I did a bad thing... And the man I love is here to make me pay for it.
"You're coming with me," he snarls. "There's zero percent chance THAT's happening," I fire back. But I only get about two steps away before Andrey decides to take matters into his own hands. Literally. And it's me. I'm "matters."
So now, I'm back where I started. Stuck somewhere I don't belong with a dangerous man who hates me. The difference between now and then? This time around... I'm pregnant with his twin babies.
EMERALD VICES is Book 2 of the Kuznetsov Bratva duet. The story begins in Book 1, EMERALD MALICE.
Nicole Fox writes smart, sexy mafia romance novels. She is a crazy cat lady in her late 30s with a coffee addiction, an overactive imagination, and a husband who somehow puts up with her impulsive need to keep buying new plants for their house.
WTF…. Are we reading the same book? How does everyone just accept that one minute they hate each other, then magically without any explanation he calls himself her husband. Then sometimes she goes from having a baby back to babies. Wall sex at 7 months pregnant with twins?? 100% impossible as described. I gave up at 26% because I just couldn’t take all of the inconsistencies. It makes me mad that I read the whole long ass first book, then this one was too awful to finish…
Is it wrong that my favourite characters are either the teenage boy who defects to the enemy and becomes their son or the badass guard dog with a sixth sense for enemies and will rip the throats out of anyone who threatens Misha or Natalia. Looking and there is a HEA to look forward too with babies and dead enemies... Win win right?
DNF JESUS CHRIST I FUCKING HATE HATE HATE HATE THE FMC. HOW CAN A FMC BE SO BLOODY DUMB?!?!SO INCONSIDERATE..GOOD LORD I AM SO FUCKING PISSED!! SHE SINGLE HANDEDLY RUINED THE WHOLE SERIES FOR ME.
MANNN WHAT A BLOODY DISAPPOINMENT. Sometimes authors need to realise , that stubbornness and Dumb ass fuckery are two diff things.
The story picks up right after the events at the end of Book 1 and I appreciate that! The pacing of the book was on point, I never found a section of the book where it slowed down to the point where I started to get bored, but I never felt overwhelmed at the information we got. I also loved the timeline and how that moved along and we ended up with a duet that took place over a year. We got to see how Andrey and Natalia's relationship evolved over that time and it did not feel like instalove which I find is a fine line to straddle in mafia romances (for the record I dislike instalove). One thing that I loved so much, the mental health representation in this book being realistic! So many authors seem to shove it in so that they can say it has that, but Nicole showed that its something you have to work at, you don't just get better overnight. I had an inkling of who Misha's father was, and it made me nervous as to how Andrey would treat him, but honestly, I don't know why I was nervous! We saw, as soon as Natalia took Misha into her heart, Andrey would love and protect him. When he would call Natalia and Andrey mom and dad, I'm pretty sure I cried. My only complaints about the book was not enough Remi and Leonty, Leif and Olaf, I wanted more of all of them, but I get it that the cast of characters was already really big.
"Progress is progress no matter how slow." This is something I need to say to my kids when they are having a hard time with something as well.
"Forever started with you." I swooned.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Yup, the heroine became dumber. Didn’t think it was possible. The inconsistencies are unbelievable, we have people coming back from the dead (previously really dead) , a never ending pregnancy and the most boring sex ever. Save yourself.
This is a great finale to Natalia and Andrey's story. It is far from over, but what a way to go!!!
This picks up right where we left off and doesn't skip a beat! Andrey and Natalia have to work together and compromise, but Andrey doesn't like to compromise. However with more and more threats looming over head, things get worse before they can get better. Andrey finds a good balance between family and Family, which he learns is easier to do.
Natalia struggles with the Bratva and her children, but in the end, if they are happy and given choices that's all that matters. Natalia finds her inner goddess and strength to stand up for herself and her family. She is so much more than she ever thought was possible.
This story has love, lust, romance, mystery, murder, family issues, tragedy and plenty of twists and turns to keep you glued to the pages!! I can't wait to see if there is more on Mila or Katya. I received an ARC of this book from the author.
B* keeps trying to get into trouble. Keeps trying to get away from the safe environment so the enemy can play target practice. She was also pregnant for wayyyy longer than ‘8 months’ cause the author can’t keep the timeline straight - 7months when she embedded him with a bullet and weeks of argument and not talking and about two months later she is 8 months pregnant. She use to have somewhat of a brain in the first book but now she common sense is for plot convenience only. She keeps acting like his job is for funsies and never serious enough to let him focus on it even though the threat of their enemy is very clearly in her face.
This is book 2 in the duet and picks up where book 2 ended in a cliffhanger.
Natalia is frequently TSTL and it's frustrating because why didn't she learn in book 1? Why does she suddenly think she can outsmart the criminal underworld? She seems to be more self-sabotaging in this book than she was in the first, which is also frustrating. But to be fair, Andrey is just as frustratingly stoic and emotionally stunted as he was in book 1. You can tell they're both trying in their own way though and do have growth, sooo it's worth the irritation at the beginning. Despite being realistically flawed people, they're still characters that you want to know what happens to them. You want to keep reading to make sure they get to live happily ever after with friends, family, and babies.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
After the cliffhanger of the first book of the duet I was itching to jump right back into Natalia and Andrey’s story and it certainly did not disappoint.
I can definitely say the stakes were at an all time high in this book. With enemies coming from every side Andrey does absolutely everything to ensure his loved ones remain safe💗
I loved the found family aspect of this book as it definitely shows up in many different forms. Firstly in aunt Annie and Natalia, how Annie basically raised Natalia after her parents die. We also see this in Natalia and Misha and how Natalia basically takes on the roll of mama bird for Misha, just like Annie did for her 😭 and how much support Natalia had with Katya and Mila, and basically how both these women found their own HEA with Andreys closest soldiers.
Overall I loved this duet and just like the first book it is jam packed with action and steam✨
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is the conclusion to Natalia and Andrey's story. The author once again brings the story to life as she paints her scenes perfectly and tells it in the dual POV. She brings a tug and pull/love and hate relationship as he tries his best to keep her and the twins from danger . It's an action packed story with a fun banter, moves fluidly and is a terrific read. Highly recommend reading.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and are freely given.
This second book was really annoying. It felt unnecessary and Natalia kind of just annoyed me the whole time. I also don’t get how they’re such a powerful bratva if it took them like a whole year to finally kill their enemies.
I loved the story line Nicole Fox delivered with this couple. The MLC gave a little freedom to the FLC, it was a family oriented story. Not only did Nicole tell the story of the main characters but she added a few supporting characters in the back ground which made it a little more interesting! This book does have a HEA! This book does have some spice to it and has some triggers of cheating but not in the main characters and child abuse.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Book two took me a while because it was too long and boring. Natalia was super frustrating. Her PTSD was very strange and she became another person hiding in jeep with a gun. Unbelievable. Too much talk and too little action to hold my interest.
to like the majority of the characters and the premise but hate the book in total, bravo
“I can’t take my eyes off him. It’s true that his life is a dangerous thing. But so is he. And if I have a prayer of being safe in this world… it’s with him.”
52% into book2 and she figures it out.
HOW COULD YOU THINK YOU COULD HAVE CHILDREN WITH THE HEAD OF THE BRATVA AND THEM NOT BE IN THE BRATVA WHEN THEY GROW UP?! - Literally grow up
Seriously such a stressful book. I know everything will work out eventually. But to get there, I was on a roller coaster.
“I couldn’t find you before I left—hence the note. I’m taking the kids to Aunt Annie’s old place for a few days. I just need a breather in a different environment. Misha and Remi are with me, plus my six-man security team. So there’s no reason to worry.” YOU ARE IN THE MIDDLE OF A WAR AND YOU’RE LEAVING THE BUNKER?!
Surprise surprise, immediately they have a tail … surprise surprise - she loses control of the car .., with her beloved children and dog … I HAVE LITERALLY NEVER BEEN MORE MAD AT AN FMC!!! Why would you run away AGAIN… this time with even MORE people that can’t protect themselves … these are months old babies, Natalia!! HOW WAS LEAVING THEIR SAFE HAVEN GOOD?!
I’m literally so mad. I’m tempted to stop reading it now at 87%
They took the boy baby and not the girl baby, and I just know she’s gonna act like she’s not the SOLE PERSON to blame for this.
Now she thinks SHE CAN BREAK INTO A COMPOUND … I’ve never … this character is so bad from start to finish. She’s a pushover and then she gets a backbone but it’s time and again always the wrong thing to be standing ten toes down for. How did I go from hating Katya to liking her? Mila continues to be a good character. Annie is great. Misha is wonderful. Andrey has had his ups and downs, but is BETTER THAN NATALIA EVERY STEP OF THE WAY. How can a character be so lame and so sad, but also blame everyone else for the things going on but still never stop to follow simple directions?! She may just be in the top ten worst characters of the year (2024).
“While Nikolai is preoccupied with Andrey and his men, I can sneak in, find Grigory, and get him out of there.” She’s literally so insane, all she’s going to do is give them ANOTHER hostage.
“This is my family, my son. If you were in my place, wouldn’t you do the same?” … ok, and what about Sarra!! She is potentially gonna be down two siblings and both parents, but sure. Go ahead and do something you’re not qualified for.
“It’s going to be okay,” I tell them, knowing I can’t be sure. “Everything’s going to be alright.” 🙄🙄🙄🙄
That ending …. Don’t piss me off … WE DESERVED A BETTER ENDING!!! You’re gonna make the book THAT long and end it like that?! Without the epilogues what would we even have?? Lame.
Two broken souls who don’t think they’re good enough for each other.
Natalia and Andrey meet under unique circumstances. Natalia’s best friend Kayta crashes Andrey’s brother’s wedding as revenge for being dumped by him. Natalia gets dragged along to help and runs into Andrey. One thing leads to another, and they end up spending the night together. As per Nicole Fox’s usual romances, she ends up pregnant, and Andrey takes charge to do everything he can to protect his new family.
Andrey Kuznetsov As our newest Nicole Fox Bratva boss, Andrey Kuznetsov is definitely the one to steal my heart. Weighed down by his past and afraid to love due to the ghost of his former lover, Andrey keeps everyone at a distance to protect them. So when he finds himself about to have a new family, he juggles the line between caring and keeping his walls up. As an MMC, his goal to give Natalia every comfort possible and prioritize her mental health was really nice to see. However, where he struggled a lot was being transparent enough to put himself out there and give Natalia what she truly wants: his love and support. He’s not your typical alpha-hole but rather a refreshing love interest who takes charge of the situations at hand and means well in all his actions, even though sometimes they don’t translate well and end up backfiring on him. Is it weird that I actually enjoyed the MMC finally having body betrayal syndrome? I hate it when FMCs have it, but there’s just something SO hot about an MMC experiencing it and then yielding to their lady.
“Lastochka, how could I not love you?”
Natalia Boone I once read a quote in a book where the female lead said, “I was never alone but always lonely,” and I was reminded of it when reading Natalia’s perspective. Natalia’s biggest problem is that she doesn’t see herself clearly. Having been through a very traumatic past, she’s so lonely, and despite being surrounded by people who truly love her, she cannot see it and finds herself enveloped in her own struggles and anxieties. I felt so bad for her throughout her pregnancy because she deserved companionship and support beyond what she received. I know that Andrey was just doing what he thought was best, but I still felt for Natalia. Despite her struggles, she is an FMC who is strong, who isn’t afraid to take charge and put her pride aside to show her true emotions. As someone who’s watched Nicole Fox’s writing develop through her career, it’s refreshing to see how she’s now creating these stronger, harder, and braver FMCs who are no longer pushovers—women who, in spite of adversity, fight for their loved ones.
“As if he can hear me thinking, Andrey slips his fingers through mine.The thoughts become white noise. The white noise becomes stillness.”
What I Truly Loved: The idea of found family worked so well in this duet. All of their friends and families living together as one happy chosen family really brings forward a new Bratva experience that isn’t just based on blood ties but rather loyalty and love.
Conversations about mental health, whether it be Natalia’s or Andrey’s, were also SO NICE to see in a mafia/Bratva romance. It’s very rare, and the push for therapy ultimately helped our couple overcome their struggles and become open and transparent in order to come to terms with their pasts. It really balanced out the dynamics between the two and added a unique and welcomed layer to the duet.
The two glowing highlights of this series were Misha and Remi. My baby Remi—where do I start? I love it when pets make appearances in books, but Remi, the emotional support service dog, stole my heart. He was not only perfect for Natalia in supporting her through her struggles but also for Misha, who desperately needed companionship as well. I loved seeing his sassy doggy personality and laughed so much through his antics.
And of course, Misha, my love—ugh. I literally cannot express how much I loved his storyline. I was so grateful to Natalia and Andrey for stepping up and taking charge of Misha the way they did. His adoption scene had me bawling so hard. It was heartfelt, so touching, and I really hope we see him again someday as an adult. The epilogue with him and Natalia just tore me up, and I need MORE.
“You’re brave and loyal. You’re kind and thoughtful and smart. What parents wouldn’t want a child like that? Our family is only complete with you in it, Misha.”
As usual, Nicole has outdone herself once more and come out with another duet that has really hit the mark.
What Do I Want Next? Misha and Olivia’s story! C’MON NICOLE, YOU CAN’T TEASE US IN THE EPILOGUE LIKE THIS AND JUST LEAVE US WANTING MORE! Just as we got Phoenix’s duet in Ripped Bratva (Artem and Esme’s son from Kovalyov Bratva), I would really love to see Misha get his own duet in search of his true love, Olivia. Fingers crossed this becomes a reality!
Read emerald first! Recap: After Nat has left the manor after shooting Andrey and is stumbling down the streets of the city. She needs her id and money so she calls her bff, Kat, to help but she knows best and tell Andrey and he goes to get her, which she’s pissed about but this is the start of what needs to happen for her to be okay. Nat is pissed at everyone and feels like she has no control or anyone to trust, when she is just blinded by her trauma and needs help navigating her emotions. Eventually after a roller coaster of things and fighting with everyone, Andrey has a dinner for her new she friends and Aunt Annie comes, but it was more a set up to convince her to go to therapy. She freaks out and runs to the garden, only Aunt Annie can talk to her but she pushes Andrey away again, but Annie tells him to be there for her not buy her things, she wants his time and him. She leaves again and stay at Kat small apt for a few days. When he gets her to come back he gifts her the dream nursery but when she is loving it her SIL, Mila, comes in and twists her mind on accident with Just one question, she sells everything. When he gets back and sees what she did, they have wild sex fight but in the end it only helps the surface tension not the root of their issue. They coexist and she is more trying to avoid him, but a visit to Aunt Annie she is told About how therapy helped her parents have a better relationship and better parents for it. Eventually she agrees to therapy with a great therapist and training in secret with Shaura as long as she doesn’t tell Andrey, she wants to do this alone. She starts to heal and become stronger mentally and overcome her gun fears, and defend herself. This allows her to realize she needs to at least be friends with Andrey to raise their kids and heal….they have a date and talk about a lot. She tells him how she feels and he just listens, it doesn’t give much feedback, he actually withdraws bc he thinks that’s what she wants when she wants him but with respect. After taking to Aunt Annie and going to Maria’s grave he closes that chapter and tells Nat how he feels, all or nothing, truth and partners in everything. When Nat is taken by fake cops that are actually Nikolai men, but Andrey saves her but she wants to see him question them. She ends up punching the main fake cop who threatened her and the kids but they get what they need. Kat goes under cover to get info from Viktor and it works but she is getting hurt, once she gets what they need, Nikolai as Salvik are working together. A hit is put out on Andrey mother, so he moved her, and Mila who actually is married to Viktor, even if he is scum who inly ever cheated on her. Mila is shot and thankfully Leony got her ther soon enough and she lives. They capture Viktor and his mark is carved off his chest and Ivan And Leony beat him to inches of life. In this Andrey admits that he has an heir and that he has a son, he already told Nat he would keep the family safe which she didn’t realize was a loop hole statement. Once again Nat leaves, only to her aunts old place with Misha, kids, dog and security, but they are attacked on the way and her son is taken by Salvik. When Andrey attacks from the front, Nat and Misha break in the back to find her baby and his brother. She finds Viktor and while fighting him Nikolai comes in and that buys her time. Nikolai thinks his son, Misha is on his side but the truth is he chose his family with Nat and Andrey, he finds Andrey. Nat tell Nikolai the truth and Viktor is forced to tell the truth finally, Nikolai shoots him. Misha breaks in and tackles Nikolai allowing Nat to get a gun and after he’s hit to the ground Nat stands and shoots Nikolai to defend her sons. Andrey comes in and finished both men. Then he directs them out to safety and he takes care of Salvik as well. In the end they live HEA as a big crazy manor filled with their chosen family.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Emerald Vices is second and final book of the Kuznetsov Bratva duet. The story began in book one, Emerald Malice. They're no cheating or cliffhanger and complete with a happily-ever-after. A brilliantly crafted story with complex individuals and a twisty storyline that captures the reader attention from the beginning and keeps you riveted and on the edge of your seat and turning the pages. A fast paced, thrilling, gripping and fascinating story. An addicting and unputdownable read. Hang on to your kindle and prepare yourself for this tantalizing and rollercoaster ride with action, secrecy, mystery and suspense. A definite page turner with enticing erotic scenes. A dark mafia romance, general romance, romantic suspense story, forced proximity romance, touch-her-and-die romance, organize crime story, billionaire romance, protective hero romance, protector romance, mob romance, contemporary romance, secret baby story, fake marriage romance, women's crime fiction story Bratva story with violence, spice, danger, drama, lies, deception, secrets, passion, enemies, mob war, rivalry, darkness, threats, attacks, twists and turns, mystery, power and control, tension, emotions, angst, anger, revenge, revelations, betrayal, new found family, loyalties, friendship, survival, forgiveness, acceptance, madness, lack of communication, family issue, traitor and love. The story picks off where it left with Natalia still struggling to fit in the Bratva life and still doesn't understand the dangers of being with a pakhan and the Bratva life. Andrey is still dealing with attacks all around and the defiance of Natalia is not helping. Natalia continously put her family at risk because she wants to protect instead she only cause more problems and almost get kill. Andrey dad Slavik is back from Russia and wants to take the Bratva from him. He not only have to fight against enemy on all side. Natalia refused to open up because of fear that history will repeat itself with her unborn child like her father did to her. They're so many trust issues between the two. Natalia took off running and putting herself and their baby in danger. But there's no where that she can hide where Andrey couldn't find her. He found her and bring her back under his protection where she has a problem being. Even when Natalia put up a fight Andrey still tries to show her how much he cares repeatedly even going as far as buying her expensive gifts. Will Andrey be able to protect his family from all his? Will they get their HEA?
I received an advanced copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Emerald Vices is the final book in The Kuznetsov Bratva Duet, and it is just as good as the first book.
Andrey and Natalia continue to work through their relationship. It seems the dangers of the pakhan are only growing and intensifying. At every turn another alliance reveals itself as well as new revelations. Andrey is determined to keep Natalia, as well as those he cares about safe. At the same time his feelings for her grow stronger. He still feels the only way to keep Natalia safe is to keep some distance between them.
Natalia is still struggling with her newfound situation. She understands the threat to her and her family are real but at the same time she doesn’t want Andrey to dictate what she can and cannot do. She misses her freedom, even though that freedom came with loneliness. She’s just as stubborn and headstrong as Andrey.
Through much of this duet our main couple suffer from a lack of communication. Each one is afraid to open up to the other for either fear of rejection on Natalia’s part or fear of giving up control on Andrey’s part. After a series of betrayals and dangerous situations they are finally able to open up to each other with their truths. They become closer and their relationship strengthens.
Natalia’s growth was so good! She was able to work through the trauma from her youth and became a fierce mama-bear. Andrey looked at Natalia in a new light and realized she was the perfect partner to live the life of a pakhans wife. Their HEA was hard fought and so well deserved.
This duet was so good and I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys a mafia romance with betrayals, danger, suspense, and twists that will leave you speechless. Even though Andrey and Natalia were the main couple, there are other relationships that are just as integral to the story. I loved the extended epilogue where we see how this group is living their lives in the future. I especially loved seeing Misha all grown up. I would love to see him get his own book.
Thank you to Nicole Fox and Booksprout for the ARC opportunity. This is my honest opinion for the book and I am leaving a review voluntarily.
Emerald Vices is book two of the Kuznetsov Bratva series. Emerald Vices is the continuation of the journey of Andrey and Natalia. Just like Emerald Malice, Emerald Vices was an absolute amazing mafia romance. Right after finishing Emerald Malice, I started reading Emerald Vices because I wanted to see what was going to happen between Andrey and Natalia. Author Nicole Fox did another amazing job with this mafia romance story. I was completely blown away by how entertaining and how enjoyable this book is to read. I’m thankful to have the opportunity to be able to read Emerald Malice and Emerald Vices, and to be able to get to know Andrey and Natalia. I would highly recommend this series to other readers. I’m looking forward to seeing what will be next for author Nicole Fox.
Emerald Vices Details: Natalia ran away from Andrey. She had shot him but she didn’t know how he was doing because she ran. Natalia is pregnant with twins and she is waiting for her best friend Katya to bring her purse and phone but the restaurant door opens and in walks Andrey. They go back to the mansion. The Bratva life is not what Natalia wants for herself and her children. Natalia wants to be in a loving relationship but she doesn’t think Andrey loves her.
Andrey is fighting against his Slavic and Nikolai, they have joined forces against Andrey. Andrey discovers that he has traitors in his Bratva. Natalia and Andrey thought they were having twin daughters but when Natalia went into labor she ended up delivering a girl and a boy. Andrey promises that he will keep his family safe. Misha is the son of Nikolai who was caught spying on Andrey. Natalia treated Misha as a son and Andrey developed feelings for Misha as a son also. Andrey stripped his brother Viktor of his status in the Bratva. He was forced to admit he had a son who is his heir to the Bratva. Natalia got upset and decided to leave with her children and Misha but they were ran off the road and Grigory the heir was taken.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Nicole Fox has crafted a story that’s as intense as it is addictive, and this second installment in the Kuznetsov Brata series does not disappoint.
The tension between the protagonist and Andrey is palpable from the get-go. The stakes are high right from the moment he snarls, "You're coming with me," and she fires back with her fiery retort. But it’s clear from the start that this is no ordinary romantic clash—there’s history, pain, and a whole lot of unresolved feelings simmering beneath the surface. The fact that she’s pregnant with his twin babies adds an extra layer of complexity and urgency that kept me glued to the pages.
Fox's writing shines in her ability to balance the push and pull between the characters. Andrey’s dangerous edge is thrilling, yet there’s an undeniable connection between him and the protagonist that makes you root for them, despite all the chaos surrounding them. The moments where she tries to assert her independence, only for Andrey to take “matters” (quite literally) into his own hands, are both tense and, dare I say, a little amusing in their own way.
What I really appreciated in Emerald Vices is the way Nicole Fox weaves in unexpected twists. Just when you think you’ve got the story figured out, she throws in a curveball that keeps you guessing and wanting more. The dynamic between the leads, with their mix of love, hate, and undeniable chemistry, is as addictive as it is intense.
And of course, the looming secret of her pregnancy adds a ticking time bomb to the narrative. It’s a situation that’s fraught with potential for explosive drama, and Fox handles it masterfully, creating a story that’s as emotionally charged as it is thrilling.
For anyone who enjoys a romance that’s as dark as it is passionate, with characters who are deeply flawed yet compelling, Emerald Vices is a must-read. Nicole Fox continues to deliver a series that’s brimming with suspense, unexpected twists, and the kind of tension that keeps you hooked until the very last page.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
An Unforgettable Conclusion to Natalia and Andrey’s Explosive Love Story
Emerald Vices by Nicole Fox is the perfect follow-up to the heart-pounding first book, taking the intensity and emotional stakes to a whole new level. After the jaw-dropping cliffhanger, I couldn’t wait to dive back into Natalia and Andrey’s world, and this sequel delivered everything I hoped for and more.
The tension between Natalia and Andrey is electric from the start. After their tumultuous past, seeing them navigate their relationship while facing new challenges and old enemies was absolutely gripping. The revelation that Natalia is pregnant with Andrey’s twin babies adds a whole new layer of complexity to their story. The stakes are higher than ever, with Andrey determined to protect his growing family at all costs, even as danger lurks around every corner.
Aunt Annie's unwavering support for Natalia, having raised her after her parents' deaths, is heartwarming. I also loved seeing Natalia’s nurturing side as she cares for Misha, Her mother intuition for her little teen boy always kept me so emotional while reading.
The bonds between Natalia and her friends, Katya and Mila, provide a strong sense of community and solidarity, making the characters' journeys even more compelling.
The action in Emerald Vices is relentless, with plot twists that keep you on the edge of your seat. And of course, the romance is as steamy and passionate as ever, with Andrey and Natalia’s chemistry burning brighter than ever.
Overall, this duet is a masterclass in mafia romance, blending action, emotion, and sizzling romance into a story that’s impossible to put down. Nicole Fox has created a world that’s as dangerous as it is captivating, and I loved every minute of it.
A big thank you to Nicole Fox for providing a copy of this book via Booksprout I’m leaving this review with a full heart and a strong recommendation for anyone who loves a thrilling, steamy romance.
The continuation of the Kuznetsov Bratva saga hang on and you might want to make sure to double check that you are buckled up, dangerous men, alpha’s personified, possessive, oh, gorgeous, brooding all the makings of a story consisting with three D’s (dark, delicious, and dirty) 😊. There will be suspense, betrayal, death, darkness, secrets reveled, violence, hope, forgiveness, and maybe even love along the way! Picking up where book one left off, they are fighting through their relationship trying to make it work it seems the dangers of his being pakhan are getting worse every time he turns around there is something or someone around the corner his determination to keep those he love safe is by keeping them at a distance that includes his girl despite not telling her his feeling are growing. Natalia wants her freedom, but she also understands she can’t have the same freedoms she used to have she is struggling with finding the balance and she is just as headstrong as her man but they both have valid points he wants he wants her safe and she wants her freedom with her safety like the past. We learn that if they would just talk to one another then some of their problems would be manageable and he could plan for some of the dangers that may or may not happen but fear of rejection keeps them in their heads he is the pakhan he is supposed to be in control at all times if he tells her how he feels then that is a sign of weakness in his head unbeknownst to them both their weakness they both realize is their greatest strength but will it be too late when they realize the truth will he neutralize his enemies, will they stop fighting each other to see what right in front of them, and can they find happiness through the mess of what they are going through?
Natalia ran away from Andrey. She had shot him but she didn’t know how he was doing because she ran. Natalia is pregnant with twins and she is waiting for her best friend Katya to bring her purse and phone but the restaurant door opens and in walks Andrey. They go back to the mansion. The Bratva life is not what Natalia wants for herself and her children. Natalia wants to be in a loving relationship but she doesn’t think Andrey loves her. Andrey is fighting against his Slavic and Nikolai, they have joined forces against Andrey. Andrey discovers that he has traitors in his Bratva. Natalia and Andrey thought they were having twin daughters but when Natalia went into labor she ended up delivering a girl and a boy. Andrey promises that he will keep his family safe. Misha is the son of Nikolai who was caught spying on Andrey. Natalia treated Misha as a son and Andrey developed feelings for Misha as a son also. Andrey stripped his brother Viktor of his status in the Bratva. He was forced to admit he had a son who is his heir to the Bratva. Natalia got upset and decided to leave with her children and Misha but they were ran off the road and Grigory the heir was taken. Will Andrey be able to get rid of the danger to the Bratva and his family? Will Natalia and Misha go out to find Grigory? Will Andrey find Misha, Grigory and Natalia in time? Will Andrey and Natalia get married and have a peaceful life? Will Andrey and Natalia find love and happiness together in a Bratva life?
I loved the side stories of Shura & Katya and Leonty & Mila.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book via Booksprout.
Despite the wildly exciting ending of book one, this one starts off fairly slow. The drama at the beginning gets resolved a little too quickly and left an unexpected lull. I found myself mad at all the characters for half the book. They all had very valid reasons for being absolute pains in the ass, but it was torture to read (I say that very dramatically—I still raced towards the ending on the edge of my seat.) Natalia and Andrey spend most of the book at odds and I was desperately waiting for them to get their acts together.
The second half of the book? Chefs kiss. Between the action and the happily ever after for everyone involved, I was blissfully kicking my feet.
I enjoyed the way Natalia changed everyone on the Bratva for good. She was always there to humble the men and remind them that she wasn’t a pushover. Plus the way she brings them all together. Family is already so important to the Bratva, but Natalia brings a whole new layer to it. The theme of found family is so very prevalent in this duet. There’s so much to love about this ragtag group of “thugs” and the women that have brought them to their knees. With each addition to the family, my heart was melting.
As always with any Bratva inspired book, check the triggers / content warnings. I personally loved the drama and highly recommend picking these up if you want a high speed weekend binge, but I want everyone to have a safe read.
Book 1, and book 2. Do let me say right from the start --- do read and make your determinations. Another's reviews and opinions should not be trusted to be the same as what you feel may or may not be an excellent read for you!
The duo --- they both are pretty similar. I had long ago decided I was not going to read any more Fox books. Nicole Fox has a way of practically using the same plot from book series to book series with little change, though different character names. While I went ahead and continued to read several, I hoped for something different from her from time to time. While hers are somewhat predictable, I just cannot find any other of her subpar peers with a better mafia trope going on. So I stick with Nicole. There are grammatical/vocab/a few spelling issues to be worked out, but often so many less than her counterparts. Where have all the good proofreaders gone? I can be bought, of course! Back to the book. No spoilers. Mafia plot. Love happens. Pregnancy happens. Drama happens. Plot twists. Lots of side character friends. Some would probably have a more worthwhile storyline in their future. Spice? Idk, might make bored housewives swoon with fantasies! And that, Ms Fox knows, is what sells books!! 😀
It does get a 4 from me because she does express clearly and fluidly with her writing the story she tells.
I did a bad thing … And the man I love is here to make me pay for it.
"You're coming with me," he snarls. "There's zero percent chance THAT's happening," I fire back.
But I only get about two steps away before Andrey decides to take matters into his own hands. Literally. And it's me. I matter.
So now, I'm back where I started. Stuck somewhere I don't belong with a dangerous man who hates me. The difference between now and then?
This time around …. I'm pregnant with his twin babies.
This is the second book in the “Kuznetsov Bratva Duet” duet and you will not be disappointed! Andrey and Natalia’s relationship is like a roller coaster ride - with its up and downs, peaks and valleys. This book is action packed from start to finish with so many questions. Will Andrey and Natalia’s relationship survive? Will the Bratva survive the war started by his father on lies and deceit? Will their relationship survive both their past trauma’s? Will their pasts destroy any chance of a future together? Will parenthood bring them closer to each other? So many questions …. you will be hooked!
Nicole is the Queen of “dark mafia romance” and once again she has excelled with this series. A thoroughly enjoyable read from page to page, one chapter to the next - at times you are metaphorical “on the edge of your chair” wondering what will happen next. Overall, I would highly recommend this book and you will not be disappointed 😊
The story was good enough for me to plow through in one day (actually read both books the same day), but this one had its issues like many of Ms. Fox's books.
1. The synopsis of the story made me expect something totally different than what I got. He never hated her, and she was gone for a few hours.
2. The sex positions described for someone who is pregnant, WITH TWINS, are completely unrealistic.. Again, it makes me wonder if the author has any knowledge of the typical human pregnancy.
3. There's a literal bratva war raging. Multiple people have hits out on them. Natalia has been kidnapped or had it attempted several times. Andrey is spread thin with dissension in his ranks... BUT Natalia "needs space." So why not bundle up 2 newborns and leave the protection of the manor, also insisting to drive herself?! She was begging to be attacked, the moron.
4. Bringing the mistress from Russia was a useless plot point.
That being said.. Natalia standing up for her kids (including Mischa) at the end and actually taking the kill shot - well that redeemed her a bit.
Love the relationship between Andrey and Mischa. I just hate women being written as having no common sense. The baby could've been abducted in a 100 different ways, why compromise the heroine's intelligence for no reason?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Natalia wants to protect her family but keeps making the wrong decisions and puts the life of not only herself, but her unborn child at risk. With Andrey’s father (Slavik) back in the picture trying to dethrone him from being the Pakhan, Andrey’s brother (Viktor) causing problems, and Nikolai (believes that Andrey set up his family and is out for revenge), enemies are all around and things are not safe for Natalia or her unborn children! Natalia is afraid of letting anyone in because she feels like everyone she has loved, has always left.
Communication is lacking when it comes to Natalia and Andrey. This is the cause of many of their misunderstandings and the fact that Andrey thinks he can dictate what Natalia will and will not do (even if it is to keep her safe) only fuel the fire! Will they ever be able to figure out how to communicate? Or will it take the spy (Misha) who has wormed his way into their hearts and Remi to make them see that they all need each other?
Lots of twists and turns, secrets, revenge, and revelations in this story. I had some tears while reading about Misha and really hope there is a book about him trying to find his childhood sweetheart, Olivia!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.