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Bound to the Mafia #1
Beautiful Beast
I was forced to choose between saving my sister’s life or marrying the devil himself.
I chose the devil.
When I'm married to Erik Koslov, leader of the Russian mafia, my entire life changes.
Erik is cold and dangerous.
There is no love in his heart.
I marry him to spare my sister the same fate.
I will do anything for my family.
But can I manage to stay married to a man who is pure evil?
At the same time, Erik awakens my body.
His touch lights me on fire.
I’m conflicted between how my body feels for him and how my brain hates him.
I’m not sure what I’m going to do.
But what I do know is that I have to make this marriage work.
Or it could lead to the downfall of my entire family.
Beautiful Beast is the first book in a 6 book series but can be read as a standalone and has a guaranteed happy ending!
I chose the devil.
When I'm married to Erik Koslov, leader of the Russian mafia, my entire life changes.
Erik is cold and dangerous.
There is no love in his heart.
I marry him to spare my sister the same fate.
I will do anything for my family.
But can I manage to stay married to a man who is pure evil?
At the same time, Erik awakens my body.
His touch lights me on fire.
I’m conflicted between how my body feels for him and how my brain hates him.
I’m not sure what I’m going to do.
But what I do know is that I have to make this marriage work.
Or it could lead to the downfall of my entire family.
Beautiful Beast is the first book in a 6 book series but can be read as a standalone and has a guaranteed happy ending!
258 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 18, 2025
852 people are currently reading
249 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
June 10, 2025
10/10 would not recommend I don’t know who edited this book but the amount of spelling mistakes and missing or random words was terrible. I powered through only because I can’t not finish I book but definitely won’t be reading any more of these.
June 3, 2025
DNF
I didn’t get very far in this book. When we got to the initial flashback, the fmc kind of just turned me off. She drops a glass and said the housekeeper/maid needed to clean it up. Like it never crossed her mind to just pick it up herself. Then when comparing herself to her sister, she said she was a more striking beauty when she should’ve just said she had stark/striking features. That really annoyed me and made me not want to continue. It kind of came off like she was a bit self-centered.
I didn’t get very far in this book. When we got to the initial flashback, the fmc kind of just turned me off. She drops a glass and said the housekeeper/maid needed to clean it up. Like it never crossed her mind to just pick it up herself. Then when comparing herself to her sister, she said she was a more striking beauty when she should’ve just said she had stark/striking features. That really annoyed me and made me not want to continue. It kind of came off like she was a bit self-centered.
March 25, 2025
We met Anya on her wedding day, being a daughter in the Bratva she knew this day would come. Her horrible abusive father sees this marriage as his way to gain more power and allies in the Bratva world, So he marries Anya off to "The Boogeyman”, also known as Erik Koslov. Anya knows all about Erik's reputation and refuses to go down without a fight, she tries everything she can think of but her father just uses her sister, Nadia, as a pawn to keep Anya in line.
Erik is even more terrifying in person than his reputation leads one to believe, but he also has a calmer side, a more practical side that Anya wasn't expecting. When the two spend time together it shocks each one that perhaps they could put their walls down and find a common ground. With enemies circling they have to come together and show a united front more than ever.
This was a really good mafia book, I wouldn't say it was really dark, the violence was light compared to some books i have read. I liked the two MCs together, Erik is a perfect bratva don.
I did like Anya too but sometimes she didn't know when to quit, She's actually quite suffocating to her sister in my opinion. Good read i will read the rest of the series.
Erik is even more terrifying in person than his reputation leads one to believe, but he also has a calmer side, a more practical side that Anya wasn't expecting. When the two spend time together it shocks each one that perhaps they could put their walls down and find a common ground. With enemies circling they have to come together and show a united front more than ever.
This was a really good mafia book, I wouldn't say it was really dark, the violence was light compared to some books i have read. I liked the two MCs together, Erik is a perfect bratva don.
I did like Anya too but sometimes she didn't know when to quit, She's actually quite suffocating to her sister in my opinion. Good read i will read the rest of the series.
April 29, 2025
I am here for the spice. Everything else?? Irrelevant and truthfully mid. But the spice?? Spicin. I just wish there was more of it. Hehe
March 22, 2025
This was such an anti climatic read with meh spicy scenes. Anya is a twenty year old who grew up with an abusive father and only wants to keep her sister safe. That is it, that is the book. Erick has no personality beside he is so evil, which is fine but give me something to work with. The spicy scenes were so forced between each other and the “love” just wasn’t there. The ending I was just depressed because it had potential but zero character growth and Anya just consistently demanding she wants to keep her sister safe while making it worse for everyone multiple of times.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 24, 2025
This book sucks so bad
This is just the absolute worst. It isn't the childish lame ass dialogue in and of itself, :don't make me shoot you" or "gotta show them who's boos" Its the female main characters stubbornness which was annoying and a little off-putting. that we're 70% into the book and there's no sex just a little fooling around. and now the male main character is getting captured and tied up and that's where I stopped reading. I simply couldn't take it anymore. I will not finish this series and I will not read another book by this author. This was just awful.
This is just the absolute worst. It isn't the childish lame ass dialogue in and of itself, :don't make me shoot you" or "gotta show them who's boos" Its the female main characters stubbornness which was annoying and a little off-putting. that we're 70% into the book and there's no sex just a little fooling around. and now the male main character is getting captured and tied up and that's where I stopped reading. I simply couldn't take it anymore. I will not finish this series and I will not read another book by this author. This was just awful.
March 26, 2025
Beautiful Beast by Ivy Davis is a captivating and intense rollercoaster of emotions that had me hooked from the first page. This story is all about the fine line between love and hate, desire and fear, loyalty and survival. From the very beginning, I was drawn into the tension between the heroine and her cold, menacing husband, Erik Koslov.
Marrying Erik was never about love for our protagonist—this is a survival story, pure and simple. She chooses to marry him to save her sister, but the stakes are higher than she could have imagined. Erik Koslov, the ruthless leader of the Russian mafia, is everything she hates, and yet... there’s something about him that pulls at her. The emotions and internal conflict this woman faces are so palpable, and I found myself empathizing with her every step of the way. She has to navigate this marriage for the sake of her family, all the while grappling with the dangerous man she now belongs to.
Erik is the embodiment of a beautiful beast—powerful, cold, and utterly ruthless—but as the story unfolds, you start to see the layers beneath his icy exterior. He may not have love in his heart, but there’s a magnetic intensity in his presence, and the attraction he stirs in the heroine is undeniable. The chemistry between them is electric, and Davis does a fantastic job of capturing the complexity of their relationship. On one hand, the heroine’s brain knows she can’t trust him; on the other hand, her body reacts in a way she can’t ignore.
I loved how the book explores the tension between their growing physical attraction and the heroine’s internal struggle to stay true to her morals and protect her family. The narrative has a perfect balance of suspense, steam, and emotional depth. Erik’s dominance and the darkness that surrounds him create an atmosphere that is as thrilling as it is dangerous. Yet, beneath it all, there’s a vulnerability in both of them that keeps you rooting for their unlikely connection.
Beautiful Beast is a must-read for fans of mafia romance with a complex, morally gray hero and a strong, conflicted heroine. Ivy Davis brings these characters to life in such a way that you can’t help but feel every moment of tension, passion, and danger. The stakes are high, the chemistry is sizzling, and the twists and turns in this book kept me at the edge of my seat. If you love dark romance with a deep emotional core, this book is for you. I can’t wait to see how this story unfolds in the next book!.
Marrying Erik was never about love for our protagonist—this is a survival story, pure and simple. She chooses to marry him to save her sister, but the stakes are higher than she could have imagined. Erik Koslov, the ruthless leader of the Russian mafia, is everything she hates, and yet... there’s something about him that pulls at her. The emotions and internal conflict this woman faces are so palpable, and I found myself empathizing with her every step of the way. She has to navigate this marriage for the sake of her family, all the while grappling with the dangerous man she now belongs to.
Erik is the embodiment of a beautiful beast—powerful, cold, and utterly ruthless—but as the story unfolds, you start to see the layers beneath his icy exterior. He may not have love in his heart, but there’s a magnetic intensity in his presence, and the attraction he stirs in the heroine is undeniable. The chemistry between them is electric, and Davis does a fantastic job of capturing the complexity of their relationship. On one hand, the heroine’s brain knows she can’t trust him; on the other hand, her body reacts in a way she can’t ignore.
I loved how the book explores the tension between their growing physical attraction and the heroine’s internal struggle to stay true to her morals and protect her family. The narrative has a perfect balance of suspense, steam, and emotional depth. Erik’s dominance and the darkness that surrounds him create an atmosphere that is as thrilling as it is dangerous. Yet, beneath it all, there’s a vulnerability in both of them that keeps you rooting for their unlikely connection.
Beautiful Beast is a must-read for fans of mafia romance with a complex, morally gray hero and a strong, conflicted heroine. Ivy Davis brings these characters to life in such a way that you can’t help but feel every moment of tension, passion, and danger. The stakes are high, the chemistry is sizzling, and the twists and turns in this book kept me at the edge of my seat. If you love dark romance with a deep emotional core, this book is for you. I can’t wait to see how this story unfolds in the next book!.
April 3, 2025
A splendidly written story about an arranged marriage between a young Bratva woman and a Bratva boss due to the woman’s father wanting more power and thinking he will get it if he has his daughter marry the Bratva boss.
The young Bratva woman’s father would beat on the young woman as well as her younger sister. The father never told this to the Bratva boss. The couple never met until the day of their wedding.
The young Bratva woman was a bit scared of the Bratva boss due to the reputation that the Bratva boss has but soon she learns that the Bratva boss is completely different from his reputation.
The Bratva boss and the young Bratva woman’s father bring in more Bratva men to ally themselves with and even go so far as arrange another marriage for the young Bratva woman’s sister which the young Bratva woman doesn’t like.
During the couple's time together the Bratva boss punishes the young Bratva woman for different things. The Bratva boss also forces the young Bratva woman’s father to stop hitting her and even hits him for hitting the young Bratva woman.
The Bratva boss and an Italian Mafia boss have been fighting amongst one another for years but the Italian Mafia boss pushes it into a war after he goes after the Bratva boss along with the young Bratva woman. After several things happen the Bratva boss takes the young Bratva woman’s sister from her father. It all comes to a head when the father as well as the Italian Mafia boss and some of his men come to the Bratva boss’s home where several things happen.
The couple, after the young Bratva woman gets hurt, find that they love one another. The couple finds a place to live and along with the sister are happy at this time. They know that they will have to deal with the father as well as the Italian Mafia boss at some point but at this time they can relax and be together.
Wonderful character which is a page turner that has drama, suspense, intrigue, action and a steamy spicy romance as well as a happily ever after ending.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The young Bratva woman’s father would beat on the young woman as well as her younger sister. The father never told this to the Bratva boss. The couple never met until the day of their wedding.
The young Bratva woman was a bit scared of the Bratva boss due to the reputation that the Bratva boss has but soon she learns that the Bratva boss is completely different from his reputation.
The Bratva boss and the young Bratva woman’s father bring in more Bratva men to ally themselves with and even go so far as arrange another marriage for the young Bratva woman’s sister which the young Bratva woman doesn’t like.
During the couple's time together the Bratva boss punishes the young Bratva woman for different things. The Bratva boss also forces the young Bratva woman’s father to stop hitting her and even hits him for hitting the young Bratva woman.
The Bratva boss and an Italian Mafia boss have been fighting amongst one another for years but the Italian Mafia boss pushes it into a war after he goes after the Bratva boss along with the young Bratva woman. After several things happen the Bratva boss takes the young Bratva woman’s sister from her father. It all comes to a head when the father as well as the Italian Mafia boss and some of his men come to the Bratva boss’s home where several things happen.
The couple, after the young Bratva woman gets hurt, find that they love one another. The couple finds a place to live and along with the sister are happy at this time. They know that they will have to deal with the father as well as the Italian Mafia boss at some point but at this time they can relax and be together.
Wonderful character which is a page turner that has drama, suspense, intrigue, action and a steamy spicy romance as well as a happily ever after ending.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 20, 2025
You might want to make sure to double check that you are buckled up, dangerous men, alpha’s personified, possessive, oh, gorgeous, brooding all the makings of a story consisting with three D’s (dark, delicious, and dirty) 😊. There will be suspense, betrayal, death, darkness, secrets reveled, violence, hope, forgiveness, and maybe even love along the way. Anya is sweet when she wants to be but on a good day, she just tries to get through the day living with an abusive father who thinks of her, her sister as bargaining power for a stronger alliance through marriage, and when an arrangement is made with the Boogeyman that doesn’t scare her it is leaving her little sister alone. Erik sexy as all get out with a reputation of being the Boogeyman proceeding him he isn’t a man you want to cross or be on his radar, he is dangerous, ruthless on a good day, deadly every day, knowing he has to marry for alliance but he won’t every fall in love how can he when he doesn’t have a heart or so he tells himself. Anya refuses to leave her sister unprotected, which leads her to take chances that she wouldn’t normally take her husband to act which draws his attention. Erik is attracted to his little hellcat she doesn’t backdown, her fire draws him keeping him on his toes, but she also pushes his patience, of course he has punishments. Yep, he is the big bad Boogeyman will torture those that come after his family or those he love or protect his business but when it comes to his wife well her punishment is a little different something 😊 but throw in her father who is impatient, abusive but he realizes his desire to see his wife protected, see her smile, make sure she is safe above all are the things that drive him, will he show her that he is there for her as well as her sister, will her father continue to cause problems for them, will they be honest with each other about their feelings, and can they have happiness despite their beginning?
March 6, 2025
Bound to the Mafia by Ivy Davis is a gripping introduction to the Bratva world, filled with danger, alliances, and complex characters. The story follows Anya, an innocent young woman forced into an arranged marriage with Erik Koslov, a ruthless Bratva boss known as “The Boogeyman.” Anya’s father sees the marriage as a way to gain power and strengthen alliances against common enemies, but Anya is determined to protect her sister, Nadia, from their abusive father—even if it means sacrificing her own freedom.
Erik lives up to his terrifying reputation, but Anya isn’t one to back down. Despite her fear, she stands up to him when it matters most, creating a dynamic and tension-filled relationship. The story delves into the struggles of trust and loyalty within the Bratva, as well as the strength of the women who navigate this dangerous world. Anya’s resilience and determination to keep her sister safe make her a compelling heroine, while Erik’s cold exterior slowly reveals layers of complexity.
The book is action-packed, with dark mafia threats lurking at every turn, and the chemistry between Anya and Erik adds a steamy edge to the suspense. While the arranged marriage trope and Bratva politics are intriguing, some aspects of the story could have been further developed to deepen the emotional impact. That said, this is a solid start to the series, offering a fresh perspective on mafia romance with strong characters and plenty of twists. A four-star read for fans of dark, dangerous love stories!
Erik lives up to his terrifying reputation, but Anya isn’t one to back down. Despite her fear, she stands up to him when it matters most, creating a dynamic and tension-filled relationship. The story delves into the struggles of trust and loyalty within the Bratva, as well as the strength of the women who navigate this dangerous world. Anya’s resilience and determination to keep her sister safe make her a compelling heroine, while Erik’s cold exterior slowly reveals layers of complexity.
The book is action-packed, with dark mafia threats lurking at every turn, and the chemistry between Anya and Erik adds a steamy edge to the suspense. While the arranged marriage trope and Bratva politics are intriguing, some aspects of the story could have been further developed to deepen the emotional impact. That said, this is a solid start to the series, offering a fresh perspective on mafia romance with strong characters and plenty of twists. A four-star read for fans of dark, dangerous love stories!
March 13, 2025
Anya has no respect for her father, seeing as he is abusive towards her. Her father being a Bratva man, holds her and her sister Nada good for one thing, and one thing only, to form stronger alliances through marriage.
Erik has allied with Sergei and has a beautiful bride thrown in with it. Someone who will look good on his arm, and that is it. He's not looking for any kind of relationship. Then again, does the Boogeyman have a heart?
Anya is worried about leaving her younger sister, who she has shielded from the abuse with her father once leaving their family home, but she is determined to make sure she is safe. This leads her into situations a good Bratva wife shouldn't be in, and the consequences ensue.
Erik likes the hellcat that is his wife. He likes her backbone, fire, spirited determination, but his patience has limits. He may torture people when they displease him, but he has another form of torture for his wife and she soon finds out that some pain can be pleasurable.
While Erik forms new alliances to solidify their standing, he is dealing with the threat from Dante, head of the Italian mafia. A wayward wife and impatient, abusive father-in-law. Power and money have been his drive in his life, but what drives him now? And is shocked when he realises!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Erik has allied with Sergei and has a beautiful bride thrown in with it. Someone who will look good on his arm, and that is it. He's not looking for any kind of relationship. Then again, does the Boogeyman have a heart?
Anya is worried about leaving her younger sister, who she has shielded from the abuse with her father once leaving their family home, but she is determined to make sure she is safe. This leads her into situations a good Bratva wife shouldn't be in, and the consequences ensue.
Erik likes the hellcat that is his wife. He likes her backbone, fire, spirited determination, but his patience has limits. He may torture people when they displease him, but he has another form of torture for his wife and she soon finds out that some pain can be pleasurable.
While Erik forms new alliances to solidify their standing, he is dealing with the threat from Dante, head of the Italian mafia. A wayward wife and impatient, abusive father-in-law. Power and money have been his drive in his life, but what drives him now? And is shocked when he realises!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 22, 2025
Cat’s Stats
MMC/FMC- Erik and Anya
Genre- Mafia Romance (Bratva)
Length- about 290 pages, plus previews
Heat- open door, explicit, semi-slow burn
Series? I hope so
Safety? Y
Triggers- Abuse, Abuse of a Minor, Violence, Language.
Tropes- Forced/Arranged Marriage, He Ain’t Heavy- He’s My Bratva, Protective Sister, Spanking, The Iceman Cometh.
Mewsings
I liked this book because between the action and waiting for them to fall in love, it held my attention thoroughly. It got me very invested in seeing whether Erik’s ice would melt. And whether Anya could keep her sister safe. I even cried in places, I was so moved. The characters really seemed real and the love between Erik and Anya was touching. Erik’s gradual metamorphosis was particularly good because it seemed like a natural progression; he didn’t suddenly start to be a perfect and caring human being just because there was a ring on his finger. Anya didn’t trust him immediately, and trust was the area that really had to give for there to be an HEA/HFN. And their love happened gradually, which was very appropriate to the characters.
There were still unanswered questions as to the overall story arc, so I really hope we get Nadia’s story next.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
MMC/FMC- Erik and Anya
Genre- Mafia Romance (Bratva)
Length- about 290 pages, plus previews
Heat- open door, explicit, semi-slow burn
Series? I hope so
Safety? Y
Triggers- Abuse, Abuse of a Minor, Violence, Language.
Tropes- Forced/Arranged Marriage, He Ain’t Heavy- He’s My Bratva, Protective Sister, Spanking, The Iceman Cometh.
Mewsings
I liked this book because between the action and waiting for them to fall in love, it held my attention thoroughly. It got me very invested in seeing whether Erik’s ice would melt. And whether Anya could keep her sister safe. I even cried in places, I was so moved. The characters really seemed real and the love between Erik and Anya was touching. Erik’s gradual metamorphosis was particularly good because it seemed like a natural progression; he didn’t suddenly start to be a perfect and caring human being just because there was a ring on his finger. Anya didn’t trust him immediately, and trust was the area that really had to give for there to be an HEA/HFN. And their love happened gradually, which was very appropriate to the characters.
There were still unanswered questions as to the overall story arc, so I really hope we get Nadia’s story next.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 17, 2025
This is the 1st story in the Bound to the Mafia Series when Anya discovers she’s marrying the Boogeyman, Erik of the Russian Bratva she uses her tuff exterior is to keep her sister safe while enduring the never ending beatings from her father. Erik is a man with no emotions and only needs a wife for a strong alliance and power to keep the Italians from causing problems. Anya tries and tries unsuccessfully to rescue her sister and each time her father finds he has some authority over her even though she’s married. Erik warns him to keep his hands to himself with no real threat. These men are dense when it comes to treating their wives with some decency. As Erik grows his alliance with other men they form a plan and when an evening in his home creates a chaotic night do things go upside down for the alliance but also shows Erik what Anya really means to him. these two develop real feelings and find a way to work together. When Erik puts his foot down with her father do things really change for them! The suspense and twist will have their story come crashing to a halt and the outcome will have you ready for the next story in this explosive mafia series! I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 13, 2025
Anya and Erik's story was a good read. I love that Anya is not a timid girl, like the ones you read about in other mafia stories. She speaks her mind most of the time and doesn't mince words, even knowing she's going to get punished for it. What irked me at times about her plotting to save her sister. I get Anya's love and protectiveness for her sister, but she keeps making things worse. It could of ended up getting someone killed.
Erik is described as the boogeyman and the most feared man in the Bratva. He doesn't make excuses for the type of man he is, one that isn't afraid to get his hands dirty. I love that he finds her fascinating and allows her to talk freely. It's funny that he finds it amusing. Their banter back and forth is funny to read. I feel like I'm missing why Dante wants him dead though. The backstory of their rivalry should've been explored more. It would explain more why he decided to build a coalition with Anya's father Sergei (HATE HIM), Viktor, and Ivan.
The ending was a little anticlimactic for a mafia story. I expected a big violent confrontation with Dante dead (and Sergie honestly), but that's not what we got. It was an explosion, but Dante lives on. This sets the stage for the next book in the series. It's going to be interesting how it unfolds.
Erik is described as the boogeyman and the most feared man in the Bratva. He doesn't make excuses for the type of man he is, one that isn't afraid to get his hands dirty. I love that he finds her fascinating and allows her to talk freely. It's funny that he finds it amusing. Their banter back and forth is funny to read. I feel like I'm missing why Dante wants him dead though. The backstory of their rivalry should've been explored more. It would explain more why he decided to build a coalition with Anya's father Sergei (HATE HIM), Viktor, and Ivan.
The ending was a little anticlimactic for a mafia story. I expected a big violent confrontation with Dante dead (and Sergie honestly), but that's not what we got. It was an explosion, but Dante lives on. This sets the stage for the next book in the series. It's going to be interesting how it unfolds.
August 2, 2025
I always love reading mafia romance so I was excited to read an ARC copy of this book. I tried to avoid any including any spoilers in my review!
Anya has a very strained relationship with her father, who you find out is a terrible person, and she ends up in an arranged marriage with Erik. The FMC and MMC try to figure out if they can trust each other after getting married as strangers. It is a slow burn so it is "all business" at first until Anya and Erik slowly begin to build a friendship and then relationship that is tested by complications within Anya's family and normal mafia/bratva business dealings. I enjoyed seeing Erik open up and show his protective streak and stand up for Anya and her sister, Nadia.
There are two things that frustrated me to the point that I debated about finishing the book, but I had to know what happened. Anya acted like the biggest brat over and over again for SO long, way too long in my opinion. Her behavior made her seem like a child instead of someone who was old enough to get married! Also, there are numerous grammatical errors and typos which made me wonder if an editor had even reviewed it. 🫤.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Anya has a very strained relationship with her father, who you find out is a terrible person, and she ends up in an arranged marriage with Erik. The FMC and MMC try to figure out if they can trust each other after getting married as strangers. It is a slow burn so it is "all business" at first until Anya and Erik slowly begin to build a friendship and then relationship that is tested by complications within Anya's family and normal mafia/bratva business dealings. I enjoyed seeing Erik open up and show his protective streak and stand up for Anya and her sister, Nadia.
There are two things that frustrated me to the point that I debated about finishing the book, but I had to know what happened. Anya acted like the biggest brat over and over again for SO long, way too long in my opinion. Her behavior made her seem like a child instead of someone who was old enough to get married! Also, there are numerous grammatical errors and typos which made me wonder if an editor had even reviewed it. 🫤.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 24, 2025
Erik Koslov, aka the Boogeyman is the head of a Bratva that is seeking more power by aligning with Sergei Belov. Sergei offers up his daughter, Anya to seal the deal but she is extremely reluctant to be part of the deal. Erik and Anya meet at the alter but his "reputation" has preceded this meeting, and she is convinced that he will beat or torture her as her father has done since her mother died. While she is not scared for herself, she is worried that her younger sister will now be beaten by her father, she decides that making this marriage work will hopefully get Erik to be an ally and help protect Nadia. There is a new villain that is causing havoc in Erik's life and Anya's by proxy so while they struggle to decide how their life together will proceed; they need to make sure they stay alive while doing so. There are Easter Eggs sprinkled throughout this story that allude to who Nadia's husband might be in a subsequent book but since there are several possible men, I can't wait to read her story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 16, 2025
** 5 stars**
This book hooked me from the beginning. I enjoyed this new to me author very much. The characters were fresh and amazingly good.
Anya has been arranged to be married to Erik as a means for her cruel father to align with him. She and her sister have been mistreated by their father for a long time. Anya understandably has trust issues with men. Erik aligned with her father Sergei to be stronger in the mafia world. What Erik comes to realize is that Anya is very strong-willed. She doesn't back down from anyone and only wants to keep her sister safe.
The story of Anya and Erik was so fresh to me. It was a slow burn which I enjoyed immensely. The interaction between these two characters was so good. I loved how Erik came to care for Anya even when he didn't realize he did. He had the reputation of being a bad man. I enjoyed the twists in their story. It was a very good read with a lot of action and romance.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book hooked me from the beginning. I enjoyed this new to me author very much. The characters were fresh and amazingly good.
Anya has been arranged to be married to Erik as a means for her cruel father to align with him. She and her sister have been mistreated by their father for a long time. Anya understandably has trust issues with men. Erik aligned with her father Sergei to be stronger in the mafia world. What Erik comes to realize is that Anya is very strong-willed. She doesn't back down from anyone and only wants to keep her sister safe.
The story of Anya and Erik was so fresh to me. It was a slow burn which I enjoyed immensely. The interaction between these two characters was so good. I loved how Erik came to care for Anya even when he didn't realize he did. He had the reputation of being a bad man. I enjoyed the twists in their story. It was a very good read with a lot of action and romance.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 2, 2025
4.5 stars! When you are told you are marrying the boogeyman of the Bratva, what would you do? If you don't marry him, your dad will make your seventeen year old sister marry him. Her father, Sergei Belov, wants an alliance with Erik Koslov. He is a cold-hearted man who is very successful but loves torturing those who deserve it. There are all kinds of stories and rumors about the things he has done. Erik needs alliances since the Italian mafia is growing stronger and targeting him.
Anya knows about pain since her father takes out his anger on her for years. She did it gladly, so he left her sister Nadia along. She is a firecracker, though, and will do anything to save her sister. She hates that she has to leave Nadia in her father's house. She will do anything to make sure she is safe and gets herself into trouble time and time again. A couple of good twists keep you reading to the last page.
I voluntarily wrote this review from reading an advanced copy of this book.
Anya knows about pain since her father takes out his anger on her for years. She did it gladly, so he left her sister Nadia along. She is a firecracker, though, and will do anything to save her sister. She hates that she has to leave Nadia in her father's house. She will do anything to make sure she is safe and gets herself into trouble time and time again. A couple of good twists keep you reading to the last page.
I voluntarily wrote this review from reading an advanced copy of this book.
March 20, 2025
I didn’t want to stop reading!
Beautiful Beast by Ivy Davis is a gripping mafia romance that centers on Anya, a girl whose mafia boss father arranged for her to marry Erik, another mafia boss. Initially, Anya can't stand Erik and wants nothing to do with him, even trying to escape her situation. However, as Erik shows her that he means her no harm, she decides to stay, driven by a desire to protect her sister from a similar fate.
The story is filled with tension and emotional moments as Anya and Erik navigate their complicated relationship. Davis's writing keeps you engaged, allowing readers to feel Anya and Erik’s struggles and growth. The plot takes a dramatic turn when Anya is shot, leading Erik to realize his true feelings for her while she is in surgery.
Overall, Beautiful Beast is a captivating tale of love, sacrifice, and the complexities of loyalty in the mafia world. It's a must-read for fans of dark romance!
Beautiful Beast by Ivy Davis is a gripping mafia romance that centers on Anya, a girl whose mafia boss father arranged for her to marry Erik, another mafia boss. Initially, Anya can't stand Erik and wants nothing to do with him, even trying to escape her situation. However, as Erik shows her that he means her no harm, she decides to stay, driven by a desire to protect her sister from a similar fate.
The story is filled with tension and emotional moments as Anya and Erik navigate their complicated relationship. Davis's writing keeps you engaged, allowing readers to feel Anya and Erik’s struggles and growth. The plot takes a dramatic turn when Anya is shot, leading Erik to realize his true feelings for her while she is in surgery.
Overall, Beautiful Beast is a captivating tale of love, sacrifice, and the complexities of loyalty in the mafia world. It's a must-read for fans of dark romance!
March 10, 2025
Ivy Davis does a wonderful job writing bratva dark romances. All of her books have been great.
Anya is forced to marry Erik in a marriage of power. Anya has been abused by her father, so she isn't worried about herself being hurt. However, her younger sister is all she cares about. While her and Erik try to make it work, Any constantly runs away and tries to see her sister.
This is the first book where the FMC drove me crazy. I understand writing anguish and suspense, but dang girl, can you just not run away and constantly talk in circles about your sister.
Erik is a saint for how he puts up with it. Without abusing her, he deals with her Brat self. Eventually, they come to care for each other and find love.
Anya is forced to marry Erik in a marriage of power. Anya has been abused by her father, so she isn't worried about herself being hurt. However, her younger sister is all she cares about. While her and Erik try to make it work, Any constantly runs away and tries to see her sister.
This is the first book where the FMC drove me crazy. I understand writing anguish and suspense, but dang girl, can you just not run away and constantly talk in circles about your sister.
Erik is a saint for how he puts up with it. Without abusing her, he deals with her Brat self. Eventually, they come to care for each other and find love.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 16, 2025
Anya is the daughter of a Bratva Boss who has already experienced a horrible, arranged marriage. Her husband was killed so she is again back at her father's home with her younger sister Nadia. Her father, Sergei Bevlov, wants an alliance with Eric Koslov so he promises Eric his younger daughter Nadia. Anya is having none of that. When Eric comes to finalize the arrangement, the sparks start to fly. Eric decides he wants Anya with all her fire and backbone not the mousey Nadia. Eric is known for being cold and ruthless man. This was a slow burn romance but has a huge payoff as the story progresses. The boogeyman does indeed have a heart. This was a good read, and I definitely recommend it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 18, 2025
Growing up in the Bratva, abused by her brutal father, Anya knows she is a pawn, expected to marry who her father chooses. But she wonders if she will survive a marriage to Erik, the man known as the boogeyman, whose skills at torture are legendary.
I liked this book. This is a dark, violent world where no one is safe. Erik doesn't want a wife, but he wouldn't abuse her, or allow anyone, even her father, to abuse her. Anya will submit to any punishment in an attempt to protect her sister, who she has sheltered and raised since their mother died many years before. Trust between the couple is slow to come, and love takes even longer, but they finally find their HEA.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I liked this book. This is a dark, violent world where no one is safe. Erik doesn't want a wife, but he wouldn't abuse her, or allow anyone, even her father, to abuse her. Anya will submit to any punishment in an attempt to protect her sister, who she has sheltered and raised since their mother died many years before. Trust between the couple is slow to come, and love takes even longer, but they finally find their HEA.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 19, 2025
I really enjoyed reading this book. With my dyslexia I tend to struggle to maintain my concentration with books over 200 pages unless they really grab my attention so the fact that I finished this book and gave it 5 stars really does tell you how much I enjoyed it.
I liked that it wasn't a 'they got married at the beginning of the book and fell in love straight away' book as it would have been really unrealistic for the initial storyline. Seeing the relationship between Anya and Erik develop through the book was really nice but was still not plain sailing with many bumps and disagreements along the way.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I liked that it wasn't a 'they got married at the beginning of the book and fell in love straight away' book as it would have been really unrealistic for the initial storyline. Seeing the relationship between Anya and Erik develop through the book was really nice but was still not plain sailing with many bumps and disagreements along the way.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 23, 2025
What can I say? The connection-building and the supposed "special bond" at the end felt horrible, as did the telenovela-style ending. Then there were the awkward dialogue and the random sex scene... The age gap between an 18-year-old and a man over 30 isn’t much better than 17—still feels like a child bride situation to me.
The characters' motivations felt unrealistic, and the mafia setting was poorly executed. The main guy lets his untrustworthy business partners roam freely around his house? Alright then... Also, did the author ever actually meet a Russian? Because these "Russians" felt very American to me. I was expecting more structure, culture, and a real mafia atmosphere, but it was all pretty lacking.
Rant over.
The characters' motivations felt unrealistic, and the mafia setting was poorly executed. The main guy lets his untrustworthy business partners roam freely around his house? Alright then... Also, did the author ever actually meet a Russian? Because these "Russians" felt very American to me. I was expecting more structure, culture, and a real mafia atmosphere, but it was all pretty lacking.
Rant over.
March 2, 2025
Can an innocent young lady have an arranged marriage and learn to love a Bratva mafia monster/boogeyman, or will it just be a practical marriage for power purposes for the Mafia boss? You'll have to read to find out!
This book was quite the page turner. It promises a mix of tension, passion, drama and can be read as a standalone. If you like dark romance with a Mafia twist this may be an intriguing read for you. The only thing I didn't like was Sergei!!!
Thank you to the author for the free download for an honest review.
This book was quite the page turner. It promises a mix of tension, passion, drama and can be read as a standalone. If you like dark romance with a Mafia twist this may be an intriguing read for you. The only thing I didn't like was Sergei!!!
Thank you to the author for the free download for an honest review.
March 6, 2025
3.5 stars
Anya and Erik, a long, at times complicated story It starts with an arranged marriage, purpose being to strengthen Erik’s supporters. There is absolutely no love between these two, no passion, no friendship, just Anya’s anger.
Over time and after much bratva/mafia drama these two find a connection and some passion does follow.
No cheating and even though their story is over I trust we will hear more about them in future books.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Anya and Erik, a long, at times complicated story It starts with an arranged marriage, purpose being to strengthen Erik’s supporters. There is absolutely no love between these two, no passion, no friendship, just Anya’s anger.
Over time and after much bratva/mafia drama these two find a connection and some passion does follow.
No cheating and even though their story is over I trust we will hear more about them in future books.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 9, 2025
EEEK, I get all excited and feel like a little girl who just received her very own doll type of feeling when Ivy has a new book out, and OMG it's the start of Bound to the Mafia series. Anya and Erik deliver one heck of a mafia romance story that has everything else fade away from your mind except this book and OMG what a book it is. The connection between these two characters is electric and sends a shiver down your spine. So, YES, I absolutely recommend this book by Ivy because it is truly AWESOME
March 19, 2025
What a wonderful Bratva story. We follow Anya and Erik, she is faced with a dilemma will her sister be married off to Erik also called the Boogeyman so that her father will benefit if one of his daughters marries him. He is not well known, she is afraid that it will become an abusive relationship and she is afraid of him. Erik finds Anya a challenge and also the way she protects her sister from him. Will they find what they are looking for together?
I received an Advance Reader copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an Advance Reader copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 22, 2025
This is a wonderfully written and entertaining story and Erik and Anya are the main characters. Erik Koslov is the cruel, dangerous head of the Bratva and Anya Belov is a strong spirited young woman that only wants to keep her younger sister safe. This book is action-packed, with suspense, violence, danger, emotions and romance.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 11, 2025
Anya and Erik
I really wanted to like this story but it just fell flat in the end for me. It’s told thru dual POVs with no epilogue.
Anya is head strong but at times it’s to a fault and it’s annoying. I love a fierce female lead but she was over the top and it got old.
Erik was a great antagonist male, but his constant I don’t care and you mean nothing was repeated so much.
On top of everything was the extra words and typos. One or two is cool, things happen. But it was several and it took away from the story in my opinion.
I really wanted to like this story but it just fell flat in the end for me. It’s told thru dual POVs with no epilogue.
Anya is head strong but at times it’s to a fault and it’s annoying. I love a fierce female lead but she was over the top and it got old.
Erik was a great antagonist male, but his constant I don’t care and you mean nothing was repeated so much.
On top of everything was the extra words and typos. One or two is cool, things happen. But it was several and it took away from the story in my opinion.
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