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New York Criminal Empire #2
The Russian Retribution
I never asked to inherit my father’s bloody empire.
Just had to survive his cruelty, play the obedient daughter, and wait.
Then I killed him—
The Russian Pakhan. My father. My monster.
Retribution was mine. So was the throne.
Now the bratva bows… but not willingly.
They whisper betrayal. They test my power. They want me dead.
Viktor Petrov, my father’s most loyal man, pretends to guide me—
but I see the knife in his smile.
And Erik Izmaylov?
The lethal security advisor with a soldier’s soul and sins in his eyes.
He watches my every move.
Fights like a savage.
Touches me like he owns every breath I take.
He was never meant to be mine…
Because Viktor sent him to uncover the truth.
To prove I murdered the Pakhan.
To deliver my execution.
But Erik didn’t count on falling for the woman he was sent to betray.
And I didn’t count on trusting the one man who could end me.
This isn’t some redemption story — It’s a death sentence wrapped in forbidden desire.
But the Russian Godmother doesn’t go down easy—
And Erik Izmaylov is no one’s pawn.
The question isn’t whether I’ll survive ruling this empire soaked in blood—
It’s whether he’ll survive when I discover what he’s done.
Author’s This dark mafia romance features a ruthless female don, a morally grey alpha hero, betrayal, secret pregnancy, power struggles, and dangerous attraction. For readers who crave high-stakes passion, emotional depth, and violent beauty—enter at your own risk. Not for the faint of heart.
Just had to survive his cruelty, play the obedient daughter, and wait.
Then I killed him—
The Russian Pakhan. My father. My monster.
Retribution was mine. So was the throne.
Now the bratva bows… but not willingly.
They whisper betrayal. They test my power. They want me dead.
Viktor Petrov, my father’s most loyal man, pretends to guide me—
but I see the knife in his smile.
And Erik Izmaylov?
The lethal security advisor with a soldier’s soul and sins in his eyes.
He watches my every move.
Fights like a savage.
Touches me like he owns every breath I take.
He was never meant to be mine…
Because Viktor sent him to uncover the truth.
To prove I murdered the Pakhan.
To deliver my execution.
But Erik didn’t count on falling for the woman he was sent to betray.
And I didn’t count on trusting the one man who could end me.
This isn’t some redemption story — It’s a death sentence wrapped in forbidden desire.
But the Russian Godmother doesn’t go down easy—
And Erik Izmaylov is no one’s pawn.
The question isn’t whether I’ll survive ruling this empire soaked in blood—
It’s whether he’ll survive when I discover what he’s done.
Author’s This dark mafia romance features a ruthless female don, a morally grey alpha hero, betrayal, secret pregnancy, power struggles, and dangerous attraction. For readers who crave high-stakes passion, emotional depth, and violent beauty—enter at your own risk. Not for the faint of heart.
316 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 4, 2025
687 people are currently reading
129 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
May 27, 2025
This was very good. Anastasia took over her branch of the mob when her father was murdered. Her father's second was not happy and worked against her. I really like how when the generals that were not doing what she asked, she taught them a lesson in retribution. She was strong, people were just working against her. Erik was her new security guard. and they grew close even though he was close to Victor (her father's second). Lots of drama, some close calls with death and a romance that is tricky to handle.
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.
October 19, 2025
Im guessing there are a lot of stand alones with interconnected characters to Avas books.
Plenty of troupes stuffed into this one:
Bodyguard troupe
pregnancy troupe
betrayal troupe
found family?
Plenty of troupes stuffed into this one:
Bodyguard troupe
pregnancy troupe
betrayal troupe
found family?
