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Marinov Bratva #4
Anton
𝗡𝗘𝗪 𝗥𝘂𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗮𝗻 𝗠𝗮𝗳𝗶𝗮 𝘃. 𝗖𝗼𝘄𝗯𝗼𝘆 𝗠𝗮𝗳𝗶𝗮 𝗿𝗼𝗺𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲, 𝗮𝗴𝗲 𝗴𝗮𝗽, 𝗵𝗲 𝗳𝗮𝗹𝗹𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗮𝗿𝗴𝗲𝘁, 𝗴𝗿𝘂𝗺𝗽𝘆/𝘀𝘂𝗻𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗲.
When my brother orders me to kill Thora Whitlock,
there’s no hesitation.
Murder comes easy when you feel nothing.
Thora is supposed to be nothing.
The enemy’s daughter.
A woman easily erased.
So I follow her.
Study her.
Uncover all her secrets.
What I don’t expect is to speak to her.
Or watch my terrifying dog roll onto his back the second she touches him.
That should’ve been my first warning.
The second comes when I find her crying outside a bar
and do something I’ve never done before.
Bring my target home.
Thora is everything I don’t understand.
Gentle.
Stubborn.
Too brave for her own good.
And the more I touch her,
the more I realize she’s the only one
who has ever made me feel anything.
But wanting her is dangerous.
Keeping her is worse.
And when she’s taken from me,
I become the one thing I was never meant to be.
Her savior.
When my brother orders me to kill Thora Whitlock,
there’s no hesitation.
Murder comes easy when you feel nothing.
Thora is supposed to be nothing.
The enemy’s daughter.
A woman easily erased.
So I follow her.
Study her.
Uncover all her secrets.
What I don’t expect is to speak to her.
Or watch my terrifying dog roll onto his back the second she touches him.
That should’ve been my first warning.
The second comes when I find her crying outside a bar
and do something I’ve never done before.
Bring my target home.
Thora is everything I don’t understand.
Gentle.
Stubborn.
Too brave for her own good.
And the more I touch her,
the more I realize she’s the only one
who has ever made me feel anything.
But wanting her is dangerous.
Keeping her is worse.
And when she’s taken from me,
I become the one thing I was never meant to be.
Her savior.
410 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 8, 2026
About the author
Lilian Harris
115 books2,436 followersHi! I'm only on Goodreads on occassion. You may find me on my website www.LilianHarris.com
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FACEBOOK: facebook.com/LilianHarrisBooks/
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WEBSITE: lilianharris.com
EMAIL: LilianHarrisAuthor@gmail.com
Or, connect with me through social media.
Thanks!
MAILING LIST: https://lilianharrisauthor.myflodesk....
BOOKBUB:
https://www.bookbub.com/profile/lilia...
AMAZON:
https://www.amazon.com/Lilian-Harris/...
FACEBOOK: facebook.com/LilianHarrisBooks/
INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/lilianharrisauthor/
WEBSITE: lilianharris.com
EMAIL: LilianHarrisAuthor@gmail.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 271 reviews
September 14, 2026
3.75★
Safety
•virgin H, not much on h past just know she was not a V
•No others after meeting
•h: 25 yr old, past abusive relationship was sorta mentioned?
•H: I think he was older than her. Virgin, said there was opportunities but he never was interested in acting on them. He said he had never touched a woman, kissed a woman or anything before her.
•OWD: no.
•OMD: not really. Friend tries to set h up on a date, it never happens and he's not mentioned again. Parents also try to set her up with someone, she dances with him and we also never see him again.
Self notes
✦Maybe skip Jace book if its with Savannah, know they had a past and were eachothers firsts kisses & stuff while teenagers but he's a single dad now.
✦ iffy about Mikhail & Aster book, know they met 5 years ago while she was dating a POS. Don't know if they had done anything when they met, but she has a 4 year old daughter now.
Safety
•virgin H, not much on h past just know she was not a V
•No others after meeting
•h: 25 yr old, past abusive relationship was sorta mentioned?
•H: I think he was older than her. Virgin, said there was opportunities but he never was interested in acting on them. He said he had never touched a woman, kissed a woman or anything before her.
•OWD: no.
•OMD: not really. Friend tries to set h up on a date, it never happens and he's not mentioned again. Parents also try to set her up with someone, she dances with him and we also never see him again.
Self notes
✦Maybe skip Jace book if its with Savannah, know they had a past and were eachothers firsts kisses & stuff while teenagers but he's a single dad now.
✦ iffy about Mikhail & Aster book, know they met 5 years ago while she was dating a POS. Don't know if they had done anything when they met, but she has a 4 year old daughter now.
September 14, 2026
Men who thought they don’t have in them to fall in love but become pathetic lovers are my favs!
September 19, 2026
At last, the story of Anton, the most complex of the Marinov brothers and the one who probably has the most difficult past.
It was a challenge to make an emotionless man fall in love, but Thora manages to bring out the best in him – the side he doesn’t even know exists. He doesn't suddenly change completely because he falls for her, he's still Anton.
I really liked the introduction of the Whitlock family, whom we’d already read about; I’ll be looking forward to their stories.
And I was quite surprised by the Marinov cousins, so we can read a little more about this family.
The book has a bit of everything, just the way I like it.
It was a challenge to make an emotionless man fall in love, but Thora manages to bring out the best in him – the side he doesn’t even know exists. He doesn't suddenly change completely because he falls for her, he's still Anton.
I really liked the introduction of the Whitlock family, whom we’d already read about; I’ll be looking forward to their stories.
And I was quite surprised by the Marinov cousins, so we can read a little more about this family.
The book has a bit of everything, just the way I like it.
October 5, 2026
Woww, I have no words for how good and adorable this was. I devoured every single page and just couldn’t stop myself. I was up until 5 am when I had to wake up at 9 😭 I haven’t done that in ages because I couldn’t put a book down, but here I am.
Anton and Thora were absolutely precious together, and their relationship was amazing to read about. Thora showed that Anton can still love someone and that it wasn’t completely beaten out of him. She never gave up on him, and Anton, being the absolute sweetest, was always there for her despite not knowing how to love or comfort someone. They fit each other perfectly and are genuinely made for one another. I am so happy that Anton isn’t alone anymore and that he finally found his way. This series is definitely one of my favorites from this author.😮💨🥰
I am also nervous about Jace and Savannah’s book because they had something when they were teenagers and were each other’s firsts, but now Jace has a daughter with a different woman who is dead. His father also keeps wanting him to get married, meanwhile his daughter is trying to set him up with Savannah. So I am not exactly excited about reading that one.
Also, Mikhail meets Aster again after five years, and that one is also a second chance romance. She has a daughter, and she is probably his. I hope he has been celibate, but knowing this author, her books can sometimes be safe and sometimes not, so I’ve learned my lesson not to expect anything lmao.
Safety note:
There is no OWD, cheating, or others after meeting. They both only have eyes for each other.
