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Semyonov Bratva #1
Stay Toxic
There was right, there was wrong, and then there was the in-between.
The place where normal people reside, understanding that there are two sides to every coin. People that do bad things for good reasons. People that do bad things for bad reasons.
First, I knew that Shasha Semyonov was a bad man. One that did bad things for bad reasons. That didn’t mean that I was rational when it came to him.
He was toxic to my health, yet I wanted him anyway.
They say the first step to healing is admitting when you have a problem.
My problem happened to be six feet two inches tall, two hundred and twenty pounds, and bearded to perfection.
Oh, and he was also the scariest guy I knew.
Meanwhile, I was the laughingstock of the city.
The woman who was cheated on by her boyfriend with her best friend, and it was captured live while a band played in the background, perfectly accenting the humiliating video.
There was no way that Shasha Semyonov would notice me.
Right?
Wrong.
I’d definitely been noticed.
The place where normal people reside, understanding that there are two sides to every coin. People that do bad things for good reasons. People that do bad things for bad reasons.
First, I knew that Shasha Semyonov was a bad man. One that did bad things for bad reasons. That didn’t mean that I was rational when it came to him.
He was toxic to my health, yet I wanted him anyway.
They say the first step to healing is admitting when you have a problem.
My problem happened to be six feet two inches tall, two hundred and twenty pounds, and bearded to perfection.
Oh, and he was also the scariest guy I knew.
Meanwhile, I was the laughingstock of the city.
The woman who was cheated on by her boyfriend with her best friend, and it was captured live while a band played in the background, perfectly accenting the humiliating video.
There was no way that Shasha Semyonov would notice me.
Right?
Wrong.
I’d definitely been noticed.
252 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 7, 2025
187 people are currently reading
610 people want to read
About the author
Lani Lynn Vale
169 books7,286 followersLani 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.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 172 reviews
January 8, 2025
This is the start of a new series for LLV.This time, she forays into the mafia genre,the Russian Bratva to be exact.
Sasha and Brecken's book.
I would say this is Bratva lite with not much substance and on the insta everything side,but as a mafia trope,not quite there yet.
I am interested in the other siblings' stories,so let's see how they pan out.
I did like the epilogue.
Sasha and Brecken's book.
I would say this is Bratva lite with not much substance and on the insta everything side,but as a mafia trope,not quite there yet.
I am interested in the other siblings' stories,so let's see how they pan out.
I did like the epilogue.
January 23, 2025
Brecken and Shasha are the epitome of characters I love to read about.
December 29, 2024
I've been looking forward to Shasha's book since we met him!
Well the whole Semyonov family really and it didn't disappoint!
Shasha is so grumpy and dangerous but that made me love him all the more!
Breckan was hilarious, she literally strong armed her way into Shasha's life and didn't take no for an answer!
I'm so excited for the rest of the series!
Well the whole Semyonov family really and it didn't disappoint!
Shasha is so grumpy and dangerous but that made me love him all the more!
Breckan was hilarious, she literally strong armed her way into Shasha's life and didn't take no for an answer!
I'm so excited for the rest of the series!
November 14, 2025
Este libro se sintió tan random en todo sentido... Igual me gusto 💅🏻
La vida de Brecken y Shasha se une cuando la bibliotecaria del colegio donde trabaja Brecken quién recibía maltratos de parte de su marido muere en un extraño accidente, y ella comienza a investigar lo sucedido porque sabía que ella estaba embarazada y quería saber que pasó con su bebé.
Shasha es una bandera roja enorme el literalmente no conoce que es la moral y al principio se negaba tener una mujer para ser su esposa porque su vida siendo lider de la Bratva la ponía en peligro, cosa que cambia cuando conoce a Brecken quién paso por una ruptura amorosa muy grande y para ayudarla a que su ex deje de acosarla la besa sin saber que una vez que ella entrara en su vida nada los separaría.
Ame a Brecken jajajaja me reí mucho con su personaje y la manera en la que siempre se salía con la suya con tal de estar con Shasha porque ella sabía que el era peligroso se lo advirtieron sus hermanos y el propio Shasha y a ella no le importo y decidió hacer de todo para que el aceptara que estarían juntos. Ellos eran el uno para el otro y ambos tenían una relación extrañamente obsesiva dónde querían estar juntos sin importar las consecuencias, y en este caso la que más insistió fue ella y era tierno como el lo aceptaba sin quejas ♥️
En fin me gustoooo
La vida de Brecken y Shasha se une cuando la bibliotecaria del colegio donde trabaja Brecken quién recibía maltratos de parte de su marido muere en un extraño accidente, y ella comienza a investigar lo sucedido porque sabía que ella estaba embarazada y quería saber que pasó con su bebé.
Shasha es una bandera roja enorme el literalmente no conoce que es la moral y al principio se negaba tener una mujer para ser su esposa porque su vida siendo lider de la Bratva la ponía en peligro, cosa que cambia cuando conoce a Brecken quién paso por una ruptura amorosa muy grande y para ayudarla a que su ex deje de acosarla la besa sin saber que una vez que ella entrara en su vida nada los separaría.
Ame a Brecken jajajaja me reí mucho con su personaje y la manera en la que siempre se salía con la suya con tal de estar con Shasha porque ella sabía que el era peligroso se lo advirtieron sus hermanos y el propio Shasha y a ella no le importo y decidió hacer de todo para que el aceptara que estarían juntos. Ellos eran el uno para el otro y ambos tenían una relación extrañamente obsesiva dónde querían estar juntos sin importar las consecuencias, y en este caso la que más insistió fue ella y era tierno como el lo aceptaba sin quejas ♥️
En fin me gustoooo
January 7, 2025
5 Stars
My first book of the new year, and no better book than an LLV book!
