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Mafia Doms #4
Trust
Every day, I need to remind myself that I'm lucky. I'm lucky I have a home. I'm lucky I'm healthy. I'm lucky I have a partner.
But it's hard to remember that I'm lucky when my lover tells me I need to get close to Ilya Zima, notorious Russian mafia boss. If I do this, my partner's career is set.
Get close, find out Ilya's secrets, and my life will be happy again. There will be no more yelling, no more hitting. The BDSM will make me feel good again, not bad.
Only Ilya isn't rough or terrifying like I imagined. He's gentle, and sweet, and he likes my music. He wants to pet me and make me feel good. He understands me.
The more time I spend with him, the more I forget who he's supposed to be.
The more I fall for him.
And the more I desperately want him to save me.
Trust is a spicy, m/m age gap BDSM romance with a Bratva leader and a down-on-his-luck musician trapped in a cycle of abuse. Although set in the Mafia Doms universe, it is a complete standalone that can be enjoyed without having read any other books. Trust contains scenes of domestic violence.
But it's hard to remember that I'm lucky when my lover tells me I need to get close to Ilya Zima, notorious Russian mafia boss. If I do this, my partner's career is set.
Get close, find out Ilya's secrets, and my life will be happy again. There will be no more yelling, no more hitting. The BDSM will make me feel good again, not bad.
Only Ilya isn't rough or terrifying like I imagined. He's gentle, and sweet, and he likes my music. He wants to pet me and make me feel good. He understands me.
The more time I spend with him, the more I forget who he's supposed to be.
The more I fall for him.
And the more I desperately want him to save me.
Trust is a spicy, m/m age gap BDSM romance with a Bratva leader and a down-on-his-luck musician trapped in a cycle of abuse. Although set in the Mafia Doms universe, it is a complete standalone that can be enjoyed without having read any other books. Trust contains scenes of domestic violence.
328 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 2, 2025
61 people are currently reading
1033 people want to read
About the author
Adara Wolf
51 books439 followersI write almost exclusive m/m, but I have a fondness for bisexual protagonists. I enjoy a lot of darker themes, so you'll see a lot of that around here.
When I’m not writing, I’m reading, painting, playing video games, and rescuing cats. I also enjoy learning about languages and other cultures.
If you're ever curious about the contents of my works, I put content notes on my website (http://adarawolf.com)
You can also follow me on facebook and twitter. I also have a Patreon account
When I’m not writing, I’m reading, painting, playing video games, and rescuing cats. I also enjoy learning about languages and other cultures.
If you're ever curious about the contents of my works, I put content notes on my website (http://adarawolf.com)
You can also follow me on facebook and twitter. I also have a Patreon account
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
December 15, 2025
4.3 stars
November 16, 2025
ARC REVIEW: I laughed, I cried, and I related way too much to Micah. The honest portrayal of his struggle was heart wrenching, but liberating in an 'I'm not alone' kind of way. Like everything these two write together, Trust was a triumph of emotions, spice, and bits of humor. Fantastic job, y'all!!
December 6, 2025
"Your music went straight into my soul, Mishka"
Trust by Adara Wolf and R. Pheonix
This book completely took me by surprise, in the best way. Micah and Ilya own my heart, and after everything they endured, seeing them choose each other and finally find their happily ever after was pure magic.
What struck me the most was how expertly the authors, Adara and R. Phoenix, wove raw real-world truth into a fictional romance without losing the tension, passion, or emotional punch. It was done with so much care that their journey never felt exaggerated, only achingly, beautifully real.
The title says it all. This is a story about trust, earning it, breaking it, rebuilding it, and how fragile it can be in the wrong hands.
Ilya had me holding my breath and swooning at the same time. His fierce love for his mother and the anger he carried toward his father for treating her so cruelly made him even more unforgettable. We all know someone like that, someone who tears their partner down to feed their own ego. What made Ilya so compelling was his constant fight not to become that man. And the moments he feared he had? They broke me for him.
One of those moments, when betrayal ignited a storm of rage and heartbreak, led Ilya into a bar that changed everything. There, he met a cellist who mirrored the life his mother once lived… and without even realizing it, he found the love of his life. I adored that it was almost love at first sight for him, his heart already knowing before his head could catch up.
Micah, my sweet, infuriating, painfully human Micah. My heart shattered for you. I could never blame you for trusting and caring for a man who trapped and manipulated you, slowly stripping away your self worth. I felt every emotion for you, anger, sadness, frustration, hope, but more than anything, relief that you escaped. And not just escaped… but escaped into a love that deserved you.
The abuse wasn’t romanticized. The healing was. And watching you learn to trust again, after such devastation, was your strongest and most beautiful arc. I just wanted to hug you.
It’s painful to know that the struggles both men faced reflect a reality too many people live every single day. If only more could find a safe path out, or their own version of an Ilya who loves without destroying.
This is, hands down, the most realistic “fictional” romance I’ve read in a long time. It broke me, healed me, entertained me, and reminded me why love stories matter. And the appearances from past characters in the series? The perfect emotional bonus I didn’t know I needed.
I can only hope we get more Micah and Ilya in the next book. Their story may be fictional
but their love, their growth, and their fight for each other felt very, deeply, real.
Trust by Adara Wolf and R. Pheonix
This book completely took me by surprise, in the best way. Micah and Ilya own my heart, and after everything they endured, seeing them choose each other and finally find their happily ever after was pure magic.
What struck me the most was how expertly the authors, Adara and R. Phoenix, wove raw real-world truth into a fictional romance without losing the tension, passion, or emotional punch. It was done with so much care that their journey never felt exaggerated, only achingly, beautifully real.
