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Marital Privileges #2
Deceitful Vows
Zoya
I never imagined a dreaded gynaecology appointment would result in a fire-sparking connection hotter than the sun.
Even in an office designed to torture women, the tension between the sinfully delicious stranger and me is so blistering that we spend the night together, twisted beneath silky sheets.
Although disappointed to wake alone the following morning, I assume aching muscles will be the worst side effect of our night of sin.
If only anything in my life was that simple.
I learn shortly after our night of debauchery that Andrik isn’t just seductively charming and easy on the eye. He is also married.
During an exchange as heated as the night before, he assures me that I have nothing to feel guilty about, that his marriage is a contractual agreement designed to take down a hierarchy that’s been ruling his life since prior to his conception.
His defense is so credible that I almost believe him.
But with one lie unearthing a dozen more, it isn’t solely Andrik’s affair being scrutinized.
A dynasty centuries in the making is about to topple, and I’m unknowingly wielding the axe responsible for its demise.
Andrik
One glance seared my soul, but one brush of a pair of pouty lips seals my fate.
Zoya Galdean is going to ruin me.
No ifs.
No buts.
She will ruin me. But I refuse to withdraw from a battle more dangerous than one decades in the making.
Betrothed or not, Zoya wants me, so she will have me.
I just can’t publicly announce that until I fix the monumental mistake I initiated mere hours before bedding a woman whose inclusion in the farce ensures it isn’t solely my head on the chopping block.
*
Please note: although the blurb implies cheating, there are no *relations* between anyone but the two main characters.
I never imagined a dreaded gynaecology appointment would result in a fire-sparking connection hotter than the sun.
Even in an office designed to torture women, the tension between the sinfully delicious stranger and me is so blistering that we spend the night together, twisted beneath silky sheets.
Although disappointed to wake alone the following morning, I assume aching muscles will be the worst side effect of our night of sin.
If only anything in my life was that simple.
I learn shortly after our night of debauchery that Andrik isn’t just seductively charming and easy on the eye. He is also married.
During an exchange as heated as the night before, he assures me that I have nothing to feel guilty about, that his marriage is a contractual agreement designed to take down a hierarchy that’s been ruling his life since prior to his conception.
His defense is so credible that I almost believe him.
But with one lie unearthing a dozen more, it isn’t solely Andrik’s affair being scrutinized.
A dynasty centuries in the making is about to topple, and I’m unknowingly wielding the axe responsible for its demise.
Andrik
One glance seared my soul, but one brush of a pair of pouty lips seals my fate.
Zoya Galdean is going to ruin me.
No ifs.
No buts.
She will ruin me. But I refuse to withdraw from a battle more dangerous than one decades in the making.
Betrothed or not, Zoya wants me, so she will have me.
I just can’t publicly announce that until I fix the monumental mistake I initiated mere hours before bedding a woman whose inclusion in the farce ensures it isn’t solely my head on the chopping block.
*
Please note: although the blurb implies cheating, there are no *relations* between anyone but the two main characters.
594 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 15, 2024
745 people are currently reading
721 people want to read
About the author
Shandi Boyes
97 books2,203 followersShandi Boyes is a USA Today Bestselling Author who was an avid reader for many years before she discovered the love of writing in February 2016. Her first penned novel 'Perception of Life’ is a new adult rockstar romance that will have you sitting on the edge of your seat until the very last word.
In September 2016, her focus shifted to hot alpha men in steamy contemporary reads that sizzle off the pages. Shandi’s novel ‘Enigma of Life’ is an award-winning story on an FBI agent and the subject she was assigned to investigate. Her men are swoon-worthy, devoted, and alpha; and her heroines are strong-willed, determined, and loveable. You should start her stories first thing in the morning, or you may not sleep.
You will laugh and you will cry, but Shandi's characters will stay with you for a lifetime!
Join my newsletter: subscribepage.com/authorshandi
SERIES ORDER:
Perception of Life (Noah and Emily #1)
Reality of Life (conclusion of Noah's story #2)
Fight of Life (Jacob's story - standalone #3)
Player of Life (Nick & Jenny - standalone #4)
Beats of Life (Slater's story - standalone #5)
Enigma:
Enigma of Life (Isaac #1) - ** FREE **
Unraveling an Enigma (Isaac #2)
Enigma: The Mystery Unmasked (Isaac #3)
Enigma: The Final Chapter (conclusion of Isaac's story #4)
Beneath the Secrets (Hugo #1)
Beneath the Sheets (Hugo #2)
Spy Thy Neighbor (Hunter's Story)
The Opposite Effect
I Married a Mob Boss
Second Shot
Bound:
Chains
Links
Bound
Restrained
Russian Mob Chronicles:
Nikolai: A Mafia Prince Romance
Nikolai: Taking Back What's Mine
Nikolai: What's Left of Me
You will laugh and you will cry, but my characters will stay with you forever!
I love writing and reading. They are both my passion. My genre is generally set to new adult and contemporary, with a few twists thrown in.
Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/Author-Shand...
Amazon Author Page:
http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B01D8C13WU
Enjoy reading!
In September 2016, her focus shifted to hot alpha men in steamy contemporary reads that sizzle off the pages. Shandi’s novel ‘Enigma of Life’ is an award-winning story on an FBI agent and the subject she was assigned to investigate. Her men are swoon-worthy, devoted, and alpha; and her heroines are strong-willed, determined, and loveable. You should start her stories first thing in the morning, or you may not sleep.
You will laugh and you will cry, but Shandi's characters will stay with you for a lifetime!
Join my newsletter: subscribepage.com/authorshandi
SERIES ORDER:
Perception of Life (Noah and Emily #1)
Reality of Life (conclusion of Noah's story #2)
Fight of Life (Jacob's story - standalone #3)
Player of Life (Nick & Jenny - standalone #4)
Beats of Life (Slater's story - standalone #5)
Enigma:
Enigma of Life (Isaac #1) - ** FREE **
Unraveling an Enigma (Isaac #2)
Enigma: The Mystery Unmasked (Isaac #3)
Enigma: The Final Chapter (conclusion of Isaac's story #4)
Beneath the Secrets (Hugo #1)
Beneath the Sheets (Hugo #2)
Spy Thy Neighbor (Hunter's Story)
The Opposite Effect
I Married a Mob Boss
Second Shot
Bound:
Chains
Links
Bound
Restrained
Russian Mob Chronicles:
Nikolai: A Mafia Prince Romance
Nikolai: Taking Back What's Mine
Nikolai: What's Left of Me
You will laugh and you will cry, but my characters will stay with you forever!
I love writing and reading. They are both my passion. My genre is generally set to new adult and contemporary, with a few twists thrown in.
Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/Author-Shand...
Amazon Author Page:
http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B01D8C13WU
Enjoy reading!
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews
November 18, 2024
I WAS VERY DISAPPOINTED! TOO LONG OF A BOOK. UNBELIVABLE STORY. BORING SEX SCENES. I HAVED LOVED ALL HER BOOKS BUT THIS ONE.
November 24, 2024
I WAS NOT PREPARED FOR THIS BOOK!!
Zoya and Andrik were absolute fire from the very start!
I had been looking forward to reading Zoya’s story from meeting her in Doctored Vows. Hearing her story was heartbreaking, she is a true fighter and I loved her strength and determination.
Andrik was HOT as hell and I loved his obsession with Zoya from the very first time he met her.
Their relationship is completely forbidden, given how he is already engaged to be married (NO cheating) but that just makes it all the more hotter! They are the definition of wanting something you can’t have makes you crave it all
The more.
That plot twist!!…..WTF???!!! That had my head SPINNING!!!
In typical Shandi fashion she ripped apart everything we thought we knew before putting us all back together again…eventually 😂
Zoya and Andrik were absolute fire from the very start!