I have been waiting for this series since the Semyonov’s were introduced in Maven’s book as their long lost sister.
Shasha is the head of Semyonov Bratva and is not a man that most people want to cross or make mad, but I absolutely loved the way Brecken just insinuated herself into his life and wouldn’t take no for an answer. It takes a strong woman to deal with all the crap that she’s been dealt in life, but to also be a part of Shasha’s world. I loved all the new characters we’re introduced to and can’t wait for more of this series.
Angela - Alphas Do It Better Book Blog
My first book of the new year, and no better book than an LLV book!
I have been waiting for this series since the Semyonov’s were introduced in Maven’s book as their long lost sister.
Shasha is the head of Semyonov Bratva and is not a man that most people want to cross or make mad, but I absolutely loved the way Brecken just insinuated herself into his life and wouldn’t take no for an answer. It takes a strong woman to deal with all the crap that she’s been dealt in life, but to also be a part of Shasha’s world. I loved all the new characters we’re introduced to and can’t wait for more of this series.
Angela - Alphas Do It Better Book Blog
January 11, 2025
Brecken thought she had her life planned out she was engaged and surrounded by loving friends and family. Then things take a horrible turn in such a way that everybody and their brother knows what happened with her now ex. Brecken doesn't expect to kind of befriend Shasha Semyonov who helps her in a moment she was not expecting.
Shasha would love nothing more to explore life with Brecken, but he is a dangerous man who would only make Brecken a target. He did not expect the stubborn woman to not heed his warnings though and he is finally at a breaking point deciding he is going to pursue Brecken. The only problem in his path though is an ex who can't take the hint but Shasha will do what he has to do to keep Brecken safely by his side, hopefully it is not too late.
Wow, just wow. What a fantastic read and kick off to series. Brecken is a hoot and I liked that she is just out there, she lets it all hang out. What a wonderful couple, wanted more definitely more and hope the siblings all get their own books.
Shasha would love nothing more to explore life with Brecken, but he is a dangerous man who would only make Brecken a target. He did not expect the stubborn woman to not heed his warnings though and he is finally at a breaking point deciding he is going to pursue Brecken. The only problem in his path though is an ex who can't take the hint but Shasha will do what he has to do to keep Brecken safely by his side, hopefully it is not too late.
Wow, just wow. What a fantastic read and kick off to series. Brecken is a hoot and I liked that she is just out there, she lets it all hang out. What a wonderful couple, wanted more definitely more and hope the siblings all get their own books.
March 26, 2025
2.5 stars
Maybe because this is a spin off of a spin off of a spin off, 'cause damn, there was a lot of name droppings here. Not that new-reader friendly. I felt left out most of the time. And that's my fault, I know. But I wish the plot could be centered on our main couple and not the other fifty side characters in this one.
With that said, the plot itself, umm... how should I say this, was very paper-thin. Like, this could be a novella. And nothing would be lost.
BUT, I did enjoy myself sometimes.. There were times when I really enjoyed their dynamic. I have a thing for chasing female leads and reluctant but hopelessly in love male leads. And the humour was pretty good. The tone is light-hearted. I believe I would fully enjoy the writing if I was in the right head space for it.
Anyhow, I fell in a middle with this once.
Maybe because this is a spin off of a spin off of a spin off, 'cause damn, there was a lot of name droppings here. Not that new-reader friendly. I felt left out most of the time. And that's my fault, I know. But I wish the plot could be centered on our main couple and not the other fifty side characters in this one.
With that said, the plot itself, umm... how should I say this, was very paper-thin. Like, this could be a novella. And nothing would be lost.
BUT, I did enjoy myself sometimes.. There were times when I really enjoyed their dynamic. I have a thing for chasing female leads and reluctant but hopelessly in love male leads. And the humour was pretty good. The tone is light-hearted. I believe I would fully enjoy the writing if I was in the right head space for it.
Anyhow, I fell in a middle with this once.
January 8, 2025
She done it again
It's a good book, anything by lani is but the 1 thing that irritated me was the incorrect information regarding dairy intolerance, sorry if your gonna write about something write it correctly. Eggs are not dairy. Allergies and intolerance are rarely brought to life in books and when they are it's kinda annoying when they are incorrectly represented.
It's a good book, anything by lani is but the 1 thing that irritated me was the incorrect information regarding dairy intolerance, sorry if your gonna write about something write it correctly. Eggs are not dairy. Allergies and intolerance are rarely brought to life in books and when they are it's kinda annoying when they are incorrectly represented.
January 9, 2025
New year, new series, and new and old characters. What a way to start the year.
What's a little stalking, sloothing, and home invasion in the name of foreplay?..
Shasha does what Shasha wants regardless of the consequences. Now, does that mean he lives a free life? Nope. My man is bogged down in responsibility for more than just family. Oh, he's delightful, though. Grumpy, unapologetically blunt and with not one single care to give. But he is a giver, though... do with that what you will.
Brecken is a wrecking ball. That woman will get what she wants and be damnd the consequences. She's loyal, protective, kind, and all manner of quirky. She's relatable to most and just genuinely enjoyable to read. Plus, I'm all in for a woman who strong arms the man in the right direction.
These two are toxic but I loved it. The chemistry is immediate, the build up to them.. honestly I nearly combust. The banter is fantastic because they are so different it shouldn't work and yet it does.. perfectly.
As per lani served us with an abundance of great side characters I'm oh so curious about and would like right this damn minute. We also god cheeky visits off of older faces that haven't been around in a minute. Tiago and Addy.. I see you baby.