The title says it all. This is a story about trust, earning it, breaking it, rebuilding it, and how fragile it can be in the wrong hands.
Ilya had me holding my breath and swooning at the same time. His fierce love for his mother and the anger he carried toward his father for treating her so cruelly made him even more unforgettable. We all know someone like that, someone who tears their partner down to feed their own ego. What made Ilya so compelling was his constant fight not to become that man. And the moments he feared he had? They broke me for him.
One of those moments, when betrayal ignited a storm of rage and heartbreak, led Ilya into a bar that changed everything. There, he met a cellist who mirrored the life his mother once lived… and without even realizing it, he found the love of his life. I adored that it was almost love at first sight for him, his heart already knowing before his head could catch up.
Micah, my sweet, infuriating, painfully human Micah. My heart shattered for you. I could never blame you for trusting and caring for a man who trapped and manipulated you, slowly stripping away your self worth. I felt every emotion for you, anger, sadness, frustration, hope, but more than anything, relief that you escaped. And not just escaped… but escaped into a love that deserved you.
The abuse wasn’t romanticized. The healing was. And watching you learn to trust again, after such devastation, was your strongest and most beautiful arc. I just wanted to hug you.
It’s painful to know that the struggles both men faced reflect a reality too many people live every single day. If only more could find a safe path out, or their own version of an Ilya who loves without destroying.
This is, hands down, the most realistic “fictional” romance I’ve read in a long time. It broke me, healed me, entertained me, and reminded me why love stories matter. And the appearances from past characters in the series? The perfect emotional bonus I didn’t know I needed.
I can only hope we get more Micah and Ilya in the next book. Their story may be fictional
but their love, their growth, and their fight for each other felt very, deeply, real.
November 22, 2025
Kupione przedpremierowo ze strony.
Chyba muszę dać sobie spokój z tą parą osób piszących, bo choć nie są to książki złe, to jednak nie wzbudzają we mnie jakiś głębszych uczuć. Nie rozumiem po co pisać o mafii, gdy zachowanie bohaterów sprawia, że cała organizacja padłaby po jednym dniu. I nie oczekuję tu nie wiadomo jakich realistycznych opisów, ale może ciut więcej logiki w zachowaniu postaci.
Gdyby nie powyższe, to dałabym pięć gwiazdek za Micaha i pokazanie, jak trudno jest się uwolnić z przemocowego związku. Sposób, w jaki przedstawiono jego dylematy, problemy i wątpliwości, bardzo we mnie uderzył. Szkoda, że całość przyćmiła reszta (zwłaszcza związek z Ilyą).
Chyba muszę dać sobie spokój z tą parą osób piszących, bo choć nie są to książki złe, to jednak nie wzbudzają we mnie jakiś głębszych uczuć. Nie rozumiem po co pisać o mafii, gdy zachowanie bohaterów sprawia, że cała organizacja padłaby po jednym dniu. I nie oczekuję tu nie wiadomo jakich realistycznych opisów, ale może ciut więcej logiki w zachowaniu postaci.
Gdyby nie powyższe, to dałabym pięć gwiazdek za Micaha i pokazanie, jak trudno jest się uwolnić z przemocowego związku. Sposób, w jaki przedstawiono jego dylematy, problemy i wątpliwości, bardzo we mnie uderzył. Szkoda, że całość przyćmiła reszta (zwłaszcza związek z Ilyą).
November 27, 2025
The web around Micah is a thick woven one, with no escape possible to get away from Adam. Not that Micah wants to, because he feels lucky to have a boyfriend, and a place to live, even though they never go public, and Adam isn’t always nice. Everything Micah does and thinks is to please, so nobody gets angry, so there will be no insults and no pain.
Adam is a cop and orders Micah to approach Ilya Zima, a dangerous Russian mafia boss. This is to get some inside information so Adam will catch a big fish and get a promotion. Yeah, you got that right, he doesn’t care one bit about Micah.
The said mafia boss is far from what I expect him to be. When he hears Micah play his cello he’s completely mesmerized by Micah and his sad music.
He’s head over heels for Micah.
I wanted to smack Adam so hard, ugh!
Micah’s head works overtime and it’s so complicated. My heart cracked more than once.
I won’t tell more about this story. I found it quite captivating, and read it in one sitting.
Thank goodness I never had to experience DV. I read about it, and Micah’s pov was very convincing.
The writing was excellently done, with a good focus on the things that matter.
The story is part of the Mafia Dom series, but it’s quite different from the others.
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I received an arc
Adam is a cop and orders Micah to approach Ilya Zima, a dangerous Russian mafia boss. This is to get some inside information so Adam will catch a big fish and get a promotion. Yeah, you got that right, he doesn’t care one bit about Micah.
The said mafia boss is far from what I expect him to be. When he hears Micah play his cello he’s completely mesmerized by Micah and his sad music.
He’s head over heels for Micah.
I wanted to smack Adam so hard, ugh!
Micah’s head works overtime and it’s so complicated. My heart cracked more than once.
I won’t tell more about this story. I found it quite captivating, and read it in one sitting.
Thank goodness I never had to experience DV. I read about it, and Micah’s pov was very convincing.
The writing was excellently done, with a good focus on the things that matter.
The story is part of the Mafia Dom series, but it’s quite different from the others.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
I received an arc
December 1, 2025
"Trust" is a mafia romance and part of a series but each book can be read as a standalone. I promise you won't be confused if you haven't read the previous books. There are cameos but all you need to know about the characters is mentioned.
Ilya and Micah's story was very intense. The way the authors portrayed Micah and the situation he was in was realistic and absolutely heartbreaking. My heart ached for Micah. Ilya was was wonderful with him. So attentive and caring, always making sure Micah was well.
Ilya was a very interesting character. Strong and sensitive at the same time and surprising relatable for a mafia boss. I loved how he treated Micah and I enjoyed seeing him explore his desires for the first time. Also, I really really liked all the conversations about fish and aquariums.
I loved the two of them together, and I was rooting for them from the beginning.
I highly recommend, I really enjoyed reading it, just make sure you read the trigger warnings before you start.
Ilya and Micah's story was very intense. The way the authors portrayed Micah and the situation he was in was realistic and absolutely heartbreaking. My heart ached for Micah. Ilya was was wonderful with him. So attentive and caring, always making sure Micah was well.
Ilya was a very interesting character. Strong and sensitive at the same time and surprising relatable for a mafia boss. I loved how he treated Micah and I enjoyed seeing him explore his desires for the first time. Also, I really really liked all the conversations about fish and aquariums.
I loved the two of them together, and I was rooting for them from the beginning.
I highly recommend, I really enjoyed reading it, just make sure you read the trigger warnings before you start.
November 16, 2025
I loved Trust for how honestly it shows the nearly impossible task of breaking out of an abusive cycle—especially while juggling the messy, tempting chaos of BDSM dynamics. Even though this fell close to real life, Trust still manages to crack a smirk out of you between the emotional bruises (looking at you, Silvano and Kyran). This is definitely a different feel from the other Mafia Doms books, but absolutely worth the read!
December 17, 2025
This was one of my most anticipated releases of the second half of the year. I liked Control from the same series and I had high expectations once I saw this premise. Ultimately, it is a fast reading that had me invested through it all with some things that worked for me and others that didn't.
The first thing I wasn't into was how the insta-attraction was executed on MCs' first meeting. Although it's something that I generally don't enjoy, I've read other books with this trope that turned out well for me. My problem was that things happened fast, and it wasn't believable that an older man tied to the bratva could easily let his guard down for someone else since the very beginning. I think it could've been much better if he had shown interest in Micah but without attraction being a big thing, so that it could grow into something more later.
The fact that things moved fast between them sexually speaking didn't work for me either, even more so because of the BDSM element. Even as a reader that is into erotica and likes sex scenes, I need them to make sense within the story and for them to appear at the right moment so that they don't feel forced into the plot just because. This is what happened here, I thought that them falling into sex that fast didn't feel organic given their circumstances. I could understand it coming from Micah due to his 'motives', but even if Ilya made very clear he was attracted to him since the start, it still felt like going too fast.
I think those details are very important since they're some big moments within the romance and if they aren't developed in a satisfying way imo, the more developed the relationship becomes later the more I feel like the foundation is shaky. It is why it didn't feel like the connection they shared at that point was 100% believable to me.
Now onto what worked for me... the writting is something I don't struggle with these authors. The sex scenes were hot by themselves (although as I said before, I would've preferred them to appear much later), the dialogue was fine and the moments of tension were done well.
I think this book also did good when it came to the themes of domestic violence because it offered a sympathetic view on victims that sometimes don't behave as others want them to. From Ilya's backstory to what Micah was going through, it felt like a sincere character development for both. Micah especially, I think that even when at times I was frustrated at his decisions, his behaviour and thinking is understandable as an abuse survivor and the book doesn't put all the pressure on him, having Ilya as someone that reminded him that he deserved much better.
Last thing is that I actually was rooting for the couple the whole time. Even when I had issues with their beginning, I still felt like they shared an honest connection eventually once they came to know each other more. Even if I wasn't fully into how the BDSM came into the story (not because it doesn't suit the pairing but because of the time and place it was introduced), I think that in the long run it is valuable for the relationship.
Overall, I think that while it might not be a light reading for some people due to its topics, it is a fast one and easy to get into. More pages would've been perfect for the story, but as I always say I love hard earned HEAs anyway.
Tags: (might miss some of them)
-POV: first person
-Content warnings:
-Elements:
-Kinks:
-Sexual act(s):
-Dynamic:
The first thing I wasn't into was how the insta-attraction was executed on MCs' first meeting. Although it's something that I generally don't enjoy, I've read other books with this trope that turned out well for me. My problem was that things happened fast, and it wasn't believable that an older man tied to the bratva could easily let his guard down for someone else since the very beginning. I think it could've been much better if he had shown interest in Micah but without attraction being a big thing, so that it could grow into something more later.
The fact that things moved fast between them sexually speaking didn't work for me either, even more so because of the BDSM element. Even as a reader that is into erotica and likes sex scenes, I need them to make sense within the story and for them to appear at the right moment so that they don't feel forced into the plot just because. This is what happened here, I thought that them falling into sex that fast didn't feel organic given their circumstances. I could understand it coming from Micah due to his 'motives', but even if Ilya made very clear he was attracted to him since the start, it still felt like going too fast.
I think those details are very important since they're some big moments within the romance and if they aren't developed in a satisfying way imo, the more developed the relationship becomes later the more I feel like the foundation is shaky. It is why it didn't feel like the connection they shared at that point was 100% believable to me.
Now onto what worked for me... the writting is something I don't struggle with these authors. The sex scenes were hot by themselves (although as I said before, I would've preferred them to appear much later), the dialogue was fine and the moments of tension were done well.
