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Volkov Bratva #3
The Mistake
I was the mistake.
A piece of trash.
No one wanted me.
All of my life I’d been told this. I meant nothing. I was nothing.
The Volkov Bratva made a mistake. They kidnapped me and it should have been my sister. My father wanted me dead. I expected Ivan Volkov to kill me. Instead, they killed my father, and now I’m to marry Ive Yahantov, a brigadier. I’m to be his wife. The man hates me. He doesn’t want me.
I don’t know what changes, but I go from being ignored, to being with Ive all the time. We share everything. The life I thought was only ever going to be that of a dream, becomes my reality. I’m falling for the man I thought I would hate. But nothing is ever certain. Ivan Volkov faked his death, and the repercussions of that is far and wide. My husband has enemies, and those enemies, they’ve come to collect.
I knew I was going to die young, but I had no idea life could be so cruel. I knew peace. I knew love. I knew happiness, and now, it was all going to be taken away.
A piece of trash.
No one wanted me.
All of my life I’d been told this. I meant nothing. I was nothing.
The Volkov Bratva made a mistake. They kidnapped me and it should have been my sister. My father wanted me dead. I expected Ivan Volkov to kill me. Instead, they killed my father, and now I’m to marry Ive Yahantov, a brigadier. I’m to be his wife. The man hates me. He doesn’t want me.
I don’t know what changes, but I go from being ignored, to being with Ive all the time. We share everything. The life I thought was only ever going to be that of a dream, becomes my reality. I’m falling for the man I thought I would hate. But nothing is ever certain. Ivan Volkov faked his death, and the repercussions of that is far and wide. My husband has enemies, and those enemies, they’ve come to collect.
I knew I was going to die young, but I had no idea life could be so cruel. I knew peace. I knew love. I knew happiness, and now, it was all going to be taken away.
297 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 4, 2023
225 people are currently reading
287 people want to read
About the author
Sam Crescent
552 books5,505 followersSam Crescent is passionate about fiction. She loves a good erotic romance and so it only made sense for her to spread her wings and start writing. She began writing in 2009 and finally got that first acceptance in 2011 by Total-E-Bound.
She loved creating new characters and delving into the worlds that she creates. When she’s not panicking about a story or arguing with a character, she can be found in her kitchen creating all kinds of havoc. Like her stories the creations in the kitchen can be just as dubious but sometimes things turn out great.
She loved creating new characters and delving into the worlds that she creates. When she’s not panicking about a story or arguing with a character, she can be found in her kitchen creating all kinds of havoc. Like her stories the creations in the kitchen can be just as dubious but sometimes things turn out great.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 165 reviews
December 10, 2023
I came across this title in one of the angsty FB groups. I kind of read through the reviews of it on GR, and the reviews didn't give me much hope for this story.
I started this story despite my low expectations, and I was sucked right in. There's not a ton of angst, action, or even of the mafia theme in this story really, but I enjoyed it all anyhow. Mostly this is the story of a heroine who was horribly abused (mentally, emotionally and physically) for her entire life by her evil fuck up of a father, and her relationship with her somewhat intimidating new husband. Charlotte has zero self esteem after her life long torture and abuses she's endured, and at the age of 18, she's accidentally kidnapped away from her home. Charlotte was fully convinced her kidnappers would kill her, and she had made peace with that idea.
The mafia kidnappers believed they had Charlotte's beautiful princess sister, but after realizing they had the wrong sister, the kept Charlotte anyhow, and forced her to marry their mafia brigadier Ive. Ive absolutely does NOT want Charlotte OR the forced marriage to her. My heart felt so sad for poor Charlotte, who never truly had any expectations that she would ever have a nice life. Even though Charlotte never discovered a ton of backbone, she finally decided to live her new life happily, and give her marriage a real chance.
Ive took a bit of convincing to warm up to Charlotte in this story, but he found his way into loving Charlotte, despite trying not to fall. The romance between Ive and Charlotte was definitely a slow burn, and in the end, Ive could NOT help bur fall for the truly lovely soul he found himself married to. The story was very sweet, and I definitely enjoyed every second of it.
May 17, 2024
I read this last week. It was just ok for me, but I had a lot going on over the weekend, so it could be a Jac thing. I found it on an unwanted arranged marriage list somewhere… and it is unwanted, but it didn’t deliver the angsty feels I was craving but it does provide a slow burn/healing friends to lovers’ relationship.
*I didn’t read any of the previous books but never felt lost.
The blurb sets this up, Charlotte (Lottie) was kidnapped and rescued in a previous book (I’m assuming). Her evil/abusive father was murdered, and the Bratva leader (Ivan) ordered Ive to marry her.
I had a few issues…
⚫ This has what I call the “prologue impact teaser ---flashback backtrack” format. I don’t love this flow because I’m impatient and once you tease me with the good stuff, I want it, and don’t want to be strolling down memory lane to get it. Making matters worse, (for me) is it takes 92% to get caught up to the prologue.
⚫ I’ve got to tell you Ive as the H’s name drove me nuts. I know this was to avoid him being confused with Ivan, but my brain would not stop trying to autocorrect it to the contraction leaving me to reread sentences constantly. This is a total Jac thing, but FYI if this… I knew Ive struggled with our guests. would annoy or trip you up.
⚫ The plot takes a while to get going. The first 42% is made up mostly of mafia business with them spending little time together. (It takes them 53% to even kiss.) It’s quite bland. There’s little action, no arguing or conflict, no relationship building, no smut, neither is being mean, it’s just filler.
⚫ There’re many time jumps, mostly holiday to holiday. I thought this made things choppy and surface-y because we never dug deep. For example, in the Thanksgiving chapter, Charlotte notices everyone seems tense/angry, and her sister won’t meet her eyes, but we never know what happened because when we get Ive’s POV (who was privy to the convo) we’ve skipped to Christmas.
Bottom Line- I picked this up as a freebie, and it was alright. Both of the main characters were very likable, and I enjoyed watching Charlotte heal. It’s not dark at all, there’s no OW or any relationship drama, and the mobsters are all family oriented. The first half was slow for me, but it does pick up. I just wish we got more in the present, I felt like the last 8% was very rushed. For example,
*I didn’t read any of the previous books but never felt lost.
The blurb sets this up, Charlotte (Lottie) was kidnapped and rescued in a previous book (I’m assuming). Her evil/abusive father was murdered, and the Bratva leader (Ivan) ordered Ive to marry her.
I had a few issues…
⚫ This has what I call the “prologue impact teaser ---flashback backtrack” format. I don’t love this flow because I’m impatient and once you tease me with the good stuff, I want it, and don’t want to be strolling down memory lane to get it. Making matters worse, (for me) is it takes 92% to get caught up to the prologue.
