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Lozhkin Bratva #2
Wicked Refusal
What's the man who doesn't love you anymore, or the man who never did?
Three months ago, I made a deal.
One night with a Russian mobster for a million dollars.
It was supposed to solve everything.
It did not.
Now, I'm trapped in a nightmare with my abusive ex.
My son thinks I'm a liar.
And I'm pregnant with a baby whose father wants nothing to do with me.
All because I had to
Tell Yulian Lozhkin the truth and watch my ex put a gun to my child's head...?
Or lie to the only man I've ever loved and keep my family alive?
I chose the lie.
I chose survival.
I chose my son.
But now, the past is catching up to all of us.
Yulian's enemies are coming.
My ex won't let us go.
And I'm running out of time to protect the people I love.
They say the devil you know is better than the devil you don't.
But what happens when both devils want to destroy you?
What happens when the only person who can save you...
is the one whose heart you just broke?
WICKED REFUSAL is Book 2 of the Lozhkin Bratva duet. Yulian and Mia’s story begins in Book 1, WICKED PROPOSAL.
Three months ago, I made a deal.
One night with a Russian mobster for a million dollars.
It was supposed to solve everything.
It did not.
Now, I'm trapped in a nightmare with my abusive ex.
My son thinks I'm a liar.
And I'm pregnant with a baby whose father wants nothing to do with me.
All because I had to
Tell Yulian Lozhkin the truth and watch my ex put a gun to my child's head...?
Or lie to the only man I've ever loved and keep my family alive?
I chose the lie.
I chose survival.
I chose my son.
But now, the past is catching up to all of us.
Yulian's enemies are coming.
My ex won't let us go.
And I'm running out of time to protect the people I love.
They say the devil you know is better than the devil you don't.
But what happens when both devils want to destroy you?
What happens when the only person who can save you...
is the one whose heart you just broke?
WICKED REFUSAL is Book 2 of the Lozhkin Bratva duet. Yulian and Mia’s story begins in Book 1, WICKED PROPOSAL.
500 pages, Paperback
Published July 17, 2025
1132 people are currently reading
279 people want to read
About the author
Nicole Fox
204 books4,909 followersNicole Fox writes smart, sexy mafia romance novels. She is a crazy cat lady in her late 30s with a coffee addiction, an overactive imagination, and a husband who somehow puts up with her impulsive need to keep buying new plants for their house.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 195 reviews
July 20, 2025
Unfortunately, Wicked Refusal didn’t live up to the expectations set by the first book. The writing style felt different, less engaging, and overall, it lacked the sharpness that initially drew me into the series.
Mia was incredibly frustrating—so much so that I wanted to give her a slap. Her decisions often made little sense and grated on my nerves. As for Yulian and his Bratva, they came across as laughably ineffective. Despite all their posturing, they never managed to catch “the bad guy.” They just felt… useless.
The plot quickly descended into chaos. It veered off track, lost momentum, and the romance—a central element—completely faded. Random characters were introduced seemingly just to pad the word count, offering no real value to the story.
The narrative became bloated with pointless detail. It felt like wading through treacle: heavy, slow, and exhausting. By the final chapters, I was just trying to push through—I had lost all enjoyment.
This book was, sadly, a big disappointment after such a promising start to the series.
I received an ARC from Booksprout and this is my honest review.
Mia was incredibly frustrating—so much so that I wanted to give her a slap. Her decisions often made little sense and grated on my nerves. As for Yulian and his Bratva, they came across as laughably ineffective. Despite all their posturing, they never managed to catch “the bad guy.” They just felt… useless.
The plot quickly descended into chaos. It veered off track, lost momentum, and the romance—a central element—completely faded. Random characters were introduced seemingly just to pad the word count, offering no real value to the story.
The narrative became bloated with pointless detail. It felt like wading through treacle: heavy, slow, and exhausting. By the final chapters, I was just trying to push through—I had lost all enjoyment.
This book was, sadly, a big disappointment after such a promising start to the series.
I received an ARC from Booksprout and this is my honest review.
July 24, 2025
she's making decisions with pregnancy brain and the villain is an unkillable Looney Tunes character. mmc and his "cheese grater abs" were kind of just there (growing emotionally, we're told).
and yet, I will probably read another of this author's 1000+ page mob boss duets for the same reason I will probably eat an entire can of Pringles in one sitting: it's a pretty good time right up until the end
and yet, I will probably read another of this author's 1000+ page mob boss duets for the same reason I will probably eat an entire can of Pringles in one sitting: it's a pretty good time right up until the end
September 2, 2025
Emotional conclusion
Story: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Trope: fake engagement
Angst: 😱😱😱😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥
Pretty predictable, but still worth it! Nicole fox has the best character development in all her characters pull you in. I wish she would do other books about some of the other characters in her books, but she never does, lol. You just get so invested! This book was fast paced, well written, and had so many twists and turns. I can't wait to read her next story!
Story: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Trope: fake engagement
Angst: 😱😱😱😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥
Pretty predictable, but still worth it! Nicole fox has the best character development in all her characters pull you in. I wish she would do other books about some of the other characters in her books, but she never does, lol. You just get so invested! This book was fast paced, well written, and had so many twists and turns. I can't wait to read her next story!
September 25, 2025
Hated it.
Hated it so much.
I had to start skimming through from 40% as the main characters became so unbearable.
I have read 60+ dark romance books this year & this was BY FAR the worst. I cannot understand how it has such a good rating.
Were you all reading a different book?!
I have so many questions but my main ones:
1. WHY was our big bad bratva boss MMC so embarrassingly inept at keeping any of his bratva OR his girlfriend safe from anything ever?! It honestly became so cringe each time he said ‘no one touches what’s mine’ right after or right before someone attacked/kidnapped/threatened/abused/murdered someone close to him. He needs to find a new job.
2. WHY was Mia so dumb? Like so completely devoid of a single brain cell?! In the first book she was smart & brave if a little scatty but in this book she turned into a pathetic mess and made THE MOST bizzare choices. I’m not talking about her understandable struggle with panic attacks and her obvious trauma responses. But HOW can you keep going on about how you would do anything for your child but continually put him in harms way and not, in fact, do anything you can to keep him happy and safe. I have never seen 2 characters tell you SO SO SOOOOO many times that they are something they are clearly not.
3. WHY do you keep having wild sex sessions when everyone’s lives are threatened and your child is one breath away from being killed in crossfire or taken away by his dangerous, abusive father?! This isn’t unique to dark romance & is a fairly common theme across the genre but it really irritated me here. Like GUYS CAN WE PLEASE GET OUR HEADS IN THE GAME, YOUR PEOPLE ARE LITERALLY DROPPING LIKE FLIES OUT THERE WHILE YOU TRY OUT ALL THOSE SEXY NEW POSITIONS.
Ok I feel better.
I have actually never felt compelled to review anything on here before, despite being an avid reader & using the app for years. That is how much this book pissed me off.
PLEASE someone else tell me I’m not crazy. This was bad right?!
Hated it so much.
I had to start skimming through from 40% as the main characters became so unbearable.
I have read 60+ dark romance books this year & this was BY FAR the worst. I cannot understand how it has such a good rating.
Were you all reading a different book?!