I think this book also did good when it came to the themes of domestic violence because it offered a sympathetic view on victims that sometimes don't behave as others want them to. From Ilya's backstory to what Micah was going through, it felt like a sincere character development for both. Micah especially, I think that even when at times I was frustrated at his decisions, his behaviour and thinking is understandable as an abuse survivor and the book doesn't put all the pressure on him, having Ilya as someone that reminded him that he deserved much better.
Last thing is that I actually was rooting for the couple the whole time. Even when I had issues with their beginning, I still felt like they shared an honest connection eventually once they came to know each other more. Even if I wasn't fully into how the BDSM came into the story (not because it doesn't suit the pairing but because of the time and place it was introduced), I think that in the long run it is valuable for the relationship.
Overall, I think that while it might not be a light reading for some people due to its topics, it is a fast one and easy to get into. More pages would've been perfect for the story, but as I always say I love hard earned HEAs anyway.
Tags: (might miss some of them)
-POV: first person
-Content warnings:
-Elements:
-Kinks:
-Sexual act(s):
-Dynamic:
November 26, 2025
3.75⭐️
Misha is trapped in an abusive relationship with a dirty cop called Adam. (Adam is the worst ever. I HATE ADAM and so will you!!) Adam is trying to get dirt on Russian mafia man Ilya Zima, hoping to get a promotion at work. Adam has Misha under his foot, and is happy to use and abuse Misha to intice Ilya, and get the evidence he needs to crack down on him. What Misha doesn’t expect is for Ilya to be gentle with him. To love his cello playing. To accept him for how he is. To buy him his favourite things and listen to his woes. This story deals with heavy domestic abuse, so please check the TWs. Just know that everyone gets the ending they deserve 😌
This book has:
-mafia romance (mob boss x abuse survivor who needs protection)
-age gap
-escaping an abusive situation
-the usual violence and action that comes with the genre
-some BDSM fun
This story focuses heavily on Misha’s story, and how he is able to escape from Adam. Have I mentioned that I hate Adam? Well he’s the worst! This book made me uncomfortable, and I mean this not in a bad way. Through the entire book, Misha is constantly thinking about Adam and how he would react or how Misha should act so he won’t invoke any ire. As the reader it’s so frustrating because you just want to see Misha and Ilya fall in love and be happy together, but there’s this terrible awful guy that just keeps popping up. But this is so important, because someone in such a terrible abusive situation would have to deal with this kind of torment. As the reader, you are constantly reminded of how deeply Adam’s abuse has impacted pretty much every decision, and every thought that Misha has. Well done. (But I hate Adam!)
Ilya, on the other hand? What a softie. I know that we technically open the book with him killing someone, but he’s never done anything wrong in his life if you ask me. He’s super attentive, willing to do anything to make sure that Misha is well taken care of, and understood, and willing to make changes in his own life, just for the convenience of a guy that he’s technically not even dating. He is the perfect imaginary boyfriend 😂
If you’re willing to endure a story with difficult themes, and love a good whipped mafia man (and some fun BDSM spice), then you’d likely enjoy this book! ^^
Misha is trapped in an abusive relationship with a dirty cop called Adam. (Adam is the worst ever. I HATE ADAM and so will you!!) Adam is trying to get dirt on Russian mafia man Ilya Zima, hoping to get a promotion at work. Adam has Misha under his foot, and is happy to use and abuse Misha to intice Ilya, and get the evidence he needs to crack down on him. What Misha doesn’t expect is for Ilya to be gentle with him. To love his cello playing. To accept him for how he is. To buy him his favourite things and listen to his woes. This story deals with heavy domestic abuse, so please check the TWs. Just know that everyone gets the ending they deserve 😌
This book has:
-mafia romance (mob boss x abuse survivor who needs protection)
-age gap
-escaping an abusive situation
-the usual violence and action that comes with the genre
-some BDSM fun
This story focuses heavily on Misha’s story, and how he is able to escape from Adam. Have I mentioned that I hate Adam? Well he’s the worst! This book made me uncomfortable, and I mean this not in a bad way. Through the entire book, Misha is constantly thinking about Adam and how he would react or how Misha should act so he won’t invoke any ire. As the reader it’s so frustrating because you just want to see Misha and Ilya fall in love and be happy together, but there’s this terrible awful guy that just keeps popping up. But this is so important, because someone in such a terrible abusive situation would have to deal with this kind of torment. As the reader, you are constantly reminded of how deeply Adam’s abuse has impacted pretty much every decision, and every thought that Misha has. Well done. (But I hate Adam!)
Ilya, on the other hand? What a softie. I know that we technically open the book with him killing someone, but he’s never done anything wrong in his life if you ask me. He’s super attentive, willing to do anything to make sure that Misha is well taken care of, and understood, and willing to make changes in his own life, just for the convenience of a guy that he’s technically not even dating. He is the perfect imaginary boyfriend 😂
If you’re willing to endure a story with difficult themes, and love a good whipped mafia man (and some fun BDSM spice), then you’d likely enjoy this book! ^^
December 5, 2025
"I see you, Mishka. And I will help the world see you, and hear you, too."
── Honest ARC Review ──
Trust can only be described as a breath of fresh air. Ilya and Micah are two men so hurt, who don't believe they deserve love due to their circumstances, but they constantly fought to prove that thinking wrong in the other. There was something so raw and powerful in watching them fall in love and come to the realization that they CAN take control of their lives.
From their first conversation, Ilya saw how important the cello is to Micah and made sure to handle him with care. And Micah saw glimpses of Ilya's soul in the way he talks about and treats his fish. They didn't view each other as products of their environments and instead focused on what the other loves because what you love should define you.
