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Devils Will Rise: Melnikov Legacy #4
Born into Temptation
There’s never been a time when I haven’t been in love with Yelena Melnikov.
She was a temptation that I was powerless to resist.
I gave her my heart when we were kids, knowing we’d have to hide our love.
We hid it for years until one night of careless passion leads to a pregnancy.
For me, this changes nothing.
Yelena as my wife, Yelena as the mother of my children…that was always the plan.
I thought telling our family would be the hardest part.
I’ve never been more wrong in my life.
Val has always had my heart.
I thought telling our family would be the hardest thing we’d ever have to go through.
I was wrong.
What we’re about to face is so much worse.
All I ever wanted was Valentin Melnikov as my husband and a houseful of kids,
but now someone is threatening to take all that away from us,
and I’m not sure we’re going to survive it.
This is a very steamy dark mafia romance with some humor mixed in! This is the fourth book in the Melnikov Legacy series. The books are interconnected, but each can easily be read as a standalone. No cheating, no OW drama, and an HEA is always guaranteed! Please see warning at beginning of novel and read responsibly.
She was a temptation that I was powerless to resist.
I gave her my heart when we were kids, knowing we’d have to hide our love.
We hid it for years until one night of careless passion leads to a pregnancy.
For me, this changes nothing.
Yelena as my wife, Yelena as the mother of my children…that was always the plan.
I thought telling our family would be the hardest part.
I’ve never been more wrong in my life.
Val has always had my heart.
I thought telling our family would be the hardest thing we’d ever have to go through.
I was wrong.
What we’re about to face is so much worse.
All I ever wanted was Valentin Melnikov as my husband and a houseful of kids,
but now someone is threatening to take all that away from us,
and I’m not sure we’re going to survive it.
This is a very steamy dark mafia romance with some humor mixed in! This is the fourth book in the Melnikov Legacy series. The books are interconnected, but each can easily be read as a standalone. No cheating, no OW drama, and an HEA is always guaranteed! Please see warning at beginning of novel and read responsibly.
407 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 31, 2025
385 people are currently reading
838 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 270 reviews
February 12, 2025
Stop it! Val and Yel were so freaking cute!! 🥹
I mean, talk about meant to be!!
I love this series, and after that cliffy 😫 I can’t wait to read Max’s book!!
I mean, talk about meant to be!!
I love this series, and after that cliffy 😫 I can’t wait to read Max’s book!!
February 5, 2025
This was kind of okay-ish, I guess. But just like in "Born into Blood," once the MCs get together, things start to feel a bit repetitive and boring because all they seem to do is hop into bed together for most of the time, and there's nothing much else going on.
There's no relationship build-up as it's already been established, but we do get flashbacks from when they were younger. However, even in these past memories, they still mostly revolve around them going at it. I think in the first 60%, more than half of it was all about the physical interactions between Valentin and Yelena. It became so tedious that I had to skim them.
Honestly, I have no idea what to expect from this, but it was such a snooze fest! 😴 I feel like it definitely could have been shorter. These two just didn’t capture my attention. It feels like they don't have much happening in their own lives, and ngl, their codependency kind of rubs me the wrong way. Idk, why though.
Anyway, things only get a little interesting around the 60% when Val and Max got abducted. I'm not saying it's a good thing, but this event breaks the monotonous tone of the plot, so at least something different is about to happen. But I have to say, it was really stressful to read the torture stuff that Val and Max went through. It's impressive how strong they are to last that long, and I’m kind of relieved that Val made it out. Oh, and that ending really caught my attention. It's kind of exciting and intriguing the way the worlds of the two series from this author are about to collide through their children. I really hope nothing too awful happens to Max and Talia, though.
In general, imo, the MCs in this whole series just don't have that depth; they feel a bit one-dimensional. The guys are deep in the bratva and Italian mafia business, while the ladies are like these sheltered princesses/wives and future broodmares (sorry). It's just frustrating because I was really hoping to see more personality from these girls and guys.
Also, this is definitely a ME thing, but why is pregnancy such a big theme for every couple in this series? 🤔 We’re talking about young people in their early 20s here (some are even in their "teen" years); why rush into starting a family so soon? Sure, they wanted it, but I feel like it would’ve been better to wait a bit, maybe in the distant future? I think it would have been more interesting if the MCs had pursued other interests or hobbies, or maybe focused on college instead of jumping straight into starting a family.
Overall, it was okay, not great, but I guess I was just hoping for something a bit more, and it didn't quite meet those expectations. Even though this didn't quite hit the mark for me, I bet there are readers who would really enjoy it.
Book info:
- Organized crime romance
- Childhood friends to lovers
- Each other's first and only
- Kidnapping
- Violence, torture, death
- Threatened miscarriage
- No cheating, OM/OW,
- Separation (1 month due to his captivity)
- HEA (married and pregnant)
PS: I really hope Mia's book takes a different path. She's thinking about joining the family business, and I just hope she doesn't end up in that same situation where, after finding her guy, she becomes a stay-at-home wife and mom. There's nothing wrong with it, but she's really determined to learn and join the business, and I want her character to go after what she wants without being held back by love.
PPS: I'm invested in Max and Talia's book, but I'm more intrigued by Sasha.
There's no relationship build-up as it's already been established, but we do get flashbacks from when they were younger. However, even in these past memories, they still mostly revolve around them going at it. I think in the first 60%, more than half of it was all about the physical interactions between Valentin and Yelena. It became so tedious that I had to skim them.
Honestly, I have no idea what to expect from this, but it was such a snooze fest! 😴 I feel like it definitely could have been shorter. These two just didn’t capture my attention. It feels like they don't have much happening in their own lives, and ngl, their codependency kind of rubs me the wrong way. Idk, why though.
Anyway, things only get a little interesting around the 60% when Val and Max got abducted. I'm not saying it's a good thing, but this event breaks the monotonous tone of the plot, so at least something different is about to happen. But I have to say, it was really stressful to read the torture stuff that Val and Max went through. It's impressive how strong they are to last that long, and I’m kind of relieved that Val made it out. Oh, and that ending really caught my attention. It's kind of exciting and intriguing the way the worlds of the two series from this author are about to collide through their children. I really hope nothing too awful happens to Max and Talia, though.
In general, imo, the MCs in this whole series just don't have that depth; they feel a bit one-dimensional. The guys are deep in the bratva and Italian mafia business, while the ladies are like these sheltered princesses/wives and future broodmares (sorry). It's just frustrating because I was really hoping to see more personality from these girls and guys.
Also, this is definitely a ME thing, but why is pregnancy such a big theme for every couple in this series? 🤔 We’re talking about young people in their early 20s here (some are even in their "teen" years); why rush into starting a family so soon? Sure, they wanted it, but I feel like it would’ve been better to wait a bit, maybe in the distant future? I think it would have been more interesting if the MCs had pursued other interests or hobbies, or maybe focused on college instead of jumping straight into starting a family.
Overall, it was okay, not great, but I guess I was just hoping for something a bit more, and it didn't quite meet those expectations. Even though this didn't quite hit the mark for me, I bet there are readers who would really enjoy it.
