The fourth book in the Semyonov Bratva series featuring Dima. "Was it considered stalking if the woman you were stalking liked the idea of being stalked? It started out like any other job. My brother, the head of the Russian Mafia, wanted me to delete an opponent. Like the good brother I was, I decided to give him what he wanted. In doing so, I ended up finding a woman that made my cold, dead heart start to beat again. One day while doing some reconnaissance on my target, I happen to overhear Keely telling her friend one of her darkest fantasies, and I decide that I'd be the one fulfilling that particular craving for her. I tell myself that it's only once. I'd give in to that darkness inside of me once, and I'll leave her alone from then on. Except, once turns into twice. And twice turns into way too many to count. Just when I plan to cut all ties so she doesn't start to develop feelings for a killer, I find out that Keely doesn't have just one stalker. She has two. And the one that wasn't me wanted her dead, and I couldn't allow that to happen. Not to her. Not to the woman that not only chased my demons away, but also didn't care that I had them in the first place."--Back cover
Lani Lynn Vale is married to the love of her life that she met in high school. She fell in love with him because he was wearing baseball pants. Ten years later they have three perfectly crazy children and a cat named Demon who likes to wake her up at ungodly times in the night. They live in the greatest state in the world, Texas. She writes contemporary and romantic suspense, and has a love for all things romance. You can find Lani in front of her computer writing away in her fictional characters world...that is until her husband and kids demand sustenance in the form of food and drink.
4.5 Stars The last book in this incredible series. Dima is as great as I hyped him up in my mind. Dima and Keely may be a little broken, but you can easily see they make each other feel whole. What Keely went through at a young age she knows the darkness that lives on this earth. Dima and his family live in the grey area that makes sure that darkness keeps in check. Now I've said this with each book in this series, but this one did take me out of my reading comfort zone. I do not typically go for the stalking mafia romances, but man is this book good! I mean for me you can't go wrong with a book that has cats in it. I just love seeing this family growing and the kids bring out a different side of Dima. I know the series coming next and we are about to see familiar faces that really can't wait for their stories to be told. I can't recommend this series enough. Even if mafia romance isn't your go to you cant go wrong with a book written by Lani Lynn Vale.
Oh, Dima is the absolute perfect way to wrap up a phenomenal series.
Always Salty brings you a whole lot of crazy, a sprinkle of sweet, a dash of the unexpected, and a good dose of spicy because who doesn't love a good kick to their bite.
Dima is a looney. I mean, he is not all that mentally stable, and that's not a complaint, just a simple observation. I wouldn't have him any other way, though. He's obsessive with zero boundaries but so fiercely protective and loves with his everything to the few in his circle. He's also widely self-aware of his lack of sanity in some areas. The inner monologue was inner monologuing in the best ways.
Keely. My sweet keely. She has been through unspeakable things and still did not break. She's strong and stubborn even when she wanted to run and hide. She's sweet, loving, and understanding to an extent that not most would be. She's also not stupid to those around her and makes no excuses for crazy behaviour. But she sure enjoys alot of it.
I loved them. Are they normal by any standard.. that would be no. But they loved hard and fast and both broken made one dysfunctionally sweet whole. The chemistry is everything. They sweet moments... SWOON. The communication!!!! Just yes. Absofuckinglutely.
Side characters are always my favourite thing about Lani's books aside from the obvious. The chemistry between the siblings.. the new faces and old... the banter, bickering, and sweet moments as well as the blended family feel. It all just fit and felt perfect. The story evolved perfectly with great character growth and plot development. I laughed, swooned.. questioned my morals. Was flabbergasted at the end because what the actual fuck was that plot twist?!!!. But also the lawyer... everything. Anyway... I loved it.
Now I shall not so patiently wait for Grumpy Sunshine .
I recently finished reading Always Salty, the fourth installment in Lani Lynn Vale's Semyonov Bratva series, and I found it to be a captivating blend of mafia romance, dark themes, and intense chemistry. The story follows Dima and Keely, two characters with complex pasts and a deep connection that makes them perfect for each other.
One of the standout features of Always Salty is its ability to balance humor with darker moments. The book had me laughing at times, which was a pleasant surprise given its intense subject matter. Dima's protective nature and Keely's resilience make them a compelling couple, and their chemistry is undeniable. The inclusion of darker themes and spicy moments adds depth to the narrative, keeping readers engaged.
The plot is filled with twists and turns, particularly with the element of stalking, which raises interesting questions about consent and attraction. While some readers might find certain aspects of the story a bit unsettling, the way Vale handles these themes is thought-provoking.
However, I occasionally felt that the pacing could be more consistent, and some plot points might feel slightly predictable to some readers. Despite this, Always Salty is a solid four-star read for fans of mafia romances and those who enjoy complex, intense relationships. It’s a great conclusion to the Semyonov Bratva series, offering a mix of humor, darkness, and heartfelt moments that will keep readers hooked until the very end.
This is the 4nd book in the Semyonov Bratva series, but can be read as a standalone. I'd recommend this if you are in the mood for a medium spice mafia adjacent story about what happens when an assassin for the mob becomes obsessed with some he meets while working and they realize their broken pieces fit together.
Overall, I rate it 4⭐out of 5 based on the following: 🤩Enjoyment - 4; 👥Characters - 4; 📖Plot - 4; 🗺️Atmosphere - 4; and🖋️Writing - 4 with the first 3 categories being most important. Using my review scale, this is a great book and will be likely to get a re-read at some point.
What worked for me: • Dima's self-awareness about his issues and his total devotion for Keely • Keely's self-awareness about her issues and acceptance of Dima • The Semyonov family dynamics + the Truth Tellers MC alliance
Dima Semyonov is one heckuva unforgettable hero, or rather anti-hero as he's done some questionable things in the name of family. He's a man secure with who he is, a bit broken and unhinged, but who loves with all his heart. He's a bit crazy, but utterly swoon-worthy with his words and deeds...when directed at Keeley. The moment he sees her he's all in, letting her in on who and what he is, imperfections and all. Thus begins an epic and steamy story of opposites attracting, a story that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Along with an unforgettable hero, readers are introduced to Keeley. She's the kind of heroine you admire, the kind of heroine who's been bruised and battered by life, along with a few men along the way. She's got a good heart, is caring, and devoted to her brothers. She's starting over now too after an especially dark period for her, so Dima comes around just when she needs him most.
This story pulls you in from the very start. Watching these two perfectly imperfect people find themselves bound together makes for a steamy and swoon-worthy romance. There's plenty of bumps, steam, and suspense along the way. There's also pulse-pounding action, wtf moments, and a twist ending that's going to leave me in knots until Ms. Vale's next release. Along with a truly delightful main couple comes an equally enjoyable cast of secondary characters, some seen before and some new, all of which makes the story stronger and is another hallmark of Ms. Vale's writing. Readers looking for unique heroes and rollercoaster storylines only need look at Ms. Vale's bookshelf to find exactly what they're looking for.
Dima wad turned into an assassin by the US government and now he uses those skills for family and making sure evil is dealt with. Keely had spent years making up for her brother saving her and going to prison. There are twists in this book but there's one at the end that is crazy and elaborate.
First things first: a baklava is a dessert, a balaclava is a ski mask!
Anyway, now that I've gotten that off my chest. Always Salty is everything I love in a dark romance—possessive anti-hero, unexpected sweetness, a heroine who bends but doesn’t break, and a connection so intense it practically burns through the pages.
Dima is unhinged in the most delicious way. He knows he's not right in the head and makes zero apologies for it. His obsession with Keely is all-consuming, but it never once feels like too much because Keely? She wants the darkness. She doesn’t just tolerate his chaos—she thrives in it. The dynamic between them is wild, hot, and so strangely wholesome at the same time. It works because they’re both a little off in the exact same way.
Keely is an absolute gem. After all she’s been through, she’s earned every bit of peace and pleasure that Dima gives her. She’s self-aware, honest about what she wants, and doesn’t play the typical damsel role—she chooses her man and sticks with him, even when he’s a literal killer with a stalker complex. Honestly? Iconic.
Dima’s inner monologue is peak entertainment—violent, sweet, obsessive, hilarious. I loved being inside that man’s head. Plus, we finally get more Copper, and I’m already hyped for whatever Lani’s planning for him next.
This book was the perfect finale to the Semyonov Bratva series: gritty, swoony, spicy, and a little off-the-rails in the best way. Total win.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.
This is the story of Dima and Keely. I don't even know that I know how to describe Dima. He's not exactly the most stable person you will ever read about. But, you will love him all the same. He certainly has a side that is prone to obsession and forget boundaries. He has no clue what they are. However, he is fiercely loyal and protective of those in his small circle. Keely is a girl who has been through so much trauma in her life. However, she has not let that break her. On the inside she might want to run and hide but she is not going to give in to that. These two characters are broken but together they make each other whole. He is a trained assassin He has only ever killed for the government and his brother. But there is about to be a girl that walks into this life, flips it sideways, and he would kill for her. He is a bit of a stalker when it comes to Keely too. But she doesn't seem to find. He is the fantasy that she didn't have a face for but he is also her new brother in law. This story is so good you won't be able to lay it down. I loved these characters and I have to say this book has some really spicy moments in it. You do not want to miss it. It is the last book in the Semyonov Bratwa Series. If you haven't started it you really should. All the book are equally as good.
Enjoyed this one. The characters fit each other and recognized that fact quickly. I love a story with no relationship angst. Lots of action with a solid teaser for the next series. I'm hooked already.
If you like drama. This book is for you. If you like psychos that save the day for the ones they love. This book is for you. If you like reading revenge done in the form of vigilantes that look like good guys. This book is for you. If you like a love story with a little bit of death, sex, and family craziness...then do it. Read. This. Book. I loved Dima and Keely together. I'm looking forward to the next series where it looks like Keely's older brothers get their love matches.
ahh we made to the last book in this series.... Dima and Keely..... where do I start?? they might be one of my fav couples of the series. I absolutely loved their chemistry and how they fit so well together ❤️ They both have endured some horrible things and I love that they find their fit in each other. it was a great way to finish the series.
WOW… There is just something about the Semyonov men that will melt your heart. Hardcore, grizzly, scary men with a soft, almost gooey side for those they love. This is Dima Semyonov’s story and I simply loved it. Ms. Vale gave us a fantastic storyline full of grit, suspense, drama and lots of romance. Dima is fresh out of the service where the government turned him into a sure shot sniper. He’s a bit of a mess. He’s dangerous, excessive, a bit deranged yet very much in control. But he meets his match in Keely, a woman who is somewhat broken due to the evils that she suffered at the hands of her father, when she was a young girl.
When Dima overhears Keely telling a friend about her sexual fantasy, he knows right then and there he won’t only make it come true but he’s going to keep her. The more these two learn about one another the more thrilling life around them becomes. Dima will do anything for her, and I do mean anything. But is his over the top obsession with her going to drive her away? Or will their past haunts bring them closer?
I hate that this series is coming to an end, it’s just that good. But if Always Salty is the end, I must say it ends with a bang and a very exciting storyline. I highly recommend grabbing up all 4 of the Semyonov Bratva books. This is one magnetic family you too will fall in love with.
This was a good LLV book, it just isn’t one of my favorites. This one moved way too fast for me. Still it only took me less than a day to read so do with that what you will.
This is the final book in the Semyonov Bratva series but I have a feeling that we will see more of them in books to come so its not a forever goodbye.
This one was honestly my favourite as it features Dima who we have seen glimpses of in previous books but as he was away in the Military he wasn't a permanent fixture but now he is out the Military and back. We have met Keely briefly in the previous book as she is Carter's sister and I already loved her. She has been through so much, has so much pain and guilt surrounding her but she is much stronger then she thinks she is.
Soon as Dima meets her he is addicted to her. He learns everything he can about her, becoming her stalker but this does not scare her. The connection between them is instant and something so good and beautiful. She embraces his darkness and doesn't fear from him. These two were meant for each other.
As always in Lani's stories there is a little mystery running along in the back and this just adds to the appeal making this one hell of a page turner. She writes these stories and worlds so brilliantly i count down the days till the next one is released as i am addicted.
I cannot wait to see what is coming next in the new upcoming series
I was gifted a copy of this book by the Author and this is my honest opinion
Keely has experienced things that no one should have to and it changed her. The close relationship she shares with her brothers has only become stronger because of what they had been through. Any other woman would have run the other way when it comes to Dima and his antics, but she understands him in a way that no one else can.
Dima is a man who is also changed because of his time serving his country and being a Semyonov. He has his own version of right and wrong so when Keely comes into his life there is nothing he won’t do to keep her safe and be the man she needs.
The characters of Keely and Dima are captivating and although their relationship was unconventional they were a perfect match. Catching up with Dima’s family and getting to spend some time with Keely’s brother only made this story even better.
"A little bit of crazy is ok, as long as it's the crazy protecting you"
Stalker or protector? Dima fully embraces being both, he owns it and Keely accepts it - they are perfect for each other. Life has put them through the wringer and they both have broken pieces, but their broken pieces fit together perfectly, are they a little crazy? Yes definitely! Do they care? No not at all! The Semyonov's may be unique and a little (ok, a lot) scary, but you cannot help but love them and their scary. They embrace and protect family....to the death, they remove the dangerous from society and protect those who are being taken advantage of or hurt. They may work in the shadows but so do the vile filth they remove. I love that Dima and Keely are the second link between the families and cannot wait for Copper to get his girl too.
