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Protective Phlox
I‘d let her walk out of my life once before, but this time, she wasn’t getting away. Savannah Freeborn was mine.
I was a mafia boss’s son and she was an FBI agent, so I should’ve kept my distance. But, I didn’t. The moment I touched her I knew that my fate was sealed. We were never meant to be and as hard as I tried to get Savannah out of my blood, I couldn’t do it. Four years later, I could still taste her strawberry flavor on my tongue and smell her perfume when I closed my eyes. She was the one who got away.
Or was she?
Our worlds collide once more when a hit is placed on her life. As I race to protect her, I learn that she’s been keeping a secret from me—a secret that will change the course of our lives forever.
Savannah thinks she knows the lengths I’ll go to get what I want, but she hasn’t seen anything yet.
I was a mafia boss’s son and she was an FBI agent, so I should’ve kept my distance. But, I didn’t. The moment I touched her I knew that my fate was sealed. We were never meant to be and as hard as I tried to get Savannah out of my blood, I couldn’t do it. Four years later, I could still taste her strawberry flavor on my tongue and smell her perfume when I closed my eyes. She was the one who got away.
Or was she?
Our worlds collide once more when a hit is placed on her life. As I race to protect her, I learn that she’s been keeping a secret from me—a secret that will change the course of our lives forever.
Savannah thinks she knows the lengths I’ll go to get what I want, but she hasn’t seen anything yet.
445 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 27, 2024
264 people are currently reading
930 people want to read
About the author
Brooklyn Cross
39 books2,127 followersWriting is not just a passion for me. It is a lifeline to my sanity.
I have always loved writing but suffer from severe dyslexia and short-term memory retention issues. I struggled in school while I worked every night on re-training my brain.
I was frequently treated like I would never succeed, and I found myself putting my love for writing on a shelf.
Even at the age of six, I found it easier to communicate with animals than people, which was a big reason why I was drawn to dressage horseback riding. I remained focused on my passion for riding until I had to step away from the competition world for personal reasons.
Today, my desire for writing and storytelling has been rekindled. I have published multiple books and will never let anyone or anything hold me back again.
I am a proud romance author who offers my readers morally grey heroes, a ton of spice, epic journeys, and redemption stories.
-Follow Your Dreams-
I have always loved writing but suffer from severe dyslexia and short-term memory retention issues. I struggled in school while I worked every night on re-training my brain.
I was frequently treated like I would never succeed, and I found myself putting my love for writing on a shelf.
Even at the age of six, I found it easier to communicate with animals than people, which was a big reason why I was drawn to dressage horseback riding. I remained focused on my passion for riding until I had to step away from the competition world for personal reasons.
Today, my desire for writing and storytelling has been rekindled. I have published multiple books and will never let anyone or anything hold me back again.
I am a proud romance author who offers my readers morally grey heroes, a ton of spice, epic journeys, and redemption stories.
-Follow Your Dreams-
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 255 reviews
August 30, 2024
“I’d accepted that my life was dark as easily as I accepted that the sun would always rise in the east and set in the west, but what I hadn’t expected was you. Now, even on the stormiest of days, there is light, and that light is you. You’re my beacon to sanity, but my love, like the rest of me, comes with a dash of depraved.”
September 22, 2025
I loved it.. the FMC and MMC had a rough dynamic at first but it didn’t take long for them to fall into step with their obsession of one another. I would put this book into the “mafia lite” category personally but nonetheless it was still very good
July 1, 2025
✨4 stars✨
August 3, 2024
Protective Phlox takes place 4 years after Pucking Snowed in with the Enemy (read it first!!).
The pull between Savannah and Nathan is so strong and electrifying. You can't help but fall in love with them and their relationship. He is domineering and demanding but softens with her and their family. She is strong and not afraid to stand up to him. More importantly, she stands beside him.
The growth of these characters had me tearing up several times. Fantastic plot, action and a beautiful HEA!
The pull between Savannah and Nathan is so strong and electrifying. You can't help but fall in love with them and their relationship. He is domineering and demanding but softens with her and their family. She is strong and not afraid to stand up to him. More importantly, she stands beside him.
The growth of these characters had me tearing up several times. Fantastic plot, action and a beautiful HEA!
July 27, 2024
Rating: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
POV: dual
Tropes: MF, mafia, second chance, forced marriage, touch her and d!e breath play, forbidden, FBI agent, secret child, found family
I love me a fast paced, steamy mafia book! The chemistry between Savannah and Nathan is pure perfection! From the beginning I was hooked and the twists and surprises kept me from being able to put this one down!
FMC, Savannah is sassy, smart and feisty! I absolutely loved how she was written, especially how you could see her love for Cutter.
MMC, Nathan, is totally head over heels in love with Savannah. He’s protective, obsessive, possessive and everything you expect from a mafia man!
After 4 years, our bada$$ FBI agent and mafia heir are given a second chance. When Savannah is throwing into a world and life she was trying to avoid, sparks fly! After a hit is put out, they have no other option then to get married. Full of action, spice and adventure!
Book #1 in the California Madmen series, I CANNOT wait for book #2!
There is a novella (Pucking Snowed In With the Enemy) that gives some more info on Savannah and Nathan’s first meeting. It does not have to be read first but definitely gives more context to their relationship!
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
POV: dual
Tropes: MF, mafia, second chance, forced marriage, touch her and d!e breath play, forbidden, FBI agent, secret child, found family
I love me a fast paced, steamy mafia book! The chemistry between Savannah and Nathan is pure perfection! From the beginning I was hooked and the twists and surprises kept me from being able to put this one down!
FMC, Savannah is sassy, smart and feisty! I absolutely loved how she was written, especially how you could see her love for Cutter.
MMC, Nathan, is totally head over heels in love with Savannah. He’s protective, obsessive, possessive and everything you expect from a mafia man!
After 4 years, our bada$$ FBI agent and mafia heir are given a second chance. When Savannah is throwing into a world and life she was trying to avoid, sparks fly! After a hit is put out, they have no other option then to get married. Full of action, spice and adventure!
Book #1 in the California Madmen series, I CANNOT wait for book #2!
There is a novella (Pucking Snowed In With the Enemy) that gives some more info on Savannah and Nathan’s first meeting. It does not have to be read first but definitely gives more context to their relationship!
July 30, 2024
Who doesn't like a good strong MFC? Savannah is so bad@$$ that even I am obsessed with her. However, when Nathaniel finds out there is a hit out on her, he has to make sure she is safe. What better way to do such a thing then to marry her, Right? Mind you these two love birds have a past together which does have some perks when all is said and done. Now, what mafia man is complete without obsession, possession and control, this man does not lack and the feels are all towards Savannah. Do their worlds mesh? Nope. Do they make it work? Yep! Que in the spice on this one, some added fun never hurts but you should read to find those hidden gems yourself.
For sure 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐. Book two can not get here fast enough.
***As always check the TRIGGERS before diving into this book***
For sure 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐. Book two can not get here fast enough.
***As always check the TRIGGERS before diving into this book***
July 28, 2024
wow 🤩
♥️ MF
♥️ Mafia
♥️ Second Chance
♥️ Fast Burn
♥️ Forced Marriage
♥️ Touch Her & 💀
♥️ Breath Play
♥️ Forbidden
This book was so good, I love a good Mafia story…
This book was fast paced, gripping the plot was incredibly written, the angst & chemistry was so intense I loved it…
The mfc Savannah fbi agent, is a badass she’s such strong character I loved her..
The mmc Nate son of Mafia boss he’s protective, possessive & so hot 🥵
The chemistry between the two mc’s is incredible.
There is so many plot twists I was hooked, I could not put this book down…
"You're my wife. My only wife, forever.
Now put the ring on, or I'll have it tattooed on your finger so you can never take it off. Don't fucking test me, Savannah. I swear I'll do it."
I’m absolutely purchasing a physical copy for my bookshelf this was my first book I’ve read by Brooklyn Cross & definitely won’t be my last ♥️♥️♥️
Definitely recommend this book wow just wow don’t want to give to much away, but honestly you need to read it !!
♥️ MF
♥️ Mafia
♥️ Second Chance
♥️ Fast Burn
♥️ Forced Marriage
♥️ Touch Her & 💀
♥️ Breath Play
♥️ Forbidden
This book was so good, I love a good Mafia story…
This book was fast paced, gripping the plot was incredibly written, the angst & chemistry was so intense I loved it…
The mfc Savannah fbi agent, is a badass she’s such strong character I loved her..
The mmc Nate son of Mafia boss he’s protective, possessive & so hot 🥵
The chemistry between the two mc’s is incredible.
There is so many plot twists I was hooked, I could not put this book down…
"You're my wife. My only wife, forever.
Now put the ring on, or I'll have it tattooed on your finger so you can never take it off. Don't fucking test me, Savannah. I swear I'll do it."
I’m absolutely purchasing a physical copy for my bookshelf this was my first book I’ve read by Brooklyn Cross & definitely won’t be my last ♥️♥️♥️
Definitely recommend this book wow just wow don’t want to give to much away, but honestly you need to read it !!
July 25, 2024
Protective Phlox. California Made Men series Book 1
By Brooklyn Cross.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
This is a Dark Mafia Romance.
Always read trigger warnings!
Tropes:
🖤OMF
🖤Mafia
🖤Second Chance
🖤Secret Child
🖤Forced Marriage
🖤Dub Con
🖤Touch Her/Him & ☠️
🖤2 OTT/JP
🖤Breath Play
🖤Mild BDSM
🖤Forbidden
Protective Phlox is book 1 in the California made men series, but there is a novella which introduces Savannah and Nathan’s characters. It would behove you to read this beforehand. Although it is not entirely necessary.
