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Koslov Bratva #5
Sinful Scars
Elle
He rescued me from certain death but refused to reveal his identity to me.
He told me he’s been watching me for years.
I should be scared.
But for some crazy reason, I trust him.
He’s in my room while I sleep, protecting me,
But I crave more.
I beg him until he gives me what I want.
Yet he still refuses to show me who he is.
He’s intoxicating.
I can’t breathe without him.
But he’s hiding something from me.
Even when I discover the truth,
I can’t keep away.
And then I learn that I’m pregnant.
Lev
I need to keep my distance.
She's better off without me.
But she keeps forcing me closer.
She thinks she knows the truth.
But there’s so much more that I’m keeping from her.
She has no idea the danger she’s in,
or who I really am.
I’ll do anything to protect her,
because without her, I’m nothing.
Sinful Scars is the fifth book of the Kolslov Bratva series. Each book in this series features a different couple and can be read as a standalone, but for better understanding of the world, you might want to read previous books first.
He rescued me from certain death but refused to reveal his identity to me.
He told me he’s been watching me for years.
I should be scared.
But for some crazy reason, I trust him.
He’s in my room while I sleep, protecting me,
But I crave more.
I beg him until he gives me what I want.
Yet he still refuses to show me who he is.
He’s intoxicating.
I can’t breathe without him.
But he’s hiding something from me.
Even when I discover the truth,
I can’t keep away.
And then I learn that I’m pregnant.
Lev
I need to keep my distance.
She's better off without me.
But she keeps forcing me closer.
She thinks she knows the truth.
But there’s so much more that I’m keeping from her.
She has no idea the danger she’s in,
or who I really am.
I’ll do anything to protect her,
because without her, I’m nothing.
Sinful Scars is the fifth book of the Kolslov Bratva series. Each book in this series features a different couple and can be read as a standalone, but for better understanding of the world, you might want to read previous books first.
294 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 9, 2025
676 people are currently reading
665 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 116 reviews
April 13, 2025
Uffff 🤌🏼 valió la pena llegar hasta aquí.
Lev, te quiero tanto ✨🫶🏼 el final casi me hace llorar, me apachurro el corazón.
La historia tiene la cantidad de drama perfecta, ya estoy HARTA de Igor Ivanov! 🤬😡 como lo detesto.
Solo por eso necesito leer el último libro para saber en qué termina toda la historia de los Koslov.
La verdad me sorprendió este libro, no me esperaba algo decente, menos después de haber leído casi toda la serie. Pero la verdad si es bastante adictiva y desde el primer libro quieres desencadenar todo sobre la trama principal de los Koslov.
Lev, te quiero tanto ✨🫶🏼 el final casi me hace llorar, me apachurro el corazón.
La historia tiene la cantidad de drama perfecta, ya estoy HARTA de Igor Ivanov! 🤬😡 como lo detesto.
Solo por eso necesito leer el último libro para saber en qué termina toda la historia de los Koslov.
La verdad me sorprendió este libro, no me esperaba algo decente, menos después de haber leído casi toda la serie. Pero la verdad si es bastante adictiva y desde el primer libro quieres desencadenar todo sobre la trama principal de los Koslov.
May 26, 2025
﹙ two stars ﹚
a word to sum up my impression and experience reading this: abrupt. i think half of it has to do with kira cole and callie steven's writing style, but the other half has to do with my really wired and overactive mind and mood as i read this. everything seemed to go by at such a rapid pace at first, which i chalked up to my brain going haywire—but then the ending truly felt so rushed compared to the rest of the book.
however, the rest of the book was good. lev is such a dark, tortured but painfully lovable mmc who is so devoted to elle, and elle was just the right amount of crazy to absolutely fall in love with and become equally obsessed with her stalker. truly, god forbid a girl just wants to make out with the stranger who has been following her for years. the first half of this book where she couldn't even see him was so, so delicious. the tension was incredible, and it made the romance and all the spice so much more heightened. i think everything started feeling a bit too ... abrupt in the last quarter of the book as all the bratva plotlines and personal history started to rush in.
despite that though, i think this is absolutely worth a read, even just for the stalking—utter devotion—from lev.
a word to sum up my impression and experience reading this: abrupt. i think half of it has to do with kira cole and callie steven's writing style, but the other half has to do with my really wired and overactive mind and mood as i read this. everything seemed to go by at such a rapid pace at first, which i chalked up to my brain going haywire—but then the ending truly felt so rushed compared to the rest of the book.
however, the rest of the book was good. lev is such a dark, tortured but painfully lovable mmc who is so devoted to elle, and elle was just the right amount of crazy to absolutely fall in love with and become equally obsessed with her stalker. truly, god forbid a girl just wants to make out with the stranger who has been following her for years. the first half of this book where she couldn't even see him was so, so delicious. the tension was incredible, and it made the romance and all the spice so much more heightened. i think everything started feeling a bit too ... abrupt in the last quarter of the book as all the bratva plotlines and personal history started to rush in.
despite that though, i think this is absolutely worth a read, even just for the stalking—utter devotion—from lev.
January 8, 2025
Review of Sinful Scars
Sinful Scars weaves a hauntingly beautiful tale of obsession, vulnerability, and the blurred lines between love and fear. The story follows Lev, a stalker whose fixation on Elle is both chilling and strangely tender. Elle, the object of his obsession, is a compelling character—deeply scarred by the death of her parents and younger brother, both literally and emotionally.
What makes this story captivating is its balance between the dark and the delicate. Lev isn’t just a predator; he’s a broken man grappling with his own demons that, if Elle ever found out, would destroy them both. His actions are undeniably sinister and romantic, but the glimpses into his psyche reveal a complexity that keeps you questioning your moral compass and the truth. Meanwhile, Elle’s journey from fear to defiance is raw and empowering, showcasing her strength even in moments of vulnerability.
The chemistry between Lev and Elle is electric, though it’s anything but conventional. Their interactions are fraught with tension, danger, and an undeniable pull that makes it impossible to look away. The author skillfully builds their dynamic with a mix of suspense and intimacy, leaving readers constantly guessing: is this a story of redemption or inevitable destruction?
The prose is lyrical yet sharp, perfectly mirroring the duality of the characters and the story’s themes. Sinful Scars isn’t just a romance—it’s a dive into the scars we carry from youth to adulthood and the sins we commit in the name of love, obsession, or survival.
If you’re drawn to morally gray characters, dark themes, and stories that make your heart race and your mind question everything, Sinful Scars should be on your reading list.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Sinful Scars weaves a hauntingly beautiful tale of obsession, vulnerability, and the blurred lines between love and fear. The story follows Lev, a stalker whose fixation on Elle is both chilling and strangely tender. Elle, the object of his obsession, is a compelling character—deeply scarred by the death of her parents and younger brother, both literally and emotionally.
What makes this story captivating is its balance between the dark and the delicate. Lev isn’t just a predator; he’s a broken man grappling with his own demons that, if Elle ever found out, would destroy them both. His actions are undeniably sinister and romantic, but the glimpses into his psyche reveal a complexity that keeps you questioning your moral compass and the truth. Meanwhile, Elle’s journey from fear to defiance is raw and empowering, showcasing her strength even in moments of vulnerability.
The chemistry between Lev and Elle is electric, though it’s anything but conventional. Their interactions are fraught with tension, danger, and an undeniable pull that makes it impossible to look away. The author skillfully builds their dynamic with a mix of suspense and intimacy, leaving readers constantly guessing: is this a story of redemption or inevitable destruction?
The prose is lyrical yet sharp, perfectly mirroring the duality of the characters and the story’s themes. Sinful Scars isn’t just a romance—it’s a dive into the scars we carry from youth to adulthood and the sins we commit in the name of love, obsession, or survival.
If you’re drawn to morally gray characters, dark themes, and stories that make your heart race and your mind question everything, Sinful Scars should be on your reading list.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 22, 2025
I am in love with Lev and Elle😍 she has bear so much in her childhood and Lev 🥺🥺 he’s been so lonely and his past is so agonising it breaks my heart
But if we ignore the technicalities this book was worth the ride 😌
And if we get into semantics then I’d say we know about Lev’s obsession with Elle and WHY!
But I felt Elle got on board with the idea of him in a little rush
He protects her so i if someone say he us a stalker i dont have single f**ks to give😒
But how the secrets are revealed I loved it🥰
Also for the love or god can theFMCs pls stop getting pregnant in this series 🤷🏻♀️ 😩
Lev you have my ❤️
But if we ignore the technicalities this book was worth the ride 😌
And if we get into semantics then I’d say we know about Lev’s obsession with Elle and WHY!
But I felt Elle got on board with the idea of him in a little rush
He protects her so i if someone say he us a stalker i dont have single f**ks to give😒
But how the secrets are revealed I loved it🥰
Also for the love or god can theFMCs pls stop getting pregnant in this series 🤷🏻♀️ 😩
Lev you have my ❤️
March 23, 2025
My heart
I can't stop crying Lev deserved so much more than what he suffered. He and Elle will be amazing parents.