I have so many questions but my main ones:
1. WHY was our big bad bratva boss MMC so embarrassingly inept at keeping any of his bratva OR his girlfriend safe from anything ever?! It honestly became so cringe each time he said ‘no one touches what’s mine’ right after or right before someone attacked/kidnapped/threatened/abused/murdered someone close to him. He needs to find a new job.
2. WHY was Mia so dumb? Like so completely devoid of a single brain cell?! In the first book she was smart & brave if a little scatty but in this book she turned into a pathetic mess and made THE MOST bizzare choices. I’m not talking about her understandable struggle with panic attacks and her obvious trauma responses. But HOW can you keep going on about how you would do anything for your child but continually put him in harms way and not, in fact, do anything you can to keep him happy and safe. I have never seen 2 characters tell you SO SO SOOOOO many times that they are something they are clearly not.
3. WHY do you keep having wild sex sessions when everyone’s lives are threatened and your child is one breath away from being killed in crossfire or taken away by his dangerous, abusive father?! This isn’t unique to dark romance & is a fairly common theme across the genre but it really irritated me here. Like GUYS CAN WE PLEASE GET OUR HEADS IN THE GAME, YOUR PEOPLE ARE LITERALLY DROPPING LIKE FLIES OUT THERE WHILE YOU TRY OUT ALL THOSE SEXY NEW POSITIONS.
Ok I feel better.
I have actually never felt compelled to review anything on here before, despite being an avid reader & using the app for years. That is how much this book pissed me off.
PLEASE someone else tell me I’m not crazy. This was bad right?!
October 28, 2025
The heroine, Mia, absolutely pissed me off in this novel. 😤 Her bleeding heart is beyond annoying and almost cost her everything! Yulian wants to deal with her abusive ex, but she keeps saying no because she doesn’t want anyone to get hurt — and even destroys evidence against him to protect him, which was just plain stupid. That choice leads to a custody battle she nearly loses, all because she wouldn’t let her lawyer do his job. She never reported her injuries, tried to claim abuse with no proof, and refused to let her son testify out of fear it might hurt him. I get the concern, but come on — losing custody is far worse!
Then her selfish sister sabotages her case, and Mia still won’t let her lawyer cross-examine her because she doesn’t want her sister to “get hurt.” 🤦♀️ Like, what?! She nearly loses everything because of her own choices. Thankfully, the ex’s true colors are exposed and she wins the custody battle, but even after all that, she still protects him because he’s her son’s father — a decision that nearly gets her son killed. Mia’s endless forgiveness and refusal to stand up for herself drove me insane. Her soft heart might be noble, but it almost destroyed her life. 💔
Then her selfish sister sabotages her case, and Mia still won’t let her lawyer cross-examine her because she doesn’t want her sister to “get hurt.” 🤦♀️ Like, what?! She nearly loses everything because of her own choices. Thankfully, the ex’s true colors are exposed and she wins the custody battle, but even after all that, she still protects him because he’s her son’s father — a decision that nearly gets her son killed. Mia’s endless forgiveness and refusal to stand up for herself drove me insane. Her soft heart might be noble, but it almost destroyed her life. 💔
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 28, 2025
2.75/5 ⭐️ mmmm glad it's over
Mmmmmm, this was more unhinged than the first, though I did finish it for scientific reasons 😂. It gave rage bait vibes throughout all 500 pages. I’ve never met a more aggravating fmc in my life, and that says a lot.
Mmmmmm, this was more unhinged than the first, though I did finish it for scientific reasons 😂. It gave rage bait vibes throughout all 500 pages. I’ve never met a more aggravating fmc in my life, and that says a lot.
July 19, 2025
⸻
⭐️⭐️⭐️ – Disappointed and Confused
I was really looking forward to the second book in this duet about the Lozhkin Bratva, but unfortunately, Wicked Refusal left me disappointed.
Where to even begin—was this the same author? The plot felt overly convoluted, and the romance that should have been the heart of the story got lost in the chaos. Mia and Yulian’s relationship was all over the place—constantly back and forth like a yo-yo—and it was hard to stay emotionally invested.
The conflict between Yulian and his adversary started to feel a bit farcical at times, and while I want to avoid spoilers, some plot points really stretched believability. At nearly 500 pages, this book felt overly long, and honestly, the story could have been told much more effectively at half the length.
This simply wasn’t Nicole Fox at her best. I finished the book feeling confused and more than a little speechless—not in a good way.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ – Disappointed and Confused
I was really looking forward to the second book in this duet about the Lozhkin Bratva, but unfortunately, Wicked Refusal left me disappointed.
Where to even begin—was this the same author? The plot felt overly convoluted, and the romance that should have been the heart of the story got lost in the chaos. Mia and Yulian’s relationship was all over the place—constantly back and forth like a yo-yo—and it was hard to stay emotionally invested.
The conflict between Yulian and his adversary started to feel a bit farcical at times, and while I want to avoid spoilers, some plot points really stretched believability. At nearly 500 pages, this book felt overly long, and honestly, the story could have been told much more effectively at half the length.
This simply wasn’t Nicole Fox at her best. I finished the book feeling confused and more than a little speechless—not in a good way.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 28, 2025
Continuity Errors made me scream
Hmmm I liked the book, but didn’t love it because of too many continuity errors and the big baddies being nothing in the end. The ending was anticlimactic as the big horrid baddies turned out to be nothing special.
The spice was 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️, so if spice is what gets you going and you don’t like plot holes, then go for it.
Hmmm I liked the book, but didn’t love it because of too many continuity errors and the big baddies being nothing in the end. The ending was anticlimactic as the big horrid baddies turned out to be nothing special.
The spice was 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️, so if spice is what gets you going and you don’t like plot holes, then go for it.
August 3, 2025
Wow
This was intense! The first book was a page turner but this one topped this one out. The events , betrayals and all the emotional moments were incredible. There were moments that I haven’t seen coming and that ending was beyond what I expected!
This was intense! The first book was a page turner but this one topped this one out. The events , betrayals and all the emotional moments were incredible. There were moments that I haven’t seen coming and that ending was beyond what I expected!
August 22, 2025
Haven't really finished it yet, but I know already there's no way in hell this would get a higher rating. When characters are made to act irrationally and out of character, and when events don't match the build-up, it's doomed. Because what do you mean the Mia in Book 1 would suddenly destroy the evidence in Book 2? and Yulian suddenly becoming unforgiving towards Mia when it's been his whole character in Book 1? and the 5-year family reunion that felt like a lot less intimate than the CPS visits? Man, what the hell, it felt like it's written by AI
July 26, 2025
Wicked Refusal by @nicolefoxromance
🔥 Dive into a world of passion, danger, and desire with Wicked Refusal. This intensely gripping, darkly seductive story follows Yulian Lozhkin and the fearless woman who dares to challenge a powerful Bratva king. The tension is electric, the stakes are life changing, and the heat? Scorching. 🔥🔥🔥
💋 Love stories featuring:
•Possessive mafia antiheroes
•Secrets that spiral out of control and forbidden chemistry that burns bright
🔥 Dive into a world of passion, danger, and desire with Wicked Refusal. This intensely gripping, darkly seductive story follows Yulian Lozhkin and the fearless woman who dares to challenge a powerful Bratva king. The tension is electric, the stakes are life changing, and the heat? Scorching. 🔥🔥🔥
💋 Love stories featuring:
•Possessive mafia antiheroes
•Secrets that spiral out of control and forbidden chemistry that burns bright
August 1, 2025
I'm till currently reading this novel but I had to post my review because thats how annoyed I am.