July 1, 2025
The Russian Retribution is the second book in a New York Criminal Empire Series. This Erik and Anastasia story which story which told from a dual point. A brilliantly crafted story with complex individuals and a twisty and fascinating storyline that grabs the audience attention from the first chapter and keeps you hooked and on the edge of your seat with it's pulse-pounding suspense, high-octane action and non-stop twists and turns. An unputdownable and absorbing addictive read. Hang on to your kindle and brace yourself for this tantalizing rollercoaster ride filled with mystery, tension, cravings, and heart-stirring emotions and follow along as these two characters fall in love. This is book demands to be read and screamed escape from the everyday life and gave that something extra that you craved and never knew that you needed. Decadent. Captivating. Dangerous. Dark. Twisted. This dark mafia romance features a ruthless female don, a morally-grey alpha hero, betrayal, secret pregnancy, power struggles, and dangerous attraction. For readers who crave high-stakes passion, emotional depth, and violent beauty enter at your own risk. For this is not for the faint of heart.
Mafia princess Anastasia Zemizova has endure a harsh upbringing at the hands of her evil father who blames her for the death of his wife who died in childbirth while bringing her into the world. After enduring years of abuse and cruelty Anastasia kills her father, the Russian pakhan when she learnt of his plans to sell her and trafficking the children. Her father was her monster and retribution was hers and so was the throne. She never expected to gain his blooded empire and now the Bratva bows before her but not willing with her at helm. Some want her dead and they test her power. Her father's second-in-command Viktor Petrov thought she was going to hand over her inheritance. He pretends to guide her in the business and politics of the Bratva. But she sees through his lies. She sees the knife in his smile waiting to plunge in her back.
She has had many attempts on her life and Viktor send his spy Erik Izmaylov to watch her every move. The lethal security advisor with a soldier's soul and sins in his eyes. He sent by Viktor to uncover the where it proves that she murdered the pakhan and to deliver her execution. Anastasia as proven to be a force to reckon with in her new position. She wants to restructure the organization something that is not in alignment with her predecessor. She no longer wants to run her empire illegally and works on legitimize the businesses. The more time that two spends to lines blurred and they succumb to their attraction. Little does she know that Erik has a hidden agenda and that she couldn't count and keep trusting the man who could be the end of her. But Erik didn't count on falling for the woman he was sent to to betray. These two were not meant to be together because of their station in society. Every turn that she made it seems that someone was out to get her.
And when her guys disobeyed her she would teach them a valuable lesson. This Russian godmother doesn’t go down easy. The question isn't whether she'll survive ruling her empire soaked in blood. It's whether she'll survive when she discover what he has done. They're many assassins on the hunt from different families and traitors in house who can she trust. After Erik was unsuccessful in giving Viktor the information that he needs he took matters in his own hands. Viktor had his security kidnapped Anastasia who wanted to kill her baby she had to fight like hell for both of their lives. They're so many twists and turns, violence, bloodshed, enemies, anger, threats, revenge, retaliation, action packed, madness, double-cross, treachery, surprises, darkness, survival, attacks, murder, hatred, human trafficking, manipulation, redemption, kidnapped, alliance, attempted murder, power play, consensual intense rough sex, secrets, greed, pawn, resilience, suspense, hurt and pain, passion, love and more. Will Erik prove his loyalty to Viktor or Anastasia? How will Erik react to finding out that he's going to be a dad? Will will run the Remizova empire? Will Viktor be successful in wrestling the reins from Anastasia? Will Anastasia and Erik get their HEA?
I received an advanced copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Mafia princess Anastasia Zemizova has endure a harsh upbringing at the hands of her evil father who blames her for the death of his wife who died in childbirth while bringing her into the world. After enduring years of abuse and cruelty Anastasia kills her father, the Russian pakhan when she learnt of his plans to sell her and trafficking the children. Her father was her monster and retribution was hers and so was the throne. She never expected to gain his blooded empire and now the Bratva bows before her but not willing with her at helm. Some want her dead and they test her power. Her father's second-in-command Viktor Petrov thought she was going to hand over her inheritance. He pretends to guide her in the business and politics of the Bratva. But she sees through his lies. She sees the knife in his smile waiting to plunge in her back.
She has had many attempts on her life and Viktor send his spy Erik Izmaylov to watch her every move. The lethal security advisor with a soldier's soul and sins in his eyes. He sent by Viktor to uncover the where it proves that she murdered the pakhan and to deliver her execution. Anastasia as proven to be a force to reckon with in her new position. She wants to restructure the organization something that is not in alignment with her predecessor. She no longer wants to run her empire illegally and works on legitimize the businesses. The more time that two spends to lines blurred and they succumb to their attraction. Little does she know that Erik has a hidden agenda and that she couldn't count and keep trusting the man who could be the end of her. But Erik didn't count on falling for the woman he was sent to to betray. These two were not meant to be together because of their station in society. Every turn that she made it seems that someone was out to get her.
And when her guys disobeyed her she would teach them a valuable lesson. This Russian godmother doesn’t go down easy. The question isn't whether she'll survive ruling her empire soaked in blood. It's whether she'll survive when she discover what he has done. They're many assassins on the hunt from different families and traitors in house who can she trust. After Erik was unsuccessful in giving Viktor the information that he needs he took matters in his own hands. Viktor had his security kidnapped Anastasia who wanted to kill her baby she had to fight like hell for both of their lives. They're so many twists and turns, violence, bloodshed, enemies, anger, threats, revenge, retaliation, action packed, madness, double-cross, treachery, surprises, darkness, survival, attacks, murder, hatred, human trafficking, manipulation, redemption, kidnapped, alliance, attempted murder, power play, consensual intense rough sex, secrets, greed, pawn, resilience, suspense, hurt and pain, passion, love and more. Will Erik prove his loyalty to Viktor or Anastasia? How will Erik react to finding out that he's going to be a dad? Will will run the Remizova empire? Will Viktor be successful in wrestling the reins from Anastasia? Will Anastasia and Erik get their HEA?
I received an advanced copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 10, 2025
AHHHHHHH
ATE IT UP
SO GOOD
Blurb
never asked to inherit my father’s bloody empire.
Just had to survive his cruelty, play the obedient daughter, and wait.
Then I killed him—
The Russian Pakhan. My father. My monster.
Retribution was mine. So was the throne.
Now the bratva bows… but not willingly.
They whisper betrayal. They test my power. They want me dead.
Viktor Petrov, my father’s most loyal man, pretends to guide me—
but I see the knife in his smile.
And Erik Izmaylov?
The lethal security advisor with a soldier’s soul and sins in his eyes.
He watches my every move.
Fights like a savage.
Touches me like he owns every breath I take.
He was never meant to be mine…
Because Viktor sent him to uncover the truth.
To prove I murdered the Pakhan.
To deliver my execution.
But Erik didn’t count on falling for the woman he was sent to betray.
And I didn’t count on trusting the one man who could end me.
This isn’t some redemption story — It’s a death sentence wrapped in forbidden desire.
But the Russian Godmother doesn’t go down easy—
And Erik Izmaylov is no one’s pawn.
The question isn’t whether I’ll survive ruling this empire soaked in blood—
It’s whether he’ll survive when I discover what he’s done.
Thoughts
Truly I loved every moment while reading this book!!
Anastasia character truly shocked me she was an absolute queen- she was so strong after everything she was put through and watching her gain her strength and realizing that its okay for help made me sob😭
Okay so at first I really didn't like Erik..BUT homeboy redeemed himself! his character development was great!! ALSO THE WAY HE JUST WANTED TO KEEP ANASTASIA SAFE. He LITERALLY would take a bullet for home girl.
now I'm not typically a fan of the accidental pregnant trope but this one actually worked really well!
there were a lot of twists in this book and a lot of explosions and I mean like A LOT and this book definitely took me on a roller coaster of emotions and I would 1,000% go through them again!
I need the third book like NOW please🥺
ATE IT UP
SO GOOD
Blurb
never asked to inherit my father’s bloody empire.
Just had to survive his cruelty, play the obedient daughter, and wait.
Then I killed him—
The Russian Pakhan. My father. My monster.
Retribution was mine. So was the throne.
Now the bratva bows… but not willingly.
They whisper betrayal. They test my power. They want me dead.
Viktor Petrov, my father’s most loyal man, pretends to guide me—
but I see the knife in his smile.
And Erik Izmaylov?
The lethal security advisor with a soldier’s soul and sins in his eyes.
He watches my every move.
Fights like a savage.
Touches me like he owns every breath I take.
He was never meant to be mine…
Because Viktor sent him to uncover the truth.
To prove I murdered the Pakhan.
To deliver my execution.
But Erik didn’t count on falling for the woman he was sent to betray.
And I didn’t count on trusting the one man who could end me.
This isn’t some redemption story — It’s a death sentence wrapped in forbidden desire.
But the Russian Godmother doesn’t go down easy—
And Erik Izmaylov is no one’s pawn.
The question isn’t whether I’ll survive ruling this empire soaked in blood—
It’s whether he’ll survive when I discover what he’s done.
Thoughts
Truly I loved every moment while reading this book!!
Anastasia character truly shocked me she was an absolute queen- she was so strong after everything she was put through and watching her gain her strength and realizing that its okay for help made me sob😭
Okay so at first I really didn't like Erik..BUT homeboy redeemed himself! his character development was great!! ALSO THE WAY HE JUST WANTED TO KEEP ANASTASIA SAFE. He LITERALLY would take a bullet for home girl.
now I'm not typically a fan of the accidental pregnant trope but this one actually worked really well!
there were a lot of twists in this book and a lot of explosions and I mean like A LOT and this book definitely took me on a roller coaster of emotions and I would 1,000% go through them again!
I need the third book like NOW please🥺
May 27, 2025
Anastasia has become the Godmother of the Remizova family after her father's death.
She has been facing push back from her father's advisors for all her plans for moving the family into a more lucrative line of work.
She has a new security advisor in Erik who was appointed by Viktor, her father's former underboss.
She has several attempts at taking her life which thrusts her into Erik's orbit.
She has sex with Erik after a particular gruesome event. She tells him it can't be repeated, but they continue to come together.
She is working hard to turn the family fortunes around by aligning the family with other Russian families and allies.
Viktor her father's underboss, continues to pressure Erik to find evidence that she murdered her father.
She finds out she is pregnant with Erik's child.
Erik confesses he is attempting to find evidence she murdered her father.
She throws him out and fires him.
She is speaking at the annual charity ball when it is bombed.
She is kidnapped by Viktor's security forces where he tries to abort her child.
She is in denial and refuses to engage with any staff except her Underboss.
Erik makes a miraculous recovery after being shot, and they reunite.
There is a HEA ending.
The plot is very complex, well developed with plenty of twists.
I felt a lot of sympathy for Anastasia as a woman thrown into a role for which she is not well prepared.
This was not a formula book at all.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
She has been facing push back from her father's advisors for all her plans for moving the family into a more lucrative line of work.
She has a new security advisor in Erik who was appointed by Viktor, her father's former underboss.
She has several attempts at taking her life which thrusts her into Erik's orbit.
She has sex with Erik after a particular gruesome event. She tells him it can't be repeated, but they continue to come together.
She is working hard to turn the family fortunes around by aligning the family with other Russian families and allies.
Viktor her father's underboss, continues to pressure Erik to find evidence that she murdered her father.
She finds out she is pregnant with Erik's child.
Erik confesses he is attempting to find evidence she murdered her father.
She throws him out and fires him.
She is speaking at the annual charity ball when it is bombed.
She is kidnapped by Viktor's security forces where he tries to abort her child.
She is in denial and refuses to engage with any staff except her Underboss.
Erik makes a miraculous recovery after being shot, and they reunite.
There is a HEA ending.
The plot is very complex, well developed with plenty of twists.
I felt a lot of sympathy for Anastasia as a woman thrown into a role for which she is not well prepared.
This was not a formula book at all.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 4, 2025
This is the 2nd story in the A New York Criminal Empire Series where we find Anastasia in power of her family since her father the Russian Pakhan’s untimely death becoming the Godmother. Due to being a woman her father’s old regime does not take her seriously and how she handles it is one of revenge that others will not forget. With only her father’s underboss, Viktor helps run the family businesses. Many are shocked that Anastasia shuts down illegal activities and caring for those that have been taken advantage. Viktor believes that Anastasia is responsible for killing her father and he gets help from Erik a young man who he took in as a son after tragedy happened to his family to become her security advisor. After several kidnapping attempts Erik is moved to her bodyguard and these two become more quickly in a tricky situation. When hidden secrets are revealed and plans in place to end those responsible for the betrayal does Anastasia’s complicated life become extremely dangerous and Erik is stuck between his loyalty to Viktor and his love for Anastasia. The survivor will rule the Russian Empire. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 3, 2025
Anastasia and Erik
Anastasia is the head of her family after the death of her father. Eric was a driver for the family that was promoted to head of security. It was his job the keep her safe, but also to spy on her.