⚫ I’ve got to tell you Ive as the H’s name drove me nuts. I know this was to avoid him being confused with Ivan, but my brain would not stop trying to autocorrect it to the contraction leaving me to reread sentences constantly. This is a total Jac thing, but FYI if this… I knew Ive struggled with our guests. would annoy or trip you up.
⚫ The plot takes a while to get going. The first 42% is made up mostly of mafia business with them spending little time together. (It takes them 53% to even kiss.) It’s quite bland. There’s little action, no arguing or conflict, no relationship building, no smut, neither is being mean, it’s just filler.
⚫ There’re many time jumps, mostly holiday to holiday. I thought this made things choppy and surface-y because we never dug deep. For example, in the Thanksgiving chapter, Charlotte notices everyone seems tense/angry, and her sister won’t meet her eyes, but we never know what happened because when we get Ive’s POV (who was privy to the convo) we’ve skipped to Christmas.
Bottom Line- I picked this up as a freebie, and it was alright. Both of the main characters were very likable, and I enjoyed watching Charlotte heal. It’s not dark at all, there’s no OW or any relationship drama, and the mobsters are all family oriented. The first half was slow for me, but it does pick up. I just wish we got more in the present, I felt like the last 8% was very rushed. For example,
July 9, 2023
The writing on this book was very different than other Sam Crescent books I’ve read. The writing seemed broken and inconsistent.
The last 10% of the book had the most action and could easily have been expanded to add more depth to the plot and characters.
Lots of triggers for this book, check those before reading.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The last 10% of the book had the most action and could easily have been expanded to add more depth to the plot and characters.
Lots of triggers for this book, check those before reading.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 11, 2023
Such potential, but I was bored to fucking tears! DNFed!
July 24, 2023
Charlotte is mistaken kidnapped in the previous book, A Sense of Duty. They thought they were getting the MC President’s favorite daughter and didn’t realize they got the one he hated. Ivan Volkov plays matchmaker with his men again and asks his brigadier, Ive, to marry her. It’s not a happy marriage at first, but it’s the first time Charlotte has ever been free to do basically what she wants in her life. She was abused by her father so she immediately swears allegiance to Ivan and Ive because they will never hurt her. Ive shows her what she’s been missing throughout her life with the various holidays and going out to eat. They slowly fall in love but never admit to each other. A lot happens in this book, and it’s sucks you in from the prologue. It’s a sweet sorta enemies to lovers. The only part I didn’t like was it took both three years and an additional kidnapping to them to admit their feelings for each other.
I received a free copy of this book via Evernight and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Evernight and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 31, 2025
When a mistake becomes a blessing
This book is a slow build up to a fantastic HEA! Both characters had to overcome their pasts, and there were more than a few setbacks, but Ivan was determined that this beauty finally found happiness. Ive had to change his way of thinking about a lot of things when he saw the reality of the situation, but it was entirely worth it. I felt so sorry for Charlotte and I am glad that she got to see her connection with her sister flourish. The author really focused on the relationship with this one, and I loved getting to see every experience through the characters eyes. Be prepared to get emotional when you read this book.
This book is a slow build up to a fantastic HEA! Both characters had to overcome their pasts, and there were more than a few setbacks, but Ivan was determined that this beauty finally found happiness. Ive had to change his way of thinking about a lot of things when he saw the reality of the situation, but it was entirely worth it. I felt so sorry for Charlotte and I am glad that she got to see her connection with her sister flourish. The author really focused on the relationship with this one, and I loved getting to see every experience through the characters eyes. Be prepared to get emotional when you read this book.
July 27, 2023
LOVE IT !!
Ive and Charlottes story was just so perfect !! Volkov Bratva series is amazing !! I highly recommend it and this wonderful author 💛
Ive and Charlottes story was just so perfect !! Volkov Bratva series is amazing !! I highly recommend it and this wonderful author 💛
September 9, 2023
I loved this book, definitely 4.5 stars. I love these series, it's so interesting and captivating. Ive was all brute and mean but around Lottie, he just melted in a way, he really loved her. Lottie was so strong, what she went through, she was a freaking hero. I loved their relationship, they both were there for each other. When he finally decided to stop pushing her away was marvelous, he allowed himself to love her and it was fantastic. The only thing I didn't like was the 3 year jump in the start, I felt like it was too much, but yeah, the book was really good
July 23, 2023
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
OMG! Wow, I was absolutely astounded when I read this book, the story was exhilarating and the characters were captivating. This story was about Charlotte "Lottie" and Ivan "Ive", Charlotte was nearly killed by her father, when she was kidnapped it backfired they were told to kill her. Ivan has changed name to Ive to distinguish between him and his boss, Ive has a person in his dungeon that he is holding for his boss. There was alot of action, drama, suspense, danger, twist and turns, violence, killings, enemies, kidnapping, trafficking, drugs, Cartel, Bratva, betrayal, secrets, lies, arranged marriage, approx twenty years age gap, then trust to feel wanted and the love for her dog to only be kidnapped again.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
OMG! Wow, I was absolutely astounded when I read this book, the story was exhilarating and the characters were captivating. This story was about Charlotte "Lottie" and Ivan "Ive", Charlotte was nearly killed by her father, when she was kidnapped it backfired they were told to kill her. Ivan has changed name to Ive to distinguish between him and his boss, Ive has a person in his dungeon that he is holding for his boss. There was alot of action, drama, suspense, danger, twist and turns, violence, killings, enemies, kidnapping, trafficking, drugs, Cartel, Bratva, betrayal, secrets, lies, arranged marriage, approx twenty years age gap, then trust to feel wanted and the love for her dog to only be kidnapped again.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Read
August 30, 2023i love me some SC and when i saw a new release of course i jumped but dear lord this is impossible to read.
The writing is so clunky and broken i couldn't get into a reading flow, this staggered me cuz this is NOT how SC writes. Her writing always makes me fall in sync instantly. The sentence structuring in this one is so bad i could barely enjoy reading a single line.
And some of the shit Charlotte endured is just too cringe to even imagine. Being made to wear a paper bag over her face with holes cut in it cuz she wasn't pretty?
bye, i can't even.
The writing is so clunky and broken i couldn't get into a reading flow, this staggered me cuz this is NOT how SC writes. Her writing always makes me fall in sync instantly. The sentence structuring in this one is so bad i could barely enjoy reading a single line.
And some of the shit Charlotte endured is just too cringe to even imagine. Being made to wear a paper bag over her face with holes cut in it cuz she wasn't pretty?
bye, i can't even.
October 10, 2023
Wasted potential seems to be sticking with Sam Crescent.
August 18, 2023
Well this was super disappointing. I ended up having to skim a lot because I just wasn't engaged and it was so freaking slow, repetitive, AND there was no sex. I mean they had sex eventually, but it was mediocre at best.
Ive (Russian bratva guy) is told to marry Charlotte (18-yo virgin) when our friend Ivan plays matchmaker again. He has better matchmaking skills than the Bachelor! So in this version of the exact same story as the other two books, Charlotte is the discarded daughter of an MC prez. She's always been told she's a mistake, never allowed any happiness, always beaten, etc. Same old story. Ive doesn't want to marry her (and I hate that name!!! Do you know how confusing it was to read Ive instead of I've???). He literally says, "Charlotte was not a small woman. Trust me, I knew. She was not light." Ummmmmmm sure that's something I totally want my husband to think about me. Anyway, he keeps her caged in the house to protect her, she's confused, yadda yadda yadda. They start to like each other and eventually have sex on like page 194 of 244 pages. Way too long to wait.
Big thing is they spent ALL this time on boring ass sh*t, then when she's kidnapped and injured and we get some excitement, it just all rushes by in like 3 pages. There isn't even a chapter on what she goes through when she's kidnapped. What the hell??
THEN..... on page 223 of 244 pages.... he FINALLY says he loves her. AFTER she's kidnapped. It's been 3 years!!! In 3 f*cking years you couldn't manage to tell your wife you love her?? GTFO with that bullsh*t.
Nah bro. Take your ass somewhere else with that.
Anyway - I'm mad.
Ive (Russian bratva guy) is told to marry Charlotte (18-yo virgin) when our friend Ivan plays matchmaker again. He has better matchmaking skills than the Bachelor! So in this version of the exact same story as the other two books, Charlotte is the discarded daughter of an MC prez. She's always been told she's a mistake, never allowed any happiness, always beaten, etc. Same old story. Ive doesn't want to marry her (and I hate that name!!! Do you know how confusing it was to read Ive instead of I've???). He literally says, "Charlotte was not a small woman. Trust me, I knew. She was not light." Ummmmmmm sure that's something I totally want my husband to think about me. Anyway, he keeps her caged in the house to protect her, she's confused, yadda yadda yadda. They start to like each other and eventually have sex on like page 194 of 244 pages. Way too long to wait.
Big thing is they spent ALL this time on boring ass sh*t, then when she's kidnapped and injured and we get some excitement, it just all rushes by in like 3 pages. There isn't even a chapter on what she goes through when she's kidnapped. What the hell??
THEN..... on page 223 of 244 pages.... he FINALLY says he loves her. AFTER she's kidnapped. It's been 3 years!!! In 3 f*cking years you couldn't manage to tell your wife you love her?? GTFO with that bullsh*t.
Nah bro. Take your ass somewhere else with that.
Anyway - I'm mad.
September 13, 2024
This book was wonderful there was darkness that’s a given but there was also so much care and tenderness and love that it just overshadows all the darkness. Charlotte had a horrible 17 years then Ive showered her with so much good. Ivan is really turning out to be a masterful matchmaker surely he will meet his match soon too.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 11, 2023
best book I’ve read this year !
I love Ive and Charlotte story. It was one of the best books I’ve ever read this year. Awesome job.
I love Ive and Charlotte story. It was one of the best books I’ve ever read this year. Awesome job.
October 3, 2023
I’m not sure what Sam does or how she does it, but she has me hooked every single time, I think I’ll just read the first couple of chapters and before I know it I’ve read the whole thing.I love her characters, the chemistry, the drama abd romance, if I see Sams name on a book I know I want to read it and it’ll be great , highly recommended and 10 stars from me
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 3, 2023
Charlotte is one of those characters that has been through so much in her young life and you can’t help feeling sorry for her, hoping she finds love and happiness.
Ive is a brigadier in the Volkov Bratva and he has also had a terrible upbringing but has turned into an unfeeling man who cherishes only the violence his title and occupation brings him.
This couple are married to each other because the Pakhan orders it and they struggle to find balance and harmony in this forced marriage.
So excited for more from this series, and hoping that Ivan finds his happily ever after ❤️
Ive is a brigadier in the Volkov Bratva and he has also had a terrible upbringing but has turned into an unfeeling man who cherishes only the violence his title and occupation brings him.
This couple are married to each other because the Pakhan orders it and they struggle to find balance and harmony in this forced marriage.
So excited for more from this series, and hoping that Ivan finds his happily ever after ❤️
August 19, 2023
Exploring the house….The h was so dense that she had to put post it notes on the doors of the rooms she had “explored.” 🙄 I was so bored reading this and found that I was forcing myself to read, just so I could move on to my next read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 29, 2023
DNF! Holy moly, this bored me to death. Took me nearly a month to finish it. I purchased this with my own money and forced myself to continue far passed where I would normally go when I know I'm dealing with a dud. When I got to 75%, I called it. It starts with them already knowing each other, which I'm not usually a fan of. Ivan--the mob boss, not the MC-- is featured heavily, to the point that I honestly thought he was gonna be the MC or that maybe even this possibly being an MFM romance. Sadly, nothing that interesting happens. When a new character started having his own side story, I realized even the author was bored with the main characters, lol. I decided I could call it quits. I gave it a fair chance. Now on to new reads.
July 4, 2023
It could have been a good story.
January 4, 2024
THE MISTAKE is the third instalment in Sam Crescent’s contemporary, adult VOLKOV BRATVA dark, erotic, Bratva romance series. This is forty year old Volkov Bratva Brigadier Ive Yahantov, and eighteen year old Charlotte’s story line. THE MISTAKE should not be read as a stand alone as it picks up after the events of book two-A SENSE OF DUTY.
NOTE: Due to the nature of the story line premise there WILL BE triggers for more sensitive readers.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Ive and Charlotte) covering approximately three years, THE MISTAKE follows in the aftermath of the abduction and imprisonment of our story line heroine. Charlotte was the abused and neglected daughter of former president of the Evil Savages MC, and in an attempt to take down the man in charge, Charlotte was kidnapped by the Volkov Bratva, and held prisoner by the man with whom she would fall in love. An unwanted marriage but the promise of protection meant Charlotte was once again a prisoner but a prisoner in a gilded cage. As the weeks and months went by, Charlotte would struggle with her husband’s absences in the face of ongoing rejection and deep seated humiliation but Ive’s position as second in command meant taking down the people taking aim at his world, a world that now included our story line heroine. What ensues is the building relationship and love between Charlotte and Ive, and the potential fall-out as an impending war for power and control will target the woman with whom Ive’s has fallen in love.
The world building follows several paths including the previous abuse and humiliation of our story line heroine. Charlotte is broken; unwanted and destroyed; a shell of a human being and in this Charlotte struggles to accept anything good. With issues of trust, having been beaten and abused, Charlotte believes it is only a matter of time before her life, such as it is, comes to an end. As Ive must ferret out and take down the people targeting the Bratva, his wife often feels abandoned and unwelcome.
