Nikolai

The Kansas City Reapers #1

by Elle Sparrow

Maddy blew into our safe house like a storm.

She witnessed a brutal crime, and now those responsible want her dead.

Now it is my job to protect her.

But can I keep her safe while maintaining my sanity?

She is fierce, bratty, and irresistible.

The sparks between us are impossible to ignore.

She calls to a side of me I keep hidden from almost everyone.

Through it all, danger lurks around every corner.

Trust is scarce, and disaster is only a heartbeat away.

The more we learn, the more questions we face.

The job was keep the girl safe.

But what am I supposed to do when protecting her means I can’t protect my heart?

Genres: Dark Romance, BDSM, Contemporary Romance, Romance, Forced Proximity, M F Romance, Dark

474 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 13, 2024

About the author

Elle Sparrow has had stories roaming in her mind for years. When the COVID-19 Pandemic caused states and counties to issue stay-at-home orders, resulting in her being laid off from work as a paralegal, she seized the opportunity to tell you the story that is The Omega Trilogy. Her books take a look into a world and a community that she has been a part of for over a decade, bringing personal experiences, along with research, into her craft.

When she isn't writing, Elle spends her time with her loving family, as well as working full-time as a paralegal, once the stay-at-home orders were lifted and she could return to the office, that is.

With the love and support from her family and friends, and many more stories in her mind that are begging to be told, she has no plans to stop writing, now that the creative goddess inside of her has been awakened!

Reviews

[Shhh ... I’m Reading · Rating 5 out of 5]

“To all my girls who love being called good girl… and who smirk after because they know good and well that’s just not fucking true. This book is for you, my sassy little brats.” ~ Elle Sparrow

⚠️ Murder
⚠️ Witness Protection
⚠️ Forced Proximity
⚠️ Dom
⚠️ Brat / Brat Handler
⚠️ BDSM
⚠️ Punishment / Funishment
⚠️ Spanking
🌶️ SPICEYYYYYY 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

This book 👀 I was down for it! 🖤 The cover 🥵🫦 I just want to sink my teeth into it!

Maddie goes out with friends, heads in the wrong direction and comes across something she wished she didn’t. Needless to say she is put into witness protection. Sent to a house of 5 ex-military men.

Nikolai - dominate, intense and protective! He’s all for taming Maddie’s brattiness!

Get ready for an exciting bdsm book that was truly well written!

The banter between the “brothers” and Maddy was perfect! I love these guys! I can’t wait for book 2 in the Kansas City Reapers Series.

Before I end this review… I have to share ONE of my favorite scenes, as I couldn’t control my laughter!

~ “A little hot over there, princess?” he teased with a smirk.  “Maybe,” I snarked right back, matching that smirk with one of my own. “Then why don’t you turn on the fan?” …Quiet as a mouse, I tiptoed towards the bed and laid myself back on it seductively.  “I thought I told you to —” he began, but his words halted as he took notice of me there on the bed. I instantly doubled down on my efforts. “You are so good at what you do, fan. Keeping me cool and comfortable. It’s such a turn-on, don’t you think? And those blades, so sleek and sexy. Mmm, I can’t think of anything hotter than when you spin round and round. So fast. So effortless. It’s just so sexy,” …. Nikolai - “What in the fuck do you think you’re doing?” 🤣🤣🤣

[Larisa O · Rating 1 out of 5]

I can't finish this book. Maddy is very annoying. 😤😤😤

[Megan Moser · Rating 4 out of 5]

Calling all my bdsm lovers/ those curious! This one is for you! This was written in such a beautiful and empowering way, almost educating on what bdsm really is and what it can be.

The plot was great as well so though it was 🌶️ SPICY 🌶️ it also was thrilling! When a girl witnesses a murder from a suspected mafia king she is placed into special protective housing with 4 former military guys who now run a custom auto body shop. It’s their mission to keep her safe but Nikolai just can’t keep away.

🌶️ Spice level 5
🌶️ Forced Proximity
🌶️ Witness Protection
🌶️ Brat handler/ Brat
🌶️ Witty Banter

[Eve 🐦‍⬛ 🗡️💘 · Rating 2 out of 5]

RIP to my will to continue this read. DNF at 50%, and while I wanted to skim the rest, I decided life’s too short to keep reading something that isn’t clicking. I went into this hoping for a spicy mafia twist on Fifty Shades, but it didn’t quite deliver for me. The FMC’s “brat” qualities came off more petulant than playful, and phrases like “dom daddy-o” and “buddy” had me struggling to stay immersed. The “razor-back” tank top typo sealed the deal—I just couldn’t go on. That said, kudos to the author for the hard work of putting a story to paper (seriously, that’s no small feat). Unfortunately, it wasn’t for me, but I’m sure others might enjoy it more! The delicious torso on the cover remains the highlight.

[Chelsey Fortune · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am already eagerly awaiting book 2!! I love a spicy book but it also has to have a plot. This book was the perfect balance between the two. Just when I thought I knew exactly where the story was going, there was a complete shift that took me by surprise and set things up beautifully for a sequel. This is my first read of an Elle Sparrow book but it will definitely not be my last

[Petra Hart · Rating 4 out of 5]

I almost DNF’d it. Maddy was annoying with no vulnerability to balance it out, and the guys weren’t gelling as characters. Now, somehow it’s Chapter 20 and I’m invested.

BDSM: inventive, mostly impact play, but also primal and predicament.
Consent: enthusiastic
Dirty talk: above average
Piercings: none
Dynamic: brat & brat tamer
Age gap? No
Body image issues? No
Relationship: MF

The series:
Nico=brat tamer (Maddy)
Carrick=sadist (Bellamy)
Jax=ropemaster (Stella)
Sully=Daddy Dom (Violet)
Deacon=
Quinn=

[Stephanie Boling · Rating 4 out of 5]

It took me forever to read this book. I love Spice, and the book wasn't bad, it just seemed slow paced.

[Tisha Pettus · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 ⭐️ / 4🌶️
First book in a new series by Elle Sparrow. Also my first Elle read. It’s really a 4.5 star read for me….with some 5 star heat!

Maddy witnesses a brutal crime and goes into protective custody. But while there she finds the one thing she needs protection from….her growing attraction to Nikolai. Mandy is fierce and brave and stands down to no one. And is an outright brat to Niko.

Nikolai’s job is to protect her from the bad guys. But what if he’s the bad guy? What if he can’t protect her and his heart at the same time? Will Nikolai give in and Dominate Maddy?

This book is heavy on BDSM and the thing that is amazing, is that Elle presents it in an educational way. A format that made me understand the dynamic so that it wasn’t just a bully alpha male taking control. But how it’s about trust and boundaries. And setting those before any dom/sub relationship forms. I truly appreciated the respectful way it was written and explained to someone who isn’t in that community. I then understood how the dom/sub relationship is nurturing and caring for both parties.

Definitely recommend this book and can’t wait for book 2!!

[Starla · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hot! That’s what this book is. I absolutely love all the personalities of the male characters in this book!!! I greatly appreciate that this book doesn’t just jump into a bdsm relationship but requires the FMC to do some research and she and the MMC actually have an extensive conversation about limits, roles, etc before agreeing to be in that kind of relationship. I also greatly enjoy how they talk about boundaries and making sure they are held accountable. On top of all that, the book is super spicy, lots of tension, forces them to explore situations and thoughts that aren’t always easy and the fmc is such a strong character! She’s fantastic! I love that she doesn’t just crumble at the drop of a hat but holds her own with all those guys. Can’t wait to read more in this series!

[Micki-D · Rating 4 out of 5]

The plot for this book was great, it has a lot of spice. This book has a good balance between the plot and the spice. The story line is intriguing, adventurous, exciting, romantic, humours and all so spicy 🥵

Maddy accidentally walks in to the wrong building and witnesses a murder. Now she finds herself in the danger from a mafia boss.

With safe house compromised she has been placed into witness protection under the watchful eye of Nikolai and his team of ex-special ops comrades Jax, Deacon, Carrick, and Sully.

Nikolai and Maddy have instant chemistry with each other and the banter between them is great. They are both very well developed characters

[NayBookrecs · Rating 4 out of 5]

Madi and nik was a cute bdsm story , when I think of we just hanging out I think this is very much what people mean lol , the forced proximity made it even better . Madi is placed in a safe house after walking in a mob job. This is not heavy on the Mafia aspect & they plot mostly focused on the mc’s and their relationship where they agree from past relationship they just agree to keep things casual but they both can’t fight how well they fit together. Heavy on the spice aspect but it was nice to see how she did the spice during this read .. can’t wait for book 2 .

[Smut Cartel · Rating 5 out of 5]

She is fierce, bratty, and irresistible.
Trust is scarce, and disaster is only a heartbeat away.

One of my favourite parts of this book is the research that was put into the BDSM world and the understanding of the trust, roles and consent surrounding this. On top of that, this book had great plot, banter and plenty of spice. The chemistry between Nikolai and Maddy is perfection and I absolutely love how Bratty Maddy is!

Tropes:
- Forced proximity
- BDSM
- Possessive MMC
- Alpha Hero
- Bratty FMC

[Kaitlyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC review.

Nikolai & Maddy come together in an explosion of stubbornness and passion.

🌶️ 4
🖤 3
⭐️ 3.75 (rounded up to 4)

Tropes for this book include:
Forced proximity
Mafia Light
Trauma
Sass & Banter
BDSM
Crime Thriller
Touch her & Die
Possessive MMC

Maddy is not to be messed with. She can hold her own and I loved her bratty attitude. Nikolai is a dominant MMC that works is way through past trauma to go for what he wants.

I liked this book, for a first book of a series, there was some world building, and explaining that was understandable at the start, though in the middle the back and forth fluff / filler chapters dragged on. I really enjoyed the start and the end, the middle I felt could have focused a bit more of the outside threats and mystery. Though I also believe this will be coming more in the following.

I would also continue reading the series :)

Happy reading!
😊

[Ams · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Nikolai is first and foremost a BDSM romance and a mafia novel second. This plays out in that the majority of the story takes place in a safe house and focuses more on our MC’s adjustment to life after witnessing a murder.

I enjoyed the band of brothers and look forward to seeing how they develop in the next story.

The book is good, I recommend it even. I still hate the ending.


I received this advanced readers copy in exchange for a review. My thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sign me up for the witness protection please!!!

This book was just what I needed. The story line was phenomenal and the spice was the spiciest chef’s kiss. Elle does BDSM like no one else. And it was such a refreshing story as the brattiness of both MCs played off each other so well. I couldn’t get enough of these two, and the side characters, I can’t wait to see what’s coming next for them.

Run now to start this series.

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beeestie!!! You better RUN to get your hands on this book. Elle Sparrow....WOW! She absolutely crushed it! I can't wait to read more of this series! Niko and Maddy - I loved the banter. Brat energy was STRONG. Communication and trust - HUGE winners in this book. Seriously, can't wait for y'all to read this!

[Bookish Venturess · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a good book. If you are looking for spice as well as a good plot. I also loved the attitudes of the characters. The banter between everyone is just so good. I can't wait to read more of this series and have more from the characters.

[Carrie Hayhurst · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this book right from the beginning! They guys were hilarious and I would absolutely love being their friends! Love the dynamics and the drama and spicy scenes! I’m not normally a big fan of BDSM, but these were very well written and lots of different scenes! Overall, this is a well rounded spicy book I would recommend!

[Amy Brown · Rating 2 out of 5]

The men are written like cartoon characters and there's no end to the plot.

[Channy · Rating 1 out of 5]

DNF - I tired to hang in there & failed. FMC did my head in.

[Blake · Rating 4 out of 5]

Holy hotness! This storyline is so intriguing and it’s just the beginning as it eludes to continuing in the next books that come in this series.
The amount of spice and BDSM in this are incredible. I can’t get enough of Nikolai.

[Between The Covers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Man oh man what a deliciously beautiful book this was! I enjoyed it so very much. The banter, wit, humor, arguments, and spice oh man was it a perfect blend of bdsm kinky goodness. I did not want it to end at all. I loved Maddy and Niko together. They're absolutely perfect together. Her bratty behavior makes the brat tamer in him itch to correct her. And Nikos brothers in arms? They were pretty amazing as well! They treated Maddy well and spoke what they felt to both her and Niko. I can't wait to see what happens next! I am invested!

[Chelsie McClure · Rating 5 out of 5]

Be prepared to buy yourself new toys, because the "scenes" 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶 in this book are very descriptive 🥵🥵🥵🥵 and delicious. I love that the BDSM representation was ACCURATE! I find Maddy's brattiness is perfect and hilarious as a brat myself.

[Saundra Wright · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing new series!

Who says the good guys can't be dangerous? This looks to be another epic adventure series by Elle Sparrow. Just like the Temple Brothers, this is based around a diverse group of Alpha males. This time, the band of brothers is ex special ops who just want to claim a peaceful existence for themselves.

However, life can turn the best laid plans upside down. You will find no cookie cutter characters here. You will find excitement in and out of the bedroom entwined with an epic, long-running plot. So start your adventure now.

[Lindsey✨ · Rating 2 out of 5]

2⭐️ Disappointed for sure. There was no plot and just casual bdsm sex. The blip of plot that was had, continues on into a book that’s not out.
The romance wasn’t even believable either. There was no real getting to know each other besides a one sided scene.
Maddy was also bored the whole time she was in witness protection and I definitely felt it too. The only activities at this mansion in the middle of no where was sex? Please. Swimming? Art? Cooking? Reading? A gun range? Gardening? The author could have done annnnnything. These military boys had no fun toys? Yikes.
Maddy was also suppose to be really bratty and fiesty, which a lot of times came off childish instead, but then she forgave Nikolai for a big serious miscommunication with a single kiss and no convo? Pfffft. Not mention her relentless giggles and girlish behavior. The author didn’t do her any favors.

**Warning: bdsm, kink, gore**

Worth the read?: NO
Reread?: NO

Read if you like:
-witness protection
-military brotherhood house
-bdsm

[Queen Reviews · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book started out very interesting! I couldn't believe how crazy things started out when they were in the night club!! Of course the actions of that night are what set the course for the rest of this story. We meet everyone here who I think is going to be part of the rest of this series. Deacon, Carrick, Jax and Sully. Nikolai and Maddy have instant chemistry with each other and things with them advance pretty quickly. I liked that she took the time to get educated on something before she jumped in fully. Then we see how she is open to exploring things and having open communication with Nikolai. I really enjoyed this part because there is one thing that I hate is a miscommunication trope. Until there was indeed miscommunication. That was probably the most downer part of things once the story got started. Nikolai didn't seem like he could stand on anything. All it took was one whisper from one of his friends for him to be doubting everything even though he was just having an internal dialogue stating how much he was happy and ready for everything that was going to come with being with Maddy. This happens not once but twice. It really was kind of annoying to see someone who had been in the lifestyle and was committed to having good communication not have what they professed to want. The waffling just made me think that he didn't have his own mind. If anyone from the outside could come in and sway him one way or another then what would it take for someone to convince him to leave her? Like it was just not a good look. Then I was a little bit annoyed with Maddy because, this man and his indecision and inability to communicate nearly cost her, her life. Like she was inches away from being blood splatter all because he let someone else convince him of something that it appeared later on that they didn't even want either. Like it was just such a huge swing. I definitely did not appreciate how that all happened and then she just kinda forgave him after he admitted how much he cared and actually wanted to be in a real relationship. No groveling or nothing, just they were happy and back together. I was definitely wanting there to be more there. Like he definitely should have had some kind of punishment for that.

The spice in this book was pretty nice. I definitely have to give this about a 4 out of 5 in terms of spice. The two of them were definitely making sure that everyone in the house was aware of what was happening. There was no shame in their game. Overall, I give this book a 3 out of 5. I think if some of the extra scenes were made to be relevant to what was going on with the story then I would have been happier with how things went. Also of course there was the fact that I was not happy with how wishy washy Nikolai was. If he was willing to stand on how he felt instead of being swayed by others so easily then I would have been fine with everything else. I am curious about who is going to be next in this series. I really enjoyed the side characters even though some of them were a little annoying since they helped Nikolai with his wishy washy actions. Sully and Jax are definitely my faves! Who wouldn't like a gentle cooking and reading giant like Sully! The tech nerd that is Jax was also very interesting too! He became a good friend to not only Maddy but to me! I would recommend this series to anyone who likes the contemporary military vibes and anyone who likes ready about BDSM.

[Nicole Frederick · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Stars!
4 Chili peppers!

What a great entrance to this new book series! I've been a fan of Elle Sparrow's books for awhile now and this was no exception. I loved the lead in of the prologue that really set you up to get Maddie where she needed to be and right into the action.

This had one of my favorite microtropes: the "I'm definitely not going to fall for you because this is just friends/roommates/safehouse buddy with benefits for a specific amount of time and we're going our separate ways after that with no problems." Because it never works and the deliciousness of both characters realizing that they effed up and are definitely in love is THE. BEST. And this absolutely does not let the reader down. This little trope is also usually associated with a good "F*** it" moment, and again - we don't disappoint here! Elle Sparrow did this one so well with them both being in denial big time with all of these little tiny moments of small pieces of love but then the big boom of "well, crap - it turns out I'm all the way in love!"

Maddie and Nikolai were both very well developed characters - you could see where they were coming from and THEY COMMUNICATED WELL (mostly - except for that whole feelings thing, but what's the fun in that little microtrope we love so much)! They were grown up adults who had rational discussions about the "relationship" they were moving into - which brings me to the spice.

OMG. Yes. The discussions of what they were wanting made it so much better and I really liked the differentiation between kink vs BDSM and the education on BDSM. Elle has done this in other series and books as well - but it makes it so easy for someone who isn't in the lifestyle or hasn't read about it to jump in and half a good starting off point to read and understand what's happening. Because this is the first book, there's a bit more exposition, but it pays off.

I like my books heavier on the spice and this did NOT disappoint - the spice was spicing in the best way and when I tell you that Nikolai made it his job to stretch Maddie's understanding of pleasure...I mean it!! I LOVED that Maddie wasn't some virginal wall flower - she knew what she liked, what she wanted, and what she wanted to learn! It was so empowering for her and I loved that factor of the story.

Literally only minus 1/2 star because I found myself more feral for Deacon and Sully than anyone else in the whole story - which just makes me more excited for what comes next! I find this happens a lot in the first book of a series and honestly - it just makes me more feral for the next time around.

[Kaitlyn Chewning · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nikolai by Elle Sparrow is a thrilling, high-stakes romance that melds the intense world of crime with the equally turbulent realm of deep-seated personal connections. The story's premise is immediately gripping: Maddy, a fierce and headstrong witness, finds herself thrust into the dangerous orbit of Nikolai, a man tasked with ensuring her safety from those who want her silenced.

Maddy's entry into Nikolai's life is akin to a storm, disrupting the fragile balance of his controlled existence. Her character is a whirlwind of sass, bravery, and vulnerability, which makes her both a challenging and compelling figure. Her fierce independence and refusal to be cowed by the threats against her add a layer of complexity to the narrative, making her more than just a damsel in distress.

Nikolai, on the other hand, is portrayed as a protector with a dark and hidden side, whose primary mission is to keep Maddy safe. However, his growing attraction to her complicates this mission. The chemistry between them is palpable and fraught with tension, creating a sizzling dynamic that is impossible to ignore. The way Elle Sparrow navigates their evolving relationship against a backdrop of danger and intrigue is masterful.

The novel's exploration of trust and vulnerability is particularly poignant. As Maddy and Nikolai navigate their treacherous circumstances, their forced proximity breeds an intense connection that neither can deny. This relationship is further complicated by the various elements at play: the looming threat of those hunting Maddy, the secrets Nikolai keeps, and the intense emotional scars both characters bear.

Nikolai is not just a romance; it is a crime thriller that delves into the underworld of the mafia, witness protection, and the psychological aftermath of violence and betrayal. The inclusion of BDSM elements, spanking, and impact play adds an erotic edge to the story, catering to readers who appreciate a blend of sensuality and suspense.

Trigger warnings are crucial for this book, as it tackles heavy themes such as gun violence, PTSD, and murder. The narrative does not shy away from the gritty and often brutal reality of its characters' lives, which may be intense for some readers. However, these elements are handled with care, contributing to the authenticity and depth of the story.

Elle Sparrow's writing style is engaging and evocative, drawing readers into the dangerous and electrifying world she has created. The pacing is brisk, with danger lurking around every corner, ensuring that the reader is constantly on edge. The romantic tension is expertly woven into the fabric of the plot, making the stakes feel personal and immediate.

Overall, Nikolai is a captivating read that combines the thrill of a crime novel with the intensity of a passionate romance. It is a story about protection, both physical and emotional, and the risks we take when we allow ourselves to care deeply for someone else. Fans of forced proximity, mafia elements, and steamy, high-stakes romance will find Nikolai to be a compelling and satisfying read.

[theshadyivy · Rating 4 out of 5]

General: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.💫
Spice: 🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦

Nikolai is the first book in Elle Sparrow's new series, The Kansas City Reapers. This story was released in August.

Dedication:
To all my girls who love being called good girl... and who smirk after because they know good
and well that's just not fucking true. This book is for you, my sassy little brats.

Tropes:
🪢 Mafia
🪢 Thriller
🪢 Forced proximity
🪢 BDSM
🪢 Strong-headed FMC
🪢 Touch her and ☠️ 
🪢 Banter
🪢 Found family

Before you start reading this story, read the trigger warnings, because your mental health always comes first.

Brat:
- Noun DEROGATORY | HUMOROUS
- A submissive with spunk

That's the definition Elle provides at the beginning of the book, and in her note to the reader, she explains why she did it. The book is a brief excursion into the world of BDSM, especially the bratting kink — if you are interested or new to this kink, read the book.

The story is about Maddy, who accidentally witnesses a murder and is now in need of a safe environment, since the safe houses of the police have been compromised over the last few months. Luckily for her, the responsible detective is friends with some hot ex-military men — Nikolai, Sully, Jax, and Deacon. After a short period of time, Maddy's sassy mouth reels in the dom inside Niko, and the story proceeds predictably.

The spice is extraordinary, and you will learn a lot about bratting and some BDSM techniques, but in my opinion, the plot is lacking depth.

Quotes:

"Not on your life. In fact - Oh god," I groaned, unable to continue my sassing when his hips swiveled and hit a different spot completely, rendering me speechless for a moment. "In fact, I was getting bored," I panted out, not at all delivering the bratty wit I had intended.

"I told you to call me Sir. This is your last warning. Next time gets you a spanking." I couldn't help the way my eyes widened with excitement — or the way my panties flooded with arousal at the thought of being spanked again.

"Just shut up and say it again," I urged her, needing desperately to hear the words.
"Well, which is it?" She said, finally offering the smallest hint of a smile. "Do you want me to
shut up, or to say it again?"

"Maddy... fuck..." His groan of unadulterated need was music to my ears. This is what I wanted, more than anything. To make him lose his mind, the way he'd done for me so many times.

#indieauthor #newauthor #booklover #bookgirl #books #darkromance #reader #spicybooks #newbooks #pocketbook #touchheranddie #foundfamily #mafia #forcedproximity #bdsm #banter #brat #theshadyivy

[JG · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Nikolai by Elle Sparrow, the first installment of the Kansas City Reapers series, is an exhilarating ride through the dark and seductive world of crime thriller romance. This book masterfully blends mystery and suspense with intense, steamy moments that are sure to keep readers on the edge of their seats. Though I typically gravitate towards contemporary romances with tropes like Friends to Lovers, Boss and Employee, and Enemies to Lovers, Nikolai captivated me from the very first page, pulling me into a genre I don’t often explore.

The story centers around Maddy, a strong, sassy, and brave character who finds herself in a deadly predicament after witnessing a brutal crime. Nikolai, tasked with protecting her, is a brooding and enigmatic figure with a dark, hidden side. His primary mission is to keep Maddy safe, but as they are forced into close proximity, the sparks between them become impossible to ignore. The chemistry between Maddy and Nikolai is electric, and their forbidden love adds an additional layer of tension to the story.

Elle Sparrow excels at crafting complex characters who are both relatable and compelling. Maddy’s fierce independence and vulnerability make her a heroine to root for, while Nikolai’s protective instincts and internal struggles add depth to his character. Their dynamic is a rollercoaster of emotions, with each twist and turn heightening the stakes.

The spicy scenes in Nikolai are off the charts, with BDSM elements that include spanking, bondage, praise kink, etc. These scenes are graphic but well-integrated into the narrative, enhancing the story rather than overshadowing it. The author strikes a perfect balance, ensuring that the romance and suspense complement each other seamlessly.

Elle Sparrow’s writing is vivid and immersive, making you feel as though you are right there with Maddy and Nikolai, experiencing every moment alongside them.

Nikolai is a must-read for fans of steamy books with elements of crime thriller romance. Even if this genre is outside your usual preference, as it is for me, you’ll find yourself thoroughly engrossed in this compelling story. The blend of mystery, romance, and steamy scenes creates an unforgettable reading experience. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a thrilling and passionate read.