There is no information about Thora’s past, but there have been several guys who tried to ask her out on a date. After her fight with Anton, she went on one, but it ended up getting canceled because Anton blew up the guy’s car.
Anton is a virgin, and he has never done anything with a woman before. He never wanted to until Thora, so she is his first in everything.
Anton and Thora were absolutely precious together, and their relationship was amazing to read about. Thora showed that Anton can still love someone and that it wasn’t completely beaten out of him. She never gave up on him, and Anton, being the absolute sweetest, was always there for her despite not knowing how to love or comfort someone. They fit each other perfectly and are genuinely made for one another. I am so happy that Anton isn’t alone anymore and that he finally found his way. This series is definitely one of my favorites from this author.😮💨🥰
I am also nervous about Jace and Savannah’s book because they had something when they were teenagers and were each other’s firsts, but now Jace has a daughter with a different woman who is dead. His father also keeps wanting him to get married, meanwhile his daughter is trying to set him up with Savannah. So I am not exactly excited about reading that one.
Also, Mikhail meets Aster again after five years, and that one is also a second chance romance. She has a daughter, and she is probably his. I hope he has been celibate, but knowing this author, her books can sometimes be safe and sometimes not, so I’ve learned my lesson not to expect anything lmao.
Safety note:
There is no OWD, cheating, or others after meeting. They both only have eyes for each other.
There is no information about Thora’s past, but there have been several guys who tried to ask her out on a date. After her fight with Anton, she went on one, but it ended up getting canceled because Anton blew up the guy’s car.
Anton is a virgin, and he has never done anything with a woman before. He never wanted to until Thora, so she is his first in everything.
September 8, 2026
These Marinov men have a way of getting under your skin and staying there. I thought my obsession was strictly with K, but when we got the other brothers I knew it wasn't just K, but he was my main man, until Anton walked on the scene and stole the show with his ruthlessness, broodiness, and possessive ways. When the Marinovs and Whitlocks first came on the scene together it was intense and I knew it was probably going to end up brutal, but something about Thora Whitlock grabbed the unfeeling Anton Marinov and he slowly becomes obsessed. Thora has a knack for wanting to heal broken animals and most would think that is what she finds in Anton, but what others don't realize is she sees his brokeness and loves it the way it is. Anton and his cold demeanor makes everyone stand down, but not Thora, she shows him he is capable of feeling. The twists, the turns, the passion, will grab you and pull you under but it is Anton and Thora's devotion that will make you stay.
Side Note: Still a hardcore K man here, it's just Anton and those broody ways get me.
Side Note: Still a hardcore K man here, it's just Anton and those broody ways get me.
September 12, 2026
"Ni siquiera entiendo la mitad de lo que siento cuando te miro, pero sé que quemaría el mundo para protegerte. Estás en cada parte de mí ahora, y si eso es amor, entonces te amo"
Tenía demasiadas ganas de leer la historia de Anton porque muchas veces se hablo de su falta de sentimientos a lo largo de los libros y la curiosidad por leer sobre el desde su propia perspectiva para entender como se sienta lo que pasaba por su cabeza ¡Era muy grande!
Su historia con Thora comenzó porque su hermano le dió un nuevo trabajo y era seguir todos los movimientos de ella porque sabían que era la debilidad de su familia y cuando llegara el momento el tendría que eliminarla pero nadie contaba con los sentimientos que surgirían con los pasos de los días porque Anton muy pronto descubre que ella lo hace sentir, al principio es una pequeña obsesión que lo empuja constantemente a protegerla de todo lo que la haga sentir mal y sobre todo despierta su lado tierno que quiere mimarla para hacerla sonreír porque se dió cuenta que cuando ella estaba feliz en el se generaba una paz que no entendía pero le gustaba 😭♥️. Algo que me gusto es que el nunca trato de huir de sus sentimientos y es mas busco ayuda para tener detalles bonitos con ella y sus acciones siempre hablaron por si solas, el decía que no sabía lo que era el amor porque nunca lo experimento, el la amo a su manera y fue una manera muy linda.
Los dramas del mundo fueron inesperados en todos los sentidos y me sentí muy mal por Thora, ella tenía un corazón muy dulce y no merecía estar rodeadas de mentiras que la lastimaran tanto 😭🫂
Ahhh importante, que paciencia le tuve a Anton porque obvio al no saber que hacer con sus sentimientos lastimaba indirectamente a Thora pero era porque no sabía como comunicar sus sentimientos, el ningún momento tuvo la intención de hacerla sentir mal ♥️ HOMBRE PERDONADO
Tenía demasiadas ganas de leer la historia de Anton porque muchas veces se hablo de su falta de sentimientos a lo largo de los libros y la curiosidad por leer sobre el desde su propia perspectiva para entender como se sienta lo que pasaba por su cabeza ¡Era muy grande!
Su historia con Thora comenzó porque su hermano le dió un nuevo trabajo y era seguir todos los movimientos de ella porque sabían que era la debilidad de su familia y cuando llegara el momento el tendría que eliminarla pero nadie contaba con los sentimientos que surgirían con los pasos de los días porque Anton muy pronto descubre que ella lo hace sentir, al principio es una pequeña obsesión que lo empuja constantemente a protegerla de todo lo que la haga sentir mal y sobre todo despierta su lado tierno que quiere mimarla para hacerla sonreír porque se dió cuenta que cuando ella estaba feliz en el se generaba una paz que no entendía pero le gustaba 😭♥️. Algo que me gusto es que el nunca trato de huir de sus sentimientos y es mas busco ayuda para tener detalles bonitos con ella y sus acciones siempre hablaron por si solas, el decía que no sabía lo que era el amor porque nunca lo experimento, el la amo a su manera y fue una manera muy linda.
Los dramas del mundo fueron inesperados en todos los sentidos y me sentí muy mal por Thora, ella tenía un corazón muy dulce y no merecía estar rodeadas de mentiras que la lastimaran tanto 😭🫂
Ahhh importante, que paciencia le tuve a Anton porque obvio al no saber que hacer con sus sentimientos lastimaba indirectamente a Thora pero era porque no sabía como comunicar sus sentimientos, el ningún momento tuvo la intención de hacerla sentir mal ♥️ HOMBRE PERDONADO
September 12, 2026
So he’s supposed to kill her and they fall in love anyway so why do we need a rando kidnapping side plot?? That ruined it. I loved quite a bit about this but that really took the shine off of it.
I did enjoy the virgin being the man for once. Nice change of pace. But he could’ve been a bit less smooth - shown more vulnerability.
I did enjoy the virgin being the man for once. Nice change of pace. But he could’ve been a bit less smooth - shown more vulnerability.
September 13, 2026
Addictive
September 26, 2026
اخيرا قدرت اكمل روايه بعد فتره طويله من فقدان الشغف بس حرفيا اختياري كان موفق وكان افضل جزء بالسلسله كل شي بالكتاب مثالي الابطال وعلاقتهم ومشاعرهم حبيتهم مره وتمنيت الكتاب يكون اطول 🥹
dnr
October 25, 2026Dnf 30%
September 19, 2026
Really liked the plot. Absolutely LOVED Anton’s character. He super broken and was brutally abused as a child by his father so he is very cold and standoffish. He hates people so he’s never cared for having a woman. I loved his character development. I also loved the plot twist at the end with the FMC.