I can't stop crying Lev deserved so much more than what he suffered. He and Elle will be amazing parents.
April 3, 2025
Лев Иванов/Козлов/ (30 и нещо) и Ел Канти (20 и нещо)
📣🚨🛑РЕВЮ СЪДЪРЖАЩО СПОЙЛЕРИ🛑🚨📣
Ел губи родителите и брат си в пожар, когато е 8 годишна, а тя незнайно как оцелява. Ел израства при баба си в Италия, а по-късно се мести, за да живее близо до братовчедка си Лусия и чочо си. Ел работи като медицинска сестра в спешно отделение и често взима смени, работейки до изнемога. Но това е така, защото само когато е смъртно изтощена, успява да спи, без кошмарите за смъртта на семейството й да я измъчват непрестанно. Една вечер напускайки клуб, в който е била с прителки, Ел се оказва отвлечена от няколко мъже, които заплашват да я изнасилят. Но в последния момент е спасена от мъж, който не й показва лицето си, и който се оказва, че я е следил от години. Прибирайки се у дома, Ел знае, че трябва са е ужасена от фактът, че има преследвач, но знаейки, че непознатият й спасител е навън в нощта наблюдавайки я, тя се чувства в безопасност. И много скоро, Ел започва да фантазира, че непознатият й преследвач прави много повече от това просто да я наблюдава.
Лев е изрстнал под опеката на жесток баща, Игор Иванов, който обича да го бие и наранява. Израстнал в болка и самота, сега Лев се крие в сенките, далеч от всеки човешки контакт. Животът му е посветен на това да унищожи баща си и да се грижи Ел да е в безопасност. Години наред той я следва, криейки се в сенките. Години наред той се лишава от сън и храна, за да може да я пази. Когато Ел е огвлечена и Лев я спасява, той си позволява една единствена целувка... но сега, вкусил сладостта й, дали Лев ще успее да стои далеч от Ел, както до сега?
Книгата определено не беше това, което очаквах. Лев беше един лишен от сън мъж, който караше на автопилот и се мъчеше да се задържи над водата, докато се давеше и потъваше. Обвит в самота, рядко хранещ се, той живееше единствено за това да следи и пази Ел, той беше обсебен от нея, но дори не си позволяваше да мечтае за общо бъдеще с нея. Той вярваше, че не е достоен за нея, но правеше всичко по силите си да я пази. Обвиняваше се жестоко след отвличането й, нищо, че я спаси на време. Тъй като няма как да разкажа истороята му без да изадм много неща, слагам спойлер.
Честно казано, се дразнех на това как всички се отнасяха гадно с Лев, как го заплашваха и обиждаха. Беше ми толкова тъжно за него, с неговите припадъци, с липсите в паметта, с ужасиите, които беше преживял в ръцете на мъжа, който смяташе за свой баща. Лев беше един физически и психически изтерзан герой и ми идеше да го гушна и да му кажа, просто затвори очи и поспи. Връзката им с Ел беше в двата полюса, от страх, до привличене, от омраза, до любов, и то от страна на Ел, защото Лев живееше само за нея.
За Ел също не беше лесно, тя имаше своите кошмари, от смъртта на родителите й и брат й, от отвличането й, на всичкото отгоре тя се влюби в мъж, чието лице не беше виждала, чието име не знаеше и който беше прекарал последните няколко години следвайки всяка нейна стъпка. И дори не можеше да сподели с най-близкият си човек, Лусия, защото Лусия я съдеше.
А и ми беше странно как Лев беше гледал кал Ел спи с други мъже, но не беше изпитвал ревност, защото са били свалки за една нощ. Свикнала съм мафиотите да са повече собствнически настроени. Но Лев не беше типичния мафиот.
Все пак се радвам, че истината се разбра и като най-после го приеха в семейството, честно разревах се. Толкова се радвам, че белязаният ни из��ъчен герой намери своя щастлив край.
💫Обобщение: 💫
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🎙🎙🎙🎙🎙 Както винаги страхотен дублаж в ДУЕТ озвучен от Джеймс Касиди и Блеър Тачър.
🔢 Част от поредица ли е?
Пета книга от поредицата "Козлов Братва"
📚 Колко завладяваща е историята?
Доста интересна и тъжна.
💪 Главният герой: Лев
Незаконен син на бащата на пакана на Козлов Братва, отгледан от злият Игор Иванов. Силен. Смел. Безстрашен. Преживял мъчения. Самотен. Защитник. Изстрадал е много и вярва, че не заслужава щастие.
🎀 Главната героиня: Ел
Медицинска сестра. Мила. Нежна. Измъчвана от кошмари. Копнееща за семейство и дом. Влюбва се в Лев без дори да знае името му и без да е виждала лицето му.
🫣 Има ли проблем с друг мъж или жена?
Не, никакви.
🤬 Има ли изневяра?
Не.
😏 Колко опит имат героите?
Не се споменава, но е намекнато, че имат опит. Ел не е имала връзка, а само свалки за една нощ. Лев споделя, че е бил влюбен само веднъж, но няма повече информация, предполага се, че говори за Ел.
😔/😁 Настроение по време на книгата?
🤕😥🥰❤️🫣🥺😭❤️🩹❤️🔥
🥵 Колко горещи са секси сцените?
🌶🌶🌶🌶 Всичко на всичко 3 сцени, но доста горещи, с доста фантазиране + 👅 Орално.
💔 Разделят ли се героите за определен период от време?
Реално Лев и Ел се събират на края на книгата, но ако за раздяла гледаме времето в което не са имали контакт след първоначалното им познанство, то има 1 месец раздяла.
😍 Има ли щастлив край?
Да, поревах си от щастие заради Лев.
⚠️ Списък с предупреждения:
🕵♂️Преследвач-Главния герой е следял всяка стъпка на главната героиня през последните няколко години
⛓️Отвличане на главната героиня
💀Насилие над трети лица
☠️Смърт на трети лица
🪦Психическа травма и кошмари след смъртта на родителите на главната героиня
🕳Тежка психическа и физическа травма след насилие в детска и младежка възраст, припадъци и празни петна в паметта на главния герой
🤰Неочаквана бременност
⬅️ Предишна книга? ⬅️
"Sinful Betrayal"
➡️ Следваща книга? ➡️
"Sinful Promise"
📣🚨🛑РЕВЮ СЪДЪРЖАЩО СПОЙЛЕРИ🛑🚨📣
Ел губи родителите и брат си в пожар, когато е 8 годишна, а тя незнайно как оцелява. Ел израства при баба си в Италия, а по-късно се мести, за да живее близо до братовчедка си Лусия и чочо си. Ел работи като медицинска сестра в спешно отделение и често взима смени, работейки до изнемога. Но това е така, защото само когато е смъртно изтощена, успява да спи, без кошмарите за смъртта на семейството й да я измъчват непрестанно. Една вечер напускайки клуб, в който е била с прителки, Ел се оказва отвлечена от няколко мъже, които заплашват да я изнасилят. Но в последния момент е спасена от мъж, който не й показва лицето си, и който се оказва, че я е следил от години. Прибирайки се у дома, Ел знае, че трябва са е ужасена от фактът, че има преследвач, но знаейки, че непознатият й спасител е навън в нощта наблюдавайки я, тя се чувства в безопасност. И много скоро, Ел започва да фантазира, че непознатият й преследвач прави много повече от това просто да я наблюдава.
Лев е изрстнал под опеката на жесток баща, Игор Иванов, който обича да го бие и наранява. Израстнал в болка и самота, сега Лев се крие в сенките, далеч от всеки човешки контакт. Животът му е посветен на това да унищожи баща си и да се грижи Ел да е в безопасност. Години наред той я следва, криейки се в сенките. Години наред той се лишава от сън и храна, за да може да я пази. Когато Ел е огвлечена и Лев я спасява, той си позволява една единствена целувка... но сега, вкусил сладостта й, дали Лев ще успее да стои далеч от Ел, както до сега?
Книгата определено не беше това, което очаквах. Лев беше един лишен от сън мъж, който караше на автопилот и се мъчеше да се задържи над водата, докато се давеше и потъваше. Обвит в самота, рядко хранещ се, той живееше единствено за това да следи и пази Ел, той беше обсебен от нея, но дори не си позволяваше да мечтае за общо бъдеще с нея. Той вярваше, че не е достоен за нея, но правеше всичко по силите си да я пази. Обвиняваше се жестоко след отвличането й, нищо, че я спаси на време. Тъй като няма как да разкажа истороята му без да изадм много неща, слагам спойлер.
