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Bratva Past

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~Editor's Pick~

For a long time, Isaac Flynn has had his eye on Lucy Rue. She was a beautiful woman, and he knew it was only a matter of time before someone else saw the gem that she was. But, he had a past, one that meant he needed to stay well clear of her.

From the moment Isaac arrived in town, Lucy had the biggest crush on him, but at the time she was just a teenager. Now, she was a full-grown woman, and having dealt with loss, she knew how short life was. She finally worked up the courage to ask him on a date, and he was the perfect gentleman.

Isaac does not talk about his past. There is no past life. He has no pictures.There is nothing. Nothing will come from his past because it is all dead. He was part of the Rostova Bratva, but when they killed his family, he turned on them. He was one of the most feared men in the whole of the Bratva, and now they’re all gone.

He wants to live a simple life. Find a wife, a woman he loves, and finally have the family his father always wanted for him. But first, he has to tell Lucy the truth. Once she knows, will she accept him, or will she walk away?

81 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 8, 2025

53 people are currently reading
25 people want to read

About the author

Sam Crescent

554 books5,522 followers
Sam Crescent is passionate about fiction. She loves a good erotic romance and so it only made sense for her to spread her wings and start writing. She began writing in 2009 and finally got that first acceptance in 2011 by Total-E-Bound.
She loved creating new characters and delving into the worlds that she creates. When she’s not panicking about a story or arguing with a character, she can be found in her kitchen creating all kinds of havoc. Like her stories the creations in the kitchen can be just as dubious but sometimes things turn out great.

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
Profile Image for Candace.
253 reviews4 followers
July 7, 2025
Bratva Past is a sweet novella based on Isaac Flynn and Lucy Rue. This is the first book I’ve read by this author and I found it to be a very quick read with minimal drama and the focus on the main characters and their relationship!

Lucy has had her eye on Flynn for a long time and she’s never had the courage to ask him out or let her attraction be known. She grew up in a quiet, small town and lost her parents in a car crash and she’s been managing the grief from that situation. She’s found her footing working at a care center and even visits on her days off because they feel like her family.

Flynn has a dark past in the Bratva and was trained to be a soldier and he was the best of the best. But his family paid the price of being involved with a Bratva and he turned his loyalty into revenge and decimated the Bratva. He moved to the same small town as Lucy and has finally got his footing as their mechanic in town and started being accepted after 10 years. He has money but he wants to earn his own way by working hard and be a part of a community.

This story revolves around Lucy getting the courage to ask Flynn out on a date and they begin the push and pull of discovering new things about each other and spending time together. Flynn doesn’t like to talk about his past and tells Lucy it’s dead. She knows there’s more to it but she likes him and who she sees daily. An incident occurs and it makes Lucy wonder again about his past and knows it was somewhat made of violence but can she let it go and trust him or does she need to take a step back?

While the story was sweet, I thought from the title you would honestly see more with his past and life from the Bratva. Some people may find it a little misleading. I did love Lucy and Flynn and the epilogue was sweet! I would’ve loved to see Lucy overcome her fear of cars on the page though since it’s mentioned various times.
Profile Image for Francesca.
362 reviews
October 20, 2025
Bratva Past - Sam Crescent

This is a beautiful and sweet story that shows how your past doesn't always define who you are in the present or future. Isaac Flynn was an elite trained soldier of the Rostova Bratva in his early years. Now he wants a quieter life and has moved to the quaint town of Saint Falls where he owns a mechanic shop and works hard every day to have a quieter and happy life. Isaac at forty five wants to settle down and find happiness, he wants to have a future with the beautiful and innocent Lucy Rue, but fears at twenty four she is too good, too innocent for someone with his dark past to become part of her life. However once Lucy gets some advice from her friends Marge, Harry and Betty who are totally awesome by the way, from the care home where she works, Lucy decides its time for her to go after what and who she wants and Issac is exactly who she wants forever with. This is a really enjoyable, well written, sweet read with some delicious moments of heat and also tenderness between Isaac and Lucy. There is some minor violence but not the level other Bratva romances have so can be enjoyed by all. Isaac and Lucy are both really likable characters and gave me everything that I hoped this story would. Happy Reading.
Please note that I was given an arc of this book for my honest review which is exactly what I have given.
5 out of 5 stars.
3,414 reviews29 followers
July 3, 2025
Can people change??
This is a lovely story about a guy called Isaac Flynn. He owns a mechanic shop in a beautiful little town where everyone knows everyone and usually there’s no trouble. But Isaac Flynn has a history and it’s one he doesn’t talk of and it’s one that has held him back from Getting involved with the most beautiful woman he’s ever seen Lucy Rue.
Lucy lost her parents not long ago to a car crash and to this day she struggles to get in a car when I say struggles I mean she walked everywhere. And she has had the biggest crush on Flynn for so long. She works in a nursing home where everyone absolutely adores her And two of the residents tell her to go take the bull by the horns and go for it. So she asks him out and is very surprised when he says yes.

