“He’s entered my bloodstream, and eventually, I’ll have to bleed him out. I don’t know if there’ll be much of me left when I’m done.”
Two years ago, Alex betrayed the man he loved to escape his past and become someone he could be proud of, a fast-rising detective in Senna’s Organised Crime Unit. When his sister, Halle, is accused of murder, a mysterious figure offers Alex a find the source of a deadly new drug tearing through the streets and she walks free.
There’s just one problem—Alex can’t do it alone. The only person who can help him is Rowan Vasilyev, the man he once loved and betrayed.
Rowan has spent two years clawing his way back from ruin. Alex’s betrayal nearly destroyed him, but he is determined to reclaim his spot as the future Head of The Snake. When Alex reappears, pleading for help, Rowan sees his chance to finally get back into his family’s good graces and reclaim his spot as the heir to The Snake. Yet the more they’re pulled together, the more dangerous old feelings become. He trusted Alex once—and it nearly cost him everything. Can he do it again?
As old feelings resurface and dangerous secrets unravel, both Alex and Rowan must protect their hearts and their lives if they want to survive the brutal world of Senna and their own warring hearts.
Betrayal, revenge, and desire collide in a deadly game where no one is safe.
I love a good MM book and this was okay. I thought Rowan and Alex's relationship was cute. You got Rowan the protector and Alex who has a bleeding heart. I was expecting a little bit more revenge/ anger from Rowan towards Alex. But it seemed they fairly quickly coexisted. (This is a second chance romance book. )
The plot is self, was confusing but interesting. Hear me out..The description talks about Halle needing help and Alex having to go back to Rowan for some assist. Along with some sort of revenge plot in the mix, since Alex sent Rowan to jail.. Halle plot was maybe 30-40% of the book and was quickly resolved. The rest was dealing with Rowan future and the mystery on who was trying to come for The Snakes..It did leave me intrigued on trying to figure out who it was. It definitely left me wanting to read the next book.
I want to thank BookSirens and Anysah Grace. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Omg I'm absolutely in love with Rowan and Alex. I randomly picked this up and didn’t even know the author, but now I'm so glad I did. This book had the perfect balance of plot and smut, their relationship development was very well done, and the world-building was super interesting. I was completely hooked from start to finish. Once again, I’m a total sucker for a good second-chance romance — and the author absolutely nailed it.
Definitely, one of my favorite reads of 2025! And now, I need the next brother's book ugh.
This newbie author writes like a veteran, the thriller romance is intensely plotted with gripping action that keeps the book swift paced throughout. Her buildup of the dangers and terror of unknown drugs spreading in the fictitious city of Senna hept my heart pounding throughout. The mafia empires of Scarlet Ravens And Snakes divide and conquer the city and MM romance angle is central focal point.
“ He’s entered my bloodstream, and eventually, I’ll have to bleed him out. I don’t know if they’ll be much of me left when I’m done.”
Rowan Vasilyev and Alexander Kimura are at the center of it all, the world burning around them. They not only have to fight the yearning, aching love, but lies, betrayals and suspicions of all those around them. Some scenes had me clenching my gut but the twist and unraveling brought down the house.
“ I open my mouth to take it back, to tell him I’m being silly, but before I can, I feel the sharp sting of metal ripping through me, cutting me open until it rests in my gut. When I look down, crimson blooms on my white shirt, spilling out between us and onto the sheets.”
I liked her profound lines she pens and I did dm her letting her know how terrific of a writer she is.
I'm so looking forward to reading more if her books.
*I got this book for free, but this view is my own*
Alex, a cop, needs to work with his ex, a mafia member, to solve a mystery and save the only family he's ever known.
This book was a ride. At first, I didn't know what to think about it, then I hated it, and then I loved it.