I had been looking forward to reading Zoya’s story from meeting her in Doctored Vows. Hearing her story was heartbreaking, she is a true fighter and I loved her strength and determination.
Andrik was HOT as hell and I loved his obsession with Zoya from the very first time he met her.
Their relationship is completely forbidden, given how he is already engaged to be married (NO cheating) but that just makes it all the more hotter! They are the definition of wanting something you can’t have makes you crave it all
The more.
That plot twist!!…..WTF???!!! That had my head SPINNING!!!
In typical Shandi fashion she ripped apart everything we thought we knew before putting us all back together again…eventually 😂
May 5, 2025
3.25 stars - story
4.5 stars - audiobook
The plot of this and Doctored Vows (Book I) are on the same timeline as each other. DV follows Nakita, and this one follows her best friend Zoya.
This was about a woman who meets a handsome stranger by chance in a fertility doctor's office. She is estranged from her mother/sister and is closer to Nakita's family. Andrik has an agenda when heading to that same doctor's office, but he can't deny that his direction has detoured after his meet-cute with the beautiful Zoya. And no matter how hard he might try to stick to his path, she really has a pull on him. I really like these characters and I liked them together.
A LOT is going on in this book and in the series backstory, and it's 200 pages longer than DV. You will see some overlapping of scenes from DV and I actually enjoyed seeing Zoya's POV on what happened in the first book. But the book felt long and I won't lie - I found myself confused at times. There was a lot going on in the plot that wasn't wrapped around the relationship and people switching names... and I still don't know if I actually understood parts. And all these characters that are offscreen... it was a lot. But then I also found parts predictable. The wrap-up of how the way the two books lined up was executed well. I will be curious to see how book 3 is tied in, because it looks like we have another lovely lady's timeline to follow.
I feel mixed about the story but I am also SO invested in where this story is going and what happens next in this world.
Please note: There are some very heavy themes in this, including children (illness/loss) and infertility/endometriosis, among more. Please check triggers before getting into this one.
ALC—This is probably a me thing, but I struggle when a main character has a "western" accent for the narration/POV, but when they speak in the same character, it doesn't match. This is especially true for me when they are also already playing other male characters like Maksim and Mikhail with similar names. Who are both in the story a lot. Though, the voices were very different for those two. With that said, I had to go back and read the paperback of it to try and figure out parts partially because of this and as mentioned above, the overall plot.
The voice actors did a really good job with their roles. The main voices they used for their characters fit the roles great and could understand them without any issue.
Only little thing - I was not a huge fan of Maksim's voice in this one. Just didn't fit with how I picture Maksim after listening to his audiobook.
4.5 stars - audiobook
The plot of this and Doctored Vows (Book I) are on the same timeline as each other. DV follows Nakita, and this one follows her best friend Zoya.
This was about a woman who meets a handsome stranger by chance in a fertility doctor's office. She is estranged from her mother/sister and is closer to Nakita's family. Andrik has an agenda when heading to that same doctor's office, but he can't deny that his direction has detoured after his meet-cute with the beautiful Zoya. And no matter how hard he might try to stick to his path, she really has a pull on him. I really like these characters and I liked them together.
A LOT is going on in this book and in the series backstory, and it's 200 pages longer than DV. You will see some overlapping of scenes from DV and I actually enjoyed seeing Zoya's POV on what happened in the first book. But the book felt long and I won't lie - I found myself confused at times. There was a lot going on in the plot that wasn't wrapped around the relationship and people switching names... and I still don't know if I actually understood parts. And all these characters that are offscreen... it was a lot. But then I also found parts predictable. The wrap-up of how the way the two books lined up was executed well. I will be curious to see how book 3 is tied in, because it looks like we have another lovely lady's timeline to follow.
I feel mixed about the story but I am also SO invested in where this story is going and what happens next in this world.
Please note: There are some very heavy themes in this, including children (illness/loss) and infertility/endometriosis, among more. Please check triggers before getting into this one.
ALC—This is probably a me thing, but I struggle when a main character has a "western" accent for the narration/POV, but when they speak in the same character, it doesn't match. This is especially true for me when they are also already playing other male characters like Maksim and Mikhail with similar names. Who are both in the story a lot. Though, the voices were very different for those two. With that said, I had to go back and read the paperback of it to try and figure out parts partially because of this and as mentioned above, the overall plot.
The voice actors did a really good job with their roles. The main voices they used for their characters fit the roles great and could understand them without any issue.
Only little thing - I was not a huge fan of Maksim's voice in this one. Just didn't fit with how I picture Maksim after listening to his audiobook.
May 5, 2025
4⭐️/2🌶️ - 🎧
3.5⭐️ - 📕
June and Will did an excellent job with the audiobook narration! Loved the accents done.
I loved the story, the writing style, and the plot twist was surprising!
However, I think some scenes were dragged on and could have wrapped up quickly.
But overall, it was a nice break to listen to the amazing performance the narrators gave.
3.5⭐️ - 📕
June and Will did an excellent job with the audiobook narration! Loved the accents done.
I loved the story, the writing style, and the plot twist was surprising!
However, I think some scenes were dragged on and could have wrapped up quickly.
But overall, it was a nice break to listen to the amazing performance the narrators gave.
April 2, 2025
There’s a lot to unpack and even towards the end I was still lost on some things. Zoya and Andrik had attraction but I didn’t fully get their pull. It was a good read and I kept reading to the end but just too many twists. It is very steamy and angsty though!
January 14, 2025
Let see...
1. Did I like the resolution? Find a bigger fish in the pond to solve the problem for you. That is a new strategy. At least is not the throw money at the problem.
2. Had a good plot twist? The book was too obscure honestly. Too tangled up.
3. Were the characters’ personalities relevant? Zoya is not the strong female the author is trying to portray. She comes out as too stupid to think when Andrik is around. It is annoying.
4. Did it have Intelligent dialogue? Arguably.
5. Was the story coherent and consistent? I don't think so. There are many things happening and many secrets. There were parts where I had to read a page twice to understand what was happening. I understand the "show don't tell", but there was no tell and no show in this case. The characters just will randomly understand what was happening and I was just here like "ok, out of my 20 theories, which one is it?" The plot twists were based on hiding things from the reader while every character knew. Is not that authentic of a plot twist, more of a hold-back info.
6. Would I reread it? Noup. I don't think the quotes are worth it.
7. Did you skip over at some point? Mej and no.
8. Did you consider DNF? Yes.
9. If it is a whole serie would you consider reading it? I started with the second but I feel like if I read the first it will be a copy of personalities, but with different names and circumstances.
10. How was technical execution? The reading was not smooth. It had me thinking that this book was translated into English. Some parts just did not make sense at all.
11. Do all loose ends are tied up seamlessly? Not exactly to be honest. Is the question of what happens with other characters and stuff.
12. How would you feel if you forgot the story? I can live without it.
Jan 14, 2024
3/5 it is. Another Instragram read...
1. Did I like the resolution? Find a bigger fish in the pond to solve the problem for you. That is a new strategy. At least is not the throw money at the problem.
2. Had a good plot twist? The book was too obscure honestly. Too tangled up.
3. Were the characters’ personalities relevant? Zoya is not the strong female the author is trying to portray. She comes out as too stupid to think when Andrik is around. It is annoying.
4. Did it have Intelligent dialogue? Arguably.
5. Was the story coherent and consistent? I don't think so. There are many things happening and many secrets. There were parts where I had to read a page twice to understand what was happening. I understand the "show don't tell", but there was no tell and no show in this case. The characters just will randomly understand what was happening and I was just here like "ok, out of my 20 theories, which one is it?" The plot twists were based on hiding things from the reader while every character knew. Is not that authentic of a plot twist, more of a hold-back info.