And Adam? I was absolutely terrified of him due to underestimating the danger he's capable of. But that is exactly the point Adara Wolf and R. Phoenix were trying to get across: even men who seem like protectors, who started the relationship off as a smiling man, can still hurt you in ways you never imagined.
Domestic violence is a difficult topic to discuss, but such care was put into writing Micah's experiences. Falling in love with Ilya didn't "fix" his trauma; it allowed Micah to self-reflect and make his own decisions. He's a SURVIVOR. Those nightmares will haunt him, but Ilya will always be there in the same way Micah listens to and believes in him.
Each book of the series contained characters and relationships with such different dynamics that I fell in love with, and I appreciate the lengthy appearances we got of Silvano and Kyran along with Maddox and Knives in this one. Still, I found Ilya and Micah to be the most near and dear couple to my heart with their book being my favorite of the series.
── Honest ARC Review ──
Trust can only be described as a breath of fresh air. Ilya and Micah are two men so hurt, who don't believe they deserve love due to their circumstances, but they constantly fought to prove that thinking wrong in the other. There was something so raw and powerful in watching them fall in love and come to the realization that they CAN take control of their lives.
From their first conversation, Ilya saw how important the cello is to Micah and made sure to handle him with care. And Micah saw glimpses of Ilya's soul in the way he talks about and treats his fish. They didn't view each other as products of their environments and instead focused on what the other loves because what you love should define you.
And Adam? I was absolutely terrified of him due to underestimating the danger he's capable of. But that is exactly the point Adara Wolf and R. Phoenix were trying to get across: even men who seem like protectors, who started the relationship off as a smiling man, can still hurt you in ways you never imagined.
Domestic violence is a difficult topic to discuss, but such care was put into writing Micah's experiences. Falling in love with Ilya didn't "fix" his trauma; it allowed Micah to self-reflect and make his own decisions. He's a SURVIVOR. Those nightmares will haunt him, but Ilya will always be there in the same way Micah listens to and believes in him.
Each book of the series contained characters and relationships with such different dynamics that I fell in love with, and I appreciate the lengthy appearances we got of Silvano and Kyran along with Maddox and Knives in this one. Still, I found Ilya and Micah to be the most near and dear couple to my heart with their book being my favorite of the series.
December 4, 2025
Micah, a struggling musician trapped in an abusive relationship, is coerced by his partner into seducing Ilya Zima, a notorious Russian mafia boss, to secure his partner’s career. What begins as a dangerous mission shifts when Micah discovers that Ilya is unexpectedly gentle, attentive, and deeply moved by his music. As Micah spends more time with him, he begins to fall in love, longing for Ilya to rescue him from his cycle of violence and despair.
I loved this story, which was not just a romance — it was a meditation on vulnerability, the paradox of power, and the possibility of finding healing in unexpected places. I loved that Micah’s abusive relationship with Adam, who used coercion, violence, and manipulation, leaving him trapped in a cycle of fear and dependency, whereas, by contrast, mafia boss Ilya embodied gentleness and care, offering Micah a glimpse of what intimacy could feel like when rooted in respect. The story juxtaposes brutality with tenderness, asking whether healing can come from the most unexpected places. I liked that the story doesn’t shy away from depicting the harsh realities of abuse, grounding the romance in real emotional stakes. Easy to read, feel and understand. This was an MM story with mature content and a BDSM-like D/s dynamic.
** Please read the content warnings.
I loved this story, which was not just a romance — it was a meditation on vulnerability, the paradox of power, and the possibility of finding healing in unexpected places. I loved that Micah’s abusive relationship with Adam, who used coercion, violence, and manipulation, leaving him trapped in a cycle of fear and dependency, whereas, by contrast, mafia boss Ilya embodied gentleness and care, offering Micah a glimpse of what intimacy could feel like when rooted in respect. The story juxtaposes brutality with tenderness, asking whether healing can come from the most unexpected places. I liked that the story doesn’t shy away from depicting the harsh realities of abuse, grounding the romance in real emotional stakes. Easy to read, feel and understand. This was an MM story with mature content and a BDSM-like D/s dynamic.
** Please read the content warnings.
December 2, 2025
Gentle Dom Mafia Daddy? Say Less😉
Besties… I was NOT prepared for the emotional ride this book put me through. "Trust" dropped me straight into Micah’s nightmare: being us€d, abus€d, and manipulated by his partner who’s supposed to love him. And when he’s forced to betray Ilya? Ugh... the guilt, the fear, the desperate hope Micah clings to… ugh, you can actually feeling the hurt and anguish Micah endures
And then there’s Ilya Zima, our sexy older Russian Bratva boss. This man is a gentle Dom wrapped in a mafia aesthetic, giving pure hurt/comfort perfection. The way he treats Micah with softness and patience... I was MELTING. Also… the spicy scenes??? Besties, they are SPICING.🥵
This was my first time reading anything in this series and from these authors, and let me just say... I am now INVESTED. A dark, spicy, emotional standalone that absolutely delivers. You need to add this to your TBR immediately.
My Ratings: ⭐ 4.5/5 ▪︎ 🥵 3/5
🥀 For my rating scale breakdown, head over to my Goodreads &/or Amazon profile! 🖤
Besties… I was NOT prepared for the emotional ride this book put me through. "Trust" dropped me straight into Micah’s nightmare: being us€d, abus€d, and manipulated by his partner who’s supposed to love him. And when he’s forced to betray Ilya? Ugh... the guilt, the fear, the desperate hope Micah clings to… ugh, you can actually feeling the hurt and anguish Micah endures
And then there’s Ilya Zima, our sexy older Russian Bratva boss. This man is a gentle Dom wrapped in a mafia aesthetic, giving pure hurt/comfort perfection. The way he treats Micah with softness and patience... I was MELTING. Also… the spicy scenes??? Besties, they are SPICING.🥵
This was my first time reading anything in this series and from these authors, and let me just say... I am now INVESTED. A dark, spicy, emotional standalone that absolutely delivers. You need to add this to your TBR immediately.
My Ratings: ⭐ 4.5/5 ▪︎ 🥵 3/5
🥀 For my rating scale breakdown, head over to my Goodreads &/or Amazon profile! 🖤
December 13, 2025
Another Ilya to love! What a beautiful, dangerous cinnamon roll mafia boss.
Nothing makes me happier than a “ruthless” man who is gentle, kind and caring. Ilya was a dangerous man who wouldn’t think twice about using his hands to punish his enemies. But when it came to Micah, he had the gentlest of touches.
Micah was everything he didn’t know he needed. His soul deep music resonated with Ilya in a way nothing else ever did. Ilya knew Micah was the man he wanted by his side even if he felt he didn’t deserve him.
Micah wasn’t supposed to fall in love with the man he was spying on. But he couldn’t help it when Ilya was the only person who ever treated him right. The only one who praised and respected him.
It made me so mad that his ex filled with head with so much doubt and made him believe he was worthless. God, I wanted to get inside the book and slap his ex!
I really loved this book. Both Ilya and Micah deserved a chance to be happy. To finally be freed of their pasts and traumas.
Nothing makes me happier than a “ruthless” man who is gentle, kind and caring. Ilya was a dangerous man who wouldn’t think twice about using his hands to punish his enemies. But when it came to Micah, he had the gentlest of touches.
Micah was everything he didn’t know he needed. His soul deep music resonated with Ilya in a way nothing else ever did. Ilya knew Micah was the man he wanted by his side even if he felt he didn’t deserve him.
Micah wasn’t supposed to fall in love with the man he was spying on. But he couldn’t help it when Ilya was the only person who ever treated him right. The only one who praised and respected him.
It made me so mad that his ex filled with head with so much doubt and made him believe he was worthless. God, I wanted to get inside the book and slap his ex!
I really loved this book. Both Ilya and Micah deserved a chance to be happy. To finally be freed of their pasts and traumas.
December 7, 2025
I rarely read books with domestic violence for a reason. They make me unreasonably angry. Among the kinds of people I hate the most are abusive assholes.
Needless to say, I felt visceral anger the whole time I was reading this book. I kept wanting Adam to die painfully, and
That piece of shit dominated Micah's life. It was so obvious in his inner monologues where he questioned every thing, down to his own feelings because of him. It was infuriating to read. Micah feeling that he deserved it was sad.
Ilya was such a perfect partner for him: patient, kind, and understanding. Because of his own experience with domestic violence, he knew how to keep Micah close without pushing him away.
Reading this story gave me a headache, but it was worth it to see them happy without this shit stain of a man poisoning their life.
Needless to say, I felt visceral anger the whole time I was reading this book. I kept wanting Adam to die painfully, and
That piece of shit dominated Micah's life. It was so obvious in his inner monologues where he questioned every thing, down to his own feelings because of him. It was infuriating to read. Micah feeling that he deserved it was sad.
Ilya was such a perfect partner for him: patient, kind, and understanding. Because of his own experience with domestic violence, he knew how to keep Micah close without pushing him away.
Reading this story gave me a headache, but it was worth it to see them happy without this shit stain of a man poisoning their life.
November 24, 2025
Boy was this an emotional ride. Micah’s story was so common and completely heartbreaking. Seeing him attempt to alter himself hoping if he gets it right his partner won’t hurt him, won’t leave him and actually love him. I loved that once Ilya entered the picture he made sure to really see Micha. He spoke to him not at him, he reassured him instead of berating him and he provided him with respect and a place of solace. I enjoyed their relationship development and I really enjoyed Micah coming into his own. Each man carried their own demons but together they helped one another begin to battle them. The glimpses of the side characters we got were fun excluding Adam. As hard as it was to read Micha’s story at times I am glad I picked this up!
💛ARC REVIEW🖤
☑️ Trigger Warnings.
💛ARC REVIEW🖤
☑️ Trigger Warnings.
November 30, 2025
This book definitely has a different vibe to the others in the series but I still really enjoyed it. I think one of the biggest differences was just how emotional it was; I really felt Misha's constant struggle with the situation he was in with Adam and that sense of relief he had when Ilya was taking care of him. In many ways it's not as dark as other books in the series but the characters still have that 'morally grey' feel. I loved the glimpses at other characters like Silvano from the shared world as it definitely helped the world building. I'd have liked a bit more of Ilya and his group but I understand why the focus was where it was. The HEA made me smile and I hope there's more glimpses of these two in the future.
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
December 3, 2025
Poor, sweet Micah is in a horrific situation.
He was caught trying to deal drugs (he wasn't very good at it, hence getting caught)
A dirty cop, Adam, blackmails him into being his boyfriend and to potentially use him to infiltrate Ilya's bratva.
Immediately Ilya senses Micah's pain and fear of Adam.
Throughout the book, we're made aware of how brainwashed he is, how Adam is constantly on his mind, his fear of disappointing him and his evil temper.
Micah has a lot to overcome in order to be free of Adam and he's constantly stalking and harassing him.
Ilya, for all his behavior is surprisingly gentle and kind with Micah, all he wants is to care for and protect him.
