What do you think?
Rate this book
Vendetta Vows
He's the dangerous heir of Los Angeles' most powerful crime family.
And in just a few more days, he'll be my husband.
I've spent the past seven years trying to hide myself from a past that won't let me go.
Until Ruslan Dragunov catches me at the wrong party with something I'm not supposed to have.
Protective. Brooding. Devastatingly handsome.
He's everything I should stay away from.
A sinful perfection found only in my darkest fantasies.
He takes me away from the party to his private club.
Where I can live out a fantasy I've only dared to imagine for seven years.
Where he teaches me how good I can feel with every searing touch.
And reminds me how alive I can be with every bruising kiss.
But bratva bosses and girls hiding from their past aren't supposed to mix for a good reason.
Soon, his reality and my dark past crash together in the worst way possible.
And I'm forced to run before it's too late.
That's exactly when Ruslan Dragunov catches me for a second time.
This time, he tells me that I don't have to run anymore.
Not if I come with him.
Not if I become his wife.
---
Vendetta Vows is Book 1 of the Dragunov Bratva duet. This is NOT a standalone.
WARNING: This book contains scenes and topics that may be disturbing to some readers.
And in just a few more days, he'll be my husband.
I've spent the past seven years trying to hide myself from a past that won't let me go.
Until Ruslan Dragunov catches me at the wrong party with something I'm not supposed to have.
Protective. Brooding. Devastatingly handsome.
He's everything I should stay away from.
A sinful perfection found only in my darkest fantasies.
He takes me away from the party to his private club.
Where I can live out a fantasy I've only dared to imagine for seven years.
Where he teaches me how good I can feel with every searing touch.
And reminds me how alive I can be with every bruising kiss.
But bratva bosses and girls hiding from their past aren't supposed to mix for a good reason.
Soon, his reality and my dark past crash together in the worst way possible.
And I'm forced to run before it's too late.
That's exactly when Ruslan Dragunov catches me for a second time.
This time, he tells me that I don't have to run anymore.
Not if I come with him.
Not if I become his wife.
---
Vendetta Vows is Book 1 of the Dragunov Bratva duet. This is NOT a standalone.
WARNING: This book contains scenes and topics that may be disturbing to some readers.
414 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 1, 2025
348 people are currently reading
150 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
Read
November 27, 2025It wasn’t bad at all, I just got bored... 🤷🏻♀️
Dnf @ 73%
Dnf @ 73%
May 2, 2025
When Aurora Castellano, on the run from a hidden and dark past, crosses paths with a man who seems like the living embodiment of every Bratva romance stereotype, she expects trouble. But as life imitates art, she discovers that her mysterious stranger, Ruslan Dragunov, defies every Pakhan cliché, offering her not danger, but protection and love. As their relationship turns into a partnership, they find themselves falling deeper and deeper.
“We breathed each other’s air, suspended in this fragile moment of recognition. Two broken people finding something whole in each other’s damage.”
WOW. A Bratva romance where they have actual level headed and transparent conversations? Where they squash all secrets and misunderstandings instead of letting them tear them apart? Where have you been all my life? It’s like you go in thinking that it’s a classic Bratva romance duet but honestly, this one threw me off completely with how refreshing and OPEN they were. I’m literally mind blown and my standard has now become THIS relationship for mafia romances.
Aurora and Ruslan were perfection, period. She was so mature, not a typical damsel in distress, but also vulnerable and just trying to protect herself but in a calm and collected way. She isn’t judgy, isn’t irrational, or even overly emotional. And so of course Ruslan was exactly who she needed to heal and find herself. And speaking of Ruslan, this man is a STANDARD. He falls first, head over heels, but his Pakhan bravado is basically non existent as he’s so caring, considerate and soft. There’s zero toxic masculinity in this man, it’s like this book took a look at the stereotypes of a Bratva man and challenged them, which is brilliant in it’s own right. And the cupcakes, oh the cupcakes (THE CUPCAKES!) made me cry cause Ruslan was so sweet and had me swooning.
“You were made for me.” he growls, thrusting deeper. “And I was made for you.”
And can we take a moment to give a special shoutout to the spice in this? Whew, I normally don’t care about intimate scenes so much, especially with mafia romances being filled with them but the scenes in this? PERFECTION. I loved Ruslan’s dirty talk but Aurora? Girly? Your mouth was on fire. I was fanning myself, we stan a vocal queen. It was so hot and Aurora’s confidence with Ruslan was off the hook and just shows that he made her feel so safe and comfortable that it brought out her real side. I felt so spoiled reading this because the feelings of warm fuzzies stayed with me throughout. Why can’t more books in the mafia genre be like this?
I was so pleasantly surprised with this book. Brook Wilder really brought her A game this time around and I feel like it’s literally her best work yet. The best way I can describe the vibe of this one was like a candle lit on a rainy night, it was such a comforting read despite being a mafia romance. Completely blew me and my expectations away and I’m itching to start the final book in this duet.
“We breathed each other’s air, suspended in this fragile moment of recognition. Two broken people finding something whole in each other’s damage.”
WOW. A Bratva romance where they have actual level headed and transparent conversations? Where they squash all secrets and misunderstandings instead of letting them tear them apart? Where have you been all my life? It’s like you go in thinking that it’s a classic Bratva romance duet but honestly, this one threw me off completely with how refreshing and OPEN they were. I’m literally mind blown and my standard has now become THIS relationship for mafia romances.
Aurora and Ruslan were perfection, period. She was so mature, not a typical damsel in distress, but also vulnerable and just trying to protect herself but in a calm and collected way. She isn’t judgy, isn’t irrational, or even overly emotional. And so of course Ruslan was exactly who she needed to heal and find herself. And speaking of Ruslan, this man is a STANDARD. He falls first, head over heels, but his Pakhan bravado is basically non existent as he’s so caring, considerate and soft. There’s zero toxic masculinity in this man, it’s like this book took a look at the stereotypes of a Bratva man and challenged them, which is brilliant in it’s own right. And the cupcakes, oh the cupcakes (THE CUPCAKES!) made me cry cause Ruslan was so sweet and had me swooning.
“You were made for me.” he growls, thrusting deeper. “And I was made for you.”
And can we take a moment to give a special shoutout to the spice in this? Whew, I normally don’t care about intimate scenes so much, especially with mafia romances being filled with them but the scenes in this? PERFECTION. I loved Ruslan’s dirty talk but Aurora? Girly? Your mouth was on fire. I was fanning myself, we stan a vocal queen. It was so hot and Aurora’s confidence with Ruslan was off the hook and just shows that he made her feel so safe and comfortable that it brought out her real side. I felt so spoiled reading this because the feelings of warm fuzzies stayed with me throughout. Why can’t more books in the mafia genre be like this?
I was so pleasantly surprised with this book. Brook Wilder really brought her A game this time around and I feel like it’s literally her best work yet. The best way I can describe the vibe of this one was like a candle lit on a rainy night, it was such a comforting read despite being a mafia romance. Completely blew me and my expectations away and I’m itching to start the final book in this duet.
May 3, 2025
An alluring start for Aurora and Ruslan. I was hooked right from the start and I thoroughly enjoyed this story!! I really liked the premise of this one because it's a little different than your usual Bratva romance. Ruslan isn't your typical Pakhan and Aurora is wrapped up in so many secrets that I couldn't tear my mind away from the book.
Ruslan might be ruthless and dangerous but he sure is not shy about showing Aurora adoration and patience. I loved that Ruslan wasn't ashamed of his feelings. He was willing to be emotional with Aurora and not hide who he is. He was so sweet at times that it was impossible not to be enamored with him.
Aurora was a nice change of pace. She was intelligent and insightful. I liked that she had so much mystery surrounding her and my heart went out to her for everything.
This was a great start to this duet. It did a great job introducing the characters and a bit of their backgrounds. It was easy to get attached to all of the characters. The writing was engaging and entertaining. That ending has me in a choke hold and I can’t wait to start the next book! I would definitely recommend Vendetta Vows!!
Ruslan might be ruthless and dangerous but he sure is not shy about showing Aurora adoration and patience. I loved that Ruslan wasn't ashamed of his feelings. He was willing to be emotional with Aurora and not hide who he is. He was so sweet at times that it was impossible not to be enamored with him.
Aurora was a nice change of pace. She was intelligent and insightful. I liked that she had so much mystery surrounding her and my heart went out to her for everything.
This was a great start to this duet. It did a great job introducing the characters and a bit of their backgrounds. It was easy to get attached to all of the characters. The writing was engaging and entertaining. That ending has me in a choke hold and I can’t wait to start the next book! I would definitely recommend Vendetta Vows!!
August 9, 2025
EXHILARATING!!! The first book in the Dragunov duet is the ultimate escape into mafia romance. It is brimming with emotion, suspense, and passion.
From the very first chapters, Ruslan and Aurora's story grips you. Their initial encounter is transformative for both, and their chemistry is SIZZLING. The family drama woven throughout their intimate journey only adds to the depth of the narrative.
Ruslan may not have sought the role of Pakhan in the Dragunov Bratva, but circumstances have irrevocably changed his life and future. Meanwhile, Aurora is on the run from a violent and tragic past that she can’t outrun forever. Together, they forge a marriage of convenience that significantly benefits them both.
Their path to a happily ever after is fraught with betrayal, unexpected twists, enticing and sensual moments, and real danger. Aurora’s character development is particularly compelling. She begins as scared and guarded, but through Ruslan's unwavering support and respect, she discovers her strength, empowerment, and purpose.
Ruslan, in turn, learns to love again, with Aurora by his side, supporting him within the Bratva and his family.
Suppose you're in search of a dark mafia romance that features a found family and is truly interesting, captivating, and entertaining, populated with engaging and alluring characters. In that case, you won't be disappointed with this book. Be aware, this is just the first part of a two-book series, and it concludes with a striking and astonishing cliffhanger!
From the very first chapters, Ruslan and Aurora's story grips you. Their initial encounter is transformative for both, and their chemistry is SIZZLING. The family drama woven throughout their intimate journey only adds to the depth of the narrative.
Ruslan may not have sought the role of Pakhan in the Dragunov Bratva, but circumstances have irrevocably changed his life and future. Meanwhile, Aurora is on the run from a violent and tragic past that she can’t outrun forever. Together, they forge a marriage of convenience that significantly benefits them both.
Their path to a happily ever after is fraught with betrayal, unexpected twists, enticing and sensual moments, and real danger. Aurora’s character development is particularly compelling. She begins as scared and guarded, but through Ruslan's unwavering support and respect, she discovers her strength, empowerment, and purpose.
Ruslan, in turn, learns to love again, with Aurora by his side, supporting him within the Bratva and his family.
Suppose you're in search of a dark mafia romance that features a found family and is truly interesting, captivating, and entertaining, populated with engaging and alluring characters. In that case, you won't be disappointed with this book. Be aware, this is just the first part of a two-book series, and it concludes with a striking and astonishing cliffhanger!
May 2, 2025
From strangers to some that like fate!
This was such a beautiful and emotionally rich love story. Aurora and Ruslan meet at the beginning of the book, and I enjoyed watching their relationship grow and deepen with each chapter. Their bond is built on mutual respect, trust, and shared healing as they work through past traumas—together.
This book stands out from Brook’s earlier works by focusing on a couple that evolves into a true partnership, rather than enemies to lovers. The emotional connection is strong, and the spice is perfectly placed—building gradually and intensifying in all the right ways.
This was such a beautiful and emotionally rich love story. Aurora and Ruslan meet at the beginning of the book, and I enjoyed watching their relationship grow and deepen with each chapter. Their bond is built on mutual respect, trust, and shared healing as they work through past traumas—together.
This book stands out from Brook’s earlier works by focusing on a couple that evolves into a true partnership, rather than enemies to lovers. The emotional connection is strong, and the spice is perfectly placed—building gradually and intensifying in all the right ways.
May 8, 2025
Tato autorka mě vždy dostane <3
- stalker, 7 let skrývání pod falešnou identitou
- smrt rodiny, vražda přítelkyně
- filmový průmysl, bratva
- kulisářka a majitel produkce
- insta přitažlivost = podobné stíny minulosti, rozumějí si v tomto strachu
- válka a mocenská hra v bratvě
- manželství z výhodnosti
- hrdinky možnost nahlížet na situace v okolí byla skvělá a užitečná.. nestává se často aby člověk nenarozený v mafii byl schopný číst, vyjednávat a orientovat se v tomto životě
- hrdina a jeho emoční inteligence, podpora svých blízkých byla také jedinečná
- stalker, 7 let skrývání pod falešnou identitou
- smrt rodiny, vražda přítelkyně
- filmový průmysl, bratva
- kulisářka a majitel produkce
- insta přitažlivost = podobné stíny minulosti, rozumějí si v tomto strachu
- válka a mocenská hra v bratvě
- manželství z výhodnosti
- hrdinky možnost nahlížet na situace v okolí byla skvělá a užitečná.. nestává se často aby člověk nenarozený v mafii byl schopný číst, vyjednávat a orientovat se v tomto životě
- hrdina a jeho emoční inteligence, podpora svých blízkých byla také jedinečná
May 20, 2025
wow
Ok my dears, this was my first time I’ve read anything from this author, not only am I gonna be following her and reading more books from her, but I must say I loved the realism in this book, it’s a fantastic way to be introduced to this great author who looks like she has one purpose to merge both reality and fantasy together and she dose it superbly, I am looking forward to reading more. A seriously new fan
Ok my dears, this was my first time I’ve read anything from this author, not only am I gonna be following her and reading more books from her, but I must say I loved the realism in this book, it’s a fantastic way to be introduced to this great author who looks like she has one purpose to merge both reality and fantasy together and she dose it superbly, I am looking forward to reading more. A seriously new fan
June 6, 2025
Vows
Awesome book. Beijing forced back into a life he hated because he did not want his young nieces to suffer when they were older. He went back to protect them and the woman he fell in love with. She had a very dark past that he wanted to protect her from. But he did not get his wish.
This is a wonderful love story.
Awesome book. Beijing forced back into a life he hated because he did not want his young nieces to suffer when they were older. He went back to protect them and the woman he fell in love with. She had a very dark past that he wanted to protect her from. But he did not get his wish.
This is a wonderful love story.
July 24, 2025
wow was not expecting this!
Idk what I was expecting but it wasn’t this. I was expecting a normal mafia romance story but this adaption was so much better!! I loved this I loved that it didn’t just go with the norm of mafia force proxy it was a great story great characters. Can’t wait for more…
Idk what I was expecting but it wasn’t this. I was expecting a normal mafia romance story but this adaption was so much better!! I loved this I loved that it didn’t just go with the norm of mafia force proxy it was a great story great characters. Can’t wait for more…
May 4, 2025
Wow! Such a wonderfully written book. Great chemistry between the main characters. Fantastic story and ended with a bang. Time to read book 2 to see what happens now.
May 9, 2025
In Edge
Oh my goodness….book 2, I can’t take it!!! This was really good, very suspenseful. I really enjoyed this book and I’m ready for book 2
Oh my goodness….book 2, I can’t take it!!! This was really good, very suspenseful. I really enjoyed this book and I’m ready for book 2
May 24, 2025
I love this series
May 27, 2025
Holy cats didn’t know I needed a little Aurora & Ruslan in my life, but here we are, and I wouldn’t go back!
Phew, thank goodness we do not need to wait long for book two;)
Phew, thank goodness we do not need to wait long for book two;)
May 4, 2025
EXHILARATING!!! The first book in the Dragunov duet is just the best kind of mafia romance to escape into. It’s filled with emotion, suspense,and passion.
Ruslan and Aurora story had me so fascinated from the first chapters.
Their first encounter was enlightening for both of them and their chemistry is SIZZLING.
I enjoyed the family drama along with all the intimate aspects of their story.
Ruslan may have not wanted to be Pakhan of the Dragunov Bratva but circumstances have changed the trajectory of his life and future.
Aurora is running from a very tragic and brutal past that ends up catching up to her.
Together, Ruslan and Aurora enter into a marriage of convenience that benefits both of them.
Their path to a HEA is filled with betrayal, twist and turns, enticing and sensual moments and danger.
I really enjoyed how Aurora characters develops throughout this first book. In the beginning she’s scared, guarded and endearing, then with the help of Ruslan and how he treats her as an equal, she finds strength, empowerment and purpose.
As for Ruslan, Aurora is showing him how to love again and supports him within the Bratva and his family.
So if you’re looking for a found family, dark mafia romance that is INTERESTING, CAPTIVATING and ENTERTAINING with ENGAGING and ALLURING characters, you will definitely be highly satisfied and delighted with this book.
Please keep in mind this book is the first of two and it ends with a striking and astonishing cliffhanger!
Ruslan and Aurora story had me so fascinated from the first chapters.
Their first encounter was enlightening for both of them and their chemistry is SIZZLING.
I enjoyed the family drama along with all the intimate aspects of their story.
Ruslan may have not wanted to be Pakhan of the Dragunov Bratva but circumstances have changed the trajectory of his life and future.
Aurora is running from a very tragic and brutal past that ends up catching up to her.
Together, Ruslan and Aurora enter into a marriage of convenience that benefits both of them.
Their path to a HEA is filled with betrayal, twist and turns, enticing and sensual moments and danger.
I really enjoyed how Aurora characters develops throughout this first book. In the beginning she’s scared, guarded and endearing, then with the help of Ruslan and how he treats her as an equal, she finds strength, empowerment and purpose.
As for Ruslan, Aurora is showing him how to love again and supports him within the Bratva and his family.
So if you’re looking for a found family, dark mafia romance that is INTERESTING, CAPTIVATING and ENTERTAINING with ENGAGING and ALLURING characters, you will definitely be highly satisfied and delighted with this book.
Please keep in mind this book is the first of two and it ends with a striking and astonishing cliffhanger!
May 2, 2025
Exciting
I absolutely loved Vendetta Vows and Vendetta Crown! I loved that Aurora was not a damsel in distress. She had a controlling boyfriend who murdered her family so she in turn faked her own death and disappeared. Aurora and Ruslan meet-cute, she is a witness to his nephew’s murder, he saves her life and they decide to enter into a marriage of convenience. Well of course that doesn’t last! Eventually, her real identity is outed by Ruslan’s jealous ex and also by his sister in law. The ex-boyfriend is a cop who is very much a stalker and crazy. It was refreshing that there were no secrets by one partner to protect the other. It became a true partnership. The “request” on the Vegas room reservation was brilliant! Just when you think it is too late in the book for anymore action, there’s more excitement. Such a great read!
I absolutely loved Vendetta Vows and Vendetta Crown! I loved that Aurora was not a damsel in distress. She had a controlling boyfriend who murdered her family so she in turn faked her own death and disappeared. Aurora and Ruslan meet-cute, she is a witness to his nephew’s murder, he saves her life and they decide to enter into a marriage of convenience. Well of course that doesn’t last! Eventually, her real identity is outed by Ruslan’s jealous ex and also by his sister in law. The ex-boyfriend is a cop who is very much a stalker and crazy. It was refreshing that there were no secrets by one partner to protect the other. It became a true partnership. The “request” on the Vegas room reservation was brilliant! Just when you think it is too late in the book for anymore action, there’s more excitement. Such a great read!
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews