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Kings of Las Vegas #3
King of Malice
I accidentally entered THE GAME.
My best friend has disappeared.
Growing up in foster care, she’s the only family I’ve got, and the person who saved me on the worst day of my life.
That day is the reason I completely panic when a man even touches me.
But that doesn’t matter now.
It’s my turn to save her.
The last place she was seen?
A Bratva King’s whorehouse.
Dimitri Ivanov is the stuff of nightmares and completely untouchable.
Until he comes to the temp agency where I work.
He’s a single dad who needs a nanny.
I beg, borrow, and steal to get the job. I don’t care about the danger.
This is my only chance to find Cassie.
But stepping into his world is like a trial by fire… testing my strength, pushing on my every fear.
And when I’m thrust into the very GAME that has taken my best friend, the truth becomes
Dimitri is the only man who can protect me.
And the last man I should trust.
My best friend has disappeared.
Growing up in foster care, she’s the only family I’ve got, and the person who saved me on the worst day of my life.
That day is the reason I completely panic when a man even touches me.
But that doesn’t matter now.
It’s my turn to save her.
The last place she was seen?
A Bratva King’s whorehouse.
Dimitri Ivanov is the stuff of nightmares and completely untouchable.
Until he comes to the temp agency where I work.
He’s a single dad who needs a nanny.
I beg, borrow, and steal to get the job. I don’t care about the danger.
This is my only chance to find Cassie.
But stepping into his world is like a trial by fire… testing my strength, pushing on my every fear.
And when I’m thrust into the very GAME that has taken my best friend, the truth becomes
Dimitri is the only man who can protect me.
And the last man I should trust.
248 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 21, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 191 reviews
August 23, 2025
This book did not feel like the others that I've read from this author. It was rushed and lacked character depth in my opinion. Both characters had so much potential for their backstories but we never truly got the information that I think was needed to really develop them into great characters. Their relationship was very insta-love, which can be fine, but not when it takes away from a connection between characters. And that was how this was. On top of all of that, they didn't really get an HEA but more of an HFN that made the story seem like it was cut off out of nowhere. Especially considering this book ended around the 73% mark which honestly just pissed me off. It was very unexpected, and again, did not feel like it actually came to an end but more like it was cut off out of nowhere.
August 6, 2025
ARC Review – King of Malice by Tammy Andresen
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks so much to the author for the ARC of King of Malice by Tammy Andresen, you’ve stolen my soul with this one.
Okay y’all, I jumped into the King of Las Vegas series at book 3 (yes, I skipped the first two… and no regrets). But let me just say: I’m now all in on this universe. Buying the entire series? Absolutely. TBR rearranged? Instantly.
Here’s the thing: King of Malice doesn’t just give you one love story it gives you two. And it’s not just romance, it’s sisterhood, healing, found family, and trauma recovery all wrapped up in Vegas glitz and mafia danger.
Ava and Cassie are sisters by circumstance, not blood, but their bond? Unbreakable. Cassie’s wild, free-spirited, unapologetic. Ava’s soft, guarded, deeply hurt and yet quietly so strong. Watching them protect and fight for each other despite being complete opposites? Yum.
Ava destroyed me. Her trauma felt real, raw and not glossed over for the sake of romance. The stuff with her foster father? Ugh. And yet… she doesn’t give up. She doesn’t magically heal overnight. She works through it. I was rooting for her every step.
Now Dimitri… what his father did to him, the pressure, the darkness he grew up in but still, he wanted to be a good father, for his daughter and a good man for his Ava was absolutely loving. Dimitri is that guy who loves in silence but fiercely.
And the way he loves Anna?? I have no words. He’s soft dad excellence. He’d go full mafia meltdown to protect her and I respect that.
His relationship with Ava? Slow, gentle, so respectful. He never oversteps. He meets her exactly where she is and lets her move at her own pace. He becomes her safe space. And Ava stepping into Anna’s life so gently, so warmly? That was the moment I completely melted.Also just to say if you haven’t read the other characters’ books, you’ll still enjoy this one. You get enough context to follow along, but it definitely leaves you wanting more. (Killian, sir… you’re next.)
Final Thoughts:
King of Malice is a heavy, emotional and surprisingly sweet ride through trauma, love and trust. It’s dark in the way real life can be dark but it’s also full of light, found family, redemption and healing love.
If you like:
• Single dads with soft hearts and brutal protectiveness
• Broken girls who fight like hell to survive
• Mafia romance with actual emotional depth
• Slow burn with mutual respect and no forced healing
Then this one’s for you. 5/5 stars. No skips. Just vibes and tears.
Now go away and let me go binge the rest of the Kings of Las Vegas series.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks so much to the author for the ARC of King of Malice by Tammy Andresen, you’ve stolen my soul with this one.
Okay y’all, I jumped into the King of Las Vegas series at book 3 (yes, I skipped the first two… and no regrets). But let me just say: I’m now all in on this universe. Buying the entire series? Absolutely. TBR rearranged? Instantly.
Here’s the thing: King of Malice doesn’t just give you one love story it gives you two. And it’s not just romance, it’s sisterhood, healing, found family, and trauma recovery all wrapped up in Vegas glitz and mafia danger.
Ava and Cassie are sisters by circumstance, not blood, but their bond? Unbreakable. Cassie’s wild, free-spirited, unapologetic. Ava’s soft, guarded, deeply hurt and yet quietly so strong. Watching them protect and fight for each other despite being complete opposites? Yum.
Ava destroyed me. Her trauma felt real, raw and not glossed over for the sake of romance. The stuff with her foster father? Ugh. And yet… she doesn’t give up. She doesn’t magically heal overnight. She works through it. I was rooting for her every step.
Now Dimitri… what his father did to him, the pressure, the darkness he grew up in but still, he wanted to be a good father, for his daughter and a good man for his Ava was absolutely loving. Dimitri is that guy who loves in silence but fiercely.
And the way he loves Anna?? I have no words. He’s soft dad excellence. He’d go full mafia meltdown to protect her and I respect that.
His relationship with Ava? Slow, gentle, so respectful. He never oversteps. He meets her exactly where she is and lets her move at her own pace. He becomes her safe space. And Ava stepping into Anna’s life so gently, so warmly? That was the moment I completely melted.Also just to say if you haven’t read the other characters’ books, you’ll still enjoy this one. You get enough context to follow along, but it definitely leaves you wanting more. (Killian, sir… you’re next.)
Final Thoughts:
King of Malice is a heavy, emotional and surprisingly sweet ride through trauma, love and trust. It’s dark in the way real life can be dark but it’s also full of light, found family, redemption and healing love.
If you like:
• Single dads with soft hearts and brutal protectiveness
• Broken girls who fight like hell to survive
• Mafia romance with actual emotional depth
• Slow burn with mutual respect and no forced healing
Then this one’s for you. 5/5 stars. No skips. Just vibes and tears.
Now go away and let me go binge the rest of the Kings of Las Vegas series.
March 22, 2026
This was more like a 3.5, but we’ll round up.
One entire star lost for use of the phrase “twig and berries” in reference to male genitalia. Do better on that.
One entire star lost for use of the phrase “twig and berries” in reference to male genitalia. Do better on that.
August 6, 2025
Ava’s best friend Cassie has disappeared. Growing up in foster care, she’s the only family Ava’s got, and the person who saved me on the worst day of my life. Ava is desperate to find but also has a job to do & that’s where she meets Dimitri Ivanov. He comes to the agency where Ava works looking for a nanny for his daughter Anna.
The third book in the series & whilst it could easily be read on its own Dimitri has appeared in other books. I must admit I started this book with Dimitri firmly in the villain category so I wondered why he was having his story & how on earth could he be redeemed. I loved Ava but she carried an awful lot of baggage. Dimitri was a revelation, his interaction with Anna was so touching, yes my opinion of him begin to change. I loved the chemistry between the couple also how he understood Ava & moved at her pace. A very well written book with wonderful characters, a fast paced story & a romance that will melt your heart. The author has once again knocked it out of the ballpark. I loved it & by the end I was firmly on team Dimitri
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
The third book in the series & whilst it could easily be read on its own Dimitri has appeared in other books. I must admit I started this book with Dimitri firmly in the villain category so I wondered why he was having his story & how on earth could he be redeemed. I loved Ava but she carried an awful lot of baggage. Dimitri was a revelation, his interaction with Anna was so touching, yes my opinion of him begin to change. I loved the chemistry between the couple also how he understood Ava & moved at her pace. A very well written book with wonderful characters, a fast paced story & a romance that will melt your heart. The author has once again knocked it out of the ballpark. I loved it & by the end I was firmly on team Dimitri
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
September 7, 2025
Great start.... lazy finish
This author hooked me a while ago with strong character development and thoroughly finishing the plot.
This book is disappointing. You get to the apex of the plot, the beginning of the resolution and boom two chapters later it's finished with no finish or resolution of the big nemesis. Almost like a sibling reading a bedtime story skipping pages to finish early.
The story ends abruptly. Another story, that could have easily been incorporated into the book, is thrown down on the pages. Then a preview. I have to wonder was there a deadline due and the author just threw it in and betrayed themselves?
Doubt I'll continue the series.
This author hooked me a while ago with strong character development and thoroughly finishing the plot.
This book is disappointing. You get to the apex of the plot, the beginning of the resolution and boom two chapters later it's finished with no finish or resolution of the big nemesis. Almost like a sibling reading a bedtime story skipping pages to finish early.
The story ends abruptly. Another story, that could have easily been incorporated into the book, is thrown down on the pages. Then a preview. I have to wonder was there a deadline due and the author just threw it in and betrayed themselves?
Doubt I'll continue the series.
August 24, 2025
Great story! Only complaint is that I finished it too soon! Ava and Dimitri are made for each other and complement each other in a way no one else does. I love how Ms. Andresen weaves previous characters (and future!) into her books. Even though I’ve finished this book, I feel like I’ll see more of these characters soon!
I received a free copy of this book from the author. The thoughts and opinions are my own.
I received a free copy of this book from the author. The thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 26, 2025
Dimitri and Ava🥰
Ava Tantor and her friend Cassie Miller met in a foster home. Since then , they are inseparable. Like sisters. But one day, Cassie just disappeared. It’s not the first time but this time, it’s suspicious. While looking for Cassie, Ava works as a placement for nannies. Dimitri Ivanov needs one for his 3 year old daughter Anastasia. She met with him and they is an attraction immediately. But Ava is broken and doesn’t trust anyone mostly men. But this handsome older man is not what everyone thinks he is. He is Bratva, owner of many casinos and clubs. He is cutthroat and everyone is afraid of him. But underneath his armor, his tte loving father and protector of his two sisters Katarina and Sasha. Will Ava see Dimitri as everyone does or will she let her walls down and fall for the handsome Russian ?
Third book in the King of Las Vegas series. As always, Tammy’s writing is perfect!!! She can write beautiful stories with broken characters. And at the end, they heal each other’s and just fall in love 🥰 Dimitri’s character is so well written and even if he is in the fierce Bratva family, he have the sensibility and cares for his girls. He has a heart of gold underneath his hard apparence. ACS is a fighter and survivor. All she needed was a Dimitri!!! I really love that story and can’t wait for the next book in the series! I highly recommend it! 5 ⭐️
Ava Tantor and her friend Cassie Miller met in a foster home. Since then , they are inseparable. Like sisters. But one day, Cassie just disappeared. It’s not the first time but this time, it’s suspicious. While looking for Cassie, Ava works as a placement for nannies. Dimitri Ivanov needs one for his 3 year old daughter Anastasia. She met with him and they is an attraction immediately. But Ava is broken and doesn’t trust anyone mostly men. But this handsome older man is not what everyone thinks he is. He is Bratva, owner of many casinos and clubs. He is cutthroat and everyone is afraid of him. But underneath his armor, his tte loving father and protector of his two sisters Katarina and Sasha. Will Ava see Dimitri as everyone does or will she let her walls down and fall for the handsome Russian ?
Third book in the King of Las Vegas series. As always, Tammy’s writing is perfect!!! She can write beautiful stories with broken characters. And at the end, they heal each other’s and just fall in love 🥰 Dimitri’s character is so well written and even if he is in the fierce Bratva family, he have the sensibility and cares for his girls. He has a heart of gold underneath his hard apparence. ACS is a fighter and survivor. All she needed was a Dimitri!!! I really love that story and can’t wait for the next book in the series! I highly recommend it! 5 ⭐️
December 30, 2025
Instagram bombarded me with ads for this series. Since I’d read the first 2 books I thought I’d read the last two books in the series to end the year.
This is light reading. It doesn’t make you think hard, it’s just a good story that ends in a HEA. I guess these classify as mafia romances since the MMC does run several criminal & legitimate businesses.
Dimitri is a single father. He needs a new nanny and since his business is around the clock he needs a live in nanny. Ava runs the nanny agency. For Dimitri he knows as soon as he meets Ava that she’s the one for him.
It takes Ava a little longer to feel for Dimitri because of past trauma and her worries about her missing foster sister.
The book tells their journey to love. How she finds her foster sister, his relationship with his father and how that all ties to the ending. The story is brief and concise. It also includes 9 chapters of the novella, King of the Hunt. This novella continues the story of Cadence (Ava’s friend) and what happens to her.
Borrowed this from Kindle Unlimited. Moving on to the next book in the series.
This is light reading. It doesn’t make you think hard, it’s just a good story that ends in a HEA. I guess these classify as mafia romances since the MMC does run several criminal & legitimate businesses.
Dimitri is a single father. He needs a new nanny and since his business is around the clock he needs a live in nanny. Ava runs the nanny agency. For Dimitri he knows as soon as he meets Ava that she’s the one for him.
It takes Ava a little longer to feel for Dimitri because of past trauma and her worries about her missing foster sister.
The book tells their journey to love. How she finds her foster sister, his relationship with his father and how that all ties to the ending. The story is brief and concise. It also includes 9 chapters of the novella, King of the Hunt. This novella continues the story of Cadence (Ava’s friend) and what happens to her.
Borrowed this from Kindle Unlimited. Moving on to the next book in the series.
December 31, 2025
I read the first book and I vaguely remembered it. All I know is that it was lukewarm, light mafia everything moving fast. This one was the same.
✅insta love/attraction
✅age gap
✅nanny / single dad
✅light mafia/ fast paced
No virgin
🌶️🌶️
Things I liked
The blurb 🤣
I found the inner monologues intriguing but the dialogues btw the characters were weird.
The hunt idea but it didn’t last long -> to be honest everything was rushed in this book.
Things I didn’t like:
Clearly the FMC doesn’t take time to think or ask questions…
She is 25 he is in his forties… but yes s3x phone was ok as soon as they met (and they both commented how professional they were…)
He is a widow, the daughter Anastasia is 3, so clearly hasn’t been a widow for long… No question regarding the dead wife? Or the fact that he can move on so easily?