He also has his own demons, a result of having grown up in the environment he was raised in.
Together, they're able to help each other heal.
He was caught trying to deal drugs (he wasn't very good at it, hence getting caught)
A dirty cop, Adam, blackmails him into being his boyfriend and to potentially use him to infiltrate Ilya's bratva.
Immediately Ilya senses Micah's pain and fear of Adam.
Throughout the book, we're made aware of how brainwashed he is, how Adam is constantly on his mind, his fear of disappointing him and his evil temper.
Micah has a lot to overcome in order to be free of Adam and he's constantly stalking and harassing him.
Ilya, for all his behavior is surprisingly gentle and kind with Micah, all he wants is to care for and protect him.
He also has his own demons, a result of having grown up in the environment he was raised in.
Together, they're able to help each other heal.
December 2, 2025
Micah is a super easy character to sympathize with— his relationship, such as it is, with his lover, corrupt cop and absolute villain of a human, is twisted and dark in all the not fun ways. It looms large in the story here, and while it’s satisfying to see Micah find Ilya, and the chance for better, the bad influence that is Adam pervades the narrative for a really long time. I would have liked to see a bit more of the post-evil-ex for Micah and Ilya, but I can’t deny that the the characters are vividly drawn here, with strong chemistry, and that the story as is is easy to get sucked into— also, for those who haven’t read the rest of the stories set in this universe, this one can easily stand alone.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
December 3, 2025
This book hit hard. I adore Micah and Ilya. The two are good together and I enjoyed being along for the ride as they figured things out. Both men have a past that has shaped them into what they are today. Micah has only really just survived in life but when he meets Ilya, he begins to see what real affection is. I loved seeing the softness that Micah brings out in Ilya. Micah must find himself and the courage in himself before he can see that he is only surviving and with Ilya he could be thriving.
Having seen the kind of abusive relationship that Micah endures with Adam in real life this story pulled at my heart in ways that I did not expect and I truly felt for Micah. This is a story full of emotions that takes the reader on a ride and has you hoping and believing in love.
Having seen the kind of abusive relationship that Micah endures with Adam in real life this story pulled at my heart in ways that I did not expect and I truly felt for Micah. This is a story full of emotions that takes the reader on a ride and has you hoping and believing in love.
December 3, 2025
This one has trauma for everyone! What an emotional rollercoaster, and I loved every second. Micha's boyfriend is trash and I loved watching how Ilya slowly opened his eyes to acknowledging that he deserves to be treated better. Ilya is both a hard mafia leader but also a guy with a huge heart who wants to take care of those he loves. This one held my attention from the very beginning and wouldn't let me go. This series is awesome, but I think you could also get away with reading this one without any of the others. I'll say, I think Ilya may be my favorite mafia dom so far. He has such a soft touch with Micha. It's heartbreaking but super satisfying and after checking those CW, then give this one a try if you think it's right for you.
December 1, 2025
Slow burn because Micah was still a bit brainwashed and believing the gaslit lies from his ex almost til the end, medium heat, russian mafia boss (bratva) x ex-drug dealer (slash cello player?), rich x poor, abusive cop boyfriend, bdsm-lite in the bedroom, dom x sub, flogger whippings, large age gap
I was hoping the problem with Adam (Micah's abusive ex? boyfriend?) would resolve midway so we could spend more time with Ilya and Micah as a couple. Unfortunately, the task Adam gave Micah was almost always in the forefront of Micah's thoughts, which tainted a lot of his time with Ilya, so it felt like I didn't get enough of the couple to themselves.
Stands-alone well, since I didn't read the other books in the series and read this fine. I had hoped that Micah would have gotten therapy to recognize all the abusive signs from his ex and unlearn all his bad habits and thoughts. Would've also loved to see Ilya take Micah to that bdsm club so they could learn together since it seems like Adam also may have brainwashed Micah's ideas about it.
I was hoping the problem with Adam (Micah's abusive ex? boyfriend?) would resolve midway so we could spend more time with Ilya and Micah as a couple. Unfortunately, the task Adam gave Micah was almost always in the forefront of Micah's thoughts, which tainted a lot of his time with Ilya, so it felt like I didn't get enough of the couple to themselves.
Stands-alone well, since I didn't read the other books in the series and read this fine. I had hoped that Micah would have gotten therapy to recognize all the abusive signs from his ex and unlearn all his bad habits and thoughts. Would've also loved to see Ilya take Micah to that bdsm club so they could learn together since it seems like Adam also may have brainwashed Micah's ideas about it.
December 3, 2025
In this mafia doms book we have Micah, a young man that has lived a tough life and been through a lot and victimized by those around him, and Ilya, a man from Russia, part of the bratva and struggles with the violence around him. These two meet at an amateur open mic night, Ilya doesn’t know it but Micah is there to get close to him, to infiltrate his life and betray him, all at the behest of his boyfriend, a cop who is manipulative and abusive. Micah expects the same treatment, if not worse from Ilya but is surprised to find Ilya is gentle and sweet and encouraging. They are sweet together and spicy, but there is the undercurrent of darkness and betrayal and angst for wanting new lives. It’s a very sweet, dark themed mafia book. Well written and entertaining. I love the world of New Bristol and the men who run the crime world. Micah and Ilya are very different from the previous guys, they are definitely sweeter and more gentle, most of the trigger warnings are about the side characters treatment of Micah and some things in Ilya’s past. But Micah and Ilya together are very sane, safe and consensual in their BDSM steamy times and gentle and sweet in their relationship.