First things first, if you like mystery and tension, this book doesn't disappoint. It made me keep reading through the night. My personal favourite was the ticking clock that Alex had to work against to solve a mystery to save his sister. The characters were also nicely portrayed. At first I loved Alex and hated Rowan. Then I liked Rowan and sort of liked Alex.
The problem I had with Alex near the end was that I could see no character development. He stayed the same way from the beginning to end. The only time I thought there was development was when he stood up to Rowan's brothers.
Rowan. My sweet misguided angel, where do I start? When he was first introduced, I didn't think much. Later in the story, he annoyed me because he was this cliché of alpha man. If the author wanted a more swoon-worthy love interest, he could've showed, in his family scenes, that he was more relatable by dreading seeing them and why.
When he confessed his feelings, he was cold and then suddenly raw. Now, I think this could've worked if he was a hardened mafia dude with a gooey centre that few but Alex knew of.
In the end, I liked him, not for his characteristics, but for the things he does.
This read may have not been for me, but if you like possessive dark romance, give this book a shot.
“You were and will always be her bitch” I’m sorry I’m sorry! I know I should start talking about Rowan and Alex but I just can’t get over this line 😭😭
Rowan telling his father that he was just an aristocratic trophy for his mother warmed my heart 🤣 don’t get me wrong I know both parents were evil but their mother was even more ruthless and powerful.
One thing I loved about this book was the fact that the head of the snake was their mother, a woman, this book ate with that!
Rowan and Alex 🥹 stop it! They were so freaking cute ugh. I loved everything about them, and thank goodness Rowan didn’t hate him for so long because I was losing my mind over that lowkey. I wanted him to forgive Alex so badly.
“I may lead The Snake but you lead me” I started bawling 😭 Rowan made such a statement in front of everyone at his own initiation. Oh Alex you are so loved. They were so in love and I loved reading every second of it all.
I love love a romance story but you give me that with a very good plot? I’m game. This was so so good. I loved the whole concept of Senna and The Snake. And I loved Rowan and Alex 🥹
Oh and I feel like it was pretty obvious that their father was the one behind haze 🤣 I mean come on, that man was absolutely cruel, and a man like that would definitely loathe having a woman as the head of their family. Rowan said it all, he truly was Zaina’s bitch 🤣
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I don’t even know why but this didnt hit the way I hoped it would 😩 maybe the writing wasn’t for me; this just didnt make me _feel_. The storyline is good but I just didnt connect with the characters and I think I wanted more from the scenes where they were together -I just wasn’t invested. Also Rowan was a bit too soft -considering he is the head of the snakes. However I liked how dedicated they are to each other, I just wanted more oomph from them. I think I would have liked Xander’s book more but sadly based on this I probably will not continue with the series.
“Better the devil you know.” “I don’t know you, Rowan.” A laugh escapes me—short, humourless. That’s the furthest thing from the truth because sometimes, I think he’s the only one who truly knows me. Well, the version of me before it all went to hell. Young, arrogant, with a severe god complex. He’d studied me well and despite me knowing who he was, I never tried very hard to hide myself from him. At first, it felt like a game I could win until I realised I was losing and there was no way to catch up. I was falling hard and fast, doing and feeling things I’d never felt before.
“You’re mine, Alex. Mine to tear apart. Mine to ruin. Mine to kill. You belong to me.” - Ineeded more of this Rowan! 🔥
✦ 𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬 - • second chance romance • mm mafia love • ex-lovers to lovers • betrayal + guilt • emotional past • forced to work together • protective love
✦ 𝐌𝐲 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 - Omg this book was pure madness in the best way. From the very beginning, I was hooked like crazy. Alex and Rowan had such deep history, full of pain, love, and betrayal…and still, every time they were together, the chemistry was fire. Rowan was all attitude and hurt and I LOVED him sm, and Alex, that soft guilt in his eyes…ugh he made me feel everything. The way they looked at each other like they still cared but were scared to say it...my heart couldn’t take it. The mafia world, the danger, the secrets everything was just so intense and addictive. It was emotional, dark, spicy, and sooo so good. If you love emotional chaos, a little bit of danger, and ex-lovers who can’t stop loving each other no matter how hard they try this book is calling your name 😍 Thank you so much book sirens & author for this beautiful ARC.
These Shattered Memories is a second chance mafia romance. True Enemies to Lovers where the betrayal is founded and the progress to get past it strains on both of them.
The plot did not take a backseat to the spice. This story was a slow burn build, with tension, desire and trust issues.
Alex is a cop who came from trauma with nothing but his sister by his side. He will do anything for her and now he has to swallow his pride and reach out to the one person who should have killed him for his betrayal 2 years ago.
Rowan is the heir to The Snake. A mafia king in his own right but got caught up in his feelings with an undercover agent. He's protected Alex from his family, but that doesn't mean he's forgiven him.
Alex and Rowan are end game and how they work through their shit with no third act breakup was refreshing! Rowan controls the underworld but gives in when it comes to Alex.
I received an advance review copy from Booksirens for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Alex betrayed Rowan in the worst possible way. As an undercover cop, Alex’s job was to bring down Rowan, heir apparent to being the Head of the Snake. Now he needs Rowan’s help to save his sister. Will Rowan kill him or kiss him? Not to give much away but we know it will eventually be the kiss.
Lots of blood, twisty betrayals, and spice kept my interest. I expected this to be a more “mafia” based story. The hunt for a deadly drug supplier should of been the main focus but the romance was the heart of the story. I did figure out who the bad guy was but was still surprised at how it played out.
It’s hard to do a review justice when most of the story can’t be revealed. I’ll just say I enjoyed it, really liked Alex and Rowan, and am curious about Xander’s story.
I picked this book randomly via an ARC, and it turned out to be a real hidden treasure! I read this book in just 2 days and was totally hooked from start to finish. The story is incredibly strong and kept me engaged throughout. The characters, especially Alex and Rowan, are so well-developed and their journey is both heartwarming and thrilling. The author has done an amazing job weaving together a narrative that is both engaging and emotionally resonant.
I absolutely loved the dynamic between Alex and Rowan; their story is one that will stay with me for a long time. The world-building is rich and immersive, making it easy to get lost in the pages. I can't wait for book two to see where the story goes next. Highly recommend this to anyone looking for a captivating read!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I loved reading this book it was definitely amazing and one I couldn't put down, the story was written well and the characters were sensational. This story was action-packed, betrayal, lies, secrets, heartache, mafia, drugs, passion, pain, pleasure, intense passion, and maybe even love. Alexander Kimura, became a Detective and he had to betrayed the one person that made him feel safe he left him and felt horrible and guilty. Rowan Vasilyev went to prison by the one person he thought he could trust. Rowan wants to be at the top the head of The Snake and find the person selling drugs that are killing people in his territory. Alex is worried about his sister Halle, he went to see Rowan, and asked for help. Can these two men find the love they once had.
4.5 out of 5 - These Shattered Memories by Anysah Grace
This story pulled me in right away with its gripping plot and emotional depth. There was one chapter where I literally had to pause and go, “Wait… that actually just happened?!” It kept me guessing in the best way.
Alex and Rowan completely stole my heart. The dynamic between a police officer and a mafia heir was so well done, and their connection had me smiling and softly awwing more than once. I adored how their relationship developed through tension, trust, and tenderness.
The only reason it’s not a full 5 stars is because I personally wish it had been longer, I wasn’t ready to leave their world just yet! Still, a beautifully written MM romance with heart, danger, and swoony moments that hit all the right spots.
A romance filled with adrenaline, secrets and loyalty throughout the whole story. I admit, when it came to finding out who did the crime: I thought it was a completely different person than who was exposed towards the end!!
This story did a good job at misleading and made me assume they were the perpetuator: it just seem too much of a coincidence everytime they were seen and it mentioned at a major scene within the story so it lead me to believe it and get mad whenever Rowan relied on them. Now I know better and shouldn't judge a character from molds I'm used to reading from other stories.
I really enjoyed this book and definitely recommend to read for that amazing plot twist!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
ARC Review 3.75 stars Format: Kindle Pub Date: June 18th, 2025 Genre: Dark Romance/Mafia Romance This is an MM Mafia romance with some suspense and second chance. I really wanted more mafia stuff but it was a pretty good read but I do think it could be better. I did like the romance between Alex and Rowan and there was spicy moments. There are conflict between different gangs and it’s mostly regarded around a drug called Haze which is killing people. Alex who is a detective gets involved in a mafia gang called The Snake because he is romantically involved with Rowan who is almost head of The Snake. I really mostly liked the ending, that’s where the stakes were high
ROWAN AND ALEX ROWAN AND ALEX ROWAN AND ALEX. nooooo because what do you meannnnnnnn … the secret tattoo? had my biting my arm. Alex is a sweet baby, he needs to be protected and ROWAN YOU SEXY AHH PSYCHO, he’s obsessed with Alex. I WOOOOFED multiple times. likeee yeahhh they might kill each other but thats foreplay 💁🏻♀️ Anysah knows how to write dark romance. I also read just between us and I sense she’ll blow up tbfh. she’s a very talented writer who knows how to keep the suspense and move the romance and plot w balanced spice that is well written, well placed, impactful and full of depth. Anysah you’re INCREDIBLE. never stop writing 🖤❤️
I went in with no expectations other than liking the sound of the blurb.
What I read was a well written romantic suspense that I couldn't put down! The tension and slow burn between Rowan and Alex was perfect. There isn't a lot of spice but honestly this book didn't really need it. The intrigue of the plot kept you turning the page and I was invested! Not only in Rowan and Alex but also in the mystery of who was behind the drug that's killing people in their city.
Such a good read and I already can't wait for book 2!!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
A fabulous MM read with great world building, captivating characters and a plot line full of mystery and intrigue. Alex is reunited with Rowan, the heir to the Head of the Snake, who he betrayed, and asks for his help. The book was full of emotion and tension between them but their relationship slowly grows into love. A very well written story and I'm so looking forward to the next book.
I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I enjoyed this book immensely. The characters were well written and developed. The plot was intriguing and exciting. World building was most excellent. All in all a really good read a d great start to series.
Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Wow! What an exceptional read! My first book by this author and I am so impressed. The build up, the plot, the relationship development, were all completely spot on, making this a thoroughly enjoyable read that i couldn't put down! Definitely adding to my fav author list and can't wait for the next book! Highly recommend I received a free arc copy and this is my honest review
I was so ready to jump into this book looking for a series to consume me. Unfortunately I wasn’t connecting with Rowan or Alex neither held that all consuming relationship for me. He was a weak head of the Snakes I didn’t get the strong dominant vibe I was looking for.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This book is a really good read. From the start, it gets its hooks into you and you just want to know everything. The chemistry between the MMCand FMC was hot!!
This is a dark mafia romance that pulls you into the world of danger, secrets and intense moments that you get addicted to.
This is a rollercoaster of emotional chaos, but worth every page. I will be recommending to many
Mafia Romance. Alex is a detective working undercover. His first job he arrests Rowan, although he fell in love with him, he has him arrested. Two years later Alex needs his help, Rowan at first turns him down, till he realizes he also need his help for the same reason. Will Love prevail or will Rowan tell him to take a hike? Well written. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This was my first read from this author and I am floored by how much I enjoyed this dark romance. The mystifying beauty of the characters is something you'll remember long after finished the last page.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This was my first time reading a book where both was by 2 males, & i've got to say I loved this book. The relationship between Alex and rowan was beautiful. I can't wait to read more by Anysah Grace.. I would recommend this book to anyone..