This is an extremely sweet book about Lucy and Isaac Flynn getting closer and closer. They have a deep connection and chemistry. This book is about acceptance acceptance of who you are and of what you’ve been. This really is a beautiful read.

I received a free copy of this book via Evernight and am voluntarily leaving a review.
671 reviews6 followers
July 5, 2025
I loved how the author approached this story it was totally different than what she normally writes. Isaac comes from a past full of violence and survival and after he avenged his parents death he decides to pick up everything and move away and start over as a mechanic just like his father had wanted to do.
Lucy had lost her parents to an automobile accident and found herself alone in this small town that she grew up in. She made herself her own family by working in the old folks home and they all treated her like family as she did to them. Lucy had a crush on Isaac since he had moved to town and always found herself walking by his shop for a little bit of convo as she walked to work. Isaac found himself drawn to Lucy even though he knew his hands were dirty. Their relationship was so sweet to read as they came together. I loved reading their story and how things developed. This is a definite must read you won't be disappointed.
Profile Image for Lisa Bing.
6,381 reviews70 followers
July 7, 2025
This was quite the sweet story that follows Lucy and Isaac Flynn, or just Flynn as she calls him, to their HEA. He comes from a bratva past with incredibly dirty hands. However, with his parents murdered, he took care of 'business' and moved away to start over. Lucy noticed him when she was a teenager, and crushed hard on him. As she aged, though, that crush blew up into so much more. She lost her parents to a car accident when she was eighteen and now finds solace working in a nursing home where the patients treat her like family. When she finally gets the nerve to ask Flynn on a date, well, things unfold at a great pace for them. Expect to feel the longing between these two as they work their way to a fab and steamy HEA, complete with trust and acceptance. Good fun!
9,019 reviews66 followers
July 7, 2025
Isaac is a man with a past, a Bratva one, when his family was k*lled he took revenge and wiped his enemies out, now living the quiet life he finds himself drawn to Lucy Rue, but he can't make a move on her, shes innocent and half his age. Lucy Rue had crushed hard on Isaac for years and she had experienced loss she knows life to short and when her friend at the care home she works at persuade her to goes to ask him on a date, she does. but Isaac knows he has to be truthful about his past for a chance of a future, will she run? Well written slow burning steamy quick read, and age gap love, desires and more.

I received a free copy of this book via Evernight and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Danee.
4,930 reviews
July 7, 2025
What a wonderful story we are taken along in the lives of Isaac and Lucy. Both do not know that they have feelings for each other. She has been in love with him for years and he also for her but thinks that because of the age difference he is not good for her and certainly not if she knows what he actually is, the Bratva. When she takes the plunge and asks him out he is a bit hesitant because what will she say or think when she finds out that he used to work for the Bratva until his parents were murdered? A wonderful novel that is worth reading.





I received an Advance Reader copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
1,876 reviews24 followers
July 9, 2025
I loved this novella. It was such a sweet read. I have read other novels by this author and really enjoyed them. This novella did not disappoint. From the first chapter this novel reached across the pages and grabbed my heart and held on tight until the very last page. I loved Lucy and Flynn. I loved their chemistry. So so good! I loved watching them both lower their defenses and walls and fall in love. Once I started reading I did not want to stop and put this novel down. It was such a sweet read and left me with a smile on my face and a happy heart. Loved it! I can hardly wait to see what this author has coming next. So good!
Profile Image for Becky.
1,819 reviews5 followers
July 9, 2025
This is another fantastic book by Sam Crescent. It tells the story of two lonely people finding their happy ending together. Lucy is alone after the death of her parents and has developed strong bonds with the seniors she cares for. She has had an enormous crush on Isaac, a mechanic, since he moved to town ten years ago. Now Lucy is stepping out of her comfort zone and asking him on a date. But there is more to Isaac than meets the eye. I love this story and how Isaac and Lucy build a strong relationship. Excellent book; I'm looking forward to the next one!

I received a free copy of this book via Evernight and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Brooke Torrey.
566 reviews1 follower
July 16, 2025
Tours book was refreshingly fun to read. I loved the storyline it was different, original and page-turning. I thought the characters were complex had heartbreaking and intriguing backstories and I just had to root for both of them. This book is a Bratva romance and does touch on sensitive topics but omg this book really had all the feels. I loved the aspect of it being a small town romance with a headstrong FMC and a Bratva man with a few secrets. My heart swooned for him and I loved how she brought out the light in his darkness. I can’t wait to see what comes next from this author!!!.

I received a free copy of this book via Evernight and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Curvy Girl Book Nerd   (Jen S).
4,744 reviews62 followers
August 5, 2025
Bratva past is a steamy, insta-love, OTT, age-gap, opposites-attract, curvy virgin gets her hunk mafia romance. Isaac is a 45-year-old hunky mechanic with a dangerous past. Lucy is a 24-year-old curvy caregiver. She has been crushing on Isaac since he came to town years ago. He has also been crushing on her but is worried she is too good for him. She finally works up the courage to ask him out and he accepts. What will she say when she finds out about his dangerous past? The chemistry between these two was hot and we got a great HEA after a bit of angst.

I received a free copy of this book via Evernight and am voluntarily leaving a review.
672 reviews4 followers
January 3, 2026
Ok

This one was ok . it took me about 2 weeks to actually read it from start to finish . this again , is not like her normal books . its not hot sexy or heavy .
It has a ok storyline , have to admit there were parts I found completely not needed for the story but ...
I like the writing from past Sam books . this is the second book I have read that I was disappointed with because her writing style has changed .
I have 3 new books that I bought from her that I am going to read next ...I'm hoping for the best .

This book is good if you are reading for a storyline and sweet , not a story line and hot hot hot
Profile Image for Jan.
2,116 reviews15 followers
July 2, 2025
Isaac Flynn loves his quiet life in Saint Falls. He sees Lucy every day, walking to and from her job. When she finally approaches him as asks him out, he can’t resist. But she doesn’t know about his dark past. Lucy loves her walks and her job. It is so peaceful in Saint Falls. She even gets up the courage to ask out Isaac. These two have a great connection. His past wasn’t too big of a deal and honestly as long as the past stayed gone, their lives will be great. It’s a quick read.

I received a free copy of this book via Evernight and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for ObsessiveReader.
1,335 reviews
July 4, 2025
Isaac Flynn is a former member of a Bratva. He has made a new life for himself after the death of his family at the hands of the Bratva. He has lived an unassuming life since wiping them out.

Lucy has had a crush on him since he came to town ten years before. She finally gets up the nerve to let Isaac know what she feels for him. Their relationship is pretty smooth and the only disruption is when he finally admits his past to her after he stepped in and wiped the floor with some disruptive men in the town bar.

Short story. More sweet than anything.
5,155 reviews30 followers
July 7, 2025
Isaac has been watching Lucy Rue for some time, she is beautiful but probably thinks he is too old for her. Lucy has had a crush on Isaac since her came to town when she was still a teenager. She finally gets brave and asks him out.

Isaac has a secret he used to work for the Bratva until they took at his parents and got rid of them all. Will Lucy see him as a monster?

This is a sweet romance, Isaac is a big teddy bear for his girl.

I received a free copy of this book via Evernight and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for laura.lovesreading.
1,387 reviews6 followers
July 7, 2025
This book tells the story of Lucy and Isaac and their way to their happy ever after.
A super sweet story with the nicest and loving FMC, who is struggling with past trauma and who has a crush on Isaac for the longest time.
Our MMC, has a past, who left him feeling "too dirty" and is so sweet to her.
Together they heal, bond and create a deep connection.
Chemistry, spice, acceptance, wonderful characters, amazing storytelling are creating this captivating book.

I received a free copy of this book via Evernight and am voluntarily leaving a review.
496 reviews
July 7, 2025
A second chance at life, Isaac has moved to a small town, escaping a dark past, to become a mechanic. Lucy, who lost her parents, has had a thing for Isaac since he came to town. She’s caught his eye, but he also wants to protect her from his past. Soon they become an item, and it’s been a long time coming. Their chemistry is unmistakable as they delve into one another. It’s a sweet story of acceptance, with a golden retriever MMC and an FMC who can also hold her own.

I received a free copy of this book via Evernight and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Trixie.
5,256 reviews
July 9, 2025
I absolutely loved the story! I could really see both sides—the complicated past of the male main character (MMC) and the joyful life of the female main character (FMC) before everything changed. The message I took away from it was powerful: even though their pasts were so different, what truly matters is their present. They really love each other, and the most important thing is the future they are going to create together.