Why not 5 stars? It felt unnecessarily long. Many points were driven several times. I felt like I was reading many lines countless times. There were some unnecessary details IMO and I felt like I skimmed a bit at random parts.
Why not 5 stars? It felt unnecessarily long. Many points were driven several times. I felt like I was reading many lines countless times. There were some unnecessary details IMO and I felt like I skimmed a bit at random parts.
September 14, 2026
So like I’ve said in all my other reviews for this series- I have loved every single book … but tbh Anton might take the cake as the best MMC 🥵 there’s just something about him, maybe it’s the unfiltered bluntness lol. I gave this book a 4/5 ⭐️ rating only because the found family storyline with the FMC and her missing brother seemed a little random- I feel as if it was thrown in right at the end when it could have been more explained through out the entire book
September 16, 2026
Me lo comí literalmente. Tenía muchas expectativas con Anton y no decepcionaron. Me encantó demasiado Thora 😍
September 13, 2026
Definitely a page turner.
"For the girls who hear, " he's an emotionless assassin, who's never kissed anyone", and says, That one!"
Great character building and some twists I didn't see coming... And yes some great spicy scenes too.
"For the girls who hear, " he's an emotionless assassin, who's never kissed anyone", and says, That one!"
Great character building and some twists I didn't see coming... And yes some great spicy scenes too.
September 9, 2026
Just... I need to get my thoughts set here for this. But holy moly, I was not expecting this from Anton and man Lilian delivered alright!
Insane from the get go Anton has his new mark to una*ive, and Thora Witlock is his mark.
Nothing goes according to plan. Did I get emotional and cry ? Yes I did! Was I amazed at the unhingedness? Yes I did! Have I fallen head over heels for Anton? I most definitely have!
And the woman who brought him to his knees, also yes! Oh boy a must read! A fabulous mafia read!!
Insane from the get go Anton has his new mark to una*ive, and Thora Witlock is his mark.
Nothing goes according to plan. Did I get emotional and cry ? Yes I did! Was I amazed at the unhingedness? Yes I did! Have I fallen head over heels for Anton? I most definitely have!
And the woman who brought him to his knees, also yes! Oh boy a must read! A fabulous mafia read!!
September 13, 2026
4.25 stars
September 26, 2026
“ɪ ꜰᴇᴇʟ ɪᴛ ᴛᴏᴏ, ᴛʜᴀᴛ ʀᴜꜱʜ ᴏꜰ ɴᴇʀᴠᴇꜱ ᴍᴏᴠɪɴɢ ᴛʜʀᴏᴜɢʜ ᴍʏ ʙᴏᴅʏ ʟɪᴋᴇ ᴀ ʟɪᴠᴇ ᴡɪʀᴇ. ꜱʜᴇ’ꜱ ᴛʜᴇ ᴍᴏꜱᴛ ᴅᴀɴɢᴇʀᴏᴜꜱ ᴛʜɪɴɢ ɪɴ ᴛʜɪꜱ ʀᴏᴏᴍ.”
RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5
SPICE: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ 3/5
🇷🇺🤠 I BEG YOUR FINEST FLUFFING PARDON?!
RUSSIAN MAFIA?!
COWBOY MAFIA?!
AN EMOTIONALLY UNAVAILABLE ASSASSIN WHO FALLS IN LOVE WITH THE WOMAN HE’S SUPPOSED TO UNALIVE?!
LILIAN HARRIS. MA’AM. DO YOU HAVE SURVEILLANCE CAMERAS IN MY BRAIN?!
Because this is getting suspiciously personal.
As someone whose Russian roots are practically doing a celebratory Cossack dance right now, I would like to formally thank the literary universe for this magnificent collision of criminal enterprises.
Russian men? Absolutely.
Cowboys? Obviously.
Morally questionable men with possessive tendencies and enough emotional baggage to fill an international airport?
SOLD. WHERE DO I SIGN?!
And Lilian Harris? That woman already owns a considerable portion of my heart, my bookshelves, and my questionable financial decisions.
But ANTON?!
OH, THIS MAN.
I fear we have another problem.
Anton Marinov is not exactly what I’d call emotionally accessible.
Actually, that’s generous.
This man has approximately the emotional range of a brick wall that occasionally commits felonies.
He’s cold. Ruthless. Dangerous. And so thoroughly disconnected from his feelings that murder is practically another Tuesday afternoon.
Romantic, right?
SOMEONE CALL MY THERAPIST. I’VE FOUND ANOTHER ONE.
When his brother orders him to eliminate Thora Whitlock, Anton doesn’t hesitate.
She’s the enemy’s daughter.
A target.
A name on a list.
Nothing more.
Except our emotionally constipated Russian menace makes one very significant tactical error.
HE STARTS PAYING ATTENTION TO HER.
He follows her. Watches her. Learns her routines.
Sir, that’s not surveillance anymore. That’s the beginning of a very expensive emotional catastrophe.
And THEN his terrifying dog meets Thora and immediately rolls over for belly rubs.
THE DOG.
HIS SCARY, INTIMIDATING DOG.
Apparently, even the canine division has decided this woman is marriage material.
ANTON, BABY, THE DOG HAS MORE EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE THAN YOU.
And Thora?
OH, I ADORED HER.
She’s gentle without being weak. Compassionate without being foolish. Stubborn enough to challenge a man most people wouldn’t dare look directly in the eyes.
She has this beautiful instinct to care for broken creatures, but what makes her relationship with Anton special is that she doesn’t approach him like some damaged project requiring immediate repairs.
She sees him.
The darkness. The scars. The pieces of himself he doesn’t understand.
And she doesn’t demand that he become an entirely different man to deserve affection.
AND THAT RIGHT THERE?! THAT GOT ME.
Because Anton’s past has left him believing he’s incapable of feeling the things other people take for granted.
Love? Foreign concept.
Tenderness? Never heard of her.
Emotional vulnerability?
ABSOLUTELY NOT. STRAIGHT TO THE GULAG.
But Thora slowly begins disrupting everything he believes about himself.
And watching this terrifying, emotionally detached man realize that he actually CARES about someone?
DELICIOUS.
The best part is that Anton doesn’t suddenly transform into a sunshine-and-rainbows Hallmark boyfriend.
He’s still dangerous.
Still possessive.
Still spectacularly questionable in his methods.
The man does not discover love and immediately start journaling about his feelings over herbal tea.
HE’S STILL ANTON FLUFFING MARINOV.
And I LOVED that.
His growth feels meaningful because his personality isn’t erased to accommodate the romance.
Instead, we get to see affection develop in ways that make sense for someone who has spent his entire life surviving rather than living.
He doesn’t always know how to comfort Thora.
He doesn’t always understand what she needs.
But he TRIES.