Book info:
- Organized crime romance
- Childhood friends to lovers
- Each other's first and only
- Kidnapping
- Violence, torture, death
- Threatened miscarriage
- No cheating, OM/OW,
- Separation (1 month due to his captivity)
- HEA (married and pregnant)
PS: I really hope Mia's book takes a different path. She's thinking about joining the family business, and I just hope she doesn't end up in that same situation where, after finding her guy, she becomes a stay-at-home wife and mom. There's nothing wrong with it, but she's really determined to learn and join the business, and I want her character to go after what she wants without being held back by love.
PPS: I'm invested in Max and Talia's book, but I'm more intrigued by Sasha.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 3, 2025
There are times when I definitely prefer an already established couple because I don’t feel like reading through them getting together so I liked that we got an established couple in this book. Even if their relationship had been a secret for years.
I thought Val and Yelena were so damn cute and sweet. Yelena is such a sweetheart. But Val..omg Val is what book dream boyfriends/husbands are made of. He’s seriously the sweetest guy in the world and he loves Yelena more than anything. Nothing is more important than her and that shows throughout the whole book. I loved how they were each others first EVERYTHING!! Val has loved her since he was 10 and he hasn’t looked at anyone else ever. He’s all about his girl and I loved that.
Now while I loved their relationship because it’s just so pure there were a few things that kept me from giving this book 5 stars. One of them is that this author never gives the women characters a dimensional personality. They usually never have any damn hobbies or interests in anything. There were maybe two that liked to draw but that’s literally it. They don’t talk about their passions or what they like to do and at 21 and younger I feel like that’s so unrealistic. I need these women to have a little more depth!!
Also we have about 6 sex scenes within the first 30% of the book. And then there were flashbacks of them when they were younger and I was so excited for it but then I was disappointed when two of those flashbacks were more sex scenes. Like we don’t need past and present sex scenes. They are hot and well written, yes, but I don’t need 20 minute chapters of sex over and over again.
The problem with it being an established couple that doesn’t have any drama within the couple is that it can get a little boring and for me it did. It didn’t really pick up for me until about 60%.
Honestly my favorite parts were when we see Vitaly (Val’s dad) he’s literally my favorite character this author has ever written and I love the scenes he’s in because he’s just the funniest guy ever.
Don’t get me wrong I did like the book but I just had some thing I didn’t like as well.
Also I know Max’s book is next but I need Sasha’s book stat!! I need me a psychopath who has no interest in sex lol. Also I’m so happy that as of now none of the future characters are manwhores, I’m loving that so much!!
NO CHEATING
NO OP DRAMA
NO THIRD ACT BREAK UP
MISCARRIAGE SCARE (it’s in the authors TW)
KIDNAPPING
TORTURE
MURDER
I thought Val and Yelena were so damn cute and sweet. Yelena is such a sweetheart. But Val..omg Val is what book dream boyfriends/husbands are made of. He’s seriously the sweetest guy in the world and he loves Yelena more than anything. Nothing is more important than her and that shows throughout the whole book. I loved how they were each others first EVERYTHING!! Val has loved her since he was 10 and he hasn’t looked at anyone else ever. He’s all about his girl and I loved that.
Now while I loved their relationship because it’s just so pure there were a few things that kept me from giving this book 5 stars. One of them is that this author never gives the women characters a dimensional personality. They usually never have any damn hobbies or interests in anything. There were maybe two that liked to draw but that’s literally it. They don’t talk about their passions or what they like to do and at 21 and younger I feel like that’s so unrealistic. I need these women to have a little more depth!!
Also we have about 6 sex scenes within the first 30% of the book. And then there were flashbacks of them when they were younger and I was so excited for it but then I was disappointed when two of those flashbacks were more sex scenes. Like we don’t need past and present sex scenes. They are hot and well written, yes, but I don’t need 20 minute chapters of sex over and over again.
The problem with it being an established couple that doesn’t have any drama within the couple is that it can get a little boring and for me it did. It didn’t really pick up for me until about 60%.
Honestly my favorite parts were when we see Vitaly (Val’s dad) he’s literally my favorite character this author has ever written and I love the scenes he’s in because he’s just the funniest guy ever.
Don’t get me wrong I did like the book but I just had some thing I didn’t like as well.
Also I know Max’s book is next but I need Sasha’s book stat!! I need me a psychopath who has no interest in sex lol. Also I’m so happy that as of now none of the future characters are manwhores, I’m loving that so much!!
NO CHEATING
NO OP DRAMA
NO THIRD ACT BREAK UP
MISCARRIAGE SCARE (it’s in the authors TW)
KIDNAPPING
TORTURE
MURDER
May 5, 2025
Es mi primer acercamiento a la autora y es por una LC y me gustó, si me animaría a leer los demás y más al papá de Val🤭
Al principio como que me aburrió jaja era MUY perfecto todo, y seguía perfecto hasta más de la mitad del libro y lo sentí muy empalagoso, el único drama era la situación de su relación pero más nada.
El Secuestro a ambos primos le subió mucho y más todo lo que tuvieron que aguantar la familia, incluso su padre ya no era el mismo (sus bromas🥲), ellos siendo golpeados continuamente pero aún así protegiéndose y cuidando a Thalia 😭
Aunque me hubiera gustado leer un epílogo más en familia ya con su bebé, cuando por fin iban a ser oficiales y esposos, van y me lo secuestran.
Ojalá pronto el libro de Sasha y Max (¿Sigues vivo? 😭)
Al principio como que me aburrió jaja era MUY perfecto todo, y seguía perfecto hasta más de la mitad del libro y lo sentí muy empalagoso, el único drama era la situación de su relación pero más nada.
El Secuestro a ambos primos le subió mucho y más todo lo que tuvieron que aguantar la familia, incluso su padre ya no era el mismo (sus bromas🥲), ellos siendo golpeados continuamente pero aún así protegiéndose y cuidando a Thalia 😭
Aunque me hubiera gustado leer un epílogo más en familia ya con su bebé, cuando por fin iban a ser oficiales y esposos, van y me lo secuestran.
Ojalá pronto el libro de Sasha y Max (¿Sigues vivo? 😭)
February 23, 2025
2,5 💫 | Odio con todo mi ser cuando un libro no me gusta. Esperaba que Val y Yelena fueran mis favoritos 😭. Pero bno, así pasa cuando sucede.
No es que no me gustaran, sino más bien que como ya llevamos viendo la relación que se traen a lo largo de los libros anteriores, pues sabes que ya se quieren y todo el asunto.
Yo AMO el insta love, no me molesta leerlo. A veces solo necesito leer un hombre protector, hot y que se enamore de la protagonista apenas la vea 🙏🙏🙏 pero aquí idk, no me convenció 😩.
Eso sí, siempre me encantará leer sobre todos, he creado una relación insana a la familia Melnikov, no me preguntes porque, la verdad no sé jskajak.
Anyway, aun así los libros de todos los que faltan me emocionan y me los leeré con gusto.
Es seguro que el de Max sea el siguiente, y espero que luego siga Sasha, ese chico me tiene super intrigada, osea, nunca ha demostrado interés por ninguna mujer ni por el sexo, solo por la violencia (tortura) así que leerlo enamorado será curioso. (En mi cabeza, Sasha es gay, al igual que Mia es bisexual, pero ya vi con quien estará ella sooo miedo).
Ranking:
💕 Luka y Lara.
💕 Vitya y Sveta.
💕 (Ni idea, me debato entre Val y Yel o Dom y Natalya).
*Spoiler*
Una cosa que me gustó fue el hecho de que en lugar de secuestrar a la chica, esta vez fueron ellos. Suena mal pero me cansa ver que siempre son ellas jakajja. Y si me dieron cosita, en cuanto a Found Family, Sonja lo hace muy bien.
No es que no me gustaran, sino más bien que como ya llevamos viendo la relación que se traen a lo largo de los libros anteriores, pues sabes que ya se quieren y todo el asunto.
Yo AMO el insta love, no me molesta leerlo. A veces solo necesito leer un hombre protector, hot y que se enamore de la protagonista apenas la vea 🙏🙏🙏 pero aquí idk, no me convenció 😩.
Eso sí, siempre me encantará leer sobre todos, he creado una relación insana a la familia Melnikov, no me preguntes porque, la verdad no sé jskajak.
Anyway, aun así los libros de todos los que faltan me emocionan y me los leeré con gusto.
Es seguro que el de Max sea el siguiente, y espero que luego siga Sasha, ese chico me tiene super intrigada, osea, nunca ha demostrado interés por ninguna mujer ni por el sexo, solo por la violencia (tortura) así que leerlo enamorado será curioso. (En mi cabeza, Sasha es gay, al igual que Mia es bisexual, pero ya vi con quien estará ella sooo miedo).
Ranking:
💕 Luka y Lara.
💕 Vitya y Sveta.
💕 (Ni idea, me debato entre Val y Yel o Dom y Natalya).
*Spoiler*
Una cosa que me gustó fue el hecho de que en lugar de secuestrar a la chica, esta vez fueron ellos. Suena mal pero me cansa ver que siempre son ellas jakajja. Y si me dieron cosita, en cuanto a Found Family, Sonja lo hace muy bien.
December 7, 2025
I loved this book so much! Val and Yelena were literally born to be together. My heart broke for them every time they had to hide from everyone. They are just a perfect match on every level.
Things I loved:
- All the intimate care he gives her just melted me, I swooned hard for this man!
- Her sex drive was high! In all the other books, she was so quiet, introverted, and sweet, I was worried that she would be a boring female character. But when it's just Yel and Val, she comes alive, and it's a beautiful thing!
- Getting to know the younger cousins more especially Sasha, Evgeny, Niki, and Damian. Sonja's characters are so dynamic and different from each other. Even though there are 11 cousins who are all getting books, each of their voices really come through, and I love that.
- Sasha's book is going to be amazing! He had many moments in this book that really showed us who he is. His chameleon moment was pure gold! I just love him!
- The flashbacks were just chef's kiss! I loved reading about when they were young and growing up. And when they would reference different moments in their relationship. They are 21 years old and have been together 11 years.... there is a lot of history there! And I loved every single piece of it that we got.
- Sveta and her news! She is such a mini- Vitaly, and every time she comes up in any book, it's great!!
- Val and Yelena wedding planning with Evgeny! I love how close they all are! And that Evgeny stayed with Yelena when Val couldn't be there.
- Max and everything we found out about him and what will be coming his book! Thank goodness his book will be next!! The surprise twist around his girl is AMAZING and PERFECT!!!! I can't wait!!!
Things I liked less, but I know they are important to the story and still worked really well in this book:
- That Yelena was so afraid to tell her parents. In all the previous books, she had a really great relationship with them, especially her dad. But she was still SUPER afraid to tell them, like it would cause them to not love her. It was resolved and good, but it seemed a little weird to me.
- the kidnapping. I just hate when the main characters get kidnapped. But it was done really well and stayed true to the personalities of the characters. And obviously extremely necessary to the plot of this book and following books.
- that it wasn't longer. I wasn't ready for it to be over. I loved it so much!
Everyone should read this book!! I will be reading it over and over again! I laughed I cried I wanted to throw my kindle, it was great!!
I received an arc of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own!
Things I loved:
- All the intimate care he gives her just melted me, I swooned hard for this man!
- Her sex drive was high! In all the other books, she was so quiet, introverted, and sweet, I was worried that she would be a boring female character. But when it's just Yel and Val, she comes alive, and it's a beautiful thing!
- Getting to know the younger cousins more especially Sasha, Evgeny, Niki, and Damian. Sonja's characters are so dynamic and different from each other. Even though there are 11 cousins who are all getting books, each of their voices really come through, and I love that.
- Sasha's book is going to be amazing! He had many moments in this book that really showed us who he is. His chameleon moment was pure gold! I just love him!
- The flashbacks were just chef's kiss! I loved reading about when they were young and growing up. And when they would reference different moments in their relationship. They are 21 years old and have been together 11 years.... there is a lot of history there! And I loved every single piece of it that we got.
- Sveta and her news! She is such a mini- Vitaly, and every time she comes up in any book, it's great!!
- Val and Yelena wedding planning with Evgeny! I love how close they all are! And that Evgeny stayed with Yelena when Val couldn't be there.
- Max and everything we found out about him and what will be coming his book! Thank goodness his book will be next!! The surprise twist around his girl is AMAZING and PERFECT!!!! I can't wait!!!
Things I liked less, but I know they are important to the story and still worked really well in this book:
- That Yelena was so afraid to tell her parents. In all the previous books, she had a really great relationship with them, especially her dad. But she was still SUPER afraid to tell them, like it would cause them to not love her. It was resolved and good, but it seemed a little weird to me.
- the kidnapping. I just hate when the main characters get kidnapped. But it was done really well and stayed true to the personalities of the characters. And obviously extremely necessary to the plot of this book and following books.
- that it wasn't longer. I wasn't ready for it to be over. I loved it so much!
Everyone should read this book!! I will be reading it over and over again! I laughed I cried I wanted to throw my kindle, it was great!!
I received an arc of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own!
November 10, 2025
First of all, what did you do Sonja?! 🤯
This definitely became my favorite book in the series, it's wonderful!
The love between Yelena and Valentin is so pure and true, that seeing every memory of their childhood together made me love them even more. Although I must admit that I cried a lot when Val forced her to leave, my heart broke with Yelena's at that moment. ❤️🩹🥺
Thank you for this work of art, Sonja! It was worth every day of waiting and I look forward to the next book.🙂↕️❤️ (since I finished the book I feel empty and sad, voy a extrañar tanto a mis bebés).
This definitely became my favorite book in the series, it's wonderful!
The love between Yelena and Valentin is so pure and true, that seeing every memory of their childhood together made me love them even more. Although I must admit that I cried a lot when Val forced her to leave, my heart broke with Yelena's at that moment. ❤️🩹🥺
Thank you for this work of art, Sonja! It was worth every day of waiting and I look forward to the next book.🙂↕️❤️ (since I finished the book I feel empty and sad, voy a extrañar tanto a mis bebés).
