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Volkov Bratva #4
A Monster Is Coming
All I wanted was to be free, to not be scared anymore. Was that too much to ask?
I was the unwanted bastard daughter of Finn Byrne. Many feared him and women loved him. My mother didn’t want me, but my birth kept Finn coming around.
After being used as a punching bag for most of my life, I decided to run. The first mistake I made was staying in a small town. The second mistake was falling in love with a guy I barely knew.
Peter lied to me. He manipulated me. Ivan Volkov gave him a job to do, and that was to make me fall in love with him, and get me pregnant. Well, he did all of those things, and I hate him for it, and I love him for it.
I also discovered I’m a wealthy woman. It would seem my grandmother didn’t like her son, nor any of his offspring, but she did like me. I’m the one who has control over the Byrne empire.
And I have a choice to make.
When the time comes, I can choose to leave the Volkov Bratva forever and have my freedom, or I can remain Peter’s wife. I love him, but he doesn’t know how to love me. What choice do I have?
I was the unwanted bastard daughter of Finn Byrne. Many feared him and women loved him. My mother didn’t want me, but my birth kept Finn coming around.
After being used as a punching bag for most of my life, I decided to run. The first mistake I made was staying in a small town. The second mistake was falling in love with a guy I barely knew.
Peter lied to me. He manipulated me. Ivan Volkov gave him a job to do, and that was to make me fall in love with him, and get me pregnant. Well, he did all of those things, and I hate him for it, and I love him for it.
I also discovered I’m a wealthy woman. It would seem my grandmother didn’t like her son, nor any of his offspring, but she did like me. I’m the one who has control over the Byrne empire.
And I have a choice to make.
When the time comes, I can choose to leave the Volkov Bratva forever and have my freedom, or I can remain Peter’s wife. I love him, but he doesn’t know how to love me. What choice do I have?
280 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 2, 2024
163 people are currently reading
141 people want to read
About the author
Sam Crescent
547 books5,495 followersSam Crescent is passionate about fiction. She loves a good erotic romance and so it only made sense for her to spread her wings and start writing. She began writing in 2009 and finally got that first acceptance in 2011 by Total-E-Bound.
She loved creating new characters and delving into the worlds that she creates. When she’s not panicking about a story or arguing with a character, she can be found in her kitchen creating all kinds of havoc. Like her stories the creations in the kitchen can be just as dubious but sometimes things turn out great.
She loved creating new characters and delving into the worlds that she creates. When she’s not panicking about a story or arguing with a character, she can be found in her kitchen creating all kinds of havoc. Like her stories the creations in the kitchen can be just as dubious but sometimes things turn out great.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
August 24, 2024
I gave this book an extra star because Sam Crescent made an effort with the storyline even though it's the repeatedly recycled garbage which she won't change. The plot twists kept me reading but this is my least favorite in this book series.
April 29, 2025
Okay, Okay listen this was fun but damn Niahm can not catch a break! Also, I wasn't expecting to cry for Ivan. I wanted more of his lore but DAMN. I'm guessing we're not going to get a book for him, but I really want him to find love again. I want him to be happy! T__T Can't wait for the next book, whenever that is.
October 20, 2024
The book tells Peter and Niamh`s story, how they meet and how they fall in love, story which starts at the insistence of Ivan, that from some unknown reasons, in the beginning, sends one of his team to make a girl fall in love with him and also pregnant with his child.
Both mc come from families in which the abuse was the way to raise your kid, and no one will do a thing to stop to it, instead they will enjoy watching the “parents” do it, in one case even paying for it. Both of them had to deal with abuse and the way they reacted was different. Like the two faces of a coin, they represent the child that was built from the same material but approached the world in different ways, and for both the main theme is surviving and overcoming the circumstances that life threw at them.
Niamh is this innocent person that wants nothing to do with that way of living, which is why she will escape it. Later she will have to come to terms with loving a man that is part of something that she despises, because loving him involves going back to be part of one organization.
Peter, on the other hand, was forced to be a part of the organization and has become this hard man that does what he has to, that has loyalty to this man that saved him from being a mere pion in his father sick games. The heartache that he had to overcome in order to survive with a fracture of what it means to be a sane person was what he had to do, and as he begins to get to know Niamh he is thinking about the past and analyzes it, which is like his own version of therapy.
We can say that the book has two parts: one in which they get to know each other while wearing their masks, each having a secret to hide, the difference being the fact that Peter already knows hers, and there is the second part in which they already know the other, but this is where they really get to know what makes the other thick, and what is the essence of that person. Also, this is the part where everything comes to light and not just about the two, but also about the whole squad that are part of Ivan`s team.
What looked like an easy, but bothersome task for Peter becomes a difficult one when he is meet with a person so innocent that does not react as he expects her to do. Which frustrates and motivates him to direct all of his energy to achieve his goal, and that will later make him to get so involved that he doesn`t even notices when what used to be the baseline of his character becomes an annoying and unfair treatment for his “charge”.
Peter wants to take his time with making her comfortable enough to come to him and be more relaxed in his presence, but the men, hired by her father to find her, forces him to hurry the process of getting closer to her, which is why he pretends to be drunk to go to her and kiss her. But even after their kiss she is not reacting the way he wants her to and in accordance with his timeline, which frustrates him to no end. But that is because any type of attention is so unexpected for her. She is used with being ignored and not attractive for men that she does not interpret his actions as a “way to get her attention” but as necessity for doing his apparent job of teaching her to swim.
The build up from the moment he meets her until they start a relationship is nice to read, you get to see a change in Peter`s attitude towards Niamh. He goes from just wanting to get things done to considering what does she deserves and being mad when he thinks that she is treated differently, even if he still is not at the point where is ready to recognize the fact that he even likes her, let alone falling in love with her.
During their relationship in the small city, they both feel guilty about lying and are feeling remorseful, he is also mad when he considers that she loves the fake version of himself and not who he really is; she feels guilty for starting things with him when she plans to leave the city and him behind to move to a safer place.
Because they have protection from Ivan and his people, they get caught in the moment and let their guard down, moment in which they mingle in the crowd of people that came to a fair, where everything gets turned upside down, and we move to the next phase of their story where all of their cards are on the table, where they get to know the real person and not just the illusion, this is where they learn to deal with the complex person that the other is, with all of his/her qualities and the flaws, and start the process of learning to accept them.
The wedding what comes after is nicely done, Ivan gives them the option to get out of the marriage if they want to. Niamh takes her time to think about it a little bit, but she is sure she wants to remain married to him and even plans a nice way to tell him that.
For Peter this option comes as unnecessary as he already accepted the situation as it was, what he had to do at the orders form Ivan. He accepted that she will be his wife at the beginning, the only thing that changed for him as the book proceeds is not wanting to remain married but the motivation for wanting to do so. If in the beginning he just did what was ordered to do, over the time he came to want her to be his wife because he wanted her and not just as a duty. Even if he keeps insisting that he does not “do love”, is pretty clear that he loves her a little.
The tragic events that they have to go through puts some distance between them, but is something that will bring them even closer in the end. Get ready to share a few tears, because that is unavoidable.
And in the end, we need to talk about everybody favorite matchmaker, this father of the organization, a godlike creature that knows everything, is showing up everywhere and is playing his tricks. We finally get more on his story, and it makes him to actually look human in this one. Not only he loses his cool when a touchy subject comes into discussion, but he shows a vulnerable part of himself. I would love to see him in the role of the groom at the hands of his “victims”.. I mean his men, and find happiness again.
This book does a really good job on making me want to read the next one no mater whom is about. Being either Victor`s or the suggested couple: The Beast and The Butcher`s. This is one of those series where you love reading it as soon as it is published, but at the same time hate reading an ongoing series because you want to read the next one like yesterday and the waiting game is so no fun.
I did receive an advance review copy for free, but I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Both mc come from families in which the abuse was the way to raise your kid, and no one will do a thing to stop to it, instead they will enjoy watching the “parents” do it, in one case even paying for it. Both of them had to deal with abuse and the way they reacted was different. Like the two faces of a coin, they represent the child that was built from the same material but approached the world in different ways, and for both the main theme is surviving and overcoming the circumstances that life threw at them.
Niamh is this innocent person that wants nothing to do with that way of living, which is why she will escape it. Later she will have to come to terms with loving a man that is part of something that she despises, because loving him involves going back to be part of one organization.
Peter, on the other hand, was forced to be a part of the organization and has become this hard man that does what he has to, that has loyalty to this man that saved him from being a mere pion in his father sick games. The heartache that he had to overcome in order to survive with a fracture of what it means to be a sane person was what he had to do, and as he begins to get to know Niamh he is thinking about the past and analyzes it, which is like his own version of therapy.
We can say that the book has two parts: one in which they get to know each other while wearing their masks, each having a secret to hide, the difference being the fact that Peter already knows hers, and there is the second part in which they already know the other, but this is where they really get to know what makes the other thick, and what is the essence of that person. Also, this is the part where everything comes to light and not just about the two, but also about the whole squad that are part of Ivan`s team.
What looked like an easy, but bothersome task for Peter becomes a difficult one when he is meet with a person so innocent that does not react as he expects her to do. Which frustrates and motivates him to direct all of his energy to achieve his goal, and that will later make him to get so involved that he doesn`t even notices when what used to be the baseline of his character becomes an annoying and unfair treatment for his “charge”.
Peter wants to take his time with making her comfortable enough to come to him and be more relaxed in his presence, but the men, hired by her father to find her, forces him to hurry the process of getting closer to her, which is why he pretends to be drunk to go to her and kiss her. But even after their kiss she is not reacting the way he wants her to and in accordance with his timeline, which frustrates him to no end. But that is because any type of attention is so unexpected for her. She is used with being ignored and not attractive for men that she does not interpret his actions as a “way to get her attention” but as necessity for doing his apparent job of teaching her to swim.
The build up from the moment he meets her until they start a relationship is nice to read, you get to see a change in Peter`s attitude towards Niamh. He goes from just wanting to get things done to considering what does she deserves and being mad when he thinks that she is treated differently, even if he still is not at the point where is ready to recognize the fact that he even likes her, let alone falling in love with her.
During their relationship in the small city, they both feel guilty about lying and are feeling remorseful, he is also mad when he considers that she loves the fake version of himself and not who he really is; she feels guilty for starting things with him when she plans to leave the city and him behind to move to a safer place.
Because they have protection from Ivan and his people, they get caught in the moment and let their guard down, moment in which they mingle in the crowd of people that came to a fair, where everything gets turned upside down, and we move to the next phase of their story where all of their cards are on the table, where they get to know the real person and not just the illusion, this is where they learn to deal with the complex person that the other is, with all of his/her qualities and the flaws, and start the process of learning to accept them.
The wedding what comes after is nicely done, Ivan gives them the option to get out of the marriage if they want to. Niamh takes her time to think about it a little bit, but she is sure she wants to remain married to him and even plans a nice way to tell him that.
For Peter this option comes as unnecessary as he already accepted the situation as it was, what he had to do at the orders form Ivan. He accepted that she will be his wife at the beginning, the only thing that changed for him as the book proceeds is not wanting to remain married but the motivation for wanting to do so. If in the beginning he just did what was ordered to do, over the time he came to want her to be his wife because he wanted her and not just as a duty. Even if he keeps insisting that he does not “do love”, is pretty clear that he loves her a little.
The tragic events that they have to go through puts some distance between them, but is something that will bring them even closer in the end. Get ready to share a few tears, because that is unavoidable.
And in the end, we need to talk about everybody favorite matchmaker, this father of the organization, a godlike creature that knows everything, is showing up everywhere and is playing his tricks. We finally get more on his story, and it makes him to actually look human in this one. Not only he loses his cool when a touchy subject comes into discussion, but he shows a vulnerable part of himself. I would love to see him in the role of the groom at the hands of his “victims”.. I mean his men, and find happiness again.
This book does a really good job on making me want to read the next one no mater whom is about. Being either Victor`s or the suggested couple: The Beast and The Butcher`s. This is one of those series where you love reading it as soon as it is published, but at the same time hate reading an ongoing series because you want to read the next one like yesterday and the waiting game is so no fun.
I did receive an advance review copy for free, but I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 6, 2024
A MONSTER IS COMING is the fourth instalment in Sam Crescent’s contemporary, adult VOLKOV BRATVA dark, erotic, Bratva romance series . This is Volkov Bratva Brigadier Peter Orlov aka Peter Shadows, and twenty-five year old, Niamh Long aka Niamh Byrne’s story line. A MONSTER IS COMING can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty.
NOTE: Due to the nature of the story line premise, there WILL BE triggers for more sensitive readers.
Told from several first person perspectives including Niamh and Peter, A MONSTER IS COMING follows the building but fake relationship between our story line couple. Niamh Byrne is on the run from her abusive mother and father. Niamh’s father is the head of the Byrne Irish Mob, and as such, Niamh was an unwelcome addition to the Irish family.Hiding in plain sight, Niamh working as a cafe waitress would come face to face with her future in the guise of Peter Shadows, a man ‘sent’ to protect and retrieve our story line heroine . Peter Orlov’s latest assignment as a Volkov Brigadier, finds our hero following orders, orders meant to seduce and claim our story line heroine but Niamh’s location has been compromised, and Peter is forced to watch from the sidelines as his future implodes. What ensues is the building relationship between Peter and Niamh, and the potential fall-out when the truth is revealed, leaving a heart broken and abused Niamh lying in its’ wake.
The world building continues to focus on the head of the Volkov Bratva, Ivan Volkov, who determined to play matchmaker for his Brigadiers and men but Ivan has a secret, and our heroine is only one of three people who know the truth.
The relationship between Peter and Niamh is predicated upon a number of lies. Neither Peter or Niamh reveal the truth about their identities or their pasts, and in this, Niamh will feel betrayed, once again, facing life without kindness or love. The $ex scenes are provocative and intense but I dislike the use of a certain four-letter word.
All of the previous story line couples return in cameo appearances, as well as the head of the Volkov Bratva Ivan Volkov. We are introduced to Niamh’s father Finn Byrne, and her brother Finn Byrne jr. The requisite evil has many faces.
A MONSTER IS COMING is a story of power and control; secrets and lies, betrayal and vengeance, violence and abuse, family and friendships, forgiveness and love. The premise is emotional, dark, gritty and dramatic; the romance is seductive; the characters are broken, determined and charismatic.
www.thereadingcafe.com
copy supplied for review
NOTE: Due to the nature of the story line premise, there WILL BE triggers for more sensitive readers.
Told from several first person perspectives including Niamh and Peter, A MONSTER IS COMING follows the building but fake relationship between our story line couple. Niamh Byrne is on the run from her abusive mother and father. Niamh’s father is the head of the Byrne Irish Mob, and as such, Niamh was an unwelcome addition to the Irish family.Hiding in plain sight, Niamh working as a cafe waitress would come face to face with her future in the guise of Peter Shadows, a man ‘sent’ to protect and retrieve our story line heroine . Peter Orlov’s latest assignment as a Volkov Brigadier, finds our hero following orders, orders meant to seduce and claim our story line heroine but Niamh’s location has been compromised, and Peter is forced to watch from the sidelines as his future implodes. What ensues is the building relationship between Peter and Niamh, and the potential fall-out when the truth is revealed, leaving a heart broken and abused Niamh lying in its’ wake.
The world building continues to focus on the head of the Volkov Bratva, Ivan Volkov, who determined to play matchmaker for his Brigadiers and men but Ivan has a secret, and our heroine is only one of three people who know the truth.
The relationship between Peter and Niamh is predicated upon a number of lies. Neither Peter or Niamh reveal the truth about their identities or their pasts, and in this, Niamh will feel betrayed, once again, facing life without kindness or love. The $ex scenes are provocative and intense but I dislike the use of a certain four-letter word.
All of the previous story line couples return in cameo appearances, as well as the head of the Volkov Bratva Ivan Volkov. We are introduced to Niamh’s father Finn Byrne, and her brother Finn Byrne jr. The requisite evil has many faces.
A MONSTER IS COMING is a story of power and control; secrets and lies, betrayal and vengeance, violence and abuse, family and friendships, forgiveness and love. The premise is emotional, dark, gritty and dramatic; the romance is seductive; the characters are broken, determined and charismatic.
www.thereadingcafe.com
copy supplied for review
September 9, 2024
⭐️ 3.5 rounded up to 4 for this one because I think I may go back and read some previous books.
This is the fourth book in the series but you do not need to read the first three (I did not) to understand the story.
In this book, we see Peter, a Brigadier in the Volkov Bratva, commanded to make Niamh, daughter of the rival Irish Mafia leader, fall in love with him and get pregnant with his child to trap her. Over time, the hard headed Peter falls in love with her and fights for her when he dad comes calling.
Pros --
✨ This was an interesting plot that was very different from the usual mafia style story. I like Sam Crescent's world that has been built and I enjoy that women are actual people. That said:
✨ Sometimes these books feel so inherently misogynistic that I struggle with them, but in this book, I felt very much like the women were valued (and valued for more than just being virgins, which is kind of an annoying trope in Mafia romance). I appreciated that Peter was almost upset that she was so inexperienced.
✨ In this same vein, I am cool with a little "touch her and die" but sometimes these books get insane. Like "gouging a dude's eyes out because he looks in her direction" kind of insane. I loved that Peter was protective but also let Niamh do whatever she wanted. it felt very healthy (as much as these dark stories can be).
✨ One of the main brutes in the Volkov Bratva is a woman named "The Butcher", which was a fun twist and made me very interested in her backstory. I liked that no one batted an eye to this ruthless woman or treated her differently for her gender.
✨ Ivan, the Bratva leader, was actually likeable and respected by people, which was refreshing.
Cons --
✨ The conversations feel a little stilted and inauthentic for some reason. Lot's of "tell not show" which can take you out a little bit. Sometimes the inner monologues matched what was being said, and that felt a little repetitive.