Честно казано, се дразнех на това как всички се отнасяха гадно с Лев, как го заплашваха и обиждаха. Беше ми толкова тъжно за него, с неговите припадъци, с липсите в паметта, с ужасиите, които беше преживял в ръцете на мъжа, който смяташе за свой баща. Лев беше един физически и психически изтерзан герой и ми идеше да го гушна и да му кажа, просто затвори очи и поспи. Връзката им с Ел беше в двата полюса, от страх, до привличене, от омраза, до любов, и то от страна на Ел, защото Лев живееше само за нея.
За Ел също не беше лесно, тя имаше своите кошмари, от смъртта на родителите й и брат й, от отвличането й, на всичкото отгоре тя се влюби в мъж, чието лице не беше виждала, чието име не знаеше и който беше прекарал последните няколко години следвайки всяка нейна стъпка. И дори не можеше да сподели с най-близкият си човек, Лусия, защото Лусия я съдеше.
А и ми беше странно как Лев беше гледал кал Ел спи с други мъже, но не беше изпитвал ревност, защото са били свалки за една нощ. Свикнала съм мафиотите да са повече собствнически настроени. Но Лев не беше типичния мафиот.
Все пак се радвам, че истината се разбра и като най-после го приеха в семейството, честно разревах се. Толкова се радвам, че белязаният ни из��ъчен герой намери своя щастлив край.
💫Обобщение: 💫
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🎙🎙🎙🎙🎙 Както винаги страхотен дублаж в ДУЕТ озвучен от Джеймс Касиди и Блеър Тачър.
🔢 Част от поредица ли е?
Пета книга от поредицата "Козлов Братва"
📚 Колко завладяваща е историята?
Доста интересна и тъжна.
💪 Главният герой: Лев
Незаконен син на бащата на пакана на Козлов Братва, отгледан от злият Игор Иванов. Силен. Смел. Безстрашен. Преживял мъчения. Самотен. Защитник. Изстрадал е много и вярва, че не заслужава щастие.
🎀 Главната героиня: Ел
Медицинска сестра. Мила. Нежна. Измъчвана от кошмари. Копнееща за семейство и дом. Влюбва се в Лев без дори да знае името му и без да е виждала лицето му.
🫣 Има ли проблем с друг мъж или жена?
Не, никакви.
🤬 Има ли изневяра?
Не.
😏 Колко опит имат героите?
Не се споменава, но е намекнато, че имат опит. Ел не е имала връзка, а само свалки за една нощ. Лев споделя, че е бил влюбен само веднъж, но няма повече информация, предполага се, че говори за Ел.
😔/😁 Настроение по време на книгата?
🤕😥🥰❤️🫣🥺😭❤️🩹❤️🔥
🥵 Колко горещи са секси сцените?
🌶🌶🌶🌶 Всичко на всичко 3 сцени, но доста горещи, с доста фантазиране + 👅 Орално.
💔 Разделят ли се героите за определен период от време?
Реално Лев и Ел се събират на края на книгата, но ако за раздяла гледаме времето в което не са имали контакт след първоначалното им познанство, то има 1 месец раздяла.
😍 Има ли щастлив край?
Да, поревах си от щастие заради Лев.
⚠️ Списък с предупреждения:
🕵♂️Преследвач-Главния герой е следял всяка стъпка на главната героиня през последните няколко години
⛓️Отвличане на главната героиня
💀Насилие над трети лица
☠️Смърт на трети лица
🪦Психическа травма и кошмари след смъртта на родителите на главната героиня
🕳Тежка психическа и физическа травма след насилие в детска и младежка възраст, припадъци и празни петна в паметта на главния герой
🤰Неочаквана бременност
⬅️ Предишна книга? ⬅️
"Sinful Betrayal"
➡️ Следваща книга? ➡️
"Sinful Promise"
January 19, 2025
Sinful Scars is the fifth book of the Kolslov Bratva series. Each book in this series features a different couple and can be read as a standalone, but for better understanding of the world, you might want to read previous books first. A fast paced, thrilling, dark, raw and twisted read. Hang on to your kindle and brace yourself for this tantalizing rollercoaster ride of cravings and heart-stirring emotions and longing. A brilliantly crafted story with two flawed and damage individuals and a twisty and complex storyline that grabs the reader by the throat from the beginning and keeps you riveted and on the edge of your seat. An absorbing addicting and unputdownable read. A definite page turner that will have the reader feeling everything that the characters feel. This is Lev and Elle story which is told from a dual point of view.
An action & adventure romance, dark mafia romance, billionaire romance, organize crime story, contemporary romance, romantic suspense story, lust-at-first-sight story, age gap trope story, enemies-to-lovers, stalker romance, protective alpha hero story, polar opposite attracts story, protector romance, forced proximity romance, Bratva romance, surprise pregnancy romance, hidden identity story with betrayal, lies, deception, darkness, madness, survival, passion, losses, enemies, manipulation, tragedy, trauma, grief, stalking, acceptance, forgiveness, revelations, power and control, obsession, possessiveness, lust, angst, danger, heartbreak, tension, mystery, surprises, unexpected twists and turns, surprise pregnancy, kidnapping, deep dark hidden secrets, suspense, murder, death, bloodshed, violence, healing, passion, action, family, drama, hurt and pain, determination, spice, pawn, attempted rape, physical verbal, mental and psychological abuse, consenual intense rough sex, dominance, submission torture, and love.
Elle Conti was once a Russian mafia princess but she was eight years old she lost her parents and brother to a house and was left as the only survivor. Her uncle Massimo Conti took over as the new Don and she went to Italy to live with her maternal grandmother until she was eighteen year old when she came back to New York to study nursing at NYU and went to live with her uncle. The former Don Massimo has built a powerful infrastructure of weapons in the city and around country with many enemies vying for a piece of the Conti empire. Elle decided on a career in nursing in hopes that it would ease her pain and saves some lives with injuries like her parents. But the only thing that she feels is guilt and survivors remorse from being the only one who made it out of the fire. Because of what happened in her past Elle work is her boyfriend, she doesn't date because she doesn't want to risk getting close to someone in case they leave. Because it hurts and she made a vow to herself a long time ago after her parents died that she would never let herself feel that sort of pain again.
Lev has spent most of his life being treated like nothing more than dirt on the bottom of his father's shoe. His body is littered with scars both on the inside and outside courtesy of Igor Ivanov and he couldn't tell the stories behind each and every one of them if he wanted to Igor made sure of that. Igor treated his other kids like royalty sending them to best school but uses Lev as a punching bag and locked away in the basement without food. He never went to school and didn't learn how to read or do mathematics, everything he knows he thought himself. He never knew why his father hated him so much and one day he asked and got his jawbone broken. Lev met Elle around the time of her family's death and ran into her on subway about two years ago. And from that day on he had been following her in the shadows watching and protecting her from danger. At first he tells himself that it was to keep her safe because you can never tell what can happen in New York City. But before you know it following her became his obsession. Elle is troubled by nightly nightmares of fire and losing her family so she works excessively at at the hospital with long hours so that she could just fall in bed from exhaustion hoping that she will sleep without the nightmares. One Friday after coming off of a forty-eight hour long shift her co-worker asked her to go to the bar with her for a birthday drink.
She stayed until about midnight then call an Uber. Lev had been watching over her the entire time. But when a patron went up to her flirting he could tell that he had made her uncomfortable. He let his rage overtake him instead of his judgment and followed the guy in the restroom and beat him up but when he came out Elle was gone. She was kidnapped by the Uber who took her to a nasty motel outside of town. But he was killed by her feet by the other two Russian men who was waiting for her. Elle was kidnapped by a group in connection with a gang who wants to use Elle as ransom to gain assets from the Conti family. One of the guy was about to rape her when Lev stormed the room killing them and rescuing her. He then took her to his cabin at Rye Lake in the woods to protect her and he could figure out who put the hit out on her. Lev didn't know Elle to recognize him so he made her keep on the blindfold by her captor whenever he was in her presence. They went after Elle instead of Lucia because she was married to a Koslov. His friend and the best private investigator Pyotr gave him the location of where the ten guys from the gang were staying and he went out and kill them, and because the threat was neutralized he took her back to her apartment in the city.
Alexei Koslov has been looking for Lev for years for the death of his parents. He and his family had gotten close a couple of times but Lev cannot afford to let that happen because he must protect Elle from his monstrous, vile, and sadistic father. Pyotr has been following Igor and tells Lev that he was behind the kidnapping of Elle. Alexei is also following Igor and Lev wants to know why. After kissing Lev Elle became addicted to him without even knowing her mystery man. She would do anything to get her fix of him. The two have a connection that they can't deny. The two couldn't deny their attraction and started secretly seeing each other. Lev was beaten to an inch of his life and called his sister who he have not spoken in years who tells her husband. Lev harbor so many secrets that he can't share with her because he know if she learns everything about him it may scare her away. There's so much revelations and shocker that have you gasping for air. It was even more so with him and Alexei. The two found happiness but they had to fight hard for their happily-ever-after.
I received an advanced copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
An action & adventure romance, dark mafia romance, billionaire romance, organize crime story, contemporary romance, romantic suspense story, lust-at-first-sight story, age gap trope story, enemies-to-lovers, stalker romance, protective alpha hero story, polar opposite attracts story, protector romance, forced proximity romance, Bratva romance, surprise pregnancy romance, hidden identity story with betrayal, lies, deception, darkness, madness, survival, passion, losses, enemies, manipulation, tragedy, trauma, grief, stalking, acceptance, forgiveness, revelations, power and control, obsession, possessiveness, lust, angst, danger, heartbreak, tension, mystery, surprises, unexpected twists and turns, surprise pregnancy, kidnapping, deep dark hidden secrets, suspense, murder, death, bloodshed, violence, healing, passion, action, family, drama, hurt and pain, determination, spice, pawn, attempted rape, physical verbal, mental and psychological abuse, consenual intense rough sex, dominance, submission torture, and love.
Elle Conti was once a Russian mafia princess but she was eight years old she lost her parents and brother to a house and was left as the only survivor. Her uncle Massimo Conti took over as the new Don and she went to Italy to live with her maternal grandmother until she was eighteen year old when she came back to New York to study nursing at NYU and went to live with her uncle. The former Don Massimo has built a powerful infrastructure of weapons in the city and around country with many enemies vying for a piece of the Conti empire. Elle decided on a career in nursing in hopes that it would ease her pain and saves some lives with injuries like her parents. But the only thing that she feels is guilt and survivors remorse from being the only one who made it out of the fire. Because of what happened in her past Elle work is her boyfriend, she doesn't date because she doesn't want to risk getting close to someone in case they leave. Because it hurts and she made a vow to herself a long time ago after her parents died that she would never let herself feel that sort of pain again.
Lev has spent most of his life being treated like nothing more than dirt on the bottom of his father's shoe. His body is littered with scars both on the inside and outside courtesy of Igor Ivanov and he couldn't tell the stories behind each and every one of them if he wanted to Igor made sure of that. Igor treated his other kids like royalty sending them to best school but uses Lev as a punching bag and locked away in the basement without food. He never went to school and didn't learn how to read or do mathematics, everything he knows he thought himself. He never knew why his father hated him so much and one day he asked and got his jawbone broken. Lev met Elle around the time of her family's death and ran into her on subway about two years ago. And from that day on he had been following her in the shadows watching and protecting her from danger. At first he tells himself that it was to keep her safe because you can never tell what can happen in New York City. But before you know it following her became his obsession. Elle is troubled by nightly nightmares of fire and losing her family so she works excessively at at the hospital with long hours so that she could just fall in bed from exhaustion hoping that she will sleep without the nightmares. One Friday after coming off of a forty-eight hour long shift her co-worker asked her to go to the bar with her for a birthday drink.
She stayed until about midnight then call an Uber. Lev had been watching over her the entire time. But when a patron went up to her flirting he could tell that he had made her uncomfortable. He let his rage overtake him instead of his judgment and followed the guy in the restroom and beat him up but when he came out Elle was gone. She was kidnapped by the Uber who took her to a nasty motel outside of town. But he was killed by her feet by the other two Russian men who was waiting for her. Elle was kidnapped by a group in connection with a gang who wants to use Elle as ransom to gain assets from the Conti family. One of the guy was about to rape her when Lev stormed the room killing them and rescuing her. He then took her to his cabin at Rye Lake in the woods to protect her and he could figure out who put the hit out on her. Lev didn't know Elle to recognize him so he made her keep on the blindfold by her captor whenever he was in her presence. They went after Elle instead of Lucia because she was married to a Koslov. His friend and the best private investigator Pyotr gave him the location of where the ten guys from the gang were staying and he went out and kill them, and because the threat was neutralized he took her back to her apartment in the city.
Alexei Koslov has been looking for Lev for years for the death of his parents. He and his family had gotten close a couple of times but Lev cannot afford to let that happen because he must protect Elle from his monstrous, vile, and sadistic father. Pyotr has been following Igor and tells Lev that he was behind the kidnapping of Elle. Alexei is also following Igor and Lev wants to know why. After kissing Lev Elle became addicted to him without even knowing her mystery man. She would do anything to get her fix of him. The two have a connection that they can't deny. The two couldn't deny their attraction and started secretly seeing each other. Lev was beaten to an inch of his life and called his sister who he have not spoken in years who tells her husband. Lev harbor so many secrets that he can't share with her because he know if she learns everything about him it may scare her away. There's so much revelations and shocker that have you gasping for air. It was even more so with him and Alexei. The two found happiness but they had to fight hard for their happily-ever-after.
I received an advanced copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 9, 2025
this one was frustrating…
The story if Lev and Elle started out SO good! But I found myself skimming because of the constant waiting around and wondering who he was, or if he should see her again. I didn’t read Nina and Anton’s story because I wasn’t interested, but I thought this one would be so good and it just fell flat. I was really shocked to finally learn about Lev and his connection to the brothers and Igor. I felt so bad about his abuse and being led to believe certain things. When he and Elle finally get together I was SO excited, but then there is this back and forth and it just felt like we ran out of time. The last 30% is a sort of third act break up, a weird get back together moments and steamy scenes that just seemed out of place. We also lose sight of her being a nurse. I wanted more of the forbiddenness of their relationship, before they were discovered. Oh, well. Not sure I will read Danil’s book. We shall see!
The story if Lev and Elle started out SO good! But I found myself skimming because of the constant waiting around and wondering who he was, or if he should see her again. I didn’t read Nina and Anton’s story because I wasn’t interested, but I thought this one would be so good and it just fell flat. I was really shocked to finally learn about Lev and his connection to the brothers and Igor. I felt so bad about his abuse and being led to believe certain things. When he and Elle finally get together I was SO excited, but then there is this back and forth and it just felt like we ran out of time. The last 30% is a sort of third act break up, a weird get back together moments and steamy scenes that just seemed out of place. We also lose sight of her being a nurse. I wanted more of the forbiddenness of their relationship, before they were discovered. Oh, well. Not sure I will read Danil’s book. We shall see!
January 3, 2025
This is the fifth book in a six-book series centered on the Koslov Bratva, with this installment focusing on Lev and Elle. Their story explores the theme of a stalker-turned-protector, as Lev falls deeply for Elle, who is simultaneously drawn to and perplexed by him. As the narrative unfolds, the reason behind their intense connection is revealed. Reading the series in order is crucial to understanding the complex background stories and characters. While the story may lack drama and action, it is well-crafted and easy to follow. The romance is moderately paced, with a spice rating of 2/5, but the couple's chemistry is compelling, making this an enjoyable read. Kira Cole has established herself as a talented author, particularly in her development of characters.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 16, 2025
elle is book 3 fmc's cousin. she's currently working as a nurse. mmc is the half brother of the koslovs whom everyone was trying to find since his stepfather is also igor (the asshole bratva head). he's been abused by his igor since he's the product of an affair. lev stalks elle because he likes/loves her and saves her from a kidnapping attempt. while she stayed with him for a while, he kept her blindfolded. ever since then, he's been even more obsessive with watching her to keep her safe.
THIS SERIES HAS BEEN REDEEMED BY LEV. oh i love lev. i love mmcs that are broken and scarred. he thinks he's undeserving of elle :-(( willing to die if that means she's happy and safe. but as usual, fmc gets pregnant halfway through although this time she isn't kidnapped just force to hide a bit as igor's men waited to kill them
To live is to feel pain. But at some point, your body becomes so numbed by it all that you wonder if you’ll ever feel anything again. If you even want to.
When darkness surrounds me, it’s the memory of her laugh that keeps me sane, her green eyes in my dreams. I used to be haunted by demons, but now I’m haunted by her. It’s selfish of me to seek comfort in her smiles, but I can’t help myself.
Having her so close is making me second guess my decision to let her go. It’s selfish of me to crave her like this, to seek comfort in her touches when she’s only doing it out of obligation. She could never love me like I love her, because ultimately that’s what I feel for Elle. Love.
“Please,” I choke. “I want you to stay. It's the only way I'll sleep.”
But since the blackout, if I don’t physically hear her breathing, I start to panic. At least, that’s how I explain the tightness in my chest and my racing heart whenever I’m not near her.
I can’t keep letting Elle down like this. I need to face the fact that my blackouts are becoming frequent again and longer, which leaves her unprotected and at risk. It’s time I swallow my pride and admit that I’m not enough for her, and I never have been.
“I’ll leave if you want me to,” I manage to say through the lump in my throat. “But I won’t stop watching you, Elle. Not until I’m sure that you’re safe.” “I want you to stay,” she whispers. My head snaps up. “What?” “I want you to stay, Lev.”
My heart may already be broken beyond repair, but walking away from Elle after she looked at me the way she did, as if I mattered, is enough to shatter it completely.