February 1, 2025
SPOILERS!!
Also it’s 3am, apologies for my attempt at this review pls
Ahhh that ending!! A HFN for Val and Yel and a cliffhanger for the plot. We didn’t even get Val and Yel in the epilogue!
Worlds collide though and the Medvedev Bratva is coming to town to join up with the Melnikovs to fuck up the cartel in the next book! (Max Melnikov and Talia Medvedev are being held hostage together) My head is gonna be fried trying to keep up with everyone and who’s who cus there’s already a million Melnikovs ffs but I wish this was a completed series so I could jump straight into it.
-Dual pov- h & H and we got a Vitaly pov chapter
-h20 H21
-each others first and only everything
-pregnancy
-kidnapping and torture of the H
-miscarriage scare for h
-HFN
-Epilogue is Max’s pov, he’s still being held hostage with Talia and hoping for rescue
Also it’s 3am, apologies for my attempt at this review pls
Ahhh that ending!! A HFN for Val and Yel and a cliffhanger for the plot. We didn’t even get Val and Yel in the epilogue!
Worlds collide though and the Medvedev Bratva is coming to town to join up with the Melnikovs to fuck up the cartel in the next book! (Max Melnikov and Talia Medvedev are being held hostage together) My head is gonna be fried trying to keep up with everyone and who’s who cus there’s already a million Melnikovs ffs but I wish this was a completed series so I could jump straight into it.
-Dual pov- h & H and we got a Vitaly pov chapter
-h20 H21
-each others first and only everything
-pregnancy
-kidnapping and torture of the H
-miscarriage scare for h
-HFN
-Epilogue is Max’s pov, he’s still being held hostage with Talia and hoping for rescue
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 27, 2025
4 ⭐ subió solo por lo del secuestro🫢
HAY SPOILERS!
En cierta medida me interesaba esta pareja por saber cómo habían aguantado tanto con la relación secreta. No me pareció taboo su relación pero puedo entender porque sí lo puede ser.
Me parecieron muy lindo pero la verdad me aburrió cuando volvían al pasado, pero fueron escenas importantes como: el primer beso o la primera vez que cogieron. Pero aún así estaba medio meh hasta que pasó lo del secuestro. Me gustó porque fue a ellos y no a las mujeres como siempre.
Ahora solo espero que salga rápido el siguiente libro (la autora en ig digo que más o menos serán 3 meses después de este) y que no les pase nada más. De verdad espero que sea justo después del epílogo de aquí que los rescaten, porque se están demorando mucho y tengo miedo porque le hagan algo peor a Talia. Y me alegra saber que la autora también en ig dijo que Sasha va a tener su libro jajajajja me gustaría tanto que la otra persona también fuera un poquito psicópata, para ver cómo congenian.
HAY SPOILERS!
En cierta medida me interesaba esta pareja por saber cómo habían aguantado tanto con la relación secreta. No me pareció taboo su relación pero puedo entender porque sí lo puede ser.
Me parecieron muy lindo pero la verdad me aburrió cuando volvían al pasado, pero fueron escenas importantes como: el primer beso o la primera vez que cogieron. Pero aún así estaba medio meh hasta que pasó lo del secuestro. Me gustó porque fue a ellos y no a las mujeres como siempre.
Ahora solo espero que salga rápido el siguiente libro (la autora en ig digo que más o menos serán 3 meses después de este) y que no les pase nada más. De verdad espero que sea justo después del epílogo de aquí que los rescaten, porque se están demorando mucho y tengo miedo porque le hagan algo peor a Talia. Y me alegra saber que la autora también en ig dijo que Sasha va a tener su libro jajajajja me gustaría tanto que la otra persona también fuera un poquito psicópata, para ver cómo congenian.
Read
January 27, 2025This has both v lead ( first and only in everything) 🖤
excited to read this 🤧
excited to read this 🤧
March 5, 2025
No se porque, pero esperaba muchísimo más de este libro. Creo que disfruté únicamente las partes donde no incluían a Val y Yelena juntos jajaja, perdón por eso. Pero de verdad sentí que iba todo muy lindo con su relación a lo largo de su crecimiento, que me empalagó demasiado.
Me encantó el plow twist y todo sobre la guerra con el cartel, creo que es lo que permitió que se salvara este libro, juro que estuve a nada de dejarlo sin terminar, me tomó demasiado. Pero me encanta todo sobre el universo de los Melnikov.
Sasha me tiene tan intrigada, espero que saquen un libro de el, y estoy segura que tiene que ser un personaje OBSESIONADO con su mujer. 🔥🤌🏼 Perdónenme, pero tengo una fascinación por los hombres dañados y psychos en los libros.
También estoy esperando que exista el libro de Mia y Darío, estoy segura que Mia va a ser un verdadero dolor de cabeza para Darío jajaja.
Me encantó el plow twist y todo sobre la guerra con el cartel, creo que es lo que permitió que se salvara este libro, juro que estuve a nada de dejarlo sin terminar, me tomó demasiado. Pero me encanta todo sobre el universo de los Melnikov.
Sasha me tiene tan intrigada, espero que saquen un libro de el, y estoy segura que tiene que ser un personaje OBSESIONADO con su mujer. 🔥🤌🏼 Perdónenme, pero tengo una fascinación por los hombres dañados y psychos en los libros.
También estoy esperando que exista el libro de Mia y Darío, estoy segura que Mia va a ser un verdadero dolor de cabeza para Darío jajaja.
November 26, 2025
5 BLAZING 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
I read book two of this series and eventhough I liked the characters and the premise but it was very vanilla Mafia and OTT instalove for me. But I was intrigued about Yelena's and Val's book.
And let me tell you, this book? This book has everything!!!!
👫 The flashbacks to when they fell in love as kids. ADORABLE!!!
😨 The angst, the pining and the fear of their taboo love being discovered. ANGSTY!!!
👶🏻 The surprise baby, the confrontation and the shock. HEARTWRENCHING!!!!
🙊 And finally the gore, torture and pain. So much descriptive pain. GUTTING!!!
And I thought she writes Vanilla Mafia! What an embarrassing slap to the face 🥴
I am not going into details because I really really want to forget some of it so that I can reread it in the future. (Although I doubt I'll forget anything about this book)
Sonja Grey's writing is so engaging. She uses such descriptive moments, detailed scenes, nothing is left to the imagination because Sonja weaves a beautiful web that you find yourself entangled in.
It's a burst of emotions, realistic and surprising. Loved every second.
This is truly a soulmates love story. These two were meant for each other no matter the odds. No one could keep them apart, not even the most dangerous Cartel in the world.
"I'm not mad at you, Yelena. I'm not going to lie and say you didn't shock the hell out of me tonight, but I'm not mad. I was never mad."
"Are you upset because I lied. I'm so sorry, Dad." Tears spill from my eyes again as my dad swipes a scarred hand over his face, wiping away his own tears. When he looks at me, his eyes are glassy, but he's keeping himself in check better than I am.
"No, honey. I'm just sad that you felt you had to." His dark eyes search mine. "It breaks my heart that you felt you couldn't come to us, and it kills me that you spent even one second worrying that we might be mad or disappointed in you."