✨ I really wanted to know Ivan's secrets, even just a few. We only get one or two of them in the book, and I wanted a little more payoff to feel like I was getting something out of it. Will I keep reading to find out? Maybe. But if I don't, I wanted a little more resolution.
Overall, a 3.5 star rounded up to four for me because it made me interested in going back to read other books in this series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is the fourth book in the series but you do not need to read the first three (I did not) to understand the story.
In this book, we see Peter, a Brigadier in the Volkov Bratva, commanded to make Niamh, daughter of the rival Irish Mafia leader, fall in love with him and get pregnant with his child to trap her. Over time, the hard headed Peter falls in love with her and fights for her when he dad comes calling.
Pros --
✨ This was an interesting plot that was very different from the usual mafia style story. I like Sam Crescent's world that has been built and I enjoy that women are actual people. That said:
✨ Sometimes these books feel so inherently misogynistic that I struggle with them, but in this book, I felt very much like the women were valued (and valued for more than just being virgins, which is kind of an annoying trope in Mafia romance). I appreciated that Peter was almost upset that she was so inexperienced.
✨ In this same vein, I am cool with a little "touch her and die" but sometimes these books get insane. Like "gouging a dude's eyes out because he looks in her direction" kind of insane. I loved that Peter was protective but also let Niamh do whatever she wanted. it felt very healthy (as much as these dark stories can be).
✨ One of the main brutes in the Volkov Bratva is a woman named "The Butcher", which was a fun twist and made me very interested in her backstory. I liked that no one batted an eye to this ruthless woman or treated her differently for her gender.
✨ Ivan, the Bratva leader, was actually likeable and respected by people, which was refreshing.
Cons --
✨ The conversations feel a little stilted and inauthentic for some reason. Lot's of "tell not show" which can take you out a little bit. Sometimes the inner monologues matched what was being said, and that felt a little repetitive.
✨ I really wanted to know Ivan's secrets, even just a few. We only get one or two of them in the book, and I wanted a little more payoff to feel like I was getting something out of it. Will I keep reading to find out? Maybe. But if I don't, I wanted a little more resolution.
Overall, a 3.5 star rounded up to four for me because it made me interested in going back to read other books in this series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 7, 2024
A Monster Is Coming - The Volkov Bratva - Book 4 - By Sam Crescent
This is the fourth book in the Volkov Bratva series and it was absolutely outstanding. It features this time around the brigadier Peter Orlov who has been tasked to go undercover as Peter Shadows and get Niamh Long, who is actually Niamh Byrne to fall in love with him and get her pregnant. Niamh is hiding and on the run trying to escape the vicious clutches of her father Finn Byrne, the head of the Irish Mafia. She had made it to the perfectly named town of Pickle Quest safely and in her own. She has no plans to stay long as she knows she needs to keep moving before her father gets his hands on her again but she never anticipated Peter or the affect he would have on her and her heart. This is a beautifully written story although it has fear, hurt, pain and violence, it also gives us love, heat, humour, happiness and family. Such an enjoyable read with characters who had been through so much yet still fought to stay together. I loved it. Ivan Volkov was up to his usual plotting and planning making sure every piece fell into place just so. His story broke my heart but makes you understand why he sometimes does the things he does. Again he made me smile with his constant matchmaking and meddling ways. I have high hopes for The Butcher and The Beast, and Ivan working his magic again with those two. I loved seeing the previous couples of the series and I cannot wait to see Victor get matched I feel he may fall the hardest and fastest after all his gloating to the other brigadiers it seems only fair lol. I know there will be another enemy approaching there is always someone who wants the Volkov crown, but I know Ivan will be ready and make them regret it. Such great characters and plot lines filled with twists and turns that will have you gripped throughout. I can't wait to see what happens in this series next. Happy Reading.
Please note that I was given an arc of this book for my honest review which is exactly what I have given.
5 out of 5 stars.
This is the fourth book in the Volkov Bratva series and it was absolutely outstanding. It features this time around the brigadier Peter Orlov who has been tasked to go undercover as Peter Shadows and get Niamh Long, who is actually Niamh Byrne to fall in love with him and get her pregnant. Niamh is hiding and on the run trying to escape the vicious clutches of her father Finn Byrne, the head of the Irish Mafia. She had made it to the perfectly named town of Pickle Quest safely and in her own. She has no plans to stay long as she knows she needs to keep moving before her father gets his hands on her again but she never anticipated Peter or the affect he would have on her and her heart. This is a beautifully written story although it has fear, hurt, pain and violence, it also gives us love, heat, humour, happiness and family. Such an enjoyable read with characters who had been through so much yet still fought to stay together. I loved it. Ivan Volkov was up to his usual plotting and planning making sure every piece fell into place just so. His story broke my heart but makes you understand why he sometimes does the things he does. Again he made me smile with his constant matchmaking and meddling ways. I have high hopes for The Butcher and The Beast, and Ivan working his magic again with those two. I loved seeing the previous couples of the series and I cannot wait to see Victor get matched I feel he may fall the hardest and fastest after all his gloating to the other brigadiers it seems only fair lol. I know there will be another enemy approaching there is always someone who wants the Volkov crown, but I know Ivan will be ready and make them regret it. Such great characters and plot lines filled with twists and turns that will have you gripped throughout. I can't wait to see what happens in this series next. Happy Reading.
Please note that I was given an arc of this book for my honest review which is exactly what I have given.
5 out of 5 stars.
August 6, 2024
Peter is the next picked by Ivan. His job, find Niamh and make her his before her father find her. Niamh was abused by her father Finn Byrne. He never had any love for her. Her chance to run and hide from him is only temporary. But she keeps her eye on all the strangers. When Peter befriends Niamh, things start to take a turn. But he still has a job to do. You knew this wasn’t going to be easy and Niamh was the one getting hurt by it all. Her father is an evil man. We find out through Ivan why Fin is the way he is towards his daughter. I have to say, that was interesting but also sad. And we also learn more about Ivan and his link to Niamh. THAT part will make you tear up. Peter isn’t all bad. He has issues like all the other Brigadiers. He doesn’t know what love is and isn’t even sure he can love. Well Niamh wakes him up. She shows him love and brings out a more softer side. You have to give it to Ivan, he knows how to get his men to wake up and notice their wives. This one has feeling drawn to Niamh more then the others. She is the outsider looking in. But she is no fool. I do love that we see a real change in Peter. And what about the other Brigadiers as well as the Beast and Butcher. You know Ivan has plans.
August 3, 2024
🖤ARC Review🖤
A Monster Is Coming, Book 4 in Volkov Bravta by Sam Crescent (helps to read the other books first) is about Niamh Long/Byrne & Peter Shadow/Orlov. Niamh is the unwanted, abused daughter of evil mobster Finn Byrne. She escapes him, runs away & living her life far from any mobsters. Peter is the loyal brigadier to head mobster Ivan, following orders to seek out Niamh & have her fall in love with him & get her pregnant. Lies surround Peter & Niamh's initial meet-cute, their dating, a lot of their conversations, leading up to their marriage, their marriage life and afterwards. Both of them answer for their lies. They both have experienced a lot of trauma in their lives & how they dealt with it. All of the other mobster couples make apperances in this story. The Beast & the Butcher along with Ivan the mobster matchmaker are supporting characters in this story. More history is also revealed about Ivan. Sex is hot. There is a hard-won HEA for Peter & Niamh.
⚠️ TWs at time of reading ARC⚠️
pgs 123 - 123:
Father beating his pregnant daughter to the point she loses her baby
pgs 174-175, 261-262 of ARC
Talk of off-scene rape & suicide
A Monster Is Coming, Book 4 in Volkov Bravta by Sam Crescent (helps to read the other books first) is about Niamh Long/Byrne & Peter Shadow/Orlov. Niamh is the unwanted, abused daughter of evil mobster Finn Byrne. She escapes him, runs away & living her life far from any mobsters. Peter is the loyal brigadier to head mobster Ivan, following orders to seek out Niamh & have her fall in love with him & get her pregnant. Lies surround Peter & Niamh's initial meet-cute, their dating, a lot of their conversations, leading up to their marriage, their marriage life and afterwards. Both of them answer for their lies. They both have experienced a lot of trauma in their lives & how they dealt with it. All of the other mobster couples make apperances in this story. The Beast & the Butcher along with Ivan the mobster matchmaker are supporting characters in this story. More history is also revealed about Ivan. Sex is hot. There is a hard-won HEA for Peter & Niamh.
⚠️ TWs at time of reading ARC⚠️
pgs 123 - 123:
Father beating his pregnant daughter to the point she loses her baby
pgs 174-175, 261-262 of ARC
Talk of off-scene rape & suicide
November 12, 2024
Dark romance full of hope…
Mafia romance is one of my favourite romance genres so I was happy to pick up the next book in the Voltov Bratva series. Ivan was marrying off his trusted men and Peter was next. Of course, this was not going to be a hearts and flowers road to the alter….
From the opening scene I knew Niamh was going to be a character I would remember. Family was betrayal that led to more pain. Running away was the only option but she was living on borrowed time. She kept to herself, had no friends and she always knew she would leave. And then Peter came to town. Sneaking under her radar, he was everything she never dreamed she would have. There was only one problem. He had an ulterior motive that she would learn at her cost…
With all the dark elements included, there were a surprising amount of personal revelations and sharing amongst the normally stoic members of Ivan’s group. The balance totally worked and made the romance feel right even within the believable-pushing boundaries of the plot. Highly entertaining, this is why I never hesitate to scoop up a new title by this author.
*I happily reviewed this story
**Thank you to BookSirens
Mafia romance is one of my favourite romance genres so I was happy to pick up the next book in the Voltov Bratva series. Ivan was marrying off his trusted men and Peter was next. Of course, this was not going to be a hearts and flowers road to the alter….
From the opening scene I knew Niamh was going to be a character I would remember. Family was betrayal that led to more pain. Running away was the only option but she was living on borrowed time. She kept to herself, had no friends and she always knew she would leave. And then Peter came to town. Sneaking under her radar, he was everything she never dreamed she would have. There was only one problem. He had an ulterior motive that she would learn at her cost…
With all the dark elements included, there were a surprising amount of personal revelations and sharing amongst the normally stoic members of Ivan’s group. The balance totally worked and made the romance feel right even within the believable-pushing boundaries of the plot. Highly entertaining, this is why I never hesitate to scoop up a new title by this author.
*I happily reviewed this story
**Thank you to BookSirens
August 26, 2024
Peter Orlov owes everything to the Volkov Bratva and its leader Ivan. Now Ivan has started to play matchmaker with his brigadiers and he's assigned Peter the task of going to a small town, making the runaway Niamh fall in love with him, and get her pregnant before her abusive father finds her. Ivan has always been a puzzle with his scheming, always two steps ahead of everyone in his own agenda, but Peter knows he's the wrong man for the job. With his background, he doesn't even know what love is. But he'll do anything Ivan asks, and in the end when the truth comes out and Niamh is given the choice to stay or leave, her decision just might break the heart he didn't know he'd lost.
A mafia boss is the last character I'd expect to be matchmaker, but in this series it just works. Throughout the series, Ivan leaves you wondering just what he's up to, but in this book a few of his motivations are revealed and things are starting to fall into place. I can't wait for the next book! Will Victor be next or the mysterious Butcher or Beast?
A mafia boss is the last character I'd expect to be matchmaker, but in this series it just works. Throughout the series, Ivan leaves you wondering just what he's up to, but in this book a few of his motivations are revealed and things are starting to fall into place. I can't wait for the next book! Will Victor be next or the mysterious Butcher or Beast?
August 26, 2024
Book number four in the Volkov Bratva series, this book (and all the books in this series) are longer than many of Sam's typical books, which is great as I can't get enough of the Volkov Bratva.
Like the couples in the books before them, Peter and Niamh are arranged/ manipulated/ forced into marriage by Ivan, head of the Volkov Bratva (matchmaker extraordinaire!) and then they must make the best of it. Their relationship however develops in a unique way to them, it isn't a straight out arranged marriage and there are secrets between the both of them as they start out together, which impacts upon their relationship and trust later, which they have to work through.