Loved this first addition to a shiny new series with endless possibilities. It's a little more towing that grey line than a lot of Lani's books, which serves the purpose, and I was here for it.
Now the depressive wait for the next book begins and let me tell you that is a sad fucking reality.
What's a little stalking, sloothing, and home invasion in the name of foreplay?..
Shasha does what Shasha wants regardless of the consequences. Now, does that mean he lives a free life? Nope. My man is bogged down in responsibility for more than just family. Oh, he's delightful, though. Grumpy, unapologetically blunt and with not one single care to give. But he is a giver, though... do with that what you will.
Brecken is a wrecking ball. That woman will get what she wants and be damnd the consequences. She's loyal, protective, kind, and all manner of quirky. She's relatable to most and just genuinely enjoyable to read. Plus, I'm all in for a woman who strong arms the man in the right direction.
These two are toxic but I loved it. The chemistry is immediate, the build up to them.. honestly I nearly combust. The banter is fantastic because they are so different it shouldn't work and yet it does.. perfectly.
As per lani served us with an abundance of great side characters I'm oh so curious about and would like right this damn minute. We also god cheeky visits off of older faces that haven't been around in a minute. Tiago and Addy.. I see you baby.
Loved this first addition to a shiny new series with endless possibilities. It's a little more towing that grey line than a lot of Lani's books, which serves the purpose, and I was here for it.
Now the depressive wait for the next book begins and let me tell you that is a sad fucking reality.
November 17, 2024
Squee!!! So excited about this new series! I loved the introduction to the Seymonov family (Family) in Maven's book, and was super excited they get a series.
Shasha & Brecken's story is exactly what I was looking for. We get a fast fall, with some resistance due to, ya know, Bratva things. 😄 We get some cameos. 💚 We get spice (🔥🌶🔥🌶) & banter & LOL moments.
And most of all, we get heart. My favorite thing about LLV stories, series, & connections is that they're so full of HEART. Love of family, both birth & found. Shasha is the head of their Bratva chapter, and has had to be dark & do dark things, but his highest priority is always his family.
Brecken is a lot of fun. She's unbothered by Shasha's darkness & appreciates his protective nature. She fits right in! As do her brothers... future stories? Perhaps... 😁
😍😍😍
Shasha & Brecken's story is exactly what I was looking for. We get a fast fall, with some resistance due to, ya know, Bratva things. 😄 We get some cameos. 💚 We get spice (🔥🌶🔥🌶) & banter & LOL moments.
And most of all, we get heart. My favorite thing about LLV stories, series, & connections is that they're so full of HEART. Love of family, both birth & found. Shasha is the head of their Bratva chapter, and has had to be dark & do dark things, but his highest priority is always his family.
Brecken is a lot of fun. She's unbothered by Shasha's darkness & appreciates his protective nature. She fits right in! As do her brothers... future stories? Perhaps... 😁
😍😍😍
January 7, 2025
Lani Lynn Vale kicks off her gripping new Mafia romance series, Semyonov Bratva, with Stay Toxic—a dark and intense story that lives up to its name. This book delivers a dangerous, all-consuming romance that perfectly captures the volatile and chaotic world of the Semyonov Bratva.
Shasha Semyonov, the enigmatic and commanding leader of the Bratva, exudes an air of danger and mystery. But his world is flipped upside down when he meets Bracken, a fiery and resilient teacher who is navigating life after the ultimate betrayal by her boyfriend and best friend. Despite her heartbreak, Bracken holds her head high, refusing to let her past define her. What she doesn’t expect is the electrifying chemistry she shares with the dark and dangerous Shasha.
The romance between Shasha and Bracken is steamy and intense, pulling readers into a whirlwind of passion and suspense. The perfectly balanced suspense element intertwines their lives even further, creating a storyline that is equal parts thrilling and romantic. Vale sprinkles in her trademark banter, adding moments of levity to this otherwise dark and gripping tale.
Stay Toxic is the explosive start to what promises to be a standout Mafia romance series. With its compelling characters, sizzling chemistry, and suspenseful twists, Lani Lynn Vale ensures readers will be hooked from the very first page. Fans of dark, high-stakes romance won’t want to miss this one!
Shasha Semyonov, the enigmatic and commanding leader of the Bratva, exudes an air of danger and mystery. But his world is flipped upside down when he meets Bracken, a fiery and resilient teacher who is navigating life after the ultimate betrayal by her boyfriend and best friend. Despite her heartbreak, Bracken holds her head high, refusing to let her past define her. What she doesn’t expect is the electrifying chemistry she shares with the dark and dangerous Shasha.
The romance between Shasha and Bracken is steamy and intense, pulling readers into a whirlwind of passion and suspense. The perfectly balanced suspense element intertwines their lives even further, creating a storyline that is equal parts thrilling and romantic. Vale sprinkles in her trademark banter, adding moments of levity to this otherwise dark and gripping tale.
Stay Toxic is the explosive start to what promises to be a standout Mafia romance series. With its compelling characters, sizzling chemistry, and suspenseful twists, Lani Lynn Vale ensures readers will be hooked from the very first page. Fans of dark, high-stakes romance won’t want to miss this one!
January 18, 2025
I loved this one. It was amazing. Sexy and so much fun. I can't wait for the next book to come out. I love this family.
March 31, 2025
Ugh, I wanted to love this!! After reading about her blood family, I was looking forward to this. But it just didn't hit. :/
June 7, 2025
Kitabı birileri fazla şişirmiş. Bir kaç yer dışında yüzeysel bir kitaptı. İlk ve ikinci yarısı sanki başka yazar tarafından yazılmış gibi.
January 20, 2026
Lagom bra bok, ingen jätte plot twist… men älskade alla karaktärer, önskade bara att de fanns mer djup i storyn
January 6, 2025
Lani has done it again with this first book in the Semyonov mafia series!! Mafia books aren’t really my thing but Lani has me hooked from start to finish. Shasha and Brecken’s story has everything you’ve come to love with one of Lani’s stories. From the off the charts chemistry between the characters to the twists & turns in the story, to the humor and add in the crazy family moments. Looking forward to the next book in the series!
January 9, 2025
Unhinged.
The characters, the names, the sex scenes (the hotel one?!).
But... somehow enjoyable at the same time.
The characters, the names, the sex scenes (the hotel one?!).
But... somehow enjoyable at the same time.
January 13, 2025
This was….not good. I decided to give this author another try because I have loved her in the past but I just think that she isn’t for me anymore.
Brecken is a high school teacher. She meets and falls for a mafia boss in her town. The rest is kind of twisty turny and too much to explain.
The beginning of the book is the typical old people fist shaking at that “younger generation” being lazy and not wanting to work. And it felt like it went on for a while. It was just kind of eye roll inducing. It also kind of set the tone for the book.
Then the relationship was just kind of terrible. For example, the first time they have sex he just kind of shoves it in like “surprise” in a scenario that did not seem like it was leading to sex. It was just too much and not sexy at all. It also defines how their relationship progresses too because it seems like each stage is just out of the blue.
Not for me. Would not read again.
Brecken is a high school teacher. She meets and falls for a mafia boss in her town. The rest is kind of twisty turny and too much to explain.
The beginning of the book is the typical old people fist shaking at that “younger generation” being lazy and not wanting to work. And it felt like it went on for a while. It was just kind of eye roll inducing. It also kind of set the tone for the book.
Then the relationship was just kind of terrible. For example, the first time they have sex he just kind of shoves it in like “surprise” in a scenario that did not seem like it was leading to sex. It was just too much and not sexy at all. It also defines how their relationship progresses too because it seems like each stage is just out of the blue.
Not for me. Would not read again.
January 26, 2025
🇫🇷French & English reviews🇬🇧
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Genre & Tropes : Contempo Romance x Some suspense plot x Mafia romance x Spicy scenes
Attention, si vous aimez les romances mafia, ici ce n'est pas du tout de la dark romance et tout reste très "gentil" !
Le premier tome d'une romance mafia que j'ai lu avec beaucoup de plaisir !
Je suis une grande fan des livres de Lani Lynn Vale donc j'avais HYPER hâte de lire sa nouvelle série, surtout vu les aperçus qu'on avait eu de la famille Semyonov dans la série avec les frères Carter !
En plus, l'héroïne qui est une prof d'histoire intolérante au lactose ... J'ai une amie prof d'histoire qui est intolérante au lactose (mais pas de mafieux sexy ><)
J'ai beaucoup apprécié ma lecture : la romance était sexy et marrante (j'adore quand Brecken le "harcèle" en le suivant partout en voiture xD), l'intrigue était intéressante (je m'attendais tellement pas à la réaction de son ex à la fin !!) et j'ai adoré les personnages !!
Quelques petits regrets :
- l'histoire avec l'intolérance au lactose était un peu étrange ... Ayant une amie qui est intolérante au lactose, je sais que c'est bien plus facile aujourd'hui de manger des trucs sans lactose et j'ai trouvé ça un peu ridicule que l'héroïne souffre inutilement en mangeant des aliments qu'elle aurait pu facilement éviter ... Après peut-être que c'est culturel et qu'en France c'est plus facile à gérer qu'aux Etats-Unis ?
- j'aurais voulu que l'intrigue aille plus loin avec l'ex et l'ex meilleure amie, peut-être avec plus de rebondissements ...
- la scène anatomiquement bizarre dans le café à Houston (j'ai dû m'arrêter de lire tellement je trouvais ça hilarant xD)
Bref, une romance mafieuse à dévorer sans modération ! J'a hyper hâte de lire les prochains tomes !
PS : j'espère vraiment qu'on aura des livres avec la famille de Brecken parce que je suis hyper curieuse !
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Be careful, if you like mafia romances, here it's not a dark romance and everything is very "nice" !
The first book of a mafia romance series that I read with great pleasure !
I am a big fan of Lani Lynn Vale's books so I was SUPER eager to read her new series, especially given the glimpses we had of the Semyonov family in the series with the Carter brothers !
Also, the heroine who is a lactose intolerant history teacher... I have a history teacher friend who is lactose intolerant (but not a sexy mobster ><)
I really enjoyed my reading : the romance was sexy and funny (I love when Brecken "harassed" him by following him everywhere in her car xD), the plot was interesting (I really didn't expect her ex's reaction at the end !!) and I loved the characters !!
A few small regrets :
- the story with lactose intolerance was a bit strange ... Having a friend who is lactose intolerant, I know that it is much easier today to eat lactose-free things and I found it a bit ridiculous that the heroine suffers unnecessarily by eating foods that she could have easily avoided ... But maybe it is cultural and that in France it is easier to manage than in the United States ?
- I would have liked the plot to go further with the ex and the ex best friend, maybe with more twists ...
- the anatomically bizarre scene in the cafe in Houston (I had to stop reading because I found it so hilarious xD)
In short, a mafia romance to devour without moderation ! I can't wait to read the next books !
PS : I really hope we'll have books with Brecken's family too because I'm super curious !
