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Prince of Control
In his world, control is power—and I won’t be controlled.
I hate Benjamin Baranov.
He stole everything from me—my dream internship, my friends, my future.
And now, thanks to his father’s ruthless decree, I’m trapped… married to my enemy.
He’s cold. Calculating. Consuming.
A master manipulator who moves through the world like he owns it—and now, he thinks he owns me.
He watches my every move. Twists my thoughts. Controls the very air I breathe.
He’s not just playing a game.
He’s writing the rules, stacking the deck, and locking the door behind me.
But there’s one thing he should
I can’t be controlled.
Prince of Control is the first standalone in the Bratva Heirs series, a spin-off of the USA Today Bestselling Chicago Bratva series. It’s all the bratva goodness you desire, but set at Thornecroft University, where loyalty is currency, secrets are deadly, and love could ruin you… or save you.
Expect enemies-to-lovers intensity, forced proximity heat, and the dark, dangerous heirs of the bratva world. Includes scenes of violence and explicit content intended for mature readers only.
I hate Benjamin Baranov.
He stole everything from me—my dream internship, my friends, my future.
And now, thanks to his father’s ruthless decree, I’m trapped… married to my enemy.
He’s cold. Calculating. Consuming.
A master manipulator who moves through the world like he owns it—and now, he thinks he owns me.
He watches my every move. Twists my thoughts. Controls the very air I breathe.
He’s not just playing a game.
He’s writing the rules, stacking the deck, and locking the door behind me.
But there’s one thing he should
I can’t be controlled.
Prince of Control is the first standalone in the Bratva Heirs series, a spin-off of the USA Today Bestselling Chicago Bratva series. It’s all the bratva goodness you desire, but set at Thornecroft University, where loyalty is currency, secrets are deadly, and love could ruin you… or save you.
Expect enemies-to-lovers intensity, forced proximity heat, and the dark, dangerous heirs of the bratva world. Includes scenes of violence and explicit content intended for mature readers only.
300 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 25, 2025
56 people are currently reading
1778 people want to read
About the author
Renee Rose
285 books4,911 followers15-Time USA TODAY BESTSELLING AUTHOR RENEE ROSE loves a dominant, dirty-talking alpha hero! She's sold over five million copies of steamy romance with varying levels of kink. Her books have been featured in USA Today's Happily Ever After and Popsugar. Named Eroticon USA's Next Top Erotic Author in 2013, she has also won Spunky and Sassy's Favorite Sci-Fi and Anthology author, The Romance Reviews Best Historical Romance, and has hit the USA Today list with her Chicago Bratva, Bad Boy Alpha, and Wolf Ranch books as well as various kinky anthologies.
For FREE RENEE ROSE BOOKS, go to this page: https://subscribepage.com/alphastemp
**Visit her blog at www.reneeroseromance.com
**Follow Renee at www.Facebook.com/ReneeRoseRomance - She loves to chat with readers!
**Follow her on Tiktok @authorreneerose
**Follow her on Instagram at www.instagram.com/reneeroseromance
WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING ABOUT RENEE'S BOOKS:
"I savor Renee Rose's books as if they were the finest of champagnes" ~USA Today Bestselling Author Sierra Cartwright
"Renee Rose has an ability to write the most captivating, most intriguing, and the hottest books around." ~ USA Today Bestselling Author Alta Hensley
"A sexy tale for modern women that's as steamy as a locker room shower." ~Kirkus Reviews
"I've been completely blown away by this series" ~The Romance Reviews
"Nobody writes a bad boy hero like Renee Rose" ~USA Today Bestselling Author Cara Bristol
"If you are looking for a romance you can lose yourself in and think fondly of for days after, look no further. This is a Renee Rose book and this author is very good at what she does." ~USA Today Bestselling Author Maren Smith
"Hands down Renee Rose writes the sexiest, naughtiest, set your Kindle on fire romance." ~USA Today Bestselling Author Natasha Knight
"If you love your men dominant alphas and get considerable pleasure out of watching them have their lives turned upside down by the women in their lives on the way to their happily ever after, then you'll love this story." ~The Romance Reviews [TOP PICK]
"Rose always delivers with her erotic stories. It's hot, it's sexy, & don't forget the icy drink & fan when you read this one." ~Manic Readers
"I have yet to read a book by Renee Rose that I don't enjoy so much as to read it again and again." ~Bottoms Up Book Reviews
For FREE RENEE ROSE BOOKS, go to this page: https://subscribepage.com/alphastemp
**Visit her blog at www.reneeroseromance.com
**Follow Renee at www.Facebook.com/ReneeRoseRomance - She loves to chat with readers!
**Follow her on Tiktok @authorreneerose
**Follow her on Instagram at www.instagram.com/reneeroseromance
WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING ABOUT RENEE'S BOOKS:
"I savor Renee Rose's books as if they were the finest of champagnes" ~USA Today Bestselling Author Sierra Cartwright
"Renee Rose has an ability to write the most captivating, most intriguing, and the hottest books around." ~ USA Today Bestselling Author Alta Hensley
"A sexy tale for modern women that's as steamy as a locker room shower." ~Kirkus Reviews
"I've been completely blown away by this series" ~The Romance Reviews
"Nobody writes a bad boy hero like Renee Rose" ~USA Today Bestselling Author Cara Bristol
"If you are looking for a romance you can lose yourself in and think fondly of for days after, look no further. This is a Renee Rose book and this author is very good at what she does." ~USA Today Bestselling Author Maren Smith
"Hands down Renee Rose writes the sexiest, naughtiest, set your Kindle on fire romance." ~USA Today Bestselling Author Natasha Knight
"If you love your men dominant alphas and get considerable pleasure out of watching them have their lives turned upside down by the women in their lives on the way to their happily ever after, then you'll love this story." ~The Romance Reviews [TOP PICK]
"Rose always delivers with her erotic stories. It's hot, it's sexy, & don't forget the icy drink & fan when you read this one." ~Manic Readers
"I have yet to read a book by Renee Rose that I don't enjoy so much as to read it again and again." ~Bottoms Up Book Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 146 reviews
September 25, 2025
This is Benjamin and Lara’s story, and it’s filled with pitfalls as well as peaks. Their journey
is not easy; every decision comes with consequences, and every step forward brings new
challenges that test their loyalty, trust, and strength. Their chemistry is undeniable and
simmers with tension and passion. Betrayal, revenge, raw emotion, and heart-stopping
suspense woven throughout, Prince of Control kept me on edge and completely invested.
It’s a powerful start to the Bratva Heir series, and I'm eager to see where Ms Rose takes
us next.
This story is set in a college dorm run by the industrious Ben and his friends. At first, I
thought he was an anti-hero in the making, but soon realized with his protective streak
that he had already achieved that role. Yes, he was dangerous when crossed, but the care
and warmth he showed Lara was heartwarming and revealed a depth to his character
that I admired.
Benjamin is dark, dangerous, and fiercely protective, but his need for control often collides
with Lara’s independence and fire. On the other hand, Lara refuses to be broken or silenced,
even when the world around her threatens to consume her. Watching these strong-willed
characters clash, fall, and fight back at each other, made the story compelling and
unforgettable.
Lara was a spitfire, complete with strength and resilience. She was angry and confused,
having lived her own terms until her father stepped in. Over time, her feelings for Ben
grew stronger, but the truth, when revealed, knocked her sideways and placed her directly
in danger.
Benjamin Baranov did not hesitate when his father asked him to marry Lara, a stranger
and the daughter of his father’s friend, to keep her safe from Brash Rostov and his father,
who wanted a union between the two families. The only problem was that no one asked
Lara what she wanted. Lara is resentful, and I don’t blame her. She was dragged away from
her life in Paris and forced to marry Benjamin Baranov, a man she didn’t know. One honest
conversation could have prevented so much hurt and misunderstanding.
I found this book fascinating and tried to keep an open mind, mainly because of the characters'
age. However, with each page I read and reread, I discovered new layers in the characters and
the plot, particularly with Ben. To me, that is the sign of an excellent book. The secondary
characters enhanced the overall reading experience, and I loved the sense of anticipation and
creativity that Ms. Rose was able to instill into the storyline. I'm looking forward to the next
book in this entertaining series.
is not easy; every decision comes with consequences, and every step forward brings new
challenges that test their loyalty, trust, and strength. Their chemistry is undeniable and
simmers with tension and passion. Betrayal, revenge, raw emotion, and heart-stopping
suspense woven throughout, Prince of Control kept me on edge and completely invested.
It’s a powerful start to the Bratva Heir series, and I'm eager to see where Ms Rose takes
us next.
This story is set in a college dorm run by the industrious Ben and his friends. At first, I
thought he was an anti-hero in the making, but soon realized with his protective streak
that he had already achieved that role. Yes, he was dangerous when crossed, but the care
and warmth he showed Lara was heartwarming and revealed a depth to his character
that I admired.
Benjamin is dark, dangerous, and fiercely protective, but his need for control often collides
with Lara’s independence and fire. On the other hand, Lara refuses to be broken or silenced,
even when the world around her threatens to consume her. Watching these strong-willed
characters clash, fall, and fight back at each other, made the story compelling and
unforgettable.
Lara was a spitfire, complete with strength and resilience. She was angry and confused,
having lived her own terms until her father stepped in. Over time, her feelings for Ben
grew stronger, but the truth, when revealed, knocked her sideways and placed her directly
in danger.
Benjamin Baranov did not hesitate when his father asked him to marry Lara, a stranger
and the daughter of his father’s friend, to keep her safe from Brash Rostov and his father,
who wanted a union between the two families. The only problem was that no one asked
Lara what she wanted. Lara is resentful, and I don’t blame her. She was dragged away from
her life in Paris and forced to marry Benjamin Baranov, a man she didn’t know. One honest
conversation could have prevented so much hurt and misunderstanding.
I found this book fascinating and tried to keep an open mind, mainly because of the characters'
age. However, with each page I read and reread, I discovered new layers in the characters and
the plot, particularly with Ben. To me, that is the sign of an excellent book. The secondary
characters enhanced the overall reading experience, and I loved the sense of anticipation and
creativity that Ms. Rose was able to instill into the storyline. I'm looking forward to the next
book in this entertaining series.
September 25, 2025
The next generation of the Chicago Bratva have arrived and what an explosive entrance it's been, there’s nothing quite like shouting WE ARE HERE! Set in Thornecroft University, the school where the children of the world’s wealthy and elite go knowing they’ll be safe, it is here that Benjamin ‘Baron’ Baranov, son of Ravil and Lucy rules supreme with his own personal bratva consisting of friends and family and their own house known as the Gulag complete with BDSM dungeon where they hold exclusive parties that have the students queuing up to attend. It's into this world that Lara Turgeneva (daughter of Adrian and Kat) finds herself catapulted against her will when her father decides she needs protecting from an unsuitable suitor and his method of doing so, marrying his daughter off to Baron.
I loved their parents' stories but after reading Prince of Control I’m guessing that their offspring are going to cause just as much mayhem. Baron initially had the idea that his marriage to Lara would be strictly platonic, lasting a couple years or so until the threat was gone, his main reason for agreeing other than because his father asked him was the man involved was his bitter enemy but one look at Lara and all thoughts of separate rooms went out the window. Lara had no idea that the man she’d dated a couple of times was a threat, the knowledge of which her overprotective father shielded her from preferring to have her think he had no choice but to agree to her marriage after an order from his Pakhan. All she knew was she’d been in Paris one minute before being transported to the wilds of Illinois, married to a stranger and blaming Baron for her predicament, but it wasn’t long before the chemistry between them erupted. Baron came across as older than his years but there was an underlying trauma from his childhood that had a tragic outcome he’d been blaming himself for. This led him to be overprotective not only to those he cared about but also towards people who were weaker than him earning their loyalty even though he’d asked for nothing in return. There was a third act break up between him and Lara when she discovered part of the truth which saw her land herself in danger, but which gave Baron a chance to flex his muscles and ride to the rescue. Overall, the Bratva Heirs series is off to a great start. Prince of Control was a fast-paced story with several intriguing and diverse characters and a couple of hints for future pairings thrown in.
I loved their parents' stories but after reading Prince of Control I’m guessing that their offspring are going to cause just as much mayhem. Baron initially had the idea that his marriage to Lara would be strictly platonic, lasting a couple years or so until the threat was gone, his main reason for agreeing other than because his father asked him was the man involved was his bitter enemy but one look at Lara and all thoughts of separate rooms went out the window. Lara had no idea that the man she’d dated a couple of times was a threat, the knowledge of which her overprotective father shielded her from preferring to have her think he had no choice but to agree to her marriage after an order from his Pakhan. All she knew was she’d been in Paris one minute before being transported to the wilds of Illinois, married to a stranger and blaming Baron for her predicament, but it wasn’t long before the chemistry between them erupted. Baron came across as older than his years but there was an underlying trauma from his childhood that had a tragic outcome he’d been blaming himself for. This led him to be overprotective not only to those he cared about but also towards people who were weaker than him earning their loyalty even though he’d asked for nothing in return. There was a third act break up between him and Lara when she discovered part of the truth which saw her land herself in danger, but which gave Baron a chance to flex his muscles and ride to the rescue. Overall, the Bratva Heirs series is off to a great start. Prince of Control was a fast-paced story with several intriguing and diverse characters and a couple of hints for future pairings thrown in.
October 3, 2025
4.5 stars
Renee Rose delivers another intense Mafia romance, this time with the next generation of the Chicago Bratva. Prince of Control introduces Benjamin “Baron” Baranov, a young Bratva heir whose maturity, strength, and protective instincts come from both trauma and responsibility.
Lara, on the other hand, begins the story overwhelmed, uprooted, and hostile. Forced into a marriage she never wanted, she sees enemies everywhere, including the man sworn to protect her. Her resistance, her distrust, and her anger make her hard to love at first, but her gradual transformation adds depth to their story.
This book is filled with classic tropes that Bratva fans love: enemies-to-lovers tension, forced proximity, and dark family secrets, with just enough heat to keep the pages burning. The chemistry between Lara and Ben is undeniable, with steamy scenes that lean into mild BDSM without overshadowing the emotional journey.
What worked most for me was Baron himself. He carries the story: gentle yet alpha, protective yet vulnerable, willing to sacrifice everything for the people he loves. He may be ruthless when he has to be, but with Lara, he reveals a rare tenderness beneath the steel. If Lara sometimes tested my patience, it felt believable given her circumstances. Their push-pull dynamic made the eventual connection all the more rewarding.
Overall, Prince of Control is a strong start to the Bratva Heirs series, setting the stage for more intrigue, danger, and passion. For fans of dark mafia romance, Renee Rose once again proves why she’s an automatic read.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Renee Rose delivers another intense Mafia romance, this time with the next generation of the Chicago Bratva. Prince of Control introduces Benjamin “Baron” Baranov, a young Bratva heir whose maturity, strength, and protective instincts come from both trauma and responsibility.
Lara, on the other hand, begins the story overwhelmed, uprooted, and hostile. Forced into a marriage she never wanted, she sees enemies everywhere, including the man sworn to protect her. Her resistance, her distrust, and her anger make her hard to love at first, but her gradual transformation adds depth to their story.
This book is filled with classic tropes that Bratva fans love: enemies-to-lovers tension, forced proximity, and dark family secrets, with just enough heat to keep the pages burning. The chemistry between Lara and Ben is undeniable, with steamy scenes that lean into mild BDSM without overshadowing the emotional journey.
What worked most for me was Baron himself. He carries the story: gentle yet alpha, protective yet vulnerable, willing to sacrifice everything for the people he loves. He may be ruthless when he has to be, but with Lara, he reveals a rare tenderness beneath the steel. If Lara sometimes tested my patience, it felt believable given her circumstances. Their push-pull dynamic made the eventual connection all the more rewarding.
Overall, Prince of Control is a strong start to the Bratva Heirs series, setting the stage for more intrigue, danger, and passion. For fans of dark mafia romance, Renee Rose once again proves why she’s an automatic read.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 5, 2025
Lara and Benjamin are heirs to their respective bratva fathers. Both college age, Lara is attending school in Paris. But she ends up attracting the attention of a less than desirable person so her dad enlists the help of Benjamins dad to protect her. While Benjamin is told the whole story, Lara is forced to travel to the US to honor an arranged marriage agreement between the families. The tale takes a number of twists and turns. I couldn't put it down!
September 21, 2025
A spectacular Bratva read, tremendous characters and a wonderful plot
Lara Turgeneva had been sent to a family friend by her father he had learned that his daughter was at risk by a boy that had been showing an interest in her. Her father having been threatened had known the only family he could call on were the Baranov Bratva and so had asked if his daughter could be married to their son Benjamin to keep her safe.
When Benjamin known to his friends as “Baron” first meets Lara he knows that he has met his soul mate and he knows that marrying her will be the best thing he has done even though he is twenty two but with the age and experience of someone twice his age.
Baron knows that there is a possibility that someone is going to try and get his house on the University Campus closed, Baranov House is well known through the campus for the parties they put on and also for the Gulag, the basement where there is a BDSM dungeon,
When the Senators daughter is attacked after a party and the blame is initially laid at Barons feet it backfires because he had been with his wife and new bride Lara and when he offers her father prrof of the set up he agrees to give them time to bring the perpetrator to him where he will deal with hi personally.
This is a very intense read and I guarantee that you will be blown away by the characters and the plot it is a totally captivating and will keep you guessing to the very end.
I thoroughly enjoyed the book and look forward to reading any future publications; keep up all the wonderful writing.
Lara Turgeneva had been sent to a family friend by her father he had learned that his daughter was at risk by a boy that had been showing an interest in her. Her father having been threatened had known the only family he could call on were the Baranov Bratva and so had asked if his daughter could be married to their son Benjamin to keep her safe.
When Benjamin known to his friends as “Baron” first meets Lara he knows that he has met his soul mate and he knows that marrying her will be the best thing he has done even though he is twenty two but with the age and experience of someone twice his age.
Baron knows that there is a possibility that someone is going to try and get his house on the University Campus closed, Baranov House is well known through the campus for the parties they put on and also for the Gulag, the basement where there is a BDSM dungeon,
When the Senators daughter is attacked after a party and the blame is initially laid at Barons feet it backfires because he had been with his wife and new bride Lara and when he offers her father prrof of the set up he agrees to give them time to bring the perpetrator to him where he will deal with hi personally.
This is a very intense read and I guarantee that you will be blown away by the characters and the plot it is a totally captivating and will keep you guessing to the very end.
I thoroughly enjoyed the book and look forward to reading any future publications; keep up all the wonderful writing.
September 27, 2025
I loved it…
This well written page turner has you hooked from the beginning to the end. The children of the Chicago Bratva are all grown up and making their own way in the world. They’ve got their own hierarchy with Ravil’s son Benjamin Baranov aka Baron as their Pakhan in the making. His upbringing has shaped him into a born leader, fiercely loyal and very protective of those in his inner circle. When Ben’s father asks him to provide protection for Adrian’s daughter Lara by marrying her he doesn’t hesitate, he’s all in. If only they were just as honest with Lara… I received a free copy of this book. This review was posted voluntarily.
This well written page turner has you hooked from the beginning to the end. The children of the Chicago Bratva are all grown up and making their own way in the world. They’ve got their own hierarchy with Ravil’s son Benjamin Baranov aka Baron as their Pakhan in the making. His upbringing has shaped him into a born leader, fiercely loyal and very protective of those in his inner circle. When Ben’s father asks him to provide protection for Adrian’s daughter Lara by marrying her he doesn’t hesitate, he’s all in. If only they were just as honest with Lara… I received a free copy of this book. This review was posted voluntarily.
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September 30, 2025
I have always loved this series, and this one is one of my favorites. 5 stars
September 25, 2025
Ben and Lara's romance was emotional and exciting. I was super excited to jump into this new series that is about the kids of the characters from The Chicago Bratva series. I enjoyed the cameos, and I loved meeting the new characters. Don't worry if you haven't read that series as this book stands alone just fine but if you find yourself tempted, I highly recommend it. Drama, action, heart, emotion, steam, sweetness, heart and twists are woven into an attention grabbing and swoon worthy romance that has me very eager to read future books in this series.
September 26, 2025
Awesome!!! Love! Love! Loved this book. It kept me on the edge of my seat. I read it straight through. I had to know the final outcome. I was totally vested in these characters and their journey. It is a must read book!!!
October 6, 2025
I read the Chicago Bratva series and loved it. Due to "soap opera aging", the next generation has arrived. Baron/Ben, the oldest son of the couple from the first Chicago Bratva book, has established himself at college. He set up the Baranov House and runs all its ventures, both legal and illegal, while completing his college degree.
He is his father's son and still suffers from a trauma that occured when he was ten years old. He needs to be in control and is very protective of his friends and all weaker targets of bullies. When he is asked to marry Lara in order to keep her safe, he immediately agrees. Unfortunately, Lara isn't told what's going on and is led to believe by her father that Baron's father is threatening them into the marriage. Baron decides to let her believe the lie instead of telling her the truth, which is that the other man who wants to marry her is dangerous.
Despite her anger, Lara begins to fall for Baron who treats her with care and respect. They have a bumpy ride with a lot of heat and it was hard for me to put the book down. The other inhabitants of the Baranov House are also interesting and there is underlying intrigue involving a feud with another house and the continuing danger from Lara's other suitor. There are a lot of characters to choose from for the next book in this series which I cannot wait for.
This story has everything I enjoy - bratva, romance, patience, heat, intrigue, danger and a real story line with developed characters. The bad guys get what's coming to them and Baron and Lara get their HEA. There is so much potential for other characters in this series.
He is his father's son and still suffers from a trauma that occured when he was ten years old. He needs to be in control and is very protective of his friends and all weaker targets of bullies. When he is asked to marry Lara in order to keep her safe, he immediately agrees. Unfortunately, Lara isn't told what's going on and is led to believe by her father that Baron's father is threatening them into the marriage. Baron decides to let her believe the lie instead of telling her the truth, which is that the other man who wants to marry her is dangerous.
Despite her anger, Lara begins to fall for Baron who treats her with care and respect. They have a bumpy ride with a lot of heat and it was hard for me to put the book down. The other inhabitants of the Baranov House are also interesting and there is underlying intrigue involving a feud with another house and the continuing danger from Lara's other suitor. There are a lot of characters to choose from for the next book in this series which I cannot wait for.
This story has everything I enjoy - bratva, romance, patience, heat, intrigue, danger and a real story line with developed characters. The bad guys get what's coming to them and Baron and Lara get their HEA. There is so much potential for other characters in this series.
October 13, 2025
I was sooooooo excited for this book, and I'm glad I finally had time to read it. I love the entire 'Las Vegas Mafia' and 'Chicago Bratva' world Renee Rose has, so I welcomed this new series with wide open arms.
I was a little bit worried that I wouldn't like this series as much as I did the others, because I'm not that big a fan of book series surrounding universities (maybe because I'm not an American myself and I find the USA university life always sounds like way too much drama 🤣), but I have to admit that I didn't really mind it in this book.
As has been the case with almost every book where the name 'Renee Rose' is on the cover, I liked the writing style. I find it so easy to read, pulling me into the story in just a few seconds.
I liked it.
If you'd like to read about more books I liked, check out my Goodreads profile. I also sometimes post reviews on Instagram and talk about bookish stuff on Threads.
I was a little bit worried that I wouldn't like this series as much as I did the others, because I'm not that big a fan of book series surrounding universities (maybe because I'm not an American myself and I find the USA university life always sounds like way too much drama 🤣), but I have to admit that I didn't really mind it in this book.
As has been the case with almost every book where the name 'Renee Rose' is on the cover, I liked the writing style. I find it so easy to read, pulling me into the story in just a few seconds.
I liked it.
If you'd like to read about more books I liked, check out my Goodreads profile. I also sometimes post reviews on Instagram and talk about bookish stuff on Threads.
October 4, 2025
Jeez, this cover. Read it anyway if you love a conflicted Bratva hero. He’s haunted but not as histrionic as the cover makes it seem.
November 11, 2025
Prince of Control is the first standalone book in the Bratva Heirs Series. A spin-off of the USA Today Bestselling Chicago Bratva series. It’s all the bratva goodness you desire, but set at Thornecroft University, where loyalty is currency, secrets are deadly, and love could ruin you or save you. A full-length standalone romance with a guaranteed happily-ever-after. Expect enemies-to-lovers intensity, forced proximity heat, and the dark, dangerous heirs of the bratva world. Includes scenes of violence and explicit content intended for mature readers only. A brilliantly crafted story with complex individuals and a twisty storyline that grabs the reader attention from the start and keeps you hooked and on the edge of your seat with it's pulse-pounding suspense, high-octane action, non-stop twists and turns, panty-melting passion, and secrecy. Dangerous. Twisted. Dark. Compelling. Captivating. Delicious. A fast paced, thrilling, and gripping story. Hang on to your seat and prepare yourself for this mind-blowing rollercoaster ride filled with heart-stopping danger, violence, deception, lies, betrayals, tension and emotions. An absorbing addictive and unputdownable read.
👰♂️🤵Arranged Marriage Romance
☠️☠️Russian Bratva Romance
🔫🔪Touch-her-and-Die Romance
💀☠️Dark Mafia Romance
♟️Enemies-to-Lovers Romance
♟️Hate-to-Love Vibes Story
☑️Dark Academia Story
☑️👰♂️Forced Marriage Romance
☑️Forced Proximity Romance
☑️Billionaires & Millionaires Romance
☠️☠️Organize Crime Story
☑️Contemporary Romance
☑️College Romance
🔥♨️Steam Galore, BDSM
❤️🔥Possessiveness, Obsession
☑️Protective Alpha Hero Story
☑️He-Falls-First-and-Harder Story
☑️Lust-at-first-Sight Story
☑️Trauma, Threats, Fear, Humor
Mafia prince Benjamin Baranov a.k.a. Baron is the heir of pakhan Ravil Baranov from The Director from the Chicago Bratva Series. He's twenty-two years old and a senior at the Thornecroft University and cut from the same cloth as his father. He's calculated, ruthless, protective and loyal. He's a boss like his dad in his own rights, and even setup a house call The Galug at the The Baranov similar to The Kremlin where he grew up campus. He have some of his friends who were born into the mafia families who all have a set of special skills. And Baron will do anything for these guys even kill. He's very protective of his friends and anyone that he loves and exercise complete control in all things. The Galug is the hot spot because of the weekly parties and the BDSM dungeon with all it's sexual proclivities. Everyone wants to get an invite. Baron's dad call him and asked him to marry his friend Adrian daughter to protect her because she was in danger.
Adrian is in fear for his daughter's life because Rosov bratva family wants an alliance with him. And he couldn't allow that to happen, once his dad explained the reason he agrees to marriage. Twenty-two year old Lara Turgeneva is the mafia princess of Adrian Turgeneva from The Cleaner living in Paris and living her best life. She's beautiful, intelligent, fierce, defiant and sassy. She's in her last year of school and will start her internship after. It's an internship that she has worked hard to get. But one day her dad came to her apartment and told her that she had to leave her school and transfer to the Thornecroft University in Illinois and that he had arranged a marriage for her with Benjamin Baranov. She was pissed because she would be walking away from an internship that she had bust her ass to get.
Her dad leave her in the dark on why she suddenly had to uproot her life and get married. When Baron saw her he was instantly attracted to her. Her dad didn't believe that he could trust her with the truth. Baron didn't know that her father didn't tell her why she had to get married and he didn't believe that it was his place to tell her so he kept the information to himself. When Lara got to Illinois her relationship with Baron was tumultuous and she not only resented him but also hated him. Baron knows the who wanted to marry her and know that it would be disastrous because Brash Rosov is sociopathic and monstrous. The more time that they spend together the started to fall for each other and Baron became controlling, overprotective, and possessive. Their chemistry was electrifying, erotic, spicy and magnetic, the two burn up the sheets. Brash doesn't care that Lara is married and still wants her and pursuing her. When Brash come to get Lara Baron will burn the world down for what was is he show that he was truly the heir of the Baranov empire with his ruthlessness, brutality and violence. What will happen when Lara discovered that her dad lied to her on the reasons why she had to get married so abruptly? And how will she react to the news that her now husband was privy
to the reasons but she wasn't trusted with the information? Will she be able to forgive both her husband and dad for their deception? Will the two get their HEA? Will Baron successfully able to protect Lara and defeat Brash and his family?
I received an advanced copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
👰♂️🤵Arranged Marriage Romance
☠️☠️Russian Bratva Romance
🔫🔪Touch-her-and-Die Romance
💀☠️Dark Mafia Romance
♟️Enemies-to-Lovers Romance
♟️Hate-to-Love Vibes Story
☑️Dark Academia Story
☑️👰♂️Forced Marriage Romance
☑️Forced Proximity Romance
☑️Billionaires & Millionaires Romance
☠️☠️Organize Crime Story
☑️Contemporary Romance
☑️College Romance
🔥♨️Steam Galore, BDSM
❤️🔥Possessiveness, Obsession
☑️Protective Alpha Hero Story
☑️He-Falls-First-and-Harder Story
☑️Lust-at-first-Sight Story
☑️Trauma, Threats, Fear, Humor
Mafia prince Benjamin Baranov a.k.a. Baron is the heir of pakhan Ravil Baranov from The Director from the Chicago Bratva Series. He's twenty-two years old and a senior at the Thornecroft University and cut from the same cloth as his father. He's calculated, ruthless, protective and loyal. He's a boss like his dad in his own rights, and even setup a house call The Galug at the The Baranov similar to The Kremlin where he grew up campus. He have some of his friends who were born into the mafia families who all have a set of special skills. And Baron will do anything for these guys even kill. He's very protective of his friends and anyone that he loves and exercise complete control in all things. The Galug is the hot spot because of the weekly parties and the BDSM dungeon with all it's sexual proclivities. Everyone wants to get an invite. Baron's dad call him and asked him to marry his friend Adrian daughter to protect her because she was in danger.
Adrian is in fear for his daughter's life because Rosov bratva family wants an alliance with him. And he couldn't allow that to happen, once his dad explained the reason he agrees to marriage. Twenty-two year old Lara Turgeneva is the mafia princess of Adrian Turgeneva from The Cleaner living in Paris and living her best life. She's beautiful, intelligent, fierce, defiant and sassy. She's in her last year of school and will start her internship after. It's an internship that she has worked hard to get. But one day her dad came to her apartment and told her that she had to leave her school and transfer to the Thornecroft University in Illinois and that he had arranged a marriage for her with Benjamin Baranov. She was pissed because she would be walking away from an internship that she had bust her ass to get.
Her dad leave her in the dark on why she suddenly had to uproot her life and get married. When Baron saw her he was instantly attracted to her. Her dad didn't believe that he could trust her with the truth. Baron didn't know that her father didn't tell her why she had to get married and he didn't believe that it was his place to tell her so he kept the information to himself. When Lara got to Illinois her relationship with Baron was tumultuous and she not only resented him but also hated him. Baron knows the who wanted to marry her and know that it would be disastrous because Brash Rosov is sociopathic and monstrous. The more time that they spend together the started to fall for each other and Baron became controlling, overprotective, and possessive. Their chemistry was electrifying, erotic, spicy and magnetic, the two burn up the sheets. Brash doesn't care that Lara is married and still wants her and pursuing her. When Brash come to get Lara Baron will burn the world down for what was is he show that he was truly the heir of the Baranov empire with his ruthlessness, brutality and violence. What will happen when Lara discovered that her dad lied to her on the reasons why she had to get married so abruptly? And how will she react to the news that her now husband was privy
to the reasons but she wasn't trusted with the information? Will she be able to forgive both her husband and dad for their deception? Will the two get their HEA? Will Baron successfully able to protect Lara and defeat Brash and his family?
I received an advanced copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 27, 2025
Renee’s Chicago Bratva series is one of my favorite mafia series that I have read. So when she announced her second generation series I was so very excited. I started a reread of the series and it made me even more eager for the release. I love watching some of our favorite characters parent and see how their relationships have grown over the years.
Benjamin Baranov is all grown up and living his life at Thornecroft University. Baron, to his friends, is the man on campus all the girls want and all men are envious of. He has an air of aloofness that plays into the persona so well. Benjamin is well aware of his standing on campus and uses it to his advantage. Fiercely protective of those that he considers his family, blood, found and Bratva. He works hard to set his own path and is working hard to create his own path in life. Baron has created a “cell” of his own and they are all their own family. Benjamin takes protectiveness to a whole new level with all of his friends and in turn they are extremely loyal to him.
Lara Turgeneva is a mafia princess with a protective Bratva father. Lara finds herself plucked from her happy life in Paris and on a plane to Illinois to marry. I feel like Lara adapted and took her arranged marriage to Benjamin very well, especially for being kept so in the dark about why she needed to marry Benjamin. While it might have taken Lara a little bit she did find her place in the “cell” at Thornecroft and they easily took her in as one of theirs. Ben and Lara might be young but the pair obviously share a connection from the start. I love how many see Ben as so stoic but he shows his softer side for Lara from the start. He really works to see things from her perspective and does what he can to ease the change while also keeping her safety a top priority- and he is just as protective and possessive as his father. Which is hard because Ravil is one possessive guy. And these two lit the pages on fire! Their banter made me giddy and the way that they challenged one another really added to the excitement of the book.
I also feel like I would be remiss if I didn’t mention how amazing Thornecroft sounds. I love the descriptions that Renee used and I could picture the beautiful setting on the Wisconsin and Illinois border. If you enjoy dark romance or mafia romance I would highly recommend this book! I am so excited for what is next in this series!
Benjamin Baranov is all grown up and living his life at Thornecroft University. Baron, to his friends, is the man on campus all the girls want and all men are envious of. He has an air of aloofness that plays into the persona so well. Benjamin is well aware of his standing on campus and uses it to his advantage. Fiercely protective of those that he considers his family, blood, found and Bratva. He works hard to set his own path and is working hard to create his own path in life. Baron has created a “cell” of his own and they are all their own family. Benjamin takes protectiveness to a whole new level with all of his friends and in turn they are extremely loyal to him.
Lara Turgeneva is a mafia princess with a protective Bratva father. Lara finds herself plucked from her happy life in Paris and on a plane to Illinois to marry. I feel like Lara adapted and took her arranged marriage to Benjamin very well, especially for being kept so in the dark about why she needed to marry Benjamin. While it might have taken Lara a little bit she did find her place in the “cell” at Thornecroft and they easily took her in as one of theirs. Ben and Lara might be young but the pair obviously share a connection from the start. I love how many see Ben as so stoic but he shows his softer side for Lara from the start. He really works to see things from her perspective and does what he can to ease the change while also keeping her safety a top priority- and he is just as protective and possessive as his father. Which is hard because Ravil is one possessive guy. And these two lit the pages on fire! Their banter made me giddy and the way that they challenged one another really added to the excitement of the book.
I also feel like I would be remiss if I didn’t mention how amazing Thornecroft sounds. I love the descriptions that Renee used and I could picture the beautiful setting on the Wisconsin and Illinois border. If you enjoy dark romance or mafia romance I would highly recommend this book! I am so excited for what is next in this series!
December 28, 2025
Welcome to the Bratva Heirs, where control is power, and one woman who refuses to be controlled finds out what it means to be owned by a man who is not only cold, calculating, and a master manipulator, but commands the very space he walks, an iron fist he wields with such control, because Benjamin isn’t playing a game, he's writing the rules and Lara must prepare herself, before desire consumes her.
Their journey is fraught with challenges, where decisions have consequences, every step they take tests their strength, loyalty and trust, tension runs high, as their simmering passion ignites, a chemistry so undeniable that it will leave you on the precipice of the heart stopping suspense that will have you expressing emotions as they deal with the fall out of the betrayal, revenge there only recourse.
If you want a book that will have you on the edge, this is it, because Benjamin, whilst he exudes a dark and dangerous persona, he is fiercely protective of his girl, yet it’s Lara’s independence and her fire that makes him love her all the more. Lara proves she is no meek woman, she will not be silenced.
Benjamin and Lara are well suited for each other, yet one can’t help but admire the depth of his character when he showed care and warmth, despite his heartwarming nature, these two strong willed characters clashed, setting the pages alight, drawing them back to each other, drawing us readers into there story, right up to the end.
Lara showed strength and tenacity when faced with an impossible situation, a spitfire at heart, she showed strength despite her own anger and confusion, having always lived her life on her own terms, her fathers involvement tells her she must accept that facts as is, yet the feelings she developed for Benjamin changed everything for her, and when the truth was revealed, it changed her perception of everything she thought she knew.
Benjamin’s duty and loyalty has always been to his father, not once did he hesitate, because marrying Lara, to keep her safe, a union wanted by both families, yet the only thing that he didn’t foresee, was asking that all important question, what does Lara want? Everything that Lara felt, Benjamin could have avoided if he took the time to have a conversation, all this hurt, over a misunderstanding would have saved them both so much anguish in the end.
Highly recommend both the author and the book. Looking forward to seeing what this author writes next.
Their journey is fraught with challenges, where decisions have consequences, every step they take tests their strength, loyalty and trust, tension runs high, as their simmering passion ignites, a chemistry so undeniable that it will leave you on the precipice of the heart stopping suspense that will have you expressing emotions as they deal with the fall out of the betrayal, revenge there only recourse.
If you want a book that will have you on the edge, this is it, because Benjamin, whilst he exudes a dark and dangerous persona, he is fiercely protective of his girl, yet it’s Lara’s independence and her fire that makes him love her all the more. Lara proves she is no meek woman, she will not be silenced.
Benjamin and Lara are well suited for each other, yet one can’t help but admire the depth of his character when he showed care and warmth, despite his heartwarming nature, these two strong willed characters clashed, setting the pages alight, drawing them back to each other, drawing us readers into there story, right up to the end.
Lara showed strength and tenacity when faced with an impossible situation, a spitfire at heart, she showed strength despite her own anger and confusion, having always lived her life on her own terms, her fathers involvement tells her she must accept that facts as is, yet the feelings she developed for Benjamin changed everything for her, and when the truth was revealed, it changed her perception of everything she thought she knew.
Benjamin’s duty and loyalty has always been to his father, not once did he hesitate, because marrying Lara, to keep her safe, a union wanted by both families, yet the only thing that he didn’t foresee, was asking that all important question, what does Lara want? Everything that Lara felt, Benjamin could have avoided if he took the time to have a conversation, all this hurt, over a misunderstanding would have saved them both so much anguish in the end.
Highly recommend both the author and the book. Looking forward to seeing what this author writes next.
September 30, 2025
I absolutely loved this book! Benjamin is just *mwah* the perfect mmc! Protective, stubborn, controlling, dominant and controlling, he doesn’t just want to be in control he needs it, in all aspects of his life. He is ott protective about all those who he cares about and are under his protection. When his father asks him to marry Lara to protect her from a dangerous family who wants to use her as a pawn Benjamin agrees, and intends the marriage to be on paper only, but when he meets her he realises that it’s going to be so much more than that, and he will go to any lengths to protect her and make her fall for him.
Lara is furious when her father turns up one day and announces to her that she’s been betrothed to Benjamin, the Chicago bratva heir, since birth and she is to leave her life in Paris and move to Illinois to get married. She goes along with the order from her father as she believes that her parents are in danger and this is the only way to save protect the,, but she is not going to make it easy for Benjamin. But Lara doesn’t know what the real reason is and what danger lurks around the corner and who really poses a risk to her safety, when it arrives from Paris to follow through with their plans. Can Benjamin keep Lara safe and win her heart?
Renee has done it again and wrote an amazing mafia story. The characters are very well written and their back stories are well developed and written. I absolutely loved Benjamin, his past was sad and I could totally understand why he is the way he is and his need for control. I loved the chemistry between Ben and Lara, and also the dynamics between the group as a whole. I cannot wait to read more in this series, I hope there are more planned!
I would 100% recommend this to anyone who likes mafia/bratva romance, I couldn’t put it down!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Lara is furious when her father turns up one day and announces to her that she’s been betrothed to Benjamin, the Chicago bratva heir, since birth and she is to leave her life in Paris and move to Illinois to get married. She goes along with the order from her father as she believes that her parents are in danger and this is the only way to save protect the,, but she is not going to make it easy for Benjamin. But Lara doesn’t know what the real reason is and what danger lurks around the corner and who really poses a risk to her safety, when it arrives from Paris to follow through with their plans. Can Benjamin keep Lara safe and win her heart?
Renee has done it again and wrote an amazing mafia story. The characters are very well written and their back stories are well developed and written. I absolutely loved Benjamin, his past was sad and I could totally understand why he is the way he is and his need for control. I loved the chemistry between Ben and Lara, and also the dynamics between the group as a whole. I cannot wait to read more in this series, I hope there are more planned!
I would 100% recommend this to anyone who likes mafia/bratva romance, I couldn’t put it down!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 5, 2025
Renee rose did it again, she writes amazing mafia style books.
Benjamin Baranov or Baron...caring, loving, controlling not because he's a bad person because he feels that if he can be in control of every situation he can keep his people safe. He protects all his friends, family anyone who is deemed as weak and are bullied. Ben is dom at heart but not in a sexual sense not until he meets his wife anyway.
Lana is sweet, kind and loving but she's lonely and hurt because to her she was moved from Paris and told men had made marriage plans for her future when she was just a baby. She gets of the plane oh so angry at her husband to be angry at her father, her new father in law because she is a pawn but Lana doesn't know the truth.
The truth being that Baron only found out about Lana days previous that he was told that abrasha an enemy had taken an interest in Lana, who is his dad's best friends daughter. Brash is a psychopath and so are his family he's sadistic he doesn't care for women at all. Lana's dad had told brash he couldn't marry Lana as she had been betrothed to Baron from birth. When barons dad tells him what Lana's dad said he immediately agreed to protect Lana and marry her however when picking up his bride he expected her to know what was really happening but she didn't and he realised he didn't want a marriage on paper he wanted the real deal.
The have chemistry. Lara reacts to Barons dominance like a moth to a flame but can they build a relationship from chemistry? What happens when the people he was saving her from arrive and he still hasn't told her the truth? Will she forgive him? Will she see his good intentions before it's too late.
Dark academia romance novel. With forced proximity, arranged marriage, Bratva.
Fantastically written, every Renee rose book I've read I've loved and this is no different.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Benjamin Baranov or Baron...caring, loving, controlling not because he's a bad person because he feels that if he can be in control of every situation he can keep his people safe. He protects all his friends, family anyone who is deemed as weak and are bullied. Ben is dom at heart but not in a sexual sense not until he meets his wife anyway.
Lana is sweet, kind and loving but she's lonely and hurt because to her she was moved from Paris and told men had made marriage plans for her future when she was just a baby. She gets of the plane oh so angry at her husband to be angry at her father, her new father in law because she is a pawn but Lana doesn't know the truth.
The truth being that Baron only found out about Lana days previous that he was told that abrasha an enemy had taken an interest in Lana, who is his dad's best friends daughter. Brash is a psychopath and so are his family he's sadistic he doesn't care for women at all. Lana's dad had told brash he couldn't marry Lana as she had been betrothed to Baron from birth. When barons dad tells him what Lana's dad said he immediately agreed to protect Lana and marry her however when picking up his bride he expected her to know what was really happening but she didn't and he realised he didn't want a marriage on paper he wanted the real deal.
The have chemistry. Lara reacts to Barons dominance like a moth to a flame but can they build a relationship from chemistry? What happens when the people he was saving her from arrive and he still hasn't told her the truth? Will she forgive him? Will she see his good intentions before it's too late.
Dark academia romance novel. With forced proximity, arranged marriage, Bratva.
Fantastically written, every Renee rose book I've read I've loved and this is no different.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 21, 2025
Prince of Control is aptly named. Ben is a total control freak, someone who needs to manage everything and everyone in his life. So when his father asks him to marry his friend’s daughter to keep her safe in their bratva world, she becomes one more thing to manage—until he sees her and realizes she’ll mean much more to him.
This is a true insta-love tale on the part of the hero. He’s basically gone for her without knowing much about her at all. Lara takes longer to adjust to her situation, mainly because she doesn’t know why Baron has married her, which ends up causing more difficulties than either might expect.
Rose knows how to write these stories beautifully by now, having done so in her wonderful Chicago Bratva series. This is the start of basically Chicago Bratva: The Next Generation, as the characters are the children of the protagonists from the first series. But I struggled with this read.
I think it’s because the characters are all college students, yet they’re running their own home with spy networks and kink dungeons and all sorts of things that made all the characters feel like they were in their 30s rather than 20 years old. It was hard for me to believe they were college students just learning to be on their own in life with all they were doing.
Baron is also called Ben or Benjamin, and that got rather confusing. I also wondered why he didn’t just ask Lara’s father if he could tell her the truth about why they married due to the difficulties it was causing him for her not to know. This couple builds their relationship through the physical side, and Rose writes so the steam fairly radiates from the pages.
This was a 3 ½ star read for me that I’m rounding up to 4 stars due to the strength of Rose’s writing. She does mafia romance so well.
This is a true insta-love tale on the part of the hero. He’s basically gone for her without knowing much about her at all. Lara takes longer to adjust to her situation, mainly because she doesn’t know why Baron has married her, which ends up causing more difficulties than either might expect.
Rose knows how to write these stories beautifully by now, having done so in her wonderful Chicago Bratva series. This is the start of basically Chicago Bratva: The Next Generation, as the characters are the children of the protagonists from the first series. But I struggled with this read.
I think it’s because the characters are all college students, yet they’re running their own home with spy networks and kink dungeons and all sorts of things that made all the characters feel like they were in their 30s rather than 20 years old. It was hard for me to believe they were college students just learning to be on their own in life with all they were doing.
Baron is also called Ben or Benjamin, and that got rather confusing. I also wondered why he didn’t just ask Lara’s father if he could tell her the truth about why they married due to the difficulties it was causing him for her not to know. This couple builds their relationship through the physical side, and Rose writes so the steam fairly radiates from the pages.
This was a 3 ½ star read for me that I’m rounding up to 4 stars due to the strength of Rose’s writing. She does mafia romance so well.
September 23, 2025
Benjamin Baranov is the Pakhan’s son and rules is own group. When he is asked to protect and marry his father’s friends daughter, he agrees. Lara has no idea what is going on. One minute she is in Paris on her last year of college the next on a plane to Illinois to marry Ben. She doesn’t even know him. An order from her father Adrian. But there is a reason. Rosov family wants an alliance with Adrian and that is not going to happen. Now it’s all hands on deck to protect Lara. It was supposed to be a marriage in name only but once Ben sees her, she is his.
I have to say this is soooo good. Let’s face it, the kids of the Chicago Bratva having their story, YES. I am loving it. The Prince is like his father and has his own cell. I was kind of upset that Adrian didn’t trust his daughter Lara enough to tell her. I’m sure Kat wasn’t too pleased either. Their relationship starts off rocky. We understand why. Ben aka as Baron knows from the start that she is his future. Romantic. I do wish he would have told her about the true reasons sooner. Even his past with Brash would have been good. Things heat up and starts looking great but then it all falls down like a house of cards. But Ben is a fighter and isn’t going to let anyone take his woman from him. There were moments of shock and tears but it all came to a happy ending. I did the count of the kids and I can just see the pairing off. There is something about Leo and Lili. I am hoping they are next in the series. Thank you Renee. This is a wonderful new start.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I have to say this is soooo good. Let’s face it, the kids of the Chicago Bratva having their story, YES. I am loving it. The Prince is like his father and has his own cell. I was kind of upset that Adrian didn’t trust his daughter Lara enough to tell her. I’m sure Kat wasn’t too pleased either. Their relationship starts off rocky. We understand why. Ben aka as Baron knows from the start that she is his future. Romantic. I do wish he would have told her about the true reasons sooner. Even his past with Brash would have been good. Things heat up and starts looking great but then it all falls down like a house of cards. But Ben is a fighter and isn’t going to let anyone take his woman from him. There were moments of shock and tears but it all came to a happy ending. I did the count of the kids and I can just see the pairing off. There is something about Leo and Lili. I am hoping they are next in the series. Thank you Renee. This is a wonderful new start.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 26, 2025
"A possessiveness rises up in me that I've never felt before."
Let me start by stating that this book was even better than I thought it would be. "The Director" is not only my favorite book in the Chicago Bratva series, it's also my very favorite book out of all of Renee's, so of course I was excited that Ravil and Lucy's son, Benjamin, was going to be the first in this new spin-off series.
Benjamin is absolutely amazing all grown up. He's actually almost exactly the person I expected him to be with two such incredible parents. I adored the way he handled Lara and also how he was so protective and caring towards his friends. Lara was a perfect match for him, even though she fought him every step. They have great chemistry, and their interactions were the highlight of the story.
I'll be honest, I felt a little cheated that this book picks up about twenty years after the last Chicago Bratva book, and I missed all the in-between time. It's like being part of a close family and then moving away and not seeing anyone for years. I hated that I missed seeing all the kids being born and growing up. But I'm happy that most of them are still happy and together, especially Adrian and Kat, so in love, even after all these years.
The only thing I didn't love about this book was the cover. I'm sorry, but he looks nothing like Benjamin. Other than that, everything else was fantastic! I can't wait for the next book in the series and have my fingers crossed that there will be lots more to come. Oh, and am I the only one who thinks Leo might have a thing for Lili? I guess we'll see...
Solid five stars.
Let me start by stating that this book was even better than I thought it would be. "The Director" is not only my favorite book in the Chicago Bratva series, it's also my very favorite book out of all of Renee's, so of course I was excited that Ravil and Lucy's son, Benjamin, was going to be the first in this new spin-off series.
Benjamin is absolutely amazing all grown up. He's actually almost exactly the person I expected him to be with two such incredible parents. I adored the way he handled Lara and also how he was so protective and caring towards his friends. Lara was a perfect match for him, even though she fought him every step. They have great chemistry, and their interactions were the highlight of the story.
I'll be honest, I felt a little cheated that this book picks up about twenty years after the last Chicago Bratva book, and I missed all the in-between time. It's like being part of a close family and then moving away and not seeing anyone for years. I hated that I missed seeing all the kids being born and growing up. But I'm happy that most of them are still happy and together, especially Adrian and Kat, so in love, even after all these years.
The only thing I didn't love about this book was the cover. I'm sorry, but he looks nothing like Benjamin. Other than that, everything else was fantastic! I can't wait for the next book in the series and have my fingers crossed that there will be lots more to come. Oh, and am I the only one who thinks Leo might have a thing for Lili? I guess we'll see...
Solid five stars.
October 16, 2025
"Prince of Control" is the first book in Renee Rose's new series, "Bratva Heirs," and it perfectly lives up to its title. Ben is a natural leader, following in his father's footsteps, and takes his responsibilities seriously. Lara is a strong, independent woman who is well-suited to be Ben's queen. He understands his duty: to marry and protect Lara at all costs. However, when she steps off the plane, everything shifts. He quickly realizes she harbors anger towards him, and he’s completely in the dark about the reason.
Managing his responsibilities at the Grug and attending classes, he has a wife and sister to protect. Lara knows precisely how to get under Ben’s skin, and she isn’t shy about doing it—engaging with a greedy kid over drinks while Ben stands ready to shield her. As Lara begins to develop new feelings for her husband, it’s a positive evolution. However, Ben knows he has crucial information to share with her—something her father should have told her long ago. Before he has a chance, Brash intervenes, takes Lara away, and reveals the news Ben intended to share, igniting her fury and driving her to leave him.
This story is compelling, intense, and rife with protective elements, clearly deserving more than five stars. It concludes brilliantly, and I anticipate more excitement to come! It delivers an intense, seductive romance that captivates with its blend of dominance, vulnerability, and undeniable chemistry. Renee Rose expertly crafts a narrative that is both emotionally charged and wildly steamy, striking a perfect balance between strength and surrender. The characters are complex and flawed, and their magnetic connection feels authentic and raw. This book is a powerhouse from start to finish—a must-read for dark romance enthusiasts.
Managing his responsibilities at the Grug and attending classes, he has a wife and sister to protect. Lara knows precisely how to get under Ben’s skin, and she isn’t shy about doing it—engaging with a greedy kid over drinks while Ben stands ready to shield her. As Lara begins to develop new feelings for her husband, it’s a positive evolution. However, Ben knows he has crucial information to share with her—something her father should have told her long ago. Before he has a chance, Brash intervenes, takes Lara away, and reveals the news Ben intended to share, igniting her fury and driving her to leave him.
This story is compelling, intense, and rife with protective elements, clearly deserving more than five stars. It concludes brilliantly, and I anticipate more excitement to come! It delivers an intense, seductive romance that captivates with its blend of dominance, vulnerability, and undeniable chemistry. Renee Rose expertly crafts a narrative that is both emotionally charged and wildly steamy, striking a perfect balance between strength and surrender. The characters are complex and flawed, and their magnetic connection feels authentic and raw. This book is a powerhouse from start to finish—a must-read for dark romance enthusiasts.
September 24, 2025
The son of Ravil and Lucy Baranov, Benjamin is all grown up and a senior at Thornecroft University. Ben (AKA Baron) is the leader of several of the offspring of the original Bratva who grew up living at The Kremlin in Chicago, now living at place called The Galug, for the Baranov House on campus as well as a few others who would have been bullied at school. Because his father asked a favor of him when his younger sister dropped off for freshman year at Thornecroft, he found himself engaged to Lara, daughter of Adrian and Kat Turgenev who relocated to Moscow from Chicago to run the Bratva branch for Ravil. There was offer from Russian Oligarch Anatoli Rostov to merge Adrian's Bratva and Rostov's holdings through marriage between Lara and Anatoli's son Abrash (AKA Brash) Rostov...Adrian refused saying when she was born, he and Ravil made marriage pact for their children...Baron knew Brash from boarding school and knew what a psychopath he was, readily agreed to the match...but Lara was lied to by her father about situation...She was told Ravil called for marriage now, and she had to leave her school in Paris and internship she worked for since in college...to say the least not happy and not looking forward to marrying a stranger...but you will need to read the story to see if these two opposites can work it out or if they divorce after time period. I read this book through an Advanced Reader Copy and am voluntarily leaving the review.
October 14, 2025
In Renee Rose’s Prince of Control, the first book in the Bratva Heirs series, readers are pulled into a world where power, loyalty, and passion collide. Benjamin Baranov is a man born to lead strong, disciplined, and deeply protective. Control is everything to him, and he’s not used to being challenged. That changes the moment Lara enters his life.
Lara is fiery, independent, and determined to stand her ground, even when fate traps her in a marriage to the one man she swore to hate. Ben may have stolen her future, but he soon realizes that she’s stealing his heart. Their chemistry is undeniable, a constant push and pull of dominance, defiance, and desire.
As their forced union unfolds, secrets surface, truths that could shatter what little trust they’ve built. When danger strikes and Lara is taken, the emotional intensity skyrockets. Renee Rose delivers a story that’s equal parts intriguing, intense, and deeply emotional, filled with protective instincts, betrayal, and redemption.
Ben and Lara’s journey is passionate and powerful, with plenty of twists to keep readers hooked until the very last page. The ending ties their story together beautifully while setting the stage for what promises to be an unforgettable Bratva Heirs series.
A must-read for fans of dark mafia romance who love strong heroines, commanding heroes, and a storyline that burns with tension and heart.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Lara is fiery, independent, and determined to stand her ground, even when fate traps her in a marriage to the one man she swore to hate. Ben may have stolen her future, but he soon realizes that she’s stealing his heart. Their chemistry is undeniable, a constant push and pull of dominance, defiance, and desire.
As their forced union unfolds, secrets surface, truths that could shatter what little trust they’ve built. When danger strikes and Lara is taken, the emotional intensity skyrockets. Renee Rose delivers a story that’s equal parts intriguing, intense, and deeply emotional, filled with protective instincts, betrayal, and redemption.
Ben and Lara’s journey is passionate and powerful, with plenty of twists to keep readers hooked until the very last page. The ending ties their story together beautifully while setting the stage for what promises to be an unforgettable Bratva Heirs series.
A must-read for fans of dark mafia romance who love strong heroines, commanding heroes, and a storyline that burns with tension and heart.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 30, 2025
His Princess!
I have read all of Ms.Rose's Bratva stories so reading this story brought back so many memories of the older brava gang,I enjoyed those stories just has much if not more when I read Prince of Control,the title is so fitting.Ben is a born leader,taking after his dad and he takes it seriously. Lara is strong,very independent woman and very suited to be Ben's Queen.Ben has a job to do and he understands his duty,to marry and protect Lara at all costs but when she first walks off the plane his life changed,he realizes she doesn't like him,she is mad at him,he doesn't know what he done.So now beside protecting everyone at the Grug,going to classes,he now has a wife and his sister to watch over.Lara knows what buttons to push when it comes to Ben and she pushes,talk to greedy kid,has drinks with said kid and Ben is right there to protect! Lara is also having different feeling about her new husband,which is good but Ben realizes he has something serious to tell Lara that her father should of told her,but before he can Brash shows up and takes Lara and tells he the news that Ben was going to tell her and she is so mad that she leaves him.This story is very intriguing, intense,very protective and sure worth more than five stars.It does have a great ending,and I hope there is more to come!😃😃😃😃😃
I have read all of Ms.Rose's Bratva stories so reading this story brought back so many memories of the older brava gang,I enjoyed those stories just has much if not more when I read Prince of Control,the title is so fitting.Ben is a born leader,taking after his dad and he takes it seriously. Lara is strong,very independent woman and very suited to be Ben's Queen.Ben has a job to do and he understands his duty,to marry and protect Lara at all costs but when she first walks off the plane his life changed,he realizes she doesn't like him,she is mad at him,he doesn't know what he done.So now beside protecting everyone at the Grug,going to classes,he now has a wife and his sister to watch over.Lara knows what buttons to push when it comes to Ben and she pushes,talk to greedy kid,has drinks with said kid and Ben is right there to protect! Lara is also having different feeling about her new husband,which is good but Ben realizes he has something serious to tell Lara that her father should of told her,but before he can Brash shows up and takes Lara and tells he the news that Ben was going to tell her and she is so mad that she leaves him.This story is very intriguing, intense,very protective and sure worth more than five stars.It does have a great ending,and I hope there is more to come!😃😃😃😃😃
October 1, 2025
With the start of a new series, the first book has the responsibility of introducing all the new characters, laying the foundation for an overarching storyline, and providing the hints of future coupling. In Prince of Control, we meet Ben/Baron Baranov, son of Lucy & Ravil (from the OG The Director), as a senior at Thorncroft University, where the rich and famous send their children as well as the future heirs of the underworld. Ben continues to flex the protective streak he has over his close friends as they establish an unofficial mini-Bratva cell on campus. He's prepared for the responsibilities expected of him which is why he readily agrees to an arranged marriage to Lara Tergeneva, to protect her from a sadistic Russian oligarch. She holds a lot of resentment towards Ben when her entire life in Paris is suddenly upended when she's flown to the US to marry him. He quickly realizes her father did not share the truth of her circumstance and chooses to keep the secret while she gets acclimated to her new life as his wife. There's a sizzling attraction between these two, and Ben is wise beyond his years to balance patience and his need to control his protective urges. Lara is a spitfire from the start and not a "gentile" bratva princess so these two will be a force to rule the new generation.
October 11, 2025
The next generation by MeemsAngel82
...is here!! I was SUPER thrilled that this was even happening! I mean my favorite series of Renee, then to have a whole new generation? Thank you! I didn't even think this would be a thing and yea for me, it is! I do have a favorite couple so since this is happening I'm so looking forward to them having their own offspring take center stage and find love. As in our leads here! And this generation did not disappoint! The writing is wonderful as usual. Her writing sucks me in and keeps me entertained. The plot was interesting and these characters! Like I said, DoD not disappoint!
Fated to be, she had been lied to..
First off, telling someone what they need to know is important. I felt for her because she didn't know as much as he did. And I was apprehensive about this H. I didn't know just how he was going to be, how would he treat her? Well, why do I worry?! Renee has this. He is protective and I absolutely loved that. He definitely met his match here! She is her own person and that often does not work with this man's need for control! I was loving this and I was again so excited for this book! This was exciting and filled with chemistry and I can't wait for more!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
...is here!! I was SUPER thrilled that this was even happening! I mean my favorite series of Renee, then to have a whole new generation? Thank you! I didn't even think this would be a thing and yea for me, it is! I do have a favorite couple so since this is happening I'm so looking forward to them having their own offspring take center stage and find love. As in our leads here! And this generation did not disappoint! The writing is wonderful as usual. Her writing sucks me in and keeps me entertained. The plot was interesting and these characters! Like I said, DoD not disappoint!
Fated to be, she had been lied to..
First off, telling someone what they need to know is important. I felt for her because she didn't know as much as he did. And I was apprehensive about this H. I didn't know just how he was going to be, how would he treat her? Well, why do I worry?! Renee has this. He is protective and I absolutely loved that. He definitely met his match here! She is her own person and that often does not work with this man's need for control! I was loving this and I was again so excited for this book! This was exciting and filled with chemistry and I can't wait for more!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 23, 2025
Lara is forced to marry Baron and she despises him for it! She had a life in Paris, was just starting her dream internship, had her friends and now she’s forced to move to Illinois and marry a stranger. But while she’s resistant at first, she can’t help herself giving in to him. The moment Baron saw Lara step off of that jet he knew she was his. It was like their souls spoke to each other. But he’s shocked at her attitude to him, confused as to why her father hasn’t told her the truth about their marriage. But as Baron and Lara grow closer and start falling for each other, enemies are circling and closing in. Will Baron tell her the truth before it’s too late or will Lara’s guard being up cost them both?
Ok wow. This book was short but it had so much action going on! I definitely need to circle back to the parents books at some point because I’m intrigued but it wasn’t necessary to have read them to read this. I think I’m in love with Baron tbh. He’s just so in charge all of the time and so in control. Love that! The chemistry between them was insane and the first time Lara gave in to Baron I was so excited! I can’t wait for more from this group of friends because it’s going to be amazing!
Ok wow. This book was short but it had so much action going on! I definitely need to circle back to the parents books at some point because I’m intrigued but it wasn’t necessary to have read them to read this. I think I’m in love with Baron tbh. He’s just so in charge all of the time and so in control. Love that! The chemistry between them was insane and the first time Lara gave in to Baron I was so excited! I can’t wait for more from this group of friends because it’s going to be amazing!
September 25, 2025
If you love romance and have never read a book by Renee Rose, you don’t know what you’re missing. She writes the best spicy, exciting, emotionally satisfying romances, with characters you can’t help but fall in love with. Whether the romance is shifter or mafia (I can’t pick a favorite) I know without a doubt that I am going to enjoy every minute of it.
I wasn’t sure what to expect with this second generation Bratva romance but Ben Baranov aka Baron was every inch the hero I could have hoped for even though he's a twenty-two year old college student. He's the now grown up son of Ravil and Lucy, whose own romance was told in the excellent Chicago Bratva series. He has a big heart and a driving need to protect everyone he cares about, even going so far as to marry a woman he doesn’t know in order to keep her safe from a dangerous man. Lara and Ben are an irresistible couple and their compelling story is so good I hated for it to end but I can't wait to see which Bratva heir story is next. I really, really loved this one.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I wasn’t sure what to expect with this second generation Bratva romance but Ben Baranov aka Baron was every inch the hero I could have hoped for even though he's a twenty-two year old college student. He's the now grown up son of Ravil and Lucy, whose own romance was told in the excellent Chicago Bratva series. He has a big heart and a driving need to protect everyone he cares about, even going so far as to marry a woman he doesn’t know in order to keep her safe from a dangerous man. Lara and Ben are an irresistible couple and their compelling story is so good I hated for it to end but I can't wait to see which Bratva heir story is next. I really, really loved this one.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 4, 2025
I'm not a fan of the college age troupe, but Renee Rose does a fantastic job with this new Bratva based book. Prince of Control is a strong start to the Bratva Heirs series. Baron's starting off the series with "the Gulag" as his house is known on campus, where they hold exclusive parties that have the students queuing up to attend, complete with BDSM dungeon.
Benjamin ‘Baron’ Baranov, is the son of Ravil and Lucy from the Chicago Bratva.
He rules supreme with his own personal bratva consisting of friends and found family.The daughter of daughter of Adrian and Kat, Lara is sent against her will to Baron as his wife when her father decides she needs protecting from an unsuitable suitor.
Baron, is the gentle alpha, protective to the vulnerable Lara, and willing to sacrifice everything for the people he loves.
He may be ruthless Bratva son but with Lara, he reveals a rare tenderness beneath his armor. Lara definitely tries my patience at times, but it felt relatable given her predicament. In the end she showed a strength that she was the perfect woman for Baron.
For fans of Renee Rose once again her talent in this great read.
Benjamin ‘Baron’ Baranov, is the son of Ravil and Lucy from the Chicago Bratva.
He rules supreme with his own personal bratva consisting of friends and found family.The daughter of daughter of Adrian and Kat, Lara is sent against her will to Baron as his wife when her father decides she needs protecting from an unsuitable suitor.
Baron, is the gentle alpha, protective to the vulnerable Lara, and willing to sacrifice everything for the people he loves.
He may be ruthless Bratva son but with Lara, he reveals a rare tenderness beneath his armor. Lara definitely tries my patience at times, but it felt relatable given her predicament. In the end she showed a strength that she was the perfect woman for Baron.
For fans of Renee Rose once again her talent in this great read.
October 10, 2025
I loved this book. It was a fantastic blend of dangerous excitement, romance, suspense, spice, true love, forgiveness, danger, and so much more. Very emotional Lara is hustled to America to marry Ben thinking the arranged marriage was hidden from her and that her family is in danger if she doesn’t agree. Meanwhile Ben is actually only marrying her as a favour to his dad to protect her. He has no intention of it being real until his heart stops when she walks off the plane. But she sees him as the enemy and destroyers of her life and dreams. Can he ever win her trust and heart? The chemistry is fire hit and he can’t keep his hands off her nir can she resist and slowly she comes to care for Ben until the truth is exposed in a bad way and everything falls apart putting her life in danger. Ben will do anything to get the wife he loves back and beg her forgiveness. But will any of they come out of things alive. Wonderful richly detailed characters, awesome world building of the college, and a true romantic story of young love who dare to be open and vulnerable despite violent mafia lives.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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