The relationship between Ive and Charlotte begins as an abduction, imprisonment and a forced marriage to tentatively unite the Bratva and the Evil Savages MC. Charlotte believes she was never the intended target or bride to be but Ive will have to prove to his bride, that she is the woman he wants for his happily ever after. The $ex scenes are intimate and provocative.
There is a large ensemble cast of colorful, powerful and questionable secondary and supporting characters including Volkov Pakhan Ivan Volkov, Andrei and Adelaide (A Sense of Duty 2), Aurora and Slavik Ivanov (Second Best 1), Charlotte’s security Hubert, as well as MC MC President Rage, and Charlotte’s sister Cassie- both of whom are questionable as to their lack of support and protecton for our story line heroine. The requisite evil has many faces.
THE MISTAKE is a heart breaking and emotional story of power and control, abuse and neglect, betrayal and vengeance, acceptance and love. The premise is dark, dramatic and intense; the age-gap romance is passionate; the characters are broken, desperate and determined. The epilogue fast forwards approximately two years
Heed my trigger warnings.
www.thereadingcafe.com
copy supplied for review
NOTE: Due to the nature of the story line premise there WILL BE triggers for more sensitive readers.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Ive and Charlotte) covering approximately three years, THE MISTAKE follows in the aftermath of the abduction and imprisonment of our story line heroine. Charlotte was the abused and neglected daughter of former president of the Evil Savages MC, and in an attempt to take down the man in charge, Charlotte was kidnapped by the Volkov Bratva, and held prisoner by the man with whom she would fall in love. An unwanted marriage but the promise of protection meant Charlotte was once again a prisoner but a prisoner in a gilded cage. As the weeks and months went by, Charlotte would struggle with her husband’s absences in the face of ongoing rejection and deep seated humiliation but Ive’s position as second in command meant taking down the people taking aim at his world, a world that now included our story line heroine. What ensues is the building relationship and love between Charlotte and Ive, and the potential fall-out as an impending war for power and control will target the woman with whom Ive’s has fallen in love.
The world building follows several paths including the previous abuse and humiliation of our story line heroine. Charlotte is broken; unwanted and destroyed; a shell of a human being and in this Charlotte struggles to accept anything good. With issues of trust, having been beaten and abused, Charlotte believes it is only a matter of time before her life, such as it is, comes to an end. As Ive must ferret out and take down the people targeting the Bratva, his wife often feels abandoned and unwelcome.
The relationship between Ive and Charlotte begins as an abduction, imprisonment and a forced marriage to tentatively unite the Bratva and the Evil Savages MC. Charlotte believes she was never the intended target or bride to be but Ive will have to prove to his bride, that she is the woman he wants for his happily ever after. The $ex scenes are intimate and provocative.
There is a large ensemble cast of colorful, powerful and questionable secondary and supporting characters including Volkov Pakhan Ivan Volkov, Andrei and Adelaide (A Sense of Duty 2), Aurora and Slavik Ivanov (Second Best 1), Charlotte’s security Hubert, as well as MC MC President Rage, and Charlotte’s sister Cassie- both of whom are questionable as to their lack of support and protecton for our story line heroine. The requisite evil has many faces.
THE MISTAKE is a heart breaking and emotional story of power and control, abuse and neglect, betrayal and vengeance, acceptance and love. The premise is dark, dramatic and intense; the age-gap romance is passionate; the characters are broken, desperate and determined. The epilogue fast forwards approximately two years
Heed my trigger warnings.
www.thereadingcafe.com
copy supplied for review
August 11, 2023
3.9 stars out of 5 (standard rounding rules apply)
*Protect yourself, check the TWs and CWs*
The story was a good one, with relatable characters and an overall intriguing story with spice. However, there were some areas within the story that left me wanting for more. With the way the book starts there was an expectation that wasn't met fully - which compared to others within this stand-alone series was disappointing.
Charlotte is our female main and she has known nothing but abuse in her life. She was the unwanted daughter, and as such was treated like trash - in so many harsh ways. She was kidnapped by the Bratva... accidentally (which we had found out in the second book of this series). Charlotte is unsure of herself in many instances, but it was wonderful to see her grow as a character throughout the book. There was quite a bit of growth for her; but it was realistic with steps forward, and some back. This is something I appreciated.
Ive is the main male character, and he never wanted to get married... especially to someone as young as Charlotte. However, when it is dictated that she is to be his bride he takes steps to make sure that she is cared for and never treated poorly. Ive himself has a tragic backstory that dictates some of the actions and moves he makes within the story. His growth was not as major as Charlotte's but it still there with the similar realism of a few steps forward and some back. Character growth as a whole is something that Sam Crescent does magnificently.
It takes a while for the two of them to come together intimately - but when they do... The spice and steam level are a two-point-five/three chili-peppers out of five chili-peppers. (Please keep in mind this is a personal opinion and may be more or less for you.) There are some scenes that some readers could find as adventurous adult time within the book; but every time the steam and spice start it doesn't leave you wanting more.
One of the biggest issues I had with this storyline would be that the beginning alludes to something big happening - someone taking Charlotte from Ive. However, we don't get to that part of the story under years (I believe about 2 years) after they have been married and it happens very quickly - probably not more than one or two chapters long. We were teased in the beginning and then it fell kind of flat as there was hardly any lead up to it before it was there right at the end.
As a whole this novel was good, and I would recommend it. This whole series really. While it is a stand-alone series, it would be my recommendation to read the other two novels as the characters come back and things are referenced (though nothing that would prevent you from keeping up with the story.) I look forward to the rest of the series.
I was gifted this novel, in which created this wonderful opportunity for me to share my honest thoughts, feelings and opinions about it.
*Protect yourself, check the TWs and CWs*
The story was a good one, with relatable characters and an overall intriguing story with spice. However, there were some areas within the story that left me wanting for more. With the way the book starts there was an expectation that wasn't met fully - which compared to others within this stand-alone series was disappointing.
Charlotte is our female main and she has known nothing but abuse in her life. She was the unwanted daughter, and as such was treated like trash - in so many harsh ways. She was kidnapped by the Bratva... accidentally (which we had found out in the second book of this series). Charlotte is unsure of herself in many instances, but it was wonderful to see her grow as a character throughout the book. There was quite a bit of growth for her; but it was realistic with steps forward, and some back. This is something I appreciated.
Ive is the main male character, and he never wanted to get married... especially to someone as young as Charlotte. However, when it is dictated that she is to be his bride he takes steps to make sure that she is cared for and never treated poorly. Ive himself has a tragic backstory that dictates some of the actions and moves he makes within the story. His growth was not as major as Charlotte's but it still there with the similar realism of a few steps forward and some back. Character growth as a whole is something that Sam Crescent does magnificently.