December 3, 2025
Trust is a dark, uneasy romance, one that leans into emotional complexity, moral ambiguity, and a world where love and danger constantly brush against each other. It’s not a cozy read in any sense. It’s intense, raw, and often uncomfortable. But for readers who love M/M BDSM romance with mafia grit, power dynamics, and psychological tension, this story carries real emotional weight.
This isn’t a gentle love story, and it doesn’t pretend to be. It has darker themes and a heavy emotional landscape. with morally gray characters and complicated relationships. Trust absolutely delivers. It challenges, it pushes, and it doesn’t pull its punches.
This isn’t a gentle love story, and it doesn’t pretend to be. It has darker themes and a heavy emotional landscape. with morally gray characters and complicated relationships. Trust absolutely delivers. It challenges, it pushes, and it doesn’t pull its punches.
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September 22, 2025Our next M/M novel! Set in the Mafia Doms world, but it's a complete standalone and you can hop in without having read the previous books. It's coming early December, so please add it to your TBR/preorder so you can get it day 1!
Things to expect:
- overprotective mobster
- abused woobie
- hurt/comfort
- kink
- violence
- BDSM. This is the Mafia Doms series 😂
If you're brand new to the series, you can check out the freebie novella Expectations while you wait! This story introduces the Mafia Doms world.
Things to expect:
- overprotective mobster
- abused woobie
- hurt/comfort
- kink
- violence
- BDSM. This is the Mafia Doms series 😂
If you're brand new to the series, you can check out the freebie novella Expectations while you wait! This story introduces the Mafia Doms world.
November 27, 2025
I love these two authors. They write great dark MM passion filled books. This book is different from the others books in the series. In this book the force that is keeping them apart is the abusive boyfriend of Micah one of our MC's. I don't condone cheating but this guy is a true $%#@ and definitely does not deserve for anyone to call him their partner. Ilya who should be our abusive mafia guy is the caring man that Micah needs. There are many times you just want to shake Micah but eventually there is a HEA. This not my favorite troupe but still a good book. Enjoy!!
November 30, 2025
Micah is trapped within an abusive relationship with his current partner Adam, who is a cop, and the only way he can get out of it is if he reels in Ilya to infiltrate his mafia organization. Once he does, Adam is supposed to get a promotion at work and everything would be "fine" for Micah...
I love the way that Ilya could instantly sense that Micah seemed troubled and wanted to help him, while really *wanting* him as well. Ilya had the perfect touch when it came to gently dominating Micah and wanted him to earn his trust since everyone in Micah's life has walked all over him or hurt him in some way.
I received an ARC and this is my honest review
I love the way that Ilya could instantly sense that Micah seemed troubled and wanted to help him, while really *wanting* him as well. Ilya had the perfect touch when it came to gently dominating Micah and wanted him to earn his trust since everyone in Micah's life has walked all over him or hurt him in some way.
I received an ARC and this is my honest review
December 3, 2025
Micah has been through hell and back. Trust is not something he has in spades.
Illya is an older mafia dom who is patient, hot, has all get-out, and dangerous to those he calls enemies. This read is a very intense ride. I loved every second of it. Very hot and steamy, with emotional depth that makes this book one for the keeper shelves. Read this one when you have time to sink in and enjoy a steamy, gritty story that will stay with you long after you stop reading.
I got this book as an arc for an honest review
Illya is an older mafia dom who is patient, hot, has all get-out, and dangerous to those he calls enemies. This read is a very intense ride. I loved every second of it. Very hot and steamy, with emotional depth that makes this book one for the keeper shelves. Read this one when you have time to sink in and enjoy a steamy, gritty story that will stay with you long after you stop reading.
I got this book as an arc for an honest review
December 10, 2025
Such an amazing read! It had some really dark things in it but it was also beautiful. I loved Micah and Ilya’s story! There are instances of domestic abuse (not between the MCs but between Micah and a past partner) which can be triggering to some people, so please read the trigger warnings at the beginning before reading. I highly recommend this book if you love mafia MM romances and a good HEA. There’s a lot of dark before getting to the HEA but it’s worth it. 10/10 recommend!
I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest review.
I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest review.
November 24, 2025
ARC Review:
I'm always excited to read anything from these authors and I've yet to be disappointed!
Trust is softer than its predecessors but even more heartbreaking as you dive into Micah and Ilya's story. I truly felt moved with Micah's character and Ilya is so wildly different from previous Mafia Doms but no less powerful.
It is a story that makes you eagerly want to turn the next page, and disappointed that you've reached the end. I hope to see more of them in future books!
I'm always excited to read anything from these authors and I've yet to be disappointed!
Trust is softer than its predecessors but even more heartbreaking as you dive into Micah and Ilya's story. I truly felt moved with Micah's character and Ilya is so wildly different from previous Mafia Doms but no less powerful.
It is a story that makes you eagerly want to turn the next page, and disappointed that you've reached the end. I hope to see more of them in future books!
November 25, 2025
I received an Advanced Reader Copy.
I love the way Micah was written. All the way down to the effect the abuse had on his psych. The self doubt, the need to please, and the survival mode. The growth he went through during and after every thing he had gone through. Ilya was a sweetheart and I love how he wanted to make sure Micah was comfortable and safe. I love how patience and understanding he was with him. I love how he did not want to be like his father. Beautiful story.
I love the way Micah was written. All the way down to the effect the abuse had on his psych. The self doubt, the need to please, and the survival mode. The growth he went through during and after every thing he had gone through. Ilya was a sweetheart and I love how he wanted to make sure Micah was comfortable and safe. I love how patience and understanding he was with him. I love how he did not want to be like his father. Beautiful story.
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