Ana did not like how her father did things and is creating new streams of income for them that involve human suffering. Erik is watching her but also learning more about her. In watching her, he became attracted to her, but knows that she is boss, so he kept their interactions respectful.
Ana is attracted to him and decides she gonna go for what she wants. After the first time she tell Erik , it won't happen and to forget about it. She didn't listen to own words, because each and every time was initiated by the boooossss.
This was a great followup to the series. However, everything in me was telling me Viktor played a role in what happened to Erik's sister. I also believed he knew the plans Ana's father had for her.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Anastasia is the head of her family after the death of her father. Eric was a driver for the family that was promoted to head of security. It was his job the keep her safe, but also to spy on her.
Ana did not like how her father did things and is creating new streams of income for them that involve human suffering. Erik is watching her but also learning more about her. In watching her, he became attracted to her, but knows that she is boss, so he kept their interactions respectful.
Ana is attracted to him and decides she gonna go for what she wants. After the first time she tell Erik , it won't happen and to forget about it. She didn't listen to own words, because each and every time was initiated by the boooossss.
This was a great followup to the series. However, everything in me was telling me Viktor played a role in what happened to Erik's sister. I also believed he knew the plans Ana's father had for her.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 7, 2025
Anastasia has become head of the Remizova family after the death of her father, brought about by her. If it is found out, it would be a death sentence for her. She wants to bring the family away from the life of crime to legitimate businesses. He father's faithful are not in line with what she wants to do. She has a new bodyguard after a bomb takes out her last one. There is something about Erik that is irresistible.
What she does not realize he has his own agenda, to determine if she killed he father and report back to her father's underboss, Viktor. But as he gets closer to Anastasia his feelings war with his duty. What either do when each of their truths come out?
Where will Erik's loyalties, with the man who raised him or the woman that is now carrying his child and holds his heart? Some may find it triggering with the violence and human trafficking element. This is a page turner from start to finish but I am a big fan of the trope.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
What she does not realize he has his own agenda, to determine if she killed he father and report back to her father's underboss, Viktor. But as he gets closer to Anastasia his feelings war with his duty. What either do when each of their truths come out?
Where will Erik's loyalties, with the man who raised him or the woman that is now carrying his child and holds his heart? Some may find it triggering with the violence and human trafficking element. This is a page turner from start to finish but I am a big fan of the trope.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 14, 2025
Anastasia, the Godmother of the Russian mafia, finds herself in a precarious situation after her father’s death. She faces hostility from all sides, struggling to survive not only assassination attempts but also the burden of concealing her father’s murder. Trust is a rare commodity and is in short supply in her new reality. However, when a member of her security team, Erik, saves her life, she makes him her personal bodyguard. As they spend more time together, their attraction intensifies, leading to a blossoming romance. Tragically, Erik’s secret threatens to expose their love and result in a devastating betrayal.
I loved so much about this story. Anastasia is fighting to change the entire dynamic of her Russian family and meeting with resistance at every turn. This book starts out with a bang and gets more intriguing with every page. You have a strong heroine who is isolated but determined and a fierce and protective hero who is a little misguided and falling fast for his boss. Aside from the compelling story you have just the right amount of spice. I loved the character and the story. I was drawn to this story because the head of the family is a female in a world designed to keep her meek and silent and I was not disappointed. Another great ready by Ava Grey.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I loved so much about this story. Anastasia is fighting to change the entire dynamic of her Russian family and meeting with resistance at every turn. This book starts out with a bang and gets more intriguing with every page. You have a strong heroine who is isolated but determined and a fierce and protective hero who is a little misguided and falling fast for his boss. Aside from the compelling story you have just the right amount of spice. I loved the character and the story. I was drawn to this story because the head of the family is a female in a world designed to keep her meek and silent and I was not disappointed. Another great ready by Ava Grey.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 4, 2025
Wow what a great mafia novel this was. We follow Anastasia who suffered the cruelties of her own father the Pakhan for years and always said that if she gets the chance she will kill him and she did but no one and certainly her own people must not know because that would mean the end of her. She has a lot to fight against her own people who are in her way especially Viktor her father's second hand. But there is Erik who on behalf of Viktor tries to find out what is going on with her father and his death and what her agenda is and tries to pass that on to him, she quickly has feelings for him but will he go into it and what happens when the secrets come out? A great romance with secrets, betrayal, action, drama and enough steam!