It takes a while for the two of them to come together intimately - but when they do... The spice and steam level are a two-point-five/three chili-peppers out of five chili-peppers. (Please keep in mind this is a personal opinion and may be more or less for you.) There are some scenes that some readers could find as adventurous adult time within the book; but every time the steam and spice start it doesn't leave you wanting more.
One of the biggest issues I had with this storyline would be that the beginning alludes to something big happening - someone taking Charlotte from Ive. However, we don't get to that part of the story under years (I believe about 2 years) after they have been married and it happens very quickly - probably not more than one or two chapters long. We were teased in the beginning and then it fell kind of flat as there was hardly any lead up to it before it was there right at the end.
As a whole this novel was good, and I would recommend it. This whole series really. While it is a stand-alone series, it would be my recommendation to read the other two novels as the characters come back and things are referenced (though nothing that would prevent you from keeping up with the story.) I look forward to the rest of the series.
I was gifted this novel, in which created this wonderful opportunity for me to share my honest thoughts, feelings and opinions about it.
November 2, 2023
Ive was a complicated man, who really wasn't all that complicated in what he wanted in life, until her. All he wanted was to do his job well and without too much hassle, and Charlotte becoming his wife was the definition of inconvenient to him. There is nothing sweet about Ive, except all the ways that he grows to care and provide for Charlotte.
"Yeah, that was a real fucking surprise to me as well. I actually wanted to spend time with my wife. It was unexpected. I had started to look forward to seeing her. No woman had ever left me feeling that way. This was all new to me." - Ive
Ive spent a great deal of time fighting his desire for his wife, but even then, he always treated her well and protected her feelings. He was gentle and seemed to always know the right thing to say to guide her into finding herself worthy of living. Ive complains time and time again that he never wanted to be married, least of all to a woman so young, but from the first day he treated her with respect and strove to make her happy while putting her safety first.
Charlotte had a horrible life and at the beginning of the book she had very little self-esteem or confidence. Despite everything she had endured, Charlotte was very sweet, open, and honest, although understandably guarded when she wasn't positive her thoughts were truly wanted. The author did a great job of showing her growth as a person throughout the story and her slow-burn romance with Ive.
For being a scary, brutal mafia boss, I couldn't stop picturing Ivan as a fairy godmother of sorts. He immediately took Charlotte under his wing, and though he continued to manipulate situations, I really did think he had her best interests at heart. I smiled every time he goaded Ive into being a better husband to Charlotte.
My one disappointment was how rushed the ending of the book was. The reader knows something bad is going to happen but as the pages went by and I got closer to the end of the story, I realized that the confrontation would be quick. I would have loved a more drawn-out ending, however, I appreciated the page space Charlotte and Ive's relationship got so that would have meant a longer page count.
"The one thing I know from my short existence: life is real fucking cruel." - Charlotte
I haven't read a ton of Mafia books, but this one was a great read. There wasn't a ton of gore/violence despite people being killed, and the characters were morally grey but had hard limits on innocents. While Charlotte and Ive's relationship ends on a HEA, there is plenty of setup for more books in the series and clearly more to come from the Volkov Bratva.
More reviews at www.ratherbookish.com
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you BookSirens and Evernight Publishing for the opportunity.
"Yeah, that was a real fucking surprise to me as well. I actually wanted to spend time with my wife. It was unexpected. I had started to look forward to seeing her. No woman had ever left me feeling that way. This was all new to me." - Ive
Ive spent a great deal of time fighting his desire for his wife, but even then, he always treated her well and protected her feelings. He was gentle and seemed to always know the right thing to say to guide her into finding herself worthy of living. Ive complains time and time again that he never wanted to be married, least of all to a woman so young, but from the first day he treated her with respect and strove to make her happy while putting her safety first.
Charlotte had a horrible life and at the beginning of the book she had very little self-esteem or confidence. Despite everything she had endured, Charlotte was very sweet, open, and honest, although understandably guarded when she wasn't positive her thoughts were truly wanted. The author did a great job of showing her growth as a person throughout the story and her slow-burn romance with Ive.
For being a scary, brutal mafia boss, I couldn't stop picturing Ivan as a fairy godmother of sorts. He immediately took Charlotte under his wing, and though he continued to manipulate situations, I really did think he had her best interests at heart. I smiled every time he goaded Ive into being a better husband to Charlotte.
My one disappointment was how rushed the ending of the book was. The reader knows something bad is going to happen but as the pages went by and I got closer to the end of the story, I realized that the confrontation would be quick. I would have loved a more drawn-out ending, however, I appreciated the page space Charlotte and Ive's relationship got so that would have meant a longer page count.
"The one thing I know from my short existence: life is real fucking cruel." - Charlotte
I haven't read a ton of Mafia books, but this one was a great read. There wasn't a ton of gore/violence despite people being killed, and the characters were morally grey but had hard limits on innocents. While Charlotte and Ive's relationship ends on a HEA, there is plenty of setup for more books in the series and clearly more to come from the Volkov Bratva.
More reviews at www.ratherbookish.com
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you BookSirens and Evernight Publishing for the opportunity.
September 7, 2024
The Mistake - The Volkov Bratva - Book 3 - By Sam Crescent
This is the third book in the Volkov Bratva series and it features on Ive/Ivan Yahontov one of Ivan Volkov's top brigadiers and controllers of part of the Bratva's territory. When
Lottie/Charlotte is captured to be used against her father Demon the leader of the Evil Savages MC the Bratva realise they have made a grave error. They have taken the wrong daughter. Instead of the clubs princess Charlotte's sister Cassie, Charlotte was captured and held much to the delight of her despicable father. At nineteen Charlotte has been through so much, hurt, loss and fear some people wouldn't of made it as far as she had. Even though older than her years and still fearful she was a lot stronger than even she realised. She had a kindness and an ability to love that hadn't been crushed. No one seemed to notice until Ivan Volkov saw it within her. When Ive's boss Ivan decided he needed him to marry, Ive didn't question it, he didn't want it but still went ahead. At forty years old he had no intention of marrying anyone with his own past he was happy with his life and his place within the Bratva but no one questions Ivan's word. I enjoyed seeing another side to Ive, we still got the bratva brigadier, torturer but we also got to see a whole other side that he reserved just for Charlotte and it was everything i was hoping for and more. This is a well written age gap romance filled with Bratva style wars and action, circumstances that are answered by torture and violence but also show a hero and heroine who are both learning to trust one another and trying to find a way to make their situation and blossoming relationship work. They have fears naturally but their chemistry and connection is undeniable, they allow themselves to become closer and then the heat really turns up. I really enjoyed how they grew closer with a little help from Ivan who meddles in the best of ways, he really needs to open a matchmaking service up if he ever fancies a career change, he has a gift no doubt! It was nice briefly seeing previous matched couples return, The beast and The Butcher are another intriguing duo I can't wait to learn more about either and both of them, there are also still more brigadiers to be matched up and so much still to look forward to. I can't wait! Happy Reading.
