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Devils Will Rise: Melnikov Legacy #5
Born into Darkness
She’s my light in the darkness.
Maxim:
Kidnapped, tortured, and chained to a wall… It’s not at all how I imagined meeting the love of my life.
Music has always been my passion, but as soon as I see Talia Medvedev, I know things have changed.
I become obsessed, and instead of the familiar black-and white keys, it’s her body I want to play—her moans, the beautiful music I want to hear.
She quickly becomes my reason for breathing, and I’ll do anything to protect her, even if that means making the biggest sacrifice of my life.
Talia:
Scared, filthy, and chained to a wall… it’s not the meet cute I’ve always envisioned for myself, but there’s no denying how I feel about my grey-eyed fellow prisoner, the man with the gorgeous hands—long fingers built for playing the piano that I know could work my body just as beautifully.
He may be a dangerous Bratva boss, but he makes me feel safe, gives me his food and water, and holds my hand so I can sleep.
He becomes my protector, and when our captors force an impossible choice—my innocence or his hands—he chooses me.
It’s a sacrifice I’m not sure I’ll ever be able to repay…a sacrifice I hope we can both survive.
🖤 Dark Mafia Romance
🖤 Forced Proximity
🖤 V-Card MMC and FMC
🖤 He’ll sacrifice everything for her
🖤 Obsessed MMC
🖤 Touch her and ☠️
🖤 Crossover novel—Medvedev and Melnikov Bratvas!!
🖤 Russian nickname
🖤 No 3rd act breakup or miscommunication trope!
🖤 No cheating or OW drama!
Maxim:
Kidnapped, tortured, and chained to a wall… It’s not at all how I imagined meeting the love of my life.
Music has always been my passion, but as soon as I see Talia Medvedev, I know things have changed.
I become obsessed, and instead of the familiar black-and white keys, it’s her body I want to play—her moans, the beautiful music I want to hear.
She quickly becomes my reason for breathing, and I’ll do anything to protect her, even if that means making the biggest sacrifice of my life.
Talia:
Scared, filthy, and chained to a wall… it’s not the meet cute I’ve always envisioned for myself, but there’s no denying how I feel about my grey-eyed fellow prisoner, the man with the gorgeous hands—long fingers built for playing the piano that I know could work my body just as beautifully.
He may be a dangerous Bratva boss, but he makes me feel safe, gives me his food and water, and holds my hand so I can sleep.
He becomes my protector, and when our captors force an impossible choice—my innocence or his hands—he chooses me.
It’s a sacrifice I’m not sure I’ll ever be able to repay…a sacrifice I hope we can both survive.
🖤 Dark Mafia Romance
🖤 Forced Proximity
🖤 V-Card MMC and FMC
🖤 He’ll sacrifice everything for her
🖤 Obsessed MMC
🖤 Touch her and ☠️
🖤 Crossover novel—Medvedev and Melnikov Bratvas!!
🖤 Russian nickname
🖤 No 3rd act breakup or miscommunication trope!
🖤 No cheating or OW drama!
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Published May 4, 2025
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May 2, 2025
Max and Talia 🥺♥️ I loved them. Talk about break your heart. Their story was such an emotional one, and I loved every minute of it.
“𝑻𝒆𝒍𝒍 𝒎𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖’𝒓𝒆 𝒔𝒆𝒙𝒚.”
𝑹𝒆𝒑𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒅𝒔 𝒊𝒔 𝒔𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑰 𝒄𝒂𝒏 𝒔𝒕𝒊𝒍𝒍 𝒎𝒂𝒏𝒂𝒈𝒆, 𝒔𝒐 𝑰 𝒒𝒖𝒊𝒄𝒌𝒍𝒚 𝒏𝒐𝒅 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒔𝒂𝒚, “𝑰’𝒎 𝒔𝒆𝒙𝒚.” “𝑮𝒐𝒐𝒅 𝒈𝒊𝒓𝒍,” 𝒉𝒆 𝒎𝒖𝒓𝒎𝒖𝒓𝒔, 𝒈𝒊𝒗𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒎𝒆 𝒂𝒏𝒐𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒓𝒖𝒃. “𝑻𝒉𝒂𝒕’𝒔 𝒏𝒐𝒕 𝒔𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑰 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒕 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒕𝒐 𝒇𝒐𝒓𝒈𝒆𝒕. 𝑰 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒃𝒐𝒅𝒚, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑰’𝒎 𝒈𝒐𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒐 𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒑𝒍𝒊𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝒊𝒕 𝒂 𝒍𝒐𝒕 𝒃𝒆𝒄𝒂𝒖𝒔𝒆 𝑰 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒌 𝒊𝒕’𝒔 𝒑𝒆𝒓𝒇𝒆𝒄𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏. 𝑰𝒕’𝒔 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚 𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒍𝒆 𝒊𝒏𝒄𝒉 𝒐𝒇 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒄𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒆𝒅 𝒋𝒖𝒔𝒕 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒎𝒆 𝒕𝒐 𝒆𝒏𝒋𝒐𝒚. 𝒀𝒐𝒖 𝒎𝒂𝒌𝒆 𝒎𝒆 𝒉𝒆𝒂𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒎𝒐𝒔𝒕 𝒃𝒆𝒂𝒖𝒕𝒊𝒇𝒖𝒍 𝒎𝒖𝒔𝒊𝒄 𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝑰 𝒔𝒆𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖. 𝒀𝒐𝒖’𝒓𝒆 𝒂 𝒘𝒂𝒍𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒔𝒚𝒎𝒑𝒉𝒐𝒏𝒚, 𝒔𝒗𝒆𝒕𝒊𝒌 𝒎𝒐𝒚.”
We all want someone who takes the good with the bad, makes you feel safe and protected, and where you can be your true self. And don’t forget someone who knows how to blow your mind in the bedroom 😏😉
I love this series and can't wait to read the next one.
May 5, 2025
This was okay-ish, I guess. Possibly some spoilers below, so read at your own risk. 😶
The first half was freaking stressful, ngl about that. I was on edge thinking of the horrible things that might happen to them in their captivity. I was desperately hoping for it to be finally over because I can't take it anymore. 🤣😭 I'm getting a bit panicky every time that one evil henchman who had it bad for Max keeps visiting them. I've exhausted myself, overthinking time and again what creative torture this POS might inflict on them next. It was draining and nerve-wracking. 😩
Then, after nearly two months in captivity, rescue finally arrived. I'm really in awe of how Max (21) was able to survive all the things he went through in that basement. This man was something else. I guess it helps that Talia (21) was there with him and has been his motivation for not giving up.
But after their rescue, I think that's where the story fell flat for me. The second half became a cheesefest and was more focused on their physical intimacy. It felt like the longest foreplay I've ever read. And idk, I just got bored because this fooling around could last for a whole chapter, and the next one will have a steamy scene again, only with a different variation. Maybe they're just making up for their lost time??
There's also the fact that their families have merged, and when I tell you I was at a loss, I wasn't kidding. There are too many characters that were dumped in this book. I can't for the life of me remember who's who. Every time I read a name, I have to think hard again of who that was or whom they related to. I think my memory is getting worse with age. 😅
Tbh, idk what to expect after their rescue. But the one thing I wanted for them was therapy. I don't think they could just easily forget or move on from what they've been through. That was almost two months of hell. While I know a supportive and loving family will be a great help, I still think they need to seek some professional help, but we got none of this. But then again, maybe they don't see the need for it. 🤷♀️
Then after a month of their freedom, they decided to get married because apparently when you know, you know. I know these men fall hard and fast, but I still think that was waaay too fast. 🙃 Idk, it's just everything felt so quick with their relationship progression. I guess trauma bonding will do that to you.
After their rescue, everything went pretty smoothly—with their relationship and families. It was so smooth sailing that I found myself getting a little bored at times and ended up skimming through some parts. 🫣
Anyway, if you like something a bit on the surface, I think this book might be right up your alley. There were dark themes in it, but I feel that the main focus of this story lies in the romance aspect and the MCs strong ties to their families.
Overall, it was okay. But like I said, there's not much to it. I also don't think it needed to be this long. It could've been shorter and still conveyed the same sentiment to readers by cutting some of the explicit scenes. Then there's the fluffiness and cheesiness, but I think that's a common theme in this series. It got way too sappy for my liking after a while. Also, be ready to get dizzy with all the characters thrown in here because there was really a lot to take.
Anyway, some parts worked for me, some didn't. Still at the end of the day, I hope this book finds its intended audience and gets all the attention it deserves.
Book info:
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The first half was freaking stressful, ngl about that. I was on edge thinking of the horrible things that might happen to them in their captivity. I was desperately hoping for it to be finally over because I can't take it anymore. 🤣😭 I'm getting a bit panicky every time that one evil henchman who had it bad for Max keeps visiting them. I've exhausted myself, overthinking time and again what creative torture this POS might inflict on them next. It was draining and nerve-wracking. 😩
Then, after nearly two months in captivity, rescue finally arrived. I'm really in awe of how Max (21) was able to survive all the things he went through in that basement. This man was something else. I guess it helps that Talia (21) was there with him and has been his motivation for not giving up.
But after their rescue, I think that's where the story fell flat for me. The second half became a cheesefest and was more focused on their physical intimacy. It felt like the longest foreplay I've ever read. And idk, I just got bored because this fooling around could last for a whole chapter, and the next one will have a steamy scene again, only with a different variation. Maybe they're just making up for their lost time??
There's also the fact that their families have merged, and when I tell you I was at a loss, I wasn't kidding. There are too many characters that were dumped in this book. I can't for the life of me remember who's who. Every time I read a name, I have to think hard again of who that was or whom they related to. I think my memory is getting worse with age. 😅
Tbh, idk what to expect after their rescue. But the one thing I wanted for them was therapy. I don't think they could just easily forget or move on from what they've been through. That was almost two months of hell. While I know a supportive and loving family will be a great help, I still think they need to seek some professional help, but we got none of this. But then again, maybe they don't see the need for it. 🤷♀️
Then after a month of their freedom, they decided to get married because apparently when you know, you know. I know these men fall hard and fast, but I still think that was waaay too fast. 🙃 Idk, it's just everything felt so quick with their relationship progression. I guess trauma bonding will do that to you.
After their rescue, everything went pretty smoothly—with their relationship and families. It was so smooth sailing that I found myself getting a little bored at times and ended up skimming through some parts. 🫣
Anyway, if you like something a bit on the surface, I think this book might be right up your alley. There were dark themes in it, but I feel that the main focus of this story lies in the romance aspect and the MCs strong ties to their families.
Overall, it was okay. But like I said, there's not much to it. I also don't think it needed to be this long. It could've been shorter and still conveyed the same sentiment to readers by cutting some of the explicit scenes. Then there's the fluffiness and cheesiness, but I think that's a common theme in this series. It got way too sappy for my liking after a while. Also, be ready to get dizzy with all the characters thrown in here because there was really a lot to take.
Anyway, some parts worked for me, some didn't. Still at the end of the day, I hope this book finds its intended audience and gets all the attention it deserves.
Book info:
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 8, 2025
3,2 💫 | Después de la decepción que fue el libro anterior, me alegra mucho que este me haya gustado 🙏.
La primera parte de este libro solo fue dolor y llanto 😭. Los capítulos de los padres me tenían en parte fangirl y en parte gritando: ¡dejen de perder el tiempo y vayan a rescatarlos! Jskjaja. Pero bno, al final, como en cada libro de Sonja, todo acaba bien.
Fan del crossover 🙂↕️. I need more.
Max y Talia me gustaron. Sus momentos de vulnerabilidad cuando estaban en esa situación y una vez fuera de ella. Creo que es el libro en el que la autora a incluido más comunicación respecto al tema sexual y me encantó 💖 (ambos eran vírgenes, I love it).
No son mi pareja favorita, pero se acercan a mi top 10. Aunque aún faltan muchas por leer y estoy full emocionada 😩 ya los necesito a todos.
Espero, de verdad, que Sonja me de un libro de cada hermano y primo de Talia. Me encantaría seguir leyendo a mi segunda familia favorita. Si bien no ha dejado pistas de parejas futuras, tengo fe en que Talia y Max no serán los únicos en relacionarse (románticamente hablando). Sino, me conformo con sus libros (si, me refiero a Bran. LO EXIJO).
Hola? Qué significa esa escena extra de Mateo? 🤨🤨🤨 Contexto plis.
Sigue el libro de Mia y yo aún tengo miedo. Es que la diferencia de edad es tremenda y me tocará ignorarla (como hice con Dominic y Nat), but no voy a negar que me entusiasma leerla.
Rezo por que su personalidad no se trastorne al enamorarse porque me enfado 🙏 no me importa si no consigue nada en la Bratva, no quiero que su personalidad cambie gracias al amor.
P. D. Sigo con la esperanza de un libro MM. Es que hay tanto hombre, puede ser quien sea, Sonja, no me importa 😭.
La primera parte de este libro solo fue dolor y llanto 😭. Los capítulos de los padres me tenían en parte fangirl y en parte gritando: ¡dejen de perder el tiempo y vayan a rescatarlos! Jskjaja. Pero bno, al final, como en cada libro de Sonja, todo acaba bien.
Fan del crossover 🙂↕️. I need more.
Max y Talia me gustaron. Sus momentos de vulnerabilidad cuando estaban en esa situación y una vez fuera de ella. Creo que es el libro en el que la autora a incluido más comunicación respecto al tema sexual y me encantó 💖 (ambos eran vírgenes, I love it).
No son mi pareja favorita, pero se acercan a mi top 10. Aunque aún faltan muchas por leer y estoy full emocionada 😩 ya los necesito a todos.
Espero, de verdad, que Sonja me de un libro de cada hermano y primo de Talia. Me encantaría seguir leyendo a mi segunda familia favorita. Si bien no ha dejado pistas de parejas futuras, tengo fe en que Talia y Max no serán los únicos en relacionarse (románticamente hablando). Sino, me conformo con sus libros (si, me refiero a Bran. LO EXIJO).
Hola? Qué significa esa escena extra de Mateo? 🤨🤨🤨 Contexto plis.
Sigue el libro de Mia y yo aún tengo miedo. Es que la diferencia de edad es tremenda y me tocará ignorarla (como hice con Dominic y Nat), but no voy a negar que me entusiasma leerla.
Rezo por que su personalidad no se trastorne al enamorarse porque me enfado 🙏 no me importa si no consigue nada en la Bratva, no quiero que su personalidad cambie gracias al amor.
P. D. Sigo con la esperanza de un libro MM. Es que hay tanto hombre, puede ser quien sea, Sonja, no me importa 😭.
November 27, 2025
This book better make me cry SONJA!!!! I am counting on it to dehydrate my tear canals....
I need to see guilt, I need hurt, I need separation, I need healing and I need love so so much of it!!!
Please make it all that! 😭😭😭
_________________________________________
REVIEW
Ughhh I am loving this series so much.
The family values and how tight knit they are just makes me want to be a part of it.
They are so loyal to each other and take care of each other no matter what!
If one is hurting the whole family is hurting.
This book takes off where book 4 stopped. I love how Sonja Grey squeezes those tears and angst from us. The first half of the book kept me on the edge of my seat. I didn’t know what to expect and to see the extent to where Maxim is ready to protect Talia just broke my heart. He is such a great man. Talia was his anchor through all their hardship during captivity and he protected her the best he could even though he was shackled and practically useless but that didn't keep him from claiming her as his own to protect.
I was a bit disappointed when they got separated when rescued. I expected more fight from Talia. I expected her to scream and cling to Maxim, not for them to be separated for a couple of days. For someone who has been your whole salvation your only hope for 2 months, letting him go wasn't the most logical of outcomes. That is what I was waiting for when I was reading Book 4. But alas, beggars can't be choosers.
The second half was much more mellow. It was them enjoying each other as free indviduals. And trying to convince their respective families that this is not the outcome of closeness under duress but rather real love.
It does get a little bit cheesy in the second half but I do not mind it at all because frankly these two deserve it after everything they've been through.
This book connects two previous series by Sonja Grey. Though it was overwhelming at times with all the info dump of names and bratvas but I finally got the hang of it and knew who is who.
I am in awe of her brother Bran and I cannot wait to read his own book.
And then Sasha finding his like minded people from her family was perfect.
Not to mention Vitaly's doppelganger in the form of Valeri, Talia's uncle 😃 hilarious!
Can't wait to read the rest of the series.
Ticking another Fall/Winter 🍁❄️ Bingo square:
35) "house party" their wedding party took place at the family farm house
🔴 | 🔴 | 30 | 🔴 | 🔴 | 20
🔴 | 🔴 | 31 | 14 | 🔴 | 🔴
19 | 🔴 | 13 | 🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴
🔴 | 🔴 | 12 | 🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴
🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴
🔴 | 🔴 | 18 | 🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴
I need to see guilt, I need hurt, I need separation, I need healing and I need love so so much of it!!!
Please make it all that! 😭😭😭
_________________________________________
REVIEW
Ughhh I am loving this series so much.
The family values and how tight knit they are just makes me want to be a part of it.
They are so loyal to each other and take care of each other no matter what!
If one is hurting the whole family is hurting.
This book takes off where book 4 stopped. I love how Sonja Grey squeezes those tears and angst from us. The first half of the book kept me on the edge of my seat. I didn’t know what to expect and to see the extent to where Maxim is ready to protect Talia just broke my heart. He is such a great man. Talia was his anchor through all their hardship during captivity and he protected her the best he could even though he was shackled and practically useless but that didn't keep him from claiming her as his own to protect.
I was a bit disappointed when they got separated when rescued. I expected more fight from Talia. I expected her to scream and cling to Maxim, not for them to be separated for a couple of days. For someone who has been your whole salvation your only hope for 2 months, letting him go wasn't the most logical of outcomes. That is what I was waiting for when I was reading Book 4. But alas, beggars can't be choosers.
The second half was much more mellow. It was them enjoying each other as free indviduals. And trying to convince their respective families that this is not the outcome of closeness under duress but rather real love.
It does get a little bit cheesy in the second half but I do not mind it at all because frankly these two deserve it after everything they've been through.
This book connects two previous series by Sonja Grey. Though it was overwhelming at times with all the info dump of names and bratvas but I finally got the hang of it and knew who is who.
I am in awe of her brother Bran and I cannot wait to read his own book.
And then Sasha finding his like minded people from her family was perfect.
Not to mention Vitaly's doppelganger in the form of Valeri, Talia's uncle 😃 hilarious!
Can't wait to read the rest of the series.
Ticking another Fall/Winter 🍁❄️ Bingo square:
35) "house party" their wedding party took place at the family farm house
🔴 | 🔴 | 30 | 🔴 | 🔴 | 20
🔴 | 🔴 | 31 | 14 | 🔴 | 🔴
19 | 🔴 | 13 | 🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴
🔴 | 🔴 | 12 | 🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴
🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴
🔴 | 🔴 | 18 | 🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴
May 4, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you for the ARC!
It pains me to say that this is my least favorite Sonja book so far. It was way too long, and that was bc of all the filler dialogue and banter between ALL the family members. I understand that this is a universe, and readers want to keep up with previous characters. I can also appreciate every character in the series...that being said, those people had their stories already. I felt like 40% of the book was dedicated to the MCs and the rest was other POVs and random banter between other characters. if I wanted to read another intimate scene between Danil and his wife (which i don't) i would have picked up their book.
As for Talia and Max, I LOVED their story SO much. I'm disappointed bc I wanted more of it. by the time their story really got started, I was over it 😒 keeping up with so many other characters was exhausting. Their romance had everything i love in a romance story. unfortunately, I didnt get enough of it. I may be the minority here and that's fine. I hope that the future books focus more on the MC bc I haven't found this problem in any of the previous books.
Safety info
About as safe as you can get!
Dual Vs. Both totally innocent
Only have eyes for each other
No 3rd act breakup
Thank you for the ARC!
It pains me to say that this is my least favorite Sonja book so far. It was way too long, and that was bc of all the filler dialogue and banter between ALL the family members. I understand that this is a universe, and readers want to keep up with previous characters. I can also appreciate every character in the series...that being said, those people had their stories already. I felt like 40% of the book was dedicated to the MCs and the rest was other POVs and random banter between other characters. if I wanted to read another intimate scene between Danil and his wife (which i don't) i would have picked up their book.
As for Talia and Max, I LOVED their story SO much. I'm disappointed bc I wanted more of it. by the time their story really got started, I was over it 😒 keeping up with so many other characters was exhausting. Their romance had everything i love in a romance story. unfortunately, I didnt get enough of it. I may be the minority here and that's fine. I hope that the future books focus more on the MC bc I haven't found this problem in any of the previous books.
Safety info
About as safe as you can get!
Dual Vs. Both totally innocent
Only have eyes for each other
No 3rd act breakup
April 28, 2025
Born Into Darkness did not disappoint.
While this book can be read as a standalone, I highly recommend reading Born Into Temptation first. It’s where Maxim and Talia’s story begins, and it’ll help you understand the world building and the intricacies of their backgrounds. I’d also recommend reading the other Born Into series. For an even deeper dive into the Bratva world, I’d suggest checking out the Medvedev and Melnikov series to get a full picture of the family dynamics at play.
That said, Born Into Darkness picks up from where Val and Yelena’s book finished, and thrusts you into the journey of Maxim and Talia. The story begins with them being kidnapped, tortured, and chained to a wall by a rival cartel, a far cry from any typical romance novel setup. But out of this darkness, something real and beautiful grows. Max finds himself completely obsessed with Talia, and not just in a physical sense. He’s consumed with the need to protect her, care for her, and give her the strength to survive.
The raw intensity of their situation, the trauma, the forced proximity, made their quick bond feel almost inevitable. Their relationship starts out of necessity, but it builds into something more as they learn to rely on each other emotionally and physically. Max’s obsession doesn’t feel one-sided or superficial; it’s born from the need to survive together, and as the story progresses, you see that it’s not just about physical attraction.
Talia is no damsel in distress. She’s strong, resilient, and quick to adapt to the horrific circumstances she’s thrown into. She’s a daughter of the Medvedev Bratva, but she’s resilient, strong, and protective of those she loves, and it shows. As her bond with Max deepens, they both find strength together with eachother’s presence, creating something beautiful amid their brokenness. The two of them complement each other perfectly, they find ways to survive, and to comfort and protect one another in the worst possible circumstances.
If you’re into dark mafia romance with plenty of intensity, Born Into Darkness has it all. Even though their relationship develops quickly, it’s built on emotional depth and a mutual need to protect each other. Maxim’s devotion to Talia is one of the most powerful parts of this book, and it made their story compelling from start to finish.
Main tropes:
* Dark Mafia Romance
* Forced Proximity
* V-Card MMC and FMC
* He'll sacrifice everything for her
* Obsessed MMC
* Touch her and 💀
* Crossover Medvedev and Melnikov
* Bratva’s.
* Russian nickname
* No 3rd act breakup or miscommunication
* No cheating or OW drama!
5/5 — Maxim and Talia’s story was everything I hoped for after reading Born Into Temptation, and I’m excited to see where Sonja Grey takes us next with Mia’s story…(and Dario? 👀)
While this book can be read as a standalone, I highly recommend reading Born Into Temptation first. It’s where Maxim and Talia’s story begins, and it’ll help you understand the world building and the intricacies of their backgrounds. I’d also recommend reading the other Born Into series. For an even deeper dive into the Bratva world, I’d suggest checking out the Medvedev and Melnikov series to get a full picture of the family dynamics at play.
That said, Born Into Darkness picks up from where Val and Yelena’s book finished, and thrusts you into the journey of Maxim and Talia. The story begins with them being kidnapped, tortured, and chained to a wall by a rival cartel, a far cry from any typical romance novel setup. But out of this darkness, something real and beautiful grows. Max finds himself completely obsessed with Talia, and not just in a physical sense. He’s consumed with the need to protect her, care for her, and give her the strength to survive.
The raw intensity of their situation, the trauma, the forced proximity, made their quick bond feel almost inevitable. Their relationship starts out of necessity, but it builds into something more as they learn to rely on each other emotionally and physically. Max’s obsession doesn’t feel one-sided or superficial; it’s born from the need to survive together, and as the story progresses, you see that it’s not just about physical attraction.
Talia is no damsel in distress. She’s strong, resilient, and quick to adapt to the horrific circumstances she’s thrown into. She’s a daughter of the Medvedev Bratva, but she’s resilient, strong, and protective of those she loves, and it shows. As her bond with Max deepens, they both find strength together with eachother’s presence, creating something beautiful amid their brokenness. The two of them complement each other perfectly, they find ways to survive, and to comfort and protect one another in the worst possible circumstances.
If you’re into dark mafia romance with plenty of intensity, Born Into Darkness has it all. Even though their relationship develops quickly, it’s built on emotional depth and a mutual need to protect each other. Maxim’s devotion to Talia is one of the most powerful parts of this book, and it made their story compelling from start to finish.
Main tropes:
* Dark Mafia Romance
* Forced Proximity
* V-Card MMC and FMC
* He'll sacrifice everything for her
* Obsessed MMC
* Touch her and 💀
* Crossover Medvedev and Melnikov
* Bratva’s.
* Russian nickname
* No 3rd act breakup or miscommunication
* No cheating or OW drama!
5/5 — Maxim and Talia’s story was everything I hoped for after reading Born Into Temptation, and I’m excited to see where Sonja Grey takes us next with Mia’s story…(and Dario? 👀)
May 9, 2025
no saben lo que estaba ANSIANDO y ESPERANDO este libro, sobre todo por saber que le iban a hacer a Talia 😭😭😭
------------------
le doy 4 ⭐ porque lo ansiaba por el bendito cliffhanger del otro libro y porque en términos generales me gustó y no me voy a complicar la vida.
si bien puedo decir que el libro fue aburrido y no pasó mucho, también estuvo soft y lindo 🫢
Maxim no me encaja en la vida de la Bravta y prácticamente no los vimos tocar, siento que quedó sin hacer nada aunque fue por lo de la mano. y siento que Talia fue un personaje plano que no conocimos mucho de ella, ni aficiones ni deseos ni nada. lo del kink de Dom/sub si quedé tiesa porque siento que en parte salió de la nada y en parte siento que a ellos no les salía, tal vez a otra pareja sí pero a ellos no. y como dije, fue aburrido porque no pasó mucho ni en la primera mitad ni en la segunda pero cuando lo veo de lejos sí pasaron cosas 🤣🤣🤣
en fin, vuelvo y lo digo, mi calificación del libro es más por cariño con la saga y que todo salió bien, solo por eso
yo quería que el siguiente libro fuera el de Sasha, mi loquito del centro, pero va a ser el de Mía, si soy sincera no me convence tanto esa pareja pero lo estaré leyendo
------------------
le doy 4 ⭐ porque lo ansiaba por el bendito cliffhanger del otro libro y porque en términos generales me gustó y no me voy a complicar la vida.
si bien puedo decir que el libro fue aburrido y no pasó mucho, también estuvo soft y lindo 🫢
Maxim no me encaja en la vida de la Bravta y prácticamente no los vimos tocar, siento que quedó sin hacer nada aunque fue por lo de la mano. y siento que Talia fue un personaje plano que no conocimos mucho de ella, ni aficiones ni deseos ni nada. lo del kink de Dom/sub si quedé tiesa porque siento que en parte salió de la nada y en parte siento que a ellos no les salía, tal vez a otra pareja sí pero a ellos no. y como dije, fue aburrido porque no pasó mucho ni en la primera mitad ni en la segunda pero cuando lo veo de lejos sí pasaron cosas 🤣🤣🤣
en fin, vuelvo y lo digo, mi calificación del libro es más por cariño con la saga y que todo salió bien, solo por eso
yo quería que el siguiente libro fuera el de Sasha, mi loquito del centro, pero va a ser el de Mía, si soy sincera no me convence tanto esa pareja pero lo estaré leyendo
May 6, 2025
Perdón por esta calificación, pero de verdad no me gustó nada esta historia. La primer mitad del libro entré en ansiedad, desesperada y sufriendo por Max y Talia.
Inicio lentísimo con esa presentación de toda la serie de los Medvedev, después 50% de sufrir, capítulos de POV de los papás, que siento que estuvieron de más, y el resto fue súper aburrido con ese final feliz.
Además sentí que el hecho de que inicien la relación, y que ninguno de los dos tenían experiencias sexuales antes e inmediatamente les ponen un kink de dom y sub, no se, no me gustó para nada, y me gustan mucho los libros con este tipo de spicy, pero lo sentí muy forzado, quizás la autora trató de no hacer el libro tan aburrido.
Me quedé esperando que pasara algo más.
Espero que el libro de Mía sea más interesante, estoy segura que Darío va a ser su pareja, y va a estar interesante ese Age Ape, y como se va a negar mil veces Darío jajaja
Inicio lentísimo con esa presentación de toda la serie de los Medvedev, después 50% de sufrir, capítulos de POV de los papás, que siento que estuvieron de más, y el resto fue súper aburrido con ese final feliz.
Además sentí que el hecho de que inicien la relación, y que ninguno de los dos tenían experiencias sexuales antes e inmediatamente les ponen un kink de dom y sub, no se, no me gustó para nada, y me gustan mucho los libros con este tipo de spicy, pero lo sentí muy forzado, quizás la autora trató de no hacer el libro tan aburrido.
Me quedé esperando que pasara algo más.
Espero que el libro de Mía sea más interesante, estoy segura que Darío va a ser su pareja, y va a estar interesante ese Age Ape, y como se va a negar mil veces Darío jajaja
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 22, 2025
Born into Darkness begins in blood and chains, and from that darkness, it blossoms something tender, raw, and unforgettable.
The story of Maxim Melnikov and Talia Medvedev is beautifully melancholic. It’s a story of two souls whose hearts should’ve never touched but collide under the cruelest circumstances.
He calls her svetik moy. My light.
He sacrifices his piano hand to protect her.
Their love? It was born into darkness.
🥀 Dark romance
🎹 Dual virgins
🥀 Forced proximity
🎹 Kidnapping
🥀 Mafia romance
🎹 Touch-her-and-die
The story of Maxim Melnikov and Talia Medvedev is beautifully melancholic. It’s a story of two souls whose hearts should’ve never touched but collide under the cruelest circumstances.
He calls her svetik moy. My light.
He sacrifices his piano hand to protect her.
Their love? It was born into darkness.
🥀 Dark romance
🎹 Dual virgins
🥀 Forced proximity
🎹 Kidnapping
🥀 Mafia romance
🎹 Touch-her-and-die
May 8, 2025
What happens when a Medvedev Bratva and a Melnikov Bratva scion get together?
You have a story that keeps you glued page after page till the very satisfying end.
My heart just broke for the young couple for what they endured during their 2 months of captivity at the hands of the Amaya cartel.
Talia was a strong heroine and how she protected Max when he was tortured seriously brought tears to my eyes.
Max,Max was so devoted to Talia,and the ultimate sacrifice he made for her was just amazing.What those 2 endured during the 1st part of the story ,again,strength on both their parts.
I enjoyed the second part of their story.You saw them come full circle with their love.
It was great seeing the members of both Bratva,the families and their offsprings.Now grand babies are comming.
I love Sonja Grey's Bratva world.Her heros are always 100% committed to their women,and vice versa.
While this story may not resonate with every reader,this reader enjoyed this couple's journey to HEA.
Looking forward to other future couples romances.
This is an ARC review and all thoughts are my own and honest.
Many thanks to author Sonja Grey and Booksprout for providing an e copy.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
You have a story that keeps you glued page after page till the very satisfying end.
My heart just broke for the young couple for what they endured during their 2 months of captivity at the hands of the Amaya cartel.
Talia was a strong heroine and how she protected Max when he was tortured seriously brought tears to my eyes.
Max,Max was so devoted to Talia,and the ultimate sacrifice he made for her was just amazing.What those 2 endured during the 1st part of the story ,again,strength on both their parts.
I enjoyed the second part of their story.You saw them come full circle with their love.
It was great seeing the members of both Bratva,the families and their offsprings.Now grand babies are comming.
I love Sonja Grey's Bratva world.Her heros are always 100% committed to their women,and vice versa.
While this story may not resonate with every reader,this reader enjoyed this couple's journey to HEA.
Looking forward to other future couples romances.
This is an ARC review and all thoughts are my own and honest.
Many thanks to author Sonja Grey and Booksprout for providing an e copy.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 5, 2025
First time I’ve received an ARC so it’s also the first time I had to actually sit and write out a review so bear with me; I’m a reader not a writer.
I have been waiting impatiently for this book. It picks up right where the previous one ended with Max and Talia being held captive. They had an instant connection and over the weeks they are held captive we see their connection and love grow. Max is very protective of Talia, even, of course, taking her place to be harmed instead of her when given the choice by their captors.
The book is mostly from Max and Taila’s POV but we do get a few chapters from Max’s parents and Talia’s father so we can see what’s happening with the rescue efforts. Epilogue is from Bran’s POV.
There are A LOT of characters in this story. There were already a lot of Melnikov’s but this book crosses over with the Medvedev Bratva so even more people were added to the mix and so many names are similar too. It states the book can be read as a standalone but if I didn’t read books 1-4 recently, I would have been overwhelmed. Despite all that, we get to meet some interesting new characters.
Also, the main conflict ends pretty early in the book and the rest is the H and h adjusting to life and deciding how to be together, basically fluff. It’s great if you don’t like books that abruptly end without any time with the couple but not great if you need more plot to keep moving forward.
I will say that I am loving this legacy series and can’t wait for the next one.
No cheating
No OW/OM
Dual V
I have been waiting impatiently for this book. It picks up right where the previous one ended with Max and Talia being held captive. They had an instant connection and over the weeks they are held captive we see their connection and love grow. Max is very protective of Talia, even, of course, taking her place to be harmed instead of her when given the choice by their captors.
The book is mostly from Max and Taila’s POV but we do get a few chapters from Max’s parents and Talia’s father so we can see what’s happening with the rescue efforts. Epilogue is from Bran’s POV.
There are A LOT of characters in this story. There were already a lot of Melnikov’s but this book crosses over with the Medvedev Bratva so even more people were added to the mix and so many names are similar too. It states the book can be read as a standalone but if I didn’t read books 1-4 recently, I would have been overwhelmed. Despite all that, we get to meet some interesting new characters.
Also, the main conflict ends pretty early in the book and the rest is the H and h adjusting to life and deciding how to be together, basically fluff. It’s great if you don’t like books that abruptly end without any time with the couple but not great if you need more plot to keep moving forward.
I will say that I am loving this legacy series and can’t wait for the next one.
No cheating
No OW/OM
Dual V
June 4, 2025
Rating: ♾️⭐️
Spice: 2🌶️
Would Recommend!
My Review:
✨ Infinite Stars ✨ — My Heart Belongs to the Sonja-verse!
If I could have one superpower, it would be to read minds — specifically, Sonja's mind because WHAT. A. GENIUS. I honestly can't say enough about how much I freaking love her work and her characters. And if I had another superpower? I’d make all her fictional characters real because I need to be part of the Melnikov-Medvedev chaos! 😭💕
The first 50% of this book? Pure emotional whiplash. I didn’t even know I could feel that many things at once. 😅 I was crying, laughing, panicking, and then some. But the payoff? The second half made it all SO worth it.
Max and Talia have officially taken up permanent residence in my brain, and I am not complaining. The banter between their families had me smiling like an idiot, and now I’m daydreaming about all the potential crossovers and future books (Bran, I see you 👀). The Sonja-verse is truly elite.
No spoilers here because you need to feel it all for yourself, but if you're already a fan of Sonja — prepare to be obsessed. And if you're not yet? Well... welcome to your new addiction. 😌
Tropes:
Mafia Romance
Captivity
Crossover
v-h/v-H
Spice: 2🌶️
Would Recommend!
My Review:
✨ Infinite Stars ✨ — My Heart Belongs to the Sonja-verse!
If I could have one superpower, it would be to read minds — specifically, Sonja's mind because WHAT. A. GENIUS. I honestly can't say enough about how much I freaking love her work and her characters. And if I had another superpower? I’d make all her fictional characters real because I need to be part of the Melnikov-Medvedev chaos! 😭💕
The first 50% of this book? Pure emotional whiplash. I didn’t even know I could feel that many things at once. 😅 I was crying, laughing, panicking, and then some. But the payoff? The second half made it all SO worth it.
Max and Talia have officially taken up permanent residence in my brain, and I am not complaining. The banter between their families had me smiling like an idiot, and now I’m daydreaming about all the potential crossovers and future books (Bran, I see you 👀). The Sonja-verse is truly elite.
No spoilers here because you need to feel it all for yourself, but if you're already a fan of Sonja — prepare to be obsessed. And if you're not yet? Well... welcome to your new addiction. 😌
Tropes:
Mafia Romance
Captivity
Crossover
v-h/v-H
May 17, 2025
3.5⭐️
La primera parte del libro me gustó mucho. tuvo toda la angustia que adoro leer, y la participación de los padres narrando me recordó porqué amo a estas familias.
La segunda parte del libro se me hizo monótona. Siento que tranquilamente podría haber terminado antes, y por ahí hubo mucho relleno innecesario, pero de igual manera lo disfruté .
Las escenas extras de Mateo ?? me está diciendo que va a tener un libro o qué onda?
Me muero por leer a Bran; por un momento pensé en él con Nikki así que veremos que tal resulta al final sus historias, y de verdad que shippeo a Dima con Allie.
Por otra parte, al fin tendremos el libro de Mia!! Me encanta la dinámica que tiene con Dario y realmente finjo demencia con el Age gap así que más vale que la historia no resulte sosa. Aunque el libro que más anhelo es el de Sasha!
La primera parte del libro me gustó mucho. tuvo toda la angustia que adoro leer, y la participación de los padres narrando me recordó porqué amo a estas familias.
La segunda parte del libro se me hizo monótona. Siento que tranquilamente podría haber terminado antes, y por ahí hubo mucho relleno innecesario, pero de igual manera lo disfruté .
Las escenas extras de Mateo ?? me está diciendo que va a tener un libro o qué onda?
Me muero por leer a Bran; por un momento pensé en él con Nikki así que veremos que tal resulta al final sus historias, y de verdad que shippeo a Dima con Allie.
Por otra parte, al fin tendremos el libro de Mia!! Me encanta la dinámica que tiene con Dario y realmente finjo demencia con el Age gap así que más vale que la historia no resulte sosa. Aunque el libro que más anhelo es el de Sasha!
August 2, 2025
I have just finished the book. Sonia is an incredible author. Loved this book. Max and talias story is fantastic. I loved every minute of it. Their love started dramatically and just grew from there. I am also loving the crossover between bratvas.
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.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 4, 2025
Arc review🥰😭
Amando a los melkinovs por siempre
Talia y Max son demasiado bellos y sufrí muchísimo al principio (lloré demasiado con Max).
Este crossover me encantó y amo demasiado a Bran😭
Also, siento que Sonja está sacando unas historias tan increíbles que a veces me deja loca con toda la imaginación que tiene y los detalles que hacen únicos a cada uno de los personajes
Amando a los melkinovs por siempre
Talia y Max son demasiado bellos y sufrí muchísimo al principio (lloré demasiado con Max).
Este crossover me encantó y amo demasiado a Bran😭
Also, siento que Sonja está sacando unas historias tan increíbles que a veces me deja loca con toda la imaginación que tiene y los detalles que hacen únicos a cada uno de los personajes
May 14, 2025
2.5 ⭐️
This one started strong with the first half full of tension and drama and I was so into it. But then came all the POVs … and I mean all of them. I found myself skimming more than I’d like to admit which is never a great sign.
The second half shifted into slow burn romance mode after the rescue, and normally I’d eat that up, but for some reason I just didn’t click with it. The connection wasn’t there for me, and by the end I felt a bit flat. Not a bad book, just not quite the vibe I hoped for after such a strong start.
This one started strong with the first half full of tension and drama and I was so into it. But then came all the POVs … and I mean all of them. I found myself skimming more than I’d like to admit which is never a great sign.
The second half shifted into slow burn romance mode after the rescue, and normally I’d eat that up, but for some reason I just didn’t click with it. The connection wasn’t there for me, and by the end I felt a bit flat. Not a bad book, just not quite the vibe I hoped for after such a strong start.
July 20, 2025
Sonja Grey has truly outdone herself once again! The captivating tales of the second generation of the Melnikov family are nothing short of extraordinary. Maxim and Talia's journey unfolds with an enchanting blend of romance, intrigue, and character development that pulls readers in from the very first page. Their story weaves together rich emotions and thrilling plot twists, making it a must-read for anyone who loves immersive storytelling.
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.
May 4, 2025
Our girl has done it again. I love bringing the two families together! It was so fun! Now for this book, so good I love them
Both! The MMC and FMC were the best! I love the family! I can’t wait for Sasha’s book!!. 📖 oh and Bran dang he might be a fav
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Both! The MMC and FMC were the best! I love the family! I can’t wait for Sasha’s book!!. 📖 oh and Bran dang he might be a fav
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 13, 2025
OMG 😭🖤 where do I even START?! “Born Into Darkness” by Sonja Grey was everything I hoped for… and then threw me off a cliff emotionally, stomped on my heart, and glued it back together with Russian endearments and piano music 🎹🔥
First off this book? PURE CHAOS AND I LOVED EVERY SECOND. We’re thrown straight into the action with Max and Talia being kidnapped and chained to a wall (ah yes, the classic romantic setup 💀). Honestly, if you told me I’d be swooning over two people bonding through trauma and torture, I would’ve said “girl, no”… and yet here I am, heart in pieces, sobbing and giggling at 3 AM 😭
Maxim Melnikov. THEE man. The brooding, quiet musical genius who somehow manages to be both a tortured soul and a lethal menace. His devotion to Talia? OUT OF THIS WORLD. This man would literally give up his life (and his hands 😭🎹) for her without hesitation. When I tell you I SCREAMED. He’s like, “Take my piano skills, just don’t touch my girl”, and I’m over here clutching my Kindle whispering, “Sir… please… I’m emotional.” 🫠❤️🔥
And Talia?! My queen 👑 She’s strong, resilient, and refuses to let her circumstances define her. The way she stands up for herself and matches Max’s intensity… I was like, “YES BESTIE, SURVIVE, THRIVE, SLAY!” 💅🏽🔥 The chemistry between them was so insane that even the cartel walls were probably blushing. Their love story blooms in literal darkness — and somehow, it still manages to shine so brightly. “Svetik Moy” indeed 😭💫 (I’m never recovering from that nickname btw. Ever.)
Also, can we talk about the fact that Sonja somehow makes two mafia families teaming up for a rescue mission feel like the Avengers Assemble moment of the Bratva world?! 💣😂 The Melnikovs and the Medvedevs working together had me CACKLING — chaos, violence, banter, and probably way too much ice cream cake 🍒🎂 (Vitaly and Valeri are 100% the unhinged duo we didn’t know we needed).
Now, about the pacing the first half had my heart doing parkour. It’s gritty, dark, and full of those “we might die but at least we’re in love” moments 😭 The second half slows down into the emotional recovery, healing, and soft domestic fluff that made me want to move into their world and bake cookies for everyone (except the bad guys… they can choke). The lack of a third-act breakup?! THANK YOU, SONJA 🙌🏽 I’m tired of the “we just miscommunicated” trope. Here, it’s all loyalty, devotion, and “I’d die before I let you go.” chef’s kiss 💋
AND THE FAMILY CAMEOS. My beloved chaotic mafia family trees. Every page had a new cousin, uncle, brother, or father popping up, and I was like, “Wait… who’s that again?” 🤯😂 Thankfully, the family tree at the start of the book was a lifesaver. I definitely had to refer back to it a few times, and honestly, bless Sonja for including it because I would’ve been so lost without it! 🫶📖 Someone needs to sell an official Bratva Family Tree Poster ASAP because these people multiply faster than rabbits. 🐇
Also, the humour sprinkled throughout? HILARIOUS. Between the ice cream cake incident 🍨 and the savage sibling banter, I was crying laughing one minute and ugly sobbing the next. Sonja really said: “I’m going to ruin you emotionally AND make you laugh about it.” Mission accomplished, queen 👑💀
And can we just acknowledge that bonus piano scene?! 🫣😭🔥 I don’t even have the words. My jaw dropped, my soul ascended, and I briefly saw heaven.
By the end, I was a sobbing, giggling, emotionally drained puddle of love. 🫠 Sonja Grey has once again proven that no one, and I mean NO ONE, writes morally gray, emotionally obsessed men and strong, resilient women quite like she does. The way she builds her universe (the Sonja-verse if you will) makes me want to live there minus the kidnapping, gunfights, and torture part 😂
✨Final Thoughts✨
Max: Musical cinnamon roll of doom 🎹💀❤️
Talia: Sunshine wrapped in steel ☀️⚔️
Spice: illegal in several countries 🥵
Emotions: everywhere 😭
Family drama: 10/10 would attend again 😂
Rating: 5/5 Svetik Moy’s 🌟
I laughed. I cried. I questioned my sanity. And I’d do it all over again. Sonja, if you’re reading this, I am BEGGING for Sasha’s book next 😭 because I already know that man is going to destroy me in the best way possible.
✨Ultimate Stars✨ one of my all-time favourite series!! 🌟💀❤️ Sonja Grey has me absolutely feral for these Bratva men and their women 😭🔥 Every book hits harder than the last, and Born Into Darkness just cemented this series as pure perfection. I’ll be rereading it forever!! 🖤📖
Now excuse me while I go reread my favourite parts and whisper “Svetik Moy” into the void like a lunatic. 💀💞
First off this book? PURE CHAOS AND I LOVED EVERY SECOND. We’re thrown straight into the action with Max and Talia being kidnapped and chained to a wall (ah yes, the classic romantic setup 💀). Honestly, if you told me I’d be swooning over two people bonding through trauma and torture, I would’ve said “girl, no”… and yet here I am, heart in pieces, sobbing and giggling at 3 AM 😭
Maxim Melnikov. THEE man. The brooding, quiet musical genius who somehow manages to be both a tortured soul and a lethal menace. His devotion to Talia? OUT OF THIS WORLD. This man would literally give up his life (and his hands 😭🎹) for her without hesitation. When I tell you I SCREAMED. He’s like, “Take my piano skills, just don’t touch my girl”, and I’m over here clutching my Kindle whispering, “Sir… please… I’m emotional.” 🫠❤️🔥
And Talia?! My queen 👑 She’s strong, resilient, and refuses to let her circumstances define her. The way she stands up for herself and matches Max’s intensity… I was like, “YES BESTIE, SURVIVE, THRIVE, SLAY!” 💅🏽🔥 The chemistry between them was so insane that even the cartel walls were probably blushing. Their love story blooms in literal darkness — and somehow, it still manages to shine so brightly. “Svetik Moy” indeed 😭💫 (I’m never recovering from that nickname btw. Ever.)
Also, can we talk about the fact that Sonja somehow makes two mafia families teaming up for a rescue mission feel like the Avengers Assemble moment of the Bratva world?! 💣😂 The Melnikovs and the Medvedevs working together had me CACKLING — chaos, violence, banter, and probably way too much ice cream cake 🍒🎂 (Vitaly and Valeri are 100% the unhinged duo we didn’t know we needed).
Now, about the pacing the first half had my heart doing parkour. It’s gritty, dark, and full of those “we might die but at least we’re in love” moments 😭 The second half slows down into the emotional recovery, healing, and soft domestic fluff that made me want to move into their world and bake cookies for everyone (except the bad guys… they can choke). The lack of a third-act breakup?! THANK YOU, SONJA 🙌🏽 I’m tired of the “we just miscommunicated” trope. Here, it’s all loyalty, devotion, and “I’d die before I let you go.” chef’s kiss 💋
AND THE FAMILY CAMEOS. My beloved chaotic mafia family trees. Every page had a new cousin, uncle, brother, or father popping up, and I was like, “Wait… who’s that again?” 🤯😂 Thankfully, the family tree at the start of the book was a lifesaver. I definitely had to refer back to it a few times, and honestly, bless Sonja for including it because I would’ve been so lost without it! 🫶📖 Someone needs to sell an official Bratva Family Tree Poster ASAP because these people multiply faster than rabbits. 🐇
Also, the humour sprinkled throughout? HILARIOUS. Between the ice cream cake incident 🍨 and the savage sibling banter, I was crying laughing one minute and ugly sobbing the next. Sonja really said: “I’m going to ruin you emotionally AND make you laugh about it.” Mission accomplished, queen 👑💀
And can we just acknowledge that bonus piano scene?! 🫣😭🔥 I don’t even have the words. My jaw dropped, my soul ascended, and I briefly saw heaven.
By the end, I was a sobbing, giggling, emotionally drained puddle of love. 🫠 Sonja Grey has once again proven that no one, and I mean NO ONE, writes morally gray, emotionally obsessed men and strong, resilient women quite like she does. The way she builds her universe (the Sonja-verse if you will) makes me want to live there minus the kidnapping, gunfights, and torture part 😂
✨Final Thoughts✨
Max: Musical cinnamon roll of doom 🎹💀❤️
Talia: Sunshine wrapped in steel ☀️⚔️
Spice: illegal in several countries 🥵
Emotions: everywhere 😭
Family drama: 10/10 would attend again 😂
Rating: 5/5 Svetik Moy’s 🌟
I laughed. I cried. I questioned my sanity. And I’d do it all over again. Sonja, if you’re reading this, I am BEGGING for Sasha’s book next 😭 because I already know that man is going to destroy me in the best way possible.
✨Ultimate Stars✨ one of my all-time favourite series!! 🌟💀❤️ Sonja Grey has me absolutely feral for these Bratva men and their women 😭🔥 Every book hits harder than the last, and Born Into Darkness just cemented this series as pure perfection. I’ll be rereading it forever!! 🖤📖
Now excuse me while I go reread my favourite parts and whisper “Svetik Moy” into the void like a lunatic. 💀💞
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 6, 2025
It pains me so much to give this book 3 stars since I love this author but this book was not it. It was definitely my least favorite in the series.
I think a big part of blame lies in the fact that this is a crossover, second generation of two different series. Series where there’s a million aunts, uncles and cousins that need to be introduced. Which we were very much introduced to during the 50 minute prologue of this book. Oh man it was so overwhelming basically being thrown into the deep end of meeting Talia’s family. Sure we met some of them in another series but in this one there’s so many more we have to meet and it was exhausting!!! Add in the fact that at least 5 of these guys have a name starting with the letter V and it makes it even more chaotic! I had to try and remember who was who because all their names were so similar. Also two FMCs in this series share the same name!! And two of the family members share the same name (Alina). Way to make it even more confusing!!
We also didn’t need four long ass, back to back chapters of POVs from the parents. I especially didn’t need a sex scene between Max’s parents because correct me if I’m wrong but THE BOOK WASN’T ABOUT THEM!!! I found it so tactless to have them give us a sex scene while their son was being held captive and tortured. This could be just me but if my SON was kidnapped and being held and beaten there is no way in hell I could even think of wanting to have sex!! It was mind boggling to me that their POV was even used for that! Not to mention a few other couples just had to go have sex before they went and rescued their family member from the freaking cartel!! Not everything has to be about sex, we get it..no one in this family can keep their hands off each other. It doesn’t need to be beaten into us!!!
My favorite part of this book was when Max and Talia were in captivity. Because it was just them, taking care of each other, getting to know one another and falling in love. It was sweet to watch and I actually really adore them both. But then once they get rescued the entire rest of the book was just family interactions. There was no plot or anything interesting going on. And they were rescued before half the book was over!! So a majority was just a bunch of nonsense. This book felt like filler to me. It felt like it was just used as a gateway to introduce new characters for another series that will be after this one. Max and Talia didn’t even get the story they deserved!
Also just because Max says he likes to control things doesn’t automatically make him a Dom. Adding in the Dom/sub trope felt like it was trying to be hot but it wasn’t. He just decided to call them that because he wanted to control her orgasms but it was so poorly done. I can’t even tell you how many times Max mentioned how he was going to punish Talia and how he couldn’t wait to spank her and yet..there was no sight of any of that in the book at all. You can’t introduce something and then not execute it. And please, please, please don’t have Max go down on Talia and then kiss his little nephew the minute he is done. I can’t tell you how bad that rubbed me the wrong way. Like bro go wash your mouth out before you put it on some unsuspecting baby!!!
So as you can see this was a very passionate review. Probably because I usually love this authors books and I didn’t like this one. Made me a little upset lol.
Anyway of course I’m going to read the rest of the series and the next one because while there are aspects of the book I didn’t like Ms. Grey is a safety girl which I love and I appreciate all of these dual virgins and non manwhores she giving us with this series.
NO CHEATING
NO OP DRAMA (max gets flirted with but shuts it down)
NO THIRD ACT BREAK UP
DUAL VIRGINS
ATTEMPTED SA ON FMC
TORTURE ON MMC
MURDER
HEA (married and pregnant)
I think a big part of blame lies in the fact that this is a crossover, second generation of two different series. Series where there’s a million aunts, uncles and cousins that need to be introduced. Which we were very much introduced to during the 50 minute prologue of this book. Oh man it was so overwhelming basically being thrown into the deep end of meeting Talia’s family. Sure we met some of them in another series but in this one there’s so many more we have to meet and it was exhausting!!! Add in the fact that at least 5 of these guys have a name starting with the letter V and it makes it even more chaotic! I had to try and remember who was who because all their names were so similar. Also two FMCs in this series share the same name!! And two of the family members share the same name (Alina). Way to make it even more confusing!!
We also didn’t need four long ass, back to back chapters of POVs from the parents. I especially didn’t need a sex scene between Max’s parents because correct me if I’m wrong but THE BOOK WASN’T ABOUT THEM!!! I found it so tactless to have them give us a sex scene while their son was being held captive and tortured. This could be just me but if my SON was kidnapped and being held and beaten there is no way in hell I could even think of wanting to have sex!! It was mind boggling to me that their POV was even used for that! Not to mention a few other couples just had to go have sex before they went and rescued their family member from the freaking cartel!! Not everything has to be about sex, we get it..no one in this family can keep their hands off each other. It doesn’t need to be beaten into us!!!
My favorite part of this book was when Max and Talia were in captivity. Because it was just them, taking care of each other, getting to know one another and falling in love. It was sweet to watch and I actually really adore them both. But then once they get rescued the entire rest of the book was just family interactions. There was no plot or anything interesting going on. And they were rescued before half the book was over!! So a majority was just a bunch of nonsense. This book felt like filler to me. It felt like it was just used as a gateway to introduce new characters for another series that will be after this one. Max and Talia didn’t even get the story they deserved!
Also just because Max says he likes to control things doesn’t automatically make him a Dom. Adding in the Dom/sub trope felt like it was trying to be hot but it wasn’t. He just decided to call them that because he wanted to control her orgasms but it was so poorly done. I can’t even tell you how many times Max mentioned how he was going to punish Talia and how he couldn’t wait to spank her and yet..there was no sight of any of that in the book at all. You can’t introduce something and then not execute it. And please, please, please don’t have Max go down on Talia and then kiss his little nephew the minute he is done. I can’t tell you how bad that rubbed me the wrong way. Like bro go wash your mouth out before you put it on some unsuspecting baby!!!
So as you can see this was a very passionate review. Probably because I usually love this authors books and I didn’t like this one. Made me a little upset lol.
Anyway of course I’m going to read the rest of the series and the next one because while there are aspects of the book I didn’t like Ms. Grey is a safety girl which I love and I appreciate all of these dual virgins and non manwhores she giving us with this series.
NO CHEATING
NO OP DRAMA (max gets flirted with but shuts it down)
NO THIRD ACT BREAK UP
DUAL VIRGINS
ATTEMPTED SA ON FMC
TORTURE ON MMC
MURDER
HEA (married and pregnant)
May 4, 2025
Received an ARC copy of this book via Booksprout but this review is completely my own thoughts and opinions! May include spoilers and/or referral to characters from different series.
Rating: 5 stars
Spice: 🌶️ 🌶️🌶️ (slow burn-ish, not ‘full-on’ until 82%)
Wow, just wow! After leaving us on a cliffhanger in Val’s book I have more than ready to dive into Max and Talia’s book so thank goodness Sonja didn’t leave us waiting to long for this book!
Max and Talia… these two are amazing, no really! Their characters are interesting with and without each other, something that I don’t find with a lot of books now so this was definitely something I loved - and a Melnikov/Medvedev crossover… didn’t know I needed this but what a turnout it became! This couple are amazing, the way they both helped each other through the tough times and a love grown in darkness (forgive the pun). It was just a sweet love to read about and I’m so grateful I got to read this ahead of release.
The snippets we got from other second generation characters were tastefully included, I didn’t feel like it was more about setting up for there storylines or another epilogue. Rather, they have left me dying to get my hands on more of their stories, and I’m so excited for Mia’s book which I believe is next in this series! That’s another thing I love about Sonja’s books in general, setting up for the next books without taking away from the main character’s story.
Overall, this is another great addition to the ‘Devil’s will Rise’ series, Max and Talia were everything I hoped they would be and more, I would definitely recommend reading their story (but I would go back and read both the Medvedev and Melnikov series, and other second generation books beforehand just so you know who’s who and don’t get stuck trying to work out who a character is which might potentially distract from Max and Talia’s story!)
Rating: 5 stars
Spice: 🌶️ 🌶️🌶️ (slow burn-ish, not ‘full-on’ until 82%)
Wow, just wow! After leaving us on a cliffhanger in Val’s book I have more than ready to dive into Max and Talia’s book so thank goodness Sonja didn’t leave us waiting to long for this book!
Max and Talia… these two are amazing, no really! Their characters are interesting with and without each other, something that I don’t find with a lot of books now so this was definitely something I loved - and a Melnikov/Medvedev crossover… didn’t know I needed this but what a turnout it became! This couple are amazing, the way they both helped each other through the tough times and a love grown in darkness (forgive the pun). It was just a sweet love to read about and I’m so grateful I got to read this ahead of release.
The snippets we got from other second generation characters were tastefully included, I didn’t feel like it was more about setting up for there storylines or another epilogue. Rather, they have left me dying to get my hands on more of their stories, and I’m so excited for Mia’s book which I believe is next in this series! That’s another thing I love about Sonja’s books in general, setting up for the next books without taking away from the main character’s story.
Overall, this is another great addition to the ‘Devil’s will Rise’ series, Max and Talia were everything I hoped they would be and more, I would definitely recommend reading their story (but I would go back and read both the Medvedev and Melnikov series, and other second generation books beforehand just so you know who’s who and don’t get stuck trying to work out who a character is which might potentially distract from Max and Talia’s story!)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 30, 2025
“I fell in love with you in the dark, Talia, and I still love you now that we’re in the light.”
I don't think anything could have prepared me for the emotional rollercoaster that was Max and Talia's book. The two of them have fast become one of my favourite couples in the Melnikov Legacy series.
This book followed on from Born Into Temptation and wove Talia's story into it beautifully. I adored everything about this book; their fight to survive, the love that grew between them, and of course, the chance to catch up with the rest of the Melnikovs. This book broke me apart and put me back together again in the best possible way, I had both tears and laughter while reading this, which was exactly what I had hoped for going into it. The humour was great, the romance was beautiful, and, of course, the spice was on point.
This was one of my favourite books of 2025 so far, and I'll be eagerly awaiting the next in the series!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I don't think anything could have prepared me for the emotional rollercoaster that was Max and Talia's book. The two of them have fast become one of my favourite couples in the Melnikov Legacy series.
This book followed on from Born Into Temptation and wove Talia's story into it beautifully. I adored everything about this book; their fight to survive, the love that grew between them, and of course, the chance to catch up with the rest of the Melnikovs. This book broke me apart and put me back together again in the best possible way, I had both tears and laughter while reading this, which was exactly what I had hoped for going into it. The humour was great, the romance was beautiful, and, of course, the spice was on point.
This was one of my favourite books of 2025 so far, and I'll be eagerly awaiting the next in the series!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 4, 2025
I loved that Max and Talia were together and they bonded while being in a horrible place. I just felt that it dragged for a bit, I thought maybe they could have been rescued sooner. They did seem to rush things and got married so soon after but hey I guess that when you know you know. I loved their chemistry though! One more thing I have to screenshot the family trees because there are just so many characters lol I lose track of everyone.
I can not wait for Mia’s book next.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I can not wait for Mia’s book next.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 4, 2025
Max and Talia were kidnapped and kept in captivity for 2 months, where they survive together. This part of the book was nerve wrecking and heartbreaking what they went through. Then they get rescued and the rest is about their romance and a lot of sexy times.
It was great that the author included the two family trees so you don’t get as lost with so many characters.
Details:
- DV!!
- Same age (21yo).
- No OW drama.
- Medvedev and Melnikov Bratvas crossover.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
It was great that the author included the two family trees so you don’t get as lost with so many characters.
Details:
- DV!!
- Same age (21yo).
- No OW drama.
- Medvedev and Melnikov Bratvas crossover.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 30, 2025
Ahhh I loved this book so much! I have always found it hard to choose my favorite Sonja male character because I love them all but I think Max just took the title! I love how protective he was a Talia and did what he had to just so she is safe. Talia was also a great character I loved how protective and caring of Max she was back. I also loved the family dynamics and how Sonja is able to make a loving head over heals for his girl and family man into a strong dangerous Alpha I find that this is hard for a lot of authors to do in my opinion. I would highly recommend this book and any other Sonja book.
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.
May 2, 2025
I must say reading these books is like receiving a Christmas card with the family update. Love, love, love. This one was a tough start and I had to put it down a few times. I did not like the torture in the beginning. Overall the book felt a little forced to find a story line. The 1st generation books had a common theme - finding Alina. Perhaps taking over the Bratva from their Father’s could be a common theme for this generation. Hopefully, the next book will not feel as forced. I still look forward to reading each book because Sonja breathes life into her characters. The readers bond with her creations which is why we keep coming back for the next update on the family.
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.
May 10, 2025
i will love you if you make the 10 book series of the legacy
April 28, 2025
So when I started reading it, and I realized that my two favorite bratvas were gonna get together I freaking screamed and scared the shit out of my husband that being sad I loved this book. I loved the characters I loved the development. I love the happily ever after I loved hearing from my old favorite characters and I’m so excited to hear about Sasha‘s book which I hope we’re getting soon.
Because there’s nothing I love more than an unhinged psychopath who’s obsessed with his love interest.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Because there’s nothing I love more than an unhinged psychopath who’s obsessed with his love interest.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 29, 2025
I just finished reading the book and it was so amazing! I devoured it. There really wasn't a single moment where I found it boring or tedious to read. I had to sleep out of necessity, but I just wanted to keep reading this work of art! The story unfolded so well, each page was better than the last. Max and Talia are a beautiful couple, and I cried so much with them, but in a good way. I hope to see them in the next books! ❤️🩹🥹
Sonja always surpasses herself with each book! 5/5 ⭐️
PS: I think Sasha and Sitka would make a great couple! I'm obsessed with them! 🫣
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Sonja always surpasses herself with each book! 5/5 ⭐️
PS: I think Sasha and Sitka would make a great couple! I'm obsessed with them! 🫣
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 29, 2025
ARC Review!!
All I can say is that Sonja did an amazing job….again! Maxim and Talia’s story was beautiful. Everything unfolded beautifully, even bringing the Medvedev Bratva family into this story. Seeing how much Max and Talia care and protect each other throughout the book, perfection. I recommend reading the all the books in order including the “Medvedev Bratva” series. It will make more sense with all the fun, wild characters, but also these books won’t let you down. Cannot wait for the next book!
Love at first sight!
MMC &FMC virgins
Possessive MMC
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
All I can say is that Sonja did an amazing job….again! Maxim and Talia’s story was beautiful. Everything unfolded beautifully, even bringing the Medvedev Bratva family into this story. Seeing how much Max and Talia care and protect each other throughout the book, perfection. I recommend reading the all the books in order including the “Medvedev Bratva” series. It will make more sense with all the fun, wild characters, but also these books won’t let you down. Cannot wait for the next book!
Love at first sight!
MMC &FMC virgins
Possessive MMC
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
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