He shakes his head, and the pain in his eyes nearly guts me. "I feel like I've failed as a parent."
"Dad," I start to say, but my voice breaks, so instead I just close the distance and wrap my arms around him. He holds me while I cry....
Ticking another Fall/Winter 🍁❄️ Bingo square:
08) "Orange book cover" Look at that beautiful title written in bold Orange 😁 and it's Temptation nonetheless Gloria and Shaz do your magic 🎩✨️🪄🔨
🔴 | 🔴 | 30 | 🔴 | 🔴 | 20
🔴 | 🔴 | 31 | 14 | 25 | 🔴
19 | 🔴 | 13 | 🔴 | 🔴 | 35
🔴 | 🔴 | 12 | 🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴
🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴
🔴 | 🔴 | 18 | 🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴
I read book two of this series and eventhough I liked the characters and the premise but it was very vanilla Mafia and OTT instalove for me. But I was intrigued about Yelena's and Val's book.
And let me tell you, this book? This book has everything!!!!
👫 The flashbacks to when they fell in love as kids. ADORABLE!!!
😨 The angst, the pining and the fear of their taboo love being discovered. ANGSTY!!!
👶🏻 The surprise baby, the confrontation and the shock. HEARTWRENCHING!!!!
🙊 And finally the gore, torture and pain. So much descriptive pain. GUTTING!!!
And I thought she writes Vanilla Mafia! What an embarrassing slap to the face 🥴
I am not going into details because I really really want to forget some of it so that I can reread it in the future. (Although I doubt I'll forget anything about this book)
Sonja Grey's writing is so engaging. She uses such descriptive moments, detailed scenes, nothing is left to the imagination because Sonja weaves a beautiful web that you find yourself entangled in.
It's a burst of emotions, realistic and surprising. Loved every second.
This is truly a soulmates love story. These two were meant for each other no matter the odds. No one could keep them apart, not even the most dangerous Cartel in the world.
"I'm not mad at you, Yelena. I'm not going to lie and say you didn't shock the hell out of me tonight, but I'm not mad. I was never mad."
"Are you upset because I lied. I'm so sorry, Dad." Tears spill from my eyes again as my dad swipes a scarred hand over his face, wiping away his own tears. When he looks at me, his eyes are glassy, but he's keeping himself in check better than I am.
"No, honey. I'm just sad that you felt you had to." His dark eyes search mine. "It breaks my heart that you felt you couldn't come to us, and it kills me that you spent even one second worrying that we might be mad or disappointed in you."
He shakes his head, and the pain in his eyes nearly guts me. "I feel like I've failed as a parent."
"Dad," I start to say, but my voice breaks, so instead I just close the distance and wrap my arms around him. He holds me while I cry....
Ticking another Fall/Winter 🍁❄️ Bingo square:
08) "Orange book cover" Look at that beautiful title written in bold Orange 😁 and it's Temptation nonetheless Gloria and Shaz do your magic 🎩✨️🪄🔨
🔴 | 🔴 | 30 | 🔴 | 🔴 | 20
🔴 | 🔴 | 31 | 14 | 25 | 🔴
19 | 🔴 | 13 | 🔴 | 🔴 | 35
🔴 | 🔴 | 12 | 🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴
🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴
🔴 | 🔴 | 18 | 🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴
January 29, 2025
Yelena and Valentin have been raised as cousins, non blood related, children of the Melnikov brothers chosen family. However, since they were children, the love they felt for each other only grew, culminating in the most passionate, devotional hidden love. They have kept their relationship a secret, fearing their family’s reaction, but things needed to change when a surprise forced their hands.
This book was an absolute delight to read. I’ve been waiting for this book since reading the first Melnikov Legacy book. Val & Yel’s secret but obvious love for each other was so intriguing. I couldn’t put the book down and finished it in 24h. Val was an utter dream man, the way he irrevocably loved and put Yelena first was so swoon worthy. Yelena was a sweet but strong and resilient FMC who returned Val’s love tenfold. The passion yet sweetness of their relationship brought me to tears several times while reading.
One of my favourite aspects of this book were the flashbacks to Val & Yel’s childhood and adolescence. Seeing how their love blossomed over the years was very gratifying to read.
As for other books of the series, this didn’t lack in action, suspense and very enjoyable family moments with the Melnikovs. Sonja Grey writes the most beautiful intimate scenes and this was a perfect display of spicy and captivating dark mafia romance.
Can’t wait for Max’s book!
🖤 Russian Bratva romance
🖤 Surprise pregnancy
🖤 First and only love
🖤 They only have ever “been” with each other
🖤 Touch her and ☠️
🖤 She’s his reason for breathing
🖤 No 3rd act breakup or miscommunication trope!
🖤 No cheating or OW drama!
-- I have kindly been provided an ARC from the author. This is my honest review --
This book was an absolute delight to read. I’ve been waiting for this book since reading the first Melnikov Legacy book. Val & Yel’s secret but obvious love for each other was so intriguing. I couldn’t put the book down and finished it in 24h. Val was an utter dream man, the way he irrevocably loved and put Yelena first was so swoon worthy. Yelena was a sweet but strong and resilient FMC who returned Val’s love tenfold. The passion yet sweetness of their relationship brought me to tears several times while reading.
One of my favourite aspects of this book were the flashbacks to Val & Yel’s childhood and adolescence. Seeing how their love blossomed over the years was very gratifying to read.
As for other books of the series, this didn’t lack in action, suspense and very enjoyable family moments with the Melnikovs. Sonja Grey writes the most beautiful intimate scenes and this was a perfect display of spicy and captivating dark mafia romance.
Can’t wait for Max’s book!
🖤 Russian Bratva romance
🖤 Surprise pregnancy
🖤 First and only love
🖤 They only have ever “been” with each other
🖤 Touch her and ☠️
🖤 She’s his reason for breathing
🖤 No 3rd act breakup or miscommunication trope!
🖤 No cheating or OW drama!
-- I have kindly been provided an ARC from the author. This is my honest review --
January 27, 2025
MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS!!!!!
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Okay first off, Sonja Grey, Author you made me smile, blush, laugh, cry and cry some more, and I’m not for sure how I feel about that!!!! 😆😅
Wow I just loved this book so much. It was so good to read the flash backs to see alittle back story on their love story. Val truly treated Yel as his queen even when they were kids! I loved to see how all the parents reacted and the humor from Vitaly, he really tortured poor Matvey about Val and Yel, and they been doing 😉. When Val got kidnapped, all I was doing while reading since that part was crying. And I was still crying when he finally came home to Yel.
Sasha- I’m so excited about his book and how the girl who catches his eye will be able to handle his “ chameleon” personality he has or will he be completely different for her.
Mia- We all know who is keeping an eye on her 👀.
Max- I can’t to read his book with Talia!!!
Truth be told, I can’t wait for all these books to come out! Sonja thank you so much for writing another amazing book, and so you know I’m very sad that I will be suffering waiting for your next book!