AND GOOD HEAVENS, THE TRYING.
There’s something ridiculously endearing about a ruthless mafia assassin encountering his first genuine romantic feelings and having absolutely no idea what to do with them.
Especially when those feelings arrive with an alarming side order of obsession.
Because let’s not forget…
THIS MAN WAS SUPPOSED TO KILL HER.
Instead, he’s bringing her home, protecting her, and developing the kind of attachment that should probably come with several international warning labels.
And the fact that Thora is his first EVERYTHING?!
EXCUSE ME?!
A dangerous, possessive Russian mafia man who’s never wanted anyone before her?
SANTA, CANCEL CHRISTMAS. I’VE ALREADY RECEIVED MY PRESENT.
The chemistry between these two is delicious, but it’s the emotional contrast that really makes their relationship work.
Thora brings warmth into a life that has known very little of it.
Anton offers fierce devotion in a way that’s entirely his own.
They’re opposites, but they complement each other beautifully.
And when his protective instincts take over?
SIR. PLEASE. SOME OF US ARE TRYING TO MAINTAIN A FUNCTIONING HEART RATE.
Now, would I tolerate some of Anton’s behavior in real life?
ABSOLUTELY THE FLUFF NOT.
The man is a walking collection of criminal charges with cheekbones.
But in my fictional mafia universe?
Give me the obsession.
Give me the morally questionable devotion.
Give me a man who’s never understood love until one stubborn woman turns his entire existence upside down.
THAT’S MY BRAND OF LITERARY NONSENSE.
I also loved watching the Marinov family dynamics expand, particularly with the Whitlocks entering the picture.
Russian mafia and cowboy mafia sharing the same fictional universe is already enough to get my attention, but the tension between these families adds another delicious layer.
And the Marinov cousins?!
HELLO?!
Apparently, Lilian Harris has decided my TBR needs absolutely no peace whatsoever.
I’M NOT COMPLAINING.
The twists, the family complications, the dangerous alliances, and the emotional development kept me completely invested.
But underneath all the deliciously dark chaos, what stayed with me most was Anton discovering that the ability to love hadn’t been completely stolen from him.
His past shaped him.
It damaged him.
But it didn’t make him incapable of connection.
And Thora doesn’t magically heal every wound.
She simply gives him something he’d never truly experienced before.
A reason to want more.
EXCUSE ME WHILE I CRY INTO MY COLLECTION OF FICTIONAL RED FLAGS.
FINAL VERDICT:
FIVE STARS. THREE PEPPERS. ONE VERY SATISFIED RUSSIAN HEART. 🇷🇺❤️
Lilian Harris has once again delivered a deliciously dark romance with unforgettable characters, possessive mafia madness, and an emotional core that caught me completely off guard.
Anton is ruthless, broody, obsessive, and emotionally disastrous.
Thora is compassionate, brave, and exactly the kind of woman capable of standing her ground against him.
Together?
ABSOLUTE FLUFFING PERFECTION.
I thought I had my Marinov favorites figured out.
I THOUGHT WRONG.
Anton Marinov didn’t politely request a place on my fictional husband roster.
He kicked down the door, eliminated the competition, and claimed the entire establishment.
AND HONESTLY? THAT’S VERY ON BRAND FOR HIM.
Lilian Harris, you own my heart.
Now, respectfully, please explain how I’m supposed to return to normal men after THIS.
SPOILER ALERT: I’M NOT. 🖤🔥
Tropes: Russian Mafia × Cowboy Mafia • Age Gap • Stalker Romance • He Falls for His Target • Grumpy/Sunshine • Morally Gray MMC • Touch Her and Perish • Obsessive/Possessive • Virgin MMC
RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5
SPICE: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ 3/5
🇷🇺🤠 I BEG YOUR FINEST FLUFFING PARDON?!
RUSSIAN MAFIA?!
COWBOY MAFIA?!
AN EMOTIONALLY UNAVAILABLE ASSASSIN WHO FALLS IN LOVE WITH THE WOMAN HE’S SUPPOSED TO UNALIVE?!
LILIAN HARRIS. MA’AM. DO YOU HAVE SURVEILLANCE CAMERAS IN MY BRAIN?!
Because this is getting suspiciously personal.
As someone whose Russian roots are practically doing a celebratory Cossack dance right now, I would like to formally thank the literary universe for this magnificent collision of criminal enterprises.
Russian men? Absolutely.
Cowboys? Obviously.
Morally questionable men with possessive tendencies and enough emotional baggage to fill an international airport?
SOLD. WHERE DO I SIGN?!
And Lilian Harris? That woman already owns a considerable portion of my heart, my bookshelves, and my questionable financial decisions.
But ANTON?!
OH, THIS MAN.
I fear we have another problem.
Anton Marinov is not exactly what I’d call emotionally accessible.
Actually, that’s generous.
This man has approximately the emotional range of a brick wall that occasionally commits felonies.
He’s cold. Ruthless. Dangerous. And so thoroughly disconnected from his feelings that murder is practically another Tuesday afternoon.
Romantic, right?
SOMEONE CALL MY THERAPIST. I’VE FOUND ANOTHER ONE.
When his brother orders him to eliminate Thora Whitlock, Anton doesn’t hesitate.
She’s the enemy’s daughter.
A target.
A name on a list.
Nothing more.
Except our emotionally constipated Russian menace makes one very significant tactical error.
HE STARTS PAYING ATTENTION TO HER.
He follows her. Watches her. Learns her routines.
Sir, that’s not surveillance anymore. That’s the beginning of a very expensive emotional catastrophe.
And THEN his terrifying dog meets Thora and immediately rolls over for belly rubs.
THE DOG.
HIS SCARY, INTIMIDATING DOG.
Apparently, even the canine division has decided this woman is marriage material.
ANTON, BABY, THE DOG HAS MORE EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE THAN YOU.
And Thora?
OH, I ADORED HER.
She’s gentle without being weak. Compassionate without being foolish. Stubborn enough to challenge a man most people wouldn’t dare look directly in the eyes.
She has this beautiful instinct to care for broken creatures, but what makes her relationship with Anton special is that she doesn’t approach him like some damaged project requiring immediate repairs.
She sees him.
The darkness. The scars. The pieces of himself he doesn’t understand.
And she doesn’t demand that he become an entirely different man to deserve affection.
AND THAT RIGHT THERE?! THAT GOT ME.
Because Anton’s past has left him believing he’s incapable of feeling the things other people take for granted.
Love? Foreign concept.
Tenderness? Never heard of her.
Emotional vulnerability?
ABSOLUTELY NOT. STRAIGHT TO THE GULAG.
But Thora slowly begins disrupting everything he believes about himself.
And watching this terrifying, emotionally detached man realize that he actually CARES about someone?
DELICIOUS.
The best part is that Anton doesn’t suddenly transform into a sunshine-and-rainbows Hallmark boyfriend.
He’s still dangerous.
Still possessive.
Still spectacularly questionable in his methods.
The man does not discover love and immediately start journaling about his feelings over herbal tea.