It was great to see more of the previous couples from the first three books and I enjoyed reading more of The Butcher and The Beast, surely they will have a story, and of course Ivan, every book in this series we get a little more of him, this one, we got even more, but it still left me hanging - I need his book (please).
I received a free copy of this book via Evernight and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Like the couples in the books before them, Peter and Niamh are arranged/ manipulated/ forced into marriage by Ivan, head of the Volkov Bratva (matchmaker extraordinaire!) and then they must make the best of it. Their relationship however develops in a unique way to them, it isn't a straight out arranged marriage and there are secrets between the both of them as they start out together, which impacts upon their relationship and trust later, which they have to work through.
It was great to see more of the previous couples from the first three books and I enjoyed reading more of The Butcher and The Beast, surely they will have a story, and of course Ivan, every book in this series we get a little more of him, this one, we got even more, but it still left me hanging - I need his book (please).
I received a free copy of this book via Evernight and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 4, 2024
Niamh is doing her best to hide from her shadowy past. Peter owes everything that he is to his. When his boss sends him on what can only be a fool's mission, wheels are set in motion that will not only fortify the Volkov Bratva's position but bring retribution years in the making.
I haven't read the other books in this series but I don't think you need to to understand the gist of it. Peter and Niamh are decent characters, wary of one another though Peter is fully aware of his purpose in Niamh's life. But Ivan? He makes the story. I get the feeling he makes the series. The man is a layers upon layers of mystery and intrigue. The little he revealed in this story only begs more questions, the biggest being, "Will he get his own happily ever after?"
Violence and romance, Crescent knows how to write them both without being incredibly grotesque and overly sappy. A good read. I'll have to go back and read the others and, hopefully, the rest to come.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I haven't read the other books in this series but I don't think you need to to understand the gist of it. Peter and Niamh are decent characters, wary of one another though Peter is fully aware of his purpose in Niamh's life. But Ivan? He makes the story. I get the feeling he makes the series. The man is a layers upon layers of mystery and intrigue. The little he revealed in this story only begs more questions, the biggest being, "Will he get his own happily ever after?"
Violence and romance, Crescent knows how to write them both without being incredibly grotesque and overly sappy. A good read. I'll have to go back and read the others and, hopefully, the rest to come.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 16, 2024
This is book 4 in the Volkov Bratva series. It's Peter and Niamh's story. This one is a bit different than the prior books in that Peter is undercover trying to win over Niamh. It runs a bit slower as well. I'm not sure why but Peter didn't fully resonate with me. He was likeable and fleshed out. There was just something missing & made him being a brigadier a bit unbelievable. I just felt he wasn't a dominant or hardened as the prior men.
The book centered more on Niamh and the mystery surrounding her & her ties to Ivan. While she was broken in a way, she was tougher than the other women. The book answered the mystery, but it took a long and winding route that made it difficult to push through. We learned more about Beast and Butcher in this arc. It's definitely a must read for those who've delved into the world of the Volkov just be prepared that it's slower than the previous books. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The book centered more on Niamh and the mystery surrounding her & her ties to Ivan. While she was broken in a way, she was tougher than the other women. The book answered the mystery, but it took a long and winding route that made it difficult to push through. We learned more about Beast and Butcher in this arc. It's definitely a must read for those who've delved into the world of the Volkov just be prepared that it's slower than the previous books. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 3, 2024
I am addicted to this series and fallen in love with Sam Crescent as I find her books appealing to me in so many ways mostly for the great storytelling, great vulnerable characters, dark themes and despite myself HEA with a twist endings.
Each book in the series focuses on a different couple and can be read as a standalone, but the added spice and bonus is knowing the other couples, background to story so far and especially the key character who brings them altogether in Ivan who is the mystery man of the series with each book revealing a little more of this secretive leader of the Volkov Bratva group. I cannot wait to discover even more of Ivan and to what will happen next, who will the next story be about.
Brilliant series and if you have read any other of Sam Crescent's books you know what to expect and never disappointed.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Each book in the series focuses on a different couple and can be read as a standalone, but the added spice and bonus is knowing the other couples, background to story so far and especially the key character who brings them altogether in Ivan who is the mystery man of the series with each book revealing a little more of this secretive leader of the Volkov Bratva group. I cannot wait to discover even more of Ivan and to what will happen next, who will the next story be about.
Brilliant series and if you have read any other of Sam Crescent's books you know what to expect and never disappointed.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 25, 2024
Monster is coming? who?
I’m confused again. Why would you title a book that only had A Monster is Coming on almost the very last page? This book wasn’t about that. But anyway, I can’t wait for the next books. This has got to be about Victor, and then one or two more.
The sixth area, in a 5 years later epilogue, is still without a Brigadier. The Beast and the Butcher are still in the running, so maybe that will be the sixth book, with Ivan’s being the final one. Keeping my fingers crossed…
Anyway, we finally learn about how Ivan met Niamh, and why he always remembered her. And it’s because she is a caring person that helped him in a time of need. Please read the book to find out the real circumstances… and of course her father and her brother are the reason that they meet at all.
I need the next books ASAP! This is a hugely entertaining story and I want to know that Ivan gets a HEA.
Recommended…
I’m confused again. Why would you title a book that only had A Monster is Coming on almost the very last page? This book wasn’t about that. But anyway, I can’t wait for the next books. This has got to be about Victor, and then one or two more.
The sixth area, in a 5 years later epilogue, is still without a Brigadier. The Beast and the Butcher are still in the running, so maybe that will be the sixth book, with Ivan’s being the final one. Keeping my fingers crossed…
Anyway, we finally learn about how Ivan met Niamh, and why he always remembered her. And it’s because she is a caring person that helped him in a time of need. Please read the book to find out the real circumstances… and of course her father and her brother are the reason that they meet at all.
I need the next books ASAP! This is a hugely entertaining story and I want to know that Ivan gets a HEA.
Recommended…
August 4, 2024
I'm loving these series, I'm obsessed, I'm not even joking.
I liked this one, it's my least favorite so far but I still liked it.
Niamh had been through a lot and finally founs the courage to run away. She meets Peter alomg the way the way and she later discovers (in the middle of the book) that he lied and being with her was an order. She feels like he doesn't really want her when she loves him. He does like her, he just has a bad way of showing it. I loved her, she didn't back down for anyone and she went after what she wanted. She was also strong despite being a little broken. Her father and mother didn't ruin her entirely, she was still there and she had fire.
I liked Peter but he seemed so unemotional sometimes, it was a bit frustating
I liked them together and how they both fought for the other.
Can't wait for more in these series
I liked this one, it's my least favorite so far but I still liked it.
Niamh had been through a lot and finally founs the courage to run away. She meets Peter alomg the way the way and she later discovers (in the middle of the book) that he lied and being with her was an order. She feels like he doesn't really want her when she loves him. He does like her, he just has a bad way of showing it. I loved her, she didn't back down for anyone and she went after what she wanted. She was also strong despite being a little broken. Her father and mother didn't ruin her entirely, she was still there and she had fire.
I liked Peter but he seemed so unemotional sometimes, it was a bit frustating
I liked them together and how they both fought for the other.
Can't wait for more in these series
August 25, 2024
This book has to be my favorite out of this series!!! I absolutely loved the storyline it was original, raw, gritty and heartbreaking. The characters were complex and had a beautifully written chemistry that was heartbreaking and heartwarming. The Volkov Bratva series is exciting, suspenseful, filled with drama and scorching hot spice. This book did not disappoint. This book is a dark mafia romance that touches on dark themes and topics. Make sure to read the CW before diving in!!! I devoured this book it was so good. A Monster Is Coming can be read as a standalone but I totally recommend reading them all. I love Ivan Volkov and his meddling ways with his brigadiers and the women he chooses for them!!!.
I received a free copy of this book via Evernight and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Evernight and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 28, 2024
Trying to make a life for herself until he finds her
A Monster Is Coming is the fourth book in the Volkov Bratva series and is the story of Niamh and Peter. I will strongly suggest that this series be read in order, as the stories and characters cross-over and play on each other. The book description pretty well lays out this story but does not hint at the twists which are involved. If I had been Niamh I would have run as far away from Peter as I could, and never look back, after I found out just who he is and what he was tasked to do. I cannot say I liked Peter, as I actually pretty much detested him, but I did love Niamh and the decisions she faces along the way which will impact her future and that of those around her.
Once again Sam Crescent builds further into the Volkov Bratva world and the family at the center.
A Monster Is Coming is the fourth book in the Volkov Bratva series and is the story of Niamh and Peter. I will strongly suggest that this series be read in order, as the stories and characters cross-over and play on each other. The book description pretty well lays out this story but does not hint at the twists which are involved. If I had been Niamh I would have run as far away from Peter as I could, and never look back, after I found out just who he is and what he was tasked to do. I cannot say I liked Peter, as I actually pretty much detested him, but I did love Niamh and the decisions she faces along the way which will impact her future and that of those around her.
Once again Sam Crescent builds further into the Volkov Bratva world and the family at the center.
October 1, 2024
In A Monster is Coming (The Volkov Bratva Series, Book 4) by Sam Crescent, Peter is tasked with finding and claiming Niamh before her abusive father, Finn Byrne, gets to her.
Niamh has endured a life of torment under Finn's cruel hand, and her attempt to escape is only a temporary reprieve. Peter, like the other Brigadiers, isn’t familiar with love, but when he befriends Niamh, he begins to soften. While his mission is clear, his growing feelings for Niamh complicate things, and she starts to awaken a side of him he never knew existed.
Ivan’s backstory and his connection to Niamh add layers of intrigue and emotion, providing insight into his motivations and why he takes such a personal interest in matchmaking. The emotional depth and development of both Peter and Niamh, along with the broader Bratva world, make this story a compelling and heartfelt addition to the series.
Niamh has endured a life of torment under Finn's cruel hand, and her attempt to escape is only a temporary reprieve. Peter, like the other Brigadiers, isn’t familiar with love, but when he befriends Niamh, he begins to soften. While his mission is clear, his growing feelings for Niamh complicate things, and she starts to awaken a side of him he never knew existed.
Ivan’s backstory and his connection to Niamh add layers of intrigue and emotion, providing insight into his motivations and why he takes such a personal interest in matchmaking. The emotional depth and development of both Peter and Niamh, along with the broader Bratva world, make this story a compelling and heartfelt addition to the series.
Read
April 14, 2025Peter and Niamh. What can I say. I couldnt put this book down. I would go back and reread not because I was confused but I wanted that experience again. Just kept saying one more chapter but I wanted to see what was going to happen next. Finn is her father and hes not married to her mother. He abuses her and doesnt really want her. The reason he does what he does is not right its down right sorrowful. When she runs away Ivan sends Peter to her to make her fall in love with him and have a baby with her. When she finds out she loves him but doesnt like him. After her grandmother takes care of her Niamh has a choice to make. Ivan really knows how to matchmake. Really really couldnt quit reading. Sam Crescent really is one of my favorite authors and can weave a good story.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 2, 2024
Page-Turning Read!
Peter had a job to do! He didn’t believe in love, he’d never been loved or felt love but what he did have was commitment and respect for his boss and when he was commanded to do something, he did it and did it well.
Niamh had been beaten, abused and unloved all her life now it was her turn to find love but what she had not counted on was the heart-breaking betrayal from Peter.
Now there are monsters and there are really evil monsters and this storyline has it all! Full of action, evil, brutality, twists and shocks that could cause some trigger warnings but over all a really intense read you won’t want to put down leading to a well deserved and wonderful HEA.
I received a free copy of this book via Evernight and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Peter had a job to do! He didn’t believe in love, he’d never been loved or felt love but what he did have was commitment and respect for his boss and when he was commanded to do something, he did it and did it well.
Niamh had been beaten, abused and unloved all her life now it was her turn to find love but what she had not counted on was the heart-breaking betrayal from Peter.
Now there are monsters and there are really evil monsters and this storyline has it all! Full of action, evil, brutality, twists and shocks that could cause some trigger warnings but over all a really intense read you won’t want to put down leading to a well deserved and wonderful HEA.
I received a free copy of this book via Evernight and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 21, 2024
The book starts off scary and then goes back to how everything began. Niamh is the daughter of Finn Byrne, the head of the Irish Mafia. Finding out about her past, was a tear jerker. She does a runner and ends up working as a waitress, where she meets Peter, who works as a trainer at the gym she belongs to. Things happen and they get together. However, Peter was sent there by his Bratva boss, Ivan Volkov. Finding out about his past had me bawling. Finding out why Ivan wants Niamh had me crying as well. I usually don’t start in the middle of a series, but this book was worth it. I hate spoilers and now I have to go back and read the others. I think I did read one of them, not sure. The book grabbed on to me and had me on an emotional roller coaster and when the book ended I was like… wait? It is over. Dang it. lol. Please be aware that since we are dealing with mafioso there are a lot of death, torture, etc., in this book. Ivan is defo an enigma. He is both nurturing and will scare ya socks off. lol. I can’t wait to see what happens next.
I received a free copy of this book via Evernight and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Evernight and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 18, 2024
I love this series: it’s full of danger, suspense, broken characters, and love!! Sam Crescent is one of my favorite authors because the men and women are strong, resilient, intelligent and fiercely loyal. Peter and Niamh had abusive parents which could have crushed them, but their strength of will overcame their fears.
The path to a loving relationship was difficult for Peter and Niamh: they had to fight themselves to find their hearts and happiness. Lies, her father, and heartbreak warred against their future. Niamh had little confidence in herself but, Peter was supportive even though he didn’t know what love meant. A poignant story and the epilogue was epic!.
I received a free copy of this book via Evernight and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The path to a loving relationship was difficult for Peter and Niamh: they had to fight themselves to find their hearts and happiness. Lies, her father, and heartbreak warred against their future. Niamh had little confidence in herself but, Peter was supportive even though he didn’t know what love meant. A poignant story and the epilogue was epic!.
I received a free copy of this book via Evernight and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 23, 2024
Sometimes our pain leads up to our family. And in the family, you find the family to piece you back together. Now understand you will never be like you were before the "break" you will be better and your pieces will be held together with the strongest adhesive between people...LOVE!!!
Naimh and Peter both knew love wasn't suppose to hurt or be damaging and that in itself is enough of a reason to stay together. I think the lesson Ivan tries to teach each couple is that family is not of blood only but where your true loyalties lie. And love is a choice..a conscience daily questioned choice.
I love Sam and will read ANYTHING she writes.
I received a free copy of this book via Evernight and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Naimh and Peter both knew love wasn't suppose to hurt or be damaging and that in itself is enough of a reason to stay together. I think the lesson Ivan tries to teach each couple is that family is not of blood only but where your true loyalties lie. And love is a choice..a conscience daily questioned choice.
I love Sam and will read ANYTHING she writes.
I received a free copy of this book via Evernight and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 31, 2024
Niamh is the illegitimate daughter of irish mob boss Finn, unwanted and unloved, when the chance to run and start over appears she takes it. Only her path to freedom leads her to Peter. Peter is a brigadier for Ivan who set him the task of getting Niamh to fall for him and get an heir to take over the empire her Grandmother left to her. But what happens when Niamh learns of Peters task? Was anything real between them? My gosh this one hits you in the feels like no other, and hearing more on Ivans past is heartbreaking!! Well written steamy desires, action, high emotions, drama and more! A great addition to the series!
August 21, 2024
Another wonderful story that keeps you hooked from the start. We took words into the lives of Niamh and Peter. Niamh is the illegitimate daughter of an Irish Mafia boss named Finn. This was also an emotional story, her whole life lived with the stigma of being unwanted and unloved and no one loved her. She thinks Peter may be the one, but things turn out differently. Will she ever find someone who will protect her and love her and do whatever it takes to make her feel loved? There's drama, sadness, action, danger, romance and a lot of steam.
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I received an Advance Reader sample of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review
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I received an Advance Reader sample of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review
August 23, 2024
Wow, what a ride! I have read all of the other novels in this series and really enjoyed them. This novel did not disappoint. From the first chapter this novel captured my attention and held on the entire novel. Both of the main characters Peter and Niamh have both been thru so much. It broke my heart with everything Niamh went thru. I loved how Peter wanted to take care and protect Niamh from her horrible father and past. I loved watching them fall in love and lower their defenses for each other. Once I started reading I had a hard time putting this novel down, I needed to know what was coming next. I can't wait to see what this author has coming next.
August 23, 2024
A Monster is Coming (Book 4 of Volkov Bratva) by Sam Crescent is mafia romance novel. This book continues the stories involving the Volko Bratva. The plot followed along in a typical mafia pattern but flowed well. The characters were well fleshed out and we continued to get a glimpse into their world.
Niamh is hiding from her abusive father the head of the Irish Mob. This leads her to Peter and her entry into the Volko Bratva. Of course the beginning of their relationship is built on a tower of lies that you know will soon. Will they survive it?
I enjoyed this addition to the series and look forward to the next.
Niamh is hiding from her abusive father the head of the Irish Mob. This leads her to Peter and her entry into the Volko Bratva. Of course the beginning of their relationship is built on a tower of lies that you know will soon. Will they survive it?
I enjoyed this addition to the series and look forward to the next.
September 1, 2024
This was Peter and Niamh‘s story. All she wanted was to be free, and not be scared anymore. She was the unwanted daughter of Finn Byrne. Many feared him and women loved him. Her mother didn’t want her, but her birth kept Finn coming around. After being used as a punching bag for most of her life, she decided to run. The first mistake was staying in a small town. The second mistake was falling in love with a guy she hardly knew. Peter lied. He manipulated her. Ivan Volkov gave him a job to do, and that was to make her fall in love with him. Soon she’ll have a choice to make. What will she decide. It was an emotional roller coaster for me. And voluntarily leaving this review.
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