6. Would I reread it? Noup. I don't think the quotes are worth it.
7. Did you skip over at some point? Mej and no.
8. Did you consider DNF? Yes.
9. If it is a whole serie would you consider reading it? I started with the second but I feel like if I read the first it will be a copy of personalities, but with different names and circumstances.
10. How was technical execution? The reading was not smooth. It had me thinking that this book was translated into English. Some parts just did not make sense at all.
11. Do all loose ends are tied up seamlessly? Not exactly to be honest. Is the question of what happens with other characters and stuff.
12. How would you feel if you forgot the story? I can live without it.
Jan 14, 2024
3/5 it is. Another Instragram read...
October 14, 2024
The struggles after reading a Shandi Boyes book is not knowing how to function once you have finished. The story may be finished but in your mind it’s ongoing Andrik and Zoya story is going to blow your minds. It’s emotional, intriguing, sexy AF I couldn’t stop reading and didn’t want it to stop.
I related emotionally to part of Zoya story Shandi did an amazing job describing the emotional, painful toll living with this awful illness can be.
Andrik and Zoya will soon become one of your favourite couple, Andrik is dominant, successful, Sexy AF, Zoya is Strong, Witty, loveable, plus so much more
I related emotionally to part of Zoya story Shandi did an amazing job describing the emotional, painful toll living with this awful illness can be.
Andrik and Zoya will soon become one of your favourite couple, Andrik is dominant, successful, Sexy AF, Zoya is Strong, Witty, loveable, plus so much more
May 2, 2025
Dark, Dangerous, and Deliciously Addictive
Deceitful Vows by Shandi Boyes is a slow-burn romantic suspense that ignites from the very first page and spirals into a tangled web of secrets, power, and forbidden love. If you like your romance with high stakes and hotter-than-sin chemistry, this one’s a must-listen.
💔 What’s the Story?
What starts as an unexpected spark at a routine doctor’s appointment quickly unravels into something much more dangerous. Zoya finds herself entangled with a man who seems too good to be true—and soon discovers he’s also too complicated to be simple. Andrik isn’t just magnetic; he’s powerful, secretive, and married. But nothing in their story is black-and-white, and as lies unravel, Zoya realizes she may be the key to dismantling a centuries-old dynasty.
🔥 What Worked:
✔ Explosive Chemistry – The connection between Zoya and Andrik practically scorches through your headphones.
✔ Twists and Intrigue – The suspense and unraveling secrets keep you fully engaged until the very end.
✔ Phenomenal Narration – June is a powerhouse. Her versatile voice captured every emotion, accent, and nuance in this story. Will was new to me, but he made a strong impression, especially in the intense emotional scenes. Together, they nailed a large and varied cast with consistency and energy that lifted the story even higher.
⏳ A Small Critique:
The pacing in the middle lingers a bit as the layers of deception deepen, but the tension and revelations in the final act make the build-up worthwhile.
💘 Tropes You’ll Love:
✔ Forbidden Romance
✔ One-Night Stand to More
✔ Fake/Contractual Marriage
✔ Possessive Hero
✔ Slow Burn with a Payoff
✔ No Actual Cheating (despite appearances)
📚 Series Note:
This is the second book in a series. You can dive in without reading Doctored Vows, but I’m glad I started there—it gave added context and depth to the characters and their world.
🎧 Final Thoughts:
Deceitful Vows is intense, provocative, and wholly captivating. Shandi Boyes masterfully blends sizzling tension with emotional depth and dramatic intrigue. Paired with exceptional narration by June and Will, this audiobook is a powerful experience from start to finish.
🙏 Many thanks to Blue Nose Audio and Shandi for the opportunity to listen to this gripping, high-voltage romance!
Deceitful Vows by Shandi Boyes is a slow-burn romantic suspense that ignites from the very first page and spirals into a tangled web of secrets, power, and forbidden love. If you like your romance with high stakes and hotter-than-sin chemistry, this one’s a must-listen.
💔 What’s the Story?
What starts as an unexpected spark at a routine doctor’s appointment quickly unravels into something much more dangerous. Zoya finds herself entangled with a man who seems too good to be true—and soon discovers he’s also too complicated to be simple. Andrik isn’t just magnetic; he’s powerful, secretive, and married. But nothing in their story is black-and-white, and as lies unravel, Zoya realizes she may be the key to dismantling a centuries-old dynasty.
🔥 What Worked:
✔ Explosive Chemistry – The connection between Zoya and Andrik practically scorches through your headphones.
✔ Twists and Intrigue – The suspense and unraveling secrets keep you fully engaged until the very end.
✔ Phenomenal Narration – June is a powerhouse. Her versatile voice captured every emotion, accent, and nuance in this story. Will was new to me, but he made a strong impression, especially in the intense emotional scenes. Together, they nailed a large and varied cast with consistency and energy that lifted the story even higher.
⏳ A Small Critique:
The pacing in the middle lingers a bit as the layers of deception deepen, but the tension and revelations in the final act make the build-up worthwhile.
💘 Tropes You’ll Love:
✔ Forbidden Romance
✔ One-Night Stand to More
✔ Fake/Contractual Marriage
✔ Possessive Hero
✔ Slow Burn with a Payoff
✔ No Actual Cheating (despite appearances)
📚 Series Note:
This is the second book in a series. You can dive in without reading Doctored Vows, but I’m glad I started there—it gave added context and depth to the characters and their world.
🎧 Final Thoughts:
Deceitful Vows is intense, provocative, and wholly captivating. Shandi Boyes masterfully blends sizzling tension with emotional depth and dramatic intrigue. Paired with exceptional narration by June and Will, this audiobook is a powerful experience from start to finish.
🙏 Many thanks to Blue Nose Audio and Shandi for the opportunity to listen to this gripping, high-voltage romance!
May 3, 2025
In this compelling narrative, Andrik's journey from a carefree child to a formidable leader unfolds against the backdrop of personal loss and political intrigue. His fifth birthday marks the beginning of a life overshadowed by tragedy, as his mother is forcibly taken from him, a pivotal event that fuels his desire for vengeance. Groomed to be the alpha leader of the federation, Andrik harbours a secret ambition to dismantle the very system that moulded him, driven by the need to uncover the truth behind his mother’s disappearance. Enter Zoya, a woman equally shaped by societal rejection due to her medical condition. Exiled as a teenager because of her endometriosis, she embodies resilience and defies the limitations placed upon her by a society obsessed with fertility. When fate brings Andrik and Zoya together in an unexpected encounter at her OB/GYN, their chemistry is undeniable. As their paths intertwine, they navigate a landscape rife with deception and power struggles, each seeking redemption and justice. The story is a thrilling exploration of resilience, revenge, and the transformative power of love amidst chaos, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as they unravel the layers of deceit and ambition.
June DeBorahae and Will Peters delivered extraordinary performances in their narration of this story. Their ability to handle a diverse range of characters and accents with such finesse speaks volumes about their talent and dedication. June's versatile voice and Will's impressive debut as a narrator seem to have brought the story to life, engaging listeners with emotional depth and authenticity. The dynamic duo's connection to the material ensured that each character was distinct and memorable, making for a captivating listening experience. Their efforts in mastering various accents, from American to Russian to British, added an extra layer of richness to the story, showcasing their skill and commitment to delivering top-notch narration.
June DeBorahae and Will Peters delivered extraordinary performances in their narration of this story. Their ability to handle a diverse range of characters and accents with such finesse speaks volumes about their talent and dedication. June's versatile voice and Will's impressive debut as a narrator seem to have brought the story to life, engaging listeners with emotional depth and authenticity. The dynamic duo's connection to the material ensured that each character was distinct and memorable, making for a captivating listening experience. Their efforts in mastering various accents, from American to Russian to British, added an extra layer of richness to the story, showcasing their skill and commitment to delivering top-notch narration.