Also MFC is Ava
Daughter is Anna
And then another Anastasia popped later in the book
Can it be more similar?
Not sure how I feel about the MMC referring to himself as an « alpha » 🙄
It’s the end of the year and I needed something light and easy
✅insta love/attraction
✅age gap
✅nanny / single dad
✅light mafia/ fast paced
No virgin
🌶️🌶️
Things I liked
The blurb 🤣
I found the inner monologues intriguing but the dialogues btw the characters were weird.
The hunt idea but it didn’t last long -> to be honest everything was rushed in this book.
Things I didn’t like:
Clearly the FMC doesn’t take time to think or ask questions…
She is 25 he is in his forties… but yes s3x phone was ok as soon as they met (and they both commented how professional they were…)
He is a widow, the daughter Anastasia is 3, so clearly hasn’t been a widow for long… No question regarding the dead wife? Or the fact that he can move on so easily?
Also MFC is Ava
Daughter is Anna
And then another Anastasia popped later in the book
Can it be more similar?
Not sure how I feel about the MMC referring to himself as an « alpha » 🙄
It’s the end of the year and I needed something light and easy
September 28, 2025
Main story was a bit long, the short one was emotional
Dimitri and Ava’s story is complicated, so many people I often had to go back to see who or what was going on. It wasn’t my favourite in this series.
We then get a short story with Cadence (Ava’s friend and fellow foster child) and Zane. This one was emotional, the opening up by both of them was both traumatic and healing.
Neither story had cheating
Dimitri and Ava’s story is complicated, so many people I often had to go back to see who or what was going on. It wasn’t my favourite in this series.
We then get a short story with Cadence (Ava’s friend and fellow foster child) and Zane. This one was emotional, the opening up by both of them was both traumatic and healing.
Neither story had cheating
September 24, 2025
The third story in the Kings of Las Vegas, another engrossing story in this series. The story follows Dimitri Ivanov and Ava Tantor. They meet when Ava is searching for her missing friend, Cassie Miller. Dimitri, needing a nanny for his three-year-old daughter Anastasia, hires Ava for the role. Their journey is filled with drama, suspense, unexpected twists, and romance, and I particularly enjoyed seeing them achieve their happy ending. I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 25, 2025
Always enjoy these quick mafia romance reads
September 1, 2025
why are these books unfinished 😭😭😭😭
January 26, 2026
Loved this one!
Wasn't expecting to like this as much as I did. Can't wait to read the next book. Betting Ryker won't disappoint.
Wasn't expecting to like this as much as I did. Can't wait to read the next book. Betting Ryker won't disappoint.
Did Not Finish
April 14, 2026they knew each other for like 2 seconds and were somehow in love already wtf was this
August 28, 2025
2 stars and a DNF @ 60%.
These guys are "mafia"? I know tougher bus drivers! Idk I just didn't get ANY tough guy with a sweet side from this. Just sweet sappy. I LOATHE the female MC and her clingy weakness in this book. Valid reasons why she has issues but yuck, the clingy weak woman, I cannot.
Overall, I killed this one after the whole "hunt" dealio....I just didn't get it and the whole guy trying to psychologically "reset" people was just too much for me. It made very little sense to THIS book. Perhaps another series it would have made sense.
Anyhoo....yep, big ol' thumbs down for this one.
These guys are "mafia"? I know tougher bus drivers! Idk I just didn't get ANY tough guy with a sweet side from this. Just sweet sappy. I LOATHE the female MC and her clingy weakness in this book. Valid reasons why she has issues but yuck, the clingy weak woman, I cannot.
Overall, I killed this one after the whole "hunt" dealio....I just didn't get it and the whole guy trying to psychologically "reset" people was just too much for me. It made very little sense to THIS book. Perhaps another series it would have made sense.
Anyhoo....yep, big ol' thumbs down for this one.
April 29, 2026
PSA: I am not great at articulating my thoughts. This is just my opinion. Love what you love!
Actual Rating: 3.5 Stars
Another book that I wanted to like and while it wasn't awful, it wasn't mind blowing either. The plot had a lot of promise yet there was something off in the execution. There was more focus on insta-love (again) and there was a strange "Hunt" that was written into the novel as some kind of therapy for disadvantage girls. I didn't care for it. I think both main characters were interesting and had some fleshed out background trauma. I loved the interaction with Dimitri and his daughter. I wish there had been more of that. Overall, decent story with new scenes and tropes.
Previous Reviews:
King of Depravity - 3.5 Stars
King of Desire - 4.5 Stars
~*~*~*~Character Reviews~*~*~*~
The FMC:
Ava Tantor - 3.5 Stars
I really wanted to give Ava a higher ranking but I feel like the author really didn't give her that many real moments. Of course, we have her tragic past, which added this darker element to her, but a lot more could've been done with it. Again, I really hate to beat a dead horse with my insta-love complaints but someone with Ava's trauma would really likely not do what she did, given her history of freezing up and other issues. Of course, Dimitri accommodated her anxiety but not sure Ava's experience represents the majority of women in her position.
The MMC:
Dimitri Ivanov - 3.5 Stars
Another difficult decision with Dimitri. I wanted to like him. He has a lot of great qualities that would have made him a dark horse to be one of the best guys in the group yet 'the Hunt' aspect really turned me off. The insta-love turned me off. I liked that he wasn't really a bad guy and he loved his daughter. He was a great dad but as an overall character who has something interesting to add, he was a smidge lacking. Just more of the same cookie-cutter trope-filled male that Andersen writes.
The Antagonist(s):
The bad guy in this book and the one set up for future books is Dimirti's Father. With no real name suggested in this book (we know his name is Ivan Ivanov from previous novels), he is only referred to as 'Otets' which is 'father' in Russian. Revealed as the one who was behind all the attacks on the Kincaids and Smiths, we see that Dimitri has no love lost for his father who has been holding his sisters hostage. Hoping to stop his son from making moves against him, he goes after Ava but manages to get away for stories to come.
The Supporting Cast:
All the usual characters have had or will be having their own books so I am not going to touch on them. The supporting character that stands out the most is definitely Cadence. While he name was 'Cassie' in the preview chapters, her story is the same. She seems feisty and interesting, wishing to have seen her get a better happily-ever-after, but she really did like Zade and was 'in love' after knowing him for one week.
~*~*~*~The Little Details~*~*~*~
The Plot:
Ava finds herself working at a Temp agency once she is able to get her life together. Excelling at her job, she is tasked with finding a permanent, live-in nanny for one Dimitri Ivanov. Finding him interesting and mysterious, her interest in men has always been distant after a bad experience as a teenager. When she finds out, however, that her best friend Cadence was last seen at Ivanov's sex clubs, she ops to fill in the nanny position so she can get closer to the Bratva leader.
This plot had a lot of potential. I did enjoy the outline of it and while some of it was executed the whole "Hunt" aspect was just so strange and out of left field. I didn't really understand why this was a good thing, what the purpose was or how any of it made sense. Yes yes, Andersen gives some weird neurobiology thing but it felt like writing BS just for the sake of having some kind of contest like this. That really put me off. Surprise, there was also insta-love as this man just saw Ava and had made the decision she was his and he would marry her *le sigh.*
The Spice:
There was some good spice in this one. I liked how the author approached things considering . The way Dimitri approaches things really did give her her power back, letting her hold the reigns. I could appreciate it, having something other than Andersen's favoured shower sex scenes. I give this a 4/5 peppers.
Emotional Damage:
There wasn't really any emotional damage for me. I didn't cry reading this one. Of course, there is a pretty serious and dark secret that Ava has, which shaped her character. It was good to have her more fleshed out, childhood trauma will do that to you. I did find Cadence and her life to be pretty sad over all but she did feel surface level.
Reading Experience:
This was an okay reading experience. I really found Dimitri interesting and wished we could have seen more with him being a bad ass. He seems like a super different character in this book compared to previous ones but I guess that was intentional. I am always hopeful until the insta-love happens though and once the ILYs come out I get a little less invested.
Book Length & Pacing:
This was a bit of a surprise to me because I went in thinking the book was 248 pages but it was actually only 176. The remaining pages were a novella with Cadence/Zane's story. Things with Ava/Dimitri ended pretty quickly. The pacing was slow though, I felt like not a lot happened, other than interpersonal development for Ava and sex scenes.
Miscellaneous Information:
There is a novella at the end of the book called "King of the Hunt." Maybe it isn't a novella since it was just added in the back of the book. It was about 53 pages long. Focusing on Cadence's side of the story after she goes missing, we see her participating in "The Hunt" and how Zane was able to win her over the other men. I really did like Cadence's spunk and to learn more about her involvement with Hank/Ava. Just don't really like how someone like Cadence would fall in love with a man she has known for a well (surprise).
~*~*~*~Questions to Consider~*~*~*~
Would I Buy the Book?
Maybe. As per usual, only if it was in a box set and for a reasonable price. Likely on big sale or used.
Would I Re-Read the Book?
Maybe. So far the books are okay but not catching my attention enough to really consider it.
Will I Continue the Series?
Yes. I am going to continue with all of Andersen's mafia romances.
Actual Rating: 3.5 Stars
Another book that I wanted to like and while it wasn't awful, it wasn't mind blowing either. The plot had a lot of promise yet there was something off in the execution. There was more focus on insta-love (again) and there was a strange "Hunt" that was written into the novel as some kind of therapy for disadvantage girls. I didn't care for it. I think both main characters were interesting and had some fleshed out background trauma. I loved the interaction with Dimitri and his daughter. I wish there had been more of that. Overall, decent story with new scenes and tropes.
Previous Reviews:
King of Depravity - 3.5 Stars
King of Desire - 4.5 Stars
~*~*~*~Character Reviews~*~*~*~
The FMC:
Ava Tantor - 3.5 Stars
I really wanted to give Ava a higher ranking but I feel like the author really didn't give her that many real moments. Of course, we have her tragic past, which added this darker element to her, but a lot more could've been done with it. Again, I really hate to beat a dead horse with my insta-love complaints but someone with Ava's trauma would really likely not do what she did, given her history of freezing up and other issues. Of course, Dimitri accommodated her anxiety but not sure Ava's experience represents the majority of women in her position.
The MMC:
Dimitri Ivanov - 3.5 Stars
Another difficult decision with Dimitri. I wanted to like him. He has a lot of great qualities that would have made him a dark horse to be one of the best guys in the group yet 'the Hunt' aspect really turned me off. The insta-love turned me off. I liked that he wasn't really a bad guy and he loved his daughter. He was a great dad but as an overall character who has something interesting to add, he was a smidge lacking. Just more of the same cookie-cutter trope-filled male that Andersen writes.
The Antagonist(s):
The bad guy in this book and the one set up for future books is Dimirti's Father. With no real name suggested in this book (we know his name is Ivan Ivanov from previous novels), he is only referred to as 'Otets' which is 'father' in Russian. Revealed as the one who was behind all the attacks on the Kincaids and Smiths, we see that Dimitri has no love lost for his father who has been holding his sisters hostage. Hoping to stop his son from making moves against him, he goes after Ava but manages to get away for stories to come.
The Supporting Cast:
All the usual characters have had or will be having their own books so I am not going to touch on them. The supporting character that stands out the most is definitely Cadence. While he name was 'Cassie' in the preview chapters, her story is the same. She seems feisty and interesting, wishing to have seen her get a better happily-ever-after, but she really did like Zade and was 'in love' after knowing him for one week.
~*~*~*~The Little Details~*~*~*~
The Plot:
Ava finds herself working at a Temp agency once she is able to get her life together. Excelling at her job, she is tasked with finding a permanent, live-in nanny for one Dimitri Ivanov. Finding him interesting and mysterious, her interest in men has always been distant after a bad experience as a teenager. When she finds out, however, that her best friend Cadence was last seen at Ivanov's sex clubs, she ops to fill in the nanny position so she can get closer to the Bratva leader.
This plot had a lot of potential. I did enjoy the outline of it and while some of it was executed the whole "Hunt" aspect was just so strange and out of left field. I didn't really understand why this was a good thing, what the purpose was or how any of it made sense. Yes yes, Andersen gives some weird neurobiology thing but it felt like writing BS just for the sake of having some kind of contest like this. That really put me off. Surprise, there was also insta-love as this man just saw Ava and had made the decision she was his and he would marry her *le sigh.*
The Spice:
There was some good spice in this one. I liked how the author approached things considering . The way Dimitri approaches things really did give her her power back, letting her hold the reigns. I could appreciate it, having something other than Andersen's favoured shower sex scenes. I give this a 4/5 peppers.
Emotional Damage:
There wasn't really any emotional damage for me. I didn't cry reading this one. Of course, there is a pretty serious and dark secret that Ava has, which shaped her character. It was good to have her more fleshed out, childhood trauma will do that to you. I did find Cadence and her life to be pretty sad over all but she did feel surface level.
Reading Experience:
This was an okay reading experience. I really found Dimitri interesting and wished we could have seen more with him being a bad ass. He seems like a super different character in this book compared to previous ones but I guess that was intentional. I am always hopeful until the insta-love happens though and once the ILYs come out I get a little less invested.
Book Length & Pacing:
This was a bit of a surprise to me because I went in thinking the book was 248 pages but it was actually only 176. The remaining pages were a novella with Cadence/Zane's story. Things with Ava/Dimitri ended pretty quickly. The pacing was slow though, I felt like not a lot happened, other than interpersonal development for Ava and sex scenes.
Miscellaneous Information:
There is a novella at the end of the book called "King of the Hunt." Maybe it isn't a novella since it was just added in the back of the book. It was about 53 pages long. Focusing on Cadence's side of the story after she goes missing, we see her participating in "The Hunt" and how Zane was able to win her over the other men. I really did like Cadence's spunk and to learn more about her involvement with Hank/Ava. Just don't really like how someone like Cadence would fall in love with a man she has known for a well (surprise).
~*~*~*~Questions to Consider~*~*~*~
Would I Buy the Book?
Maybe. As per usual, only if it was in a box set and for a reasonable price. Likely on big sale or used.
Would I Re-Read the Book?
Maybe. So far the books are okay but not catching my attention enough to really consider it.
Will I Continue the Series?
Yes. I am going to continue with all of Andersen's mafia romances.
"Because while patience is a virtue of mine, so is commitment. And I don’t want to wait another second to make us a family for real."
August 20, 2025
In the Vegas world of mafia nightmares, this isn’t your typical “fight the enemy” book. It’s all about caring and trust. This is a dynamic story—Ava meets Dmitri (Bratva VIP) and his young daughter while trying to find her close friend (like a sister) while working through trauma of her youth. Dmitri is tormented as well yet he is kind and loving, but protective of Ava.
All of the heart-warming and angsty issues play out well and lead to THE HUNT. That is the peak of the whole search for her sister Cassie. It’s a must-read if you love a “gray” mafia plot with lots of passion.
