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Beautiful Agony
What’s the cost of trusting your life to a lethal bratva king?
Vadim Stravinsky isn’t just dangerous.
He’s the king of a criminal empire, with enemies deadlier than his icy stare.
When he dragged me into his world, I didn’t expect survival to come with a diamond ring and vows whispered in the shadows.
But secrets now bind us tighter than any vow.
Both the ones from his haunted past and the ones in my unexpected future.
And that was before our enemies start circling like vultures.
Eager to tear apart the delicate alliance we’ve forged—and extinguish the fragile life we’ve made together.
Now every touch burns with forbidden heat.
Every promise feels like a trap.
And the man who once promised to protect me might be the greatest threat of all.
Because in Vadim Stravinsky’s cage of violence and
Survival demands loyalty.
Love requires agony.
And trust comes at a price higher than anything I dare imagine.
Beautiful Agony is Book 2 of the Stravinsky Bratva duet. This is NOT a standalone. You MUST read Book 1 - Beautiful Cruelty to understand what happens in this book.
This book contains scenes and topics that may be disturbing to some readers.
Vadim Stravinsky isn’t just dangerous.
He’s the king of a criminal empire, with enemies deadlier than his icy stare.
When he dragged me into his world, I didn’t expect survival to come with a diamond ring and vows whispered in the shadows.
But secrets now bind us tighter than any vow.
Both the ones from his haunted past and the ones in my unexpected future.
And that was before our enemies start circling like vultures.
Eager to tear apart the delicate alliance we’ve forged—and extinguish the fragile life we’ve made together.
Now every touch burns with forbidden heat.
Every promise feels like a trap.
And the man who once promised to protect me might be the greatest threat of all.
Because in Vadim Stravinsky’s cage of violence and
Survival demands loyalty.
Love requires agony.
And trust comes at a price higher than anything I dare imagine.
Beautiful Agony is Book 2 of the Stravinsky Bratva duet. This is NOT a standalone. You MUST read Book 1 - Beautiful Cruelty to understand what happens in this book.
This book contains scenes and topics that may be disturbing to some readers.
- GenresRomanceDark Romance
447 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 31, 2025
810 people are currently reading
170 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
February 4, 2025
Beautiful Agony, the second and final book in the Stravinsky duet picks up right where the first book left off, diving straight into an emotional reunion between Lacey and Vadim. However, despite the joy of their reunion, the distance between them begins to grow as they grapple with their individual struggles and how to be with together without hurting the other physically and emotionally.
“When darkness threatens to consume me, you shine brighter than any star, zvyozdochka.”
Lacey undergoes significant character growth in this installment, THANK GOD. She steps up with fierce determination to avenge Irina’s tragic loss, protect her family from Sayanaa, and support Vadim not just as the Pakhan's wife but as a true partner he can rely on. Her evolution is both compelling and satisfying, showing a depth and resilience that adds layers to her character that didn’t exist before.
Vadim, on the other hand, continues to shine. His role as a husband, son, and now father adds an irresistible complexity to his character. His emotional intelligence, combined with his fears of failing to be better than his father and his desperate need to regain his family's love, makes him endearing and relatable. The mother-son reunion was particularly heart-wrenching, and I found myself bawling at 1 a.m. when she tenderly called him "Vadyuska." OH MY BABIESSSS 😭 Vadim's willingness to do anything for his family underscores the overarching theme of the book which centres around the profound importance of family.
And of course what’s a bratva/mafia romance without SPICE? The spicy scenes in this book are elite in every way. From tender, slow moments to passionate, intense exchanges, the variety kept me engaged and adds depth to Lacey and Vadim's relationship which just made me love them even more.
“Mine,” she whispers against my lips. “Forever.”
At its core, this book is about healing and self-discovery. I went into it knowing that this duet would be amazing, and it certainly did not disappoint. It also felt like it was more Vadim’s duet instead of centering around Lacey which I loved because it definitely stepped away from the norms of this genre and gave Vadim the spotlight he so rightfully deserved. It's a testament to Brook Wilder's prowess as a dark mafia romance author that with each release, her characters grow richer and more complex, and this duet stands out as a shining example of her talent. I can’t wait to see what my auto-buy author comes up with next!