As per usual, Brooklyn Cross has given us a fantastic and elaborately complex set of characters and a wonderful and well thought out narrative with lots of spice wrapped around a meaty plot line.
This story grips you like a hand necklace from the very first page right up to the end. It is utterly consuming and thoroughly enjoyable.
The storyline was sweet and heartwarming in between steamy hot scenes. The plot line was a work of pure brilliance. Delicately weaved around a mafia versus FBI narrative.
Full of drama and intense emotion, woven seductively around a whole lot of intrigue.
The side characters were well constructed and played a pivotal role in the overall storyline.
Savannah, our FMC, is feisty and brilliant. I loved her sassiness and her fire and of course the unconditional love she has for her son, Cutter.
Nathan, Our MMC, is head over heels in love with Savannah and has been ever since their first encounter, years previously.
He is pure hotness, demanding, possessive and protective everything you could possibly want in a husband… wink, wink!!
I love their dynamic, the chemistry was palpable, electric and the banter was fun and humorous at times, sizzling hot at others.
I loved this storyline to no end and cannot wait for the next instalment!!
Quote:
"You're mine Savanah," I growled. You'll live as my wife, and unless the ring is cut off your finger, you never remove it."
By Brooklyn Cross.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
This is a Dark Mafia Romance.
Always read trigger warnings!
Tropes:
🖤OMF
🖤Mafia
🖤Second Chance
🖤Secret Child
🖤Forced Marriage
🖤Dub Con
🖤Touch Her/Him & ☠️
🖤2 OTT/JP
🖤Breath Play
🖤Mild BDSM
🖤Forbidden
Protective Phlox is book 1 in the California made men series, but there is a novella which introduces Savannah and Nathan’s characters. It would behove you to read this beforehand. Although it is not entirely necessary.
As per usual, Brooklyn Cross has given us a fantastic and elaborately complex set of characters and a wonderful and well thought out narrative with lots of spice wrapped around a meaty plot line.
This story grips you like a hand necklace from the very first page right up to the end. It is utterly consuming and thoroughly enjoyable.
The storyline was sweet and heartwarming in between steamy hot scenes. The plot line was a work of pure brilliance. Delicately weaved around a mafia versus FBI narrative.
Full of drama and intense emotion, woven seductively around a whole lot of intrigue.
The side characters were well constructed and played a pivotal role in the overall storyline.
Savannah, our FMC, is feisty and brilliant. I loved her sassiness and her fire and of course the unconditional love she has for her son, Cutter.
Nathan, Our MMC, is head over heels in love with Savannah and has been ever since their first encounter, years previously.
He is pure hotness, demanding, possessive and protective everything you could possibly want in a husband… wink, wink!!
I love their dynamic, the chemistry was palpable, electric and the banter was fun and humorous at times, sizzling hot at others.
I loved this storyline to no end and cannot wait for the next instalment!!
Quote:
"You're mine Savanah," I growled. You'll live as my wife, and unless the ring is cut off your finger, you never remove it."
August 9, 2024
Just what I needed to get myself out a book slump and did it ever!!!!
Nothing I love more in a book than a protective, obsessive, Aholish MMC and a strong, independent, take no crap FMC. That's exactly what this book has, and I ate it right up!
Savannah and Nathanial's relationship is like no other and I am here for it.
You see, Savannah and Nathan had a thing together in the past, until they both decided to go their separate ways. Savannah now a FBI agent stationed in Italy and Nathanial, who of course is part of the mafia, are about to be reunited in a very unconventional way lol.
And what does Nathan do once he has Savannah and her son in his grasp? Well, he's going to force her to marry him and to make it well known, she is his, forever.
But as we all know, things in the mafia aren't black and white, and if someone wants to be top dog, they will do everything in their power to be that, even if it means spilling 🩸.
Lies, secrets, betrayal, and lots and lots of spice!!!!
I loved everything in this book. I connected with each character I met in the book, and I loved that!!! (except you Shawn.....f@*k you lol). Can't wait for more books in this series. Highly recommend this book. Check tws before reading.
Rating: 5⭐
Spicy: 4🌶️
Nothing I love more in a book than a protective, obsessive, Aholish MMC and a strong, independent, take no crap FMC. That's exactly what this book has, and I ate it right up!
Savannah and Nathanial's relationship is like no other and I am here for it.
You see, Savannah and Nathan had a thing together in the past, until they both decided to go their separate ways. Savannah now a FBI agent stationed in Italy and Nathanial, who of course is part of the mafia, are about to be reunited in a very unconventional way lol.
And what does Nathan do once he has Savannah and her son in his grasp? Well, he's going to force her to marry him and to make it well known, she is his, forever.
But as we all know, things in the mafia aren't black and white, and if someone wants to be top dog, they will do everything in their power to be that, even if it means spilling 🩸.
Lies, secrets, betrayal, and lots and lots of spice!!!!