I received a free copy of the book and leaving this review voluntarily.
All of the heart-warming and angsty issues play out well and lead to THE HUNT. That is the peak of the whole search for her sister Cassie. It’s a must-read if you love a “gray” mafia plot with lots of passion.
I received a free copy of the book and leaving this review voluntarily.
October 11, 2025
IDK what happened but the 1st book in this series was AMAZING. The 2nd one was kinda so-so. And this 3rd one was just so awful. First, she's a recovering rape victim so they have the world's most boring sex b/c she has issues so the sex in here was recovery sex. Nothing more boring than that. EXCEPT - there is something more boring. a toddler in bed with you! I mean, I just can't. This book was such a colossal disappointment after the 1st one in the series where they have like totally f*(K#D up sex and you're like - what did I just read but you can't put it down. This one, I could definitely put down. I DNF'd it after the 2nd baby in bed between them scene. So gross.
August 21, 2025
Having devoured every installment of this series, I’ve been utterly captivated. Andresen’s tapestry of intrigue, romance, and personal redemption truly shines, and she surpasses expectations with this latest story.
I’m blown away by how she crafts her dark, morally gray male leads. We shouldn’t like them, yet we do—because she writes them so well that we see beyond their questionable choices, often rooted in complicated family obligations.
In this story, we meet Ava Tantor, who grew up in the foster system. Her only real family is Cassie, her sister in every way but blood. When Cassie disappears without a word, Ava’s mission becomes clear: she has to find her.
Ava and Cassie’s bond is rock solid. although they are opposites in every way, Cassie is strong, bold, fierce, and she is who she is regardless of what people think, while Ava is gentle, reserved, carrying silent scars but brimming with inner strength. Watching them stand up for each other, despite their contrasting natures? Absolutely amazing.
Then there’s Dimitri Ivanov—a brooding billionaire in need of a nanny for his daughter, Anna. I wasn’t impressed with him in a previous book; he seemed cold and calculating. But wow, was I wrong. Dimitri is complex, shaped by an abusive father, yet he has a kind, caring heart. When he meets Ava, he just knows she’s the one. He’s supportive, respectful, understanding—aware of her struggles and patient with her boundaries. He gently breaks down Ava’s insecurities, making her feel safe. Their chemistry? Off the charts. The love Dimitri shows both Ava and Anna is deep, tender, and fierce—the kind of love we all hope to find.
But when Ava discovers Dimitri might be connected to Cassie’s disappearance, doubt creeps in. Despite feeling betrayed, Dimitri doesn’t give up. He trusts his heart, fights for Ava, and proves that their connection is real.
King of Malice is so much more than a love story. It’s about survival, healing, recovery, and the unbreakable connections that go beyond blood ties. It delves into the dangerous world Dimitri and his counterparts inhabit, all wrapped up in the thrilling, emotionally charged vibe that makes this mafia series unforgettable.
This book left me breathless—in the best way possible.
Andresen gives us a delightful bonus - King of the Game - Cassie’s Story
Cassie finds herself thrust into a brutal game where survival is the only goal, and the victor claims her as the prize. The stakes are high, emotions raw, and the intensity unrelenting. Fortunately, it’s Zane who emerges victorious.
With patience and care, Zane slowly breaks through Cassie’s defenses. His empathy becomes the key to unlocking the walls she’s built around herself. As Cassie confronts her buried pain, Zane stands by her side, offering not just support, but understanding born from his own scars.
Together, they embark on a journey of healing, each helping the other mend the fractures within. In the spaces where loneliness once resided, they find connection. It becomes clear that they weren’t just missing something in their lives—they were missing each other. Their bond grows, not out of necessity, but from a profound, undeniable truth: they are perfect for one another.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
I’m blown away by how she crafts her dark, morally gray male leads. We shouldn’t like them, yet we do—because she writes them so well that we see beyond their questionable choices, often rooted in complicated family obligations.
In this story, we meet Ava Tantor, who grew up in the foster system. Her only real family is Cassie, her sister in every way but blood. When Cassie disappears without a word, Ava’s mission becomes clear: she has to find her.
Ava and Cassie’s bond is rock solid. although they are opposites in every way, Cassie is strong, bold, fierce, and she is who she is regardless of what people think, while Ava is gentle, reserved, carrying silent scars but brimming with inner strength. Watching them stand up for each other, despite their contrasting natures? Absolutely amazing.
Then there’s Dimitri Ivanov—a brooding billionaire in need of a nanny for his daughter, Anna. I wasn’t impressed with him in a previous book; he seemed cold and calculating. But wow, was I wrong. Dimitri is complex, shaped by an abusive father, yet he has a kind, caring heart. When he meets Ava, he just knows she’s the one. He’s supportive, respectful, understanding—aware of her struggles and patient with her boundaries. He gently breaks down Ava’s insecurities, making her feel safe. Their chemistry? Off the charts. The love Dimitri shows both Ava and Anna is deep, tender, and fierce—the kind of love we all hope to find.
But when Ava discovers Dimitri might be connected to Cassie’s disappearance, doubt creeps in. Despite feeling betrayed, Dimitri doesn’t give up. He trusts his heart, fights for Ava, and proves that their connection is real.
King of Malice is so much more than a love story. It’s about survival, healing, recovery, and the unbreakable connections that go beyond blood ties. It delves into the dangerous world Dimitri and his counterparts inhabit, all wrapped up in the thrilling, emotionally charged vibe that makes this mafia series unforgettable.
This book left me breathless—in the best way possible.
Andresen gives us a delightful bonus - King of the Game - Cassie’s Story
Cassie finds herself thrust into a brutal game where survival is the only goal, and the victor claims her as the prize. The stakes are high, emotions raw, and the intensity unrelenting. Fortunately, it’s Zane who emerges victorious.
With patience and care, Zane slowly breaks through Cassie’s defenses. His empathy becomes the key to unlocking the walls she’s built around herself. As Cassie confronts her buried pain, Zane stands by her side, offering not just support, but understanding born from his own scars.
Together, they embark on a journey of healing, each helping the other mend the fractures within. In the spaces where loneliness once resided, they find connection. It becomes clear that they weren’t just missing something in their lives—they were missing each other. Their bond grows, not out of necessity, but from a profound, undeniable truth: they are perfect for one another.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 8, 2025
King of Malice: Dark Bratva Steamy Romance
(Kings of Las Vegas Book 3)
by Tammy Andresen
Ava and Cassie…sister’s due to circumstance they have always had each others back…now Cassie has disappeared (even though she has done this before) and Ava, worried about Cassie has found out where she was last seen. Of course it had to be at the club owned by the Bratva, the one were women were sold (or were they?) Ava is in so many ways brave yet naive and she is about to put herself in a situation that may be very dangerous.
Dimitri Ivanov, the head of the Bratva in Vegas. He has a bad reputation, the Smiths and Kincaids expect that they will have to go after him and his men. What they don’t know the real Dimitri Ivanov. In order to keep his daughter and her nanny, who just happens to be Ava….he is going to have to come clean. In the meantime, he is fighting his emotions and his attraction to Ava and his father. Who is the real villian, Dimitri or his father?
I loved this book! I was glued to the pages, never think you know what will happen and who is really the bad guy! You will be surprised when you find out more about Dimitri and his work….He is not his father’s son, he has been living a lie, keeping secrets and soon he is going to have to come clean.
Along with all the suspense, there is a second short story line running through Dimitri and Ava’s story. But we aren’t left hanging….and that’s all I’m going to say!
The suspense runs high, Dimitri and Ava are very drawn to each other and then there are the Smiths and Kincaid’s. With a whole bunch of stuff about to go down in Vegas I’m and telling you get this book!
(Kings of Las Vegas Book 3)
by Tammy Andresen
Ava and Cassie…sister’s due to circumstance they have always had each others back…now Cassie has disappeared (even though she has done this before) and Ava, worried about Cassie has found out where she was last seen. Of course it had to be at the club owned by the Bratva, the one were women were sold (or were they?) Ava is in so many ways brave yet naive and she is about to put herself in a situation that may be very dangerous.
Dimitri Ivanov, the head of the Bratva in Vegas. He has a bad reputation, the Smiths and Kincaids expect that they will have to go after him and his men. What they don’t know the real Dimitri Ivanov. In order to keep his daughter and her nanny, who just happens to be Ava….he is going to have to come clean. In the meantime, he is fighting his emotions and his attraction to Ava and his father. Who is the real villian, Dimitri or his father?
I loved this book! I was glued to the pages, never think you know what will happen and who is really the bad guy! You will be surprised when you find out more about Dimitri and his work….He is not his father’s son, he has been living a lie, keeping secrets and soon he is going to have to come clean.
Along with all the suspense, there is a second short story line running through Dimitri and Ava’s story. But we aren’t left hanging….and that’s all I’m going to say!
The suspense runs high, Dimitri and Ava are very drawn to each other and then there are the Smiths and Kincaid’s. With a whole bunch of stuff about to go down in Vegas I’m and telling you get this book!
August 12, 2025
I’ve been loyal to Tammy Andresen’s historical romances for years, so when she announced a Contemporary Dark Mafia series, I clutched my pearls. Me? Read modern mafia romance? But Tammy’s storytelling magic lured me in, and now I’m hooked. I finish one book and immediately start stalking the next release date.
In this installment, Ava Tantor is searching for her missing best friend Cassie Miller, the only family (not by blood) she’s ever had. Enter Dimitri Ivanov, the brooding billionaire who needs a nanny for his daughter Anna. I met him in the previous book and was not a fan. Why was this tyrant getting his own story? Spoiler: I was wrong. So wrong.
Ava’s strength and kindness shine through her trauma, and Dimitri? Turns out he’s got layers. His bond with Anna melted me, and his slow-burn romance with Ava, respectful, tender, and spicy, had me swooning. Tammy delivers fast-paced drama, heart-melting romance, and characters you’ll root for. By the end, I was waving a “Team Dimitri” banner and wondering how I ever doubted him. I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Bonus HEA Story - King of the Game
I was so happy to find this bonus story at the end of Ava & Dimitri's book! Cassie, Ava's foster sister, will get a HEA with Zane, who needs someone just like her. Zane will teach Cassie to let go of her anger (she had a trauma filled past but her story is also uplifting) & Zane will be able to make positive changes in his life - they are a saving grace for each other - this was a perfect short story.
In this installment, Ava Tantor is searching for her missing best friend Cassie Miller, the only family (not by blood) she’s ever had. Enter Dimitri Ivanov, the brooding billionaire who needs a nanny for his daughter Anna. I met him in the previous book and was not a fan. Why was this tyrant getting his own story? Spoiler: I was wrong. So wrong.
Ava’s strength and kindness shine through her trauma, and Dimitri? Turns out he’s got layers. His bond with Anna melted me, and his slow-burn romance with Ava, respectful, tender, and spicy, had me swooning. Tammy delivers fast-paced drama, heart-melting romance, and characters you’ll root for. By the end, I was waving a “Team Dimitri” banner and wondering how I ever doubted him. I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Bonus HEA Story - King of the Game
I was so happy to find this bonus story at the end of Ava & Dimitri's book! Cassie, Ava's foster sister, will get a HEA with Zane, who needs someone just like her. Zane will teach Cassie to let go of her anger (she had a trauma filled past but her story is also uplifting) & Zane will be able to make positive changes in his life - they are a saving grace for each other - this was a perfect short story.
August 9, 2025
Just when I thought this series and its spin-offs couldn’t get any better, Ms. Andresen goes and blows that thought process out of the water. King of Malice is so much more than a Bratva Romance. Yes, Dimitri may be the head of the Bratva, but as we soon learn, there is so much more to him. He is a single father who would do anything for his little girl. Including finding the perfect Nanny that fits her needs as well as his chaotic lifestyle. But when he reaches out to the agency to find that perfect nanny, little does he know the danger he is bringing into his and his daughter’s world. That danger is in the form of Ava, the woman in charge of finding him that perfect Nanny. A danger to both his and his daughter’s hearts as well as his empire.
Ava has been looking for her best friend/sister via foster care who has gone missing. She has just learned that her sister was last seen at the Bratva’s whorehouse. So when the head of the Bratva calls needing their services, she goes in herself as his daughter’s nanny in order to find clues to find her friend. But what happens when Dimitri learns the truth? Does he turn on Ava? Can she convince him to help her and if so, will he ever trust her again?
The storyline is full of emotional intrigue, heartaches, heartfelt moments, dangers, betrayals and so much more. It has two amazing main characters and one little girl that will totally steal your heart. Outstanding read that this reader can’t recommend enough.
2 Thumbs Up and 5+ Stars
Ava has been looking for her best friend/sister via foster care who has gone missing. She has just learned that her sister was last seen at the Bratva’s whorehouse. So when the head of the Bratva calls needing their services, she goes in herself as his daughter’s nanny in order to find clues to find her friend. But what happens when Dimitri learns the truth? Does he turn on Ava? Can she convince him to help her and if so, will he ever trust her again?
The storyline is full of emotional intrigue, heartaches, heartfelt moments, dangers, betrayals and so much more. It has two amazing main characters and one little girl that will totally steal your heart. Outstanding read that this reader can’t recommend enough.
2 Thumbs Up and 5+ Stars
August 24, 2025
Dimitri Ivanov has been the evil enemy of the Kincaid’s and consequently the Smiths in the books leading up to this one but as we all know sometimes things may not be as we think. In this book, Dimitri is proven to be a loving, caring father of his sweet daughter Anastasia “Anna” and a patient, knowing and caring lover to Ava Tantor. Dimitri’s character is what makes this book interesting, intriguing and blazing hot. Ava is a young woman struggling with tragic events from her past but has created a fulfilling career at a temp hiring agency placing nannies for hire and her new client is Dimitri. Ava is concerned over the disappearance of her best friend and former foster sister, Cassie, and the disappearance may be linked to Dimitri. Ava decides the best way to get answers is to make herself Dimitri’s new nanny and that’s when things heat up rather fast.
This book has all the heat and danger associated with a Tammy Andresen dark Bratva romance but I felt this one to rush through the storyline with Az Ava and Dimitri meeting and within a week they are living together and getting married. The scenes with The Game and with his father felt as though parts were left out and the wedding abbreviated too. It’s still an intriguing story, centering around the assault Ava suffered while in foster care and Dimitri’s problems with his father, I just don’t think it was as in-depth in details and emotionally as the previous books.
I received an Advance Review Copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This book has all the heat and danger associated with a Tammy Andresen dark Bratva romance but I felt this one to rush through the storyline with Az Ava and Dimitri meeting and within a week they are living together and getting married. The scenes with The Game and with his father felt as though parts were left out and the wedding abbreviated too. It’s still an intriguing story, centering around the assault Ava suffered while in foster care and Dimitri’s problems with his father, I just don’t think it was as in-depth in details and emotionally as the previous books.
I received an Advance Review Copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 8, 2025
Better than the last book but the wonky timeline with the other two books makes it sloppy again.
This one isn’t about one of the Smith brothers, it’s a deviation to Dmitri Ivanov, the “enemy” in the previous books. Only now you learn he’s always been a good guy🙄 it’s his horrible father doing all the messed up stuff. Dmitri is a savior of women, not an exploiter. But I’m sorry, in book 2 when Honeyeh stupidly went to him he could clearly see she was NOT down for this whole auction thing, just incredibly desperate. And instead of telling her to think on it he forces her hand practically to sign the contract. He’s proud of the fact all the women working in his brothel are willingly there, but with Honeyeh it was “too bad, you signed the contract” as she passes out from fear. So trying to paint Dmitri as a do-gooder for women in the mafia world now is hard to believe.
And as I started with, the timeline is just dumb. This author needs to edit more and produce more quality storytelling.
So in book 1, Killian spies on Dmitri and learns Dmitri is protective of the nanny of his daughter. So you discover that Dmitri has a thing for the nanny.
In book 2, Tristan has Killian watching the nanny and daughter while he goes to threaten Dmitri to get Honeyeh back from her stupid idea of selling her virginity. He uses the threat of Killian watching them to make it happen. Then at the end of book 2, semi-peace has been reached between the Smiths and Dmitri as Ryker is arranged to marry one of Dmitri’s two sisters.
But as we start book 3, Dmitri is just meeting the nanny (Ava) and so I assumed this was set in the past a bit (since it’s diverging from the Smith brothers I assumed it went backwards and would then come up to “present day” we saw at the end of book 2. But shortly after meeting Ava, Dmitri is talking to Tristan and some of the other Vegas men about the planned wedding and his father’s evils. So how in book 3 is he still just meeting Ava, the nanny he falls in love with, when in books 1 and 2 she was already there. Makes absolutely no sense.
As far as this story goes between Ava and Dmitri - it’s ok. Definitely better than Honeyeh and Tristan, not as good as Chloe and Killian. But I can’t give it another star because of the mess in timeline. It really bothers me that the author isn’t even trying to ensure she keeps her storyline straight.
This one isn’t about one of the Smith brothers, it’s a deviation to Dmitri Ivanov, the “enemy” in the previous books. Only now you learn he’s always been a good guy🙄 it’s his horrible father doing all the messed up stuff. Dmitri is a savior of women, not an exploiter. But I’m sorry, in book 2 when Honeyeh stupidly went to him he could clearly see she was NOT down for this whole auction thing, just incredibly desperate. And instead of telling her to think on it he forces her hand practically to sign the contract. He’s proud of the fact all the women working in his brothel are willingly there, but with Honeyeh it was “too bad, you signed the contract” as she passes out from fear. So trying to paint Dmitri as a do-gooder for women in the mafia world now is hard to believe.
And as I started with, the timeline is just dumb. This author needs to edit more and produce more quality storytelling.
So in book 1, Killian spies on Dmitri and learns Dmitri is protective of the nanny of his daughter. So you discover that Dmitri has a thing for the nanny.
In book 2, Tristan has Killian watching the nanny and daughter while he goes to threaten Dmitri to get Honeyeh back from her stupid idea of selling her virginity. He uses the threat of Killian watching them to make it happen. Then at the end of book 2, semi-peace has been reached between the Smiths and Dmitri as Ryker is arranged to marry one of Dmitri’s two sisters.
But as we start book 3, Dmitri is just meeting the nanny (Ava) and so I assumed this was set in the past a bit (since it’s diverging from the Smith brothers I assumed it went backwards and would then come up to “present day” we saw at the end of book 2. But shortly after meeting Ava, Dmitri is talking to Tristan and some of the other Vegas men about the planned wedding and his father’s evils. So how in book 3 is he still just meeting Ava, the nanny he falls in love with, when in books 1 and 2 she was already there. Makes absolutely no sense.
As far as this story goes between Ava and Dmitri - it’s ok. Definitely better than Honeyeh and Tristan, not as good as Chloe and Killian. But I can’t give it another star because of the mess in timeline. It really bothers me that the author isn’t even trying to ensure she keeps her storyline straight.
April 24, 2026
Tammy Andresen really said “you want a dangerous man who ruins everyone but protects ONE girl?” — and delivered a whole masterpiece.
The male lead? Absolutely ruthless. Cold, calculating, feared by everyone… but the moment it comes to her, something cracks. Not softly. Not gently. It’s intense, possessive, almost terrifying how deeply he feels but refuses to show it. The tension??? UNREAL.
And the FMC—she’s not just some weak girl caught in his world. She’s hurting, struggling, and trying to survive in a place that constantly pushes her down. You FEEL her pain. Every emotional scene hits like a punch, especially when she starts breaking… and he notices.
Their dynamic is EVERYTHING:
He doesn’t do love… but he can’t let her go
He’s cruel to the world… but softens in tiny, rare moments for her
She fears him… yet somehow becomes his weakness
That push and pull?? Literal addiction.
And the drama?? HELLO???
Secrets, betrayal, power games, emotional breakdowns — it’s nonstop. There were moments I was like “GIRL RUN” and others where I was like “NOOO STAY HE LOVES YOU (in a toxic way but still 😭)”
The possessiveness in this book is next level. Not cute. Not light. It’s dark, consuming, “you’re mine even if it destroys us both” energy—and honestly?? I ate it up.
The romance is messy, painful, and intense. Not perfect. Not healthy. But deeply emotional and addictive.
⭐ Final Rating: 4.5/5
If you love:
Dark, powerful MMCs
Emotional suffering + angst
Possessive, obsessive romance
Beauty & the Beast vibes but darker
The male lead? Absolutely ruthless. Cold, calculating, feared by everyone… but the moment it comes to her, something cracks. Not softly. Not gently. It’s intense, possessive, almost terrifying how deeply he feels but refuses to show it. The tension??? UNREAL.
And the FMC—she’s not just some weak girl caught in his world. She’s hurting, struggling, and trying to survive in a place that constantly pushes her down. You FEEL her pain. Every emotional scene hits like a punch, especially when she starts breaking… and he notices.
Their dynamic is EVERYTHING:
He doesn’t do love… but he can’t let her go
He’s cruel to the world… but softens in tiny, rare moments for her
She fears him… yet somehow becomes his weakness
That push and pull?? Literal addiction.
And the drama?? HELLO???
Secrets, betrayal, power games, emotional breakdowns — it’s nonstop. There were moments I was like “GIRL RUN” and others where I was like “NOOO STAY HE LOVES YOU (in a toxic way but still 😭)”
The possessiveness in this book is next level. Not cute. Not light. It’s dark, consuming, “you’re mine even if it destroys us both” energy—and honestly?? I ate it up.
The romance is messy, painful, and intense. Not perfect. Not healthy. But deeply emotional and addictive.
⭐ Final Rating: 4.5/5
If you love:
Dark, powerful MMCs
Emotional suffering + angst
Possessive, obsessive romance
Beauty & the Beast vibes but darker
September 4, 2025
Ava and Dimitri
Love this series. Ava experienced trauma while in the foster system. She has a good friend who has disappeared and Ava suspects she’s in one of Dimitri’s clubs. Dimitri is Bratva and had made some appearances in previous books in this series. He meets Ava when he hires her to find a nanny for his daughter. Ava takes on the job to figure out a way to find her friend.