******spoilers ahead********
1. Mia finds evidence that Brad did something ultra shady that may concern Yulian but decides to destroy the evidence to save his life because Eli deserves a father.
2. Brad is abusive to both her and their son verbally and physically yet she keeps on doing everything in her power to save his life. As someone who lived a life of abuse I'm going to say first hand that is a sorry excuse. she is literally putting Eli's safety at risk but keeping this man alive. he literally tried to make her miscarriage with both her pregnancies and she really thinks the court won't give him visitation rights and custody where he can harm Eli?
3. then let's go to her sister Ginny who betrays her and lies in court saying Mia is unfit for custody to purposely make her lose custody of Eli so Mia can move in and physically take care of their parents so Ginny can "have a life" but refuses her lawyer to do his job and destroy Ginny on the stand so she "doesn't get hurt". so you telling me Mia is willing to lose custody of her son then?! Because she can't have both but let me tell you in real life in real custody battle there wouldn't be she would of easily lost custody and be lucky for Supervised visitation after that ignorance. it seems like she doesn't put her children's best interest at first when required so I can see why Yulian gets cold when he does.
In all honesty I really don't like the female lead very disappointed in her behavior and priorities.
******spoilers ahead********
1. Mia finds evidence that Brad did something ultra shady that may concern Yulian but decides to destroy the evidence to save his life because Eli deserves a father.
2. Brad is abusive to both her and their son verbally and physically yet she keeps on doing everything in her power to save his life. As someone who lived a life of abuse I'm going to say first hand that is a sorry excuse. she is literally putting Eli's safety at risk but keeping this man alive. he literally tried to make her miscarriage with both her pregnancies and she really thinks the court won't give him visitation rights and custody where he can harm Eli?
3. then let's go to her sister Ginny who betrays her and lies in court saying Mia is unfit for custody to purposely make her lose custody of Eli so Mia can move in and physically take care of their parents so Ginny can "have a life" but refuses her lawyer to do his job and destroy Ginny on the stand so she "doesn't get hurt". so you telling me Mia is willing to lose custody of her son then?! Because she can't have both but let me tell you in real life in real custody battle there wouldn't be she would of easily lost custody and be lucky for Supervised visitation after that ignorance. it seems like she doesn't put her children's best interest at first when required so I can see why Yulian gets cold when he does.
In all honesty I really don't like the female lead very disappointed in her behavior and priorities.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 28, 2025
2.5 stars
2.5 stars
Book 1 gave me high hopes Fox wouldn’t disappoint. Sadly, this book is far too long. Far too many opponents coming left and right. Just silly.
Mia is a dolt. Really worse than in book 1. Yulian thinks she’s so kind because she doesn’t want her ex murdered. But, seriously? He put a gun to her son’s head (his own child!). Not once, but twice. I would have shot him myself. The boy feared him and hated him. Not wanting him dealt with because “he’s my son’s father” was a ridiculous thought.
And then there are the lies between Mia and Yulian and the distrust. Over and over and over.
The book is too long. Too repetitive.
Silly denouement.
2.5 stars
Book 1 gave me high hopes Fox wouldn’t disappoint. Sadly, this book is far too long. Far too many opponents coming left and right. Just silly.
Mia is a dolt. Really worse than in book 1. Yulian thinks she’s so kind because she doesn’t want her ex murdered. But, seriously? He put a gun to her son’s head (his own child!). Not once, but twice. I would have shot him myself. The boy feared him and hated him. Not wanting him dealt with because “he’s my son’s father” was a ridiculous thought.
And then there are the lies between Mia and Yulian and the distrust. Over and over and over.
The book is too long. Too repetitive.
Silly denouement.
July 22, 2025
gross
Having no dad is better than having an abusive dad. The idea that this supposedly intelligent FMC won’t let the abusive dad get killed because her kid needs him - after the dad hit him, emotionally abuses him, hit the mom, held a gun to his head, etc is so insane to me. And gross. Genetics do not make a father and the second a parent is abusive they don’t get the right to be called a parent anymore
Having no dad is better than having an abusive dad. The idea that this supposedly intelligent FMC won’t let the abusive dad get killed because her kid needs him - after the dad hit him, emotionally abuses him, hit the mom, held a gun to his head, etc is so insane to me. And gross. Genetics do not make a father and the second a parent is abusive they don’t get the right to be called a parent anymore
August 4, 2025
Child......this book was a mess. It really could've been an email. I was so sick of Mia's ass in this book I wanted to throw it out the window. You know what this book did for me? It made me not want to read another sentence from Nicole Fox. Mia was so unbelievably stupid and selfish. She got on my last nerves in this book! She wasn't nearly this stupid in the first book. And Yulian? He was the weakest Bratva Pakhan I've ever read! Yeah, this book cured me of Nicole Fox's work.
September 3, 2025
“Wicked Refusal” is the second book in the “Lozhkin Bratva Duet” Mia Winters, aka Euphemia Collins, is in hiding after suffering from years of domestic violence from her previous partner, Brad Baldwin. She is a single mum to her young son Eli, who is her whole world. Mia may struggle from paycheck to paycheck, working two jobs, but she is always home to read him a story before bedtime.
Yulian Lozhkin is Pakhan of the Lozhkin Bratva and the billionaire CEO of Star Tech Inc. when he was younger, his whole family, mother, father and sister, plus his best friend Kira, were murdered by the Prizark Crime Syndicate. Since that day, all he wants his revenge and make them pay for what they did. This has been his goal for two decades. He has no room in his heart for love, for a family, he will be on his own, forever…..until he meets Mia!
What's worse: the man who doesn't love you anymore, or the man who never did?
To protect her son by his father Brad, he forces her to go back to him and lie to Yulian, whilst a gun is pointed at Eli’s head. She chose to lie to the only man that she has ever loved, she chose survival, most of all, she chose her son! She also chose Yulian’s child that she is pregnant with, the one he knows nothing about….
“You miss her. You care about her. After all that’s happened, you still want her back.”
Three months later, Yulian discovers that she is pregnant, but does not realise that it is his and that her relationship with Brad has not changed…..”his gaze to know what he’s seeing: bruises. Black, purple, blue—a kaleidoscope kaleidoscope of pain shimmering up and down my arm. Some fresh, some old, all painful. “He’s hurting you,” he growls. “Again.” He is angry, but he walks away, again…..
Yulian and Mia’s relationship is tumultuous - with many twists and turns around each corner. Slowly the barriers come down ….. will April trust him again? Will Yulian finally open up to Mia? Will he explain to her why he is the way that he is, feels the way that he does? Will they be able to save their relationship and possibly become more? Will their relationship survive? Will parenthood bring them closer to each other? So many questions …. you will be hooked!
As per standard for Nicole’s Bratva Mafia Romance stories, it is dark in places, violent and dark at times, passion, secrets, loyalty and let’s not forget the heat between Yulian and Mia. The chemistry between them is off the page!
You will fall in love with both Yulian and Mia, hoping that everything with work out for them and if they have a future together. There is never a dull moment - you will be hooked! I know I was - just love these two! A thoroughly enjoyable read from page to page, one chapter to the next - at times you are metaphorical “on the edge of your chair” wondering what will happen next. Overall, I would highly recommend this book and you will not be disappointed 😊
Yulian Lozhkin is Pakhan of the Lozhkin Bratva and the billionaire CEO of Star Tech Inc. when he was younger, his whole family, mother, father and sister, plus his best friend Kira, were murdered by the Prizark Crime Syndicate. Since that day, all he wants his revenge and make them pay for what they did. This has been his goal for two decades. He has no room in his heart for love, for a family, he will be on his own, forever…..until he meets Mia!
What's worse: the man who doesn't love you anymore, or the man who never did?
To protect her son by his father Brad, he forces her to go back to him and lie to Yulian, whilst a gun is pointed at Eli’s head. She chose to lie to the only man that she has ever loved, she chose survival, most of all, she chose her son! She also chose Yulian’s child that she is pregnant with, the one he knows nothing about….
“You miss her. You care about her. After all that’s happened, you still want her back.”
Three months later, Yulian discovers that she is pregnant, but does not realise that it is his and that her relationship with Brad has not changed…..”his gaze to know what he’s seeing: bruises. Black, purple, blue—a kaleidoscope kaleidoscope of pain shimmering up and down my arm. Some fresh, some old, all painful. “He’s hurting you,” he growls. “Again.” He is angry, but he walks away, again…..
Yulian and Mia’s relationship is tumultuous - with many twists and turns around each corner. Slowly the barriers come down ….. will April trust him again? Will Yulian finally open up to Mia? Will he explain to her why he is the way that he is, feels the way that he does? Will they be able to save their relationship and possibly become more? Will their relationship survive? Will parenthood bring them closer to each other? So many questions …. you will be hooked!
As per standard for Nicole’s Bratva Mafia Romance stories, it is dark in places, violent and dark at times, passion, secrets, loyalty and let’s not forget the heat between Yulian and Mia. The chemistry between them is off the page!
You will fall in love with both Yulian and Mia, hoping that everything with work out for them and if they have a future together. There is never a dull moment - you will be hooked! I know I was - just love these two! A thoroughly enjoyable read from page to page, one chapter to the next - at times you are metaphorical “on the edge of your chair” wondering what will happen next. Overall, I would highly recommend this book and you will not be disappointed 😊
July 23, 2025
Wicked Refusal (Book #2). There ain't no rest for the wicked...
●● SPOILER ALERT ●●
Of course, I recommend reading book 2, WICKED REFUSAL, obviously being a duet with a previous cliffhanger it just has to be done! Let me start by saying I absolutely loved WICKED PROPOSAL (Book #1) and gave it a well-earned 5 🌟.
I don't regret reading this book, though I've reread a few chapters since I've finished, feeling I missed something I was curious about. My lack of tolerance/interest for the MFC was more than made up for in plot and other characters, good or bad. For me it rests at an undecided 3-4.
Now --- on to say....
Wicked Refusal? Well now, the MFC's REFUSAL to show a flicker of good common sense is quite the annoyance I nearly didn't have the patience for it, perhaps due to the lengthiness of this book (too much ) maybe it made me a little cranky! While the ex, her baby daddy, was continually, severely ab***ve to her and her son, Mia begs for the man's life repeatedly. Over. And. Over.
He held a g*n̈ to her son's head, more than once. Hít him. Hịt her. Burned her, etc. She doesn't want this horrible man unalived as suggested by the Bratva no less, over and over again. Now, don't get me wrong, while I have no trigger (actually probably none!) for ab**e, I do have a trigger for st*pịdíṭy! I was so close to a dnf, but since I prefer to ride out a novel once I start and not give in, and having personal obligation, I cringed and pushed on because there is always the chance maybe it's not her. Maybe it's me?! However, Mia's role in this book 2 was not as captivating for me as in book 1. It happens, despite her alleged doctorate intelligence. So little backbone, I couldn't see her as the "strong female". So many lies. So many things one would have just dropped in conversation, but she withheld. That inner dialog whine! Mishandling evidence? Lorty, the list goes on!
The humor I had enjoyed so much in the opening book was not present and just faded away in book 2 of the duet. I’ve questioned a buddy writer before, because more and more these plots have large inconsistencies in story and style. Just my curiosity.. It was still pretty good, yet I still enjoyed the side characters more than the mains. Except Eli. I will say the plot had many twists and scenarios, perhaps quite a bit more intermingled situations than Ms Fox usually has which turned out to be very appealing, with a few scenes to get slightly choked up over. But was it in a good way?
Most importantly, Yulian got his family unit!
"We can't slow down, we can't hold back...
Though you know we wish we could.
No, there ain't no rest for the wicked...
Until we close our eyes for good."
--Cage the Elephant
●● SPOILER ALERT ●●
Of course, I recommend reading book 2, WICKED REFUSAL, obviously being a duet with a previous cliffhanger it just has to be done! Let me start by saying I absolutely loved WICKED PROPOSAL (Book #1) and gave it a well-earned 5 🌟.
I don't regret reading this book, though I've reread a few chapters since I've finished, feeling I missed something I was curious about. My lack of tolerance/interest for the MFC was more than made up for in plot and other characters, good or bad. For me it rests at an undecided 3-4.
Now --- on to say....
Wicked Refusal? Well now, the MFC's REFUSAL to show a flicker of good common sense is quite the annoyance I nearly didn't have the patience for it, perhaps due to the lengthiness of this book (too much ) maybe it made me a little cranky! While the ex, her baby daddy, was continually, severely ab***ve to her and her son, Mia begs for the man's life repeatedly. Over. And. Over.
He held a g*n̈ to her son's head, more than once. Hít him. Hịt her. Burned her, etc. She doesn't want this horrible man unalived as suggested by the Bratva no less, over and over again. Now, don't get me wrong, while I have no trigger (actually probably none!) for ab**e, I do have a trigger for st*pịdíṭy! I was so close to a dnf, but since I prefer to ride out a novel once I start and not give in, and having personal obligation, I cringed and pushed on because there is always the chance maybe it's not her. Maybe it's me?! However, Mia's role in this book 2 was not as captivating for me as in book 1. It happens, despite her alleged doctorate intelligence. So little backbone, I couldn't see her as the "strong female". So many lies. So many things one would have just dropped in conversation, but she withheld. That inner dialog whine! Mishandling evidence? Lorty, the list goes on!
The humor I had enjoyed so much in the opening book was not present and just faded away in book 2 of the duet. I’ve questioned a buddy writer before, because more and more these plots have large inconsistencies in story and style. Just my curiosity.. It was still pretty good, yet I still enjoyed the side characters more than the mains. Except Eli. I will say the plot had many twists and scenarios, perhaps quite a bit more intermingled situations than Ms Fox usually has which turned out to be very appealing, with a few scenes to get slightly choked up over. But was it in a good way?
Most importantly, Yulian got his family unit!
"We can't slow down, we can't hold back...
Though you know we wish we could.
No, there ain't no rest for the wicked...
Until we close our eyes for good."
--Cage the Elephant
July 20, 2025
Nicole Fox outdid herself with Wicked Refusal. This book grabbed me by the throat and didn’t let go. Wow!!!