I received a free copy of this book via Evernight and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Sam.
629 reviews
July 9, 2025
So Sweet!

Isaac is starting over new from his past involved with the Bratva and looking forward to finding peace after dealing with much loss. Lucy has a big crush on the hot and mysterious Isaac when he moves to town.

Their mutual attraction is steamy and a page turner! But will Lucy be able to accept Isaac as he is now knowing about his past?

Overall a very sweet and romantic story. Loved these two characters together!

I received a free copy of this book via Evernight and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for La'Jacinth.
1,963 reviews
July 10, 2025
I think this is the best one Sam has written. Not because of the Bratva aspect but that it was more about letting go and seeking what the heart desires.

Isaac wanted a simple, and quiet life after his time with the Rostova Bratva and the deadly finality of them after the death of parents. His father told him one day youwill find her and fall hard and he did. He fell for Lucy, a woman 20yrs is junio and alone like him but her life was nothing like his but both shred the grief of losing parent through no fault of thier own.

Love created, and finalzed when the past is revealed.
1,468 reviews11 followers
July 1, 2025
Age Gap Romance

Isaac had wanted Lucy for a while but due to his past and age never thought she would be interested in him!

Lucy taking some advice from well meaning friends decided it was time to make the first move.

This is a fast paced insta-love read. Our hero has a past he had left behind but would Lucy still want him when he told her the truth?

A hot romantic read with a wonderful HEA.

I received a free copy of this book via Evernight and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Angela.
3,606 reviews16 followers
July 6, 2025
Sometimes your future comes to you in the most unexpected, and quiet of ways. And other times, it takes the experience from an older generation to boost your courage and confront the one you want. Isaac and Lucy both have pasts that have shaped how they see themselves, the worlds around them, and their trust of others. But a hopeful moment is the opportunity to have a new direction, only if they are willing to try.
160 reviews1 follower
July 9, 2025
surprisingly sweet

For a book with the title Bratva in it, this book is surprising. It’s surprisingly sweet but also only has one remotely violent scene in it. Typically there is a lot more fighting etc. in books like this one. I want to say more but I also don’t want to spoil anything. This is probably one of my top 10 Sam Crescent books which is a lovely change as several of the more recent ones have felt like they were ghost written or something.
Profile Image for Unrulyreadr Reviews.
1,150 reviews20 followers
July 3, 2025
Well it was a short and sweet little read. It felt as if I was missing something. I felt like I was reading a prologue. This story was cute, but nothing to really get me excited about. No drama, the spice was about a spicy as a black pepper. It isn't the usual Sam Crescent book I am use to from her.

I received a free copy of this book via Evernight and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Andra Shaw.
1,336 reviews11 followers
July 4, 2025
I usually really like Sam Crescent's books. However Bratva Past is the first time I find one of his books to be just okay. The storyline is a little slow. It's not a bad story, it is just not a very compelling one, and does not contain the intrigue that I have come to expect from this author.

I received a free copy of this book via Evernight and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Rhonda.
3,792 reviews63 followers
July 10, 2025
This was a wonderful story. Isaac lost so much and after he "avenged" his losses, he leaves and starts a new life. Lucy has crushed on Isaac but he won't go there because of the age difference and his past. He fought his attraction to her for awhile but you know he's going to give in. I loved watching their relationship grow. Another great story.
Profile Image for Tina Howell.
727 reviews2 followers
July 6, 2025
This is a great book! Isaac has a past which causes him not to takes steps and move forward. Lucy suffered trauma in her past and has a crust on Isaac. This book is a feel good read and I really enjoyed it.
744 reviews
July 10, 2025
Lucy and Isaac, both have been watching the other for years. Eventually Lucy asks him out. A very slow burn romance. In fact quite different from most of Ms Crescent’s bratva/mafia stories.
Some spice, secrets are revealed and a HEA epilogue
Profile Image for Amy Jones.
1,332 reviews5 followers
July 2, 2025
Great Story!!
Loved reading Bratva Past, it captured my interest immediately. Loved how Lucy and Isaac’s story started and loved the ending!!
Profile Image for GKP2460 .
4,432 reviews73 followers
July 2, 2025
Bratva Past is a fast-paced, age gap read. Isaac and Lucy's story is short and sweet with all kinds of secrets from the past. Will the secrets destroy them or make them stronger?
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews

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