“I can’t give you the life you deserve, Elle,” I choke, a gut-wrenching emptiness swallowing me as I think of the child that now grows inside her. “I don’t care.” “You might say that now, but one day, I promise you will. A life with me… You wouldn’t have one, Elle. I’m not good for you or this baby.”
“I am nothing like Igor. I risked my life to save you that night. He beat me within an inch of my fucking life because I chose to disobey him and go into the fire because I heard your screams.”
“I would give my life for yours if I had to, Elle. Can’t you see how much you mean to me? I…I love you, goddammit!”
“I hate that I’m not enough to keep you safe,” He averts his eyes from mine. “But I promise you, I will do whatever it takes to protect you, Elle. Even if it costs me my own life, I’ll do it. Because without you, my life is worth nothing to me.”
“I love you, Elle. I always have, and I always will.”
“Dushenka, what’s the matter?” “I don’t want to lose you.” She takes my face in her hands, kissing me fiercely. “You will always have me. No matter what happens.”
In another universe, my father brought me back home with him and raised me alongside his boys. I would have grown up in a house like this one and lived a life filled with laughter and fun. But best of all, if ever I was caught in a sticky situation, I would have brothers to call on who would be at my side, no questions asked. There’s a little part of myself in each one of them, and I feel a deep-rooted grief as I think of what could have been.
“Thank you for loving me,” he whispers in my ear as I fall asleep.
THIS SERIES HAS BEEN REDEEMED BY LEV. oh i love lev. i love mmcs that are broken and scarred. he thinks he's undeserving of elle :-(( willing to die if that means she's happy and safe. but as usual, fmc gets pregnant halfway through although this time she isn't kidnapped just force to hide a bit as igor's men waited to kill them
To live is to feel pain. But at some point, your body becomes so numbed by it all that you wonder if you’ll ever feel anything again. If you even want to.
When darkness surrounds me, it’s the memory of her laugh that keeps me sane, her green eyes in my dreams. I used to be haunted by demons, but now I’m haunted by her. It’s selfish of me to seek comfort in her smiles, but I can’t help myself.
Having her so close is making me second guess my decision to let her go. It’s selfish of me to crave her like this, to seek comfort in her touches when she’s only doing it out of obligation. She could never love me like I love her, because ultimately that’s what I feel for Elle. Love.
“Please,” I choke. “I want you to stay. It's the only way I'll sleep.”
But since the blackout, if I don’t physically hear her breathing, I start to panic. At least, that’s how I explain the tightness in my chest and my racing heart whenever I’m not near her.
I can’t keep letting Elle down like this. I need to face the fact that my blackouts are becoming frequent again and longer, which leaves her unprotected and at risk. It’s time I swallow my pride and admit that I’m not enough for her, and I never have been.
“I’ll leave if you want me to,” I manage to say through the lump in my throat. “But I won’t stop watching you, Elle. Not until I’m sure that you’re safe.” “I want you to stay,” she whispers. My head snaps up. “What?” “I want you to stay, Lev.”
My heart may already be broken beyond repair, but walking away from Elle after she looked at me the way she did, as if I mattered, is enough to shatter it completely.
“I can’t give you the life you deserve, Elle,” I choke, a gut-wrenching emptiness swallowing me as I think of the child that now grows inside her. “I don’t care.” “You might say that now, but one day, I promise you will. A life with me… You wouldn’t have one, Elle. I’m not good for you or this baby.”
“I am nothing like Igor. I risked my life to save you that night. He beat me within an inch of my fucking life because I chose to disobey him and go into the fire because I heard your screams.”
“I would give my life for yours if I had to, Elle. Can’t you see how much you mean to me? I…I love you, goddammit!”
“I hate that I’m not enough to keep you safe,” He averts his eyes from mine. “But I promise you, I will do whatever it takes to protect you, Elle. Even if it costs me my own life, I’ll do it. Because without you, my life is worth nothing to me.”
“I love you, Elle. I always have, and I always will.”
“Dushenka, what’s the matter?” “I don’t want to lose you.” She takes my face in her hands, kissing me fiercely. “You will always have me. No matter what happens.”
In another universe, my father brought me back home with him and raised me alongside his boys. I would have grown up in a house like this one and lived a life filled with laughter and fun. But best of all, if ever I was caught in a sticky situation, I would have brothers to call on who would be at my side, no questions asked. There’s a little part of myself in each one of them, and I feel a deep-rooted grief as I think of what could have been.
“Thank you for loving me,” he whispers in my ear as I fall asleep.
February 10, 2025
“Sinful Scars” is the fifth book in the “Koslov Bratva Series.” It is a captivating Russian mafia romance featuring an unconventional “relationship” between Lev and Elle. Lev has been “stalking” Elle for many years to protect her from his father (a word I use loosely), Igor Ivanov, who would not hesitate to kill her. His concerns come to fruition when she is on a night out with her friends from the hospital whilst his attention was occupied by a guy harassing her, she is taken. After Lev rescues her, he is no longer in the shadows and Elle is fully aware of his presence.
“She bites her lower lip, and I’m so mesmerized by her mouth that I don’t realize she’s on her tiptoes, her hands moving to my shoulders to steady herself as she leans in.
I blink, and her lips are on mine.
The touch is hesitant, but when I don’t pull away, she parts her lips, and something inside me snaps. My fingers thread into her dark hair, holding her in place as my tongue gently teases her lower lip in a silent invitation.
Elle parts her lips eagerly and when my tongue brushes against hers, I can’t stop the moan from building in my throat.”
Their unusual relationship develops very quickly despite everything and everyone. Lev finds it hard to trust after the cruelty inflicted upon him over the years by his sadistic father - he was starved and beaten on a regular basis. His hope is Elle - green eyed, dark hair and a smile that lights up his soul, his heart. The woman he dares to love, from afar. Elle is attracted to Lev and only feels safe and secure when she knows he is here. Gradually they give each other their hearts and it is beautiful.
Can their relationship survive the people that do not understand their love and want to destroy them. The story is full of passion, intrigue, betrayal, vengeance, power, control, twists and turns around every corner - most of all love ♥️ There is never a dull moment - you will be hooked! The book goes through moments of the thoughts or possibilities that it could happen to, to extreme violence to the most beautiful tender moments! I’m very happily hooked! I did not want it to end! From page to page, chapter to chapter, I could not put it down - you will metaphorically be on the edge of your chair! Overall, I would highly recommend this book and you will not be disappointed 😊
“She bites her lower lip, and I’m so mesmerized by her mouth that I don’t realize she’s on her tiptoes, her hands moving to my shoulders to steady herself as she leans in.
I blink, and her lips are on mine.
The touch is hesitant, but when I don’t pull away, she parts her lips, and something inside me snaps. My fingers thread into her dark hair, holding her in place as my tongue gently teases her lower lip in a silent invitation.
Elle parts her lips eagerly and when my tongue brushes against hers, I can’t stop the moan from building in my throat.”
Their unusual relationship develops very quickly despite everything and everyone. Lev finds it hard to trust after the cruelty inflicted upon him over the years by his sadistic father - he was starved and beaten on a regular basis. His hope is Elle - green eyed, dark hair and a smile that lights up his soul, his heart. The woman he dares to love, from afar. Elle is attracted to Lev and only feels safe and secure when she knows he is here. Gradually they give each other their hearts and it is beautiful.
Can their relationship survive the people that do not understand their love and want to destroy them. The story is full of passion, intrigue, betrayal, vengeance, power, control, twists and turns around every corner - most of all love ♥️ There is never a dull moment - you will be hooked! The book goes through moments of the thoughts or possibilities that it could happen to, to extreme violence to the most beautiful tender moments! I’m very happily hooked! I did not want it to end! From page to page, chapter to chapter, I could not put it down - you will metaphorically be on the edge of your chair! Overall, I would highly recommend this book and you will not be disappointed 😊
January 3, 2025
Sinful Scars is A Dark Stalker Russian Mafia Romance (Koslov Bratva Book 5 of 6). Is a series but can be read as a standalone.
We’re His Dushenka..
Sinful Scars is A Dark Stalker Russian Mafia Romance (Koslov Bratva Book 5 of 6). Is a series but can be read as a standalone.
We’re back with prior characters in this series. Massimo Conti, Lucia, Alexei, Bianca, Nina and Anton…Zara, Pyotr, Anton and Danil and Dimitri.
In this story we have Lev, our dark, muscled and scarred MMC. Igor Ivanov is his horrible cruel and sadistic father who beat, starved and made Lev into what he is by his actions. After a horrible incident when Lev and Elle were young, Lev went into hiding. And his father has been searching since to make him pay.
And we have Elle Conti our green eyed, dark haired and beautiful MFC. She was saved years ago from an intentional event that haunts her to this day.
Unknown to her she has had a protector watching out for her since that day.
This is a somewhat sad story because of Liv and the life he had with such a cruel father. But, there’s a surprise in store for Liv concerning his “father”.
This book has murder, lies, deceit, kidnapping, sabotage, mafia life, child abuse (MMC), and much more… back with prior characters in this series. Massimo Conti, Lucia, Alexei, Bianca, Nina and Anton…Zara, Pyotr, Anton and Danil and Dimitri.
In this story we have Lev, our dark, muscled and scarred MMC. Igor Ivanov is his horrible cruel and sadistic father who beat, starved and made Lev into what he is by his actions. After a horrible incident when Lev and Elle were young, Lev went into hiding. And his father has been searching since to make him pay.
And we have Elle Conti our green eyed, dark haired and beautiful MFC. She was saved years ago from an intentional event that haunts her to this day.
Unknown to her she has had a protector watching out for her since that day.
This is a somewhat sad story because of Liv and the life he had with such a cruel father. But, there’s a surprise in store for Liv concerning his “father”.
This book has murder, lies, deceit, kidnapping, sabotage, mafia life, child abuse (MMC), and much more….
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
We’re His Dushenka..
Sinful Scars is A Dark Stalker Russian Mafia Romance (Koslov Bratva Book 5 of 6). Is a series but can be read as a standalone.
We’re back with prior characters in this series. Massimo Conti, Lucia, Alexei, Bianca, Nina and Anton…Zara, Pyotr, Anton and Danil and Dimitri.
In this story we have Lev, our dark, muscled and scarred MMC. Igor Ivanov is his horrible cruel and sadistic father who beat, starved and made Lev into what he is by his actions. After a horrible incident when Lev and Elle were young, Lev went into hiding. And his father has been searching since to make him pay.
And we have Elle Conti our green eyed, dark haired and beautiful MFC. She was saved years ago from an intentional event that haunts her to this day.
Unknown to her she has had a protector watching out for her since that day.
This is a somewhat sad story because of Liv and the life he had with such a cruel father. But, there’s a surprise in store for Liv concerning his “father”.
This book has murder, lies, deceit, kidnapping, sabotage, mafia life, child abuse (MMC), and much more… back with prior characters in this series. Massimo Conti, Lucia, Alexei, Bianca, Nina and Anton…Zara, Pyotr, Anton and Danil and Dimitri.
In this story we have Lev, our dark, muscled and scarred MMC. Igor Ivanov is his horrible cruel and sadistic father who beat, starved and made Lev into what he is by his actions. After a horrible incident when Lev and Elle were young, Lev went into hiding. And his father has been searching since to make him pay.
And we have Elle Conti our green eyed, dark haired and beautiful MFC. She was saved years ago from an intentional event that haunts her to this day.
Unknown to her she has had a protector watching out for her since that day.
This is a somewhat sad story because of Liv and the life he had with such a cruel father. But, there’s a surprise in store for Liv concerning his “father”.
This book has murder, lies, deceit, kidnapping, sabotage, mafia life, child abuse (MMC), and much more….
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 11, 2025
This is the best safe stalker romance that I can remember reading. And I don’t say that lightly. I read 1304 books last year and a good number of them were stalker romances.
This book’s greatest strength might be in its characters, particularly Lev and Elle, the MMC and FMC. Elle, despite having born into a mafia family, is very down to earth. She is incredibly relatable; she has a job that she both loves and uses as an excuse to not try for a relationship. She also has her issues like most people (and I do not exclude myself from that number). Because of a family tragedy, she believes all relationships are fleeting and she doesn’t want to risk a relationship that will inevitably end. Elle is likable and although she spends some time as a damsel in distress, she cannot be considered weak. Her love for Lev is a special strength.
What to say about Lev… I could write an entire review about him and still not scratch the surface. I love a complicated character! He is damaged by a childhood of being physically and emotionally abused. He has scars, both inside and out. His love for and obsession with Elle is his saving grace. He has spent years following and watching her and has developed a love for her that actually makes more sense than those in most stalker love stories. He is gentle with her, but will not stop at anything to keep her safe, even contravening her own wishes sometimes. I feel that he moved from pedestal love to real love in the process. If Elle could have chosen her own Safe stalker, I’m sure it would be Lev, whom she grew to love as more than a hero figure.
Every physical interaction between them is powerful and expresses feelings that are as deep as they are complex. When they make love, it’s like a prayer. It’s also extremely hot, made hotter by their feelings for each other.
If I could give this book more than five stars I would. It was rich and delicious. It was complex. It kept me riveted from page to page. One of my criteria for giving a book five stars is if I will remember it for longer than it took me to read it, and I will always remember this love story.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book’s greatest strength might be in its characters, particularly Lev and Elle, the MMC and FMC. Elle, despite having born into a mafia family, is very down to earth. She is incredibly relatable; she has a job that she both loves and uses as an excuse to not try for a relationship. She also has her issues like most people (and I do not exclude myself from that number). Because of a family tragedy, she believes all relationships are fleeting and she doesn’t want to risk a relationship that will inevitably end. Elle is likable and although she spends some time as a damsel in distress, she cannot be considered weak. Her love for Lev is a special strength.
What to say about Lev… I could write an entire review about him and still not scratch the surface. I love a complicated character! He is damaged by a childhood of being physically and emotionally abused. He has scars, both inside and out. His love for and obsession with Elle is his saving grace. He has spent years following and watching her and has developed a love for her that actually makes more sense than those in most stalker love stories. He is gentle with her, but will not stop at anything to keep her safe, even contravening her own wishes sometimes. I feel that he moved from pedestal love to real love in the process. If Elle could have chosen her own Safe stalker, I’m sure it would be Lev, whom she grew to love as more than a hero figure.
Every physical interaction between them is powerful and expresses feelings that are as deep as they are complex. When they make love, it’s like a prayer. It’s also extremely hot, made hotter by their feelings for each other.
If I could give this book more than five stars I would. It was rich and delicious. It was complex. It kept me riveted from page to page. One of my criteria for giving a book five stars is if I will remember it for longer than it took me to read it, and I will always remember this love story.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 6, 2025
🎧 Audiobook review 🎧⚡ Spoilers might lie ahead—I usually like to talk shit about everything that goes down in these books
I skipped a lot, tbh. My heart broke for Lev — poor guy. What he went through was awful, and that final scene? God, it made me melt. He deserved every bit of it.
Now... Alexei. I’m kinda low-key annoyed with him. He was a jerk in Dimitri’s book, and he pulled the same crap here with Lev. Even though he redeemed himself, I still feel like smacking him over the head.
Elle was a weird one for me. Can’t even explain it properly, but what pissed me off the most was her reaction — she was fine being with Lev when she thought he killed the Koslovs’ parents, but when she found out he killed her family (lots of dead parents in this series 😂), she went completely batshit crazy. Even though he didn’t really kill them. Even though he was just a kid dragged there by his terrifying mob-boss father, who tortured him, humiliated him, and basically ruined his life. Even though he risked his life to save her and got beaten to a pulp for it, ending up with a head injury that still causes him blackouts.
Yeah. Hypocrisy at its finest.
I loved the idea of the obsessed, stalkerish mob guy watching over her — and her being attracted to him — but the pacing dragged too much. They spent more time apart than I would’ve liked, and it made it hard for my brain to believe in the romance. Elle’s chapters were kinda boring, and honestly, I’m glad I skipped Lucia and Mikhail's book. I don’t like Lucia at all or how she treated Elle.
And, of course, we have yet another case of missing condoms, missing birth control, missing logic — because, surprise surprise... she gets pregnant.
Duet-style narration was great, though. Both narrators did a fantastic job, and I love that the same cast stayed through the series. I’ll never not listen to anything featuring the smooth, dark, sinful voice of James Cassidy.
I skipped a lot, tbh. My heart broke for Lev — poor guy. What he went through was awful, and that final scene? God, it made me melt. He deserved every bit of it.
Now... Alexei. I’m kinda low-key annoyed with him. He was a jerk in Dimitri’s book, and he pulled the same crap here with Lev. Even though he redeemed himself, I still feel like smacking him over the head.
Elle was a weird one for me. Can’t even explain it properly, but what pissed me off the most was her reaction — she was fine being with Lev when she thought he killed the Koslovs’ parents, but when she found out he killed her family (lots of dead parents in this series 😂), she went completely batshit crazy. Even though he didn’t really kill them. Even though he was just a kid dragged there by his terrifying mob-boss father, who tortured him, humiliated him, and basically ruined his life. Even though he risked his life to save her and got beaten to a pulp for it, ending up with a head injury that still causes him blackouts.
Yeah. Hypocrisy at its finest.
I loved the idea of the obsessed, stalkerish mob guy watching over her — and her being attracted to him — but the pacing dragged too much. They spent more time apart than I would’ve liked, and it made it hard for my brain to believe in the romance. Elle’s chapters were kinda boring, and honestly, I’m glad I skipped Lucia and Mikhail's book. I don’t like Lucia at all or how she treated Elle.
And, of course, we have yet another case of missing condoms, missing birth control, missing logic — because, surprise surprise... she gets pregnant.
Duet-style narration was great, though. Both narrators did a fantastic job, and I love that the same cast stayed through the series. I’ll never not listen to anything featuring the smooth, dark, sinful voice of James Cassidy.
September 3, 2025
I did not expect myself to come to tears over this book! Lev, the poor, tortured, scarred, giant with a heart of gold! OMG I was not ready for Lev's story.
The chemistry between Lev and Elle was so good. He watched over her for years without her knowing keeping her safe. I had a feeling that Lev was the one that saved Elle from the fire when she was a child. It gave so much more meaning to the scars he had. Elle, my girl, questionable decisions like letting your stalker going down on you when you know next to nothing about him - but YOLO. My heart broke for Lev and the years of torture and isolation he faced with Igor as his "father". Even though he was treated so differently from his siblings, he never resented Nina it. I wanted give him a hug when Nina mentioned her family is the Koslov family, once again leaving Lev as an outsider. When Lev accepts his fate, that he was going to die at the hands of his Koslov brothers, I was practically screaming at my Kindle! Danil to the rescue, thank the book gods!
What was beyond annoying is that in the last book Nina was the one from the enemy camp sent to seduce Anton and report back to her father. She betrayed the Koslov family but no one batted an eye and believed what she had to say in her defense. The same people we ready to kill Lev without a second thought. I absolutely lost any love I had for Lucia and Nina to be honest.
The part that gutted me was when Elle asks whether the Koslov's would consider her son a Koslov since obviously they have issues with Lev. I'm glad no one was around while I was reading that part!
3 stars over all but 4 for Lev!!
The chemistry between Lev and Elle was so good. He watched over her for years without her knowing keeping her safe. I had a feeling that Lev was the one that saved Elle from the fire when she was a child. It gave so much more meaning to the scars he had. Elle, my girl, questionable decisions like letting your stalker going down on you when you know next to nothing about him - but YOLO. My heart broke for Lev and the years of torture and isolation he faced with Igor as his "father". Even though he was treated so differently from his siblings, he never resented Nina it. I wanted give him a hug when Nina mentioned her family is the Koslov family, once again leaving Lev as an outsider. When Lev accepts his fate, that he was going to die at the hands of his Koslov brothers, I was practically screaming at my Kindle! Danil to the rescue, thank the book gods!
What was beyond annoying is that in the last book Nina was the one from the enemy camp sent to seduce Anton and report back to her father. She betrayed the Koslov family but no one batted an eye and believed what she had to say in her defense. The same people we ready to kill Lev without a second thought. I absolutely lost any love I had for Lucia and Nina to be honest.
The part that gutted me was when Elle asks whether the Koslov's would consider her son a Koslov since obviously they have issues with Lev. I'm glad no one was around while I was reading that part!
3 stars over all but 4 for Lev!!
September 30, 2025
4.6 ⭐
Wow… Sinful Scars completely pulled me in. This book is dark, intense, and emotionally charged, yet it keeps you hooked from start to finish.
Lev is… complicated. His obsession with Elle is chilling at times, but there’s a depth to him that makes you want to understand him. Elle, on the other hand, is resilient, strong, and heartbreakingly real. Her journey—from fear to defiance—is raw and empowering, and you can’t help but root for her every step of the way.
The tension between Lev and Elle is absolutely electric. It’s dangerous, it’s twisted, it’s addictive. Every interaction had me on the edge of my seat, questioning their next move, and feeling every heartbeat of their connection. The push-and-pull dynamic is executed perfectly—dark, morally gray, and utterly captivating.
The story doesn’t shy away from tough themes. It’s a dive into obsession, scars that run deep, and the consequences of our choices. Yet, amid all the chaos, there’s a strange tenderness that makes it all feel real and grounded.
If you’re into dark romance with complex characters, morally gray heroes, and a story that will haunt you long after you finish, Sinful Scars is a must-read.
P.S. I read this book back in February but I didn't have Goodreads back then
Wow… Sinful Scars completely pulled me in. This book is dark, intense, and emotionally charged, yet it keeps you hooked from start to finish.
Lev is… complicated. His obsession with Elle is chilling at times, but there’s a depth to him that makes you want to understand him. Elle, on the other hand, is resilient, strong, and heartbreakingly real. Her journey—from fear to defiance—is raw and empowering, and you can’t help but root for her every step of the way.
The tension between Lev and Elle is absolutely electric. It’s dangerous, it’s twisted, it’s addictive. Every interaction had me on the edge of my seat, questioning their next move, and feeling every heartbeat of their connection. The push-and-pull dynamic is executed perfectly—dark, morally gray, and utterly captivating.
The story doesn’t shy away from tough themes. It’s a dive into obsession, scars that run deep, and the consequences of our choices. Yet, amid all the chaos, there’s a strange tenderness that makes it all feel real and grounded.
If you’re into dark romance with complex characters, morally gray heroes, and a story that will haunt you long after you finish, Sinful Scars is a must-read.
P.S. I read this book back in February but I didn't have Goodreads back then
January 13, 2025
Sinful Scars is the fifth story in Koslov Bratva series. Sinful Scars follows the journey of Elle and Lev who I found to be quite interesting and intriguing at the same time. I absolutely enjoyed getting to know Elle and Lev as well as seeing their remarkable story unfold before my eyes. The characters are well developed and beautifully executed throughout the story. The chemistry between Elle and Lev is undeniably irresistible to the point where neither one of them could no longer ignore the feelings they have for one another. I absolutely love that Elle and Lev have a happily ever after with them being happy together. I absolutely couldn’t put this book down until I read the last page of the book. This book is fantastically written, well balanced and beautifully executed by Kira Cole. Kira Cole continues to prove what an incredible author, storyteller and writer she is with each book that I have read by her so far. I would absolutely recommend this amazing book for anyone who enjoys reading mafia romances. I can’t wait to see what will come next from Kira Cole in the future.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 7, 2025
This is the 5th story in the Koslov Bratva Series when Lev finds himself rescuing Elle the woman he’s stalked and preyed for years. Elle knows her situation is bad and out of no where a dark angel gets her before she’s sexually assaulted. Lev keeps his identity hidden and Elle wears a blindfold when he helps her. Once Lev finds out who was behind the kidnapping he sets out to protect Elle by watching over her. Lev knows her family has been hunting him for killing their parents but unknown to him there are secrets and lies that could change everyone’s lives. Since Lev was beaten within an inch of his life he’s had unexplainable blackouts and at one point he calls Nina his sister for help after years of no contact. When secrets from the past are revealed do Elle and Lev have an opportunity to make peace with them or move forward with guilt and loneliness. The steamy interactions between Elle and Lev are genuine and something special that will either grow or die in the past. I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 5, 2025
I have been waiting for Lev's story. He is so tortured by his painful past but has made it his goal to protect Elle.
He has been tracking her for years to protect her.
She is kidnapped when she is taking an Uber. Lev was occupied beating up a guy who was harassing Elle. He is able to track her down, kills the kidnappers as she is about to be sexually assaulted.
They develop a relationship which is unusual for both of them.
Lev knows that his father arranged for Elle to be kidnapped.
They are found out by the Koslov family when he has to call his sister Nina who's married to Anton to rescue him after a blackout.
The story is complex with multiple surprises in the plot. There are underlying feelings of guilt with Lev believing he killed the Koslov parents, and also his role in the fire that killed Elle's parents and brother.
This was a hot read with plenty of angst.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
He has been tracking her for years to protect her.
She is kidnapped when she is taking an Uber. Lev was occupied beating up a guy who was harassing Elle. He is able to track her down, kills the kidnappers as she is about to be sexually assaulted.
They develop a relationship which is unusual for both of them.
Lev knows that his father arranged for Elle to be kidnapped.
They are found out by the Koslov family when he has to call his sister Nina who's married to Anton to rescue him after a blackout.
The story is complex with multiple surprises in the plot. There are underlying feelings of guilt with Lev believing he killed the Koslov parents, and also his role in the fire that killed Elle's parents and brother.
This was a hot read with plenty of angst.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 19, 2025
Lev and Elle. Her family is mafia. There was a tragedy and now she feels nothing and over works to feel numb. Because of his upbringing he feels nothing. Hes numb. Until her. His demons have been replaced with her. Its now his mission to follow and keep safe. Hes used to the shadows not crowded loud places, but for her, anything. He knows he cant have her but no one else will either. Shes fighting her own demons and has the feeling shes being watched. Then something happens. You're safe now is whispered in her ear. So he takes her somewhere to keep her safe and so begins their journey
Love OTT protective alpha males and the women who they love dont even know how beautiful they are. Theirs is a love born of wanting. Theres all the mafia chaos, rivals, web of enimies, hiding in secrets, and intriguing and entertaining. A dark, exciting ride of a story.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Love OTT protective alpha males and the women who they love dont even know how beautiful they are. Theirs is a love born of wanting. Theres all the mafia chaos, rivals, web of enimies, hiding in secrets, and intriguing and entertaining. A dark, exciting ride of a story.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 7, 2025
4-⭐️. 2-🔥
❤️🔥Bratva Romance
❤️🔥He falls first
❤️🔥Stalker romance
I really wish I read the previous books in this series before reading this book. I believed that it would have helped me appreciate the other characters more. Also, I think that I would have also had a better idea of who Lev really is. Having said that, however, this book was very good and could in-fact be read as a standalone. Lev is so tortured by his past and the trauma that was inflicted on him by his cruel and despicable father.