I loved everything in this book. I connected with each character I met in the book, and I loved that!!! (except you Shawn.....f@*k you lol). Can't wait for more books in this series. Highly recommend this book. Check tws before reading.
Rating: 5⭐
Spicy: 4🌶️
August 30, 2025
This is a Second Chance Dark Mafia Romantic Suspense, and this is the first book in the California Made Men series. I really loved the characters in this book, and the little boy was so cute. there was a great mix of drama, cute moments, romance, and steamy moments in this book. There is a twist in this book that I found was good. I really enjoyed reading this book. I did not feel everything in this book was totally worked out by the end of the book which left me really wanting to read the next book. I received an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion about the book like all my reviews are.
July 31, 2024
This book was absolutely amazing from the Prologue to the Epilogue! This was my FIRST Brooklyn Cross book, and it won't be my last! The undying love between Nate and Savannah had me yearning for a love like that! The lengths that true love will send you to. This is one of my fav reads of 2024.
August 10, 2024
Mafia romance ✔️
Secret pregnancy ✔️
Touch her and die vibes ✔️
The blurb for this had me hooked, an fbi agent falling for a Mafia heir - yes please!
I loved the secret pregnancy element, loved the love at first site for Nathaniel when he saw Cutter. I love a man who's all in with his kids and would do anything to protect them.
For an fbi and Mafia romance I was expecting more resistance to the love, and a bit of a darker read. That very well could be me having read some darker stuff recently. Saying that, it was a good read.
Thank you Brooklyn Cross for the opportunity to ARC read this book.
Secret pregnancy ✔️
Touch her and die vibes ✔️
The blurb for this had me hooked, an fbi agent falling for a Mafia heir - yes please!
I loved the secret pregnancy element, loved the love at first site for Nathaniel when he saw Cutter. I love a man who's all in with his kids and would do anything to protect them.
For an fbi and Mafia romance I was expecting more resistance to the love, and a bit of a darker read. That very well could be me having read some darker stuff recently. Saying that, it was a good read.
Thank you Brooklyn Cross for the opportunity to ARC read this book.
July 29, 2024
"𝘐‘𝘥 𝘭𝘦𝘵 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘸𝘢𝘭𝘬 𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘮𝘺 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦 𝘰𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘦, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘵𝘪𝘮𝘦, 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘴𝘯’𝘵 𝘨𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘸𝘢𝘺. 𝘚𝘢𝘷𝘢𝘯𝘯𝘢𝘩 𝘍𝘳𝘦𝘦𝘣𝘰𝘳𝘯 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘦"
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
I am a sucker for my Dark Mafia Romance. But this book is prefect blend of everything including dark romance, second chance, forced marriage what not. And everything is plot is placed so beautifully that you can envision it.. I LOVED IT..
𝘞𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘦𝘹𝘱𝘦𝘤𝘵:
🖤𝘔𝘢𝘧𝘪𝘢 𝘹 𝘍𝘉𝘐 𝘢𝘨𝘦𝘯𝘵
🖤𝘚𝘦𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘥 𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦
🖤𝘍𝘰𝘳𝘤𝘦𝘥 𝘮𝘢𝘳𝘳𝘪𝘢𝘨𝘦
🖤𝘛����𝘶𝘤𝘩 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘥!𝘦
🖤𝘉𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘩 𝘱𝘭𝘢𝘺
🖤𝘍𝘰𝘳𝘣𝘪𝘥𝘥𝘦𝘯
🖤𝘚𝘦𝘤𝘳𝘦𝘵 𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥 (𝘤𝘶𝘵𝘦𝘴𝘵)
🖤𝘍𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘥 𝘧𝘢𝘮𝘪𝘭𝘺
🖤 𝘔𝘺 𝘸𝘪𝘧𝘦
Savannah is a dedicated FBI agent, intelligent and fierce. She is so beautifully written in the book. Her devotion, love and her aura was perfectly drawn.
Nathaniel Mikhailov is the next in line ruthless mafia son. He is sexy, possessive, obsessive. And he says "My Wife" and get turned on when she show her fierce side to him..
"𝘚𝘩𝘦 𝘮𝘢𝘥𝘦 𝘮𝘺 𝘣𝘭𝘰𝘰𝘥 𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘮𝘺 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘱𝘶𝘳𝘱𝘰𝘴𝘦, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘺 𝘴𝘰𝘶𝘭 𝘧𝘦𝘦𝘭 𝘸𝘩𝘰𝘭𝘦.”
The dialogues, the backstory and the placements were so good.
"𝘠𝘰𝘶'𝘳𝘦 𝘮𝘺 𝘸𝘪𝘧𝘦. 𝘔𝘺 𝘰𝘯𝘭𝘺 𝘸𝘪𝘧𝘦, 𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳. 𝘕𝘰𝘸 𝘱𝘶𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘰𝘯, 𝘰𝘳 𝘐'𝘭𝘭 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘪𝘵 𝘵𝘢𝘵𝘵𝘰𝘰𝘦𝘥 𝘰𝘯 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘦𝘳 𝘴𝘰 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘯𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘵𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘪𝘵 𝘰𝘧𝘧. 𝘋𝘰𝘯'𝘵 𝘧𝘶𝘤𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘮𝘦, 𝘚𝘢𝘷𝘢𝘯𝘯𝘢𝘩. 𝘐 𝘴𝘸𝘦𝘢𝘳 𝘐'𝘭𝘭 𝘥𝘰 𝘪𝘵."
I really want another chapter or may be two or may be three.. Call me greedy I won't mind.. The epilogue is 🤌🏼💋 and can't wait for book 2..
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
I am a sucker for my Dark Mafia Romance. But this book is prefect blend of everything including dark romance, second chance, forced marriage what not. And everything is plot is placed so beautifully that you can envision it.. I LOVED IT..
𝘞𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘦𝘹𝘱𝘦𝘤𝘵:
🖤𝘔𝘢𝘧𝘪𝘢 𝘹 𝘍𝘉𝘐 𝘢𝘨𝘦𝘯𝘵
🖤𝘚𝘦𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘥 𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦
🖤𝘍𝘰𝘳𝘤𝘦𝘥 𝘮𝘢𝘳𝘳𝘪𝘢𝘨𝘦
🖤𝘛����𝘶𝘤𝘩 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘥!𝘦
🖤𝘉𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘩 𝘱𝘭𝘢𝘺
🖤𝘍𝘰𝘳𝘣𝘪𝘥𝘥𝘦𝘯
🖤𝘚𝘦𝘤𝘳𝘦𝘵 𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥 (𝘤𝘶𝘵𝘦𝘴𝘵)
🖤𝘍𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘥 𝘧𝘢𝘮𝘪𝘭𝘺
🖤 𝘔𝘺 𝘸𝘪𝘧𝘦
Savannah is a dedicated FBI agent, intelligent and fierce. She is so beautifully written in the book. Her devotion, love and her aura was perfectly drawn.
Nathaniel Mikhailov is the next in line ruthless mafia son. He is sexy, possessive, obsessive. And he says "My Wife" and get turned on when she show her fierce side to him..
"𝘚𝘩𝘦 𝘮𝘢𝘥𝘦 𝘮𝘺 𝘣𝘭𝘰𝘰𝘥 𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘮𝘺 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘱𝘶𝘳𝘱𝘰𝘴𝘦, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘺 𝘴𝘰𝘶𝘭 𝘧𝘦𝘦𝘭 𝘸𝘩𝘰𝘭𝘦.”
The dialogues, the backstory and the placements were so good.
"𝘠𝘰𝘶'𝘳𝘦 𝘮𝘺 𝘸𝘪𝘧𝘦. 𝘔𝘺 𝘰𝘯𝘭𝘺 𝘸𝘪𝘧𝘦, 𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳. 𝘕𝘰𝘸 𝘱𝘶𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘰𝘯, 𝘰𝘳 𝘐'𝘭𝘭 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘪𝘵 𝘵𝘢𝘵𝘵𝘰𝘰𝘦𝘥 𝘰𝘯 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘦𝘳 𝘴𝘰 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘯𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘵𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘪𝘵 𝘰𝘧𝘧. 𝘋𝘰𝘯'𝘵 𝘧𝘶𝘤𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘮𝘦, 𝘚𝘢𝘷𝘢𝘯𝘯𝘢𝘩. 𝘐 𝘴𝘸𝘦𝘢𝘳 𝘐'𝘭𝘭 𝘥𝘰 𝘪𝘵."
I really want another chapter or may be two or may be three.. Call me greedy I won't mind.. The epilogue is 🤌🏼💋 and can't wait for book 2..
Read
August 11, 2024dnf @34%
There‘s no buildup at all and I‘m struggling to relate to these characters never mind care about their relationship.
There‘s no buildup at all and I‘m struggling to relate to these characters never mind care about their relationship.
July 27, 2024
“Without you, my soul would be lost forever in an ocean of despair.”
Brooklyn Cross has a way of writing that throws her readers headfirst into the complex detailed world she has created and envelops them in her beautifully written stories. Protective Phlox is more than just a mafia romance. It is a story filled with action, violence, suspense, and soul consuming passion. Protective Phlox is book one in the California Made Men series and is just the beginning of this intense journey.
**I highly recommend reading fucking snowed in with the enemy first. It is not mandatory, but it will definitely enhance this read.**
Savannah is a dedicated FBI agent, alluring , smart and fierce mama bear.
“The angrier he got, the more turned on I was. I wanted to stay naked in a walk-in freezer.”
Nathan is the next in line ruthless mafia son, enterprising, sexy , obsessive, possessive, powerful and quick to action.
“There was something seriously wrong with me because the angrier she got, the more I wanted her. The unhealthy level of obsession running through my body would have anyone else committed. She made my blood sing my heart with purpose, and my soul feel whole.”
Both are hardheaded, defensive, and guarded. Plagued with drama and intense undeniable chemistry Nathan and Savannah must come to grips with family responsibility, deception and betrayal all while trying to establish a life together. Once able to see through the multiple complexities, be open and honest with each other and listen to their hearts a deep soul consuming love begins to flourish and the possibility of a future comes to fruition. The intimate moments range from fast and furious to heartfelt steamy passion. All written fabulously.
Every one of the characters are very charismatic and the side ones add layers of emotion and depth to the story. (Titus in particular for me) Hailey and Holly are perfection.
“You are the only woman who will ever touch my heart, soothe my soul, or quiet the demons that claw at my mind. You’re mine as I am yours.”
I truly loved this entire read from start to finish I didn’t want it to end. The epilogue is 🤌🏼💋. I have read multiple books written by Brooklyn Cross, and have yet to be disappointed. I look forward to what comes next.
Brooklyn Cross has a way of writing that throws her readers headfirst into the complex detailed world she has created and envelops them in her beautifully written stories. Protective Phlox is more than just a mafia romance. It is a story filled with action, violence, suspense, and soul consuming passion. Protective Phlox is book one in the California Made Men series and is just the beginning of this intense journey.
**I highly recommend reading fucking snowed in with the enemy first. It is not mandatory, but it will definitely enhance this read.**
Savannah is a dedicated FBI agent, alluring , smart and fierce mama bear.
“The angrier he got, the more turned on I was. I wanted to stay naked in a walk-in freezer.”
Nathan is the next in line ruthless mafia son, enterprising, sexy , obsessive, possessive, powerful and quick to action.
“There was something seriously wrong with me because the angrier she got, the more I wanted her. The unhealthy level of obsession running through my body would have anyone else committed. She made my blood sing my heart with purpose, and my soul feel whole.”
Both are hardheaded, defensive, and guarded. Plagued with drama and intense undeniable chemistry Nathan and Savannah must come to grips with family responsibility, deception and betrayal all while trying to establish a life together. Once able to see through the multiple complexities, be open and honest with each other and listen to their hearts a deep soul consuming love begins to flourish and the possibility of a future comes to fruition. The intimate moments range from fast and furious to heartfelt steamy passion. All written fabulously.
Every one of the characters are very charismatic and the side ones add layers of emotion and depth to the story. (Titus in particular for me) Hailey and Holly are perfection.
“You are the only woman who will ever touch my heart, soothe my soul, or quiet the demons that claw at my mind. You’re mine as I am yours.”
I truly loved this entire read from start to finish I didn’t want it to end. The epilogue is 🤌🏼💋. I have read multiple books written by Brooklyn Cross, and have yet to be disappointed. I look forward to what comes next.
August 4, 2024
My first Mafia Romance and first book by this author, Brooklyn Cross, and neither disappointed!
And a stunning cover too!!!
What's not to love about the MMC Nathaniel, possessive, obsessive and sexy Russian Mafia man. Our MFC is Savannah an FBI Agent who is firey, feisty and doesn't take any $hit.
I read this as a standalone as I didn't know there was a prequel 'Pucking Snowed in with the Enemy' but now I do I will be reading it! It didn't effect the story though, this one tells of how their relationship began. Protective Phlox starts 4 years after they met and hence the second chance romance.
The secret child trope is also new to me, but I think this added to the story and how the MC's connections and relationships developed, but also added a extra layers to their characters and added an extra level to their emotions and fears.
I found this a well written, fast and easy read and would 100% recommend. Once you pick it up you'll struggle to put it down.
I received this as an arc copy and want to say thank you to Brooklyn Cross for letting me read this. Sorry I'm a little late reviewing.
And a stunning cover too!!!
What's not to love about the MMC Nathaniel, possessive, obsessive and sexy Russian Mafia man. Our MFC is Savannah an FBI Agent who is firey, feisty and doesn't take any $hit.
I read this as a standalone as I didn't know there was a prequel 'Pucking Snowed in with the Enemy' but now I do I will be reading it! It didn't effect the story though, this one tells of how their relationship began. Protective Phlox starts 4 years after they met and hence the second chance romance.
The secret child trope is also new to me, but I think this added to the story and how the MC's connections and relationships developed, but also added a extra layers to their characters and added an extra level to their emotions and fears.
I found this a well written, fast and easy read and would 100% recommend. Once you pick it up you'll struggle to put it down.
I received this as an arc copy and want to say thank you to Brooklyn Cross for letting me read this. Sorry I'm a little late reviewing.
July 24, 2024
Another amazing Mafia trope book!
Once again this is a highly recommended book!! When FBI Agent Savannah kicks her fiancé out for having an affair with the neighbor she throughs his butt out in the snow naked. Runs off to California and falls in love with a Mafia boss’s son then they decide they can’t be together. They say never to contact each other no matter what, and she finds she has taken something with her when they split. His heir she is then assigned to a case in Italy where she played house with another agent who her son thinks is his dad. Nathaniel is the ruthless son of a mafia boss and is still madly in love with Savannah even after 4 years that’s all I’m giving you no more you have got to read this book! Put it on your tbr I give this book a 5-⭐️ review it has action, smut, touch her and die, great great read
Once again this is a highly recommended book!! When FBI Agent Savannah kicks her fiancé out for having an affair with the neighbor she throughs his butt out in the snow naked. Runs off to California and falls in love with a Mafia boss’s son then they decide they can’t be together. They say never to contact each other no matter what, and she finds she has taken something with her when they split. His heir she is then assigned to a case in Italy where she played house with another agent who her son thinks is his dad. Nathaniel is the ruthless son of a mafia boss and is still madly in love with Savannah even after 4 years that’s all I’m giving you no more you have got to read this book! Put it on your tbr I give this book a 5-⭐️ review it has action, smut, touch her and die, great great read
July 28, 2024
Oh look, another possessive, mildly toxic mafia man for me to love.
Seriously, I loved Nathaniel. And Savannah was full of fire and kept that fire through the whole book.
Due to the MCs having a history, this was a pretty fast burn and I enjoyed the spice throughout the book. There was a lot of sweet moments with other characters as well (without spoiling anything) and I found myself grinning at both those moments and the banter.
Both Nathan and Savannah have some seriously toxic family members and I liked how they both stood up for themselves in different ways.
There is a few things that I wish we got more of a conclusion to, but I’m looking forward to seeing those along with more of some of the other characters in next books.
This was my first read by Brooklyn and I will definitely be reading more.
Seriously, I loved Nathaniel. And Savannah was full of fire and kept that fire through the whole book.
Due to the MCs having a history, this was a pretty fast burn and I enjoyed the spice throughout the book. There was a lot of sweet moments with other characters as well (without spoiling anything) and I found myself grinning at both those moments and the banter.
Both Nathan and Savannah have some seriously toxic family members and I liked how they both stood up for themselves in different ways.
There is a few things that I wish we got more of a conclusion to, but I’m looking forward to seeing those along with more of some of the other characters in next books.
This was my first read by Brooklyn and I will definitely be reading more.
August 6, 2024
Oh man, am I so glad I read this. This was just so good. This arthurs writing just makes you feel like your part of the story as she literally will suck you into it and make all the feels for the character's come alive one word at a time. I had burned myself out from reading mafia stories and I was struggling to find one to catch my attention. Then I read the blurb and I knew I needed to get my hands on it. Best decision ever. Oh my lord the mc's Savannah and Nathan could light a forest fire anytime they were around each other the chemistry was off the hook. I would highly recommend reading this book, because you'll definitely fall in love with these character's. Cutter was just the cutest 4 yr old. I can't wait to read who's next.
July 22, 2024
4.5 stars
This book will grip you from page one. It has all the elements of a great maf!a romance. There is plenty of action, plenty of suspense with an air of danger that keeps you on the edge of your seat. Add in a soulmate type vibe between the main characters with the cutest little boy added to the mix and you’ll be flipping pages non-stop. I did read the novella, Pucking Snowed In With Enemy, that covers when Nathaniel and Savannah first meet, and while it is not necessarily vital to enjoy this book, I do highly recommend it for a fuller understanding of their relationship.
This book will grip you from page one. It has all the elements of a great maf!a romance. There is plenty of action, plenty of suspense with an air of danger that keeps you on the edge of your seat. Add in a soulmate type vibe between the main characters with the cutest little boy added to the mix and you’ll be flipping pages non-stop. I did read the novella, Pucking Snowed In With Enemy, that covers when Nathaniel and Savannah first meet, and while it is not necessarily vital to enjoy this book, I do highly recommend it for a fuller understanding of their relationship.
July 23, 2024
This was fbi agent fmc and mafia boss son mmc
It has second chance force marriage found family fast burn there’s a cross over to her other series wayward academy
Book starts off 4 years after they met he finds out there been a hit put on her and he has to go save her and in older to keep her save he has to marry her which happens literally right she very touch him and you know and his also that hate the dad already literally finished it in one sitting don’t want to give too much away but it’s a great mafia read of that what you like go in blind
It has second chance force marriage found family fast burn there’s a cross over to her other series wayward academy
Book starts off 4 years after they met he finds out there been a hit put on her and he has to go save her and in older to keep her save he has to marry her which happens literally right she very touch him and you know and his also that hate the dad already literally finished it in one sitting don’t want to give too much away but it’s a great mafia read of that what you like go in blind
July 24, 2024
Want a book with a second chance at love? An obsessive and overly protective MMC with the Russian Mafia? And a fiery FBI Agent …YES PLEASE!
Nathan and Savannah reconnect after 4 years and things are about to get explosive! Tempers and spice flare when they are thrown together again in a world Savannah has tried to avoid.
Great read! Nathan is Hot Hot Hot! 🥵 and Cutter is so cute! If you want to know what happened 4 years ago, read Pucking Snowed In With The Enemy also by Brooklyn Cross!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
Nathan and Savannah reconnect after 4 years and things are about to get explosive! Tempers and spice flare when they are thrown together again in a world Savannah has tried to avoid.
Great read! Nathan is Hot Hot Hot! 🥵 and Cutter is so cute! If you want to know what happened 4 years ago, read Pucking Snowed In With The Enemy also by Brooklyn Cross!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
August 4, 2024
Absolutely loved and devoured this book! The chemistry and passion between Savannah and Nathaniel is just insane and even though this book picks up 4 years after the novella where they meet, it’s like nothing has changed (except the addition of a child).
Nathan is a man you do not wanna mess with when it comes to Savannah or his son and he shows it time and time again in this book. I laughed, I gasped, I even teared up a few times. Brooklyn knows how to write a man that we know is crazy but we can go crazy for ourselves 🥰
Nathan is a man you do not wanna mess with when it comes to Savannah or his son and he shows it time and time again in this book. I laughed, I gasped, I even teared up a few times. Brooklyn knows how to write a man that we know is crazy but we can go crazy for ourselves 🥰
October 24, 2024
I can’t give this book enough stars!!!
If you haven’t you need to read pucking snowed in with the enemy first as this is a prequel to Nathan and Savannah’s story.
I loved everything about their story and my goodness did Nathan absolutely melt for his son and Savannah!!
He was angry with her initially and rightfully so in my opinion, but he obviously isn’t for long.
Whirlwind wedding, danger, adorable 4 year old, sassy FMC and tough cinnamon roll MMC- this book had everything I needed and more.
That HEA though was ugh so great
If you haven’t you need to read pucking snowed in with the enemy first as this is a prequel to Nathan and Savannah’s story.
I loved everything about their story and my goodness did Nathan absolutely melt for his son and Savannah!!
He was angry with her initially and rightfully so in my opinion, but he obviously isn’t for long.
Whirlwind wedding, danger, adorable 4 year old, sassy FMC and tough cinnamon roll MMC- this book had everything I needed and more.
That HEA though was ugh so great
July 27, 2024
IT'S RELEASE DAY! Protective Phlox is finally here 🥳
This book is wholesome. Finally a book where Brooklyn doesn't smash my heart into tiny pieces 😂
Let me just say that the spice is everything you've dreamed of and more 🥵🔥😍
As always this phenomenal writer has blown us away with her stories and Nathan is one sexy morally grey man 🔥
The mention of wayward academy has made me squeal out loud! I can't wait to see what this amazing author comes up with ❤️
This book is wholesome. Finally a book where Brooklyn doesn't smash my heart into tiny pieces 😂
Let me just say that the spice is everything you've dreamed of and more 🥵🔥😍
As always this phenomenal writer has blown us away with her stories and Nathan is one sexy morally grey man 🔥
The mention of wayward academy has made me squeal out loud! I can't wait to see what this amazing author comes up with ❤️
July 23, 2024
Oh where to even start with Nathan and Savannah!! These two are amazing together they may have started off rocky but they are meant to be. I highly enjoyed this one between the spice, suspense, trauma, and action!!! I love everything by Brooklyn Cross and this one blew me away! I can't wait for more by you!!
July 27, 2024
I was just dipping my toes into the mafia romance troupe. Let me just say I couldn’t put this book down, fast burn 🔥, touch her and die🖤. I think I found my new favorite troupe! What is there not to love about this book, Savannah and Nathanial 🌶️🌶️🌶️.
This was my first ever Brooklyn Cross and it did not disappoint, I cannot wait to dive into the rest of her books.
This was my first ever Brooklyn Cross and it did not disappoint, I cannot wait to dive into the rest of her books.
July 21, 2024
Holy crap, this was epic!!!! The whole storyline was absolutely phenomenal and the characters are just 🧑🍳😘 perfection. I'm so in love with the FMC and MMC, their story is absolutely incredible. I can't tell you much I loved this book. I would give my right hand for more of their story. 😍😍😍
August 18, 2024
A solid smut mafia book. I wasn’t blown away by much within the book but it’s a good palete cleanser.
July 22, 2024
Protective Phlox by Brooklyn Cross is a fast-paced, heart-pounding, steamy read that follows Mafia Don Nathaniel and FBI Agent Savannah.
I was sucked into this pulse-pounding read right from page one. Full of thrilling action and delicious spice, this book is extremely hard to put down!
I am officially obsessed with Nathaniel and will be going back to read how he and Savannah met in Pucking Snowed in With The Enemy.
If you love obsessive, protective mafia men and fiesty bad ass FMC, you do not want to miss this one!
I was sucked into this pulse-pounding read right from page one. Full of thrilling action and delicious spice, this book is extremely hard to put down!
I am officially obsessed with Nathaniel and will be going back to read how he and Savannah met in Pucking Snowed in With The Enemy.
If you love obsessive, protective mafia men and fiesty bad ass FMC, you do not want to miss this one!
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