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The Kozlov Bodyguards #2
My Hunger, Your Soul
𝑻𝒚𝒍𝒆𝒓
The biggest opportunity of my life presents itself when I’m offered a senior position at the most prestigious architectural firm in New York. Everything is pretty damn perfect…until the Kozlovs.
Noah, my brothers husband, warned me about them. I didn’t believe him. Now, they are my first big client, and I wish I could turn back time and refuse the job. It’s bad enough that this family is beyond crazy. But nothing prepared me for him.
Ivan.
Why won’t he leave me alone? He constantly flirts with me, annoys me with every word out of his mouth, and is determined to claim my soul. Good luck with that. I just want to do my job and escape him.
I don’t want him. I don’t.
𝑰𝒗𝒂𝒏
I love working for my cousins. It’s where I belong after drifting for so long from job to job. But I’m back with my family. The Kozlovs.
Dima and Lev have plans to extend the family home. That’s when the hot as hell architect turns up. Aren’t they supposed to be geeky bores? This guy looks like he has been created from my very own fantasizes.
Tyler.
He is my new goal in life. My hunger. I will claim his soul. Of course he plays hard to get, but isn’t that part of the fun?
*It is recommended that you read the first book in the series to maximise enjoyment, but if you don’t mind missing the detail, it can be read as a standalone.
The biggest opportunity of my life presents itself when I’m offered a senior position at the most prestigious architectural firm in New York. Everything is pretty damn perfect…until the Kozlovs.
Noah, my brothers husband, warned me about them. I didn’t believe him. Now, they are my first big client, and I wish I could turn back time and refuse the job. It’s bad enough that this family is beyond crazy. But nothing prepared me for him.
Ivan.
Why won’t he leave me alone? He constantly flirts with me, annoys me with every word out of his mouth, and is determined to claim my soul. Good luck with that. I just want to do my job and escape him.
I don’t want him. I don’t.
𝑰𝒗𝒂𝒏
I love working for my cousins. It’s where I belong after drifting for so long from job to job. But I’m back with my family. The Kozlovs.
Dima and Lev have plans to extend the family home. That’s when the hot as hell architect turns up. Aren’t they supposed to be geeky bores? This guy looks like he has been created from my very own fantasizes.
Tyler.
He is my new goal in life. My hunger. I will claim his soul. Of course he plays hard to get, but isn’t that part of the fun?
*It is recommended that you read the first book in the series to maximise enjoyment, but if you don’t mind missing the detail, it can be read as a standalone.
425 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 31, 2025
194 people are currently reading
786 people want to read
About the author
Syn Blackrose
8 books480 followersHi my lovelies,
I'm afraid I am not active on Goodreads; therefore, I will not respond to messages or requests on here.
If you would like to reach out to me, please check out my Instagram account.
Thanks! Syn xx
I'm afraid I am not active on Goodreads; therefore, I will not respond to messages or requests on here.
If you would like to reach out to me, please check out my Instagram account.
Thanks! Syn xx
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 145 reviews
April 1, 2025
4.5🌟
It's actually hilarious how i waited to read this for MONTHS !!!! Then i INHALED it in one night ,like there's no tomorrow.
It's actually hilarious how i waited to read this for MONTHS !!!! Then i INHALED it in one night ,like there's no tomorrow.
March 15, 2025
Ive been so excited for this story ever since finishing Our Blood, Our Pain and it was so good! I have a thing for completely unhinged, possessive and obsessed guys, the more red flags the better and these book always deliver. Ivan and Tyler’s story was so good, and I’m already looking forward to the next book!
April 5, 2025
⭐ 4'5
🌶️ 4
I’d been dying to get to Ivan and Tyler’s story. The hype was so real. Since the first book in the Kozlov brothers' bodyguard series (Our Blood, Our Pain) ended with that scene (Tyler at the door and Ivan giving him that look...) LMAO. I lost it! I knew I wasn’t ready, but I also couldn’t wait.
I was hooked from the very first page and couldn’t put it down. This whole found family, Syn Blackrose is building is completely unhinged… and I love it! Ok... It's filled with deranged, obsessive, morally questionable psychos, but also fiercely loyal, raw, and ride-or-die, and I’m so here for it!
Ivan is all of that and more. Once his eyes land on Tyler, there’s no turning back and Tyler doesn’t stand a damn chance. 😂
Ivan is obsessive, possessive, stubborn as hell... and relentless. But that’s the magic of their story. Watching both of them slowly tear down their walls, piece by piece, and build this twisted, beautiful mess of romance.
The plot, the found family and pleaseee, don’t get me started on the cameos. I didn’t see those two characters showing up and I absolutely lost my mind. This “Synverse” Syn Blackrose is crafting I'm Obsessed.
Let me give a shoutout to my baby Aaron, still chaotic as ever and his scenes with Tyler had me laughing out loud.
The group scenes were everything, pure serotonin, chaos and heart.
I am so ready for the next two. Like, emotionally bracing myself and also screaming internally, cause I know they’re going to explode, and I absolutely cannot wait to watch it all burn. I need it. Yesterday. 😂🔥
Always make sure to check the TW!
🌶️ 4
I’d been dying to get to Ivan and Tyler’s story. The hype was so real. Since the first book in the Kozlov brothers' bodyguard series (Our Blood, Our Pain) ended with that scene (Tyler at the door and Ivan giving him that look...) LMAO. I lost it! I knew I wasn’t ready, but I also couldn’t wait.
I was hooked from the very first page and couldn’t put it down. This whole found family, Syn Blackrose is building is completely unhinged… and I love it! Ok... It's filled with deranged, obsessive, morally questionable psychos, but also fiercely loyal, raw, and ride-or-die, and I’m so here for it!
Ivan is all of that and more. Once his eyes land on Tyler, there’s no turning back and Tyler doesn’t stand a damn chance. 😂
Ivan is obsessive, possessive, stubborn as hell... and relentless. But that’s the magic of their story. Watching both of them slowly tear down their walls, piece by piece, and build this twisted, beautiful mess of romance.
The plot, the found family and pleaseee, don’t get me started on the cameos. I didn’t see those two characters showing up and I absolutely lost my mind. This “Synverse” Syn Blackrose is crafting I'm Obsessed.
Let me give a shoutout to my baby Aaron, still chaotic as ever and his scenes with Tyler had me laughing out loud.
The group scenes were everything, pure serotonin, chaos and heart.
I am so ready for the next two. Like, emotionally bracing myself and also screaming internally, cause I know they’re going to explode, and I absolutely cannot wait to watch it all burn. I need it. Yesterday. 😂🔥
Always make sure to check the TW!
April 6, 2025
4 🌟
Ivan and Tyler
— psycho behavior
— opposites
— 🩸/ 🔪 play
— mafia vibes
— forced proximity
Ivan is such a controlling, possessive ahole, but in a lovable way 😅 he immediately knows after seeing his Ty that he wants to make him his. Ivan was just as crazy as I imagined, but I was surprised how sassy Tyler was. After the initial shock of Ivan’s feelings towards him, Tyler becomes such a fun and feisty pairing for Ivan.
Aaron 🥹 ugh this made me miss him and Lev so much. I just love him. It was also fun to see Noah and Chase again.
I am sooooo ready to see the craziness of Carlos and Simon unfold. I know they are going to be explosive. I can’t get enough of this messy, chaotic Kozlov family.
.
.
.
.
Potential spoilers
Dynamic: MM — strict
Sharing? No
Cheating? No
Breakup? No
Sex scene with OM or OW No
I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest and voluntary review.
Ivan and Tyler
— psycho behavior
— opposites
— 🩸/ 🔪 play
— mafia vibes
— forced proximity
Ivan is such a controlling, possessive ahole, but in a lovable way 😅 he immediately knows after seeing his Ty that he wants to make him his. Ivan was just as crazy as I imagined, but I was surprised how sassy Tyler was. After the initial shock of Ivan’s feelings towards him, Tyler becomes such a fun and feisty pairing for Ivan.
Aaron 🥹 ugh this made me miss him and Lev so much. I just love him. It was also fun to see Noah and Chase again.
I am sooooo ready to see the craziness of Carlos and Simon unfold. I know they are going to be explosive. I can’t get enough of this messy, chaotic Kozlov family.
.
.
.
.
Potential spoilers
Dynamic: MM — strict
Sharing? No
Cheating? No
Breakup? No
Sex scene with OM or OW No
I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest and voluntary review.
Read
August 16, 20250⭐️ So disappointing.
From the very beginning, the characters felt like copy-paste versions of ones I’ve seen in countless other books—nothing original or memorable. The plot was predictable, almost like it was ticking boxes from a formula. But what really threw me off was how it felt like the author lost interest halfway through. The story seemed to unravel into a bizarre mess with no clear direction, and by the end, I honestly had no idea what the book was even about anymore.
What a waste of time.
From the very beginning, the characters felt like copy-paste versions of ones I’ve seen in countless other books—nothing original or memorable. The plot was predictable, almost like it was ticking boxes from a formula. But what really threw me off was how it felt like the author lost interest halfway through. The story seemed to unravel into a bizarre mess with no clear direction, and by the end, I honestly had no idea what the book was even about anymore.
What a waste of time.
October 1, 2025
yeah, so i ate this up like a thanksgiving turkey!!!! i am feral for these books 🤪🤪🤪
May 17, 2025
okay but why did I have so much fun reading this?
“I want to consume your soul, Ty. Something inside me needs it, and I’m afraid I can’t stop now that I’ve started.”
“I want to consume your soul, Ty. Something inside me needs it, and I’m afraid I can’t stop now that I’ve started.”
March 13, 2025
“My hunger, your soul,” he mumbles.
“What do you mean?”
“I want to consume your soul, Ty. Something inside me needs it, and I’m afraid I can’t stop now that I’ve started.”
This. Freaking. Book. It’s everything!
We’re back in the world of the Kozlov family and now we finally get to hear the story of Tyler and Ivan. I’ve been waiting for this book ever since Craving The Chase and it wholeheartedly delivered! The push and pull from Tyler was exciting and watching him fall down the rabbit hole of Ivan was mesmerizing. Seriously, I couldn’t put this down.
Ivan is all smiles, but underneath lies something very dangerous. Also, I’m such a sucker for a man that calls his love interest ‘sweetheart’. Their chemistry was really great and I loved seeing how much they grew to rely on each other. Watching Tyler get corrupted was delicious. I think my favorite part of these novels is watching how quickly the innocent walls crumble as the men get pulled into this dangerous world. And the freaking possessiveness! In real life it would be terrifying, but inside the recesses of my mind I can swoon.
We also get to see so many familiar faces! I love this world that Syn has created and can’t wait for more. Five stars all around and another great addition to the Kozlov world.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
I received an ARC of this book for my honest opinion.
“What do you mean?”
“I want to consume your soul, Ty. Something inside me needs it, and I’m afraid I can’t stop now that I’ve started.”
This. Freaking. Book. It’s everything!
We’re back in the world of the Kozlov family and now we finally get to hear the story of Tyler and Ivan. I’ve been waiting for this book ever since Craving The Chase and it wholeheartedly delivered! The push and pull from Tyler was exciting and watching him fall down the rabbit hole of Ivan was mesmerizing. Seriously, I couldn’t put this down.
Ivan is all smiles, but underneath lies something very dangerous. Also, I’m such a sucker for a man that calls his love interest ‘sweetheart’. Their chemistry was really great and I loved seeing how much they grew to rely on each other. Watching Tyler get corrupted was delicious. I think my favorite part of these novels is watching how quickly the innocent walls crumble as the men get pulled into this dangerous world. And the freaking possessiveness! In real life it would be terrifying, but inside the recesses of my mind I can swoon.