June 11, 2025
𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘀:⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
𝗦𝗽𝗶𝗰𝗲:🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
𝗔𝗴𝗲 𝗚𝗮𝗽: 27 MFC | 35 MMC
𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆 𝗙𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗮𝘁: Standalone
𝗘𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝘆𝗽𝗲: HAE
𝗡𝗮𝗿𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗦𝘁𝘆𝗹𝗲: Dual POV
𝘾𝙃𝙀𝘾𝙆 𝙊𝙐𝙏 𝙏𝙃𝙀 𝙁𝙐𝙇𝙇 𝙍𝙀𝙑𝙄𝙀𝙒 👉🏻 www.imliteraryanxious.com
"𝙊𝙣𝙚 𝙜𝙡𝙖𝙣���𝙚 𝙨𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙚𝙙 𝙢𝙮 𝙨𝙤𝙪𝙡, 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙗𝙧𝙪𝙨𝙝 𝙤𝙛 𝙖 𝙥𝙖𝙞𝙧 𝙤𝙛 𝙥𝙤𝙪𝙩𝙮 𝙡𝙞𝙥𝙨 𝙨𝙚𝙖𝙡𝙨 𝙢𝙮 𝙛𝙖𝙩𝙚. 𝙕𝙤𝙮𝙖 𝙂𝙖𝙡𝙙𝙚𝙖𝙣 𝙞𝙨 𝙜𝙤𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙤 𝙧𝙪𝙞𝙣 𝙢𝙚."
💍Age Gap
🖤Billionaire Romance
💍Insta-Lust
🖤Family Drama (Seriously)
💍Touch Her and 💀 (Also, If You Ever Touched Her You 💀)
🖤Firecracker MFC
💍Lies and Deception
🖤Obsessed MMC
Holy f*cking shit on a cracker—this was One. Wild. Ride.
This book? Pure, high-octane, binge-reading energy.
This is the second book I’ve read by Shandi (yes, I’m reading the series out of order, no regrets), and while Vengeful Vows also pulled me in, this one? ✨Unputdownable.✨ I haven’t stayed up until 2am for a book in over a decade, and yet… here we are.
The spice? 🔥🔥🔥
But honestly, what hooked me was the plot. Every chapter ended with me whispering, “just one more” until it was practically morning. The pacing, tension, and reveals were addictive. I couldn’t stop flipping pages, desperate to see all the tangled threads unravel.
Also, yes—I was feral for Zoya to find out the truth about Andrik’s “wife.” Drama? Inject it into my veins.
If you’re into billionaire/mafia-adjacent romance with high heat and high stakes, this one delivers:
• An unhinged MMC ✅
• Fire-level spice ✅
• Cinnamon roll-ish bestie ✅
• Plot twists for days ✅
• A main character who slaps first and sorts it out later ✅✅
It’s on the longer side (~600 pages), and while some readers think it could’ve been shorter, I never felt like it dragged. It earned every page.
Twisty, spicy, dramatic—in short: highly recommend.
AN ✨EXTENDED VERSION✨ OF THIS REVIEW AND OTHERS can also be found on the 📝I’m Literary Anxious Blog📝 or my 📖📚Bookstagram📚📖
𝗦𝗽𝗶𝗰𝗲:🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
𝗔𝗴𝗲 𝗚𝗮𝗽: 27 MFC | 35 MMC
𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆 𝗙𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗮𝘁: Standalone
𝗘𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝘆𝗽𝗲: HAE
𝗡𝗮𝗿𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗦𝘁𝘆𝗹𝗲: Dual POV
𝘾𝙃𝙀𝘾𝙆 𝙊𝙐𝙏 𝙏𝙃𝙀 𝙁𝙐𝙇𝙇 𝙍𝙀𝙑𝙄𝙀𝙒 👉🏻 www.imliteraryanxious.com
"𝙊𝙣𝙚 𝙜𝙡𝙖𝙣���𝙚 𝙨𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙚𝙙 𝙢𝙮 𝙨𝙤𝙪𝙡, 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙗𝙧𝙪𝙨𝙝 𝙤𝙛 𝙖 𝙥𝙖𝙞𝙧 𝙤𝙛 𝙥𝙤𝙪𝙩𝙮 𝙡𝙞𝙥𝙨 𝙨𝙚𝙖𝙡𝙨 𝙢𝙮 𝙛𝙖𝙩𝙚. 𝙕𝙤𝙮𝙖 𝙂𝙖𝙡𝙙𝙚𝙖𝙣 𝙞𝙨 𝙜𝙤𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙤 𝙧𝙪𝙞𝙣 𝙢𝙚."
💍Age Gap
🖤Billionaire Romance
💍Insta-Lust
🖤Family Drama (Seriously)
💍Touch Her and 💀 (Also, If You Ever Touched Her You 💀)
🖤Firecracker MFC
💍Lies and Deception
🖤Obsessed MMC
Holy f*cking shit on a cracker—this was One. Wild. Ride.
This book? Pure, high-octane, binge-reading energy.
This is the second book I’ve read by Shandi (yes, I’m reading the series out of order, no regrets), and while Vengeful Vows also pulled me in, this one? ✨Unputdownable.✨ I haven’t stayed up until 2am for a book in over a decade, and yet… here we are.
The spice? 🔥🔥🔥
But honestly, what hooked me was the plot. Every chapter ended with me whispering, “just one more” until it was practically morning. The pacing, tension, and reveals were addictive. I couldn’t stop flipping pages, desperate to see all the tangled threads unravel.
Also, yes—I was feral for Zoya to find out the truth about Andrik’s “wife.” Drama? Inject it into my veins.
If you’re into billionaire/mafia-adjacent romance with high heat and high stakes, this one delivers:
• An unhinged MMC ✅
• Fire-level spice ✅
• Cinnamon roll-ish bestie ✅
• Plot twists for days ✅
• A main character who slaps first and sorts it out later ✅✅
It’s on the longer side (~600 pages), and while some readers think it could’ve been shorter, I never felt like it dragged. It earned every page.
Twisty, spicy, dramatic—in short: highly recommend.
AN ✨EXTENDED VERSION✨ OF THIS REVIEW AND OTHERS can also be found on the 📝I’m Literary Anxious Blog📝 or my 📖📚Bookstagram📚📖
November 5, 2024
I don't know where to bloody start with this book!!! I got to bed at 2am!! 2am and it's now 7am ( school run) and I'm still gobsmacked by this book! I don't know what Shandi put in her books, but I could not put this book down!! Trying to make dinner and read at the same time is not advised people! Ok, about the book....... we have our fmc zoya, who is Nikkitas' best friend from doctored vows, and our Mmc Andrik Russian mafia boss. The banter when these 2 meet and all through the book was bloody brilliant! Our Zoya has no problems running her mouth off to a guy that would kill you for looking at him the wrong way!! And ladies, the mouth on this man when he gets going had my slipping of my couch! These 2 were like fireworks 🎆 on the 5th of November! I don't want to go into the story because I think it will be best read if you just jump straight in, however if infertility is a trigger for you I would avoid this read, it does feature throughout the story line. Now if you love your books to take you on a roller coaster then look no further, I laughed till almost peed , I cried i swooned I wanted to punch Andrik so many times , chuck my kindle across the room at times I felt like this was happening to me! I was so angry at times, so yeah, this book has it all!!! And just when you think there's light at the end of the tunnel BAM, something else happens! Just one more thing: before I chug some caffeine , I want, no, I NEED SHANDI, a book for Mikhail, my marshmallow man!( iykyk) God that man 🔥 🥵 Overall this book was amazing, a rollercoaster ride for sure! But glad they finally got there HEA ❤️.
