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Wicked Vows #4
Scorch
In the dark underworld of the Russian Bratva, I’ve finally claimed the object of my obsession: Lydia Ivanova.
Beautiful and passionate, she’s fire and ice, and I want her. I need her.
Lydia is my prize. My spoils of war.
Only she doesn’t know that yet.
Forced into marriage with me to protect her from those that would destroy us, I vow to keep her secure at all costs… even when she fights me tooth and nail.
Can I protect Lydia without consuming her, or will our love story end in ashes? The stakes have never been higher, and for Lydia… I will burn the world.
Beautiful and passionate, she’s fire and ice, and I want her. I need her.
Lydia is my prize. My spoils of war.
Only she doesn’t know that yet.
Forced into marriage with me to protect her from those that would destroy us, I vow to keep her secure at all costs… even when she fights me tooth and nail.
Can I protect Lydia without consuming her, or will our love story end in ashes? The stakes have never been higher, and for Lydia… I will burn the world.
348 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 8, 2024
907 people are currently reading
1658 people want to read
About the author
Jane Henry
114 books2,717 followersFueled by dark chocolate and even darker coffee, USA Today bestselling author Jane Henry writes what she loves to read – character-driven, unputdownable romance featuring dominant alpha males and the powerful heroines who bring them to their knees. She’s believed in the power of love and romance since Belle won over the beast, and finally decided to write love stories of her own.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 253 reviews
July 23, 2024
HE HAS A SHRINE OF THINGS SHE’S TOUCHED THAT HE’S COLLECTED SINCE THEY WERE KIDS OKKKKK
mafia arranged marriage, she’s a curvy heroine and he has been obsessed with every inch of her since the minute he saw her. enough said.
mafia arranged marriage, she’s a curvy heroine and he has been obsessed with every inch of her since the minute he saw her. enough said.
June 25, 2024
after the last book, i’m so glad this one went back to the essence of this series and the nuclear family’s home was the setting backdrop. these stories really set themselves apart from other mafia romances due to the different dynamics at play within the band of brothers and their wives. which doesn’t sound that “fresh”, but when paired with the roles the fmcs take in the brotherhood it makes these books standout. they’re not the darkest nor more complex, but they’re very entertaining. they deliver when it comes to characters and plots, and it’s always refreshing how the author takes well established tropes and gives them her own twist.
* i was sent an arc by valentine pr in exchange for a honest review
* i was sent an arc by valentine pr in exchange for a honest review
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July 16, 2024Now available!
Grab your copy today!
Amazon: https://amzn.to/3Vmjktc
Amazon Worldwide: https://mybook.to/ScorchJH
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Grab your copy today!
Amazon: https://amzn.to/3Vmjktc
Amazon Worldwide: https://mybook.to/ScorchJH
Add to Goodreads: https://bit.ly/3Vh5bgR
October 4, 2024
MY FAVOURITE in the series SO far. Usually my vice is an older brother BUT Viktor was MY FAV brother so far and I've got two more to go. This man was OBSESSED. 💓💓🫶🫶🫶🫶
Possessive delicious man ✔️
Plus Sized FMC ✔️
Found family ✔️
OTT mafia drama ✔️
NO OW ✔️
Loved this so much and it's purely because of the MMC. Viktor was just the perfect man ever, this guy was literally OBSESSED for years after he saw Lydia. He looked at no one else, collected a shrine of things she literally touched from when they were kids. (Might be creepy but I loved it ✋️) And just protected her all these years, even though she was at one point, engaged to another man. He loved all her curves, punished those who bullied her in school brutally and touched no other woman. He also designed his house knowing what she would want AND stocked up all her favourite foods. He knew everything about her. (Should be strange but it was actually tooo sweet)
Perfect mafia man, he was physically a big man but a big softie only for Lydia. She annoyed me at times because she kept fighting him but I was just so in love with Viktor throughout that I got irritated at her. 😭
But yh, MY fav so far. 💖
Possessive delicious man ✔️
Plus Sized FMC ✔️
Found family ✔️
OTT mafia drama ✔️
NO OW ✔️
Loved this so much and it's purely because of the MMC. Viktor was just the perfect man ever, this guy was literally OBSESSED for years after he saw Lydia. He looked at no one else, collected a shrine of things she literally touched from when they were kids. (Might be creepy but I loved it ✋️) And just protected her all these years, even though she was at one point, engaged to another man. He loved all her curves, punished those who bullied her in school brutally and touched no other woman. He also designed his house knowing what she would want AND stocked up all her favourite foods. He knew everything about her. (Should be strange but it was actually tooo sweet)
Perfect mafia man, he was physically a big man but a big softie only for Lydia. She annoyed me at times because she kept fighting him but I was just so in love with Viktor throughout that I got irritated at her. 😭
But yh, MY fav so far. 💖
August 28, 2024
I cannot express enough how much I love the characters created by this author. Scorch is a perfect name for this story for many reasons!!
Once again, we should never underestimate the dangers faced by the Romanov family. However, this time Viktor is the one with the most at stake... (and we’ll finally discover the origin of his scar!)
I believe it’s necessary to emphasize the importance of reading this series in order to maintain the integrity of the plotlines and avoid spoilers. Also, this series isn’t for sensitive readers.
With that being said, I found the connection between Lydia and Viktor quite enjoyable. The concept of “like attracts like” holds true for these two individuals, who have similarities that work together. Once Lydia realizes his concern for her is genuine, she begins to understand who's a threat, and why. But that doesn’t mean the path to their HEA is smooth. Despite Viktor’s obsessive and compulsive “concern” for Lydia, he stands firm and refuses to apologize for his behavior, or any of the things he's done, for her safety or retribution (to those people who harmed her) - and rightfully so! She is completely unaware of the danger that awaits her, and challenges Viktor at every turn. This just makes him more determined to truly claim her for his own, and both of them benefit!
Ooh - so steamy!
I enjoyed my time with these two, and the rest of the Romanovs. This has all the things we love in a dark, OTT, Alpha Mafia read: violence, bloody conflicts, betrayals, sizzling scenes and chemistry, loyalties, and commitment to the family’s safety. Just soo good!!
Once you have enjoyed this series, I recommend returning to this talented author’s catalog, and enjoying more!!
I was fortunate to receive a complimentary copy, (thank you!) and happily leave my review.
Once again, we should never underestimate the dangers faced by the Romanov family. However, this time Viktor is the one with the most at stake... (and we’ll finally discover the origin of his scar!)
I believe it’s necessary to emphasize the importance of reading this series in order to maintain the integrity of the plotlines and avoid spoilers. Also, this series isn’t for sensitive readers.
With that being said, I found the connection between Lydia and Viktor quite enjoyable. The concept of “like attracts like” holds true for these two individuals, who have similarities that work together. Once Lydia realizes his concern for her is genuine, she begins to understand who's a threat, and why. But that doesn’t mean the path to their HEA is smooth. Despite Viktor’s obsessive and compulsive “concern” for Lydia, he stands firm and refuses to apologize for his behavior, or any of the things he's done, for her safety or retribution (to those people who harmed her) - and rightfully so! She is completely unaware of the danger that awaits her, and challenges Viktor at every turn. This just makes him more determined to truly claim her for his own, and both of them benefit!
Ooh - so steamy!
I enjoyed my time with these two, and the rest of the Romanovs. This has all the things we love in a dark, OTT, Alpha Mafia read: violence, bloody conflicts, betrayals, sizzling scenes and chemistry, loyalties, and commitment to the family’s safety. Just soo good!!
Once you have enjoyed this series, I recommend returning to this talented author’s catalog, and enjoying more!!
I was fortunate to receive a complimentary copy, (thank you!) and happily leave my review.
August 22, 2024
She’s fat, we get it, it doesnt need to be said 100 times a chapter, or brought up literally every time she eats something. This is the wrong way write a plus size fmc. “Great. I’m marrying into a house full of supermodels. I cringe.” What an insecure and immature attitude to have, why can’t a plus size person just be okay or even confident in their bodies? it takes away from the story majorly when you relentlessly shove down our throats that she is fat. DNF because I couldn’t get past the way h was defending her ex finance who kept fat shaming her and was aggressive with her, even threw her freaking phone out the window. All H did was growl so not much to say there either.
July 15, 2024
I like the general idea of the book but had some major issues with our heroine. The psychopath ex fiancé she never questioned or talked back to but the guy actually treating her well she keeps fighting with? Then his obsession is just way too much it’s creepy and that girl should run for the hills.
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October 13, 2024safety? was he celibate in those 10 years? i was excited for the book, but 10 years is a lot
update:
ehh, he's been celibate for 5 years, but the separation is 10 years, like why?? just so annoying tbh
update:
ehh, he's been celibate for 5 years, but the separation is 10 years, like why?? just so annoying tbh
June 29, 2024
My Rating: ❤️❤️❤️❤️
Reading Order: I read out of order and wasn't lost. It's an interconnected standalone, so you see cameos from characters in other books. Likely makes most sense to read in order, but you're okay without doing so.
Disclaimer: I received a review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily. Thanks to the author and Valentine PR.
General Thoughts: First time reading this author. I love mafia romances, so I was excited to read this one. The author did a great job crafting her story and creating what appears to be an interesting world populated with intriguing characters. Check your triggers with how this romance unfolds. It is a dark romance. I feel like those dark elements were handled well, but not as well as I've seen some others do.
The pacing is fast, but I thought the author managed it without leaving the reader feeling rushed. It's dark, sexy, and hits all the right notes for a mafia romance. I do wish the characters had been fleshed out a bit more (just my personal preference), but it was an enjoyable read. I'm glad I gave this author a go. If you like the genre, then check this one out.
Spice Meter:❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥 Very frequently spicy in this one. Graphic. BD SM.
Romantic Tropes
-forced proximity
-forced/arranged marriage
-mafia
-dark
-stalker
You can read more of my reviews on Insta @mylastromancenovel.
Reading Order: I read out of order and wasn't lost. It's an interconnected standalone, so you see cameos from characters in other books. Likely makes most sense to read in order, but you're okay without doing so.
Disclaimer: I received a review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily. Thanks to the author and Valentine PR.
General Thoughts: First time reading this author. I love mafia romances, so I was excited to read this one. The author did a great job crafting her story and creating what appears to be an interesting world populated with intriguing characters. Check your triggers with how this romance unfolds. It is a dark romance. I feel like those dark elements were handled well, but not as well as I've seen some others do.
The pacing is fast, but I thought the author managed it without leaving the reader feeling rushed. It's dark, sexy, and hits all the right notes for a mafia romance. I do wish the characters had been fleshed out a bit more (just my personal preference), but it was an enjoyable read. I'm glad I gave this author a go. If you like the genre, then check this one out.
Spice Meter:❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥 Very frequently spicy in this one. Graphic. BD SM.
Romantic Tropes
-forced proximity
-forced/arranged marriage
-mafia
-dark
-stalker
You can read more of my reviews on Insta @mylastromancenovel.
July 19, 2024
I got to say i have mixed feelings about this one. Love Viktor and Lydia.. love their relationship as a whole and the storyline is pretty good. However it left me with a lot of questions and a stand alone book should not do that. I mean we get this back story about how Viktor knows her and stalks her since they were young but we never knew how he met her in the first place when they were young. I feel like the author missed alot of key points in this book. I hope im wrong and maybe they are missing because the author is writing the next book and will actually explain it in the next one. So to me it was a solid 3.5 ⭐️.
March 21, 2025
what’s up with men and spanking in this series??? it’s getting repetitive and annoying. i feel like i’m done with the series, bc it’s all pretty much the same over and over again. this book is so short yet so long at the same time, nothing kinda happened, yet something was… happening? what even was the point of past chapters? idk, wouldn’t be able to tell you. thank you very much, bye
January 28, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
🎤🎤🎤
A dark Russian mafia romance, sign me up!
This is book 4 of the Wicked Vows series but can be read as a standalone.
The story centers around Viktor Romanov who is the definition of a man obsessed. A big, tall, tattooed, alpha male that scares the general population and is obsessed with a girl who doesn't know he exists. When he was a boy, Viktor encounters Lydia Ivanova on the street and he quickly becomes obsessed with her. He proceeds to stalk her over the next few years, remaining in the shadows and taking every chance he can to observe her.
Years later, the opportunity arises to force her hand in marriage. But Lydia will not go down without a fight. She's fire and ice and fights Viktor every chance she gets trying to escape this union their families have put in place. But Viktor will burn down the world and anyone who tries to take Lydia from him.
This was my first book by this author and the first I've read in this series. It was an enjoyable and entertaining book to listen to. I enjoyed the characters and plot of the story. It wasn't too dark or complex which made for a nice easy book to listen to. The pacing was quick which I enjoyed as it kept me engaged for what was going to happen next. Viktor was a man obsessed and was ready to fulfill the touch her and die to anyone who dared to cross Lydia. The push and pull between the characters as Lydia challenged Viktor for control but also how Viktor knew when Lydia needed him to be soft or when he needed to enforce the rules on her.
I especially loved that Viktor was able to help Lydia be her true self and not feel ashamed for it. After growing up with her father's constant criticism and a partner that wanted her to mold herself into someone she was not, it was great to see that with Viktor's support she was able to be herself.
This book has definitely left me wanting more. The ending perfectly sets up for book 5 and the peek at the other brothers throughout this book has me wanting to go back and read their stories.
I really enjoyed the audio of this book. The male narrator's ability to switch so fluently between a Russian accent and not was impressive. Victor's internal monologue was done in the narrator's natural voice and anything Victor spoke had the Russian accent. I was worried the constant shifting back and forth may be a bit choppy but it was all done so fluently.
Thank you to Valentine PR and Jane Henry for the alc of this novel.
🌶️🌶️
🎤🎤🎤
A dark Russian mafia romance, sign me up!
This is book 4 of the Wicked Vows series but can be read as a standalone.
The story centers around Viktor Romanov who is the definition of a man obsessed. A big, tall, tattooed, alpha male that scares the general population and is obsessed with a girl who doesn't know he exists. When he was a boy, Viktor encounters Lydia Ivanova on the street and he quickly becomes obsessed with her. He proceeds to stalk her over the next few years, remaining in the shadows and taking every chance he can to observe her.
Years later, the opportunity arises to force her hand in marriage. But Lydia will not go down without a fight. She's fire and ice and fights Viktor every chance she gets trying to escape this union their families have put in place. But Viktor will burn down the world and anyone who tries to take Lydia from him.
This was my first book by this author and the first I've read in this series. It was an enjoyable and entertaining book to listen to. I enjoyed the characters and plot of the story. It wasn't too dark or complex which made for a nice easy book to listen to. The pacing was quick which I enjoyed as it kept me engaged for what was going to happen next. Viktor was a man obsessed and was ready to fulfill the touch her and die to anyone who dared to cross Lydia. The push and pull between the characters as Lydia challenged Viktor for control but also how Viktor knew when Lydia needed him to be soft or when he needed to enforce the rules on her.
I especially loved that Viktor was able to help Lydia be her true self and not feel ashamed for it. After growing up with her father's constant criticism and a partner that wanted her to mold herself into someone she was not, it was great to see that with Viktor's support she was able to be herself.
This book has definitely left me wanting more. The ending perfectly sets up for book 5 and the peek at the other brothers throughout this book has me wanting to go back and read their stories.
I really enjoyed the audio of this book. The male narrator's ability to switch so fluently between a Russian accent and not was impressive. Victor's internal monologue was done in the narrator's natural voice and anything Victor spoke had the Russian accent. I was worried the constant shifting back and forth may be a bit choppy but it was all done so fluently.
Thank you to Valentine PR and Jane Henry for the alc of this novel.
June 25, 2024
Thank you to Valentine PR for this ARC🩷
4.5 ⭐️
I’ve really loved this Bratva series! Viktor has been obsessed with Lydia Ivanov since they were teens. She’s now arranged to be married to a different mafia man, but his opportunity to have her for himself had presented itself. A marriage between the two would make a stronger alliance. The man she’s engaged to is not good to her.
I really enjoyed reading about this plus size heroine and the man that is absolutely obsessed with her. Viktor is possessive and Lydia has no choice but remain in his custody. There’s a cute dog and some suspense to make this a great installment in the series!
Tropes:
Forced marriage
Bratva
Man obsessed
Kidnapping (sort of)
Plus size heroine
4.5 ⭐️
I’ve really loved this Bratva series! Viktor has been obsessed with Lydia Ivanov since they were teens. She’s now arranged to be married to a different mafia man, but his opportunity to have her for himself had presented itself. A marriage between the two would make a stronger alliance. The man she’s engaged to is not good to her.
I really enjoyed reading about this plus size heroine and the man that is absolutely obsessed with her. Viktor is possessive and Lydia has no choice but remain in his custody. There’s a cute dog and some suspense to make this a great installment in the series!
Tropes:
Forced marriage
Bratva
Man obsessed
Kidnapping (sort of)
Plus size heroine
February 5, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
Why you’ll love this audiobook!!
*Dark Mafia Romance
•Broody MMC
•Fire Loving FMC
•Forced Proximity
•Boy Obsessed
•He’s a bit of a Stalker
•Plus Size/Curvy FMC
•He Obsessed With Her Curves
•Touch Her and ☠️
Viktor has watch Lydia for a long time.. Now that she needs him even though she doesn’t know that yet he safes and proves she needed his help .. Lydia has been treated horribly in my opinion by the men that were in her life before Viktor .. I love how Viktor worships the curvy body of Lydia he see her as the goddess a true woman where other men in her life had told her to eat less and bull like that..
This audiobook book had me hooked it was narrated by Kai Kennicott and Wen Ross who were AMAZING!!!They killed it at the story of Viktor and Lydia!!
Why you’ll love this audiobook!!
*Dark Mafia Romance
•Broody MMC
•Fire Loving FMC
•Forced Proximity
•Boy Obsessed
•He’s a bit of a Stalker
•Plus Size/Curvy FMC
•He Obsessed With Her Curves
•Touch Her and ☠️
Viktor has watch Lydia for a long time.. Now that she needs him even though she doesn’t know that yet he safes and proves she needed his help .. Lydia has been treated horribly in my opinion by the men that were in her life before Viktor .. I love how Viktor worships the curvy body of Lydia he see her as the goddess a true woman where other men in her life had told her to eat less and bull like that..
This audiobook book had me hooked it was narrated by Kai Kennicott and Wen Ross who were AMAZING!!!They killed it at the story of Viktor and Lydia!!
July 8, 2024
So powerful! So intense! What a fantastic story! So much goes on that makes your head spin and your heart beat right out of your chest! I’ve been waiting for Viktor’s story and it was so well worth the wait! He’s the strong enforcer in his family and will protect those he loves. He has obsessed and lusted after Lydia for so long but she has been betrothed to another. But will that stop Viktor?! Lydia is part of a family where the woman are sent off to marry a man to bring strong ties to their family. But is the man Lydia is supposed to marry everything she thinks he is? When things change between the families, all bets are off and Viktor is bound and determined to make Lydia his. Problem is? He needs to convince her this is for the best. I enjoyed the witty interactions between them and also enjoyed the slow burn that finally brings them together. These two are imperfectly perfect for each other. I thoroughly enjoyed this story and didn’t want it to end!
July 6, 2024
I was excited to see Jane Henry’s Scorch was going to be Viktor’s story. He’s all sorts of “scary man” but like the other “brothers” in this family, fiercely loyal and the men all love hard. Of course, Viktor is no exception. Granted: “Her voice is hard. Challenging. I stole a woman who’s constructed of sheer fire and ice and should have expected nothing less.” And he really shouldn’t have, because Lydia is surprisingly strong—given her father and everything that’s been thrown at her. The push and pull between these two was so fun to read and I loved how every time he got toppy with her, she was that much more “interested” in him. And her love of food…coughs…well, it’s far more…hot-hot-hot than the Rossis. With Viktor’s help. Of course. Really loved this book – everything about the couple, their families, and the series plot. Very much recommended.
January 30, 2025
Viktor was everything you could want in a mafia romance hero. He was all dominant alpha and with all the obsessive and possessive vibes. Lydia's impeding arranged marriage is to an absolute jerk when Viktor who has been obsessed with her for years steps in and takes her. The bratva is at war and nothing is as it seems.
Kai Kennicott and Wen Ross do a phenomenal job of bringing this fast paced, intense story to life. I especially loved Kai's ability to capture Viktor's alpha dominance. 5 stars!
Kai Kennicott and Wen Ross do a phenomenal job of bringing this fast paced, intense story to life. I especially loved Kai's ability to capture Viktor's alpha dominance. 5 stars!
May 3, 2025
3.5✨ rounded down for GR
Not my fave in the series..
Not my fave in the series..
October 16, 2025
DNF at 50% couldn’t get through it for the life of me
August 29, 2025
Least favorite so far in the series. I don’t mind a curvy FMC but the constant talk about her weight and size was driving me insane. I had to start skipping those parts because it was annoying as all get out.
Thankfully the spice and plot were amazing and outweighed my annoyance.
Thankfully the spice and plot were amazing and outweighed my annoyance.
June 29, 2024
I love a good mafia romance!!! Scorch did not disappoint!! I was worried she couldn’t out-do nikko and Vera, but I LOVE THESE TWO.
It’s somewhat of a marriage of convenience/enemies to lovers.. really he has an actual obsession with her. He’s got tunnel vision for her and her only which I love! Like I feel like o should be creeped out, but you know.. I’m not and I’m kind of about it.
She’s having to escape her ex fiancé, and he’s the perfect one to keep her safe.
-Mafia
-Marriage of convenience
-crazy ex
It’s somewhat of a marriage of convenience/enemies to lovers.. really he has an actual obsession with her. He’s got tunnel vision for her and her only which I love! Like I feel like o should be creeped out, but you know.. I’m not and I’m kind of about it.
She’s having to escape her ex fiancé, and he’s the perfect one to keep her safe.
-Mafia
-Marriage of convenience
-crazy ex
December 28, 2024
Loving the whole Wicked Vows series, but really loved this one...Viktor Romanov and Lydia Ivavnova's story.
Viktor is the biggest Romanov brother with a scar on his face. He's the family enforcer and interrogator, he's the big bad who can scares people by his appearance and reputation alone. He doesn't need a gun or tools, he solves problems and gets answers with his fists.
Lydia is sister to Vera Ivanova, Nikko's wife (Seduction). Lydia was constantly criticized by her father and often ridiculed by classmates in the special private high school he made her attend. She rebelled in her own way but has some insecurities.
Viktor's had a thing for Lydia since she was at the private high school, but their families were not allies back then. Now the opportunity to claim her has come, but first Lydia's betrothal, arranged by her deceased father, has to be rescinded by her mother. The fiance, more interested in her inheritance, does not take it well. Before Lydia can be informed of the dissolution, she meets the fiance for dinner unaware of his nefarious intent, so when they are chased by the Romanovs, she believes they are the ones with mal intent and fights them. To get her to safety without trouble, one of the brothers drugs her, which infuriates Viktor. How is he going to get her to trust him now so he can keep her safe?
So what did I love about this one? That big bad Viktor was such a softy when it came to Lydia. I loved how he indulged her while still maintaining control. I loved how he knew when to be soft and when she needed him to lay down the law. I loved how well he knew her and saw the real Lydia..the one she learned to repress and how he taught her there was nothing wrong with her...to see herself as he saw her and to be true to herself. The dangers and the battles when she fought him kept this from being a sappy romance. It was a perfect balance!
Viktor is the biggest Romanov brother with a scar on his face. He's the family enforcer and interrogator, he's the big bad who can scares people by his appearance and reputation alone. He doesn't need a gun or tools, he solves problems and gets answers with his fists.
Lydia is sister to Vera Ivanova, Nikko's wife (Seduction). Lydia was constantly criticized by her father and often ridiculed by classmates in the special private high school he made her attend. She rebelled in her own way but has some insecurities.
Viktor's had a thing for Lydia since she was at the private high school, but their families were not allies back then. Now the opportunity to claim her has come, but first Lydia's betrothal, arranged by her deceased father, has to be rescinded by her mother. The fiance, more interested in her inheritance, does not take it well. Before Lydia can be informed of the dissolution, she meets the fiance for dinner unaware of his nefarious intent, so when they are chased by the Romanovs, she believes they are the ones with mal intent and fights them. To get her to safety without trouble, one of the brothers drugs her, which infuriates Viktor. How is he going to get her to trust him now so he can keep her safe?
So what did I love about this one? That big bad Viktor was such a softy when it came to Lydia. I loved how he indulged her while still maintaining control. I loved how he knew when to be soft and when she needed him to lay down the law. I loved how well he knew her and saw the real Lydia..the one she learned to repress and how he taught her there was nothing wrong with her...to see herself as he saw her and to be true to herself. The dangers and the battles when she fought him kept this from being a sappy romance. It was a perfect balance!
July 25, 2024
The title is very appropriate, because these characters burned up the pages. Viktor Romanov is the enforcer of the family, and has been in love with Lydia Ivanova for years. When he receives word that her fiancé may be prepared to hurt her, Viktor sets out to rescue her. Unfortunately, she believes him to be the aggressor against them and believes she's been kidnapped. There's a lot of trust that needs to occur between these two, but of course there is major attraction between the two as well. Then there is the added threat of her ex looming. We get a great HEA, although a message of a new threat on the way.
September 5, 2024
definitely NOT my favorite
I typically like this author’s work, and know the type of book I’m getting into. OTT possessive alpha dominant men, usually spanking and punishment involved, plenty of steamy goodness, some mafia shenanigans … I’m always down for that. This time it was not my fave.
Viktor has been obsessed with Lydia since they were teens. She was sent away, then arranged to be married to someone else. Yet his obsession remained. Somehow she never saw the evil in her betrothed, never stood up to his belittling treatment of her, yet she immediately fights Viktor at every opportunity- even getting off on the arguing and being a brat and getting punished. Which is fine- hot even- but a total personality reversal.
I have to say it felt cheesy to me when Viktor became this therapist to her. In their first intimate scene he’s going down on her and giving her a legit therapy session to encourage her to “let go” so she can have her O. It was weird. I rolled my eyes, laughed, then skimmed on through it. Then he later takes her to the fire pit that he built for her and gives her another therapy session. She had been in trouble for arson as a teen and sent away. She’s repressed her pyro ways since then, but he lectures her on how bringing them out is therapeutic or something. I don’t know- it was very odd. But somehow it made her “feel safe” 🙄. We are told that she has this deep rooted pyro history, but honestly the fact that it was never shown made all the later mentions seem weird to me.
What I **did** love: his obsession with Lydia even from childhood. He went so far as seeking revenge on everyone who bullied or mistreated her. He was definitely committed to his obsession with her.
“Yes, I stalked you. Yes, I fucking tracked you. Yes, I spent years seeking revenge on the bullies who fucking tormented you. Where do you think I got this scar? One of the assholes cut me, but I wear it with pride because it’s a battle scar. The memory of what I did for the woman I love.”
Lydia’s part in moving the plot along is to suddenly become TSTL. Nevermind that she is fully aware of the danger, she suddenly and randomly decides she’s “over” it all and feeling suffocated 🙄🙄 And like a total idiot she runs right into the arms of danger. Honestly I just skimmed to the end at that point because not only did I not even care if she survived, but she didn’t even deserve my attention since she didn’t care enough about herself in the first place.
It all wrapped up quickly, unfortunately too easily for Lydia imo, and they get their HFN as the lead in for the next book suggests some incoming mafia family drama. Overall, I can’t say I regret reading it, but it will definitely not be holding any real estate in my memory banks. Moving on….
I typically like this author’s work, and know the type of book I’m getting into. OTT possessive alpha dominant men, usually spanking and punishment involved, plenty of steamy goodness, some mafia shenanigans … I’m always down for that. This time it was not my fave.
Viktor has been obsessed with Lydia since they were teens. She was sent away, then arranged to be married to someone else. Yet his obsession remained. Somehow she never saw the evil in her betrothed, never stood up to his belittling treatment of her, yet she immediately fights Viktor at every opportunity- even getting off on the arguing and being a brat and getting punished. Which is fine- hot even- but a total personality reversal.
I have to say it felt cheesy to me when Viktor became this therapist to her. In their first intimate scene he’s going down on her and giving her a legit therapy session to encourage her to “let go” so she can have her O. It was weird. I rolled my eyes, laughed, then skimmed on through it. Then he later takes her to the fire pit that he built for her and gives her another therapy session. She had been in trouble for arson as a teen and sent away. She’s repressed her pyro ways since then, but he lectures her on how bringing them out is therapeutic or something. I don’t know- it was very odd. But somehow it made her “feel safe” 🙄. We are told that she has this deep rooted pyro history, but honestly the fact that it was never shown made all the later mentions seem weird to me.
What I **did** love: his obsession with Lydia even from childhood. He went so far as seeking revenge on everyone who bullied or mistreated her. He was definitely committed to his obsession with her.
“Yes, I stalked you. Yes, I fucking tracked you. Yes, I spent years seeking revenge on the bullies who fucking tormented you. Where do you think I got this scar? One of the assholes cut me, but I wear it with pride because it’s a battle scar. The memory of what I did for the woman I love.”
Lydia’s part in moving the plot along is to suddenly become TSTL. Nevermind that she is fully aware of the danger, she suddenly and randomly decides she’s “over” it all and feeling suffocated 🙄🙄 And like a total idiot she runs right into the arms of danger. Honestly I just skimmed to the end at that point because not only did I not even care if she survived, but she didn’t even deserve my attention since she didn’t care enough about herself in the first place.
It all wrapped up quickly, unfortunately too easily for Lydia imo, and they get their HFN as the lead in for the next book suggests some incoming mafia family drama. Overall, I can’t say I regret reading it, but it will definitely not be holding any real estate in my memory banks. Moving on….
September 2, 2024
Worst of the series- read on KU
I accidentally read the book that came after this one first and then started back at book 1. I liked at least something about all of them except this one. The FMC is irritating. She acts like a teenager. I'm not sure how old she is. I would guess around 25. She didn't act it.
This book contradicts much of the information from the previous book. In the previous book, the father didn't live with them. He did for some time in this one. It didn't stop there. And things at the beginning of the book are later contradicted.
The tineline of people having babies and when they got married isn't quite right throughout the series. And in this book, I thought it was summer, but the epilogue is 6 months later and it's early fall.
There are more grammatical errors in this one and sentences sometimes repeat on the same page.
I had to heavily skim the last 30% to get through it. I know it doesn't feel right to read a series and skip a book, but I recommend that in this case. You won't miss much back story for the next book in skipping this one. And I wouldn't recommend purchasing this series. I also wouldn't recommend it to people who don't read often. If you read a book here and there, find something better. If you read so much you run out of things on KU, it's worth it.
I accidentally read the book that came after this one first and then started back at book 1. I liked at least something about all of them except this one. The FMC is irritating. She acts like a teenager. I'm not sure how old she is. I would guess around 25. She didn't act it.
This book contradicts much of the information from the previous book. In the previous book, the father didn't live with them. He did for some time in this one. It didn't stop there. And things at the beginning of the book are later contradicted.
The tineline of people having babies and when they got married isn't quite right throughout the series. And in this book, I thought it was summer, but the epilogue is 6 months later and it's early fall.
There are more grammatical errors in this one and sentences sometimes repeat on the same page.
I had to heavily skim the last 30% to get through it. I know it doesn't feel right to read a series and skip a book, but I recommend that in this case. You won't miss much back story for the next book in skipping this one. And I wouldn't recommend purchasing this series. I also wouldn't recommend it to people who don't read often. If you read a book here and there, find something better. If you read so much you run out of things on KU, it's worth it.
July 14, 2024
flawed storyline
I enjoyed the writing style but the story just seemed incomplete or like the story changed part way through for example she was all for her fiance in the beginning and was kidnapped but then a day later she hated him and had figured him out. Also viktors family approached her mother but when her mother tells the story it’s her idea she marries one of the brothers.
I enjoyed the writing style but the story just seemed incomplete or like the story changed part way through for example she was all for her fiance in the beginning and was kidnapped but then a day later she hated him and had figured him out. Also viktors family approached her mother but when her mother tells the story it’s her idea she marries one of the brothers.
August 23, 2024
DNF at 50%
tbh this book was boring and it was moving way too fast but also nothing was happening. Fmc was annoying and I also found some of the writing cringey.
tbh this book was boring and it was moving way too fast but also nothing was happening. Fmc was annoying and I also found some of the writing cringey.
July 23, 2024
****ARC****
Thanks to Grey's Promotion and Valentines PR for selecting me for this ARC. And a HUGE!!! thank you to the wonderful author for writing this amazing book. THANK YOU!!! ❤❤❤
First and foremost, it was once again an incredible book that I got as an ARC. However, I didnt get to read in time as I strongly impacted by Hurricane Beryl and ALOT happened. Thankfully I had downloaded this before the hurricane but sadly still wasn't able to read because of all the stressed that come before, during and after a hurricane. So now that I have the chance I definitely read it of course and as I said I loved it.
Like all the others in the series, I was inlove with the MMC and FMC. I love ALL these brothers and Viktor has definitely become one of the top faves. He and Lydia were meant to be. They feed off each other and they know how to balance and restrain each other in positive ways.
I love an MMC who is OBSESSED with his FMC and Viktor gave that for me. He had a shrine for goodness sake of Lydia. A bit crazy maybe, but I was here for it. He literally brought hell on earth to avenge her bullying. He took them all down one by one just so they could learn their lesson. It was a sight to see and I really wish we had gotten to see more of those individually because I really loved that part. But at the same time he also had a heart because he rewarded the ones who were nice to her. The way he loved her and how much he loved her warmed my heart. He made sure to tell her that there was nothing wrong with her for her love of fire. He gave her an outlet for her to control that love. Also, the obsession he had for her made him aware of EVERYTHING she loved and made sure to have ALL her favorite snacks, desserts and everything she loved in the house. This man was just freaking amazing.
Lydia as an FMC was also incredible. She was super strong and she stood on what she wanted. She wasn't afraid to express herself and say what she wanted or what she liked; in regards to sexual stuff. She's a freaky amd kinky girl and I love that. She's also really relatable with her being a plus size FMC and feeling insecure about her body. But Viktor was just the person she needed in her life t ok make her feel comfortable. While she was afraid to eat or dress a certain way, he fed her; sometimes in the best of ways 😏😏😏😏😏, and he encouraged her and reassured her that she was beautiful, gorgeous and amazing and that he would punish her if she ever looked down on herself again lol 🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵.
These two together are a match made in heaven. And the thing I love most about these books is that they have arranged marriages but arranged marriages with FMCs that dont sit and look pretty; as Vera would say, and while there's nothing wrong with that, this family has a bunch of FMCs that all have a purpose and if you feel left out at all, they will reassure you and love on you and make you feel comfortable. Viktor and Lydia are just one of the best and she's not a scared FMC one bit.
Overall I give this book a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5. I'm just inlove with the book. If I could change one thing, which I really dont, is the kidnapping of Lydia and getting her back. It was so quick and I would've liked to see more in depth about it. A bit of torture and whatever but I'm just freaking happy that man was burnt to ashes, no returning for him. Also, we never got a confirmation that Zofia has cancer or not; if I didn't catch that please let me know because sometimes I read super fast and miss something, so forgive me and let me know if I missed that. Another thing I love about these books, in the epilogue it ALWAYS gives you snippets of what's to come in the next book.
The spice in this book was 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥. One of my fave scenes is the one where Lydia is eating all that delicious cakes in the kitchen and Viktor catches her and well it turned super sexy super fast. Where she's eating and he's eating too. Like he's REALLLLLLY eating 😏😏😏😏😏😏😏😏😏. Also, they just matched each others energy. They fed off each other; no pun intended, and love the same things. I would give it a 🌶🌶🌶.5/5.
Please go read this entire series which I can be read as standalones but so much better reading in order. Please please go read. ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
Thanks to Grey's Promotion and Valentines PR for selecting me for this ARC. And a HUGE!!! thank you to the wonderful author for writing this amazing book. THANK YOU!!! ❤❤❤
First and foremost, it was once again an incredible book that I got as an ARC. However, I didnt get to read in time as I strongly impacted by Hurricane Beryl and ALOT happened. Thankfully I had downloaded this before the hurricane but sadly still wasn't able to read because of all the stressed that come before, during and after a hurricane. So now that I have the chance I definitely read it of course and as I said I loved it.
Like all the others in the series, I was inlove with the MMC and FMC. I love ALL these brothers and Viktor has definitely become one of the top faves. He and Lydia were meant to be. They feed off each other and they know how to balance and restrain each other in positive ways.
I love an MMC who is OBSESSED with his FMC and Viktor gave that for me. He had a shrine for goodness sake of Lydia. A bit crazy maybe, but I was here for it. He literally brought hell on earth to avenge her bullying. He took them all down one by one just so they could learn their lesson. It was a sight to see and I really wish we had gotten to see more of those individually because I really loved that part. But at the same time he also had a heart because he rewarded the ones who were nice to her. The way he loved her and how much he loved her warmed my heart. He made sure to tell her that there was nothing wrong with her for her love of fire. He gave her an outlet for her to control that love. Also, the obsession he had for her made him aware of EVERYTHING she loved and made sure to have ALL her favorite snacks, desserts and everything she loved in the house. This man was just freaking amazing.
Lydia as an FMC was also incredible. She was super strong and she stood on what she wanted. She wasn't afraid to express herself and say what she wanted or what she liked; in regards to sexual stuff. She's a freaky amd kinky girl and I love that. She's also really relatable with her being a plus size FMC and feeling insecure about her body. But Viktor was just the person she needed in her life t ok make her feel comfortable. While she was afraid to eat or dress a certain way, he fed her; sometimes in the best of ways 😏😏😏😏😏, and he encouraged her and reassured her that she was beautiful, gorgeous and amazing and that he would punish her if she ever looked down on herself again lol 🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵.
These two together are a match made in heaven. And the thing I love most about these books is that they have arranged marriages but arranged marriages with FMCs that dont sit and look pretty; as Vera would say, and while there's nothing wrong with that, this family has a bunch of FMCs that all have a purpose and if you feel left out at all, they will reassure you and love on you and make you feel comfortable. Viktor and Lydia are just one of the best and she's not a scared FMC one bit.
Overall I give this book a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5. I'm just inlove with the book. If I could change one thing, which I really dont, is the kidnapping of Lydia and getting her back. It was so quick and I would've liked to see more in depth about it. A bit of torture and whatever but I'm just freaking happy that man was burnt to ashes, no returning for him. Also, we never got a confirmation that Zofia has cancer or not; if I didn't catch that please let me know because sometimes I read super fast and miss something, so forgive me and let me know if I missed that. Another thing I love about these books, in the epilogue it ALWAYS gives you snippets of what's to come in the next book.
The spice in this book was 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥. One of my fave scenes is the one where Lydia is eating all that delicious cakes in the kitchen and Viktor catches her and well it turned super sexy super fast. Where she's eating and he's eating too. Like he's REALLLLLLY eating 😏😏😏😏😏😏😏😏😏. Also, they just matched each others energy. They fed off each other; no pun intended, and love the same things. I would give it a 🌶🌶🌶.5/5.
Please go read this entire series which I can be read as standalones but so much better reading in order. Please please go read. ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 26, 2025
HE IS OBSESSED !!!
This is a great audiobook that I really enjoyed by Jane Henry who is still a pretty new author to me.
This is only the second book I have listened to of hers and I liked this one a little better than the one I Listened to before.
Viktor Romonov has been obsessed with one woman for many years,..Lydia Ivonova.(Lydia's sister Vera is married to Viktor's brother Nikko).
Viktor has been watching over her since she was in school,seeing how she was bullied by her class mates,and how she tried to be a good girl to please her father...But she could never do anything right in his eyes.Lydia is beautiful and curvy and is insecure about her weight,but Viktor loves everything about her body I loved that about him.
It is 10 years until Viktor may have the chance to have Lydia in his life and to make her his...During those years he collects souveniors from Lydia and he literally puts her on a shrine.
The only set back is Lydia is engaged to another man Timur ..an abusive man who her father arranged for her to marry before her Father died...But Timur has an ulterior motive for marrying her and Lydia is in danger.
Viktor and his brothers rescue her from her fiance and they have plans for an arranged marriage with Viktor.To keep her safe and to form a bigger alliance between the Families.
But Lydia doesn't trust Viktor and he has to prove that she can trust him..and slowly but surely they develop a sexual relationship because the chemistry and attraction they share is unstoppable.
Lydia explores her darker side with Viktor in the bedroom pain,pleasure and learning to embrace her body because Viktor loves it.
But Lydia is still not safe as Timur won't except that she has left and he is coming for her.
Scorch is a fantastic audiobook story Narrated by Kai Kennicott and Wen Ross they both told the story perfectly..With the accents and emotions they made the story more authentic.
I really enjoyed listening to their voices both were excellent.!
Scorch is a falling for your Stalker,mafia romance that will reel you in and entice you with it's steam and storyline.
Viktor is very dominant and over the top with his protectiveness but you can't help but love him and Lydia is a surprise submissive but she still has alot of sass,I like her.
Jane Henry leaves you intrigued at the end and wanting more when the hint of more adventures with the Romonov's is implied.
I thoroughly enjoyed listening to this story.
Fabulous 5 Stars.
This is a great audiobook that I really enjoyed by Jane Henry who is still a pretty new author to me.
This is only the second book I have listened to of hers and I liked this one a little better than the one I Listened to before.
Viktor Romonov has been obsessed with one woman for many years,..Lydia Ivonova.(Lydia's sister Vera is married to Viktor's brother Nikko).
Viktor has been watching over her since she was in school,seeing how she was bullied by her class mates,and how she tried to be a good girl to please her father...But she could never do anything right in his eyes.Lydia is beautiful and curvy and is insecure about her weight,but Viktor loves everything about her body I loved that about him.
It is 10 years until Viktor may have the chance to have Lydia in his life and to make her his...During those years he collects souveniors from Lydia and he literally puts her on a shrine.
The only set back is Lydia is engaged to another man Timur ..an abusive man who her father arranged for her to marry before her Father died...But Timur has an ulterior motive for marrying her and Lydia is in danger.
Viktor and his brothers rescue her from her fiance and they have plans for an arranged marriage with Viktor.To keep her safe and to form a bigger alliance between the Families.
But Lydia doesn't trust Viktor and he has to prove that she can trust him..and slowly but surely they develop a sexual relationship because the chemistry and attraction they share is unstoppable.
Lydia explores her darker side with Viktor in the bedroom pain,pleasure and learning to embrace her body because Viktor loves it.
But Lydia is still not safe as Timur won't except that she has left and he is coming for her.
Scorch is a fantastic audiobook story Narrated by Kai Kennicott and Wen Ross they both told the story perfectly..With the accents and emotions they made the story more authentic.
I really enjoyed listening to their voices both were excellent.!
Scorch is a falling for your Stalker,mafia romance that will reel you in and entice you with it's steam and storyline.
Viktor is very dominant and over the top with his protectiveness but you can't help but love him and Lydia is a surprise submissive but she still has alot of sass,I like her.
Jane Henry leaves you intrigued at the end and wanting more when the hint of more adventures with the Romonov's is implied.
I thoroughly enjoyed listening to this story.
Fabulous 5 Stars.
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