“When darkness threatens to consume me, you shine brighter than any star, zvyozdochka.”
Lacey undergoes significant character growth in this installment, THANK GOD. She steps up with fierce determination to avenge Irina’s tragic loss, protect her family from Sayanaa, and support Vadim not just as the Pakhan's wife but as a true partner he can rely on. Her evolution is both compelling and satisfying, showing a depth and resilience that adds layers to her character that didn’t exist before.
Vadim, on the other hand, continues to shine. His role as a husband, son, and now father adds an irresistible complexity to his character. His emotional intelligence, combined with his fears of failing to be better than his father and his desperate need to regain his family's love, makes him endearing and relatable. The mother-son reunion was particularly heart-wrenching, and I found myself bawling at 1 a.m. when she tenderly called him "Vadyuska." OH MY BABIESSSS 😭 Vadim's willingness to do anything for his family underscores the overarching theme of the book which centres around the profound importance of family.
And of course what’s a bratva/mafia romance without SPICE? The spicy scenes in this book are elite in every way. From tender, slow moments to passionate, intense exchanges, the variety kept me engaged and adds depth to Lacey and Vadim's relationship which just made me love them even more.
“Mine,” she whispers against my lips. “Forever.”
At its core, this book is about healing and self-discovery. I went into it knowing that this duet would be amazing, and it certainly did not disappoint. It also felt like it was more Vadim’s duet instead of centering around Lacey which I loved because it definitely stepped away from the norms of this genre and gave Vadim the spotlight he so rightfully deserved. It's a testament to Brook Wilder's prowess as a dark mafia romance author that with each release, her characters grow richer and more complex, and this duet stands out as a shining example of her talent. I can’t wait to see what my auto-buy author comes up with next!
February 1, 2025
This book starts off exactly where the last left off. Lacey being set up in a trap set by Olga & Vadim being none the wiser whilst his mother asks for her help finding his sister (whom he didn’t know existed). It isn’t until later when Vadim realizes Lacey is missing & immediately starts looking into where she went.
He does everything in his power to find her & his sister. Apologies are immediate once he does find her & they have to come to terms with how they feel about their relationship. It’s not just one of convenience but of actual feelings. When Lacey finds out something surprising, it actually brings the two of them closer again.
But now they have to figure out how to get rid of the threats against them. Which only makes things more tense since there is more on the line now.
They end up trying to find a way to end all of the chaos & craziness but it never seems to work out. That’s until the fashion week show in LA. It didn’t exactly go as planned but worked out in the end.
These two finally get their chance at a happy ending when all of the enemies are taken care of & they were able to welcome their daughter into the world.
It was so nice to see that ending, part of me would’ve loved to have seen more interactions with their daughter but it was a good ending nonetheless.
Great job!
He does everything in his power to find her & his sister. Apologies are immediate once he does find her & they have to come to terms with how they feel about their relationship. It’s not just one of convenience but of actual feelings. When Lacey finds out something surprising, it actually brings the two of them closer again.
But now they have to figure out how to get rid of the threats against them. Which only makes things more tense since there is more on the line now.
They end up trying to find a way to end all of the chaos & craziness but it never seems to work out. That’s until the fashion week show in LA. It didn’t exactly go as planned but worked out in the end.
These two finally get their chance at a happy ending when all of the enemies are taken care of & they were able to welcome their daughter into the world.
It was so nice to see that ending, part of me would’ve loved to have seen more interactions with their daughter but it was a good ending nonetheless.
Great job!
February 2, 2025
I really enjoyed the second half of Vadim and Lacey's story. It was exciting and entertaining. With a few surprise twists that added to the angst factor. I also felt the connection between Vadim and Lacey was so much deeper this time around.