Now !!! I've not read any of the others in this series but I'm definitely gonna!!! Always Salty was a perfect mix of sweet, spicy and just a damn good story.
Dima and Keely urgh I loved these two!!! Dima is well......he's chaotic, obsessive and damn right sexy as hell lol. Yes he's a loony but you really can't help but love him and Keely wow what can I say she's been through a lot of trauma but she's a match for Dima. Their chemistry is off the scale hot 🥵 the banter is some of the best and had me in stitches! Dima is fresh out of service and he's a bit of a hot mess, he's dangerous but he's definitely in control. He meets his match in Keely she pushes him like I said the banter is 🤣 Dima will do anything for Keely and this just urgh men like this melt my black heart lol 🤣 but.....will his over the top obsession push her away? Or will their past traumas bring them closer together?
I thoroughly enjoyed this story and I'll definitely be reading the other Semyonov brothers books.
Always Salty is a perfect ending to LLV’s Bratva series. We finally get Dima AND Keely’s story and it’s everything and much more! I don’t know about you but Always Salty jumped to the front of the line as my favorite in this series and it’s all because of Dima. He’s quiet, mysterious, and all about Keely! And Keely who is so brave and strong is PERFECT with Dima. I’m so sad for this series to end but I know we will see them pop up in future books. Now I can’t wait to meet all the new characters!
This is the fourth book in this awesome series, and this is Keely and Dima’s story. Doing a favor for his brother, Dima crosses paths with Keely, and he is instantly obsessed with her. Keely finds herself the target of a stalker, and Dima will do whatever he must to protect and keep her safe. This is a well written easy to read, action packed story, with family, friendships, emotions, obsession, soulmates, healing, humor, witty banter, and love, which leads to an entertaining, and unpredictable, addictive page turner. I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
Oh, Dima gets his story told in this book. What a story it is! Why is he stalking someone? Who is it? Oh my gosh, this romance was so suspenseful. There was much ado about embezzlement, FBI agents, stalking and stalkers, kidnapping, family, and frame-up jobs that ruined lives. Why was all this done, and by whom? Boy howdy! I LOVE Dima!!! The way he says, "Watch me." had me shivering. The CDS (Cat Distribution System) was in full swing in this book! Read and see what happens and who wins Dima's heart.
We now have the fourth book and just like that, this awesome series is finished. It's a bit bittersweet as I'm not ready to let this group go (who am I kidding I know we will see them again), but still this was LLV's first dive into the mafia trope and once again has proven that she can write anything and make it amazing! Dima and Keely gave us such a great story, I just felt it wasn't long enough (ok that's a lie, I just wasn't ready to let go). I give the last story 5 stars, and this was a good way to tie up the whole series.
A brilliant finale for the Semyonov series. Dare I say, LLV saved the best for last. Dima has some serious stalker energy. He has his sights set on Keely and uses every bit of intelligence, tech or plain old eavesdropping to use to his advantage. Dima has some neurodiverse tendencies. He is obsessive and OTT protective. He thinks nothing of killing for a women he has claimed (but she doesn't necessarily know this yet).
This is one of those perfect combinations where both characters bring a little brokenness and trauma to the relationship. But together they just work. No judgement Just an exciting, tense at times, and steamy love story. They don't get together in the most conventional of ways. But they are a perfect fit. Filling the space created by abuse, trauma and neglect.
A perfect ending with plenty of hints for what may come in the new series set amid this same world.
Dima’s story was the perfect ending for this series.
The military has done a number on Dima. So normal day life isn't normal for him. He’s protective, caring, but also obsessive and wouldn’t think twice about unaliving someone.
While helping his brother on a job, he encounters Keely. He is totally captivated by her. She’s like a light in his darkness and he has to have her. Will she feel the same?
Semyonov Bratva series has been amazing. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed each and every book. I’ve adored all the characters and I’m so looking forward to whatever comes next by this author. This series is definitely going on my re-read pile.
Exquisitely captivating and utterly gratifying story. Dima and Keely are both a little broken but found their safe harbor in one another. Their meeting was rare but they develop a deeply intoxicating connection that had me swooning and blushing at the same time. Their love story was beautiful in the most intense and raw way. I enjoyed every single second of the adventure then embarked on.
I’m so bummed seeing the Semyonov siblings series come to an end, but Dima’s book goes out with a bang!! Upon seen Keely, Dima was taken with her. Once Keely meets Dima, she’s head over heels also. They fit together perfectly because of their brokenness. Dima is over the top protective of Keely, but she protects him in her own way. I just love these two together!! I can’t wait to see what this author brings us next!