After the emotional chaos of Wicked Proposal, I didn’t think it could get more intense. I was wrong.
Mia is cornered by the consequences of her choices. Her abusive ex has her trapped, her son Eli feels betrayed, and she’s carrying Yulian’s child while Yulian himself believes she walked away without a word. The stakes? Life or death. Love or survival. Truth or betrayal.
Watching Yulian fight his way back into her life, despite everything, was breathtaking. He’s not just the devil she made a deal with but her savior, again and again. But peace is short-lived. Every time Mia takes a breath, the past crashes back: his past, her past. And it all begins to unravel.
This is not a short read; and neither was Book 1. However, every chapter is packed with emotional weight, unexpected turns, and characters who will crawl under your skin. The investment is absolutely worth it.
One of the most powerful elements in this book is the obsession: not between Mia and Yulian, but from those who can’t let them go. Mia’s abusive ex is obsessed with controlling her. Yulian’s oldest betrayal is rooted in someone else’s twisted fixation. These external obsessions burn so hot, they threaten to destroy everything in their path.
And yet, in the middle of all that danger and heartbreak, Yulian and Mia find a way to hold on. To survive. To love again. To finally claim the life they deserve.
I cried. I ached. I swooned. Because Mia and Yulian? They were meant for each other. Powerful, raw, magnetic and so beautifully broken.
Wicked Refusal is the perfect, devastating, glorious finale to a duet that tore me apart and put me back together again.
Nicole Fox, this is one of your best.
Highly recommended.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
After the emotional chaos of Wicked Proposal, I didn’t think it could get more intense. I was wrong.
Mia is cornered by the consequences of her choices. Her abusive ex has her trapped, her son Eli feels betrayed, and she’s carrying Yulian’s child while Yulian himself believes she walked away without a word. The stakes? Life or death. Love or survival. Truth or betrayal.
Watching Yulian fight his way back into her life, despite everything, was breathtaking. He’s not just the devil she made a deal with but her savior, again and again. But peace is short-lived. Every time Mia takes a breath, the past crashes back: his past, her past. And it all begins to unravel.
This is not a short read; and neither was Book 1. However, every chapter is packed with emotional weight, unexpected turns, and characters who will crawl under your skin. The investment is absolutely worth it.
One of the most powerful elements in this book is the obsession: not between Mia and Yulian, but from those who can’t let them go. Mia’s abusive ex is obsessed with controlling her. Yulian’s oldest betrayal is rooted in someone else’s twisted fixation. These external obsessions burn so hot, they threaten to destroy everything in their path.
And yet, in the middle of all that danger and heartbreak, Yulian and Mia find a way to hold on. To survive. To love again. To finally claim the life they deserve.
I cried. I ached. I swooned. Because Mia and Yulian? They were meant for each other. Powerful, raw, magnetic and so beautifully broken.
Wicked Refusal is the perfect, devastating, glorious finale to a duet that tore me apart and put me back together again.
Nicole Fox, this is one of your best.
Highly recommended.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 22, 2025
Wicked Refusal is the second and final book in the Lozhkin duet so I do recommend reading book one to avoid any indirect spoilers for this review.
When we last left off, Mia and Yulian were at crossroads that tore them apart. Now, separated by circumstances yet joined by hearts, they find themselves trying to reassess their situations and comb through the lies and fallout.
The separation between them was painful, I really hated every moment that they were apart and the forces that kept our beloved couple from being together. But that’s why Nicole Fox is such an amazing author and I love reading her stuff, it’s just so much excitement, so much passion and every moment is worth the angst. The plot really built up and became so complicated, it was honestly really well written and planned, I enjoyed it quite a bit.
“You, you are my home.”
Yulian went through quite a bit of growth in this one (as did Mia) and I felt that despite all the drama, they broke only to come back stronger than ever. Mia was a true Pakhansha and deserved to be at Yulian’s side! It felt like everyone was hitting them from all sides, again and again, the angst just never seemed to stop but that’s why their love was so unique and empowering.
Found family is one of my favourite tropes so seeing them become a new family unit was endearing. I feel like the trust that they built in this book, not only between Mia and Yulian but as a found family of friends, bratva members, and kids alike, really felt like a community.
I flew through the duet and as with all Nicole Fox mafia romances, there could have been a hundred epilogues and it still wouldn’t have been enough. But the ones that we did get, utter and absolute perfection in every way. I literally cried tears of happiness, hats off to you Nicole!
When we last left off, Mia and Yulian were at crossroads that tore them apart. Now, separated by circumstances yet joined by hearts, they find themselves trying to reassess their situations and comb through the lies and fallout.
The separation between them was painful, I really hated every moment that they were apart and the forces that kept our beloved couple from being together. But that’s why Nicole Fox is such an amazing author and I love reading her stuff, it’s just so much excitement, so much passion and every moment is worth the angst. The plot really built up and became so complicated, it was honestly really well written and planned, I enjoyed it quite a bit.
“You, you are my home.”
Yulian went through quite a bit of growth in this one (as did Mia) and I felt that despite all the drama, they broke only to come back stronger than ever. Mia was a true Pakhansha and deserved to be at Yulian’s side! It felt like everyone was hitting them from all sides, again and again, the angst just never seemed to stop but that’s why their love was so unique and empowering.
Found family is one of my favourite tropes so seeing them become a new family unit was endearing. I feel like the trust that they built in this book, not only between Mia and Yulian but as a found family of friends, bratva members, and kids alike, really felt like a community.
I flew through the duet and as with all Nicole Fox mafia romances, there could have been a hundred epilogues and it still wouldn’t have been enough. But the ones that we did get, utter and absolute perfection in every way. I literally cried tears of happiness, hats off to you Nicole!
July 23, 2025
Wicked Refusal picks up three months after the events of Book 1, reuniting us with Mia and Yulian—two people bound by love, secrets, and a very dangerous past. Things are complicated right from the start. Mia appears to be back with her ex, Yulian is reeling from betrayal, and neither of them knows who to trust. The tension is palpable, and it only escalates with the return of Prizrak—Yulian’s mysterious and deadly enemies.
The cracks in Mia and Yulian’s relationship deepen when it’s revealed that Yulian’s old plan to use Mia as bait to draw out Prizrak is still in motion. This betrayal—whether strategic or not—drives a painful wedge between them. Add in the introduction of Desya Bogdanov, a powerful new (old frenemy) force in the mix, and suddenly Mia and Yulian aren’t just fighting Prizrak—they’re facing threats on all sides.
There’s no shortage of drama, danger, and emotional turmoil in this installment. Brad and other side characters add even more chaos, but the real battle is between Mia and Yulian themselves. Pride, fear, and lack of trust keep them apart far longer than necessary. At times, it feels like all their pain could’ve been avoided with a little honesty and vulnerability. They are, without a doubt, their own worst enemies.
Despite the lies, near-death encounters, and betrayals, the story ends on a powerful and hopeful note. Mia and Yulian finally find peace—not just with each other, but as a family of four. Their journey reminds us that family isn’t always about blood; it’s about the love and loyalty we choose.
This book is a rollercoaster of emotions with high stakes, deep character flaws, and explosive action. If you love a dark romance with mafia elements, twisted loyalties, and complicated love stories, Wicked Refusal is a must-read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The cracks in Mia and Yulian’s relationship deepen when it’s revealed that Yulian’s old plan to use Mia as bait to draw out Prizrak is still in motion. This betrayal—whether strategic or not—drives a painful wedge between them. Add in the introduction of Desya Bogdanov, a powerful new (old frenemy) force in the mix, and suddenly Mia and Yulian aren’t just fighting Prizrak—they’re facing threats on all sides.
There’s no shortage of drama, danger, and emotional turmoil in this installment. Brad and other side characters add even more chaos, but the real battle is between Mia and Yulian themselves. Pride, fear, and lack of trust keep them apart far longer than necessary. At times, it feels like all their pain could’ve been avoided with a little honesty and vulnerability. They are, without a doubt, their own worst enemies.
Despite the lies, near-death encounters, and betrayals, the story ends on a powerful and hopeful note. Mia and Yulian finally find peace—not just with each other, but as a family of four. Their journey reminds us that family isn’t always about blood; it’s about the love and loyalty we choose.
This book is a rollercoaster of emotions with high stakes, deep character flaws, and explosive action. If you love a dark romance with mafia elements, twisted loyalties, and complicated love stories, Wicked Refusal is a must-read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 28, 2025
So excited to jump back on this roller coaster ride! This was the conclusion of the Lozhkin Bratva duet. Following as Mia went through her troubles with Brad again, to of course being the fierce Mama Bear she is and getting her baby boy good, to the other surprises along the way. It was a bitter sweet familial reunion. Swear I wanted to jump through the screen at Ginny. I mean, I totally get it but to go on and on and not believe your sister all cuz you butt hurt? And to believe the psycho in question because he brings her back around? Why wouldn’t you think something’s up and demand more answers? But that ultimate betrayal? Whew!! Didn’t see that one! I was thinking square and Ms Fox hit us with a circle lol. Glad everything came together though I felt a bit more wrath and fury should have been directed at a certain someone but hey *insert shrug* it worked out. The way the ending came together was very good. Heavy on the suspense with more than a little shock and awe factors lol. My only thing, I wished the Nikitas end role was a bit more drawn out. Like you are hella weak, basically fritzing out at times, but a half assed pep talk one super ninja move and its done? More build up on that then the end was given and also dealing with the whole history of the organization. But in the interest of keeping the story flowing I get it. Still an overall good read. I do love it when we get longer future glimpses so was happy to see folks growing, and still being bad asses and getting to do things that were extremely missed. Yulian is still an alpha sweetheart and I am so totally here for it!!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 22, 2025
Nicole has a way to pull me into her worlds, making me cry, laugh or be pissed off at the characters. This one was just like the others I have read for her. This book was no different from the others I've read by her. It grabbed me by the throat and didn't let go. and didn’t let go.
This book picks up where book 1 left off -Mia stands at the precipice of her own decisions, engulfed by the heavy consequences that threaten to consume her. Her abusive ex looms like a predator, weaving an insidious net that leaves her feeling trapped and vulnerable, each day a battle against his suffocating control. The bond with her son, Eli, hangs by a thread; his disillusionment cuts deep, painting her as a figure of betrayal in his young eyes, a wound that festers with each painful glance he casts her way. Adding to her turmoil, she bears the secret of Yulian’s child, a delicate life cradled within her, symbolizing both hope and heartache.
Unknown to Yulian, who remains convinced of her silence and abandonment, the weight of their unspoken love hangs heavily in the air between them, a bittersweet melody of what once was. The stakes of Mia’s existence have never been so stark: she grapples with a fate where love clashes with the instinct to survive, where the truth threatens to unravel everything she holds dear, and where betrayal lurks just a breath away, ready to shatter the fragile remnants of her world. Each breath feels like a countdown, as she navigates this perilous terrain of choices that could lead to either truth or betrayal.
The rest you need to just read for yourself. Happy ending or not?
Overall, I love this book. I will continue to read Nicole Fox as well.
This book picks up where book 1 left off -Mia stands at the precipice of her own decisions, engulfed by the heavy consequences that threaten to consume her. Her abusive ex looms like a predator, weaving an insidious net that leaves her feeling trapped and vulnerable, each day a battle against his suffocating control. The bond with her son, Eli, hangs by a thread; his disillusionment cuts deep, painting her as a figure of betrayal in his young eyes, a wound that festers with each painful glance he casts her way. Adding to her turmoil, she bears the secret of Yulian’s child, a delicate life cradled within her, symbolizing both hope and heartache.
Unknown to Yulian, who remains convinced of her silence and abandonment, the weight of their unspoken love hangs heavily in the air between them, a bittersweet melody of what once was. The stakes of Mia’s existence have never been so stark: she grapples with a fate where love clashes with the instinct to survive, where the truth threatens to unravel everything she holds dear, and where betrayal lurks just a breath away, ready to shatter the fragile remnants of her world. Each breath feels like a countdown, as she navigates this perilous terrain of choices that could lead to either truth or betrayal.
The rest you need to just read for yourself. Happy ending or not?
Overall, I love this book. I will continue to read Nicole Fox as well.
July 25, 2025
Hooked to this in a I-could-not-put-it-down kinda way.
So make sure you have time for the full duet in one go since I recommend you read them straight after each other.
“Because the truth is, Yulian is a sin. He’s indescribably hot, all abs and muscles and musky scent, and every time he looks at me with those burning cinder eyes I feel like I could come on the spot.”
Sooo don't say I did not warn you.. Its HOT.. chemistry kinda Hot. xx
I love how he just blankets her and hers with protection and care from the first book.
It doesn't matter what the state of their relationship is or what the future holds. I think Yulian is such a crazy humble Alpha male. I love his personality and the visuals painted certainly did not disappoint either.
Yulian chuckles. A rare sound. “Bossy little kitten. Thought I’d cured you of your obsession for control.” “Maybe I need a remedial lesson.” His eyes go dark. “I can arrange that.”..”
Mia has gone trough so much and she still does but I think she is a bad ass Momma Bear.. do not mess with her cub and loved ones. I was happily very impressed with her growth as well.
“You were brave, Nurse Winters,” he whispers against my lips. “I’m proud of you.”
There is a certain resident bad-ass I would love to see in her own book.
The story is hectic with many twists and turns. Its action packed but also with slower more human moments in.
Wicked Refusal is up there!! Lovely last epilogue made me über happy!!
( check your triggers if you have any. )
So make sure you have time for the full duet in one go since I recommend you read them straight after each other.
“Because the truth is, Yulian is a sin. He’s indescribably hot, all abs and muscles and musky scent, and every time he looks at me with those burning cinder eyes I feel like I could come on the spot.”
Sooo don't say I did not warn you.. Its HOT.. chemistry kinda Hot. xx
I love how he just blankets her and hers with protection and care from the first book.
It doesn't matter what the state of their relationship is or what the future holds. I think Yulian is such a crazy humble Alpha male. I love his personality and the visuals painted certainly did not disappoint either.
Yulian chuckles. A rare sound. “Bossy little kitten. Thought I’d cured you of your obsession for control.” “Maybe I need a remedial lesson.” His eyes go dark. “I can arrange that.”..”
Mia has gone trough so much and she still does but I think she is a bad ass Momma Bear.. do not mess with her cub and loved ones. I was happily very impressed with her growth as well.
“You were brave, Nurse Winters,” he whispers against my lips. “I’m proud of you.”
There is a certain resident bad-ass I would love to see in her own book.
The story is hectic with many twists and turns. Its action packed but also with slower more human moments in.
Wicked Refusal is up there!! Lovely last epilogue made me über happy!!
( check your triggers if you have any. )
September 22, 2025
Wicked Refusal
(Lozhkin Bratva Book 2)
by Nicole Fox
I’m not sure where I actually started wondering why Mia made some of the decisions she made and why she can’t understand, that the Prizark are not going to stop trying to take down Yulian and his bratva. On top of that someone who had been thought dead has returned and has his eye on taking out Julian as well.
Understandable that she didn’t want to go back to her Ex and doing so can keep her eyes on little Eli….but sometimes it is better to let someone else fight your fights. A new baby on the way and I had to wonder what on earth is she thinking.
Of course it wasn’t me…so I can say she did what she thought was right.
But wrong kept happening and boy, oh boy, Mia was in between a rock and a hard place.
As was Yulian, ok he was closer to bullet and a wall……and I really like Yulian!
If there wasn’t enough going on, her Ex Brad is hiding secrets from a lot of people….and he is going to cause a whole heck of a lot of trouble for Mia; and the cherry on the top of this crazy is Mia’s family decending and it appears her sister is willing to put Mia right into the path of Brad’s revenge.
There are still things Yulian is unaware of and bullets will fly…and at times it appears all might be lost…but then again Yulian is still in charge and and now he knows who he is going up against!
All and all, I found book 2 a tad longer than it needed to be, but it had a great story line that keep me reading and by the end Wicked Refusal was a good read and finished off the story of Mia and Yulian.
(Lozhkin Bratva Book 2)
by Nicole Fox
I’m not sure where I actually started wondering why Mia made some of the decisions she made and why she can’t understand, that the Prizark are not going to stop trying to take down Yulian and his bratva. On top of that someone who had been thought dead has returned and has his eye on taking out Julian as well.
Understandable that she didn’t want to go back to her Ex and doing so can keep her eyes on little Eli….but sometimes it is better to let someone else fight your fights. A new baby on the way and I had to wonder what on earth is she thinking.
Of course it wasn’t me…so I can say she did what she thought was right.
But wrong kept happening and boy, oh boy, Mia was in between a rock and a hard place.
As was Yulian, ok he was closer to bullet and a wall……and I really like Yulian!
If there wasn’t enough going on, her Ex Brad is hiding secrets from a lot of people….and he is going to cause a whole heck of a lot of trouble for Mia; and the cherry on the top of this crazy is Mia’s family decending and it appears her sister is willing to put Mia right into the path of Brad’s revenge.
There are still things Yulian is unaware of and bullets will fly…and at times it appears all might be lost…but then again Yulian is still in charge and and now he knows who he is going up against!
All and all, I found book 2 a tad longer than it needed to be, but it had a great story line that keep me reading and by the end Wicked Refusal was a good read and finished off the story of Mia and Yulian.
October 11, 2025
Omg! This book was so worth the wait! I love Nicole Fox! This is book 2 of the Lozhkin Bratva series.
We are back with more Yulian and Mia drama, lies, heartbreak, surrender, murder, lust and oh so spicy moments.
The saga continues with Mia and Eli escaping Brad only to put back in Yuliana’s orbit and personal space.
And Yulian finally figures out that he can’t live without them and will do everything in his power to protect them from the world and those trying to destroy him.
I love the dynamic between these two. He is so stoic and used to getting his way and she pushes every single button he has because she is hyper independent and doesn’t want and or need to always be bubble wrapped in this dangerous world.
I love a strong female lead and Mia is everything a fmc should be. I love her grit and determination to stand by her man to fight against those trying to taken them down. I have loved watching her grow and become open to accepting help and love without a cost. She loves with her whole self and it’s so awesome.
Yuli is still as frustrating as he was in book 1. He wants to bubble wrap Mia and Eli and even his soldiers because he can’t stand the thought of losing anyone else he cares about. He grows a lot in this book and it was really cool to see his development in going from single to being a dad with a whole family.
If you love all things Bratva and want to get lost in a wonderful story Nicole Fox has it on lock. Check out book 1 first though.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
We are back with more Yulian and Mia drama, lies, heartbreak, surrender, murder, lust and oh so spicy moments.
The saga continues with Mia and Eli escaping Brad only to put back in Yuliana’s orbit and personal space.
And Yulian finally figures out that he can’t live without them and will do everything in his power to protect them from the world and those trying to destroy him.
I love the dynamic between these two. He is so stoic and used to getting his way and she pushes every single button he has because she is hyper independent and doesn’t want and or need to always be bubble wrapped in this dangerous world.
I love a strong female lead and Mia is everything a fmc should be. I love her grit and determination to stand by her man to fight against those trying to taken them down. I have loved watching her grow and become open to accepting help and love without a cost. She loves with her whole self and it’s so awesome.
Yuli is still as frustrating as he was in book 1. He wants to bubble wrap Mia and Eli and even his soldiers because he can’t stand the thought of losing anyone else he cares about. He grows a lot in this book and it was really cool to see his development in going from single to being a dad with a whole family.
If you love all things Bratva and want to get lost in a wonderful story Nicole Fox has it on lock. Check out book 1 first though.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 8, 2025
As much as I enjoyed the first book in the series, I hated this one because of the FMC. I know you’re wondering why I kept reading. Well you know how you start a terrible movie, and you know it isn’t great, but you can’t just stop watching? That was me. As mad as the book made me, as much as I hated Mia, I had to get to the end.
This is book 2 about Yulian and Mia’s relationship…and as much empathy as I had for her in book 1, it all leeched away in book 2. Mia was short sighted and untrustworthy. She was forever inserting herself in Yulian’s Bratva business, while withholding a huge secret that affected him. He might have moved differently if he had known that truth. Also, I was SICK of her giving Brad’s fatherhood so much worth. C’mon he was a sleaze bag who abused Mia and belittled Eli. He didn’t want to be that boys father and the fact that she spared his life over and over was sickening. As a mother there’s no way I would have done half the shit she did or put my unborn child in jeopardy like she did.
The situation with Yulian, Desya and the Bratva was the redeeming factor. How the secret group moved and stayed on Yulian and his Bratva was fascinating. Especially the shootout in the garden that was amazing. But that was background noise to Mia’s foolishness. Even the epilogues annoyed me. Soooooo I’m glad I’m done and even happier that I borrowed this dayum book from Kindle Unlimited so I could give it back.
This is book 2 about Yulian and Mia’s relationship…and as much empathy as I had for her in book 1, it all leeched away in book 2. Mia was short sighted and untrustworthy. She was forever inserting herself in Yulian’s Bratva business, while withholding a huge secret that affected him. He might have moved differently if he had known that truth. Also, I was SICK of her giving Brad’s fatherhood so much worth. C’mon he was a sleaze bag who abused Mia and belittled Eli. He didn’t want to be that boys father and the fact that she spared his life over and over was sickening. As a mother there’s no way I would have done half the shit she did or put my unborn child in jeopardy like she did.
The situation with Yulian, Desya and the Bratva was the redeeming factor. How the secret group moved and stayed on Yulian and his Bratva was fascinating. Especially the shootout in the garden that was amazing. But that was background noise to Mia’s foolishness. Even the epilogues annoyed me. Soooooo I’m glad I’m done and even happier that I borrowed this dayum book from Kindle Unlimited so I could give it back.
August 15, 2025
Wicked Refusal is the conclusion in the Yulian Lozhkin Bratva Duet. A full-length standalone novel complete with a happily-ever-after. The story picks up where it left off from the cliffhanger and Mia had obliterate her relationship with only man who has truly loved her and broken his heart. Yulian doesn't want anything to do with her and wants to see her demise. But she thought that she was doing the right thing by her son and didn't asked Yulian for his help and instead had bow down to Brad's demands. They're both still keeping secrets and not trusting each other which only made it hard for them to defeat their common enemy. They're more action, deception, hatred and new enemies in this book and Brad is even more unhinged and psychotic in this book. Mia continues to put herself in danger as it comes to dealing with the Bratva but she eventually come into her own as the pakhan's queen. And when Yulian learnt the truth that she was in facted carrying his heir he would do everything in his power to fix their relationship, get rid of his enemies once on for all and they eventually became the family that they were meant to be after their many obstacles of custody battle and family issues. It was a hard fought HEA.
I received an advanced copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an advanced copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 31, 2025
After reading wicked proposal and ending it on that cliffhanger I was chomping at the bit to read wicked refusal and find out what happened next, and it did not disappoint! I was on the edge of my seat on a rollercoaster reading Mia and Yulian’s conclusion! It can be summed up on one word - perfection!
I loved Mia’s character - strong, resilient, fierce, protective, defiant and determined. Driven by her love, care and utter devotion to the ones she loves, she’s faced with impossible choice after impossible choice and always puts her loved ones interests above her own.
I love yulian too, after experiencing his own traumas and betrayal in his past, feeling the pressures around him to keep everyone safe, Mia & their children, his friends, his bratva family, he struggles to to fight and try to keep everyone safe how he thinks a pakhan should. The emotional journey he goes on throughout this book was emotional and gripping.
As always Nicole has written a fabulous conclusion to the duet, well paced, packed with drama, angst, emotion, good old bratva violence and destruction and also joy, love, redemption and happiness.
If you like mafia romance packed with steam, angst, action and all the feelings you will not regret reading this series!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I loved Mia’s character - strong, resilient, fierce, protective, defiant and determined. Driven by her love, care and utter devotion to the ones she loves, she’s faced with impossible choice after impossible choice and always puts her loved ones interests above her own.
I love yulian too, after experiencing his own traumas and betrayal in his past, feeling the pressures around him to keep everyone safe, Mia & their children, his friends, his bratva family, he struggles to to fight and try to keep everyone safe how he thinks a pakhan should. The emotional journey he goes on throughout this book was emotional and gripping.
As always Nicole has written a fabulous conclusion to the duet, well paced, packed with drama, angst, emotion, good old bratva violence and destruction and also joy, love, redemption and happiness.
If you like mafia romance packed with steam, angst, action and all the feelings you will not regret reading this series!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 29, 2025
3.75/5 ⭐
2.5/5 🌶️
Well... Not what I was expecting for book 2.
Book 1 set up something interesting with all the moving parts and subplots, but I'm not sure I'm on board with how it all played out. My biggest frustration was definitely Mia. Now, not my first rodeo with the Mafia romance FMC and how they're kinda dumb most of the time, but for the love of gawd, Mia was a whole other level. The ex tries to make you lose more than one baby, holds your son at gûnpoint, be@ts the bejeezus outta you, verbal @buse, kidn@pping, custody dispute, just all around he's gotta go energy, and you keep saying you don't want your son to live without his father??? Trying to protect your kids? NO, protecting HIM, all day. So damn frustrating. Then Yulian and his ghost ex bestie, that drug out a little too long. Overall, the book lasted a little longer than it needed to really, a lot of the plot lines could have been finished a little cleaner, and the character development was a little lacking this time around. The spice was good, as usual, and the chemistry was there with these two. Loved the little kid, he was so sweet. Secondary characters were awesome as well. Not my favorite ending to a Nicole Fox duology, but I'll always be a fan and will be waiting to see what the next duet will be.
2.5/5 🌶️
Well... Not what I was expecting for book 2.
Book 1 set up something interesting with all the moving parts and subplots, but I'm not sure I'm on board with how it all played out. My biggest frustration was definitely Mia. Now, not my first rodeo with the Mafia romance FMC and how they're kinda dumb most of the time, but for the love of gawd, Mia was a whole other level. The ex tries to make you lose more than one baby, holds your son at gûnpoint, be@ts the bejeezus outta you, verbal @buse, kidn@pping, custody dispute, just all around he's gotta go energy, and you keep saying you don't want your son to live without his father??? Trying to protect your kids? NO, protecting HIM, all day. So damn frustrating. Then Yulian and his ghost ex bestie, that drug out a little too long. Overall, the book lasted a little longer than it needed to really, a lot of the plot lines could have been finished a little cleaner, and the character development was a little lacking this time around. The spice was good, as usual, and the chemistry was there with these two. Loved the little kid, he was so sweet. Secondary characters were awesome as well. Not my favorite ending to a Nicole Fox duology, but I'll always be a fan and will be waiting to see what the next duet will be.
February 13, 2026
What's the man who doesn't love you anymore, or the man who never did? Three months ago, I made a deal. One night with a Russian mobster for a million dollars. It was supposed to solve everything. It did not. Now, I'm trapped in a nightmare with my abusive ex. My son thinks I'm a liar. And I'm pregnant with a baby whose father wants nothing to do with me. All because I had to
Tell Yulian Lozhkin the truth and watch my ex put a gun to my child's head...? Or lie to the only man I've ever loved and keep my family alive? I chose the lie. I chose survival. I chose my son. But now, the past is catching up to all of us. Yulian's enemies are coming. My ex won't let us go. And I'm running out of time to protect the people I love. They say the devil you know is better than the devil you don't. But what happens when both devils want to destroy you? What happens when the only person who can save you... is the one whose heart you just broke?
This mafia book is a continuation of Wicked Proposal and what a continuation it is. I loved the development of this book and the journey of Julian and Mia go on throughout this book. There isn't a dull moment and as a reader you certainly go on a roller coaster with this book. Nicole Fox certainly can suck in the readers from the very beginning.
Tell Yulian Lozhkin the truth and watch my ex put a gun to my child's head...? Or lie to the only man I've ever loved and keep my family alive? I chose the lie. I chose survival. I chose my son. But now, the past is catching up to all of us. Yulian's enemies are coming. My ex won't let us go. And I'm running out of time to protect the people I love. They say the devil you know is better than the devil you don't. But what happens when both devils want to destroy you? What happens when the only person who can save you... is the one whose heart you just broke?
This mafia book is a continuation of Wicked Proposal and what a continuation it is. I loved the development of this book and the journey of Julian and Mia go on throughout this book. There isn't a dull moment and as a reader you certainly go on a roller coaster with this book. Nicole Fox certainly can suck in the readers from the very beginning.
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