I liked that Vadim wasn't afraid or ashamed of being emotional, even crying at times, while still being the fierce leader he needed to be. He really stepped up and was incredibly supportive of not just Lacey but Megan too. I liked they they all worked together instead of hiding things from each other. They fact that they were willing to communicate and compromise was nice to see.
I like that Lacey found that fire burning inside and didn't let it go. She was strong and resilient while also being very compassionate towards everyone. I liked that she was so willing to help the girls and anyone who needed it.
While the first book was a lot to do with the operations they were trying to take down this one was more gripping and focused on strengthening Vadim and Lacey's relationship. It was a fast paced story and quite dark like the first book but I really liked the underlying story arc about redemption in multiple ways. If you enjoy dark mafia/Bratva romances then this is definitely one to check out!
I liked that Vadim wasn't afraid or ashamed of being emotional, even crying at times, while still being the fierce leader he needed to be. He really stepped up and was incredibly supportive of not just Lacey but Megan too. I liked they they all worked together instead of hiding things from each other. They fact that they were willing to communicate and compromise was nice to see.
I like that Lacey found that fire burning inside and didn't let it go. She was strong and resilient while also being very compassionate towards everyone. I liked that she was so willing to help the girls and anyone who needed it.
While the first book was a lot to do with the operations they were trying to take down this one was more gripping and focused on strengthening Vadim and Lacey's relationship. It was a fast paced story and quite dark like the first book but I really liked the underlying story arc about redemption in multiple ways. If you enjoy dark mafia/Bratva romances then this is definitely one to check out!
February 1, 2025
You don’t want to miss this!
So honored to receive ARC of Beautiful Cruelty and Beautiful Agony! Who would want to catch their fiancé with his assistant? Unfortunately, that happened to Lacey. She’s quite feisty and even though Vadim is super sexy she puts him right in his place! I love the sibling dynamic with Lacey, Megan, and Freddy. It was very realistic and reminded me of my own family. Human Trafficking has never been a trope I wanted to read about because it terrifies me. However, it was handled with sensitivity and without too much graphic description. Vadim and Lacey make it their life’s work to save as many victims as possible. The love story between Lacey and Vadim was one of my favorites I have ever read. I love that they worked through their rough patch, didn’t take a break, or break up! Loved that Lacey wasn’t a damsel in distress or disgusted by the Bratva. Her sister Megan is a riot and I cannot wait to read more about her and Demyon! I couldn’t not put these books down! Thank you again for entrusting this to me!
So honored to receive ARC of Beautiful Cruelty and Beautiful Agony! Who would want to catch their fiancé with his assistant? Unfortunately, that happened to Lacey. She’s quite feisty and even though Vadim is super sexy she puts him right in his place! I love the sibling dynamic with Lacey, Megan, and Freddy. It was very realistic and reminded me of my own family. Human Trafficking has never been a trope I wanted to read about because it terrifies me. However, it was handled with sensitivity and without too much graphic description. Vadim and Lacey make it their life’s work to save as many victims as possible. The love story between Lacey and Vadim was one of my favorites I have ever read. I love that they worked through their rough patch, didn’t take a break, or break up! Loved that Lacey wasn’t a damsel in distress or disgusted by the Bratva. Her sister Megan is a riot and I cannot wait to read more about her and Demyon! I couldn’t not put these books down! Thank you again for entrusting this to me!
February 1, 2025
The continuation of Beautiful Cruelty. Agony is definitely prominent throughout the story. Agony in the fight against human trafficking, agony in the fight to find love and trust and agony in the realization that you can do everything right and still the horrors of the world can still find you.
This story is heartbreaking in the horror it weaves knowing that while this is fiction it is very much a reality for many. I truly hope there is a real Vadim out there with his Lacey standing next to him to fight against human trafficking. This played a very large part in this story. It is definitely not Brook’s normal romance. The human trafficking part played a third main character. It is dark and horrible but the love between Vadim and Lacey shines through as well.