Dimitri isn’t exactly who Ava thinks he is. He’s Bratva and has done some very dark things but he also wants Ava and his daughter to live in the light. Hes trying to rescue his sisters from his father. He’s very protective and possessive of Ava. He understands her trauma and takes his time showing her he can be trusted. Ava just wants to be safe. She’s fearful of everything, especially men, and she panics easily. I really hoped that she would learn to be more resilient but that hasn’t happened yet in this book.
No 3rd act breakup (yay!) but there’s betrayal, danger, death and questionable decisions.
Characters from previous books appear. I especially enjoyed seeing Killian again as well as the other Smiths and Kincaids. The plot is tight and although there’s no cliffhanger, there’ll be overlap with Ryker’s story next.
Also love the short story in the end that explains a side plot with Cadence (Ava’s friend) and her man Zane. It’s short and rounds out the main story nicely.
Love this series. Ava experienced trauma while in the foster system. She has a good friend who has disappeared and Ava suspects she’s in one of Dimitri’s clubs. Dimitri is Bratva and had made some appearances in previous books in this series. He meets Ava when he hires her to find a nanny for his daughter. Ava takes on the job to figure out a way to find her friend.
Dimitri isn’t exactly who Ava thinks he is. He’s Bratva and has done some very dark things but he also wants Ava and his daughter to live in the light. Hes trying to rescue his sisters from his father. He’s very protective and possessive of Ava. He understands her trauma and takes his time showing her he can be trusted. Ava just wants to be safe. She’s fearful of everything, especially men, and she panics easily. I really hoped that she would learn to be more resilient but that hasn’t happened yet in this book.
No 3rd act breakup (yay!) but there’s betrayal, danger, death and questionable decisions.
Characters from previous books appear. I especially enjoyed seeing Killian again as well as the other Smiths and Kincaids. The plot is tight and although there’s no cliffhanger, there’ll be overlap with Ryker’s story next.
Also love the short story in the end that explains a side plot with Cadence (Ava’s friend) and her man Zane. It’s short and rounds out the main story nicely.
March 28, 2026
Ava and Cadence had such a hard upbringing. Going from foster home to foster home shaped how each of them dealt with their past.
For Ava she always felt she needed to get Cadence out of trouble, For Cadence she felt she needed to protect Ava. This caused them both not able to move on from their past.
When Ava meets Dimitri she was trying to find him a nanny. She feels an instant attraction. When she finds out he has something to do with Cadences disappearance she becomes his nanny to get answers. Dimitri falls for Ava instantly and is giving her time to get use to him before he makes her his wife and the mother of his daughter. When he finds out she was spying on him to get information on Cadence he is upset but fZorgives her quickly.
Unknowingly his trusted employee betrays him and takes Ava to the Hunt which endangers her. There we find out what Cadence is hiding to do and that Dimitri needs to fight his father to keep Ava and his sisters safe.
I do kind of wish that we got more of a background as to what happened to Ava and Cadence. Especially when we find out that Ava had been raped and Cadence saved her by stabbing the foster father, but what we don't know is what happened after that? Did she kill him, how did she get away with it? Also when Cadence is with Zane where do her fears come from? What happened in the past that she fears? So much could have been explored with these characters but were left hanging wondering what went on in the past.
For Ava she always felt she needed to get Cadence out of trouble, For Cadence she felt she needed to protect Ava. This caused them both not able to move on from their past.
When Ava meets Dimitri she was trying to find him a nanny. She feels an instant attraction. When she finds out he has something to do with Cadences disappearance she becomes his nanny to get answers. Dimitri falls for Ava instantly and is giving her time to get use to him before he makes her his wife and the mother of his daughter. When he finds out she was spying on him to get information on Cadence he is upset but fZorgives her quickly.
Unknowingly his trusted employee betrays him and takes Ava to the Hunt which endangers her. There we find out what Cadence is hiding to do and that Dimitri needs to fight his father to keep Ava and his sisters safe.
I do kind of wish that we got more of a background as to what happened to Ava and Cadence. Especially when we find out that Ava had been raped and Cadence saved her by stabbing the foster father, but what we don't know is what happened after that? Did she kill him, how did she get away with it? Also when Cadence is with Zane where do her fears come from? What happened in the past that she fears? So much could have been explored with these characters but were left hanging wondering what went on in the past.
February 1, 2026
I’m around a quarter into this book and I’m going to DNF. One of the character’s names completely changed randomly a few chapters in?? And the timeline should be either prior to, or around the same time of the first book in the series, but it’s after the first two books? Dimitri had very clearly already met, hired, and developed a relationship with Ava prior to the first book of this series, but in this book he’s only just meeting her and it takes place after the first two books ???
I was enjoying this series and was able to look past the grammatical errors, poor scene details and extremely rushed relationships, but changing a name partially into the book and completely messing up the timeline has fully taken me out of it. I understand it can be a lot to keep track of as an author, but some basic notes could’ve prevented such a massive mistake. I don’t think I’ll be finishing the rest of the series.
The author also only included trigger warnings in the first book. This book should definitely have at least a few. That alone is massively negligent considering that this is kind of a dark romance and SA is a major trigger for people.
I don’t usually write reviews, but I’m disappointed.
I was enjoying this series and was able to look past the grammatical errors, poor scene details and extremely rushed relationships, but changing a name partially into the book and completely messing up the timeline has fully taken me out of it. I understand it can be a lot to keep track of as an author, but some basic notes could’ve prevented such a massive mistake. I don’t think I’ll be finishing the rest of the series.
The author also only included trigger warnings in the first book. This book should definitely have at least a few. That alone is massively negligent considering that this is kind of a dark romance and SA is a major trigger for people.
I don’t usually write reviews, but I’m disappointed.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 20, 2026
I enjoyed Dimitri and Ava’s book. These two fit together well and the way Ava took care of Anna was so sweet. Dimitri holding his girls in his arms and taking them to bed was so tender for such a tough man. I loved that Dimitri was like yeah I’m a criminal but I still have morals. He doesn’t hurt women and children and refused to be part of that going against his big bad daddy.
Dimitri cares for the women in his life. Ava, Anna, and his sisters. Ava was an interesting FMC. Her back story of foster care, a traumatic rape, and how she still taught to go to school, get a degree, and be a semi functional human being is no feat! Her relationship with Cassie had me side eyeing. I agreed with Cassie’s take of Ava could be overbearing sometimes and Cassie just needed to learn and accept the consequences of her actions.
The Hunt was a crazy concept and how Dimitri’s dad lured Ava out there was kind of unbelievable and so gullible on Ava’s part. I thought she was supposed to be scared of men? She had never really met Trent up until that point and just said yeah I guess I’ll go with you. Hell no I would have called Dimitri immediately and if didn’t answer, I would not leave that fucking house.
Dimitri cares for the women in his life. Ava, Anna, and his sisters. Ava was an interesting FMC. Her back story of foster care, a traumatic rape, and how she still taught to go to school, get a degree, and be a semi functional human being is no feat! Her relationship with Cassie had me side eyeing. I agreed with Cassie’s take of Ava could be overbearing sometimes and Cassie just needed to learn and accept the consequences of her actions.
The Hunt was a crazy concept and how Dimitri’s dad lured Ava out there was kind of unbelievable and so gullible on Ava’s part. I thought she was supposed to be scared of men? She had never really met Trent up until that point and just said yeah I guess I’ll go with you. Hell no I would have called Dimitri immediately and if didn’t answer, I would not leave that fucking house.
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