I received an Advance Reader copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an Advance Reader copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 28, 2025
After killing her father Anastasia took over a branch or the Russian Bratva, he was about to sell her to the lowest bidder it get rid of her.
She also found out he was about to start human trafficking using children and that horrified her but nobody must find out she killed him as it would mean her death.
Her generals ignored her ideas of shutting down under age girls used in pornography by them and dealt with them, her style, poisoned.
She has so many enemies and one man who really disliked following her rules Viktor her father second.
The only bright spot in her day was Erik, her new security guard and soon to be lover if she had any thing to do with it.
This is a must read, drama at every turn and near death for quite a few people, brilliant.
Loved it.
She also found out he was about to start human trafficking using children and that horrified her but nobody must find out she killed him as it would mean her death.
Her generals ignored her ideas of shutting down under age girls used in pornography by them and dealt with them, her style, poisoned.
She has so many enemies and one man who really disliked following her rules Viktor her father second.
The only bright spot in her day was Erik, her new security guard and soon to be lover if she had any thing to do with it.
This is a must read, drama at every turn and near death for quite a few people, brilliant.
Loved it.
June 4, 2025
This is one of the best mafia books I have read! It has a female leader, Anastasia. She changes everything her father built. She is I true warrior and leader. It just takes her a bit to figure out all her allegiances. Her biggest is Erik who was sent to spy on her but their connection is really strong. He finds out who she really is and not the Ice princess she has been portrayed as . This book as so many elements to it that keep the reader interested and invested in the entire storyline. As usual the author did a great job with the storyline and the characters in this book. The emotional depth of this book is outstanding. The betrayal is off the charts with unexpected revelations. It is very dark in content dealing with human trafficking including children. The victims champion is a young woman who goes against all Mafia expectations and believes. I highly recommend reading it! I would give in and the author more than 5 stars if possible.
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 31, 2025
The Russian Retribution by Ava Gray is the exciting story of Erik and Anastasia. She’s been thrust into the role of Godmother, following the death of her father. Erik has been brought in as her protector…given the upheaval of the Remizova Bratva. But, there are soooo many secrets!!! So much deception!!! So many who want her gone….there’s no one she can trust…
Freaking aaaaaamazing read!!! This one is an unusual twist in the Bratva romance genre…a woman running the Bratva…unheard of. So many twists and turns…so many unresolved issues…so many things coming to light!!! What a fantastic story!!!
Freaking aaaaaamazing read!!! This one is an unusual twist in the Bratva romance genre…a woman running the Bratva…unheard of. So many twists and turns…so many unresolved issues…so many things coming to light!!! What a fantastic story!!!
June 2, 2025
The Russian Retribution
Eric and Anastasia
Anastasia has become "Godmother" after her Pakhan father was murdered much to the dismay and outrage of the generals. Eric has been placed as her security advisor by Viktor, her father's old friend and second in command. Viktor is convinced that she killed her father and wants Eric to investigate. Like 'The Irish Redemption' the book has the undertones of the Underworld storyline but is much more of a thriller/mystery. Murder; attempted assassinations; broken trusts; and twists to the story will have you guessing until the very end.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Eric and Anastasia
Anastasia has become "Godmother" after her Pakhan father was murdered much to the dismay and outrage of the generals. Eric has been placed as her security advisor by Viktor, her father's old friend and second in command. Viktor is convinced that she killed her father and wants Eric to investigate. Like 'The Irish Redemption' the book has the undertones of the Underworld storyline but is much more of a thriller/mystery. Murder; attempted assassinations; broken trusts; and twists to the story will have you guessing until the very end.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 11, 2025
Trying to ruin the Godmother
We all know how women aren't supposed to be in power in the Bratva, well this one is no exception, however she works her a$$ off to get the job done. The previous pakhan is killed & his second in command expects his daughter to give him the position of power, however when that doesn't happen he decides to get someone close to her. When it takes a while for him to even get close to her assassination attempts keep happening on her life. They finally work together & get close only to discover more secrets. When the truth comes out many people die, including the main cause of it all. It's a great read & the ending is surprising.
We all know how women aren't supposed to be in power in the Bratva, well this one is no exception, however she works her a$$ off to get the job done. The previous pakhan is killed & his second in command expects his daughter to give him the position of power, however when that doesn't happen he decides to get someone close to her. When it takes a while for him to even get close to her assassination attempts keep happening on her life. They finally work together & get close only to discover more secrets. When the truth comes out many people die, including the main cause of it all. It's a great read & the ending is surprising.
June 24, 2025
All Anastasia’s life her father, the Russian Pakhan, blamed her for her mother’s death and treated her with disdain. So much so she needed to protect herself and innocent children from the actions he set forth. Not knowing who she could trust she pushed forward to clean up her family’s misgivings making her a prime target so she hired Erik a guard put in place by her father’s 2nd in command. A pawn in this life if Russian roulette that Anastasia was playing. Good story with unexpected twists and turns.
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.
September 1, 2025
Anastasia and Erik
Anastasia is now the “Godmother” to Russian Mafia taking her place after her father was murdered. This life is not easy and she is getting pushback no matter where she turns. People are trying to kill her, someone is trying to take her place and she is falling in love with her bodyguard. When she finds out Erik is working for her enemy, will she be able to look past that?? I can tell you more but out of respect for the author, all I will tell you is that this was an enjoyable book so if you like to read about the Mafia and the strong willed family members within, then this is a book for you. Enjoy
Anastasia is now the “Godmother” to Russian Mafia taking her place after her father was murdered. This life is not easy and she is getting pushback no matter where she turns. People are trying to kill her, someone is trying to take her place and she is falling in love with her bodyguard. When she finds out Erik is working for her enemy, will she be able to look past that?? I can tell you more but out of respect for the author, all I will tell you is that this was an enjoyable book so if you like to read about the Mafia and the strong willed family members within, then this is a book for you. Enjoy
June 12, 2025
This was a crazy intense story. There is so much ugliness and hate going on, it’s no wonder the girl was stressed.
I think I held my breath through the majority of this book.
I wouldn’t call Eric strong, but I would call him perfect for Anastasia.
Ana wanted to be strong, and she made some amazing decisions, but girl was a little cuckoo and icy from her upbringing.
I can’t decide if I love this book, but I for sure don’t hate it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I think I held my breath through the majority of this book.
I wouldn’t call Eric strong, but I would call him perfect for Anastasia.
Ana wanted to be strong, and she made some amazing decisions, but girl was a little cuckoo and icy from her upbringing.
I can’t decide if I love this book, but I for sure don’t hate it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 15, 2025
Murder and Power
Anastasia is thrust into the position of pakhan when he father is murdered. However, the threat to her life as well as mistrust from her men add a layer of drama and danger. Erik is assigned as her bodyguard with ulterior motives, but their attraction could not be ignored, which was very steamy. It was great to see a strong female character, and I liked how she dealt with those who opposed her authority simply due to her gender. This was an excellent read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Anastasia is thrust into the position of pakhan when he father is murdered. However, the threat to her life as well as mistrust from her men add a layer of drama and danger. Erik is assigned as her bodyguard with ulterior motives, but their attraction could not be ignored, which was very steamy. It was great to see a strong female character, and I liked how she dealt with those who opposed her authority simply due to her gender. This was an excellent read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 16, 2025
Who doesn’t wanna live a badass female Bratva boss? Anastasia rocks this story, but the heat is brought by the man set to betray her - Erik. Now, I’m usually right in the story with Ava Gray and I confess I am a huge fan of her work - but I don’t know why I didn’t LOVE this one.
💙Violence
❤️Redemption
🩷Vulnerability
🧡Enemies to lovers
But…what can I say. Really enjoyed but not obsessed like with her other books.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
💙Violence
❤️Redemption
🩷Vulnerability
🧡Enemies to lovers
But…what can I say. Really enjoyed but not obsessed like with her other books.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 26, 2025
It’s a great story that is well written, full of action and one unexpected love. I fell in love with the two main characters, Erik and Anastasia who are both strong and quickly start relying on each other for support and safety. There are surprises throughout the story and some have their own hidden agendas. I loved everything about this story and would highly recommend it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and are voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and are voluntarily leaving a review.
May 30, 2025
This one is loaded with drama! After the death of her father Anastasia is thrown in as Head of the Remizova family. This woman is a force to be reckoned with! Never having any dealings with the family she's a brilliant Head. Erik is tasked at being her security advisor/spy by her father's former underboss. Things get really interesting then! The Russian Retribution is a great, well written story with characters that absolutely consumes readers from the start.
June 5, 2025
Oh my gosh this was incredibly intense. I was enthralled the entire time. I laughed, cried so many times. I spent a good majority of the book hating one particular character. I loved that so many characters from book 1 were present and that we got to see a few new ones as well. This series is absolutely incredible. I am so glad to have had the opportunity to read them.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book provided by booksprout.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book provided by booksprout.
September 17, 2025
I think this is more of a 3.5 for me. i love the idea of a female boss, ive probably only read a handful of mafia books with that story so i really liked this but i wasn’t really feeling the chemistry between Anastasia and Erik for like 75% of the book.. also not enough groveling 🤷🏻♀️
-female pakhan(referred to as the Russian Godmother)
-badass, ruthless FMC
-secret pregnancy
-ex military MMC
-bodyguard with a hidden agenda
-protective MMC
-forbidden
-betrayal
-female pakhan(referred to as the Russian Godmother)
-badass, ruthless FMC
-secret pregnancy
-ex military MMC
-bodyguard with a hidden agenda
-protective MMC
-forbidden
-betrayal
Read
December 2, 2025I don't like how, in the epilogue, she refers to their baby by her last name only. I understand that Clara is the heir to the Remizova family, but some acknowledgement of Erik's contribution -- the man she just asked to marry her -- would've been nice. Is Erik going to take her last name as she's the Godmother? If so, can it at least be Clara Izmaylov Remizova to honor Erik's family (dad, mom, and little sister) that died?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 25, 2025
Anastasia had lived under her fathers cruel cruel as pakhan but she also ended him too, and now as head of the bratva she has enemies and ones in he rown circle. Erik is set to learn the truth for Viktor, but never counted on falling for his target. But what happens when truths and secrets unravel! Well written engaging steamy desires action drama and more!
May 26, 2025
As a daughter who has struggled to hind her footing to realizing she didn't have one. She has not fought for an empire but herself. Erik has ended up in her path and despite being just stress relief becomes so much more. Will his betrayal at the behest of Erik be their demise or their beginning?.
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 26, 2025
You don't want to keep waiting any longer to read the most amazing mafia romance book in the A New York Criminal Empire series Ava has written. If you loved reading book number one is this series just you wait because book number two about Erik and Anastasia is AWESOME, and this read is full of suspense and intense as well. It's the type of book that has you saying OMG and often.
June 2, 2025
This is a thrilling story packed with betrayal, hidden agendas, secrets and a sizzling love that had me all caught up in the main characters from start to finish. It is a well written storyline with a plot that reads like a movie and as I unfold the layers I really connected with Anastasia and Erik.
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.
June 6, 2025
Anastasia is the Godmother of the Remizova family and dealing with a lot of drama and push back due to being a woman. Then enters Erik into her life and they fall for each other. But the drama, secrets and surprises kept things interesting and fun to read. Had to see what they must go through to get a happy ending... and it was a lot.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews