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Sweetest Scars
This is a previously-published edition of ASIN B0D6ZX5MR3.
Luka
It was supposed to be a simple job.
Our bratva was hired to collect something; in return, we would receive a favor from a powerful entity. When the new boss commanded me to complete the mission, I obeyed.
But once I meet her, once I taste her fire, I’m not sure any favor is worth losing her.
This just might be the first order I disobey.
I hope my boss is merciful, or else I’ll make my confession and receive the last rites because nothing else can take me away from her!
Sweetest Scars is Luka & Vivian's book from the Vlasov Bratva saga, set in the Midwest Underworld series. It’s a stand-alone darker mafia romance, with no cheating, a guaranteed HEA, and no cliffhangers. A morally grey romance, this book may not be suitable for everyone.
382 pages, ebook
Published August 16, 2024
236 people are currently reading
734 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
July 11, 2025
no ow/om drama
but he's still in love with he's latest wife, he call her 'my muse' he hear her voice inside his head I don't really feel his love for the h
but he's still in love with he's latest wife, he call her 'my muse' he hear her voice inside his head I don't really feel his love for the h
May 9, 2025
Luka is a broken soul who found a reason to live again, and Vivian is a caged soul who found the reason to fight.
I liked this story so much, the relationship between Luka and Vivian grew beautifully. The dynamic between them was entertaining, and the chemistry was fire.
I didn't feel at any point that the story dragged, and the plot had a very good crescendo.
I liked this story so much, the relationship between Luka and Vivian grew beautifully. The dynamic between them was entertaining, and the chemistry was fire.
I didn't feel at any point that the story dragged, and the plot had a very good crescendo.
August 16, 2024
Alexa Michaels is hands down one of my most “looked forward to” authors. Every single time I pick up one of her books it’s an adventure and I can ALWAYS see how much she’s grown as an author. This book is no different. If you’ve followed the series up until this point then you know that the last book left us standing in a swamp with an alligator… this one picks up a bit before that situation.
Luka is a loose cannon. He’s allergic to bullets is what his cousins always say. The man seems to walk into extremely dangerous situations with bullets flying all around and walk out unscathed. He’s carrying around a massive amount of heartache and guilt due to his late wife (also mentioned in previous storyline). Then there’s Vivian… he’s suppose to deliver her to her fiancé. But what happens if he doesn’t? Once Vivian spills a few of her secrets… maybe he can help.
I absolutely think these two psychos deserve each other! 100%. She’s just as crazy as he is in the absolute best way! I love the way she just goes with it. Whatever the it is… and he’s Luka. There’s not a whole lot more to describe him lol the man talks to himself, helps bungalow bunnies, drugs women when necessary and is downright a monster when he needs to be. Vivian just bounces along behind him for their next adventure.
Please, check your trigger warnings but absolutely ENJOY THIS!
Luka is a loose cannon. He’s allergic to bullets is what his cousins always say. The man seems to walk into extremely dangerous situations with bullets flying all around and walk out unscathed. He’s carrying around a massive amount of heartache and guilt due to his late wife (also mentioned in previous storyline). Then there’s Vivian… he’s suppose to deliver her to her fiancé. But what happens if he doesn’t? Once Vivian spills a few of her secrets… maybe he can help.
I absolutely think these two psychos deserve each other! 100%. She’s just as crazy as he is in the absolute best way! I love the way she just goes with it. Whatever the it is… and he’s Luka. There’s not a whole lot more to describe him lol the man talks to himself, helps bungalow bunnies, drugs women when necessary and is downright a monster when he needs to be. Vivian just bounces along behind him for their next adventure.
Please, check your trigger warnings but absolutely ENJOY THIS!
October 25, 2024
Really enjoyed this book. It was the perfect blend of dark, spice, humor, and action.
The aspect of the former spouse was handled really well and I appreciated how the heroine was never made to feel secondary. Overall I can’t say one bad thing about this book. It was so good I might have secretly read it all day at work 😉
I was able to get this book for free on Amazon so I wasn’t expecting much because a lot of freebies just fall short to me but I was pleasantly surprised by this and will now go purchase the others in the series.
The aspect of the former spouse was handled really well and I appreciated how the heroine was never made to feel secondary. Overall I can’t say one bad thing about this book. It was so good I might have secretly read it all day at work 😉
I was able to get this book for free on Amazon so I wasn’t expecting much because a lot of freebies just fall short to me but I was pleasantly surprised by this and will now go purchase the others in the series.
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October 21, 2024Prch Amz October 20, 2024
October 3, 2024
3.5/5
For me, I didn't like Luka's story as much. It honestly was more Luka then anything. His pov was too scattered and not much thought was put into his character. Now I adore Vivian! She's everything I love in my FMCs. She's the reason I kept reading.
For me, I didn't like Luka's story as much. It honestly was more Luka then anything. His pov was too scattered and not much thought was put into his character. Now I adore Vivian! She's everything I love in my FMCs. She's the reason I kept reading.
September 2, 2024
This has been my favorite out of the series so far. I love how Luka can turn from psycho criminal to sweet and caring with the blink of an eye.
This story has it all....stalking, forced marriage, enemies to lovers, touch her and ***, and a fight with an alligator. This is an absolute must read.
This story has it all....stalking, forced marriage, enemies to lovers, touch her and ***, and a fight with an alligator. This is an absolute must read.
August 18, 2024
What kind of psycho drops 300 feet on an amusement park ride with a complete stranger?
Vivian
My nightmare took away my career and drove me from my home. I cut the noose and chose exile rather than submit. The new life I created wasn't so bad, and I could still chase thrills. Until a stranger came to town and tempted me with the thrill of a life.
Too late, I realized the fun he offered wasn't all it seemed.
Luka
It was supposed to be a simple job.
Our bratva was hired to collect something; in return, we would receive a favor from a powerful entity. When the new boss commanded me to complete the mission, I obeyed.
But once I meet her, once I taste her fire, I’m not sure any favor is worth losing her. This just might be the first order I disobey. I hope my boss is merciful, or else I’ll make my confession and receive the last rites because nothing else can take me away from her!
“Sweetest Scars” is the story Luka and Vivian. It is the third book in the “Vlasov Bratva Saga” set in the Midwest Underworld series. Luka (aka Monster to Vivian) has been tasked with job by his family to kidnap Vivian and return her to her fiancé. Vivian is a strong, beautiful and fiesta woman that not give up without a fight! Luka has been “dead” inside since he lost his wife in a gunfight many years ago - now he just exists.
Vivian starts to stir emotions within him that he thought he would never feel again. Other than being attracted to her, he doubts the reasons given to them for this job, he decides he cannot and will not hand her over! Luka becomes very protective of Vivian - he is hers and no one else will have her. She brings him to life and gives him reasons to live! Luka and Vivian’s relationship is best described as a match that brings the fire to life. They bring each other to life ♥️
You will fall in love with Luca and Vivian, hoping that everything with work out for them and if they have a future together. There is never a dull moment - you will be hooked! I know I was - just love these two! A thoroughly enjoyable read from page to page, one chapter to the next - at times you are metaphorical “on the edge of your chair” wondering what will happen next. Overall, I would highly recommend this book and you will not be disappointed 😊
Vivian
My nightmare took away my career and drove me from my home. I cut the noose and chose exile rather than submit. The new life I created wasn't so bad, and I could still chase thrills. Until a stranger came to town and tempted me with the thrill of a life.
Too late, I realized the fun he offered wasn't all it seemed.
Luka
It was supposed to be a simple job.
Our bratva was hired to collect something; in return, we would receive a favor from a powerful entity. When the new boss commanded me to complete the mission, I obeyed.
But once I meet her, once I taste her fire, I’m not sure any favor is worth losing her. This just might be the first order I disobey. I hope my boss is merciful, or else I’ll make my confession and receive the last rites because nothing else can take me away from her!
“Sweetest Scars” is the story Luka and Vivian. It is the third book in the “Vlasov Bratva Saga” set in the Midwest Underworld series. Luka (aka Monster to Vivian) has been tasked with job by his family to kidnap Vivian and return her to her fiancé. Vivian is a strong, beautiful and fiesta woman that not give up without a fight! Luka has been “dead” inside since he lost his wife in a gunfight many years ago - now he just exists.
Vivian starts to stir emotions within him that he thought he would never feel again. Other than being attracted to her, he doubts the reasons given to them for this job, he decides he cannot and will not hand her over! Luka becomes very protective of Vivian - he is hers and no one else will have her. She brings him to life and gives him reasons to live! Luka and Vivian’s relationship is best described as a match that brings the fire to life. They bring each other to life ♥️
You will fall in love with Luca and Vivian, hoping that everything with work out for them and if they have a future together. There is never a dull moment - you will be hooked! I know I was - just love these two! A thoroughly enjoyable read from page to page, one chapter to the next - at times you are metaphorical “on the edge of your chair” wondering what will happen next. Overall, I would highly recommend this book and you will not be disappointed 😊
May 11, 2025
*slight spoilers if you have not read the previous books in The Vlasov Bratva*
I continue to love the Vlasov Bratva saga! Luka stood out in the previous books because of his crazy antics and his sense of humor. After the little tidbit about his past, I was so excited to delve more into his story and see more of him. This book did not disappoint!
I fell in love with Luka more and more, from his strength to continue on after the death of his wife, his unrelenting drive to test boundaries, and his unwavering devotion to those he loves. I laughed out loud so many times at Luka's escapades. He's so full of energy and has many unique tics. He puts on such a great show of being carefree, it was so striking to see the broken side to him. My heart was breaking when he would have conversations with his muse and his worry that the voice wasn't talking to him as often. And when Kolya alluded to how he found him all those years ago after Sasha's death, I was shaken. This book did such a great job of portraying someone who is deeply grieving and yearning for death, but is also desperate to live again.
Luka met his perfect match in Vivian. He needed someone to live for and she needed someone to set her free. Even though Vivian grew up in a more buttoned up circle, she has a desire to be wild. Luka brough out her inner freak and I loved seeing it come out slowly but surely. Facing her fears, fighting back, and scraping and clawing in a mostly fun way, lol! What I appreciate most about her was that even when she thought she was too scared to do something, when push came to shove, she stood up to face her fears. She leaped, she pulled the trigger, she stabbed the knife. She set herself free.
One of my favorite parts of this book was the ongoing teasing that Luka didn't have permission to touch Vivian unless she touched him first. These interactions were the best and led to the most explosive scenes.
Excited to read Ilya's story next, but I'm even more excited for the fifth book to see more of Kolya.
I continue to love the Vlasov Bratva saga! Luka stood out in the previous books because of his crazy antics and his sense of humor. After the little tidbit about his past, I was so excited to delve more into his story and see more of him. This book did not disappoint!
I fell in love with Luka more and more, from his strength to continue on after the death of his wife, his unrelenting drive to test boundaries, and his unwavering devotion to those he loves. I laughed out loud so many times at Luka's escapades. He's so full of energy and has many unique tics. He puts on such a great show of being carefree, it was so striking to see the broken side to him. My heart was breaking when he would have conversations with his muse and his worry that the voice wasn't talking to him as often. And when Kolya alluded to how he found him all those years ago after Sasha's death, I was shaken. This book did such a great job of portraying someone who is deeply grieving and yearning for death, but is also desperate to live again.
Luka met his perfect match in Vivian. He needed someone to live for and she needed someone to set her free. Even though Vivian grew up in a more buttoned up circle, she has a desire to be wild. Luka brough out her inner freak and I loved seeing it come out slowly but surely. Facing her fears, fighting back, and scraping and clawing in a mostly fun way, lol! What I appreciate most about her was that even when she thought she was too scared to do something, when push came to shove, she stood up to face her fears. She leaped, she pulled the trigger, she stabbed the knife. She set herself free.
One of my favorite parts of this book was the ongoing teasing that Luka didn't have permission to touch Vivian unless she touched him first. These interactions were the best and led to the most explosive scenes.
Excited to read Ilya's story next, but I'm even more excited for the fifth book to see more of Kolya.
January 7, 2025
Alexa Michaels has become one of my favourite authors thanks to this series! This is book 3 in the vlasov bratva series and tells Luka and Vivian’s story. It is just as good as the others in the series!
Luka is a cheeky, loveable, dangerous, unhinged and crazy mafia captain who has experiences his own share of heartbreak after his wife was shot and died in his arms almost a decade before this book is set. He thinks he will never again experience that kind of love or connection with another person, until he is sent on a job to retrieve a heiress on the run.
Vivian is a strong, smart, determined and newly independent heiress, who after being groomed by her “uncle” from childhood after her parents were killed, up until he tried to coerce her into to marriage so that he could claim her inheritance. She escapes and manages to make it south where she starts building her life. Until her “uncle”, who is in fact her family lawyer, enlists the bratvas services to find her and retrieve her claiming to be her concerned fiancée.
Luka is given the task of getting her and returning her, until he starts to realise she stirs feelings in him he never thought he would have again for someone, and when he starts to discover more tidbits of Vivian’s story he realises there may be more to the story than the bratva had been led to believe. Luka decides he’s going to do everything in his power to save and protect Vivian.
The story is very well written and the dynamics and chemistry between all the characters is perfect. Luka’s wit and charm add a good humorous element to the story too.
It is a stand alone story and can be read as such but there are overarching storylines and characters from the previous books so to appreciate them fully I would say read them in order! You won’t be disappointed!.
Luka is a cheeky, loveable, dangerous, unhinged and crazy mafia captain who has experiences his own share of heartbreak after his wife was shot and died in his arms almost a decade before this book is set. He thinks he will never again experience that kind of love or connection with another person, until he is sent on a job to retrieve a heiress on the run.
Vivian is a strong, smart, determined and newly independent heiress, who after being groomed by her “uncle” from childhood after her parents were killed, up until he tried to coerce her into to marriage so that he could claim her inheritance. She escapes and manages to make it south where she starts building her life. Until her “uncle”, who is in fact her family lawyer, enlists the bratvas services to find her and retrieve her claiming to be her concerned fiancée.
Luka is given the task of getting her and returning her, until he starts to realise she stirs feelings in him he never thought he would have again for someone, and when he starts to discover more tidbits of Vivian’s story he realises there may be more to the story than the bratva had been led to believe. Luka decides he’s going to do everything in his power to save and protect Vivian.
The story is very well written and the dynamics and chemistry between all the characters is perfect. Luka’s wit and charm add a good humorous element to the story too.
It is a stand alone story and can be read as such but there are overarching storylines and characters from the previous books so to appreciate them fully I would say read them in order! You won’t be disappointed!.
August 17, 2024
- Enemies to lovers
- Close proximity
- Mafia romance
- Found family
For those of you that have read the rest of the Vlasov series, this book is about the slightly unhinged member of their family, Luka. Ever since he lost his wife years ago, he has been reckless. When he is sent on a retrieval mission, he doesn't realize this will change his life.
Vivian, a disowned heiress, has been living a low key life in Florida as a maid and waitress. She meets the handsome, but slightly insane, Luka and is equal parts intrigued and scared. But she is tired of living life on someone else's terms and accompanies Luka on a beach swim. Not until she wakes up groggy in the backseat of his car does she realize she was the job Luka came to town for.
Luka is mesmerized by the feisty Vivian. She reminds him so much of his late wife. But Luka can't afford to become emotionally involved with Vivian. She is just a job to him, after all...
Somewhere on their trip back to Chicago, Luka realizes he can't let Vivian go and hatches a plan to both keep her safe and get back her fortune....marriage. Vivian can't believe she is considering his proposal..until she remembers her new life goal...standing up for herself.
The Vlasov family mostly welcomes Vivian with open arms, but will Luka's defiancy to deliver Vivian be the biggest mistake he's ever made...or the best decision?
This book is so full of action and steam! I absolutely love the worlds that this author creates. Her FMCs are always so sassy!
- Close proximity
- Mafia romance
- Found family
For those of you that have read the rest of the Vlasov series, this book is about the slightly unhinged member of their family, Luka. Ever since he lost his wife years ago, he has been reckless. When he is sent on a retrieval mission, he doesn't realize this will change his life.
Vivian, a disowned heiress, has been living a low key life in Florida as a maid and waitress. She meets the handsome, but slightly insane, Luka and is equal parts intrigued and scared. But she is tired of living life on someone else's terms and accompanies Luka on a beach swim. Not until she wakes up groggy in the backseat of his car does she realize she was the job Luka came to town for.
Luka is mesmerized by the feisty Vivian. She reminds him so much of his late wife. But Luka can't afford to become emotionally involved with Vivian. She is just a job to him, after all...
Somewhere on their trip back to Chicago, Luka realizes he can't let Vivian go and hatches a plan to both keep her safe and get back her fortune....marriage. Vivian can't believe she is considering his proposal..until she remembers her new life goal...standing up for herself.
The Vlasov family mostly welcomes Vivian with open arms, but will Luka's defiancy to deliver Vivian be the biggest mistake he's ever made...or the best decision?
This book is so full of action and steam! I absolutely love the worlds that this author creates. Her FMCs are always so sassy!
June 14, 2025
I finished it but it was awful. The mmc is crazy and not in a good way. It was ridiculous in places.
Oh dear. This one was terrible. I really wanted to enjoy Lula’s book as I liked him in previous books. He’s a psycho I’m sorry to say. He cuts himself with a knife several times, talks to and has conversations with his dead wife, (Creepy.) and all of his family think he’s crazy. It was hard to believe in their ‘love’ as he’s so mentally unstable. Aside from Luka there’s loads of mistakes. After having to shoot men and kill then to save herself later on in the book she says she’s never killed anyone and wouldn’t want to. Erm? Is Luka’s crazy contagious????
The plot with Luka being sent to retrieve Markham’s (A corrupt and dangerous lawyer.) fiancée Vivian is stupid. 1) Vivian isn’t engaged to Markham.
2) It never explains how the Bratva know Markham, he’s never been mentioned before!
3) Markham says that Vivian had a spoilt temper tantrum and needs retrieving. So when Luka finds her she’s a cleaner/maid and he doesn’t question it?
4)Vivian is supposed to be terrified of Markham and that’s why she ran away. So why didn’t she change her name.
I could go on but you get the idea. I hated it. I hated Luka having weird conversations with his dead wife, and I didn’t particularly like Vivian who goes from being terrified of Luka to wanting sex with him after he’s drugged and kidnapped her! OH COME ON!
Oh dear. This one was terrible. I really wanted to enjoy Lula’s book as I liked him in previous books. He’s a psycho I’m sorry to say. He cuts himself with a knife several times, talks to and has conversations with his dead wife, (Creepy.) and all of his family think he’s crazy. It was hard to believe in their ‘love’ as he’s so mentally unstable. Aside from Luka there’s loads of mistakes. After having to shoot men and kill then to save herself later on in the book she says she’s never killed anyone and wouldn’t want to. Erm? Is Luka’s crazy contagious????
The plot with Luka being sent to retrieve Markham’s (A corrupt and dangerous lawyer.) fiancée Vivian is stupid. 1) Vivian isn’t engaged to Markham.
2) It never explains how the Bratva know Markham, he’s never been mentioned before!
3) Markham says that Vivian had a spoilt temper tantrum and needs retrieving. So when Luka finds her she’s a cleaner/maid and he doesn’t question it?
4)Vivian is supposed to be terrified of Markham and that’s why she ran away. So why didn’t she change her name.
I could go on but you get the idea. I hated it. I hated Luka having weird conversations with his dead wife, and I didn’t particularly like Vivian who goes from being terrified of Luka to wanting sex with him after he’s drugged and kidnapped her! OH COME ON!
August 18, 2024
“Say yes, baby,” Luka choked, voice thick with emotion. Those bright blue eyes sparkled up at me. “Say yes and be mine.”
In the newest installment in the Vlasov Bratva series, we finally get a look into Luka, the unhinged loose canon of the family.
Luka is tasked to kidnap and deliver a mafia princess on the run but finds himself questioning this decision once he meets Vivian, an eccentric, no nonsense FMC who won’t back down. Shut off by his past, he isn’t in the market for love but it finds him anyways as he falls deeper and deeper for this woman that revive his protective and emotional side.
“It’s only natural to be scared. You’ve loved and lost, beloved.”
Honestly, these two are made for each other as they match each other word for word, action for action in their crazy and fiery relationship. The temperamental push and pull was INTENSE in this one and just added to the moments where the match gets lit and fire erupts. As always, the Vlasov family is so much fun to read, the wisecracks and quips just had me laughing and Vivian fit right in (my heart was full when she realized she finally has a big family!).
As Alexa says best, “monsters deserve love too" and everything she releases stays true to that. We truly love these monsters <3
In the newest installment in the Vlasov Bratva series, we finally get a look into Luka, the unhinged loose canon of the family.
Luka is tasked to kidnap and deliver a mafia princess on the run but finds himself questioning this decision once he meets Vivian, an eccentric, no nonsense FMC who won’t back down. Shut off by his past, he isn’t in the market for love but it finds him anyways as he falls deeper and deeper for this woman that revive his protective and emotional side.
“It’s only natural to be scared. You’ve loved and lost, beloved.”
Honestly, these two are made for each other as they match each other word for word, action for action in their crazy and fiery relationship. The temperamental push and pull was INTENSE in this one and just added to the moments where the match gets lit and fire erupts. As always, the Vlasov family is so much fun to read, the wisecracks and quips just had me laughing and Vivian fit right in (my heart was full when she realized she finally has a big family!).
As Alexa says best, “monsters deserve love too" and everything she releases stays true to that. We truly love these monsters <3
September 26, 2025
This book didn’t just tug at my heart, it tore it open and stitched it back together.
Sweetest Scars follows Luka and Vivian, two characters who are as damaged as they are magnetic. Luka is the Bratva’s enforcer, cold, lethal, and loyal to a fault. He’s the kind of man who’s done terrible things and doesn’t pretend otherwise. But beneath the violence and scars, there’s a quiet desperation for something real. Something that doesn’t bleed.
Vivian is a survivor. Her past is brutal, she’s lost her career, her home, and nearly herself. But instead of breaking, she rebuilds. She’s fierce, independent, and refuses to be anyone’s victim. When Luka is sent to collect her, it should’ve been just another job. But their connection is instant, volatile, and impossible to ignore.
What makes this story hit so hard is how Alexa Michaels writes their pain. It’s not romanticized, it’s raw and messy. Luka doesn’t know how to love gently, and Vivian doesn’t know how to trust easily. But somehow, they find a way to meet in the middle. Their relationship is built on fire and forgiveness, and watching them fight for each other is what makes this book unforgettable.
Sweetest Scars follows Luka and Vivian, two characters who are as damaged as they are magnetic. Luka is the Bratva’s enforcer, cold, lethal, and loyal to a fault. He’s the kind of man who’s done terrible things and doesn’t pretend otherwise. But beneath the violence and scars, there’s a quiet desperation for something real. Something that doesn’t bleed.
Vivian is a survivor. Her past is brutal, she’s lost her career, her home, and nearly herself. But instead of breaking, she rebuilds. She’s fierce, independent, and refuses to be anyone’s victim. When Luka is sent to collect her, it should’ve been just another job. But their connection is instant, volatile, and impossible to ignore.
What makes this story hit so hard is how Alexa Michaels writes their pain. It’s not romanticized, it’s raw and messy. Luka doesn’t know how to love gently, and Vivian doesn’t know how to trust easily. But somehow, they find a way to meet in the middle. Their relationship is built on fire and forgiveness, and watching them fight for each other is what makes this book unforgettable.
August 18, 2024
Luka and Vivian
I have been so ready for Luka’s story since Vengeful Dreams, and it did not disappoint! I knew Luka was going to need a fiery, temperamental woman and Vivian fit the bill! Luka’s backstory is actually quite tragic, but he hides behind a psycho, reckless lifestyle. Vivian is running from her own nightmare. Luka’s tasked with a simple job. Deliver Vivian back to her fiancé. However, things are not at all what they seem, and Luka has a decision to make. Deliver her or disobey an order and protect her. These two together are like gasoline and a lit match. Every interaction is explosive and full of hate or passion. I loved getting the deeper insights into Luka’s brain, and why he is the way he is. He’s incredibly loyal, and absolutely a sweetheart through and through. The little things he does for Vivian was just heartwarming. His protective side was amazing! Vivian was not shrinking flower. She gave as good as she got, and was not going to go down without a fight. I absolutely loved this story! Definitely recommend if you’re a fan of mafia romances!
I have been so ready for Luka’s story since Vengeful Dreams, and it did not disappoint! I knew Luka was going to need a fiery, temperamental woman and Vivian fit the bill! Luka’s backstory is actually quite tragic, but he hides behind a psycho, reckless lifestyle. Vivian is running from her own nightmare. Luka’s tasked with a simple job. Deliver Vivian back to her fiancé. However, things are not at all what they seem, and Luka has a decision to make. Deliver her or disobey an order and protect her. These two together are like gasoline and a lit match. Every interaction is explosive and full of hate or passion. I loved getting the deeper insights into Luka’s brain, and why he is the way he is. He’s incredibly loyal, and absolutely a sweetheart through and through. The little things he does for Vivian was just heartwarming. His protective side was amazing! Vivian was not shrinking flower. She gave as good as she got, and was not going to go down without a fight. I absolutely loved this story! Definitely recommend if you’re a fan of mafia romances!
May 30, 2025
Sweetest Scars is Luka & Vivian’s book from the Vlasov Bratva saga, set in the Midwest Underworld series.
It’s a stand-alone darker mafia romance, with no cheating, a guaranteed HEA, and no cliffhangers
Author: Alexa Michaels
GENRE: DARK MAFIA ROMANCE
*MORALLY GRAY
*LITE ST&LKING
*KIDNAPPING
*ENEMIES-TO-LOVERS
*MAFIA ROMANCE
*HURT & HEALING
*FOUND FAMILY
*MARRIAGE OF CONVENIENCE
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I was a little apprehensive about Luka as a main male character only because in the prior books he was a goofy, ‘crazy’ secondary character- even with his tragic backstory. I wasn’t sure how he would translate into this role. It worked. Luka & Vivian’s story was endearing and entertaining.
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Overall three to three and a half stars out of 5
💫💫💫
𝖭𝗈𝗍 𝗆𝗒 𝖿𝖺𝗏𝗈𝗋𝗂𝗍𝖾 𝗈𝖿 𝗍𝗁𝗂𝗌 𝗌𝖾𝗋𝗂𝖾𝗌 𝗍𝗁𝗎𝗌 𝖿𝖺𝗋. 𝖨𝗍 𝗁𝖺𝖽 𝖺 𝖼𝖾𝗋𝗍𝖺𝗂𝗇 𝖼𝗁𝖺𝗋𝗆 𝗍𝗁𝗈𝗎𝗀𝗁, 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝖨 𝖽𝗂𝖽 𝗐𝖺𝗇𝗍 𝗍𝗈 𝗋𝖾𝖺𝖽 𝖺𝗅𝗅 𝖿𝗂𝗏𝖾 𝗈𝖿 𝗍𝗁𝖾𝗌𝖾 𝖵𝖫𝖠𝖲𝖮𝖵 𝖡𝖱𝖠𝖳𝖵𝖠 𝖻𝗈𝗈𝗄𝗌.
𝗈𝖿 𝗇𝗈𝗍𝖾: 𝖨 𝖼𝖺𝗇 𝗌𝖾𝖾 𝗌𝗈𝗆𝖾 𝗋𝖾𝖺𝖽𝖾𝗋𝗌 𝖻𝖾𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝗍𝗎𝗋𝗇𝖾𝖽 𝗈𝖿𝖿 𝖻𝗒 𝖫𝗎𝗄𝖺- 𝗂𝗍 𝖼𝖺𝗇 𝗌𝖾𝖾𝗆 𝖺𝗌 𝗍𝗁𝗈𝗎𝗀𝗁 𝗂𝗍 𝗀𝖾𝗍𝗌 𝖺 𝖻𝗂𝗍 𝖽𝖾𝗇𝗌𝖾 𝗍𝗈 𝗄𝖾𝖾𝗉 𝗉𝗎𝗌𝗁𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝗍𝗁𝖾 𝖼𝗁𝖺𝗋𝖺𝖼𝗍𝖾𝗋 𝗂𝗇𝗍𝗈 𝗍𝗁𝖾 "𝖼𝗋𝖺𝗓𝗒" 𝗈𝗇𝖾 𝗍𝗋𝗈𝗉𝖾.
╝ Happy reading ┊┊┊┊ ➶ ❁۪ ｡˚ ✧
It’s a stand-alone darker mafia romance, with no cheating, a guaranteed HEA, and no cliffhangers
Author: Alexa Michaels
GENRE: DARK MAFIA ROMANCE
*MORALLY GRAY
*LITE ST&LKING
*KIDNAPPING
*ENEMIES-TO-LOVERS
*MAFIA ROMANCE
*HURT & HEALING
*FOUND FAMILY
*MARRIAGE OF CONVENIENCE
➷➷➷➷➷
I was a little apprehensive about Luka as a main male character only because in the prior books he was a goofy, ‘crazy’ secondary character- even with his tragic backstory. I wasn’t sure how he would translate into this role. It worked. Luka & Vivian’s story was endearing and entertaining.
➷➷➷➷➷
Overall three to three and a half stars out of 5
💫💫💫
𝖭𝗈𝗍 𝗆𝗒 𝖿𝖺𝗏𝗈𝗋𝗂𝗍𝖾 𝗈𝖿 𝗍𝗁𝗂𝗌 𝗌𝖾𝗋𝗂𝖾𝗌 𝗍𝗁𝗎𝗌 𝖿𝖺𝗋. 𝖨𝗍 𝗁𝖺𝖽 𝖺 𝖼𝖾𝗋𝗍𝖺𝗂𝗇 𝖼𝗁𝖺𝗋𝗆 𝗍𝗁𝗈𝗎𝗀𝗁, 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝖨 𝖽𝗂𝖽 𝗐𝖺𝗇𝗍 𝗍𝗈 𝗋𝖾𝖺𝖽 𝖺𝗅𝗅 𝖿𝗂𝗏𝖾 𝗈𝖿 𝗍𝗁𝖾𝗌𝖾 𝖵𝖫𝖠𝖲𝖮𝖵 𝖡𝖱𝖠𝖳𝖵𝖠 𝖻𝗈𝗈𝗄𝗌.
𝗈𝖿 𝗇𝗈𝗍𝖾: 𝖨 𝖼𝖺𝗇 𝗌𝖾𝖾 𝗌𝗈𝗆𝖾 𝗋𝖾𝖺𝖽𝖾𝗋𝗌 𝖻𝖾𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝗍𝗎𝗋𝗇𝖾𝖽 𝗈𝖿𝖿 𝖻𝗒 𝖫𝗎𝗄𝖺- 𝗂𝗍 𝖼𝖺𝗇 𝗌𝖾𝖾𝗆 𝖺𝗌 𝗍𝗁𝗈𝗎𝗀𝗁 𝗂𝗍 𝗀𝖾𝗍𝗌 𝖺 𝖻𝗂𝗍 𝖽𝖾𝗇𝗌𝖾 𝗍𝗈 𝗄𝖾𝖾𝗉 𝗉𝗎𝗌𝗁𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝗍𝗁𝖾 𝖼𝗁𝖺𝗋𝖺𝖼𝗍𝖾𝗋 𝗂𝗇𝗍𝗈 𝗍𝗁𝖾 "𝖼𝗋𝖺𝗓𝗒" 𝗈𝗇𝖾 𝗍𝗋𝗈𝗉𝖾.
╝ Happy reading ┊┊┊┊ ➶ ❁۪ ｡˚ ✧
August 22, 2024
We get glimpses of Luka in the 2nd book Merciless Princess. We know he is unhinged, bullets never get him and he is a widower. In Sweetest Scars we get to meet Luka, see into his beautiful soul...i cried with his hurt and the way he speaks to his "muse", how he was trying for 9 years to meet death because he had nothing else to live for....until he met Vivian! She made his dead heart beat again, feel desire and wanting impossible things...Vivian was a job...he had to find her and bring het back to her "fiance"...Vivian is also deeply hurt by someone who should have protected her. She is now hiding, living a low key life in order to avoid the monster from her past. When Luka and Vivian gave into their feelings for each other sparkles and miracles happened....they healed each other's hurt beautifully... I love how Alexa writtes her stories....and like the previous 2 Vlassov Bratva books, this one touched me deep!!! Highly recommended, heartfelt, spicy and simply beautiful!!!
January 22, 2025
Sweetest Scars by Alexa Michaels is the third book in The Vlasov Bratva series. This book was so entertaining and had me laughing so many times. The banter between the two main characters was so great. I also loved the plot line in this book. It was well paced and I loved how the main conflict was resolved at the end. I love how these characters have depth. This isn't my favorite story in the series but I still really enjoyed the story. I read this book in one sitting.
Vivian was feisty, determined, and witty. Her banter with Luka was so entertaining. Luka was an absolute nut and I loved everything about him. I loved how they pushed each others buttons. I was not expecting Luka’s past but it made me understand him so much more. Luka and Vivian had great chemistry and I loved seeing them give into their feelings for each other. Overall, the characters and plotline was well written. I recommend this book!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
HAPPY READING
Vivian was feisty, determined, and witty. Her banter with Luka was so entertaining. Luka was an absolute nut and I loved everything about him. I loved how they pushed each others buttons. I was not expecting Luka’s past but it made me understand him so much more. Luka and Vivian had great chemistry and I loved seeing them give into their feelings for each other. Overall, the characters and plotline was well written. I recommend this book!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
HAPPY READING
August 15, 2024
Rating: 5⭐️
Would Recommend: Hell yeah! 🌶️🌶️.5
My Review:
Luka and Vivian are absolutely made for each other. Both a little crazy, a little psycho, but oh-so-perfect together. 😈
Out of all Alexa’s FMCs, Vivian takes the crown as the most badass one—seriously, I loved her! 🔥And Luka? The perfect psycho MMC, hands down. And yes, I'm basing this entirely on the 🐊 situation (iykyk). I can't even begin to dive into the rest of his wild shenanigans, but trust me, he keeps things interesting.
There wasn’t a single dull moment in this book. The pacing, the spice, the action—everything was on point! The ending was sweet and satisfying, but what’s got me really excited is that Ilya’s book is next! I’ve been itching to get into his story since I read this series's prequel. 🙌
Tropes:
Marriage of Convenience
Mafia
Feisty heroine
Would Recommend: Hell yeah! 🌶️🌶️.5
My Review:
Luka and Vivian are absolutely made for each other. Both a little crazy, a little psycho, but oh-so-perfect together. 😈
Out of all Alexa’s FMCs, Vivian takes the crown as the most badass one—seriously, I loved her! 🔥And Luka? The perfect psycho MMC, hands down. And yes, I'm basing this entirely on the 🐊 situation (iykyk). I can't even begin to dive into the rest of his wild shenanigans, but trust me, he keeps things interesting.
There wasn’t a single dull moment in this book. The pacing, the spice, the action—everything was on point! The ending was sweet and satisfying, but what’s got me really excited is that Ilya’s book is next! I’ve been itching to get into his story since I read this series's prequel. 🙌
Tropes:
Marriage of Convenience
Mafia
Feisty heroine
August 18, 2024
I absolutely love this series and was anxiously waiting for Luka’s story. He has quickly become one of my favorite unhinged MMCs. This story does not disappoint and is a great addition to The Vlasov Bravata series.
Luka finally gets a second chance at love and this author created the perfect FMC for him. Vivian too feisty, stubborn, takes no sh1t from Luka and can be as unhinged as him when pushed to far.
Luka and Vivian meet when he kidnaps her as part of a job. However, the more he learns about her the more he is not willing to let her go. In this story we have a fantastic mafia romance (I cannot get enough of this family), action, v10lenc3, unaliving and smexy times that will burn up your Kindle.
The plot is fast moving, and the dialogue is witty and sharp. If you have not read this author, you need to grab this series. You will not regret it.
Luka finally gets a second chance at love and this author created the perfect FMC for him. Vivian too feisty, stubborn, takes no sh1t from Luka and can be as unhinged as him when pushed to far.
Luka and Vivian meet when he kidnaps her as part of a job. However, the more he learns about her the more he is not willing to let her go. In this story we have a fantastic mafia romance (I cannot get enough of this family), action, v10lenc3, unaliving and smexy times that will burn up your Kindle.
The plot is fast moving, and the dialogue is witty and sharp. If you have not read this author, you need to grab this series. You will not regret it.
August 16, 2024
Wow so good!
When Luka is ordered to finish a job that involves Vivian, he has to disobey because he can't lose her.
The obsession that Luka develops for Vivian is almost like if he lost her, he would die. It's slow build but not real slow and she is enamoured off him, just doesn't understand what he really stands for initially. But their connection and unusual dynamic is explosive and steamy bordering on a D/S relationship.
Luka is very much alpha, dominant and possessive where as Vivian is somewhat naive but very smart and sassy.
Very well written with an engaging plot that draws you in and characters that fill their roles totally.
Very well done, highly recommended!!
When Luka is ordered to finish a job that involves Vivian, he has to disobey because he can't lose her.
The obsession that Luka develops for Vivian is almost like if he lost her, he would die. It's slow build but not real slow and she is enamoured off him, just doesn't understand what he really stands for initially. But their connection and unusual dynamic is explosive and steamy bordering on a D/S relationship.
Luka is very much alpha, dominant and possessive where as Vivian is somewhat naive but very smart and sassy.
Very well written with an engaging plot that draws you in and characters that fill their roles totally.
Very well done, highly recommended!!
August 18, 2024
awe
Every AM book I’ve read leaves me giddy with dried tears but with giggles still escaping. Her characters are multifaceted, lovable (scoundrels, sometimes), and entertaining. The relationship dynamics are entrancing and so easy to cheer for. The sad moments have me tearing up or crying, but the levity and joy elsewhere balance them well. The backstories aren’t happy ones here, but they find their happiness nonetheless.
Also, I’m holding out for the sequel a certain character refers to.
I have loved the first two books of the Vlasov Bratva, and I’m loving this one just as much.
Every AM book I’ve read leaves me giddy with dried tears but with giggles still escaping. Her characters are multifaceted, lovable (scoundrels, sometimes), and entertaining. The relationship dynamics are entrancing and so easy to cheer for. The sad moments have me tearing up or crying, but the levity and joy elsewhere balance them well. The backstories aren’t happy ones here, but they find their happiness nonetheless.
Also, I’m holding out for the sequel a certain character refers to.
I have loved the first two books of the Vlasov Bratva, and I’m loving this one just as much.
August 20, 2024
There are not many authors who I wait for their books eagerly...but Alexa is one of them. Sweetest Scars looks at the Vlasov Bravata, this time we get to see Luka. I must say Luka, though completely psycho, is one of my favorite mafia men. He falls fast and hard and will do anything to protect those he loves. This brings in Vivian the fierce and stubborn female lead who doesn't want to fall for Luka but just can't help it. Their chemistry is on fire, and the two are perfect for each other. The story is perfect and the characters are wonderfully developed. I highly recommend this read to those who like a dark mafia romance.
August 29, 2024
4.75
This series has become one of my favourite mafia worlds. I loved the other two in the series, this book was just as good. Luka and Vivian's chemistry and banter were everything. I liked that Vivian was presented as a strong woman who wouldn't submit to the decisions of those around her. She would constantly speak her mind and I liked how understanding Luka was. I liked the plot of this book as well. There were some emotional moments in the books which was nice to read about as it gave the characters depth. I am excited to read Ilya's book as well.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This series has become one of my favourite mafia worlds. I loved the other two in the series, this book was just as good. Luka and Vivian's chemistry and banter were everything. I liked that Vivian was presented as a strong woman who wouldn't submit to the decisions of those around her. She would constantly speak her mind and I liked how understanding Luka was. I liked the plot of this book as well. There were some emotional moments in the books which was nice to read about as it gave the characters depth. I am excited to read Ilya's book as well.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 29, 2025
Dark mafia with giggles
I love a good dark Mafia romance but they tend to bleed into others because they're all the same. This one however had a very nice twist.
Luka is the Russian Mafia enforcer sent to bring home a runaway bride in order to win favors for their upcoming projects. Vivian is a runaway, but not the bride he thinks. They both have dark, painful pasts that crash into each other. They have to deal with each other and new obstacles if they are gonna survive the "road trip" home.
Very good, dark, lip biting, no slow burn, spicy scenes! The plot was really good too.
HEA and now cliffhanger
I love a good dark Mafia romance but they tend to bleed into others because they're all the same. This one however had a very nice twist.
Luka is the Russian Mafia enforcer sent to bring home a runaway bride in order to win favors for their upcoming projects. Vivian is a runaway, but not the bride he thinks. They both have dark, painful pasts that crash into each other. They have to deal with each other and new obstacles if they are gonna survive the "road trip" home.
Very good, dark, lip biting, no slow burn, spicy scenes! The plot was really good too.
HEA and now cliffhanger
August 14, 2024
Absolutely fantastic read.
Luka and Vivian were everything. Their tension and banter were spot on, I was here for it all.
This was the third book in the series, and it was slightly darker but just great as the first two.
The plot gripped me throughout. There wasn't a dull moment.
Vivan was kidnapped by Luka as a favour, but sparks flew between them, and he couldn't hand her over. Instead, he decides to try and save her.
As always, the writing was amazing. The author writes in such a way that you can't help fall in love with the world she creates and also the characters.
Luka and Vivian were everything. Their tension and banter were spot on, I was here for it all.
This was the third book in the series, and it was slightly darker but just great as the first two.
The plot gripped me throughout. There wasn't a dull moment.
Vivan was kidnapped by Luka as a favour, but sparks flew between them, and he couldn't hand her over. Instead, he decides to try and save her.
As always, the writing was amazing. The author writes in such a way that you can't help fall in love with the world she creates and also the characters.
August 20, 2024
*5 STARS!* hands down. Alexa Michaels did it again! ugh, i love her. the Vlasov Bratva series has been a favorite for me. Luka and Vivian is... *chef's kiss*. their story rivals the first two books in the series. they're just perfect for each other. it might be the best book in the Vlasov Bratva series thus far, in my opinion. i devoured this one so fast and i just cannot get enough. this author is one to look out for for sure. i've loved her since Bartered Vows, and every book she's released since has been amazing. always looking forward for the next fix.
August 22, 2024
Fanfreakingtastic! Alexa Michaels does it again with her third book in the series and I’m honestly not sure which one I love most, but man do I really love Luka! And Vivian is an excellent FMC, the two make a perfect pair, they match well, a pair of psychos and brains. He kidnaps her but she’s no damsel in distress. Enemies to lovers, the book does a great job progressing the relationship in a natural way. Spice scenes are excellent. I’m now impatiently waiting for the 4th book! Very grateful for the opportunity to arc read this book.
August 31, 2024
I loved the MMC Luka, he is completely crazy for his lady and just completely crazy. Which is a great combo to me. I also really liked the FMC Vivian, she is definitely a great match for Luka. Their banter and interactions are the best, plus their crazy plays well with each other.
I also loved the found family aspect and how his family accepted her from the beginning and never made her feel like an outsider or anything. Though I do wish we saw a bit more interactions between Vivian and his family.
I received a free copy of this book from Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I also loved the found family aspect and how his family accepted her from the beginning and never made her feel like an outsider or anything. Though I do wish we saw a bit more interactions between Vivian and his family.
I received a free copy of this book from Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 21, 2025
I started 'Sweetest Scars' without reading the first two books in the series, but surprisingly, it worked well as a standalone novel. I snagged it during a KU day. The author's writing style and plot had me hooked. While I felt as though I was missing some background information, particularly in the beginning, it's possible that was already explored in the previous books. Overall, 'Sweetest Scars' was an enjoyable mafia romance read. If you're a fan of the genre, you'll likely enjoy this one too!
(I’d suggest starting with book one in the series)
(I’d suggest starting with book one in the series)
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