We also get to see so many familiar faces! I love this world that Syn has created and can’t wait for more. Five stars all around and another great addition to the Kozlov world.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
I received an ARC of this book for my honest opinion.
April 1, 2025
This one was alright. Not my favorite from this author. Dima and Seb still hold that spot.
I liked Ivan. He was a psychopath mixed with a golden retriever which I loved. I wasn’t the biggest fan of Tyler. He annoyed me for most of the book. He got better later on but I didn’t like him as much as Ivan.
I didn’t quite feel the chemistry between these two though. Idk I needed something more from them. Ivan was obsessive and possessive but he also didn’t care to learn anything about Tyler. He saw him and wanted him so it seemed all physical to me.
I definitely would not read this as a standalone because the conflict deals with people from the previous book. You would be confused if you didn’t read that one first.
To be honest the only reason I finished this was because I’m waiting for Carlos and Simon’s book. But to hear that they both have been sleeping around a lot even though they clearly have some kind of obsession with each other bummed me out a bit. Not really too happy about that.
NO CHEATING
NO OP DRAMA (just jealousy)
NO THIRD ACT BREAK UP
TORTURE
MURDER
I liked Ivan. He was a psychopath mixed with a golden retriever which I loved. I wasn’t the biggest fan of Tyler. He annoyed me for most of the book. He got better later on but I didn’t like him as much as Ivan.
I didn’t quite feel the chemistry between these two though. Idk I needed something more from them. Ivan was obsessive and possessive but he also didn’t care to learn anything about Tyler. He saw him and wanted him so it seemed all physical to me.
I definitely would not read this as a standalone because the conflict deals with people from the previous book. You would be confused if you didn’t read that one first.
To be honest the only reason I finished this was because I’m waiting for Carlos and Simon’s book. But to hear that they both have been sleeping around a lot even though they clearly have some kind of obsession with each other bummed me out a bit. Not really too happy about that.
NO CHEATING
NO OP DRAMA (just jealousy)
NO THIRD ACT BREAK UP
TORTURE
MURDER
March 20, 2026
THERE ARE SO MANY DAMN REASONS WHY SYN IS ONE OF MY FAVOURITE MM AUTHORS AND MY GOD, THIS BOOK WAS JUST ANOTHER REASON.
Yes this is Ivan and Tyler’s book, but we still got Dima, Lev, Seb, Aaron, Jules and Kai… and and and NOAH AND CHASE (craving the chase) and it literally had me dripping.
This is very fast paced, Ivan knows what and who he wants and from day one his had one mission… Tyler.
Ivan, cousin of our brother Dima and Lev. Ivan and his bag of toys did things to me, and his mouth. Nom!
Tyler, the whiplash this guy had dealing with Ivan. Ugh my heart.
Again, another banger. THIS WAS EVERYTHING.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Yes this is Ivan and Tyler’s book, but we still got Dima, Lev, Seb, Aaron, Jules and Kai… and and and NOAH AND CHASE (craving the chase) and it literally had me dripping.
This is very fast paced, Ivan knows what and who he wants and from day one his had one mission… Tyler.
Ivan, cousin of our brother Dima and Lev. Ivan and his bag of toys did things to me, and his mouth. Nom!
Tyler, the whiplash this guy had dealing with Ivan. Ugh my heart.
Again, another banger. THIS WAS EVERYTHING.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
April 3, 2025
Dark, dirty and delicious 🖤
March 14, 2025
I've been a fan of Syn since I read her first book, and she has consistently delivered incredible stories that keep me hooked. Her writing style, especially in dark romance and unhinged characters, is unmatched. This book was no exception—it had everything I love about her work: a possessive main character, intense kinks, a compelling background plot that keeps you engaged, and fantastic cameos from side characters that enrich the story.
This story follows Ivan, whom we've met in previous books of the series, and Tyler, Chase's brother from *Craving the Chase*, another of Syn's books. From the moment they met, Ivan was drawn to Tyler, but Tyler dismissed him as an arrogant jerk. That didn’t stop Ivan from pursuing him, and I absolutely loved watching the "good boy" (Tyler) fall into corruption. Their chemistry was explosive from the start, and Ivan’s darker side only made him more captivating—call me crazy, but I loved every bit of it.
The background plot was gripping, keeping me on edge as Tyler wrestled with doing the right thing versus following his desires. I was thrilled when he chose what made him happy. There’s some action, and knowing the Kozlovs, plenty of blood—but I enjoyed every moment of it.
We also get to see Noah and Chase in this story, and I particularly loved the dynamic between Ivan and Noah, especially how Ivan saw him as a brother. The cameos and banter among the characters were written brilliantly, adding depth and entertainment to the book.
Overall, if you’re a fan of Syn’s previous books or dark romance in general, I highly recommend this one—it’s absolutely worth your time.
* I received an ARC copy from the author and this is my honest review *
This story follows Ivan, whom we've met in previous books of the series, and Tyler, Chase's brother from *Craving the Chase*, another of Syn's books. From the moment they met, Ivan was drawn to Tyler, but Tyler dismissed him as an arrogant jerk. That didn’t stop Ivan from pursuing him, and I absolutely loved watching the "good boy" (Tyler) fall into corruption. Their chemistry was explosive from the start, and Ivan’s darker side only made him more captivating—call me crazy, but I loved every bit of it.
The background plot was gripping, keeping me on edge as Tyler wrestled with doing the right thing versus following his desires. I was thrilled when he chose what made him happy. There’s some action, and knowing the Kozlovs, plenty of blood—but I enjoyed every moment of it.
We also get to see Noah and Chase in this story, and I particularly loved the dynamic between Ivan and Noah, especially how Ivan saw him as a brother. The cameos and banter among the characters were written brilliantly, adding depth and entertainment to the book.
Overall, if you’re a fan of Syn’s previous books or dark romance in general, I highly recommend this one—it’s absolutely worth your time.
* I received an ARC copy from the author and this is my honest review *
October 12, 2025
Tropes: found family, forced proximity
Feels: 2/5
Steam*: 2.5/5
Kinks: pain kink, choking, dubcon, blood drinking as a kink
Angst: low
HEA: HEA
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings/representation: controlling behavior by one MMC towards another, murder, Gore
Cheating between MCs: No
Any cheating: No
Other person drama: once they meet, neither of them are with anyone else.
3 stars
Ivan is 30, gay, and he works as an enforcer with his cousins' criminal enterprise. He's been assigned to work with the architect hired to build some homes on the family property. When he meets Tyler, the architect, he's immediately smitten and wants to make him his. Tyler, also 30, is bi but has never been with a man other than making out. He's never been exposed to the criminal world, and he's new at the company he's working at, so he's not enthusiastic about Ivan's attention initially. But he is attracted to Ivan and as Ivan forces his domineering behavior on Tyler, Tyler realizes that he has some kinks he didn't know about and he starts falling for Ivan.
In many respects, this book was okay. The dynamic between Ivan and Tyler was promising at first with the cat and mouse hunt. And there really was a lot of sexual chemistry between them. And there were some funny moments amongst the Koslov men and their partners. But it was a little too dark for me, because it was bloodlust for the sake of enjoyment in killing. And I wasn't a fan of Ivan's intensely controlling behavior. He took away all of Tyler's choices and Tyler was just okay with it?! That's not relationship goals. I don't like a relationship dynamic where one person is a doormat. Take a character like Aaron in this book, he was a little s*** who submitted to his partner, but also gave him all kinds of attitude and played with him and pushed back. That's a lot more likable of a dynamic than Tyler just letting himself be steamrolled, and Ivan being unlikable in forcing his will on Tyler. Also, these guys filming themselves torturing and murdering people was ridiculous, especially given the cop involvement, it was so stupid, they are creating evidence.
This book (and the book that came before it!) spends far too much time obviously pimping the upcoming book for Carlos and Simon. There is so much time spent amping up the Carlos and Simon relationship, which yeah it sounds like it has a cool dynamic to their relationship, but I'm getting more annoyed with them than excited because they are taking over Ivan and Tyler's book. It's really unrealistic and unnatural for everyone to be commenting on Carlos and Simon the way that they do, yes it's natural to be gossipy about your friends, but the way that they talk about how excited they are for Carlos and Simon is just unrealistic. The author needed to back off and focus on the Tyler and Ivan relationship, because it could have been developed better.
I also found it really unrealistic that Chase was encouraging Tyler to be with Ivan so easily and enthusiastically before he had even met him or knew him personally. Chase doesn't really know Ivan or his character. Him automatically assuming that because Ivan does bad things that that makes him a good life partner is ridiculous, Ivan is a stranger to him.
Some notable moments:
I love Aaron's vibe. "“D will be fine. Come on, let's go before I bald Aaron’s head.” “You know he’s gay. Right?” “No fucker is anything in this family. She needs to keep her hands off him before I cut them off.” “He’s doing it to annoy you,” I laugh as we head toward an ecstatic-looking Aaron. “It’s fucking working. Doe, get your ass over here—time to go,” Lev orders. Aaron pushes the girl away and almost skips over to Lev."
"“I’m going on a date.” Silence fills Dima’s home office, and he looks up from the desk to where I stand next to the door. “You never date.” “I do now.” “Does the other person know it's a date?” “No.”"
*FYI about steam: I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.
Feels: 2/5
Steam*: 2.5/5
Kinks: pain kink, choking, dubcon, blood drinking as a kink
Angst: low
HEA: HEA
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings/representation: controlling behavior by one MMC towards another, murder, Gore
Cheating between MCs: No
Any cheating: No
Other person drama: once they meet, neither of them are with anyone else.
3 stars
Ivan is 30, gay, and he works as an enforcer with his cousins' criminal enterprise. He's been assigned to work with the architect hired to build some homes on the family property. When he meets Tyler, the architect, he's immediately smitten and wants to make him his. Tyler, also 30, is bi but has never been with a man other than making out. He's never been exposed to the criminal world, and he's new at the company he's working at, so he's not enthusiastic about Ivan's attention initially. But he is attracted to Ivan and as Ivan forces his domineering behavior on Tyler, Tyler realizes that he has some kinks he didn't know about and he starts falling for Ivan.
In many respects, this book was okay. The dynamic between Ivan and Tyler was promising at first with the cat and mouse hunt. And there really was a lot of sexual chemistry between them. And there were some funny moments amongst the Koslov men and their partners. But it was a little too dark for me, because it was bloodlust for the sake of enjoyment in killing. And I wasn't a fan of Ivan's intensely controlling behavior. He took away all of Tyler's choices and Tyler was just okay with it?! That's not relationship goals. I don't like a relationship dynamic where one person is a doormat. Take a character like Aaron in this book, he was a little s*** who submitted to his partner, but also gave him all kinds of attitude and played with him and pushed back. That's a lot more likable of a dynamic than Tyler just letting himself be steamrolled, and Ivan being unlikable in forcing his will on Tyler. Also, these guys filming themselves torturing and murdering people was ridiculous, especially given the cop involvement, it was so stupid, they are creating evidence.
This book (and the book that came before it!) spends far too much time obviously pimping the upcoming book for Carlos and Simon. There is so much time spent amping up the Carlos and Simon relationship, which yeah it sounds like it has a cool dynamic to their relationship, but I'm getting more annoyed with them than excited because they are taking over Ivan and Tyler's book. It's really unrealistic and unnatural for everyone to be commenting on Carlos and Simon the way that they do, yes it's natural to be gossipy about your friends, but the way that they talk about how excited they are for Carlos and Simon is just unrealistic. The author needed to back off and focus on the Tyler and Ivan relationship, because it could have been developed better.
I also found it really unrealistic that Chase was encouraging Tyler to be with Ivan so easily and enthusiastically before he had even met him or knew him personally. Chase doesn't really know Ivan or his character. Him automatically assuming that because Ivan does bad things that that makes him a good life partner is ridiculous, Ivan is a stranger to him.
Some notable moments:
I love Aaron's vibe. "“D will be fine. Come on, let's go before I bald Aaron’s head.” “You know he’s gay. Right?” “No fucker is anything in this family. She needs to keep her hands off him before I cut them off.” “He’s doing it to annoy you,” I laugh as we head toward an ecstatic-looking Aaron. “It’s fucking working. Doe, get your ass over here—time to go,” Lev orders. Aaron pushes the girl away and almost skips over to Lev."
"“I’m going on a date.” Silence fills Dima’s home office, and he looks up from the desk to where I stand next to the door. “You never date.” “I do now.” “Does the other person know it's a date?” “No.”"
*FYI about steam: I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 14, 2025
I loved this one.
I had been hoping as soon as we met Ivan in the last book that his would be next. I just feel in love with him and his modified tattoo machine and I didn’t think Syn could top that but she did.
At first I did think that Tyler was going to annoy me but then I remembered who his brother and brother in law was and if Chase can deal with Noah’s crazy then Tyler can deal with Ivan’s.
I would never have thought of a tongue piercings could be a kink but Tyler proved me wrong. It did put me a little in mind of how Dima got with Seb but I loved that book so I’m not complaining.
The men of the Koslov family really do love possessively but I’m all for it.
I’m not sure who I’m more scared for next Simon or Carlos. I have a feeling we’re gonna need a fire extinguisher handy for those 2.
I had been hoping as soon as we met Ivan in the last book that his would be next. I just feel in love with him and his modified tattoo machine and I didn’t think Syn could top that but she did.
At first I did think that Tyler was going to annoy me but then I remembered who his brother and brother in law was and if Chase can deal with Noah’s crazy then Tyler can deal with Ivan’s.
I would never have thought of a tongue piercings could be a kink but Tyler proved me wrong. It did put me a little in mind of how Dima got with Seb but I loved that book so I’m not complaining.
The men of the Koslov family really do love possessively but I’m all for it.
I’m not sure who I’m more scared for next Simon or Carlos. I have a feeling we’re gonna need a fire extinguisher handy for those 2.
January 9, 2026
“I want to consume your soul, Ty. Something inside me needs it, and I’m afraid I can’t stop now that I’ve started.”
“Very happy. I’m pretty sure I love you too.”
“Very happy. I’m pretty sure I love you too.”
March 17, 2026
I’m not exactly experienced with guys, but even if I was to entertain being with a man, the last person I would pick is a muscled criminal with a defective personality that has every red flag flashing in front of him. - Tyler
🤔Quick Thoughts:🤔
⭐️ 5/5
🌶️ 3.5/5
💭Okay, so out of all the characters in this Kozlov “universe”, Ivan is HANDS DOWN my favorite. I don’t care what anyone says, him and his black bag of torture have carved their way a into my heart and it’s was well worth it. I can’t think of anything off the top of my head that I didn’t like. No book is perfect, but for me this is pretty darn close. Ivan’s one sided friendship with Noah is the best thing ever. Ivan is a nutjob, but he’s Tyler’s nutjob. Poor Tyler, his destiny was always going to be this, there is no escape once a Kozlov decides you are theirs.
💁♂️Main Characters:💁♂️
Ivan Kozlov:
Bodyguard, Kozlov brother’s cousin, 6’4”, Tongue piercing, black hair frequently in a bun and brown eyes
You can wrap your arms around me too,” he says gently in my ear, and I move my arms around his torso and pull him closer. A soft sigh leaves his body as he hands himself over to me. I’ve finally achieved it. I own his soul. - Ivan
Tyler Blackford:
30, Senior Architect, Chase’s Brother, 6”, brown hair and blue eyes
I want him to fuck me so hard his dick comes out of my mouth. I need him to own every part of me inside. - Tyler
🔥🌶️Intimate/Spicy Moments Include:🌶️🔥
🛑⚠️Trigger/Content Warnings: ⚠️🛑
😰😓My Limits:😓😰
Sharing: No
Cheating: No
OW/OM: No
Break Up: No
HEA/HFN?: Yes
Emetophobia: Words used, but does not occur.
❤️Tropes/Themes:❤️
📚Read Their Stories: 📚
Aaron: Lev’s little nutjob, Kill for You (The Kozlov Brothers #2)
Carlos: Distributor for the Kozlov brothers, Your Hate, My Claim (The Kozlov Bodyguards #3)
Chase: Tyler’s little brother, Noah’s husband, Psychologist, Craving The Chase
Dima: Head of the Family, Seb’s Husband, Kozlov brother, Tied to You (The Kozlov Brothers #1)
Jules: Kai’s husband and step-uncle, Bodyguard for the Kozlov brothers, Our Blood, Our Pain (The Kozlov Bodyguards #1)
Kai: , Jules’ husband and step-nephew, Works for the Kozlov brothers, Our Blood, Our Pain (The Kozlov Bodyguards #1)
Lev: Aaron’s man, Kozlov brother, Kill for You (The Kozlov Brothers #2)
Noah: Psychopath, Chase’s husband, Craving The Chase
Seb: Dima’s Husband and ex-captive, Bartender at Starlight, Tied to You (The Kozlov Brothers #1)
Simon: Bodyguard for the Kozlov brothers, Your Hate, My Claim (The Kozlov Bodyguards #3)
📝Memorable Quotes:📝
“I bet he’s straight,” Lev says, and the guy moves toward us. “That’s even hotter. I love a good challenge,” I say with a determination that anything straight can be manipulated to bend at will. - Ivan
I have to restrain myself from running to the door. I need to get a smell of him this time. Imprint him so I will know if he walks into a room without looking. - Ivan
“If I’m going to work here, I want you to keep your distance. Don’t touch me, flirt with me, or smell me. Got it?” I love this feisty side. I’m so horny right now. - Ivan
“What do you keep in that thing?” Simon asks. “My babies.” “He means his fucked up torture devices,” Jules says.
Tyler: “If you don’t leave…why are you grinning like that?”
Ivan: “I like your spirit. I’m excited to break it.”
“My hunger, your soul,” he mumbles. which briefly composes me as I try to understand what he means. “What do you mean?” “I want to consume your soul, Ty. Something inside me needs it, and I’m afraid I can’t stop now that I’ve started.”
“That's it sweetheart, take my cock like the little slut you were meant to be for me,” he [Ivan] growls, lifting my legs a little higher over his arms. - Tyler
Noah: “No. I hate people and being in the same place. Also I need to keep Chase close. I don’t want him disappearing.”
Ivan: “He looks devoted to me.” “
Noah: I can’t risk anyone touching him.”
Ivan: “I’m the same. I’m moving Ty here so I can have my eyes on him.”
Noah: “That's how it should be.”
Ivan: “I like you, Noah. I think we’ll get on just fine.”
Noah: “I wasn’t inviting you to visit. This conversation already has me reaching my social limit.”
With a pop, I release him from my mouth and straddle his hips. I always wanted to be a cowboy. - Tyler
Noah pulls away the gag and closes his eyes for a brief second, inhaling the sea air, savoring the moment. Fuck being brothers. We’re twins. - Ivan
“Oh but I do. You may not like the bad things that bad guys do, Ty. But you will crave my attention. You’ve been a loner for so long you’ll embrace this family. You’ll eat up the excitement it gives you, because I know you’ve never felt the way I made you feel tonight. So serious. So organized. That wound up brain of yours will become addicted to the chaos and heat we create. You won’t be able to live without me. And I have zero intention of letting you go now that I’ve got you.” - Ivan
💤The Boring Stuff: 💤
Book #: 2 (Series: The Kozlov Bodyguards)
Published 31 Mar 2025 at 425 Pages per Kindle
Read 2 Mar 2026 via KU
1st Person, Dual POV
Reviewer Note: I think I give stars away way too easily but I can’t help myself. It can be safely assumed all of my reviews are from books that the animal lives, are 1st Person, have a HEA, and have no intimate or spicy scenes with anyone/thing other than MC(s) unless otherwise detailed. I try to rate books objectively if they have something I don’t typically like (i.e. Break Ups, SA, 3rd Person, Single POV, Sharing Partners). If it’s still written well the author deserves the praise but I will make note to avoid for myself in the future. I do my best to mark different triggers/warnings as well as the intimate acts performed in case anything listed/done might not be something you would want to read. If M/M, Age Play, Interspecies, Insta Love, Erotica, MPreg, or Incest are something you actively avoid, you are probably better off avoiding most of the books I review.
March 26, 2025
I am pretty sure when I reviewed Our Blood Our Pain I said... Just when I think her characters can't get anymore more unhinged Syn says 'Hold My Beer' and pops out Ivan. I was not wrong, at all.
This guy is a friggin lunatic... I mean... He is a Kozlov so it makes sense but I'm pretty sure he takes the cake for the number 1 spot. I probably thought a hundred or more times 'Ivan, you can't do that' ... But Ivan doesn't take no for an answer and I'm pretty sure he has no clue what it means.
And you think Poor Tyler... That routine driven, uptight, straight laced, lonely guy needed Ivans crazy. I'm pretty sure Ivan made him see sound and hear colors by the time he was done but Tyler loved it. And found a family that he desperately needed.
I absolutely love this world and bringing in Noah and Chase was like icing on the cake. If you haven't read the others I would not recommend starting here. You need to form a relationship with the rest of the lunatics before you meet Ivan and Tyler 🖤
I'm so excited for Simon and Carlos' book!!!! I feel a lot of angry hate shmex coming 🥵 The tension between those two 🔥 I also feel Carlos may be a bit of a 'brat' tamer 😂 Simon is just one innuendo away from actually 🔪🩸 Carlos and I am here for every bit of it!!!
This guy is a friggin lunatic... I mean... He is a Kozlov so it makes sense but I'm pretty sure he takes the cake for the number 1 spot. I probably thought a hundred or more times 'Ivan, you can't do that' ... But Ivan doesn't take no for an answer and I'm pretty sure he has no clue what it means.
And you think Poor Tyler... That routine driven, uptight, straight laced, lonely guy needed Ivans crazy. I'm pretty sure Ivan made him see sound and hear colors by the time he was done but Tyler loved it. And found a family that he desperately needed.
I absolutely love this world and bringing in Noah and Chase was like icing on the cake. If you haven't read the others I would not recommend starting here. You need to form a relationship with the rest of the lunatics before you meet Ivan and Tyler 🖤
I'm so excited for Simon and Carlos' book!!!! I feel a lot of angry hate shmex coming 🥵 The tension between those two 🔥 I also feel Carlos may be a bit of a 'brat' tamer 😂 Simon is just one innuendo away from actually 🔪🩸 Carlos and I am here for every bit of it!!!
March 30, 2025
4.75 ⭐️
What a wonderful adventure into the unhinged world of the Kozlov brothers & their eclectic found family.
Ivan was a domineering sociopathic dreamboat who very much had a "he's mine" at first sight moment when Tyler entered the compound.
I loved Tyler's loneliness and the way he grappled with his desires vs. morality. I loved how detached from emotions Ivan was. I loved how we saw Dima & Seb and Lev & Aaron. Kai, Aaron, and Seb's acceptance helped Tyler find his footing in this new weird environment.
My absolute favorite part, besides the freaky deaky parts, was seeing Noah and Chase. They're my favorite. Ivan's (and Lev's 😂😂) reaction to Noah was AMAZING.
Tyler needed the attention and possessiveness Ivan offered. He was such a sweetheart, and watching him in his NYC apartment made me so sad. Thankfully, Ivan swooped in and saved him.
These books aren't for the faint of heart. Syn writes DARK romance, so detach yourself from reality and enjoy the weird & kinky world that's painted for you.
MY HUNGER, YOUR SOUL is out on Monday the 31st! Don't sleep on these books. They keep getting better and better!
What a wonderful adventure into the unhinged world of the Kozlov brothers & their eclectic found family.
Ivan was a domineering sociopathic dreamboat who very much had a "he's mine" at first sight moment when Tyler entered the compound.
I loved Tyler's loneliness and the way he grappled with his desires vs. morality. I loved how detached from emotions Ivan was. I loved how we saw Dima & Seb and Lev & Aaron. Kai, Aaron, and Seb's acceptance helped Tyler find his footing in this new weird environment.
My absolute favorite part, besides the freaky deaky parts, was seeing Noah and Chase. They're my favorite. Ivan's (and Lev's 😂😂) reaction to Noah was AMAZING.
Tyler needed the attention and possessiveness Ivan offered. He was such a sweetheart, and watching him in his NYC apartment made me so sad. Thankfully, Ivan swooped in and saved him.
These books aren't for the faint of heart. Syn writes DARK romance, so detach yourself from reality and enjoy the weird & kinky world that's painted for you.
MY HUNGER, YOUR SOUL is out on Monday the 31st! Don't sleep on these books. They keep getting better and better!
March 13, 2025
Damn did I miss this chaotic family! The Kozlovs are back and better than ever. Ivan is crazy w a capital C. From the moment he set his eyes on Ty he belonged to him. Mind. Body. Soul. Tho Ty tried everything in his power to deny the feelings bubbling under the surface, he couldn’t push them away. Tyler was so intrigued by Ivan and that was mainly what fueled his attraction. Ivan’s persistent personality called to Tyler’s heart. These two were so hot together. No matter how much Tyler tried to resist, Ivan made sure he knew who owned him. I thought it was so funny how the brothers and their spouses were so casual with Ty. Like yea totally, Ivan stuck his claim in him and now he’s a permanent part of the family. Welcome home. This was so much fun. I love this family so much! I can’t wait for the next book!!! Thank u Syn for letting me review an ARC for this book!!!🖤💙
Read
May 19, 2025ngl not a huge fan idk why....i just prefer my dark romance to still be sappy and sweet. which SOUNDS wrong i know TRUST im not mad or upset bc thats just the lay of the genre but there r CERTAIN authors who get it TM. and write a romance that has a DARK setting with DARK characters and still has a cute romance. this wasn't one of them which im NAWT begrudging the author for. it was still kind of fun! i just got tired of it in the middle and reread one of my fave darkish romances, and then skimmed the end. so tbh this is prob a case of its not u its me bc i was in the mood for something sweet and not in the mood for this. but i stuck it thru.
April 4, 2025
Syn has delivered again!
You know a book is good when you are
highlighting quotes non-stop. Once
again, Syn has given us another dark
MC, who is
possessive,controlling,unhinged & i ate
it up.Tyler had no hope when it came to
falling for Ivan.He waS charming in a
crazed pyscho way; but it worked.The
Kozlov brothers & all their family are a
bunch of deranged psychopaths but
they are certainly lovable.This book
was everything i was hoping it would
be &
I'm
loving how all the characters
just keep getting crazier.
You know a book is good when you are
highlighting quotes non-stop. Once
again, Syn has given us another dark
MC, who is
possessive,controlling,unhinged & i ate
it up.Tyler had no hope when it came to
falling for Ivan.He waS charming in a
crazed pyscho way; but it worked.The
Kozlov brothers & all their family are a
bunch of deranged psychopaths but
they are certainly lovable.This book
was everything i was hoping it would
be &
I'm
loving how all the characters
just keep getting crazier.
March 13, 2025
This book is so good, wonderfully dark, and everything I needed. Syn Blackrose is amazing. Her books always draw me in and leave me content. This author writes romance in the most beautiful dark and wickedly delicious way, and I cannot get enough. This book is a must read! More than once! 🖤🖤🖤
March 25, 2025
4,5⭐️
The story of Ivan and Tyler was exactly what I would have wanted and expected for them. Ivan is definitely one of the crazy ones and even if he doesn’t always admit it, Tyler kind of loves it. Ivan has this way of making him feel seen and taken care of, and at the same time, Tyler still has some backbones which give their relationship another dimension that corresponds well.
When Tyler decided to move and take a job opportunity, he wouldn’t have thought that his first contract would be with a mafia family and that he would be the recipient of the obsessi0n of one of the members. Since the first moment he saw Tyler, Ivan that he would be his, the one man who would feel his life and he’s ready to do anything to have him.
Overall, I really like this story and damn the next one is gonna be so so intense !! Simon is not ready for it. And I loved the cameos obviously.
I received an ARC Copy of this book from Euphoric Promotion, this review is from my own thoughts 😍
The story of Ivan and Tyler was exactly what I would have wanted and expected for them. Ivan is definitely one of the crazy ones and even if he doesn’t always admit it, Tyler kind of loves it. Ivan has this way of making him feel seen and taken care of, and at the same time, Tyler still has some backbones which give their relationship another dimension that corresponds well.
When Tyler decided to move and take a job opportunity, he wouldn’t have thought that his first contract would be with a mafia family and that he would be the recipient of the obsessi0n of one of the members. Since the first moment he saw Tyler, Ivan that he would be his, the one man who would feel his life and he’s ready to do anything to have him.
Overall, I really like this story and damn the next one is gonna be so so intense !! Simon is not ready for it. And I loved the cameos obviously.
I received an ARC Copy of this book from Euphoric Promotion, this review is from my own thoughts 😍
April 8, 2025
"My hunger, your soul"
"What do you mean"
"I want to consume your soul, Ty. Something inside me needs it, and I'm afraid I cant't stop now that I've started"
OMG, we are back to the wild, addictive world of the Kozlovs! I was beyond excited for this one, it’s Tyler’s book, and if you’ve read Craving the Chase, then you know exactly who Tyler is. If you haven’t? Do yourself a favor and read it first. Trust me.
But the best part? Not only did we finally get Tyler’s story, but he was the one who caught Ivan’s attention! And let me tell you, Ivan in this book? Unhinged in the best way. The Kozlovs are known for their obsessive, possessive streak, but Ivan takes it to a whole new, deliciously dangerous level. The moment he laid eyes on Tyler, it was game over. Tyler was his, whether he was ready for it or not.
What made this book even more fun was the push and pull between Tyler and Ivan. Tyler tried so hard to fight against the pull, doing everything in his power to keep Ivan at a distance. But Ivan? He was relentless, wanting Tyler by his side always. It was absolutely addictive watching them clash, with Tyler throwing up every wall he could, and Ivan, determined, obsessive, and completely unbothered, tearing them down one by one. And even with all his chaos, Ivan had this twistedly sweet way of making sure Tyler was taken care of, even when he was driving him insane.
Tyler fought him for as long as he could, but with Chase’s help, he was finally able to see things differently. And when that moment came? Perfection.
This book had everything, intensity, passion, a battle of wills, and a love story that consumed me. If you love possessive heroes, fiery chemistry, and a dynamic that keeps you on the edge of your seat, you need to read this!
"What do you mean"
"I want to consume your soul, Ty. Something inside me needs it, and I'm afraid I cant't stop now that I've started"
OMG, we are back to the wild, addictive world of the Kozlovs! I was beyond excited for this one, it’s Tyler’s book, and if you’ve read Craving the Chase, then you know exactly who Tyler is. If you haven’t? Do yourself a favor and read it first. Trust me.
But the best part? Not only did we finally get Tyler’s story, but he was the one who caught Ivan’s attention! And let me tell you, Ivan in this book? Unhinged in the best way. The Kozlovs are known for their obsessive, possessive streak, but Ivan takes it to a whole new, deliciously dangerous level. The moment he laid eyes on Tyler, it was game over. Tyler was his, whether he was ready for it or not.
What made this book even more fun was the push and pull between Tyler and Ivan. Tyler tried so hard to fight against the pull, doing everything in his power to keep Ivan at a distance. But Ivan? He was relentless, wanting Tyler by his side always. It was absolutely addictive watching them clash, with Tyler throwing up every wall he could, and Ivan, determined, obsessive, and completely unbothered, tearing them down one by one. And even with all his chaos, Ivan had this twistedly sweet way of making sure Tyler was taken care of, even when he was driving him insane.
Tyler fought him for as long as he could, but with Chase’s help, he was finally able to see things differently. And when that moment came? Perfection.
This book had everything, intensity, passion, a battle of wills, and a love story that consumed me. If you love possessive heroes, fiery chemistry, and a dynamic that keeps you on the edge of your seat, you need to read this!
April 7, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
As per usual, this book was hilarious.
Just when I thought Syns characters couldn’t get more unhinged - ✨Ivan✨and let’s be real, Tyler is a little unhinged too.
As per usual, this book was hilarious.
Just when I thought Syns characters couldn’t get more unhinged - ✨Ivan✨and let’s be real, Tyler is a little unhinged too.
April 14, 2025
I want my time back 😔
March 31, 2025
I was excited to get back into the Kozlov world and especially with Tyler as an MC who we met in Craving the Chase. Ivan is unhinged but thoroughly honest in who he is which I think Tyler needed in his life. It was nice seeing all the other couples and how everyone interacts. I really enjoyed this book. Definitely looking forward to Simon and Carlos. Think they’ll have intense chemistry.
April 7, 2025
DNF. so much crappy dialogue and way too much telling without showing. There’s no chemistry between these characters and Tyler is annoying.
July 4, 2025
My Hunger, Your Soul was a treat! The Kozlov brothers/ bodyguards universe is so much fun and I loved going back into this world.
Ivan is the cousin of Dima and Lev. He is back with them, happy to be able to be his true self- an unhinged psychopath. He meets their new architect, Tyler, who just wants to put his head down and do the job and leave. He imprints on Tyler like a psychotic bird and claims him. Tyler tries desperately to resist the man but Ivan won’t let him.
Please read trigger warnings for this book! If you have read any of the other books in the series, you should have an idea of what to expect.
This book was treat for me because of the unexpected appearances of Noah and Chase, Tyler’s younger brother, from her stand alone book “Craving the Chase”. I highly recommend reading that before this!
I adore Noah and having him and Chase in this book and getting more glimpses of them and their relationship was everything! I also adored Ivan’s low key bro crush on Noah! It was funny and cute, even when they are bonding over some not so nice things. Overall, this book was entertaining and hot and crazy and makes you judge yourself just a little bit!
Thanks Syn for letting me read and review! 💋
Ivan is the cousin of Dima and Lev. He is back with them, happy to be able to be his true self- an unhinged psychopath. He meets their new architect, Tyler, who just wants to put his head down and do the job and leave. He imprints on Tyler like a psychotic bird and claims him. Tyler tries desperately to resist the man but Ivan won’t let him.
Please read trigger warnings for this book! If you have read any of the other books in the series, you should have an idea of what to expect.
This book was treat for me because of the unexpected appearances of Noah and Chase, Tyler’s younger brother, from her stand alone book “Craving the Chase”. I highly recommend reading that before this!
I adore Noah and having him and Chase in this book and getting more glimpses of them and their relationship was everything! I also adored Ivan’s low key bro crush on Noah! It was funny and cute, even when they are bonding over some not so nice things. Overall, this book was entertaining and hot and crazy and makes you judge yourself just a little bit!
Thanks Syn for letting me read and review! 💋
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