find out how difficult it can be.
Difficult truths are unearthed that will shake their very core, strap in foe a unbelievable ride into the mafia underground. I can guarantee you will not be disappointed 📚❤️
May 25, 2023
Ruthless Sinner by Faith Summers is a Romeo and Juliette retelling with a dark mafia twist. It is the first book in the series, and it was an exciting, nail-biting, action-packed, who-done-it mystery with a lot of hot forbidden fun times. I absolutely reading books by Faith Summers. She is creative and original when writing her books. I loved the new twist to the Romeo and Juliette forbidden lovers trope. I was turning the pages wanting to find out who did what to whom. It was a crazy, whirl-wind romance that broke my heart but got put back together by both characters.
Serenity was fresh out of college and just starting her life. On the outside, she was carefree and had masks she wore for her friends and family. She hid her pain well. I thought she was strong and put up with a lot to make everyone happy. The only person who could call her bluff was her BFF. Dante was starting over after being away for a year. He was angry and out for revenge. He was broody, dark, and possessive. I loved Serenity and Dante's chemistry. They were explosive, stubborn, and had such angst and push and pull through this book I loved all their interactions with each other and the other characters.
I am so ready to read the next book in this series. If you like authors like Brooke Summers and Sam Crescent, you will enjoy reading Faith Summers. 4.5 stars- Brooke
Serenity was fresh out of college and just starting her life. On the outside, she was carefree and had masks she wore for her friends and family. She hid her pain well. I thought she was strong and put up with a lot to make everyone happy. The only person who could call her bluff was her BFF. Dante was starting over after being away for a year. He was angry and out for revenge. He was broody, dark, and possessive. I loved Serenity and Dante's chemistry. They were explosive, stubborn, and had such angst and push and pull through this book I loved all their interactions with each other and the other characters.
I am so ready to read the next book in this series. If you like authors like Brooke Summers and Sam Crescent, you will enjoy reading Faith Summers. 4.5 stars- Brooke
June 10, 2023
o.m.g. what a story! I absolutely loved it. It truly is a modern mafia Romeo and Juliette story except they live in the end. Happily. Dante for being as important as he was in the Bratva was truthful, honest, thoughtful, loving and yes dangerous. I fell for Dante. What a marvelous man. The perfect imperfect boyfriend and lover. Serenity was not a bold person. But she had dreams and aspirations of her own. Her father took advantage of her kind nature and tried to manipulate her to further his career. Luckily Dante helped her keep her autonomy. This is suspenseful, action-packed, emotional and unpredictable. In the end the reveal of the villains were shocking to both Dante and Serenity. For Dante, Serenity brought calm and peace to his chaotic soul. I loved how Serenity had painted a picture of her Juliette in love with Romeo a fallen angel. This is a wonderful book. So unlike most books of the mafia trope. Glad I got to read it. I highly recommend it.
I received a free copy of this book via Cherrylily ARCs and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Action-packed
Haunting
Happily Ever After
Page-turner
Romantic
Realistic
Steamy
Tragic
Twisted
Unpredictable
Wonderful characters.
I received a free copy of this book via Cherrylily ARCs and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Cherrylily ARCs and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Action-packed
Haunting
Happily Ever After
Page-turner
Romantic
Realistic
Steamy
Tragic
Twisted
Unpredictable
Wonderful characters.
I received a free copy of this book via Cherrylily ARCs and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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