HE’S STILL ANTON FLUFFING MARINOV.
And I LOVED that.
His growth feels meaningful because his personality isn’t erased to accommodate the romance.
Instead, we get to see affection develop in ways that make sense for someone who has spent his entire life surviving rather than living.
He doesn’t always know how to comfort Thora.
He doesn’t always understand what she needs.
But he TRIES.
AND GOOD HEAVENS, THE TRYING.
There’s something ridiculously endearing about a ruthless mafia assassin encountering his first genuine romantic feelings and having absolutely no idea what to do with them.
Especially when those feelings arrive with an alarming side order of obsession.
Because let’s not forget…
THIS MAN WAS SUPPOSED TO KILL HER.
Instead, he’s bringing her home, protecting her, and developing the kind of attachment that should probably come with several international warning labels.
And the fact that Thora is his first EVERYTHING?!
EXCUSE ME?!
A dangerous, possessive Russian mafia man who’s never wanted anyone before her?
SANTA, CANCEL CHRISTMAS. I’VE ALREADY RECEIVED MY PRESENT.
The chemistry between these two is delicious, but it’s the emotional contrast that really makes their relationship work.
Thora brings warmth into a life that has known very little of it.
Anton offers fierce devotion in a way that’s entirely his own.
They’re opposites, but they complement each other beautifully.
And when his protective instincts take over?
SIR. PLEASE. SOME OF US ARE TRYING TO MAINTAIN A FUNCTIONING HEART RATE.
Now, would I tolerate some of Anton’s behavior in real life?
ABSOLUTELY THE FLUFF NOT.
The man is a walking collection of criminal charges with cheekbones.
But in my fictional mafia universe?
Give me the obsession.
Give me the morally questionable devotion.
Give me a man who’s never understood love until one stubborn woman turns his entire existence upside down.
THAT’S MY BRAND OF LITERARY NONSENSE.
I also loved watching the Marinov family dynamics expand, particularly with the Whitlocks entering the picture.
Russian mafia and cowboy mafia sharing the same fictional universe is already enough to get my attention, but the tension between these families adds another delicious layer.
And the Marinov cousins?!
HELLO?!
Apparently, Lilian Harris has decided my TBR needs absolutely no peace whatsoever.
I’M NOT COMPLAINING.
The twists, the family complications, the dangerous alliances, and the emotional development kept me completely invested.
But underneath all the deliciously dark chaos, what stayed with me most was Anton discovering that the ability to love hadn’t been completely stolen from him.
His past shaped him.
It damaged him.
But it didn’t make him incapable of connection.
And Thora doesn’t magically heal every wound.
She simply gives him something he’d never truly experienced before.
A reason to want more.
EXCUSE ME WHILE I CRY INTO MY COLLECTION OF FICTIONAL RED FLAGS.
FINAL VERDICT:
FIVE STARS. THREE PEPPERS. ONE VERY SATISFIED RUSSIAN HEART. 🇷🇺❤️
Lilian Harris has once again delivered a deliciously dark romance with unforgettable characters, possessive mafia madness, and an emotional core that caught me completely off guard.
Anton is ruthless, broody, obsessive, and emotionally disastrous.
Thora is compassionate, brave, and exactly the kind of woman capable of standing her ground against him.
Together?
ABSOLUTE FLUFFING PERFECTION.
I thought I had my Marinov favorites figured out.
I THOUGHT WRONG.
Anton Marinov didn’t politely request a place on my fictional husband roster.
He kicked down the door, eliminated the competition, and claimed the entire establishment.
AND HONESTLY? THAT’S VERY ON BRAND FOR HIM.
Lilian Harris, you own my heart.
Now, respectfully, please explain how I’m supposed to return to normal men after THIS.
SPOILER ALERT: I’M NOT. 🖤🔥
Tropes: Russian Mafia × Cowboy Mafia • Age Gap • Stalker Romance • He Falls for His Target • Grumpy/Sunshine • Morally Gray MMC • Touch Her and Perish • Obsessive/Possessive • Virgin MMC
September 8, 2026
Anton is the fourth book in Harris' Marinov Bratva series. This enemies to lovers, mafia romance features Anton Marinov and Thora Whitlock.
Thora is a brilliant veterinarian who works on a farm in New Jersey. While she may be a Whitlock, her family keeps her out of the "family business" in order to keep her safe. Unfortunately, her father Harlan crossed the Marinovs by supplying their customers, and now her life is in danger.
While they are all prepared to get their hands dirty, Anton is very much the family enforcer. After an unfortunate abusive incident in his childhood, Anton doesn't experience emotions the same way as most people. He never questions his brother's orders and always carries out elimination instructions. Anton was told to keep eyes on Thora as she would be a message to the Whitlocks if they didn't step back. What Anton did not anticipate is having Thora get under his skin.
Thora is sweet and thoughtful, stubborn and brave, and she turns his vicious guard dog Volchok into an adorable and loving puppy. She is entirely unexpected. When he gets the order to unalive her, he knows he can't do it. Not only that, he is prepared to keep her safe from anyone else who dares to harm her.
I love a mafia romance, but I wasn't sure how Harris was going to make readers fall for Anton's character. It is hard to pull for a character who kills without remorse. Still, she did it. Like Anton, I did not expect Thora and the effect she had on this ruthless, emotionless man. Slowly but surely, Anton wormed his way into my heart, just as he did for Thora. It reinforces that there is one perfect person for everyone. I loved how his character didn't really change, and yet it did. I appreciated how he quickly became possessive and then protective of her. As for Thora, I loved how she saw beyond the gruff exterior and found his well hidden heart. Growing up as a Whitlock she was certainly aware of their world, but stepping into it was another thing all together. Even though she was essentially coddled and protected, she bravely faced danger and kept her head in difficult times. I loved that about her.
Unexpectedly, this book also had me chuckling a few times, including in Chapter 40 when Anton says, "I can react for you. With my gun." Also, shoutout to Rue and Lev. Absolutely precious!
Fortunately, our time with the Marinovs has not come to an end. It looks like we will get Mikhail's story in May 2027, and I would anticipate his twin brother Arkady's story some time after that. I'll try to be patient.
Thora is a brilliant veterinarian who works on a farm in New Jersey. While she may be a Whitlock, her family keeps her out of the "family business" in order to keep her safe. Unfortunately, her father Harlan crossed the Marinovs by supplying their customers, and now her life is in danger.
While they are all prepared to get their hands dirty, Anton is very much the family enforcer. After an unfortunate abusive incident in his childhood, Anton doesn't experience emotions the same way as most people. He never questions his brother's orders and always carries out elimination instructions. Anton was told to keep eyes on Thora as she would be a message to the Whitlocks if they didn't step back. What Anton did not anticipate is having Thora get under his skin.
Thora is sweet and thoughtful, stubborn and brave, and she turns his vicious guard dog Volchok into an adorable and loving puppy. She is entirely unexpected. When he gets the order to unalive her, he knows he can't do it. Not only that, he is prepared to keep her safe from anyone else who dares to harm her.