Loved the HEA for Vadim and Lacey with their beautiful baby girl they fought hard to get their HEA. And shes left the door open for a potential spinoff with Demyon and Megan.
This story is heartbreaking in the horror it weaves knowing that while this is fiction it is very much a reality for many. I truly hope there is a real Vadim out there with his Lacey standing next to him to fight against human trafficking. This played a very large part in this story. It is definitely not Brook’s normal romance. The human trafficking part played a third main character. It is dark and horrible but the love between Vadim and Lacey shines through as well.
Loved the HEA for Vadim and Lacey with their beautiful baby girl they fought hard to get their HEA. And shes left the door open for a potential spinoff with Demyon and Megan.
February 1, 2025
This was an excellent conclusion to Vadim and Lacey’s story. Everything was perfect. I was so glad her being taken wasn’t drawn out and they weren’t forced to be apart. And I was impressed and proud of the perfect Bratva wife Lacey had become. How she not only stood up for Vadim in book 1 to Olga, but then also to Polina in this book was the best thing. As much as Vadim was the best thing to happen to Lacey, I honestly think she was the best thing to happen to him. She was everything he needed and more, and when he didn’t even realize it. And I was so excited for them when she found out she was pregnant, and even more happy that she told him immediately and didn’t try to hide it. The chemistry these two had was sizzling! The sexy times were off the charts! She matched his dirty talk perfectly!
I am so curious about Demyon and Megan. Did she leave for New York and did he follow her??? I really want to know!!
I am so curious about Demyon and Megan. Did she leave for New York and did he follow her??? I really want to know!!
February 2, 2025
PERFECTION!!
The EPIC conclusion to the Stravinsky Bratva duet was everything I hoped for and MORE!!
I must say I really really like Lacey’s character. Her growth from the first book is so very interesting. It’s the way she stands up for Vadim and his character, and when she controls those sexy times and calls him Good Boy or Daddy.
So much danger surrounds them but throughout all the chaos their love for each other grows stronger and it’s HEART-GRIPPING.
From beginning to end this book consumed me and had me in a chokehold.
What powerful scenes and heartfelt moments we get in the second half of Vadim and Lacey’s IMPRESSIVE and PASSIONATE story.
If you want a story that will thrill, captivate and give you so many FEELS, you will be thoroughly satisfied and delighted by Vadim and Lacey’s ASTOUNDING and REMARKABLE story.
The EPIC conclusion to the Stravinsky Bratva duet was everything I hoped for and MORE!!
I must say I really really like Lacey’s character. Her growth from the first book is so very interesting. It’s the way she stands up for Vadim and his character, and when she controls those sexy times and calls him Good Boy or Daddy.
So much danger surrounds them but throughout all the chaos their love for each other grows stronger and it’s HEART-GRIPPING.
From beginning to end this book consumed me and had me in a chokehold.
What powerful scenes and heartfelt moments we get in the second half of Vadim and Lacey’s IMPRESSIVE and PASSIONATE story.
If you want a story that will thrill, captivate and give you so many FEELS, you will be thoroughly satisfied and delighted by Vadim and Lacey’s ASTOUNDING and REMARKABLE story.
February 22, 2025
Picking up at book one’s cliffhanger. Vadim is left wondering how his plan went so sideways. After seeing his mother for the first time in years, he comes to the realization that his new wife Lacey has disappeared.
Can Vadim find Lacey, help his mother, and keep his plan moving forward of bringing down his enemies? That is the million dollar question. Especially when feelings and emotions come into play. One’s he never wanted to feel, nor had never planned on admitting he feels.
Lacey grew up letting people walk all over her, never standing up for herself, and only starting to find her voice while interacting with Vadim. Now that the outspoken side of her is unlocked, will she finally fight for what she wants. Take a stand and become the bratva queen Vadim needs to help him take down his enemies.
Can Vadim find Lacey, help his mother, and keep his plan moving forward of bringing down his enemies? That is the million dollar question. Especially when feelings and emotions come into play. One’s he never wanted to feel, nor had never planned on admitting he feels.
