Shatter Me

by Bianca Cole

I've always prided myself on seeing through people's bullshit. But Dmitri Ivanov? He's a puzzle I can't solve.

Sure, Boston's elite sees the perfect businessman—all devastating smiles and Armani suits. I see the monster beneath, the darkness he tries so hard to hide. The way he watches me like he wants to devour me whole.

I hate how he gets under my skin. Hate how my body betrays me every time he corners me, how his touch sets me on fire even as his arrogance makes me want to scream. He thinks he can control me like he controls everything else in his perfectly ordered world.

He's wrong.

But when I discover the truth about the Ivanov family, suddenly I'm caught in a dangerous game I never signed up for. Now Dmitri's trying to protect me by keeping me in the dark, not realizing his secrets might get me killed.

After I'm kidnapped, everything changes. The lies, the betrayal, the realization that I was just another chess piece in his game—it's too much. So I do the one thing Dmitri Ivanov never expected.

I walk away.

Now the great puppet master has lost his strings, and for the first time in his life, he's the one begging. But I won't make it easy for him. If he wants me back, he'll have to do the one thing he's never done

Let someone see the real him.

Even if it shatters us both.

Shatter Me is a dark Russian mafia romance and the second book in the Beautiful Monsters Series. This dark mafia romance explores themes that may be disturbing to some readers. However, there is no cliffhanger, and the happily-ever-after ending meaning this book can be read as a standalone.

Genres: Mafia Romance, Dark Romance, Enemies To Lovers, Romance

Kindle Edition

Published March 28, 2025

About the author

Author of dark romance and lover of anti-heros.

Reviews

[Sabrina · Rating 3 out of 5]

Get it here:
Amazon US * Amazon UK

[Brandi-Lynn Weiser · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! Shatter Me was so good, once I started I couldn’t put this book down. Like book 1, this book started out a little slow, but holy heck did it pick up quickly. The chemistry between Tash and Dmitri was instant and like fire right from the start. But once Tash stopped resisting Dmitri was when things really heated up! These two together were absolutely perfect and the sexy scenes were explosive! My toes were constantly curling lol. I loved how Tash matched Dmitri in the bedroom and had the same desires. Both their dirty talks were sexy as hell! Both characters were really likable and very enjoyable. I loved how protective, and maybe a little unhinged Dmitri was. And I loved Tash’s fiery, sassy, and independent personality. When she got kidnapped her strength really proved just perfect she was for Dmitri.
And oh my gosh! I absolutely loved Alexi and his sense of humor. He was so entertaining and had me laughing- ALOT. He’s definitely the easy going, funny and kind brother- but I can only imagine what he’s going to be like in his book. When this man falls for his lady I know he’s going to match his brothers in bedroom! Heck he might even be more sexier and kinkier! I so can’t wait to see. But next up is the brother I’ve been wanting- Erik! I’m so excited for his and Katarina story.

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shatter Me is a dark Russian mafia romance and the second book in the Beautiful Monsters Series. This dark mafia romance explores themes that may be disturbing to some readers. However, there is no cliffhanger, and the happily-ever-after ending meaning this book can be read as a standalone. The story is interconnected with characters from the previous book making appearance and contributing to the story. Immerse yourself in this mesmerizing story and follow along as these two characters fall in love. An unputdownable and absorbing addictive read. A definite page turner with enticing erotic scenes that will have you sweating like a sinner on Sunday. Hang on to your kindle and brace yourself for this tantalizing rollercoaster ride of emotions and tension between these captivating characters as they navigate through their lives. A fast paced, thrilling and gripping story. This is Natasha and Dmitri story which is told from a dual point of view. A story that demands to be read and screamed escape from the everyday life and gave that something extra that you never knew that you needed.
An action & adventure romance, organize crime story, romantic suspense story, dark mafia romance, contemporary romance, billionaire romance, hate-to-love vibes story, enemies-to-lovers romance, touch-her-and-die romance, protective alpha hero story, Bratva romance, polar opposite attracts story, he-falls-first romance, lust-at-first-sight story, insta-love romance, taboo romance, insta-everything romance, forced proximity story with enemies, rivalry, anger, angst, pawn, lies, passion, suspense, acceptance, forgiveness, dirty talking, guilt, consensual intense rough sex, dominance, submission, family, steam, fear, trauma, bloodshed, attacks, twists and turns, hidden secrets, drama, threats, danger, violence, BDSM, kidnapping, betrayal, banter, captivity, deception, darkness, madness, obsession, possessiveness, action packed, love and so much more.
Natasha is a curator for an art museum and the best friend of Sofia she met Dmitri at the wedding of Nikolai Dmitri's brother. Dmitri can't seems to stay away from her and where ever she goes. He installed cameras in her home and workplace to keep an eye to ensure her safety. Natasha does not know that he's a member of a dangerous Russian Bratva family. She tries to fight the pull and connection towards him but can't seems to get away to rid of him until the two succumb to their attraction. Their chemistry is electrifying and magnetic. Dmitri is dominant, dangerous and controlling. Natasha is intelligent, beautiful and fierce. When she learnt of his ties to the mob she wasn't happy and gave him a piece of her mind. She walked away from him but put herself in danger which caused Dmitri to destroy the city against anyone who jeopardize what he deemed was his. She has seen an unguarded side of him that's seen by many. Natasha got tired of lies and Dmitri being a part of the mob and decided to walk away from him. But Dmitri will not take it sitting down thus started his journey of gravelling to get her back and their happily-ever-after.

I received an advanced copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Diana~ (Kiss Me Books) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dimitri Ivanov meets his match in the highly independent and firecracker that is Natasha Blackwood. Shatter Me by Bianca Cole is the second book in her brand new mafia romance series, which follows Stalk Me —Nikolai and Sofia's story. I was completely enthralled by the explosive chemistry and tension between Dimitri and Natasha. I loved the push and pull element of their relationship because they were constantly chasing and yearning for each other. Whenever Natasha tried to run away from Dimitri, it was impossible for her to escape him because he was always one step behind her. The man had her in his sights and was unwilling to let her go. The intensity of Dimitri's obsession for Natasha was certainly a heady thing to witness. I appreciated the fact that the author took the time to build their relationship while also increasing the tension between the two main characters. It made their love scenes even more special and sexy when it finally happened. However, war is looming for Dimitri and his brothers because of their escalating attacks on a rival family. This will ultimately place Natasha in the crossfires and change the dynamics of their relationship forever.

“I'm never letting her go. She belongs to me now—mind, body, and soul. And I'll destroy anyone who tries to take her from me.”

In the end, Dimitri and Natasha's love story was beautifully written and broke my heart several times because of the yearning from both characters and secrets he kept from her. The highlight of this book was absolutely the romance between Dimitri and Natasha. As someone who was often portrayed as controlling, dominant, and intense, Natasha was the only one who could easily shatter Dimitri's control. I loved that it was also difficult for Natasha to maintain her composure around Dimitri but she held her own against him many times. It was obvious to everyone around them that they were extremely attracted to each other. It was funny to see Dimitri's family tease him for always being so distracted because his mind was constantly on Natasha. If you are looking for an incredibly sexy and romantic love story between two strong and independent characters who can't help but fall for each other despite their circumstances, I highly recommend this book!

*This ARC was generously provided by the author for an honest review*

[Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dmitri Ivanov is a great read, wonderful characters and a plot that will hold you riveted
Boston may be full of elite and they may all be well dressed in business suits and carry guns, Dmitri Ivanov sets her blood alive and when she is in his arms, she forgets her troubles for a short time but reality is always close around the corner.
As she discovered more about the family and all of the things they are involved in she realises that the things regarding the Ivanov’s are now also caught in this game he is trying to keep her safe and this is causing a great deal of tension and these secrets are deeper than she first believed and now it seems the clock is ticking on her safety.
Now Dmitri's realises that she has been kidnapped and everything changes for him, he has to deal with trying to find her. The lies and the betrayal and the realisation that anything could happen to her and the continual lying and secrets she knows she has to make a monumental decision.
She decides that enough is enough and that she is going to take things into her own hands and she walks away, he is going to have to do something about this and if her wants her help he is going to have to change his ways.
I thoroughly enjoyed the book and look forward to reading any future publications; keep up all the wonderful writing.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Mafia Wife · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book 2 of the beautiful monsters series. In the first book we saw oldest brother Nickolai’s story, this is Dimitri’s story. He is always in control. He has honed it to a fine skill. But she challenges him, and causes that carefully crafted control to slip. She is a museum curator and he is her best friend‘s brother-in-law. Suddenly, he seems to be showing up everywhere, including the museum. He is dark and dangerous and pushes all of her buttons. She knows she should stay away from him. There is something in him that calls to her though. They have strong chemistry, a passionate force that pulls them together, it is like they cannot deny the steam. They push-each other’s buttons, constantly pushing and pulling in a game, they can’t seem to break. There is an arc of mafia drama that continues through the story. There is darkness and there is danger and it gets a little bit dirty. As well written and the characters are done well so you can really dig into them. He is completely over the top, but in the best way. She is smart and sassy and going to give him just as good as she gets. Even though each story is a standalone I recommend reading them in order as some of the mafia family, drama, and relationship relationships are established in earlier stories. Of course they get their HEA, once they deal with all of the drama.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Ellen Mills · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this from the start the instant chemistry between Tash & Dimitri at the wedding had me hooked.
Tash was afraid of getting hurt so never got involved in serious relationships but there was something about Dimitri that she was drawn to. Dimitri was a serious Bratva man who people cowarded to him but Tash was different she wasn't afraid of him & made sure he knew it which was something he wasnt used to. Together the sparks turned to flames when they were together when we got to see quite a lot of steam times but there was also something g between them that was more than just physical attraction they each saw something definitely the other. Just as everything was going great between them his enemies were getting closer & Tash become involved in the danger making him realise exactly how he felt about her. Dimitri's secrets & lies could cost him the one person who truly sees him for who he is but she's not letting him & his world hurt her again.
I loved the characters in the family & all the sass & banter between all of them.

Once you start reading this you won't want to put it down.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Carole · Rating 4 out of 5]

Shattered Me is a contemporary mafia romance and book two in the Beautiful Monsters series.
MMC Dimitri Ivanov has become obsessively fascinated with his new sister-in-laws best friend MFC Natasha Blackwood, a museum curator whose board he is also a member of.
Natasha sees nothing but trouble in the handsome Russian businessman, and tries to avoid him at all costs, even as the attraction and devastating smiles are getting harder to ignore.
Their fiery verbal sparring with each other and sizzling undercurrent of smoldering passion sets the pages alight and Natasha definitely makes Dimitri work hard for what he wants.
When things between them start to head to a good place, it all goes straight to purgatory.
Enjoyed the story which was nicely written with drama, intrigue, mafia family dynamics, violence, suspense, secret revelations, spice, emotion, and all you’d expect from an engaging Bratva read. HEA.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Mariana McMurtrie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tash and Dmitri have my fucking heart!

Their chemistry is off the charts, banter is chief kiss, and their tension needs a fucking stake knife to cut through. Tash is a feisty, intelligent, headstrong woman who knows what she's worth and dominates her work field with an iron grip. Dmitri Ivanov shows his controlling, calculated ways while trampling over anyone who dares to challenge him, never giving another time to think their next move. Thinking it was another fancy gala, Dmitri never thought to be slapped in public. With the sway of her hips and confidant aura, his mind can't help but trail back to Natasha. And once a Ivanov man sets his eye one something, they will do whatever is needed to have it, even a person.

I will say in the beginning I didn't really vibe with it but as we kept going I found myself so engrossed in the romance between our FMC and MMC!

The begging/groveling that happened throughout the book set me over the edge <3

I feel like Sophia and Nikolai still top overall for me but I do love the intensity between Tash and Dmitri.

[Book Nook Kitten · Rating 1 out of 5]

Painfully boring, have stopped reading it from absolute boredom 3 times before even getting to 15% of the way through this book. I've kept trying tonight to read further but this is just too boring.

The only thing the author can come up with to show the heroine is supposedly passionate about her job is to have her keep repeating the same two basic phrases, "art is so important it should be shown in a museum", and "art should not be affected by political issues".

This is supposed to be a dark romance, which is my favourite genre, but there was nothing dark between them. From the first sentence and every page after they both want each other. He's supposed to be a big, bad bratva guy, but he falls at her feet instantly. The characters read as being very weak and juvenile.

Usually, I can at least get through 50% of a book, even really badly written ones, to give them a good chance to see if they get any better but this was so rubbish, embarrassingly basic and so boring I just couldn't do it anymore. Gave up at 17%. If I could give less than 1 star I would.

[aleah · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5STARS
When I first started reading this I had such high hopes of it being something I class as a winner .
When I get a strong powerful man , broody , dark and completely possessive and jealous , it’s pretty much settled .
When I get a strong stunning heroine who not only is confident but gives the hero a taste of his own medicine without coming across spoilt or immature, she walks like a queen and can match him in the bedroom… it’s a sure thing!!

BUT my bubble of love burst when the dirty talk hit. Ugh it was off. If your going to get hot with talk make it good , was so tacky and repetitive. Which brings me to .. REPETITION .
This books sayings & wording were soooo repetitive it was like the author ran out of content of new phrases. I felt like I was listening to the same conversation every chapter they saw each other.

Unfortunate because it had great bones and the characters were what I always love. I’m not giving up on this author though I’m
Sure it’s always an improvement as the books go on

[Shelly Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is Dmitri and Tash's book. We got a glimpse in the prior book and this story is full of push/pull, love/hate, walls/windows. Dmitri is control. Since his mother died, that's how he's survived. He doesn't know how to open up, let someone in, & have them stay for him. His sister-in-law doesn't count because she's part of Nikolai & yet she's family. Tash internalizes and controls but open with those she cares about. They both find a way through each other's walls. Unfortunately, when it comes to a head, Dmitri falters because he hasn't been truthful.

The story is beautifully written. While Dmitri determines Tash is his, he has to fight and open himself up before it really happens. The characters are multi-faceted. You hate, love, root, want to strangle and scream. The journey they go on is one of a enjoyable slow burn to inferno and life. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Books and Daisies · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Captivating Mafia Romance
This mafia light dark romance delivers all the essential elements—enemies to lovers, captivity, and forced proximity—but what truly makes it shine is the sizzling banter and layered character dynamics between Dmitri and Natasha.

Their interactions are rich with tension and depth, from boardroom confrontations and family gatherings to moments where Dmitri balances his ruthless role in the family business with his raw, unguarded side around Natasha. The emotional push-and-pull, the walls built from trauma, and the slow unraveling of their defenses add weight to their story.

Beautifully written and emotionally charged, Shatter Me blends passion, power, and vulnerability into a compelling read. If you love intense chemistry, complex characters, and a mafia romance with heart, this one is definitely worth picking up.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Judy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the 2nd story in the Beautiful Monsters Series where Dmitri and Tash find themselves together and the fire between them is uncontrollable. Dmitri believes by shielding Tash from the dark and dangerous world he exists in it will keep her under control. Dmitri shows how possessive he is of Tash with keeping her safe. He should know the truth will always come out but how it affects them is one situation Dmitri has no control over. These two are explosive and incredible when they come together and getting there is one experience neither expected. Tash is a woman who will not let Dmitri walk all over her and he’s forced to bend to make this marriage become one they both want to be in for all the right reasons. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Coral · Rating 5 out of 5]

Second installment of Beautiful monsters, although it can be read independently it is advisable to read the first one because the characters appear and you can better understand the plot. I really liked the female character because she is not the typical silly damsel, she has a strong character, passionate and what to say about Dmitri, controlling, hard but deep down he falls apart for her, there is an intense chemistry between them. The development and the plot keep you in suspense until you read the end, suspense, lies and revelations that will change everything. You won't be disappointed.... looking forward to the next sibling.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Shifty Bugger · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

This was a deliciously dark story, Dmitri Ivanov, never expected to be infatuated with Natasha, he watches everything she does, and camera's everywhere she goes to make sure she is safe. Dmitri, has so many secrets his whole family have secrets they are dangerous Russian mafia brothers and he is the monster waiting in the dark. Natasha is a curator for an art museum, and he is on the board. She kept pushing him away until she couldn’t push no-more. The chemistry between them was deliciously electric, that they cannot get enough of each other. War is inevitable and been seen with any of the Ivanov family, their enemies are getting close.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[BackwardsBookshelf · Rating 4 out of 5]

Shatter Me by Bianca Cole is the second novel in the Beautiful Monsters Series. It is possible to read this instalment as a standalone, however I highly recommend reading the first book, Stalk Me, for a deeper understanding of Dimitri and his family. Dmitri and Natasha's world completely captivated me. There is an immediate sense of tension and chemistry between them from the moment they meet up until the very end. There's no doubt this series is worth reading, and I'm eagerly anticipating what's next!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Michele · Rating 5 out of 5]

Remember that old saying, “Opposites attract!”
I met Dmitri and Natasha aka Tash in Nikolai and Sofia's story and I was hoping these two would get their own story! Dimitri is definitely a take control kind of guy who wants to break through Tash’s stronghold around her heart. Yet when the two are near each other, the sparks fly leaving for some downright steamy scenes. When Dimitri’s life is a far cry from what Tash is willing to accept, will the two be able to muddle through? Will escalating threats to Dimitri’s family jeopardize everything? You have to read to find out and don’t expect to put the book down until you turn the last page!

[Jurae · Rating 5 out of 5]

Natasha has been friends with Sofia for a long time and now that she has married Nikolai she is int he constant presence of his brother Dmitri who she feels is extremely controlling. Dmitri has never met any one like Natasha. She sees the real him and causes him to lose control. Their actions is immediate but will his family's legacy ruin what they could possibly have?

I love this series and look forward to reading more.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Danee · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second part of the Beautiful Monsters. We get the story of Dimitri and Tash and their story keeps you glued to your book from the first page. They come from two different worlds but when she is in danger he does everything he can to protect her and when she thinks she can run away after that she thought wrong because he doesn't let her go anymore. A beautiful story with a dark and dark edge and lots of action, danger, tension and many hot and steamy moments between them.







I received an Advance Reader copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Judy · Rating 4 out of 5]

A story where he fell first for sure. While trying to be legitimate, the Bratva leader was brought to his knees by a woman who can definitely stand on her own. Through sometimes her stubbornness, sense of self, and pride where a bit too much. I loved the action and to watch them fall. I love how he worked to win her back.
These two were HOT, but if he asked if she like me it one more time I was going to scream. Clearly she did. lol.
I’m anxious to read Eric and Katarina’s story next.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[L KQ · Rating 5 out of 5]

A dangerous Relation

Natasha is a strong, sassy woman who can hold her own against the Dmitri’s intensity. It was a fantastic read with tension so palpable that it heated up the pages. The darkness and rivalry affected not only the relationship brewing between them but his obsession pulls them together. The danger and suspense captured my attention just as much as the chemistry between Natasha’s and Dmitri. I could not enough of this exciting story.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kandiemarie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Second installment in the Beautiful Monsters series. Dmitri and Tash's story is captivatingly intriguing and once I started I couldn’t put it down. Filled with lots of action, danger, suspense and twists. The hot and steamy moments when the sparks fly between them is a definite plus in the story. I couldn't wait to see where it would end and I look forward to reading the next book in the series. Highly recommend reading.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Pauline Johnson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pretty good read. Typical Bratva romance. Woman plays hard to get. Man wants her more because of it. Man learns how to love woman finds out secrets he's hiding. She gets nabbed he realizes he can't live without her. War breaks out because of it. He gets girl out of trouble, gets shot in process only to still lose girl due to lies. Woman realizes she's in love with mobster and can't live with out him, but makes him work for forgiveness. He tells her the truth about everything they live happily ever after, the end. Spice level 🌶️🌶️🌶️

[Dorrita Winch · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a Dark Mafia Romance: Book 2 of 3 in the series Beautiful Monsters. Although in a series this is a standalone with a happy ending.
Has lies, secrets, kidnappings, betrayals, hurts, deaths and a realization for both Dmitri and Tash that changes their life forever.
A good read that grabs you from the beginning and keeps your attention all the way through.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Cindy Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a new to me author and it won't be the last. I found the story to be very engaging and an absolute page-turner. The characters were very fresh and entertaining. I loved the banter and the chemistry between them. Natasha was such a fun character. She was strong and fiery.

The story will keep you on the edge of your seat. Very enjoyable.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sheila · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Stars for Shatter Me by Bianca Cole. This is Book 2 of Beautiful Monsters and can be read as a standalone!

I was hooked from the first Chapter such chemistry between Tash & Dimitri. I love that this author wrote a very strong FMC and Dimitri has met his match ! Instant dislike but with sizzling attraction!

So good ! Loved this couple!.

I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[lf · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hold on tight for this one....

Shatter Me is the second book in the Beautiful Monsters series. So hold on tight for this story to unfold between Natasha and Dimitri. They are sizzling hot together but there are more than a few things to deal with along the way....not the least killers, danger, secrets, Bratva, family and more. But that all makes this story a thrilling read that sucks you in and keeps you cuddled down tight until the end.

[Jenni · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tash and Dmitris stroy will have you hooked with suspense, knowing to much can be the end of you in Dmitris world, but he'll do anything to protect Tash, but will he let her walk away? Well written engaging steamy dark themes and more.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[GKP2460 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shatter Me is book 2 in the Beautiful Monsters series and is Dimitri and Tash's fantastic story. Their story is consuming and the chemistry between them is on 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥! This story and it's characters pull you in from the start and holds on tight until the end. Lies, secrets, betrayals and of course lots of heat fill the pages making Shatter Me a must read.