I love a mafia romance, but I wasn't sure how Harris was going to make readers fall for Anton's character. It is hard to pull for a character who kills without remorse. Still, she did it. Like Anton, I did not expect Thora and the effect she had on this ruthless, emotionless man. Slowly but surely, Anton wormed his way into my heart, just as he did for Thora. It reinforces that there is one perfect person for everyone. I loved how his character didn't really change, and yet it did. I appreciated how he quickly became possessive and then protective of her. As for Thora, I loved how she saw beyond the gruff exterior and found his well hidden heart. Growing up as a Whitlock she was certainly aware of their world, but stepping into it was another thing all together. Even though she was essentially coddled and protected, she bravely faced danger and kept her head in difficult times. I loved that about her.
Unexpectedly, this book also had me chuckling a few times, including in Chapter 40 when Anton says, "I can react for you. With my gun." Also, shoutout to Rue and Lev. Absolutely precious!
Fortunately, our time with the Marinovs has not come to an end. It looks like we will get Mikhail's story in May 2027, and I would anticipate his twin brother Arkady's story some time after that. I'll try to be patient.
September 17, 2026
Notes for me
Anton - Bratva hitman. He is the brother that has no emotion because his father beat him so bad when he was 9
Thora - veterinarian
Opens with Thora and friend seeing a huge Cane Corso tied up outside a store. She cautiously approaches him. He lets her pet him even turning over so she can pet his belly.
Anton’s first thought in the book “I have no idea what this woman has done to my dog, or if I can undo it”
😂 He has trained Volchok (little wolf) to be a killer. Anton has actually been watching Thora. If her father tries to betray the family again he will kill her.
He tries to intimidate her, but she recognizes him from Kirill’s wedding. He says he doesn’t need friends and she basically says you never know who can become friends. He calls her crazy she says a little crazy may do him good. She shocks him.
Family dinner at Kirill’s and Sloane asks about her. Everyone noticed her staring at him. He asks Kirill when he can kill her. Her family is stealing customers so the time is getting close.
They keep running into each other and end up being intimate. He tells her he doesn’t kiss. In reality this is the first time he’s done anything. She had two lackluster experiences.
Anton is sweet in his own way. Brings her chocolate and ice cream when she’s not feeling well. He watches a romance and holds her while she naps.
Anton and his brothers visit Thora’a dad and brothers on business. She brings in food and they are both surprised. His brother confronts him in the hall. He doesn’t realize she can hear and says he’s slept with her and may do it again. She means nothing to him, is a useful distraction. She’s devastated.
Three days later Konstantin orders her death. He wants her killed painlessly but carved up and left on her father’s doorstep.
Anton defies his brother for the first time and win Thora back. There’s a rabbit trail of Thora finding out the truth of her background and puts her in danger.
One of my favorite mafia type books.
Anton - Bratva hitman. He is the brother that has no emotion because his father beat him so bad when he was 9
Thora - veterinarian
Opens with Thora and friend seeing a huge Cane Corso tied up outside a store. She cautiously approaches him. He lets her pet him even turning over so she can pet his belly.
Anton’s first thought in the book “I have no idea what this woman has done to my dog, or if I can undo it”
😂 He has trained Volchok (little wolf) to be a killer. Anton has actually been watching Thora. If her father tries to betray the family again he will kill her.
He tries to intimidate her, but she recognizes him from Kirill’s wedding. He says he doesn’t need friends and she basically says you never know who can become friends. He calls her crazy she says a little crazy may do him good. She shocks him.
Family dinner at Kirill’s and Sloane asks about her. Everyone noticed her staring at him. He asks Kirill when he can kill her. Her family is stealing customers so the time is getting close.
They keep running into each other and end up being intimate. He tells her he doesn’t kiss. In reality this is the first time he’s done anything. She had two lackluster experiences.
Anton is sweet in his own way. Brings her chocolate and ice cream when she’s not feeling well. He watches a romance and holds her while she naps.
Anton and his brothers visit Thora’a dad and brothers on business. She brings in food and they are both surprised. His brother confronts him in the hall. He doesn’t realize she can hear and says he’s slept with her and may do it again. She means nothing to him, is a useful distraction. She’s devastated.
Three days later Konstantin orders her death. He wants her killed painlessly but carved up and left on her father’s doorstep.
Anton defies his brother for the first time and win Thora back. There’s a rabbit trail of Thora finding out the truth of her background and puts her in danger.
One of my favorite mafia type books.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 30, 2026
Oh, how I missed a grumpy mafia man who is absolutely, spectacularly, and hilariously in denial. 😏😂
Anton—the Marinov family’s resident “liquidator”—gets assignment #119. His job? Simple. Cold. Professional. No feelings involved.
At least… that’s what he tells himself. 😌
Because apparently his “dog” has developed a completely different agenda. The man starts acting like Cupid personally shot him with an arrow and forgot to tell him. 🏹❤️
His excuse? He needs to get close enough to the family causing trouble and find out everything he can about them.
Sure, Anton. We totally believe you. 👀😂
What starts as a straightforward mission quickly turns into something neither his instincts nor his carefully controlled emotions are prepared for. And the more interesting his target becomes, the harder it gets for him to stay away.
Anton is used to following orders.
He’s used to controlling his instincts.
He’s definitely not used to wanting someone he absolutely shouldn’t want. 😈
Because attraction doesn’t ask for permission.
Instinct doesn’t give a damn about rules.
And sometimes the darkest places hide the things that scare us the most… including feelings. 🖤
I loved the tension, the denial, the instant attraction, and watching Anton slowly realize that maybe his biggest problem isn’t the mission at all. 🔥
A deliciously dark mafia romance with plenty of tension, possessive vibes, denial, and that delicious “I absolutely do NOT want her… so why the hell can’t I stay away?” energy. 😏
Definitely the kind of book that makes you say “just one more chapter” until suddenly it’s 3 a.m. 😂🔥
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️💥💥💥
Anton—the Marinov family’s resident “liquidator”—gets assignment #119. His job? Simple. Cold. Professional. No feelings involved.
At least… that’s what he tells himself. 😌
Because apparently his “dog” has developed a completely different agenda. The man starts acting like Cupid personally shot him with an arrow and forgot to tell him. 🏹❤️
His excuse? He needs to get close enough to the family causing trouble and find out everything he can about them.
Sure, Anton. We totally believe you. 👀😂
What starts as a straightforward mission quickly turns into something neither his instincts nor his carefully controlled emotions are prepared for. And the more interesting his target becomes, the harder it gets for him to stay away.
Anton is used to following orders.
He’s used to controlling his instincts.
He’s definitely not used to wanting someone he absolutely shouldn’t want. 😈
Because attraction doesn’t ask for permission.
Instinct doesn’t give a damn about rules.