I received a copy of this book for my honest opinion. X
Tropes
Grumpy/sunshine
Angst AF!
Mafia
Infertility
Pregnancy
Look at her and d!e
Possessive
Banter (so good)!
Spice / 🌶 🌶 🌶 🌶
I received a copy of this book for my honest opinion. X
Tropes
Grumpy/sunshine
Angst AF!
Mafia
Infertility
Pregnancy
Look at her and d!e
Possessive
Banter (so good)!
Spice / 🌶 🌶 🌶 🌶
August 9, 2025
2.5
Idk what this book was but it was not romance , the plot as ridiculous as it was, was wayyyy better than the romance it was also too long
Sooo many unncessary scenes and soo dragged
Safety
So it was safe
It had misunderstandings and implied cheating, the mmc made her believe he cheated with her sister, and purposely said her sister's name while he was masturbating when he knew she was there because of smth ( see spoiler below )
They were apart for 80% of the book because he was arranged to marry another aka he was married to someone else for most of the book and although nothing happens with that woman physically he still had to pretend because it was apart of his plan
The author was trying so hard to make the fmc as strong but she was just stupid like DUMB
The mmc was a big douchbag as well.
Basically he cheated on his wife with the fmc which was still icky to me even though it wasn't between the MCs and the marriage was arranged and the ow was a bitch
His wife got artificially inseminated with his sperm while he was sleeping with the fmc ,EW but it never worked she never got pregnant
Some spoilers ahead
The drama wass sooo OTT
His wife turns out to be the fmc's sister but no no one made the connexion because her name is Aleena but somehow the mmc calls her by her middle name Arabella
Then the mmc finds out he has a 5 year old son he never knew about and doesnt know who his mom is
Then he finds out that he and the fmc are siblings lol
Then oh wait not she's not his sister she's his half brother mikhail's half sister
And wait there's more she's also his son's mom
Idk what this book was but it was not romance , the plot as ridiculous as it was, was wayyyy better than the romance it was also too long
Sooo many unncessary scenes and soo dragged
Safety
So it was safe
It had misunderstandings and implied cheating, the mmc made her believe he cheated with her sister, and purposely said her sister's name while he was masturbating when he knew she was there because of smth ( see spoiler below )
They were apart for 80% of the book because he was arranged to marry another aka he was married to someone else for most of the book and although nothing happens with that woman physically he still had to pretend because it was apart of his plan
The author was trying so hard to make the fmc as strong but she was just stupid like DUMB
The mmc was a big douchbag as well.
Basically he cheated on his wife with the fmc which was still icky to me even though it wasn't between the MCs and the marriage was arranged and the ow was a bitch
His wife got artificially inseminated with his sperm while he was sleeping with the fmc ,EW but it never worked she never got pregnant
Some spoilers ahead
The drama wass sooo OTT
His wife turns out to be the fmc's sister but no no one made the connexion because her name is Aleena but somehow the mmc calls her by her middle name Arabella
Then the mmc finds out he has a 5 year old son he never knew about and doesnt know who his mom is
Then he finds out that he and the fmc are siblings lol
Then oh wait not she's not his sister she's his half brother mikhail's half sister
And wait there's more she's also his son's mom
November 28, 2024
Good Book
I liked Zoya from book one she was loving, loyal and just enough crazy for Nikita (Doc’s) BFF and I loved those two together as BFF’s.
However Zoya and Andrik were off the charts hot and spicy and I hated what they went through when his father told who Zoya allegedly was. His Grandfather could have squashed that misconception but he didn’t and that was awful of him.
I loved Mikhail he was such a good character and I’m not sure if book 3 is going to be about him, Aleena or someone else.
The reasons why I didn’t give 5 stars is:
Where was the consequences for Dina and her lying and threats to Zakhar, she should have been dealt with like everyone else who hurt Zoya.
They didn’t fully explain what happened to the federation and why they had such a hold on the family, or explain how they actually took them out.
What happened with Ano? Why didn’t we see Zoya tell him who he was and her suspicions on who hurt him and left him for dead.
She had photos she could have shown him and explained what happened before he was hurt. This is why I’m not sure if book 3 will be Aleena and Ano.
I would have liked to have seen Stansy reunited with Mikhail and Zoya and even though Zak was mentioned I would have liked a little more on him as I thought he was such a cute little character.
I would recommend this series but I didn’t realise I have to wait so long for book 3 so if you don’t like to wait my suggestion would be to add to your TBR and start the series in April 2025 so you can read all 3 books in the series.
I liked Zoya from book one she was loving, loyal and just enough crazy for Nikita (Doc’s) BFF and I loved those two together as BFF’s.
However Zoya and Andrik were off the charts hot and spicy and I hated what they went through when his father told who Zoya allegedly was. His Grandfather could have squashed that misconception but he didn’t and that was awful of him.
I loved Mikhail he was such a good character and I’m not sure if book 3 is going to be about him, Aleena or someone else.
The reasons why I didn’t give 5 stars is:
Where was the consequences for Dina and her lying and threats to Zakhar, she should have been dealt with like everyone else who hurt Zoya.
They didn’t fully explain what happened to the federation and why they had such a hold on the family, or explain how they actually took them out.
What happened with Ano? Why didn’t we see Zoya tell him who he was and her suspicions on who hurt him and left him for dead.
She had photos she could have shown him and explained what happened before he was hurt. This is why I’m not sure if book 3 will be Aleena and Ano.
I would have liked to have seen Stansy reunited with Mikhail and Zoya and even though Zak was mentioned I would have liked a little more on him as I thought he was such a cute little character.
I would recommend this series but I didn’t realise I have to wait so long for book 3 so if you don’t like to wait my suggestion would be to add to your TBR and start the series in April 2025 so you can read all 3 books in the series.
May 1, 2025
**Audio Review**
I wanted so badly to like this book, but it just didn't quite hit the mark for me. The book itself is very long and many scenes feel as though they are drawn out. The plot seems simple based on the blurb, yet the events in the book are complicated and difficult to follow at times. The spicy scenes are pretty enjoyable and they have good physical chemistry. I found myself missing the "spark" that readers look for in a romance, however, and personally I don't feel like Andrik and Zoya clicked very well.
Zoya was made out to be a strong FMC but in many situations, I did not get that vibe from her. Andrik was assertive in the way that MMCs in positions of authority usually are, but there were a few instances where his softer side was shown. The twists and turns in the story had me constantly second-guessing their relationship and the validity of it. While a few of the twists were predictable, several of them left me gasping!
I have listened to a few books by June, and I think she is a powerhouse of a narrator. Her voice is very versatile, which she showed remarkably well in this story. Will was a new narrator to me, and he also did an incredible job with this story. Both narrators connected with the material and brought their A-game with the emotional scenes. There is a large cast of characters, and they have a range of accents, and June and Will nailed all of them. Excellent narration on both parts!
Thank you to Blue Nose Audio and Shandi for the opportunity to listen and review.
I wanted so badly to like this book, but it just didn't quite hit the mark for me. The book itself is very long and many scenes feel as though they are drawn out. The plot seems simple based on the blurb, yet the events in the book are complicated and difficult to follow at times. The spicy scenes are pretty enjoyable and they have good physical chemistry. I found myself missing the "spark" that readers look for in a romance, however, and personally I don't feel like Andrik and Zoya clicked very well.
Zoya was made out to be a strong FMC but in many situations, I did not get that vibe from her. Andrik was assertive in the way that MMCs in positions of authority usually are, but there were a few instances where his softer side was shown. The twists and turns in the story had me constantly second-guessing their relationship and the validity of it. While a few of the twists were predictable, several of them left me gasping!
I have listened to a few books by June, and I think she is a powerhouse of a narrator. Her voice is very versatile, which she showed remarkably well in this story. Will was a new narrator to me, and he also did an incredible job with this story. Both narrators connected with the material and brought their A-game with the emotional scenes. There is a large cast of characters, and they have a range of accents, and June and Will nailed all of them. Excellent narration on both parts!
Thank you to Blue Nose Audio and Shandi for the opportunity to listen and review.
November 21, 2024
Shandi, Shandi, Shandi, what have you done to me? I am in love with dark romance mafia boys now and I'm HERE FOR IT!!!
First, I fell in love with Maksim in Doctored Vows, and now I want me an Andrik. Yes, please!
Andrik's story begins with the lead up to his 5th birthday that is fun but turns tragic as his mother is forcefully removed from his life. Although Andrik is raised as the badass alpha who is groomed to become President of the federation, his ultimate goal is destroy the federation and find out (and take out) the man who took his mother away from him. Enter, Zoya who meets Andrik at her OB/GYN for her fertility issues (endometriosis) and the sparks fly.
I want to say so much about this story, about the twists and turns, but then I would be giving away WAY TOO MUCH. Let's just say that I did NOT see that coming, Shandi. You sucked me into this world and then pulled a switcheroo twist like that ... gurl~ ::ohsnap::
As for the spice, uhm, yes please. I'd classify this a 6 out of 5 on the spice-o-meter and worth every single tingle that you may have when reading. Yum!!! And for a side of humor, that Mikhail is a sympathy vomitter was hilarious, especially the explicit scene later in the book. But ewwww, I did not need to read the "why" of his disposition. Just ewwww!
I love that on Shandi's website she considers these big bad alpha mafia characters as being "gooey" for their gals. Yep, isn't that what we all want deep down inside, for our partner, Alpha, Beta, or otherwise, to just have the gooey for us???
#WorthTheRead #WorldBuilding #GreatCharacters
First, I fell in love with Maksim in Doctored Vows, and now I want me an Andrik. Yes, please!
Andrik's story begins with the lead up to his 5th birthday that is fun but turns tragic as his mother is forcefully removed from his life. Although Andrik is raised as the badass alpha who is groomed to become President of the federation, his ultimate goal is destroy the federation and find out (and take out) the man who took his mother away from him. Enter, Zoya who meets Andrik at her OB/GYN for her fertility issues (endometriosis) and the sparks fly.
I want to say so much about this story, about the twists and turns, but then I would be giving away WAY TOO MUCH. Let's just say that I did NOT see that coming, Shandi. You sucked me into this world and then pulled a switcheroo twist like that ... gurl~ ::ohsnap::
As for the spice, uhm, yes please. I'd classify this a 6 out of 5 on the spice-o-meter and worth every single tingle that you may have when reading. Yum!!! And for a side of humor, that Mikhail is a sympathy vomitter was hilarious, especially the explicit scene later in the book. But ewwww, I did not need to read the "why" of his disposition. Just ewwww!
I love that on Shandi's website she considers these big bad alpha mafia characters as being "gooey" for their gals. Yep, isn't that what we all want deep down inside, for our partner, Alpha, Beta, or otherwise, to just have the gooey for us???
#WorthTheRead #WorldBuilding #GreatCharacters
November 13, 2024
Deceitful Vows by Shandi Boyes is a book that follows the lives of Andrik and Zoya. Their story is one like no other. Andrik, our MMC, is a dominant alpha male who has no problem getting things done when he is disrespected or deceived. He is a man of few words and more action. Zoya, our FMC, is a fierce and witty woman who has dealt with deceit, sorrow, and low-self esteem. Her life has never been easy but she always tries to make things work. Especially when she meets, Nikita, her best friend from Doctored Vows. It is them against the world. Andrik, comes across Zoya and now wants to be the center of it. The only problem is, he can’t always make her do what he wants. She is a strong minded and outspoken woman who rarely does as she is told. That is, until Andrik comes into her life. Unfortunately, there is more than meets the eye. Andrik’s life is anything but easy. He struggles with choosing between what he wants and what he is required to do. Deceitful Vows is full of angst, lust, betrayal, and hope. It is full of twists and turns and constantly keeps you wanting more. Do not miss out. Make sure to read Doctored Vows (book one of Marital Privilege series) before you read this book as there are characters from that book that make a guest appearance. It is definitely a must read. Thank you Shandi for this wild ride. Definitely one that I didn’t expect but completely needed.
April 29, 2025
🎧 Audiobook Review: Deceitful Vows by Shandi Boyes 🎧
Narrated by: June DeBorahae & Will Peters
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
If you're craving a forbidden romance packed with sizzling chemistry, dangerous secrets, and a dynasty on the brink of destruction—Deceitful Vows is your next must-listen!
Zoya and Andrik's story had me hooked from their electric first encounter (seriously, the sparks were insane 🔥). What starts as one passionate night unravels into a web of deceit, danger, and impossible choices. Andrik’s charm? Lethal. Zoya’s resilience? Legendary.
This is dark romance at its most delicious—scandal, betrayal, dynasties, and a hero who would tear down empires to claim his forbidden love.
Bonus? June DeBorahae and Will Peters bring the tension and heat to life in the most addictive duet narration. 🎙️🔥
If you love dangerous liaisons, hidden agendas, and sinful slow burns, you NEED this one on your playlist. 🎧
#ShandiBoyes #MaritalPrivilegesSeries #DeceitfulVows #JuneDeBorahae #WillPeters #NewAudiobook #MustListen #RomanceAudio #RomanceAudiobook #Booksofig #Audiobooksofig #Bookstagram #Bookstagrammer #Audiobookstagram #LoveAndLies #MafiaRomance #BookRec #Bookish #DuetNarration #BlueNoseAudio #BNAudio #EnemiesToLovers #ForbiddenRomance #AudiobookAddict #DarkRomance #SizzlingRomance #TBRList
Narrated by: June DeBorahae & Will Peters
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
If you're craving a forbidden romance packed with sizzling chemistry, dangerous secrets, and a dynasty on the brink of destruction—Deceitful Vows is your next must-listen!
Zoya and Andrik's story had me hooked from their electric first encounter (seriously, the sparks were insane 🔥). What starts as one passionate night unravels into a web of deceit, danger, and impossible choices. Andrik’s charm? Lethal. Zoya’s resilience? Legendary.
This is dark romance at its most delicious—scandal, betrayal, dynasties, and a hero who would tear down empires to claim his forbidden love.
Bonus? June DeBorahae and Will Peters bring the tension and heat to life in the most addictive duet narration. 🎙️🔥
If you love dangerous liaisons, hidden agendas, and sinful slow burns, you NEED this one on your playlist. 🎧
#ShandiBoyes #MaritalPrivilegesSeries #DeceitfulVows #JuneDeBorahae #WillPeters #NewAudiobook #MustListen #RomanceAudio #RomanceAudiobook #Booksofig #Audiobooksofig #Bookstagram #Bookstagrammer #Audiobookstagram #LoveAndLies #MafiaRomance #BookRec #Bookish #DuetNarration #BlueNoseAudio #BNAudio #EnemiesToLovers #ForbiddenRomance #AudiobookAddict #DarkRomance #SizzlingRomance #TBRList
November 8, 2024
If you are one who does quick run thru's you might not want to do it with this one. This magical carpet ride will need your full attention so grab your snacks, drinks, your favorite cozy blanket and get ready. You just might need a neck massage after reading this roller coaster with all the whip lashes you will get. Miss Shandi is taking us on this journey with no safe words and I am here for ALL of it.
My girl Z is bad. She knows what she wants and is not afraid to get it. When she loves, she loves hard with anyone in her circle. She a ride or die to the fullest.
Andrik is a man obsessed, possessed and will send you to the afterlife if you even look at what's his. Make no mistake Z is his.