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⚠️⚠️⚠️⚠️⚠️⚠️⚠️
🫡
Okay first off, Sonja Grey, Author you made me smile, blush, laugh, cry and cry some more, and I’m not for sure how I feel about that!!!! 😆😅
Wow I just loved this book so much. It was so good to read the flash backs to see alittle back story on their love story. Val truly treated Yel as his queen even when they were kids! I loved to see how all the parents reacted and the humor from Vitaly, he really tortured poor Matvey about Val and Yel, and they been doing 😉. When Val got kidnapped, all I was doing while reading since that part was crying. And I was still crying when he finally came home to Yel.
Sasha- I’m so excited about his book and how the girl who catches his eye will be able to handle his “ chameleon” personality he has or will he be completely different for her.
Mia- We all know who is keeping an eye on her 👀.
Max- I can’t to read his book with Talia!!!
Truth be told, I can’t wait for all these books to come out! Sonja thank you so much for writing another amazing book, and so you know I’m very sad that I will be suffering waiting for your next book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 2, 2025
2.5 ⭐️
Omg this was wayyy too mushy for a mafia romance. I mean ‘love’ was said 281 times. I was skimming a lot and the mafia side of the plot ends on a cliffhanger which was annoying cause that was the only interesting happening and I didn’t get the final closure of it. I wish the characters were older as well but it was a big part of their romance as they were childhood sweethearts and have been in love since he was 10.
POV: Dual, 1st person.
SERIES or STANDALONE: 4th in series, standalone but really it ends on a cliffhanger.
TROPES: M/F young adult, childhood sweethearts, forbidden, mafia romance.
SIZE: 403 (last page) Kindle pages.
CHARACTERS: Valentin (21) & Yelena (20)
PLOT: 3 📚
ROMANCE: 5 ❤️
SPICE/STEAM: 3 🌶
DARKNESS/TRIGGERS: 2 😈 (torture, murder, violence, pregnancy issues)
⚠️ My bookshelves can contain spoilers.
Omg this was wayyy too mushy for a mafia romance. I mean ‘love’ was said 281 times. I was skimming a lot and the mafia side of the plot ends on a cliffhanger which was annoying cause that was the only interesting happening and I didn’t get the final closure of it. I wish the characters were older as well but it was a big part of their romance as they were childhood sweethearts and have been in love since he was 10.
POV: Dual, 1st person.
SERIES or STANDALONE: 4th in series, standalone but really it ends on a cliffhanger.
TROPES: M/F young adult, childhood sweethearts, forbidden, mafia romance.
SIZE: 403 (last page) Kindle pages.
CHARACTERS: Valentin (21) & Yelena (20)
PLOT: 3 📚
ROMANCE: 5 ❤️
SPICE/STEAM: 3 🌶
DARKNESS/TRIGGERS: 2 😈 (torture, murder, violence, pregnancy issues)
⚠️ My bookshelves can contain spoilers.
March 18, 2025
pensaba que se me iba a hacer más pesado pero al final me terminó gustando bastante y el final te deja con ganas del siguiente
February 1, 2025
Literally cannot wait for Sasha’s book like I’m on the edge of my seat…
March 18, 2025
Pensaba que me iba a resultar más pesado pero nada que ver , la manera de conectar el final con el siguiente libro y dejarlo todo abierto y con una intriga brutal?? 100/10
February 3, 2025
It could be more stars depending on what you like.
This is too sweet for me, barely any angst (other than slight hiding but when the parents find out nothing really happens, mostly initial shock).
They’re both V’s, absolutely into each other, no one else for them. It’s pretty much a given they’ll end up together. That’s it. Very light, good feelings kind of story.
This is too sweet for me, barely any angst (other than slight hiding but when the parents find out nothing really happens, mostly initial shock).
They’re both V’s, absolutely into each other, no one else for them. It’s pretty much a given they’ll end up together. That’s it. Very light, good feelings kind of story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 1, 2025
I was hoping there would be more sneaking around and more emphasis on the forbidden love part :(
December 15, 2025
The Book
This was such a fast-paced, fun read. I adore Sonja’s romances because you know exactly what you’re getting. The characters fall in love fast, but they always have great communication, sweet moments, and steamy scenes.
➳ Yelena Melnikov
fmc, 20 years old
She was sweet and caring toward Val. I liked how unapologetic she was about leaning on him when she needed support.
➳ Valentin Melnikov
mmc, 21 years old
Protective and possessive, Val only ever had eyes for Yelena. He had been taking care of her since childhood, and the flashbacks showed how that care evolved into the sweetest relationship.
I loved seeing unhinged Sasha and the teasers for Talia/Max and Mia/Dario. The twist and surprise crossover was unexpected but so exciting, I’ll be thinking about it until the next books come out.
Tropes
surprise pregnancy, protective hero, childhood friends to lovers, childhood sweethearts, instalove, mutual virgins, protective hero
ARC reader, I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This was such a fast-paced, fun read. I adore Sonja’s romances because you know exactly what you’re getting. The characters fall in love fast, but they always have great communication, sweet moments, and steamy scenes.
➳ Yelena Melnikov
fmc, 20 years old
She was sweet and caring toward Val. I liked how unapologetic she was about leaning on him when she needed support.
➳ Valentin Melnikov
mmc, 21 years old
Protective and possessive, Val only ever had eyes for Yelena. He had been taking care of her since childhood, and the flashbacks showed how that care evolved into the sweetest relationship.
I loved seeing unhinged Sasha and the teasers for Talia/Max and Mia/Dario. The twist and surprise crossover was unexpected but so exciting, I’ll be thinking about it until the next books come out.
Tropes
surprise pregnancy, protective hero, childhood friends to lovers, childhood sweethearts, instalove, mutual virgins, protective hero
ARC reader, I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 30, 2025
Rating: 5⭐️
Spice: 4🌶️
Would Recommend!
My Review:
How does this series keep getting better and better?! Val and Yelina - My heart is so much full of love after reading their stories. They might just be the cutest couple Sonja has ever written! 💖 Forget everything you thought you knew about them from the previous books—there’s so much more depth to their characters than we ever imagined.
And the Melnikov family dynamic - I loved it SO much! They feel like my own fictional family at this point. Sasha especially intrigued me in this one too, and now I’m dying to see how his story unfolds. 👀
The writing, the plot, the romance, and the spice—all were impeccable as always! Sonja knows how to deliver the perfect balance of passion, emotion, and intensity.🔥
Although Val and Yelina get their much-deserved HEA, the series itself ends on a MAJOR cliffhanger. 😭 I don’t want to spoil anything, but if you're a fan of Sonja's work, you are going to freaking LOVE it!
Now, the real question is… how am I supposed to survive the wait for Max’s book?! 😩
Tropes:
Childhood love
Pregnancy
Bratva
Spice: 4🌶️
Would Recommend!
My Review:
How does this series keep getting better and better?! Val and Yelina - My heart is so much full of love after reading their stories. They might just be the cutest couple Sonja has ever written! 💖 Forget everything you thought you knew about them from the previous books—there’s so much more depth to their characters than we ever imagined.
And the Melnikov family dynamic - I loved it SO much! They feel like my own fictional family at this point. Sasha especially intrigued me in this one too, and now I’m dying to see how his story unfolds. 👀
The writing, the plot, the romance, and the spice—all were impeccable as always! Sonja knows how to deliver the perfect balance of passion, emotion, and intensity.🔥
Although Val and Yelina get their much-deserved HEA, the series itself ends on a MAJOR cliffhanger. 😭 I don’t want to spoil anything, but if you're a fan of Sonja's work, you are going to freaking LOVE it!
Now, the real question is… how am I supposed to survive the wait for Max’s book?! 😩
Tropes:
Childhood love
Pregnancy
Bratva
February 14, 2025
3 stars
Tropes : childhood sweetheart, taboo vibe (‘cousins’), J/P H, touch her and 💀, unplanned pregnancy, mafia romance
Ending : HEA
Triggers : violence, torture, kidnapping, mention of human trafficking, 💀
Spice : 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Angst : 🔥🔥/5
OM/OW drama : none
Intimacy details: dual virgin, rough sex, no condom, oral
Standalone/Series : part of an interconnected series
Hero : Valentin Melnikov (21)
Heroine: Yelena Melnikov (20)
I got recommended this book by Deniz a couple weeks ago I think and I finished this a couple days ago. Since I almost finished all the books in my tbr list I thought this recommendation came at the right time.
But my history with Sonja’s books weren’t amazing, I was a bit waru about this one and after reading it I was proven right. Maybe because it started kinda in the middle of everything and not from the start of the intro of their romance just threw me off.
I skimmed quite a lot. It got a little taboo factor but since they’re not actually cousins just took out the angst a lot (it’s not like I want them to be blood related or anything bcs yuck).
Idk whether I want to give another Sonja’s book a try bcs so far it had been lackluster. For me anyway.
Tropes : childhood sweetheart, taboo vibe (‘cousins’), J/P H, touch her and 💀, unplanned pregnancy, mafia romance
Ending : HEA
Triggers : violence, torture, kidnapping, mention of human trafficking, 💀
Spice : 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Angst : 🔥🔥/5
OM/OW drama : none
Intimacy details: dual virgin, rough sex, no condom, oral
Standalone/Series : part of an interconnected series
Hero : Valentin Melnikov (21)
Heroine: Yelena Melnikov (20)
I got recommended this book by Deniz a couple weeks ago I think and I finished this a couple days ago. Since I almost finished all the books in my tbr list I thought this recommendation came at the right time.
But my history with Sonja’s books weren’t amazing, I was a bit waru about this one and after reading it I was proven right. Maybe because it started kinda in the middle of everything and not from the start of the intro of their romance just threw me off.
I skimmed quite a lot. It got a little taboo factor but since they’re not actually cousins just took out the angst a lot (it’s not like I want them to be blood related or anything bcs yuck).
Idk whether I want to give another Sonja’s book a try bcs so far it had been lackluster. For me anyway.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Read
March 19, 2025"Born into Temptation" is the story of Yelena and Val.
Umm im gonna leave this unrated because I could not finish this and it made me vastly uncomfortable. The fact they were were "non blood related cousins" and grew up together hanky pankying was just.. nah.
Unrated.
Umm im gonna leave this unrated because I could not finish this and it made me vastly uncomfortable. The fact they were were "non blood related cousins" and grew up together hanky pankying was just.. nah.
Unrated.
February 25, 2025
RTC....need to gather my thoughts.
Read
February 14, 2025dnf 😔
this book has one of my favorite tropes: the mcs are each other first and only everything, but sadly i couldn't enjoy this one, it's totally safe, but they're raised like cousins and even though they're not blood related they did feel like cousins so a couldn't enjoy them as a couple, it's a me thing.
this book has one of my favorite tropes: the mcs are each other first and only everything, but sadly i couldn't enjoy this one, it's totally safe, but they're raised like cousins and even though they're not blood related they did feel like cousins so a couldn't enjoy them as a couple, it's a me thing.
January 31, 2025
“You’ve always had my heart, Yelena Melnikov, and you always will. It belongs to you. No one else will ever have it”
I just finished the Born Into Temptation book and I can't stop crying! It was a mountain of emotions from beginning to end, I loved Val and Yel too much and can't wait to read Max. Val and Yelena's book was one of the ones I waited for the most since their appearance in the first book and it was totally worth the wait, they have such a beautiful relationship that I cried with tenderness several times, especially when reading the flashbacks and how they slowly became everything. It was such a surprise to see Vasya and Nina's daughter in this book, it was so nice to read a little bit of the Medvedev family again, I can't wait to see more of them, hopefully this will give way to a generation about them as well.
I love reading about the Melnikov family, I have come to feel like I am part of the family.
Vitaly as always was one of the best in the book, I love how he takes the tension out of everything and I suffered in his pov seeing him so broken up about not finding his son.
I can't wait to see more of Sasha and about who will be the girl that will dominate him, I also loved the little glimpse they showed us about Mia and Darius
I can't wait any longer to see the two bratvas reunited!!! As Vitaly said “How much testosterone can one city hold?"
Tropes:
-Dark Mafia Romance
-Childhood Sweethearts
-Only ever been with each other
-Surprise Pregnancy
-Obsessed MMC
-Touch her and fal
-She's his reason for breathing
-Vitaly POV chapter!
-No 3rd act breakup or miscommunication trope!
-No cheating or OW drama!
I just finished the Born Into Temptation book and I can't stop crying! It was a mountain of emotions from beginning to end, I loved Val and Yel too much and can't wait to read Max. Val and Yelena's book was one of the ones I waited for the most since their appearance in the first book and it was totally worth the wait, they have such a beautiful relationship that I cried with tenderness several times, especially when reading the flashbacks and how they slowly became everything. It was such a surprise to see Vasya and Nina's daughter in this book, it was so nice to read a little bit of the Medvedev family again, I can't wait to see more of them, hopefully this will give way to a generation about them as well.
I love reading about the Melnikov family, I have come to feel like I am part of the family.
Vitaly as always was one of the best in the book, I love how he takes the tension out of everything and I suffered in his pov seeing him so broken up about not finding his son.
I can't wait to see more of Sasha and about who will be the girl that will dominate him, I also loved the little glimpse they showed us about Mia and Darius
I can't wait any longer to see the two bratvas reunited!!! As Vitaly said “How much testosterone can one city hold?"
Tropes:
-Dark Mafia Romance
-Childhood Sweethearts
-Only ever been with each other
-Surprise Pregnancy
-Obsessed MMC
-Touch her and fal
-She's his reason for breathing
-Vitaly POV chapter!
-No 3rd act breakup or miscommunication trope!
-No cheating or OW drama!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 10, 2025
OH. MY. HEART. 😭❤️ Born Into Temptation by Sonja Grey completely wrecked me (in the best way possible). I laughed, I cried, I swooned so hard I might need medical attention 😅💞
Valentin and Yelena… THESE TWO. 🥹 From the very first Melnikov Legacy book, we all knew something special was brewing between them, but seeing their love story unfold here? Absolute perfection. 🖤 They’ve loved each other since childhood, raised as cousins (but not by blood), sharing stolen glances, quiet moments, and all those little secret smiles that made my chest ache. The flashbacks were everything!! Watching their love grow from innocent friendship to all-consuming devotion was pure magic ✨
And let me tell you, the Melnikov cousins squad deserves a medal 🏅😂 The way they’ve always supported Val and Yel, covering for them, teasing them, protecting their secret like it was a mission from the Bratva gods, I LIVED for those moments. The loyalty, the jokes, the chaos, this family gives ride or die energy every single time. Sasha, Evgeny, Niki, Damian, every one of them brought something fun and unique, and you just know their future stories are going to be wild. 🔥
Val… sigh 😮💨 The definition of a man down BAD. The way he loves Yelena is soft, possessive, protective, absolutely devoted. He worships her like she hung the moon. 🌙 And Yelena, our quiet, sweet girl from the previous books? She came alive with Val. She’s passionate, bold, and her strength shines in every chapter. Their connection is pure, raw, and beautifully written.
And of course, it wouldn’t be a Sonja Grey book without the perfect mix of spice 🌶️, heart 💔, and family chaos 🫶. There’s danger, suspense, humour (Vitaly, you will forever own my laughter 🤣🍦), and that signature Melnikov warmth that makes you feel like you’re part of the family.
No miscommunication. No breakup. No unnecessary drama. Just two people who’ve loved each other their whole lives are finally getting their forever. 🥰
And that CLIFFHANGER?! 😳🔥 Let’s just say… MAX. TALIA. OMG 😱 I need that book injected straight into my veins!!
Anyway 😭💋 this book was everything I hoped for and more. Sonja Grey keeps outdoing herself with the writing, the emotion, the family bonds all chef’s kiss. 👌
Alright, that’s all from me for now…
💀❤️ BYE I’m off to read Max’s book because that ending just destroyed me and I need answers IMMEDIATELY!!! 😭📖🔥
Valentin and Yelena… THESE TWO. 🥹 From the very first Melnikov Legacy book, we all knew something special was brewing between them, but seeing their love story unfold here? Absolute perfection. 🖤 They’ve loved each other since childhood, raised as cousins (but not by blood), sharing stolen glances, quiet moments, and all those little secret smiles that made my chest ache. The flashbacks were everything!! Watching their love grow from innocent friendship to all-consuming devotion was pure magic ✨
And let me tell you, the Melnikov cousins squad deserves a medal 🏅😂 The way they’ve always supported Val and Yel, covering for them, teasing them, protecting their secret like it was a mission from the Bratva gods, I LIVED for those moments. The loyalty, the jokes, the chaos, this family gives ride or die energy every single time. Sasha, Evgeny, Niki, Damian, every one of them brought something fun and unique, and you just know their future stories are going to be wild. 🔥
Val… sigh 😮💨 The definition of a man down BAD. The way he loves Yelena is soft, possessive, protective, absolutely devoted. He worships her like she hung the moon. 🌙 And Yelena, our quiet, sweet girl from the previous books? She came alive with Val. She’s passionate, bold, and her strength shines in every chapter. Their connection is pure, raw, and beautifully written.
And of course, it wouldn’t be a Sonja Grey book without the perfect mix of spice 🌶️, heart 💔, and family chaos 🫶. There’s danger, suspense, humour (Vitaly, you will forever own my laughter 🤣🍦), and that signature Melnikov warmth that makes you feel like you’re part of the family.
No miscommunication. No breakup. No unnecessary drama. Just two people who’ve loved each other their whole lives are finally getting their forever. 🥰
And that CLIFFHANGER?! 😳🔥 Let’s just say… MAX. TALIA. OMG 😱 I need that book injected straight into my veins!!
Anyway 😭💋 this book was everything I hoped for and more. Sonja Grey keeps outdoing herself with the writing, the emotion, the family bonds all chef’s kiss. 👌
Alright, that’s all from me for now…
💀❤️ BYE I’m off to read Max’s book because that ending just destroyed me and I need answers IMMEDIATELY!!! 😭📖🔥
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 31, 2025
What a way to close out January! Sonja Grey’s “Born into Temptation” is the type of story I didn’t know I needed, but I'm so glad I read it. Readers thoroughly immersed in the Melnikov Legacy Series will remember the “forbidden” relationship between the cousins Val and Yelena. Yes, you’ve read that right. Cousins—though not bl00d-related—they have been raised together since childhood.
Sonja has written “Born into Temptation” to meet the needs of readers who love the forbidden trope. Val and Yelena are each other’s firsts; there’s a surprise pregnancy, no third-act breakup, and no miscommunication trope.
Readers should recognize that just because there’s no third-act breakup doesn’t mean there wasn’t drama in the plot. It’s still a mafia story. There’s still involvement from the OG Melnikovs, which I loved seeing pop up.
I loved how the story showed the past and present, including pieces of Val and Yelena’s childhood. There is no shortage of steamy scenes. Val adores Yelena, and his worship of her is pretty clear. He truly is the ultimate “book boyfriend.” I enjoyed the bits of humor, which gave the story a fun, lighthearted vibe in the mafia world. It was a great read!
Sonja has written “Born into Temptation” to meet the needs of readers who love the forbidden trope. Val and Yelena are each other’s firsts; there’s a surprise pregnancy, no third-act breakup, and no miscommunication trope.
Readers should recognize that just because there’s no third-act breakup doesn’t mean there wasn’t drama in the plot. It’s still a mafia story. There’s still involvement from the OG Melnikovs, which I loved seeing pop up.
I loved how the story showed the past and present, including pieces of Val and Yelena’s childhood. There is no shortage of steamy scenes. Val adores Yelena, and his worship of her is pretty clear. He truly is the ultimate “book boyfriend.” I enjoyed the bits of humor, which gave the story a fun, lighthearted vibe in the mafia world. It was a great read!
January 27, 2025
I don’t even know where to begin that will do justice to the work of art that Sonja Grey brought to all of us with Val and Yelena’s story. I don’t want to say she did it again because every book she has written is fantastic , but this one was just so much more. I think all of us faithful Melnikov series readers have been impatiently waiting for their story, but the emotion in this book and how deeply I felt it took my breath away.
I don’t want to post any spoilers , but for those new to the series do yourself a favor and start at the beginning. Even though this book can be read as a standalone your enjoyment will grow tenfold if you have all the history of this crazy Russian Bratva family.
This particular book does end on a cliff hanger but I love it so much I don’t even mind having to wait for the next book.
Thank you Sonja for giving me more than I had expected in telling their story! The flashbacks were a perfect touch. I am debating on re- reading it again right now, to see what small details I might have missed in my relentless urning to know how it would play out and end .
I don’t want to post any spoilers , but for those new to the series do yourself a favor and start at the beginning. Even though this book can be read as a standalone your enjoyment will grow tenfold if you have all the history of this crazy Russian Bratva family.
This particular book does end on a cliff hanger but I love it so much I don’t even mind having to wait for the next book.
Thank you Sonja for giving me more than I had expected in telling their story! The flashbacks were a perfect touch. I am debating on re- reading it again right now, to see what small details I might have missed in my relentless urning to know how it would play out and end .
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