And sometimes the darkest places hide the things that scare us the most… including feelings. 🖤
I loved the tension, the denial, the instant attraction, and watching Anton slowly realize that maybe his biggest problem isn’t the mission at all. 🔥
A deliciously dark mafia romance with plenty of tension, possessive vibes, denial, and that delicious “I absolutely do NOT want her… so why the hell can’t I stay away?” energy. 😏
Definitely the kind of book that makes you say “just one more chapter” until suddenly it’s 3 a.m. 😂🔥
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️💥💥💥
September 9, 2026
⭐ Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3/5)
💭 Thoughts:
I love Lilian Harris and her books, and I’ve been waiting for Anton’s book for SO long, especially since she first started the Marinov Bratva series.
I was excited for this one, but sadly… it really disappointed me.
Konstantin? Not my type at all. Then Alexei came along and—oh my god. That’s my husband. He’s still number one for me. Then came Kirill, who I didn’t really like, and now Anton… and honestly, I expected so much more from him.
Anton and Thora are still some of my favorite characters, right after Fiona and Alexei, but the story itself just didn’t work for me.
There were two things that really bothered me. The scenes about the heroine’s nightmares and her past felt like they were missing something, and the whole part with Anton being in prison and the person who helped him also wasn’t shown the way I wanted. I really wish the author had explored those parts more instead of rushing through them.
It honestly felt like this book was written too quickly, and I was really disappointed because I wanted this to be a 5/5 so badly.
The beginning was actually REALLY good, and I liked the heroine a lot. Then the story started losing me.
And the spice? Okay, I LOVE it. There were a few scenes I really enjoyed, and honestly, the spice saved this book for me.
Alexei and Fiona are still my favorite book and favorite couple in this series so far. I really hope Mikhail’s book doesn’t disappoint me, because I have a feeling I might actually love it.
I’m also REALLY excited for Daddy and Savannah’s book in 2027. I don’t really know how I feel about Mikhail yet, but the single-mom heroine and Mikhail helping her sound really good to me.
Anyway… I really wanted Anton to be a 5/5, but sadly, it wasn’t.
Life is like that, I guess. Not every book can be a favorite.
📌 Tropes:
✦ Dark Mafia Romance
✦ Cowboy Heroine
✦ Assassin Hero
✦ Assassin Falls for His Prey
✦ Hidden Secrets
💭 Thoughts:
I love Lilian Harris and her books, and I’ve been waiting for Anton’s book for SO long, especially since she first started the Marinov Bratva series.
I was excited for this one, but sadly… it really disappointed me.
Konstantin? Not my type at all. Then Alexei came along and—oh my god. That’s my husband. He’s still number one for me. Then came Kirill, who I didn’t really like, and now Anton… and honestly, I expected so much more from him.
Anton and Thora are still some of my favorite characters, right after Fiona and Alexei, but the story itself just didn’t work for me.
There were two things that really bothered me. The scenes about the heroine’s nightmares and her past felt like they were missing something, and the whole part with Anton being in prison and the person who helped him also wasn’t shown the way I wanted. I really wish the author had explored those parts more instead of rushing through them.
It honestly felt like this book was written too quickly, and I was really disappointed because I wanted this to be a 5/5 so badly.
The beginning was actually REALLY good, and I liked the heroine a lot. Then the story started losing me.
And the spice? Okay, I LOVE it. There were a few scenes I really enjoyed, and honestly, the spice saved this book for me.
Alexei and Fiona are still my favorite book and favorite couple in this series so far. I really hope Mikhail’s book doesn’t disappoint me, because I have a feeling I might actually love it.
I’m also REALLY excited for Daddy and Savannah’s book in 2027. I don’t really know how I feel about Mikhail yet, but the single-mom heroine and Mikhail helping her sound really good to me.
Anyway… I really wanted Anton to be a 5/5, but sadly, it wasn’t.
Life is like that, I guess. Not every book can be a favorite.
📌 Tropes:
✦ Dark Mafia Romance
✦ Cowboy Heroine
✦ Assassin Hero
✦ Assassin Falls for His Prey
✦ Hidden Secrets
September 2, 2026
⭐️4.5
Going in I was unsure how Anton would develop as a character. Having the childhood he did, and becoming an emotionless ‘robot’.
Given an order, study get intel and then end.
But his character developed so beautifully. Showing layers of him, even he didn’t know he had.
Nothing has gotten in his way of a mission, until his target became Thora, the only woman that has gotten under his skin and made him feel things he hasn’t before.
Never touching a woman, until the night he drops to his knees. One taste and he’s unable to stay away from her. Telling himself he will allow him to enjoy being physically with her until he ends her then he will go back to not touching another woman.
Thora, the sweet girl that connects more with animals than anyone around her. Not feeling like she belongs anywhere other than with animals, then Anton.
Knowing he’s one man she should stay away from, their family are on the verge of war, he’s the big scary assassin with a scared past and body but Thora sees past the scars and the permanent angry look, and sees the little boy before trauma forced it way in.
I cried so much at some parts, to the point I had to stop to take a breather.
Did I sit and read in one sitting? Pretty much yeah. I couldn’t stop reading and falling in love with them.
(Arc review)
Going in I was unsure how Anton would develop as a character. Having the childhood he did, and becoming an emotionless ‘robot’.
Given an order, study get intel and then end.
But his character developed so beautifully. Showing layers of him, even he didn’t know he had.
Nothing has gotten in his way of a mission, until his target became Thora, the only woman that has gotten under his skin and made him feel things he hasn’t before.
Never touching a woman, until the night he drops to his knees. One taste and he’s unable to stay away from her. Telling himself he will allow him to enjoy being physically with her until he ends her then he will go back to not touching another woman.
Thora, the sweet girl that connects more with animals than anyone around her. Not feeling like she belongs anywhere other than with animals, then Anton.
Knowing he’s one man she should stay away from, their family are on the verge of war, he’s the big scary assassin with a scared past and body but Thora sees past the scars and the permanent angry look, and sees the little boy before trauma forced it way in.
I cried so much at some parts, to the point I had to stop to take a breather.
Did I sit and read in one sitting? Pretty much yeah. I couldn’t stop reading and falling in love with them.
(Arc review)
September 16, 2026
Do you love…
❥ Mafia romance
❥ She is his enemy's daughter
❥ Age fap
❥ He's a Virg!n
❥ Grumpy x Sunshine
❥ Forced Proximity
❥ Touch Her & 💀
❥ Only Soft for Her
❥ Assass!n Falls for His Target
⭑Blurb⭑
When my brother orders me to kill Thora Whitlock,
there’s no hesitation.
Murder comes easy when you feel nothing.
Thora is supposed to be nothing.
The enemy’s daughter.
A woman easily erased.
So I follow her.
Study her.
Uncover all her secrets.
What I don’t expect is to speak to her.
Or watch my terrifying dog roll onto his back the second she touches him.
That should’ve been my first warning.
The second comes when I find her crying outside a bar
and do something I’ve never done before.
Bring my target home.
Thora is everything I don’t understand.
Gentle.
Stubborn.
Too brave for her own good.
And the more I touch her,
the more I realize she’s the only one
who has ever made me feel anything.
But wanting her is dangerous.
Keeping her is worse.
And when she’s taken from me,
I become the one thing I was never meant to be.
Her savior.
❥ Mafia romance
❥ She is his enemy's daughter
❥ Age fap
❥ He's a Virg!n
❥ Grumpy x Sunshine
❥ Forced Proximity
❥ Touch Her & 💀
❥ Only Soft for Her
❥ Assass!n Falls for His Target
⭑Blurb⭑
When my brother orders me to kill Thora Whitlock,
there’s no hesitation.
Murder comes easy when you feel nothing.
Thora is supposed to be nothing.
The enemy’s daughter.
A woman easily erased.
So I follow her.
Study her.
Uncover all her secrets.
What I don’t expect is to speak to her.
Or watch my terrifying dog roll onto his back the second she touches him.
That should’ve been my first warning.
The second comes when I find her crying outside a bar
and do something I’ve never done before.
Bring my target home.
Thora is everything I don’t understand.
Gentle.
Stubborn.
Too brave for her own good.
And the more I touch her,
the more I realize she’s the only one
who has ever made me feel anything.
But wanting her is dangerous.
Keeping her is worse.
And when she’s taken from me,
I become the one thing I was never meant to be.
Her savior.
September 19, 2026
Beautiful Grumpy Sunshine Romance
This is a 4.5-star read, and it took me on such a beautiful journey.
Thora has so much sunshine to give, while Anton is the complete opposite—grumpy, guarded, and determined to keep his walls up. But somehow, their personalities complement each other perfectly.
Thora wants to help Anton, even though she doesn’t see it as trying to fix him. I loved how patient she was with him and how she gave him the space to open up at his own pace.
Anton was deep in denial and didn’t want to admit what he was feeling for Thora, but watching him slowly realize it was such a beautiful part of the story.
Another thing that stood out to me was the sibling relationships. They were written with so much love and added another layer of warmth to the book.
Do I recommend it? Yes, I do.
This is a 4.5-star read, and it took me on such a beautiful journey.
Thora has so much sunshine to give, while Anton is the complete opposite—grumpy, guarded, and determined to keep his walls up. But somehow, their personalities complement each other perfectly.
Thora wants to help Anton, even though she doesn’t see it as trying to fix him. I loved how patient she was with him and how she gave him the space to open up at his own pace.
Anton was deep in denial and didn’t want to admit what he was feeling for Thora, but watching him slowly realize it was such a beautiful part of the story.
Another thing that stood out to me was the sibling relationships. They were written with so much love and added another layer of warmth to the book.
Do I recommend it? Yes, I do.
October 27, 2026
I couldn’t put this down…Anton was dark, filthy, and absolutely addictive! Just when I thought things couldn’t get any more intense, this book proved me wrong. The smut was smutting, the darkness was DARKING, and let’s just say Anton is not the kind of man you read about and simply forget. 🥵
This book had me hooked, blushing, and questioning my own taste in fictional men—and honestly? I regret nothing! If you love your romance dark, your characters morally questionable, and your spice with a side of unhinged, Anton deserves a spot on your TBR.
Was it dark? Absolutely. Was it dirty? You bet. Did I eat it up anyway? Every. Single. Page. 😏🔥
Anton, you are a walking red flag, and apparently, I brought snacks.
4⭐️
5🌶️
A gazillion 🚩
This book had me hooked, blushing, and questioning my own taste in fictional men—and honestly? I regret nothing! If you love your romance dark, your characters morally questionable, and your spice with a side of unhinged, Anton deserves a spot on your TBR.
Was it dark? Absolutely. Was it dirty? You bet. Did I eat it up anyway? Every. Single. Page. 😏🔥
Anton, you are a walking red flag, and apparently, I brought snacks.
4⭐️
5🌶️
A gazillion 🚩
September 21, 2026
♤Could have been five stars if Anton was a little more "heartless" as he was described in the other three books. I was expecting a very complex character who suffered so much trauma that he literally can't feel a thing. But in the first chapter we already see him obsessed with Thora? I thought we'll see a slow burn, how Anton warms little by little.
♤Thora is a very good character. A woman who knows her passions, is not afraid to show who she really is, and an empath which I think goes perfect for Anton's complete opposite behavior.
♤The romance was very good, the plot twists kinda expected, but I had a good time with this one. Be aware of the trigger warnings because I did not expect to read actual animal cruelty.
♤Thora is a very good character. A woman who knows her passions, is not afraid to show who she really is, and an empath which I think goes perfect for Anton's complete opposite behavior.
♤The romance was very good, the plot twists kinda expected, but I had a good time with this one. Be aware of the trigger warnings because I did not expect to read actual animal cruelty.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 6, 2026
2.75 stars.
i liked the writing.
im just not much of a fan of how much pushing away the hero did. he was obsessed with the heroine, but his low self worth kept him from wanting to pursue something with her for most of the book. he didn't feel like he deserved her / had anything to offer her / had the emotional capacity to be in a relationship. all of which he thought about a LOT and often.
it got repetitive. he hurt her feelings -> she/he/both decided there was no future for them -> they saw each other again and had sex because they couldn't resist. rinse and repeat.
but id be open to reading something by this author again.
i liked the writing.
im just not much of a fan of how much pushing away the hero did. he was obsessed with the heroine, but his low self worth kept him from wanting to pursue something with her for most of the book. he didn't feel like he deserved her / had anything to offer her / had the emotional capacity to be in a relationship. all of which he thought about a LOT and often.
it got repetitive. he hurt her feelings -> she/he/both decided there was no future for them -> they saw each other again and had sex because they couldn't resist. rinse and repeat.
but id be open to reading something by this author again.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 10, 2026
Anton
This story is a an excellent read for the Marinov Bratva, the brothers have each others back. Anton was given an assignment, not yet to be carried out, still watching his person, who becomes more intent on him as time goes on. The drama, dynamics, the unknown and chemistry between the hitman and his mark is undeniable. This story has so many twists and turns that will keep you guessing and waiting for the inevitable next flip in the events. Absolutely loved this story.
This story is a an excellent read for the Marinov Bratva, the brothers have each others back. Anton was given an assignment, not yet to be carried out, still watching his person, who becomes more intent on him as time goes on. The drama, dynamics, the unknown and chemistry between the hitman and his mark is undeniable. This story has so many twists and turns that will keep you guessing and waiting for the inevitable next flip in the events. Absolutely loved this story.
September 9, 2026
Anton is the quiet brother of the family the one sent to eliminate problems for the family with zero remorse because his father made sure long ago that Anton felt nothing that emotion was a liability until he began observing the youngest daughter of the Whitlock family Theora Whitlock she is sunshine to Anton’s grumpiness and when confronted with Anton face to face she sees something in Anton that makes her want to dig under the surface and show him the broken pieces of feelings are still there and it’s ok to feel, to love and to want someone and something more. However Theoras world is turned upside down my a secret long held by her family and the past meets her future in a way Theora never expected
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