Their story had it ALL. The twist and turns, the angst, touch her and see what happens vibes. I may have finished it but their story is still on my mind even now. Absolutely LOVED every page of this one.
Tho its a standalone, I would suggest you read Doctored Vows first just so some things will make sense as you read this one. Actually, why haven't you read Doctored Vows yet. Between Maksim and Andrik I wouldn't know who to choose so I'd choose both. Run and read both you won't regret it. I Promise.
My girl Z is bad. She knows what she wants and is not afraid to get it. When she loves, she loves hard with anyone in her circle. She a ride or die to the fullest.
Andrik is a man obsessed, possessed and will send you to the afterlife if you even look at what's his. Make no mistake Z is his.
Their story had it ALL. The twist and turns, the angst, touch her and see what happens vibes. I may have finished it but their story is still on my mind even now. Absolutely LOVED every page of this one.
Tho its a standalone, I would suggest you read Doctored Vows first just so some things will make sense as you read this one. Actually, why haven't you read Doctored Vows yet. Between Maksim and Andrik I wouldn't know who to choose so I'd choose both. Run and read both you won't regret it. I Promise.
November 15, 2024
Shandi Boyes does it to me every single time. Her books are addicting and the withdrawal after "the end" is real. I should plan on taking the next day off when I pick up one of her books because once I start, there's no putting it down.
Deceitful Vows weaves a web of lies, betrayal and heartbreak that will have you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. This is one heck of a rollercoaster ride that you won't want to end.
Andrick is used to getting his way, but he sure met his match with Zoya. Our girl is fierce and feisty and won't back down to Andrick's demanding and possessiveness ways. The turmoil and angst is next level and when that man declares Zoya is his...whew! Don't even think of looking her way.
Get ready for a next level, addictive read that will have you feeling all the emotions and falling in love with this couple and their story.
The dedication is chef's kiss. I'll arch all day thank you very much.
The epilogue will calm your racing heart and spiked adrenaline from the ride.
I cannot wait for book 3! I'm ready to jump back on the rollercoaster now!
Deceitful Vows weaves a web of lies, betrayal and heartbreak that will have you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. This is one heck of a rollercoaster ride that you won't want to end.
Andrick is used to getting his way, but he sure met his match with Zoya. Our girl is fierce and feisty and won't back down to Andrick's demanding and possessiveness ways. The turmoil and angst is next level and when that man declares Zoya is his...whew! Don't even think of looking her way.
Get ready for a next level, addictive read that will have you feeling all the emotions and falling in love with this couple and their story.
The dedication is chef's kiss. I'll arch all day thank you very much.
The epilogue will calm your racing heart and spiked adrenaline from the ride.
I cannot wait for book 3! I'm ready to jump back on the rollercoaster now!
November 4, 2024
It’s going to take me a hot minute to get over that book hangover. Holy Moly Batman! Andrik is dominant, possessive and very much the “touch her and d!3” we all crave in a book boyfriend. Zoya is witty, funny as hell and takes no sh!t from anyone.
I relate to what Zoya goes through in many ways. Parts of it were like reading my own story. But did Andrik care? Negative ghost rider. The sun was still shining out of Zoya in his eyes.
Everything is felt in this book. EVERYTHING! So. Fair warning there. That’s the most spoiling I’ll do here.
Shandi’s work always blows my mind. It’s so….real and raw and so dang good. She’s written so many books across multiple series that all intertwine somehow and yet I still feel as though this is only the beginning. Super excited to see who else from her world gets a book!
To the men that will always only kneel for their queens 💜
Have some tissues ready. Your heartstrings will thank you.
I relate to what Zoya goes through in many ways. Parts of it were like reading my own story. But did Andrik care? Negative ghost rider. The sun was still shining out of Zoya in his eyes.
Everything is felt in this book. EVERYTHING! So. Fair warning there. That’s the most spoiling I’ll do here.
Shandi’s work always blows my mind. It’s so….real and raw and so dang good. She’s written so many books across multiple series that all intertwine somehow and yet I still feel as though this is only the beginning. Super excited to see who else from her world gets a book!
To the men that will always only kneel for their queens 💜
Have some tissues ready. Your heartstrings will thank you.
May 3, 2025
Twists, Turns, and a Slow-Burn
Deceitful Vows is my second read by Shandi Boyes, and she definitely has a knack for drawing out a story, dropping just enough hints to keep you guessing. I’ll admit, I spent a good chunk of the book confused about where things were headed, but then—boom!—everything came together in a way that left my jaw on the floor. The twists are worth the wait, even if the pacing felt a bit slow at times.
The narrators June deBorahae and Will Peters are rather new to me. Both did a solid job bringing the characters to life, though neither stood out in a way that was particularly memorable for me. Still, their performances were clear and easy to follow.
Overall, *Deceitful Vows* is an average listen for me, mostly because it took its sweet time getting to the good stuff. If you enjoy a slow-burn with a shocking payoff, this might be right up your alley. I’m curious to see where the series goes next!
Deceitful Vows is my second read by Shandi Boyes, and she definitely has a knack for drawing out a story, dropping just enough hints to keep you guessing. I’ll admit, I spent a good chunk of the book confused about where things were headed, but then—boom!—everything came together in a way that left my jaw on the floor. The twists are worth the wait, even if the pacing felt a bit slow at times.
The narrators June deBorahae and Will Peters are rather new to me. Both did a solid job bringing the characters to life, though neither stood out in a way that was particularly memorable for me. Still, their performances were clear and easy to follow.
Overall, *Deceitful Vows* is an average listen for me, mostly because it took its sweet time getting to the good stuff. If you enjoy a slow-burn with a shocking payoff, this might be right up your alley. I’m curious to see where the series goes next!
November 4, 2024
I’m not sure my review can express how gripping this story is. This story is intense, powerful, and all-consuming. The twists and turns had my heart racing and made this a real page turner. I gasped, nearly threw my phone, cried, smiled, giggled, and ignored responsibilities while binge reading (totally worth it!). You will too. Everything about their love and connection is addictive. You feel all of their emotions as if you are them as they navigate their complex, frustrating, and often times heart breaking journey. The highs are high and the lows are low. Shandi shows she is an absolute boss again at writing dual POV, showing various POV by over lapping the events from Doctored Vows, and giving us a spicy new book boyfriend. This may be my new favorite and I’m excited to see where the Marital Privileges series goes.
Best enjoyed after reading Doctored Vows.
ARC review
Best enjoyed after reading Doctored Vows.
ARC review
November 8, 2024
It took me a little while to realise Nikita was the same one as in Doctored Vows but as soon as I did it was fascinating to read her story from a different perspective. This is a complicated story so full of twists and turns that the reader has to pay close attention or they will become lost. There are some sad moments but there are many more steamy, hot moments. Andrick and Zoya are electric but so full of secrets and angst it is a wonder they ever get together. Of course, Zoya’s mother is no help what a nasty character she is! The course of true love never did run smooth is so true for Zoya and Andrick. The characters in this story are wonderful and so well brought to life. I loved Mikhaïl and Zac and Ano is another man of mystery. An incredible story with a beautiful epilogue that will make you forgive Shandi for all the emotional turmoil she caused while reading.
April 14, 2025
This book might be ok but the writing style is horrible. There were so many times I was downright confused by what was going on. Zoya would be talking to one person, in one setting and then the very next paragraph she would be across town talking to someone else. There was absolutely no flow to the story line. It was all over the place, emotions were all over the place. There was absolutely no consistency with ANYTHING. First Zoya was in so much pain all the time especially during smex. Then she was having/wanting it all the time and running around without a care in the world. Andrik was a bipolar SOB. I understand why he was that way due to his family issues. But it was excessive, confusing, and annoying. I wanted to like this so bad because the general theme of this book was intriguing but this was such a disappointment.