[image error]
Genre & Tropes : Contempo Romance x Some suspense plot x Mafia romance x Spicy scenes
Attention, si vous aimez les romances mafia, ici ce n'est pas du tout de la dark romance et tout reste très "gentil" !
Le premier tome d'une romance mafia que j'ai lu avec beaucoup de plaisir !
Je suis une grande fan des livres de Lani Lynn Vale donc j'avais HYPER hâte de lire sa nouvelle série, surtout vu les aperçus qu'on avait eu de la famille Semyonov dans la série avec les frères Carter !
En plus, l'héroïne qui est une prof d'histoire intolérante au lactose ... J'ai une amie prof d'histoire qui est intolérante au lactose (mais pas de mafieux sexy ><)
J'ai beaucoup apprécié ma lecture : la romance était sexy et marrante (j'adore quand Brecken le "harcèle" en le suivant partout en voiture xD), l'intrigue était intéressante (je m'attendais tellement pas à la réaction de son ex à la fin !!) et j'ai adoré les personnages !!
Quelques petits regrets :
- l'histoire avec l'intolérance au lactose était un peu étrange ... Ayant une amie qui est intolérante au lactose, je sais que c'est bien plus facile aujourd'hui de manger des trucs sans lactose et j'ai trouvé ça un peu ridicule que l'héroïne souffre inutilement en mangeant des aliments qu'elle aurait pu facilement éviter ... Après peut-être que c'est culturel et qu'en France c'est plus facile à gérer qu'aux Etats-Unis ?
- j'aurais voulu que l'intrigue aille plus loin avec l'ex et l'ex meilleure amie, peut-être avec plus de rebondissements ...
- la scène anatomiquement bizarre dans le café à Houston (j'ai dû m'arrêter de lire tellement je trouvais ça hilarant xD)
Bref, une romance mafieuse à dévorer sans modération ! J'a hyper hâte de lire les prochains tomes !
PS : j'espère vraiment qu'on aura des livres avec la famille de Brecken parce que je suis hyper curieuse !
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Be careful, if you like mafia romances, here it's not a dark romance and everything is very "nice" !
The first book of a mafia romance series that I read with great pleasure !
I am a big fan of Lani Lynn Vale's books so I was SUPER eager to read her new series, especially given the glimpses we had of the Semyonov family in the series with the Carter brothers !
Also, the heroine who is a lactose intolerant history teacher... I have a history teacher friend who is lactose intolerant (but not a sexy mobster ><)
I really enjoyed my reading : the romance was sexy and funny (I love when Brecken "harassed" him by following him everywhere in her car xD), the plot was interesting (I really didn't expect her ex's reaction at the end !!) and I loved the characters !!
A few small regrets :
- the story with lactose intolerance was a bit strange ... Having a friend who is lactose intolerant, I know that it is much easier today to eat lactose-free things and I found it a bit ridiculous that the heroine suffers unnecessarily by eating foods that she could have easily avoided ... But maybe it is cultural and that in France it is easier to manage than in the United States ?
- I would have liked the plot to go further with the ex and the ex best friend, maybe with more twists ...
- the anatomically bizarre scene in the cafe in Houston (I had to stop reading because I found it so hilarious xD)
In short, a mafia romance to devour without moderation ! I can't wait to read the next books !
PS : I really hope we'll have books with Brecken's family too because I'm super curious !
January 7, 2025
Head of the Bratva, Shasha lives a life of danger and takes care of everyone and everything around him . . . no matter the cost. He knows a relationship in his line of work is dangerous . . . especially since his baby sister had been kidnapped and his own parents had been killed while searching for her. But, there is something about Brecken that he can’t ignore. And the more they run into each other, the less he wants to ignore it.
Brecken isn’t loving that her ex fiance and ex best friend were caught cheating on a live stream that was supposed to be a senior prank. She’s also searching for answers about a work friend that just happens to have a possible connection to Shasha. The more she learns about him, the less she seems to care that he’s a bad guy that sometimes does bad things. She knows he’d never do anything to hurt her even though she hardly knows him. But, once Brecken is threatened, all bets are off and nothing will keep Shasha from her now.
Brecken was amazing. I loved that she heard her brothers’ advice about Shasha and even heard his own advice about staying away, and didn’t care at all! She knew what she wanted. I also adored her relationship with her students and how easily she fell into Semyonov family. And, Shasha . . . just wow! He is a mafia man. But, he has clear lines he will not cross . . . even if he is a bit of a stalker when it comes to Brecken. He adores his family. And, he’s the best mix of soft when it comes to those he cares about and hard when it comes to his business and his family’s protection and it’s awesome!
I am all in with this new series!!!! Lani doing mafia is the absolute best. Brecken’s family is a hoot and I hope we see more of them. And, I know that the rest of the Semyonov’s will be a real treat! This book was a real whirlwind and introduced tons of new characters and possible storylines / spinoffs and I could not be more excited for this new adventure! 5 stars!
Brecken isn’t loving that her ex fiance and ex best friend were caught cheating on a live stream that was supposed to be a senior prank. She’s also searching for answers about a work friend that just happens to have a possible connection to Shasha. The more she learns about him, the less she seems to care that he’s a bad guy that sometimes does bad things. She knows he’d never do anything to hurt her even though she hardly knows him. But, once Brecken is threatened, all bets are off and nothing will keep Shasha from her now.
Brecken was amazing. I loved that she heard her brothers’ advice about Shasha and even heard his own advice about staying away, and didn’t care at all! She knew what she wanted. I also adored her relationship with her students and how easily she fell into Semyonov family. And, Shasha . . . just wow! He is a mafia man. But, he has clear lines he will not cross . . . even if he is a bit of a stalker when it comes to Brecken. He adores his family. And, he’s the best mix of soft when it comes to those he cares about and hard when it comes to his business and his family’s protection and it’s awesome!
I am all in with this new series!!!! Lani doing mafia is the absolute best. Brecken’s family is a hoot and I hope we see more of them. And, I know that the rest of the Semyonov’s will be a real treat! This book was a real whirlwind and introduced tons of new characters and possible storylines / spinoffs and I could not be more excited for this new adventure! 5 stars!
January 7, 2025
Dangerous and delectably tempting! Lani Lynn Vale is bringing a familiar face to life as a new series kicks off with Maven's found family the Semyonov Bratva and I loved every minute of it! The groundwork was already laid if you're familiar with Vale's most recent Carter Brothers series when Auden fell for Maven and we learned of her childhood kidnapping and reconciliation with her birth family. This series is bringing that family into the forefront and we're learning who they are. The plot was attention grabbing from the start and I already liked Shasha from seeing his interaction with Maven. He's large and in charge and yet has a soft spot for his family that no one sees ... ever. Watching him fall hard for a local teacher is rewarding and sentimental. I can't wait to see what this series holds in store for us! Great depth of danger lurking all around as we see the good girl fall for the bad boy to the delight of all. I want more depth into learning about his sibs but I'm sure some of that will come as the series builds. Overall, fast paced and very enjoyable!
Shasha is electrifying on the page. We already saw him be gentle with Maven even though we knew he had connections and held power, so watching him endear himself to Brecken was easy to believe and fun to watch. I really enjoy the heart he shows when no one is watching.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a cut throat hero who protects what is his without mercy, yet has a depth of warmth beneath for those he holds dear. I can't wait to see what his sibs have in store for us as this series develops!
Shasha is electrifying on the page. We already saw him be gentle with Maven even though we knew he had connections and held power, so watching him endear himself to Brecken was easy to believe and fun to watch. I really enjoy the heart he shows when no one is watching.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a cut throat hero who protects what is his without mercy, yet has a depth of warmth beneath for those he holds dear. I can't wait to see what his sibs have in store for us as this series develops!
January 9, 2025
I am not a stranger to Lani Lynn Vale books but this one just didn't click with me
Honestly, at about 2/3 in it was almost DNF. I just soldiered on because I sunk so much time into it.
My biggest problem with this book: the MMC being named SHasha. A typical russian/slavic name would be Sasha. The extra H drove me crazy. The entire book my eye twitched any time I read his name.
Now Brecken... the FMC.... she is weird. In the beginning of the book I'm already thinking she's crazy. Her friend is being abused and her best advice is find the most dangerous man in town to take care of your baby. Like.... straight up insanity. I can think of about 100 things I'd recommend someone before I went that route. Yes her ex is insane and powerful but come on.
And then more insanity. Spoilers ahead.
Idk... this book didn't read as sexy and edgy to me more just weird and insane. Also all the characters felt very flat. Very one dimensional. And even the plot was kinda meh. I was expecting more drama. More character development. More relationship development.
Honestly, at about 2/3 in it was almost DNF. I just soldiered on because I sunk so much time into it.
My biggest problem with this book: the MMC being named SHasha. A typical russian/slavic name would be Sasha. The extra H drove me crazy. The entire book my eye twitched any time I read his name.
Now Brecken... the FMC.... she is weird. In the beginning of the book I'm already thinking she's crazy. Her friend is being abused and her best advice is find the most dangerous man in town to take care of your baby. Like.... straight up insanity. I can think of about 100 things I'd recommend someone before I went that route. Yes her ex is insane and powerful but come on.
And then more insanity. Spoilers ahead.
Idk... this book didn't read as sexy and edgy to me more just weird and insane. Also all the characters felt very flat. Very one dimensional. And even the plot was kinda meh. I was expecting more drama. More character development. More relationship development.
January 7, 2025
I have been waiting for the Seymonov family since we first met them in Maven's book. Sasha was the perfect sibling to start with because he simply exudes power. As the head of the Bratva he is in contrast with the police/first responder heroes we are used to from Lani Lynn Vale. However, let me tell you that never has the mafia looked so appealing. Just like LLV made me want to join the circus, she has made the mafia look that good.
Sasha has a goodness in him that you can easily see. Maven's kidnapping and his parents being killed affected him and shaped the man he is. He is certainly overprotective but it is ingrained in him. He doesn't want his lifestyle to affect those he loves. Which is why he continually warns Brecken away. Of course if he needs to stalk her to ensure she is safe that is altogether different.
Brecken is unbothered by the warnings or his career choices. She is drawn to Sasha from the moment she sees him and she needs some answers that only he can provide. She needs information of her coworker as does the coworker's crazy husband. When Brecken gets threaded Sasha forgets all the warnings he gave.
I loved seeing more of not only Sasha's family but also Brecken's. Her brothers are so funny and I loved that she had this big crazy family. I feel like it prepared her for the Seymonov's better.
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Thank you Lani Lynn Vale and Give Me Books Promotions for providing me with an ARC of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
Sasha has a goodness in him that you can easily see. Maven's kidnapping and his parents being killed affected him and shaped the man he is. He is certainly overprotective but it is ingrained in him. He doesn't want his lifestyle to affect those he loves. Which is why he continually warns Brecken away. Of course if he needs to stalk her to ensure she is safe that is altogether different.
Brecken is unbothered by the warnings or his career choices. She is drawn to Sasha from the moment she sees him and she needs some answers that only he can provide. She needs information of her coworker as does the coworker's crazy husband. When Brecken gets threaded Sasha forgets all the warnings he gave.
I loved seeing more of not only Sasha's family but also Brecken's. Her brothers are so funny and I loved that she had this big crazy family. I feel like it prepared her for the Seymonov's better.
_________
Thank you Lani Lynn Vale and Give Me Books Promotions for providing me with an ARC of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
January 1, 2025
So excited for this new series! While this series is new for LLV, the characters are familiar, and I love that she’s been doing this lately with building on the different series’ that she’s been completing – it makes these characters familiar while also being new! Shasha runs the family business, which is also the mafia essentially, and he meets his match in a woman that isn’t scared of the family nor the danger of his job. Brecken’s world gets turned upside down when she finds out on a very public platform that her boyfriend and best friend are involved, not to mention that they end up back at work together and he tries to get her back. She is very unapologetically herself and doesn’t care about her ex or her ex-best friend, and even Shasha recognizes that her ex isn’t giving up or letting down. I love that Shasha really fought things between him and Brecken until he couldn’t deny things any longer, and I also love that she really molded into his family and wasn’t scared of them or backed down. She truly is his perfect match. I can’t wait to see what happens with the rest of these siblings!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
January 8, 2025
Mafia reads may not be my go-to, but if Lani writes it, I'm going to read it, and, no surprise, I am already in love with the Semyenovs.
As I've said before, I am just amazed at Lani's ability to create worlds, characters, and storylines that continue to be fresh and entertaining, and STAY TOXIC shows that she is still at the top of her game. Having met the Semyenov family as part of Maven's story in the Carter Brothers series, I was hoping that they were going to get their very own books, and I could not be happier that Lani is doing just that. Shasha and Brecken make for a great entry into this world, and I now can't wait to see what is in store for the rest of these characters.
One of the things that I like most about Lani's books is how she ties worlds together. It was nice to catch up with Maven, Auden, and their kids, and see how their lives are tied to the Semyenovs, and to be introduced to some new characters that I am hoping will stay the course and get their stories, too.
Whether you're a longtime fan of Lani's books, or this is your first time reading her, you will love this book. And while there is tie-in to the prior series, you can absolutely read the Semyonovs all on their own (although once you start, you're going to want to go back and read ALL of the books!). Either way, jump in and enjoy, and get ready for more passion, action, and fun the way that only Lani can write it. Happy reading! ❤️
January 4, 2025
Stay Toxic by Lani Lynn Vale is book one in the new series, Semyonov Bratva. The story focuses on Sasha and Brecken. Sasha is the pakhan of the bratva and although portrayed as someone not to mess with, underneath he is caring, strong, sweet and stubborn, especially when it comes to Brecken and looking after her. When Brecken tries to help a friend, it puts her in the crosshairs of not only her ex-fiancé and a former best friend, but also her friend’s ex-husband who will do anything to find his wife.
I loved how strong Brecken was, how sassy and sweet she was and how she wouldn’t put up with rubbish from anyone, especially after all that she has been through. She has an instant attraction to Sasha and even though she knows that he’s dangerous, there is just something about him that pulls her towards him.
This was a good start to a new series with lots of drama and a touch of spice added into the mix. I can’t wait to see what else this series has to offer.
ARC received for a fair, honest and sometimes long review. All opinions are my own. 😊
More of my reviews can be found on my blog: http://thehotmesslibrary.blogspot.com
I loved how strong Brecken was, how sassy and sweet she was and how she wouldn’t put up with rubbish from anyone, especially after all that she has been through. She has an instant attraction to Sasha and even though she knows that he’s dangerous, there is just something about him that pulls her towards him.
This was a good start to a new series with lots of drama and a touch of spice added into the mix. I can’t wait to see what else this series has to offer.
ARC received for a fair, honest and sometimes long review. All opinions are my own. 😊
More of my reviews can be found on my blog: http://thehotmesslibrary.blogspot.com
January 8, 2025
I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.
This is the first book in The Semyonov Bratva Series. This is the story of Brecken and Shahsa. If you have read the Carter Brothers Series then you know that Maven discovered that when Auden was kidnapped as a childhood and reunited with her birth family? The Semyonov's and we are getting their stories. We meet Shasha in this first book. This guy is about larger than life and he really knows how to take charge. But when it comes to his family he has a huge soft spot that no one ever sees. When he meets Brecken he knows that he is in trouble. She is a school teacher and is coming out a relationship where her boyfriend cheated on her with her best friends. To make matters worse someone caught it all on a video. She might be attracted to Shahsa but she thinks that a man like him would never notice a girl like her. I loved reading their story. It will have you swooning at times. There is a little of everything Chemistry, passion, and danger. I love these two together and I can't wait to read the next book in this series.
This is the first book in The Semyonov Bratva Series. This is the story of Brecken and Shahsa. If you have read the Carter Brothers Series then you know that Maven discovered that when Auden was kidnapped as a childhood and reunited with her birth family? The Semyonov's and we are getting their stories. We meet Shasha in this first book. This guy is about larger than life and he really knows how to take charge. But when it comes to his family he has a huge soft spot that no one ever sees. When he meets Brecken he knows that he is in trouble. She is a school teacher and is coming out a relationship where her boyfriend cheated on her with her best friends. To make matters worse someone caught it all on a video. She might be attracted to Shahsa but she thinks that a man like him would never notice a girl like her. I loved reading their story. It will have you swooning at times. There is a little of everything Chemistry, passion, and danger. I love these two together and I can't wait to read the next book in this series.
January 17, 2025
He's not in the market for an HEA, but fate has other ideas for Shasha Semyonov. One look and he can't seem to pass up on the beauty he sees in the coffee shop.
Brecken is the laughing stock of the city. Her ex's exploits caught on camera and seen by so many people was unavoidable. Now she has to tell her brothers what happened and convince them not to take matters into their own hands.
I loved Shasha's book and I love Shasha and Brecken. LLV has a wonderful way with interconnecting her books from series to series and they are always great reads. I love her characters as well as the stories, and you usually find shenanigans throughout the books. I love the quotes/thoughts/texts at the start of each chapter and I am always up for one-clicking LLV's books when she has a new out. Stay Toxic was a great start to a new series and a wonderful continuation with past characters. LLV has a way of working her characters into a new series with just enough to update you on the character and show the interactions between the series. I love her writing and can't wait for the next book in the Semyonov Bratva to come out. I devoured this book in one day.
Brecken is the laughing stock of the city. Her ex's exploits caught on camera and seen by so many people was unavoidable. Now she has to tell her brothers what happened and convince them not to take matters into their own hands.
I loved Shasha's book and I love Shasha and Brecken. LLV has a wonderful way with interconnecting her books from series to series and they are always great reads. I love her characters as well as the stories, and you usually find shenanigans throughout the books. I love the quotes/thoughts/texts at the start of each chapter and I am always up for one-clicking LLV's books when she has a new out. Stay Toxic was a great start to a new series and a wonderful continuation with past characters. LLV has a way of working her characters into a new series with just enough to update you on the character and show the interactions between the series. I love her writing and can't wait for the next book in the Semyonov Bratva to come out. I devoured this book in one day.
January 12, 2025
5 He Decides Stars!!
I’m not quite sure how she continually does it, but LLV has started another new series off with a proverbial bang and this family is bad a$$! The head of the family Shasha is everything you’d expect from the Bratva leader with the exception of the soft spot he has for Brecken Sweat!
This is a fast moving story and we learn a lot about his family and how everything works in this world. His life is turned topsy when Brecken unknowingly comes into it and little did she know that her life was going to change dramatically in every way possible.
The connection between our H/h is unmatched and is a little scary for both of them I think and one of them does everything they can to prevent the other from becoming important in so many ways. There’s a chemistry between Shasha and Brecken that is literally combustible. When they’re together, they do everything they can to shutoff the outside world, but given who Shasha is, that’s near to impossible and Brecken is along for the ride!
I love how we get to know not only Brecken’s family, but we are also introduced to the people in The Bratva that encircle Shasha and there’s so much power that I was entranced with how he conducted business. I for one am not sad with some of the outcomes from other’s actions that put Brecken in danger and the man who’s come to love her wasn’t going to allow anything to happen to her not matter what!
A phenomenal start to a new series and I can’t wait to see what’s next!!
I’m not quite sure how she continually does it, but LLV has started another new series off with a proverbial bang and this family is bad a$$! The head of the family Shasha is everything you’d expect from the Bratva leader with the exception of the soft spot he has for Brecken Sweat!
This is a fast moving story and we learn a lot about his family and how everything works in this world. His life is turned topsy when Brecken unknowingly comes into it and little did she know that her life was going to change dramatically in every way possible.
The connection between our H/h is unmatched and is a little scary for both of them I think and one of them does everything they can to prevent the other from becoming important in so many ways. There’s a chemistry between Shasha and Brecken that is literally combustible. When they’re together, they do everything they can to shutoff the outside world, but given who Shasha is, that’s near to impossible and Brecken is along for the ride!
I love how we get to know not only Brecken’s family, but we are also introduced to the people in The Bratva that encircle Shasha and there’s so much power that I was entranced with how he conducted business. I for one am not sad with some of the outcomes from other’s actions that put Brecken in danger and the man who’s come to love her wasn’t going to allow anything to happen to her not matter what!
A phenomenal start to a new series and I can’t wait to see what’s next!!
January 11, 2025
"If your love runs out, we can use mine...
.... I'll hotspot you"
We have been waiting so long for this Semyonov series, I kinda feel like we think we know them already...but we really don't and I love seeing the family dynamics, interactions and love. Here we have Shasha's book, he's the eldest, the head of the Semyonov Bratva and surrounded by secrets and shadows. But this book was not as dark as I expected it to be, Brecken brings a light into Shasha's world that he never expected, and he doesn't entirely know what to do with it. She is quirky, funny, sassy and determined - exactly what he needs. Don't get me wrong, we still have danger with a side of crazy, but this book was the complete opposite of what I expected and I LOVED it! Thank you Lani for once again turning our expectations on their head and surprising us, I cannot wait for the rest of the series and I really, really hope the Sweat siblings get a series too...please, please, please! The two families together are hilarious, so similar, yet also completely opposite at the same time, it's a fantastic dynamic.
.... I'll hotspot you"
We have been waiting so long for this Semyonov series, I kinda feel like we think we know them already...but we really don't and I love seeing the family dynamics, interactions and love. Here we have Shasha's book, he's the eldest, the head of the Semyonov Bratva and surrounded by secrets and shadows. But this book was not as dark as I expected it to be, Brecken brings a light into Shasha's world that he never expected, and he doesn't entirely know what to do with it. She is quirky, funny, sassy and determined - exactly what he needs. Don't get me wrong, we still have danger with a side of crazy, but this book was the complete opposite of what I expected and I LOVED it! Thank you Lani for once again turning our expectations on their head and surprising us, I cannot wait for the rest of the series and I really, really hope the Sweat siblings get a series too...please, please, please! The two families together are hilarious, so similar, yet also completely opposite at the same time, it's a fantastic dynamic.
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