Elle is a young, caring woman who works herself to exhaustion as an ER nurse. Never in a million years would she have ever thought that, after a chance encounter two years ago, she would have had a stalker who has kept her safe from all possible dangers.
This is Elle and Lev’s story about two souls who e been hurt be people who should have made them a priority in their lives. Their trauma and hurt bonds them but will the secrets and lies tear them apart?
The character development and story line is well paced. The dual POV is also well done. Never rushed.
I look forward to reading the rest of this series.
I received a free ARC of this book, this review is only my opinion.
❤️🔥Bratva Romance
❤️🔥He falls first
❤️🔥Stalker romance
I really wish I read the previous books in this series before reading this book. I believed that it would have helped me appreciate the other characters more. Also, I think that I would have also had a better idea of who Lev really is. Having said that, however, this book was very good and could in-fact be read as a standalone. Lev is so tortured by his past and the trauma that was inflicted on him by his cruel and despicable father.
Elle is a young, caring woman who works herself to exhaustion as an ER nurse. Never in a million years would she have ever thought that, after a chance encounter two years ago, she would have had a stalker who has kept her safe from all possible dangers.
This is Elle and Lev’s story about two souls who e been hurt be people who should have made them a priority in their lives. Their trauma and hurt bonds them but will the secrets and lies tear them apart?
The character development and story line is well paced. The dual POV is also well done. Never rushed.
I look forward to reading the rest of this series.
I received a free ARC of this book, this review is only my opinion.
January 7, 2025
Hold on to your hats, this rollercoaster of emotions will have you riveted to the pages and not coming up for air until the perfect end!
There is suspense, danger, kidnapping, murder, guilt, stalking, jealousy, abuse, plenty of spice, bottom of your soul meant for each other love and so much more!
You just can’t help having feelings for Lev and Elle, they both had childhood trauma, they both have unresolved mental health issues relating to their childhood and their sizzling chemistry with each other has to overcome ridiculous hurdles, interference from friends and family but most of all their own memories.
One of the best books I’ve read in the last 12 months, drama, intrigue, mystery and romance, read it all in one sitting because I just couldn’t put it down.
I received an advanced reader’s copy of this book via BookSprout and I am writing this review voluntarily
There is suspense, danger, kidnapping, murder, guilt, stalking, jealousy, abuse, plenty of spice, bottom of your soul meant for each other love and so much more!
You just can’t help having feelings for Lev and Elle, they both had childhood trauma, they both have unresolved mental health issues relating to their childhood and their sizzling chemistry with each other has to overcome ridiculous hurdles, interference from friends and family but most of all their own memories.
One of the best books I’ve read in the last 12 months, drama, intrigue, mystery and romance, read it all in one sitting because I just couldn’t put it down.
I received an advanced reader’s copy of this book via BookSprout and I am writing this review voluntarily
January 7, 2025
It was literally teetering on the edge of a five-star review for me and the only reason it didn't was because the ending of it all felt so rushed. Not that it didn't work for it, because it did at least encompass the majority of the problems and wrapped it all up nicely in a bow. But when the majority of the book has been longer and drawn out to give all the details slowly and actually very precisely only to have the ending go *boom*DETAIL*boom*DETAIL*boomboomboom* DETAILS! ... it I don't know if it felt rushed because maybe there was a deadline to finish it or if it's simply how it was written and like I said. It was NOT horrible. It just felt as if the pace of the story changed from 3/4 of the book is all.
Great plot and loved the characters. Will definitely be reading again, even if the ending stays as is :)
Great plot and loved the characters. Will definitely be reading again, even if the ending stays as is :)
February 9, 2025
I am very picky about what I choose to read... So when I read an interconnected standalone I try to make sure it's something I can read all by itself if I don't like the other characters mentioned that will be in the other books... apparently if you want an actual resolution related to the villain you have to read the other books. There is a resolution with the family and the romance but not the actual villain that literally had the fmc kidnapped in the beginning? Not to mention all the other shit that is revealed that he was involved in.
That being said... I didn't NOT like this story... I just would have preferred a better more "full circle" ending. That plus the fact that both the main characters and supporting characters in this all had shitty personalities.. I don't see myself reading more.
That being said... I didn't NOT like this story... I just would have preferred a better more "full circle" ending. That plus the fact that both the main characters and supporting characters in this all had shitty personalities.. I don't see myself reading more.
January 5, 2025
This is a first book by this author for me and I enjoyed it. The back and forth between Lev and Elle keeps you on the end of your seat. I love how Lev protects Elle for years without her knowing and she wears a blindfold around him due to his aversion to having her see him and his scars. The chemistry between this couple is hot and keeps you sucked in and wondering what is going to happen next along with the tangled story of his family and everything he has put up with at the hands of his father. Reading this book makes me want to read about the other family members that have showed up in this book and read their stories. This is a must read if you like that stalker no one can touch her kind of book. It is a must read!!!
January 5, 2025
Sinful Scars is the 5th book in the Koslov Bratva series. This is a dark stalker mafia romance. Kira and Callie continue to blow my mind with this series. The twists, turns and emotional rollercoaster keep you on the edge of your seat. I was captivated from the first page all the way to the end, I had a hard time putting it down. This is the story of Elle and Lev. We were actually introduced to Elle and Lev in the previous books in this series but this book gives us the background for both characters and goes more in depth on their childhood traumas. This book is full of angst, heartache, danger, surprises and lots of spice!! Fantastic addition to the series and I can't wait to see what comes next!!!.
I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 6, 2025
Wow great story! So heart warming.
This was about nurse Elle who had a stalker in Lev and their black history together.
So well done. I loved Lev. He was such a grey anti- hero. He had a dark and abuse history but so loved so deeply even though he felt an outsider. Elle although had a twisted fascination with him she was so in love with him. And he was loveable.
Full of suspense, danger and several intimate moments in this slow build romance. I enjoyed the Koslov brothers and their ladies plus the HEA feel good ending.
Such a brilliant book!!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This was about nurse Elle who had a stalker in Lev and their black history together.
So well done. I loved Lev. He was such a grey anti- hero. He had a dark and abuse history but so loved so deeply even though he felt an outsider. Elle although had a twisted fascination with him she was so in love with him. And he was loveable.
Full of suspense, danger and several intimate moments in this slow build romance. I enjoyed the Koslov brothers and their ladies plus the HEA feel good ending.
Such a brilliant book!!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 8, 2025
A good 5 instalment of the Koslov bratva series! It can be read as a stand alone however characters and the overarching storyline would be better understood from reading the previous books in order first.
Lev and Elle's story is full of heartbreak, loss and sadness but also hope, love and found family, it’s an emotional rollercoaster! I was so engrossed in the storyline I was 70% of the way through it before I realised! A must read! Looking forward to the final instalment of the series with danil’s story next, though I’m going to be sad it’s finished!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Lev and Elle's story is full of heartbreak, loss and sadness but also hope, love and found family, it’s an emotional rollercoaster! I was so engrossed in the storyline I was 70% of the way through it before I realised! A must read! Looking forward to the final instalment of the series with danil’s story next, though I’m going to be sad it’s finished!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 9, 2025
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I was astounded reading this book I couldn't get enough I couldn't put the book down, this really was an amazing story. This story was about Lev and Ella, they had great sparks, now Elle is kidnapped by a horrible person and now a storm is brewing with manipulation, betrayal, lies, secrets, killing. Lev had a horrible upbringing the things he went through by the hands of Igor a brutal man, he came out to protect her but it looks like he was lied to his whole life.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I was astounded reading this book I couldn't get enough I couldn't put the book down, this really was an amazing story. This story was about Lev and Ella, they had great sparks, now Elle is kidnapped by a horrible person and now a storm is brewing with manipulation, betrayal, lies, secrets, killing. Lev had a horrible upbringing the things he went through by the hands of Igor a brutal man, he came out to protect her but it looks like he was lied to his whole life.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 10, 2025
What a wonderfully dark mafia story with a big stalker content. Because of the writing style of the author and the characters I was glued to the journey that Ella and Lev make from the beginning and had trouble putting my book down. We are confronted with betrayal, kidnapping, drama, action, danger. violence, murders and much more. Lev has experienced and undergone a lot due to a very bad childhood and upbringing. He comes to Ella's aid when she is kidnapped. A beautiful story and definitely recommended to read.
I received an Advance Reader copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an Advance Reader copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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