July 13, 2025
The book is an interconnected standalone series but I felt like it would be better to not call it standalone. the first book leaves a lot of questions in your head but the second book answers a lot of those. Not all are answered but yet it felt better than the first book.
The plot development was good but the climax felt anti climatic. It was a lot of build up for an unsatisfactory climax. I loved the character of Mikhail. He was funny and cute. The plot twists were good.
I wanted revenge for what Zoya had gone through and how unjust it was of Dina. I wanted Andrik to do more than just hurt Zoya. Be it emotionally or mentally. Yes, there was obssession but there was hurt too. A lot of hurt.
The was good and I am starting to love shandi's books but I wanted more. I was just unsatisfied when I finished the book.
Happy reading!!
The plot development was good but the climax felt anti climatic. It was a lot of build up for an unsatisfactory climax. I loved the character of Mikhail. He was funny and cute. The plot twists were good.
I wanted revenge for what Zoya had gone through and how unjust it was of Dina. I wanted Andrik to do more than just hurt Zoya. Be it emotionally or mentally. Yes, there was obssession but there was hurt too. A lot of hurt.
The was good and I am starting to love shandi's books but I wanted more. I was just unsatisfied when I finished the book.
Happy reading!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 9, 2024
It is hard to describe the emotions that you are about to embark on.
Deceitful
Betrayal
Heartbreak
Lies
Frustration
Anger
Sorrow
Drama as only a Shandi Boyes storyline can give.
Mafia as always have a dominating over the top.
Alpha behaviour ensuring their demands are meant regardless of who they destroy in the process. The Russian mafia mixed with political power.
Zoya has had a hard,often unloved young life, that is until she catches the eye of Andrik. Andrik is a man who is fighting both his political family and the federation to ensure he gets his revenge.
What he wasn't expecting was that a certain stubborn strong willed and feisty Zoya would prove to be his undoing.
Such an epic read.
Highly recommended reading.
Deceitful
Betrayal
Heartbreak
Lies
Frustration
Anger
Sorrow
Drama as only a Shandi Boyes storyline can give.
Mafia as always have a dominating over the top.
Alpha behaviour ensuring their demands are meant regardless of who they destroy in the process. The Russian mafia mixed with political power.
Zoya has had a hard,often unloved young life, that is until she catches the eye of Andrik. Andrik is a man who is fighting both his political family and the federation to ensure he gets his revenge.
What he wasn't expecting was that a certain stubborn strong willed and feisty Zoya would prove to be his undoing.
Such an epic read.
Highly recommended reading.
April 23, 2025
BRATVA
RUSSIAN
ENDOMETRIOSIS REP
ZOYA has been away from home since she was a teen due to her medical diagnosis... her mom holds fertility on a pedestal so when she was told she was infertile mom threw her to the side... :(
" I PROMISE TO LOVE, OBEY AND NEVER TELL MY WIFE ABOUT YOU "
ANDRIK is the family boss... he first crosses paths with Zoya after a check up at her gynecologists office.
he is at the mercy of the federation ... lies , deceit, the need to protect and everything associated with it all comes to play during the development of this story ! I was on the edge of my seat trying to unravel all the madness. well done !!!
the audio was absolutely perfect ! :)
RUSSIAN
ENDOMETRIOSIS REP
ZOYA has been away from home since she was a teen due to her medical diagnosis... her mom holds fertility on a pedestal so when she was told she was infertile mom threw her to the side... :(
" I PROMISE TO LOVE, OBEY AND NEVER TELL MY WIFE ABOUT YOU "
ANDRIK is the family boss... he first crosses paths with Zoya after a check up at her gynecologists office.
he is at the mercy of the federation ... lies , deceit, the need to protect and everything associated with it all comes to play during the development of this story ! I was on the edge of my seat trying to unravel all the madness. well done !!!
the audio was absolutely perfect ! :)
April 29, 2025
story ⭐️⭐️⭐️
performance ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️
The story is all over the place it made me mad seriously Zola is strong and doesnt take anyone attitude, but with Andriq she is weak and she cant control hersef knowing he is married not knowing it her sister who is the wife. their is a lot of secretcy around Zola and Andriq about their life and Mikhail Andriq brother is befriend Zola and they watch her. Zola life havent been easy as her mother is rich which Zola should be right but because she is infertile she was kick out at 15 so she been on her own. Zola accept to be a Mistress untiL she find out her sister is the Wife. Andriq life in the federation has been discipline and he didnt follow his brother would be punished until Andriq obeyed and follow their rules.
performance ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️
The story is all over the place it made me mad seriously Zola is strong and doesnt take anyone attitude, but with Andriq she is weak and she cant control hersef knowing he is married not knowing it her sister who is the wife. their is a lot of secretcy around Zola and Andriq about their life and Mikhail Andriq brother is befriend Zola and they watch her. Zola life havent been easy as her mother is rich which Zola should be right but because she is infertile she was kick out at 15 so she been on her own. Zola accept to be a Mistress untiL she find out her sister is the Wife. Andriq life in the federation has been discipline and he didnt follow his brother would be punished until Andriq obeyed and follow their rules.
May 2, 2025
ALC Audiobook Review
5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
5🎙️🎙️🎙️🎙️🎙️
3🌶️🌶️🌶️
Deceitful Vows is the second book in the Marital Privileges series. This book is full of twist and turn, secrets and betrayals. Parts of this book is on the same timeline as book one. This is Zoya and Andrik’s story. Zoya is Nikita’s best friend. Andrik is the first born son to take over his family’s business and legacy. He just has to provide an heir first. I am obsessed with Andrik and Zoya’s love for each other. They both have to jump through hoops to get their HEA. I can’t wait for the next book in this series!
June deBorahae and Will Peters did a phenomenal job narrating this book in duet style narration. They did a fantastic job with the dialogue and accents.
5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
5🎙️🎙️🎙️🎙️🎙️
3🌶️🌶️🌶️
Deceitful Vows is the second book in the Marital Privileges series. This book is full of twist and turn, secrets and betrayals. Parts of this book is on the same timeline as book one. This is Zoya and Andrik’s story. Zoya is Nikita’s best friend. Andrik is the first born son to take over his family’s business and legacy. He just has to provide an heir first. I am obsessed with Andrik and Zoya’s love for each other. They both have to jump through hoops to get their HEA. I can’t wait for the next book in this series!
June deBorahae and Will Peters did a phenomenal job narrating this book in duet style narration. They did a fantastic job with the dialogue and accents.
July 8, 2025
Again, it’s marital not martial…
Your proofreader still hasn’t fixed this!
Okay, storyline is very confusing because frankly, it’s too complicated. Fortunately, my first question was answered quickly. Kazimir and Andrik are the same person. One of those is his middle name. Then we have the mother who isn’t, a sister who is half maybe, and a boy child with a heart condition that was too convenient for the story.
The couple from book 1 obviously show up when the hen party occurs. And then there’s all of the transplant stuff, and now missing doctors. It’s just too much.
Still some weird grammar and use of words that aren’t quite correct.
KU read. Average read, not as good as book 1 in my opinion.
Your proofreader still hasn’t fixed this!
Okay, storyline is very confusing because frankly, it’s too complicated. Fortunately, my first question was answered quickly. Kazimir and Andrik are the same person. One of those is his middle name. Then we have the mother who isn’t, a sister who is half maybe, and a boy child with a heart condition that was too convenient for the story.
The couple from book 1 obviously show up when the hen party occurs. And then there’s all of the transplant stuff, and now missing doctors. It’s just too much.
Still some weird grammar and use of words that aren’t quite correct.
KU read. Average read, not as good as book 1 in my opinion.
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