Lacey grew up letting people walk all over her, never standing up for herself, and only starting to find her voice while interacting with Vadim. Now that the outspoken side of her is unlocked, will she finally fight for what she wants. Take a stand and become the bratva queen Vadim needs to help him take down his enemies.
February 25, 2025
The rocks are still winning…
She’s still in competition with a bag of rocks, but she did have a few good ideas this time. She’s also become less naive and gentle. Becoming a true pakhan’s wife has hardened her in some ways.
Lots going on in this book. The traffickers are being investigated and the rings are being broken up. Our ML’s company continues to operate under the cover of the luxury fashion brand, saving women.
Kisan and his daughter finally get theirs, thankfully. The happy ever after finally comes along, with hints about the sister and the right hand guy hooking up. That might be interesting since I liked her character a lot, even though she was way too much of an aggressive reporter. Note that the FL actually broke the NDA terms by telling her sister what was happening.
Not a keeper, turns out. More plot and less spice would have helped too…
She’s still in competition with a bag of rocks, but she did have a few good ideas this time. She’s also become less naive and gentle. Becoming a true pakhan’s wife has hardened her in some ways.
Lots going on in this book. The traffickers are being investigated and the rings are being broken up. Our ML’s company continues to operate under the cover of the luxury fashion brand, saving women.
Kisan and his daughter finally get theirs, thankfully. The happy ever after finally comes along, with hints about the sister and the right hand guy hooking up. That might be interesting since I liked her character a lot, even though she was way too much of an aggressive reporter. Note that the FL actually broke the NDA terms by telling her sister what was happening.
Not a keeper, turns out. More plot and less spice would have helped too…
March 21, 2025
This is a great continuation of the first book, the characters are finally coming to realize that they love each other and are the better half of each other. When things start to come to a head about the trafficking , they and their friends and allies come together and they take out the head of the ring and they start to slowly unravel it and save the hundreds of girls and women who were put into danger for trying to make their dreams come true.
Along the way their love continues to grow stronger and they make a great team and power couple of the Bratva.
Along the way their love continues to grow stronger and they make a great team and power couple of the Bratva.
May 21, 2025
Not-so-beautiful agony is what reading this book was. Holy cow, was this book boring. If you’re looking for 800 (super repetitive and long) spicy scenes, then here you go! Enjoy! Oh, and I hope you like degradation kink, because you’re getting it. If you’re not into all that, plan on skimming 85% of this book. Even when things were happening, they were boring and not worth reading about. The first book was slightly less bad, but barely. The premise of this was good, and the writing wasn’t bad, but the plot and pacing were just awful, I don’t know how this duology has such a high rating.
February 13, 2025
It’s a good read. Some of it was very far fetched. Why would you have the doctor that tried to harm you be given a second chance with your medical care? The usage of the word whore was way overdone. I could’ve done without that. But I enjoyed both in this series. The chemistry was great between the two MC. I liked that the bratva was fighting for a good cause. Redemption for a lot of family members
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 18, 2025
I wasn’t going to leave a review but…
I think this has to be said because I was not warned. There was too much sex or should I say the scenes were extremely long. I found that kind of annoying and just basically skipped through. Not a bad book although there is a peeve of mine that I absolutely abhor. Using the Lord’s name as a curse word. Show some respect when you mention Jesus Christ😇
I think this has to be said because I was not warned. There was too much sex or should I say the scenes were extremely long. I found that kind of annoying and just basically skipped through. Not a bad book although there is a peeve of mine that I absolutely abhor. Using the Lord’s name as a curse word. Show some respect when you mention Jesus Christ😇
February 1, 2025
Part 2 in this duo and what a perfect ending to this story, Lacey and Vadim must reconcile their pasts to build a future together.
An explosive conclusion to the building story. Lacey takes on more as a Bratva queen it becomes apparent she is willing to support her husband on bringing down him enemies.