Please note that I was given an arc of this book for my honest review which is exactly what I have given.
5 out of 5 stars.
This is the third book in the Volkov Bratva series and it features on Ive/Ivan Yahontov one of Ivan Volkov's top brigadiers and controllers of part of the Bratva's territory. When
Lottie/Charlotte is captured to be used against her father Demon the leader of the Evil Savages MC the Bratva realise they have made a grave error. They have taken the wrong daughter. Instead of the clubs princess Charlotte's sister Cassie, Charlotte was captured and held much to the delight of her despicable father. At nineteen Charlotte has been through so much, hurt, loss and fear some people wouldn't of made it as far as she had. Even though older than her years and still fearful she was a lot stronger than even she realised. She had a kindness and an ability to love that hadn't been crushed. No one seemed to notice until Ivan Volkov saw it within her. When Ive's boss Ivan decided he needed him to marry, Ive didn't question it, he didn't want it but still went ahead. At forty years old he had no intention of marrying anyone with his own past he was happy with his life and his place within the Bratva but no one questions Ivan's word. I enjoyed seeing another side to Ive, we still got the bratva brigadier, torturer but we also got to see a whole other side that he reserved just for Charlotte and it was everything i was hoping for and more. This is a well written age gap romance filled with Bratva style wars and action, circumstances that are answered by torture and violence but also show a hero and heroine who are both learning to trust one another and trying to find a way to make their situation and blossoming relationship work. They have fears naturally but their chemistry and connection is undeniable, they allow themselves to become closer and then the heat really turns up. I really enjoyed how they grew closer with a little help from Ivan who meddles in the best of ways, he really needs to open a matchmaking service up if he ever fancies a career change, he has a gift no doubt! It was nice briefly seeing previous matched couples return, The beast and The Butcher are another intriguing duo I can't wait to learn more about either and both of them, there are also still more brigadiers to be matched up and so much still to look forward to. I can't wait! Happy Reading.
Please note that I was given an arc of this book for my honest review which is exactly what I have given.
5 out of 5 stars.
August 29, 2023
Where do I begin? This was the slowest, repetitive and boring novel that I have read in a while. I have tried reading this author before and have ended up returning the book or just deleting it before I finished it, but decided to give this series a try because of the lack of quality of some of the books available at this time in this genre. I made myself finish this story, even though I power read and skimmed the last half of the book. It was a purchase I won't be doing in the future, nor will I be reading the other two books in this series. This is an age gap novel even though that is not noted in the blurb.
The writing was something I would expects from a high school student in a beginning writing class. It was choppy, with gaping holes that were never addressed or explained and felt very unprofessional. I found the writing style very odd. Too much emphasis on minutia and too little emphasis of actual content that could of added to the storyline and substance issues the characters were missing. Charlotte's daddy issues were OTT dominating the story which left this poor abused character with little to work with.
Charlotte was a very young (too young) character that responded like a beaten puppy throughout the novel because of her childhood and her father's brutality. She was too naïve, had no spirit or backbone and engaged in repetitive dialogue. It is like the author didn't even know how to aptly describe her. By the time she and Ive have sex it's like watching a young girl have her first school crush on a boy. Of course she falls in love with Ive's orgasms' and sex as all these broken young girls do in these novels. The maturity just isn't there leaving the reader to endure Charlotte's character as she attempts to grow up.
I gave the book a 2 because of Ive's character. His characters goes out of his way to soften his hard side and stance on this forced marriage (no explanation as to why) and bring Charlotte into his life and his fold. She does make it easy by pledging over and over, her allegiance to the Volkov Bratva. I lost count of the number of times she pledged her allegiance. I guess she thought that was the only card she could play if she wanted to stay alive.
I highly advise that you shop around before you purchase this series.
The writing was something I would expects from a high school student in a beginning writing class. It was choppy, with gaping holes that were never addressed or explained and felt very unprofessional. I found the writing style very odd. Too much emphasis on minutia and too little emphasis of actual content that could of added to the storyline and substance issues the characters were missing. Charlotte's daddy issues were OTT dominating the story which left this poor abused character with little to work with.
Charlotte was a very young (too young) character that responded like a beaten puppy throughout the novel because of her childhood and her father's brutality. She was too naïve, had no spirit or backbone and engaged in repetitive dialogue. It is like the author didn't even know how to aptly describe her. By the time she and Ive have sex it's like watching a young girl have her first school crush on a boy. Of course she falls in love with Ive's orgasms' and sex as all these broken young girls do in these novels. The maturity just isn't there leaving the reader to endure Charlotte's character as she attempts to grow up.
I gave the book a 2 because of Ive's character. His characters goes out of his way to soften his hard side and stance on this forced marriage (no explanation as to why) and bring Charlotte into his life and his fold. She does make it easy by pledging over and over, her allegiance to the Volkov Bratva. I lost count of the number of times she pledged her allegiance. I guess she thought that was the only card she could play if she wanted to stay alive.
I highly advise that you shop around before you purchase this series.
August 2, 2023
“Charlotte had wanted a kiss. She had chosen affection.”
Ok, it’s official, this is Sam’s best series ever! This book is amazing, just like the first two were. Ive was so not what I expected and Charlotte broke my heart. They were so great together in every way. I questioned Ivan pairing them but as usual he was one hundred percent correct. Theirs is no instalove. Instead we get to enjoy watching them get to know each other and build a relationship as they fall in love. Ivan claims Ive is the least romantic of his men but I think in many ways their love story is the most romantic of all.
As usual Ivan stole every scene he was in. I am so in love with this man I can’t stand it! He’s incredible, the most interesting and fascinating character Sam has ever written about. We got to see a completely different side to him in this book. He really connected with Charlotte and I loved watching him play with her. We know based on info provided throughout the three books that Ivan grew up without love or a real family, broken, unwanted and discarded as if he was nothing. I think despite how he overcame it all, it still is a part of him and that’s why it’s so important to him that his men find the very things he never had: love, family and happiness. The Beast commented that many believe Ivan has a thing for the unwanted. It’s clearly true. His men all came from dreadful pasts and he finds broken, unwanted women with hearts of gold for each of them. He’s an extraordinarily perceptive matchmaker, too, knowing exactly who is perfect for who. This is demonstrated most clearly in this book. No one else would have been able to reach Charlotte and bring her out. And no one but Charlotte could have ever found the heart Ive had buried so deep. Such a violent man and yet he was unwavering in his protective, calm patience with her.
Unlike past books this one takes place spread out over three years. I think it’s because of the plots of future other books. And while it could be read as a standalone, my advice is to start with the first book, Second Best, or, at the very least, book two, A Sense of Duty. There is a lot of set up in the second book for this one and you don’t want to miss it. I can’t wait to see what’s next!.
Ok, it’s official, this is Sam’s best series ever! This book is amazing, just like the first two were. Ive was so not what I expected and Charlotte broke my heart. They were so great together in every way. I questioned Ivan pairing them but as usual he was one hundred percent correct. Theirs is no instalove. Instead we get to enjoy watching them get to know each other and build a relationship as they fall in love. Ivan claims Ive is the least romantic of his men but I think in many ways their love story is the most romantic of all.
As usual Ivan stole every scene he was in. I am so in love with this man I can’t stand it! He’s incredible, the most interesting and fascinating character Sam has ever written about. We got to see a completely different side to him in this book. He really connected with Charlotte and I loved watching him play with her. We know based on info provided throughout the three books that Ivan grew up without love or a real family, broken, unwanted and discarded as if he was nothing. I think despite how he overcame it all, it still is a part of him and that’s why it’s so important to him that his men find the very things he never had: love, family and happiness. The Beast commented that many believe Ivan has a thing for the unwanted. It’s clearly true. His men all came from dreadful pasts and he finds broken, unwanted women with hearts of gold for each of them. He’s an extraordinarily perceptive matchmaker, too, knowing exactly who is perfect for who. This is demonstrated most clearly in this book. No one else would have been able to reach Charlotte and bring her out. And no one but Charlotte could have ever found the heart Ive had buried so deep. Such a violent man and yet he was unwavering in his protective, calm patience with her.
Unlike past books this one takes place spread out over three years. I think it’s because of the plots of future other books. And while it could be read as a standalone, my advice is to start with the first book, Second Best, or, at the very least, book two, A Sense of Duty. There is a lot of set up in the second book for this one and you don’t want to miss it. I can’t wait to see what’s next!.
August 4, 2023
This was a very good read. Technically, it can be read as a standalone, but I think since I read book 2 it helped me understand the backstory of these 2 characters meeting better because this book takes place some time after the fact and I just feel that the extra info and initial contact gave more context. I liked the full length although it felt like the craziness/climax of the book happened more towards the end and I thought for a minute it was going to be a cliffhanger and need another book, but it wrapped things up quickly. The epilogue felt a bit rushed kind of like a afterthought but I was waiting for what happened in the epilogue so I was glad we got it. Very minor issues with editing. For ex, the chapter with the beast and Ivan, they were talking about the butcher but kept saying beast and the beast was the one talking. Good storyline, slow burn, the steam is there and very hot, but not until a little over halfway through the book. But we got to see them build a connection/relationship although you see they still have communication issues to some extent throughout the book. As much as I understood his feelings towards rage and cassie and wishing they did more for Charlotte, I think he was a bit too harsh. Especially towards Cassie. It seems like she did as much as possible to help. I felt bad that rage was like a father figure or pseudo-dad, but their relationship kind of dwindled. I kind of wanted the relationships to strengthen not fall by the wayside. Plus I still kind of want to see Rage get a hea. Who knows, maybe next Ivan will give him a wife. Ivan was just as awesome and meddlesome as he was the last book. I'm also hoping to see a book for him where he gets someone and his own hea while he's so busy giving everyone theirs. I'm also interested in what's going to happen going forward with the butcher and the beast. Hope we get their stories. I especially wasn't expecting the revelation we got about the butcher in the end. Lots to look forward to. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 25, 2023
Part of the Volkov Bratva series each book can be read as a standalone with a sexy and the women he is forced to marry life is anything but nice 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!!!!! Charlotte I wanted to just give her the biggest hug she has been through so much at the hands of others who was supposed to love her, nearly killed by her father after being kidnapped, happiness isn’t something she has seen in a long while doesn’t expect to see, sad that she expects to die at such a young age, and to only now be married off after her father sold her up the river so to speak to a man who had no feelings or so it is rumored. Ivan sexy as all get out with a touch of craziness ….. a lot of craziness with a traumatic past that shaped him into the man he has become so forced into a marriage he didn’t want yep doesn’t make him happy he is ruthless on a good day, deadly every day, carrying never and his new bride well she pushes all the right buttons on the wrong day. But the more time they spend with/around one another learning about each other’s past they begin to heal he wants her to have the happiness she never dreamt she could have and he wants to be the one to give it to her but throw in betrayal, secrets, lies, kidnapping, will he come for her, do he want her enough to protect her, and will the find the happiness they both seek considering together they make a whole when it comes to healing?
July 4, 2023
I was sent this ARC courtesy of BookSirens. All thoughts, feelings, and opinions are my own - trust me, no one is paying me for this shit.
Right let’s get into it. My first ARC from the new website, and somewhat lack lustre in the grand scheme of things. No spoilers, Scouts Honour.
The plot - issa mafia romance, forced proximity, arranged marriage, tons of triggers so CHECK YA FUCKIN TRIGGERS PEOPLE! Won’t be telling you again. Age gap romance (18 and mid 30s I believe), slow burn, and the spice was a good 3/5 on the spice scale. Vanilla, but frequent enough for a mafia book. It’s also a HEA which I love.
Now for the issues, albeit there aren’t many. The first being that a few of the names are similar, so in some scenes, Ive was switched for Ivan and vice versa. Moreover, there are a few different POV’s in this book. There were times when it would be in one character’s POV, then in the middle for a sentence or even a paragraph, it would appear to switch to third person POV or even another character’s POV with no indication. Made for a confusing read I’ll be honest.
The MC - I have a soft spot for Charlotte I won’t lie. A lot of what she did came across as immature and juvenile but I appreciate this was a stylistic choice and context meant I understood why this was the case. However, some of her ‘drama’ moments read like something out of a Wattpad novel, without the detail and angst that usually comes with the moments. It left a few blanks for me that couldn’t be filled with context.
The male counterpart - I loved Ive, won’t even lie. We all know I love a possessive, broody, mafia man and I got him in the form of Ive. He’s got the whole ‘touch her and you die’ vibe going on, and he was ace at being a protector of my girl Charlotte so he wins brownie points for that.
Right let’s get into it. My first ARC from the new website, and somewhat lack lustre in the grand scheme of things. No spoilers, Scouts Honour.
The plot - issa mafia romance, forced proximity, arranged marriage, tons of triggers so CHECK YA FUCKIN TRIGGERS PEOPLE! Won’t be telling you again. Age gap romance (18 and mid 30s I believe), slow burn, and the spice was a good 3/5 on the spice scale. Vanilla, but frequent enough for a mafia book. It’s also a HEA which I love.
Now for the issues, albeit there aren’t many. The first being that a few of the names are similar, so in some scenes, Ive was switched for Ivan and vice versa. Moreover, there are a few different POV’s in this book. There were times when it would be in one character’s POV, then in the middle for a sentence or even a paragraph, it would appear to switch to third person POV or even another character’s POV with no indication. Made for a confusing read I’ll be honest.
The MC - I have a soft spot for Charlotte I won’t lie. A lot of what she did came across as immature and juvenile but I appreciate this was a stylistic choice and context meant I understood why this was the case. However, some of her ‘drama’ moments read like something out of a Wattpad novel, without the detail and angst that usually comes with the moments. It left a few blanks for me that couldn’t be filled with context.
The male counterpart - I loved Ive, won’t even lie. We all know I love a possessive, broody, mafia man and I got him in the form of Ive. He’s got the whole ‘touch her and you die’ vibe going on, and he was ace at being a protector of my girl Charlotte so he wins brownie points for that.
July 7, 2024
My rating: 3 stars
What I loved: I loved Charlotte(h). She is was such a strong, sweet character and my heart bleed for her because of her horrible childhood and everything she endured. I also loved Ive/Ivan(H) and how great he was with Charlotte. Him making sure she experienced all the holidays the way she should have and me loving him even more.
What I didn’t like: I really wished we got to see Charlotte’s dad being tortured. I also hated that Charlotte was kidnapped and hurt. She already suffered enough and for the boss to know it and use her to flush out the bad guys was really shitty of him. He knew how much she suffered and to have her suffer more made him an asshole. Also, I didn’t like that the h’s bodyguard died (really hate the boss).
***Major Spoilers/ Details/Triggers: The h is abused physically and emotionally growing up (h was abused and never was shown love). h is also kidnapped in the beginning of the book by the H and tortured later on in the book by the enemy. h is accidentally kidnapped by the H’s boss’s men. They was supposed to kidnap the h’s sister but instead they got the h. h is treated horribly by her father and his Mc didn’t do anything to stop it. h is told she is the trash and that is all she will ever be. When her father tells them to kill her, the H’s boss as him killed and makes the H marry her. H at first doesn’t want anything to do with the h and keep her at his country house. When the boss intervenes the H realizes that he likes his wife. H starts to show how much he cares by making sure she celebrates all the holidays like she should have when she was younger. When the h is kidnapped, the H goes to get her and tells her he loves her. He finds out that his boss knew about the kidnapping and didn’t tell him. H is mad but all is forgiven at the end. HEA with them having children.
Final thoughts: This was a 4 star read until the boss did what he did and well it lost a star. Definitely will read more from this author.
What I loved: I loved Charlotte(h). She is was such a strong, sweet character and my heart bleed for her because of her horrible childhood and everything she endured. I also loved Ive/Ivan(H) and how great he was with Charlotte. Him making sure she experienced all the holidays the way she should have and me loving him even more.
What I didn’t like: I really wished we got to see Charlotte’s dad being tortured. I also hated that Charlotte was kidnapped and hurt. She already suffered enough and for the boss to know it and use her to flush out the bad guys was really shitty of him. He knew how much she suffered and to have her suffer more made him an asshole. Also, I didn’t like that the h’s bodyguard died (really hate the boss).
***Major Spoilers/ Details/Triggers: The h is abused physically and emotionally growing up (h was abused and never was shown love). h is also kidnapped in the beginning of the book by the H and tortured later on in the book by the enemy. h is accidentally kidnapped by the H’s boss’s men. They was supposed to kidnap the h’s sister but instead they got the h. h is treated horribly by her father and his Mc didn’t do anything to stop it. h is told she is the trash and that is all she will ever be. When her father tells them to kill her, the H’s boss as him killed and makes the H marry her. H at first doesn’t want anything to do with the h and keep her at his country house. When the boss intervenes the H realizes that he likes his wife. H starts to show how much he cares by making sure she celebrates all the holidays like she should have when she was younger. When the h is kidnapped, the H goes to get her and tells her he loves her. He finds out that his boss knew about the kidnapping and didn’t tell him. H is mad but all is forgiven at the end. HEA with them having children.
Final thoughts: This was a 4 star read until the boss did what he did and well it lost a star. Definitely will read more from this author.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 3, 2025
The couple in this one, Ive and Charlotte, I absolutely adored. It took them quite a while to warm up to each other, but to me it felt natural and didnt drag (too much at least).
But then the last part of the book happened. Up to this point, I had only been mildly annoyed with Ivan's meddling and idiotic secrecy, and it was mostly because I thought he in a way stole several bonding moments between the couple. He would tell Ive what to do or how Charlotte was as a person, but for the most part this was only because he took Ive's spot in the moment, if that makes sense.
And then we get to the scene we saw in the beginning of the book, and now I've gone from mildly annoyed, to regretting ever reading this book series. First, you try to tell me they both waited three years to say "I love you", and that it had to be the same fucking day that she's kidnapped and beaten so brutally she has broken both her wrist and ankle, and injuries to her ribs. And then we find out Ivan, that fucker, KNEW she would be kidnapped, let it happen, BECAUSE HE HAD PLANNED FOR IT even since the fucking beginning, but its actually fine that the person she trusted most other than her husband to basically toss her into her torturers arms, because "he stopped the torture from being worse".
I say FUCK THAT. Its rare that I come across a book that manages to fuck up so royally in the end that it retroactively ruins the entire book, but this fucking ending is one of the worst offenders I've come across so far.
Safety details
Virgin h
Not a virgin H, we get some vague mentions to his past but nothing explicit
40sH/18-19h
Severe past abuse of the h by her father, not the H
OW drama is dealt with swiftly by H, no OM drama
But then the last part of the book happened. Up to this point, I had only been mildly annoyed with Ivan's meddling and idiotic secrecy, and it was mostly because I thought he in a way stole several bonding moments between the couple. He would tell Ive what to do or how Charlotte was as a person, but for the most part this was only because he took Ive's spot in the moment, if that makes sense.
And then we get to the scene we saw in the beginning of the book, and now I've gone from mildly annoyed, to regretting ever reading this book series. First, you try to tell me they both waited three years to say "I love you", and that it had to be the same fucking day that she's kidnapped and beaten so brutally she has broken both her wrist and ankle, and injuries to her ribs. And then we find out Ivan, that fucker, KNEW she would be kidnapped, let it happen, BECAUSE HE HAD PLANNED FOR IT even since the fucking beginning, but its actually fine that the person she trusted most other than her husband to basically toss her into her torturers arms, because "he stopped the torture from being worse".
I say FUCK THAT. Its rare that I come across a book that manages to fuck up so royally in the end that it retroactively ruins the entire book, but this fucking ending is one of the worst offenders I've come across so far.
Safety details
Virgin h
Not a virgin H, we get some vague mentions to his past but nothing explicit
40sH/18-19h
Severe past abuse of the h by her father, not the H
OW drama is dealt with swiftly by H, no OM drama
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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