An explosive conclusion to the building story. Lacey takes on more as a Bratva queen it becomes apparent she is willing to support her husband on bringing down him enemies.
March 1, 2025
Their war against evil.
Pain, guilt, danger, betrayal, fear, anger, blood and passion are all twisted together as Lacey and Vadim's intense love story continues in this second book of the Stravinsky Bratva. It's an emotional tale that reveals dark secrets about the cruelty, violence and terror of human trafficking. And justice is served.
Pain, guilt, danger, betrayal, fear, anger, blood and passion are all twisted together as Lacey and Vadim's intense love story continues in this second book of the Stravinsky Bratva. It's an emotional tale that reveals dark secrets about the cruelty, violence and terror of human trafficking. And justice is served.
March 19, 2025
Shoe drops, but where does it land?
Vadim & Lacey finally finds their footing when the final shoe drops. Of course their expecting it just not the way that it comes at them. Larina decides she wants to be an early bird & they finally get their honeymoon, where more unexpected activities await.
Vadim & Lacey finally finds their footing when the final shoe drops. Of course their expecting it just not the way that it comes at them. Larina decides she wants to be an early bird & they finally get their honeymoon, where more unexpected activities await.
April 22, 2025
Beautiful
These two worked well together. The way they learned to forgive. Not allowing outsiders to interfere with their life. The way they brought two broken families together.watching her stand by his side.
Both outfit their lives in danger to protect those that couldn't protect themselves.
Well written.
These two worked well together. The way they learned to forgive. Not allowing outsiders to interfere with their life. The way they brought two broken families together.watching her stand by his side.
Both outfit their lives in danger to protect those that couldn't protect themselves.
Well written.
February 2, 2025
Lacey and Vadim worked well together believing in each other. It’s what I’ve come to really enjoy about Brook’s books that it’s not a 3rd act breakup but how the couple work and support each other through the trials what they have to face and overcome.
February 4, 2025
The second book picks up the story right where it left off, and Vadim rescues Lacey fairly quickly. After that, things get sorted out, and the villains are killed. The biggest downside is that the story has at least 10 extra chapters.
April 10, 2025
My goodness! I loved this book! I love the growth, the secrets, and how everything worked out. I love the vulnerability both Vadim and Lacey showed. Also the healing that his mom and he had was perfect. It was what they needed. I do hope Megan gets her own story and happy ending.
May 11, 2025
first book I wanted to punch the main character in the face every page, but this book their love blossoms and I like him. I like them together. I just had to know what happens next even though extremely triggering topics.
February 1, 2025
A great finish for this duet! The ending is amazing. There was twist and turns that I didn’t see coming. A must read
February 2, 2025
Great ending to this story! Enjoyable and engaging with great characters.
February 3, 2025
I couldn't wait to start this book after the ending of the first one. It didn't disappoint. I love a happy ending after a long, angsty ride.
February 6, 2025
Most riveting book. Kept you in suspense. Loved both books. Look forward to reading your other books
February 17, 2025
Another Great One
I enjoyed this one just as much as the first one. What an ending. This one had an ending that I didn't see coming. Great Job Brook Wilder.HAPPY READING EVERYONE.
I enjoyed this one just as much as the first one. What an ending. This one had an ending that I didn't see coming. Great Job Brook Wilder.HAPPY READING EVERYONE.
March 1, 2025
Get a box of Kleenex
The first book I cried, this one I think I went through a whole box. Well worth it. I enjoyed this greatly. A good cry never hurt. Great story.
The first book I cried, this one I think I went through a whole box. Well worth it. I enjoyed this greatly. A good cry never hurt. Great story.
March 13, 2025
I hate when they call them a whore or slut.. it would be a 5 if they didn't say those things
April 24, 2025
I like the story but too long
We needed more details about the traffic women and the deaths of the protagonist were not satisfying indeed more .
We needed more details about the traffic women and the deaths of the protagonist were not satisfying indeed more .
May 7, 2025
Review Coming
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews