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Her BRATVA Protector
My late, deadbeat husband left us one last “gift”: a marriage contract with the Bratva…
But when I open the door expecting an older Pakhan came to claim my sweet, young stepdaughter, I’m met with a six-plus-feet, bearded, tattooed Scottish menace.
Adam Maksimov is unhinged, ridiculously hot, filthy rich, and he says I’m his! That he’s putting a baby in me, and our wedding is happening whether I walk down the aisle on my own feet or thrown over his shoulder…
This is a bite-sized, scorching hot, instalove Bratva romance. With a curvy queen who takes no nonsense (well, she tries…), a delicious reverse age-gap, all the breeding, an OTT, obsessed, possessive Bratva alpha, no cheating, no cliffhanger, and a guaranteed HEA.
If that’s your thing, come meet The Mad Scot. IF NOT, PLEASE PASS!
But when I open the door expecting an older Pakhan came to claim my sweet, young stepdaughter, I’m met with a six-plus-feet, bearded, tattooed Scottish menace.
Adam Maksimov is unhinged, ridiculously hot, filthy rich, and he says I’m his! That he’s putting a baby in me, and our wedding is happening whether I walk down the aisle on my own feet or thrown over his shoulder…
This is a bite-sized, scorching hot, instalove Bratva romance. With a curvy queen who takes no nonsense (well, she tries…), a delicious reverse age-gap, all the breeding, an OTT, obsessed, possessive Bratva alpha, no cheating, no cliffhanger, and a guaranteed HEA.
If that’s your thing, come meet The Mad Scot. IF NOT, PLEASE PASS!
110 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 13, 2026
About the author
Imani Jay
185 books545 followersUSA Today Bestselling Author Imani Jay writes sweet and spicy romance with instalove, instalust, and little to no drama. Just curvy queens who get claimed by their hunky alpha males. Whether it’s in the boardroom, the mafia, OmegaVerse, or with a forbidden twist, Imani’s stories deliver high heat and heart. Ready for your next dirty pleasure? Imani’s got you covered!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 109 reviews
June 17, 2026
Basically will melt your knickers right off.
June 13, 2026
Lisa Venn has a problem … Her terrible husband has died and left nothing but issues - including a marriage contract out in the ether. Enter Adam Maksimov… Though he doesn't want her daughter. He wants her!!!
Lisa was treated shabbily in her previous marriage. But she still has a fire that Adam not only respects, he wants to see more of!!! I love that. He's called the ‘Mad Scot of Edinburgh’ and he’s crazy… for her and her daughter. I just absolutely adore him. He's amazing book boyfriend material. ❤️ He is such a Scottish dirty talkin’, swoon-worthy man and I just can't get enough!
This is a heartwarming instalove read with a reverse age gap that I gobbled up so quickly! I need to read more in Imani Jay’s backlist!! I can't wait for more in this series as well! ‘Her Bratva Protector’ was lovely!
Lisa was treated shabbily in her previous marriage. But she still has a fire that Adam not only respects, he wants to see more of!!! I love that. He's called the ‘Mad Scot of Edinburgh’ and he’s crazy… for her and her daughter. I just absolutely adore him. He's amazing book boyfriend material. ❤️ He is such a Scottish dirty talkin’, swoon-worthy man and I just can't get enough!
This is a heartwarming instalove read with a reverse age gap that I gobbled up so quickly! I need to read more in Imani Jay’s backlist!! I can't wait for more in this series as well! ‘Her Bratva Protector’ was lovely!
June 14, 2026
This was actually very sweet and tender, especially considering the prologue,Lol.I I love Adam for Lisa! 😍 Beautifully written and just a great read. The only complaint I have is...it is too short. I wish Ms. Jay could have expounded more on their romance. But in every other word just beautifully written, and I enjoyed every moment. 4 stars!!!🌟 🌟🌟🌟
And the epilogue???
10 out of 10!
And the epilogue???
10 out of 10!
June 13, 2026
Tropes: Instalove, Mafia, Matchmaking, Opposites, Reverse Age Gap. Unhinged MC
In Her BRATVA Protector Imani Jay brings her legion readers another instalove story with a joyous connection, a dedicated man and a deserving woman.
This story is a part of the series, Halo City Protectors Romance, the books have similar themes but can be read as standalones.
I loved how the book started as Viktor and Jamie Maksimov discuss the problem of Adam and his exploits. He needs a task to take the place of his current unhinged extracurricular activities. What better way to engage his interest than matrimony?
Adam obediently follows his instructions to look into marrying the Venn girl…even as he refers to her as a “bairn”. His plan of compliance lasts as long as it takes him to knock on the front door. Because at the door stands the woman of his dreams, Mrs. Lisa Venn, not the daughter but the stepmother and she is destined to be his!
Lisa Venn has spent a decade married to a man she didn’t love and who didn’t love her. The only positive thing from their union is her (step) daughter, Jasmine. His entire empire is in shambles, much like the house and their finances. Within minutes of meeting, Adam is telling her that he is going to marry HER! Can she believe that he is sincere and that real love is possible after years of living half a life?
Conclusion:
Ms. Jay excels at quick, insanely hot stories with emotional gravity and engaging characters. Readers are immediately invested in Adam as his relatives try to reign him in. As scary as he sounds, his immediate response to Lisa and Jasmine’s plight is gentle help and protection. Lisa deserved the love and care that Adam provided and they had amazing chemistry. I also loved his parental stance with Jasmine as he showed her with fathering looked like. Final words, this story was excellent, brief but filling. Ms. Jay kindly provides a two-chapter epilogue that takes the couple down the road a bit that is free to download😊.
Favorite Lines:
She’s the most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen in my life.
I slightly incline my head, the way my mother taught me when I was a boy and she wanted me to know I could be terrifying and a gentleman.
“Did this man come here for me, meet you and decide he was marrying you?”
My daughter, who is supposed to be helping me think this through, is cackling.
The terrifying gentleman thing, except recalibrated for someone who does not need to be terrified.
He kisses me like he’s been thinking about it for years instead of hours.
I’ve come undone against a wall, now I’m in his arms, and I have not even given him anything, and he is asleep behind me with his face in my hair, peaceful, like he came home.
But the frequency of the house has changed, and somewhere two floors above me my woman has opened her eyes, and the Mad Scot’s whole nervous system knows.
https://theretiredreader.com/f/her-br...
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
In Her BRATVA Protector Imani Jay brings her legion readers another instalove story with a joyous connection, a dedicated man and a deserving woman.
This story is a part of the series, Halo City Protectors Romance, the books have similar themes but can be read as standalones.
I loved how the book started as Viktor and Jamie Maksimov discuss the problem of Adam and his exploits. He needs a task to take the place of his current unhinged extracurricular activities. What better way to engage his interest than matrimony?
Adam obediently follows his instructions to look into marrying the Venn girl…even as he refers to her as a “bairn”. His plan of compliance lasts as long as it takes him to knock on the front door. Because at the door stands the woman of his dreams, Mrs. Lisa Venn, not the daughter but the stepmother and she is destined to be his!
Lisa Venn has spent a decade married to a man she didn’t love and who didn’t love her. The only positive thing from their union is her (step) daughter, Jasmine. His entire empire is in shambles, much like the house and their finances. Within minutes of meeting, Adam is telling her that he is going to marry HER! Can she believe that he is sincere and that real love is possible after years of living half a life?
Conclusion:
Ms. Jay excels at quick, insanely hot stories with emotional gravity and engaging characters. Readers are immediately invested in Adam as his relatives try to reign him in. As scary as he sounds, his immediate response to Lisa and Jasmine’s plight is gentle help and protection. Lisa deserved the love and care that Adam provided and they had amazing chemistry. I also loved his parental stance with Jasmine as he showed her with fathering looked like. Final words, this story was excellent, brief but filling. Ms. Jay kindly provides a two-chapter epilogue that takes the couple down the road a bit that is free to download😊.
Favorite Lines:
She’s the most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen in my life.
I slightly incline my head, the way my mother taught me when I was a boy and she wanted me to know I could be terrifying and a gentleman.
“Did this man come here for me, meet you and decide he was marrying you?”
My daughter, who is supposed to be helping me think this through, is cackling.
The terrifying gentleman thing, except recalibrated for someone who does not need to be terrified.
He kisses me like he’s been thinking about it for years instead of hours.
I’ve come undone against a wall, now I’m in his arms, and I have not even given him anything, and he is asleep behind me with his face in my hair, peaceful, like he came home.
But the frequency of the house has changed, and somewhere two floors above me my woman has opened her eyes, and the Mad Scot’s whole nervous system knows.
https://theretiredreader.com/f/her-br...
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
5/5, delicious, over the top, insta love mafia romance novella
I’m not always into mafia books, but I signed for this ARC because it’s Imani Jay, and her books are so much fun. AND I WAS RIGHT!
A 28 year old Scottish Bratva boss with a tendency to murder bad guys just because #whynot is instantly crushing hard on an 35 year old curvy mob boss widow, who’s a stepmother of a 20 year old girl who he has never met but was supposed to marry.
I love that when the MMC meets our FMC she’s wearing an old dress, she’s sweating and feels gross, yet he cannot contain his insta lust and he’s immediately hit with an absolute certainty that she’s the one for him, not her stepdaughter.
It low key helps that our FMC thinks the MMC is the hottest man she’s ever seen. Hah, I live for this sh!t ◡̈
Highlights:
- the 28 year old mafia guy decides that the 20 year old girl is too young for him, as she’s practically a child (sorry, a bairn) and he wants to marry a grown ass woman. YES YES YES YES!!! Men written by women, seriously… <3
- He’s tall, dark, tattooed and devastatingly handsome (never hurts)
- His first s*xual thought about the FMC is about putting his mouth on her, not the other way around (again, men written by women <34567)
- The stepdaughter’s reaction to the news was hilarious, I laughed out loud during that scene. I loved her and FMC’s relationship.
- He left a lamp on during the first time they slept in the same bed, because he didn’t want her waking up in a dark room with a strange man <3
- He did a 100 more ridiculously sweet (and OTT) things and I loved him for them all.
Favorite quotes:
“You came here for Jasmine. She…”
“I dinnae want Jasmine.” What?! “She’s a child,” he adds. “I have nae interest in marrying a child. I will not be putting my hands on a twenty-year-old lass. She can keep her life and whatever she’s got going on. I dinnae want her.”
“Then…then you agree there’s no contract.”
“Aye, there is, love. I want you.”
HELL YEAH HE DOES!!!
“Did this man come here for me, meet you and decide he was marrying you?”
“Jasmine, this is serious. It’s not funny.”
She smirks. “Was he hot?”
“Jasmine.”
“Was. He. Hot?”
HAHAHAH the stepdaughter’s reaction scene was hilarious, I can’t paste it all here, just go read this freaking book! ◡̈
~~~~~~
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. If you enjoy slightly(?) unhinged and very over the top MMCs who worship their women (especially when those women are older and curvy), then go get this one and enjoy!! ◡̈
I’m not always into mafia books, but I signed for this ARC because it’s Imani Jay, and her books are so much fun. AND I WAS RIGHT!
A 28 year old Scottish Bratva boss with a tendency to murder bad guys just because #whynot is instantly crushing hard on an 35 year old curvy mob boss widow, who’s a stepmother of a 20 year old girl who he has never met but was supposed to marry.
I love that when the MMC meets our FMC she’s wearing an old dress, she’s sweating and feels gross, yet he cannot contain his insta lust and he’s immediately hit with an absolute certainty that she’s the one for him, not her stepdaughter.
It low key helps that our FMC thinks the MMC is the hottest man she’s ever seen. Hah, I live for this sh!t ◡̈
Highlights:
- the 28 year old mafia guy decides that the 20 year old girl is too young for him, as she’s practically a child (sorry, a bairn) and he wants to marry a grown ass woman. YES YES YES YES!!! Men written by women, seriously… <3
- He’s tall, dark, tattooed and devastatingly handsome (never hurts)
- His first s*xual thought about the FMC is about putting his mouth on her, not the other way around (again, men written by women <34567)
- The stepdaughter’s reaction to the news was hilarious, I laughed out loud during that scene. I loved her and FMC’s relationship.
- He left a lamp on during the first time they slept in the same bed, because he didn’t want her waking up in a dark room with a strange man <3
- He did a 100 more ridiculously sweet (and OTT) things and I loved him for them all.
Favorite quotes:
“You came here for Jasmine. She…”
“I dinnae want Jasmine.” What?! “She’s a child,” he adds. “I have nae interest in marrying a child. I will not be putting my hands on a twenty-year-old lass. She can keep her life and whatever she’s got going on. I dinnae want her.”
“Then…then you agree there’s no contract.”
“Aye, there is, love. I want you.”
HELL YEAH HE DOES!!!
“Did this man come here for me, meet you and decide he was marrying you?”
“Jasmine, this is serious. It’s not funny.”
She smirks. “Was he hot?”
“Jasmine.”
“Was. He. Hot?”
HAHAHAH the stepdaughter’s reaction scene was hilarious, I can’t paste it all here, just go read this freaking book! ◡̈
~~~~~~
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. If you enjoy slightly(?) unhinged and very over the top MMCs who worship their women (especially when those women are older and curvy), then go get this one and enjoy!! ◡̈
June 13, 2026
Could there be anything hotter than a Bratva boss arriving to claim his young contract bride, only to fall head over heels for her widowed stepmother instead? As it turns out, yes. Make that Bratva boss Scottish, armed with a brogue capable of melting your panties on contact, and you've got Adam Maksimov. Adam is a tattooed, dangerous force of nature who takes one look at Lisa Venn when she answers the door and instantly knows he wants nothing to do with the girl he came to claim. He wants Lisa. He wants her at his side, in his home, and in his bed. More than that, he wants to know everything about her—the sound of her laughter, the scent of her skin, the way she looks when she wakes up and when she falls asleep. Love at first sight doesn't even begin to cover it. Adam is utterly, gloriously obsessed. What made me fall for Adam, though, was that beneath all that possessive intensity was a surprising amount of restraint. He didn't want to take what wasn't freely given. He wanted Lisa to choose him. After years trapped in a marriage that had become cold, cruel, and indifferent, the way Adam looked at her had Lisa questioning everything she thought she knew about herself and her future. When Adam discovers that Lisa and her daughter were effectively abandoned by her late husband's men the moment he was laid to rest, he steps in without hesitation and announces that he's moving in. Lisa will never be left unprotected ever again if he has anything to say about it. One of the book's funniest moments comes when Jasmine returns home and discovers that Adam has chosen her mother instead of her. I adored the relationship between Lisa and Jasmine, which felt more like two sisters than a traditional mother-daughter dynamic. Jasmine wholeheartedly encourages Lisa to take a chance on happiness, and I loved that Adam immediately embraced Jasmine as part of the package, taking her under his protection too. For all his ruthless Bratva tendencies and willingness to eliminate anyone who wronged Lisa, Adam is achingly tender when it comes to the woman he loves. The contrast between his deadly reputation and his devotion to Lisa made every interaction irresistible. And while the romance is sweet, the chemistry is scorching, delivering plenty of heat as their passion ignites. A deliciously addictive Bratva romance filled with fierce devotion, found family, and a hero who falls hard and never looks back. Adam and Lisa completely stole my heart, and I couldn't turn the pages fast enough.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 14, 2026
**Hot Scottish Bratva Boss!**
"Her BRATVA Protector" is the sixth book in the multi-author series "A Halo City Protectors." Who doesn’t love a hot Scottish man who falls hard and fast the moment he meets the woman he knows is meant to be his forever? Count me in!
When Adam arrives to claim his contract bride, he feels an immediate and strong connection to Lisa the moment she opens the door. He knows she is the one he is meant to be with, not her stepdaughter, Jasmine, whom he never wanted anything to do with in the first place.
Lisa is hesitant at first because she is a recent widow, having been married for years to an abusive man. She feels obligated to honor the contract left by her late husband. However, she can't deny the intense desire and passion she feels for Adam—emotions she has never experienced before. Despite her reservations, she feels safe and protected in such a short time, not only for herself but also for her daughter. Lisa and Jasmine share a bond stronger than that of a typical stepmother and stepdaughter, stemming from the neglect they both endured.
From the moment Adam sees Lisa, he not only claims her but also embraces her daughter, Jasmine, as his own. He fiercely protects what is his.
I truly enjoyed Adam and Lisa’s love story; it was fast-paced and easy to read. The intense, over-the-top, possessive nature of this Bratva boss as he finds his Queen and Princess is heartwarming. He treats them the way they should always have been treated. The story is heartfelt, warm, and genuinely engaging.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
"Her BRATVA Protector" is the sixth book in the multi-author series "A Halo City Protectors." Who doesn’t love a hot Scottish man who falls hard and fast the moment he meets the woman he knows is meant to be his forever? Count me in!
When Adam arrives to claim his contract bride, he feels an immediate and strong connection to Lisa the moment she opens the door. He knows she is the one he is meant to be with, not her stepdaughter, Jasmine, whom he never wanted anything to do with in the first place.
Lisa is hesitant at first because she is a recent widow, having been married for years to an abusive man. She feels obligated to honor the contract left by her late husband. However, she can't deny the intense desire and passion she feels for Adam—emotions she has never experienced before. Despite her reservations, she feels safe and protected in such a short time, not only for herself but also for her daughter. Lisa and Jasmine share a bond stronger than that of a typical stepmother and stepdaughter, stemming from the neglect they both endured.
From the moment Adam sees Lisa, he not only claims her but also embraces her daughter, Jasmine, as his own. He fiercely protects what is his.
I truly enjoyed Adam and Lisa’s love story; it was fast-paced and easy to read. The intense, over-the-top, possessive nature of this Bratva boss as he finds his Queen and Princess is heartwarming. He treats them the way they should always have been treated. The story is heartfelt, warm, and genuinely engaging.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
If you crave an explosive, instant-attraction story packed with overwhelming possessiveness and delicious narrative twists, you will find Her Bratva Protector to be an absolute rush. Jay takes the dark, dangerous world of the Russian mafia and injects it with a thrilling, unique edge: a towering, tattooed Scottish-Russian menace who is entirely unhinged when it comes to claiming the woman who was meant to be a cold business contract.
The story kicks off with a brilliant, high-tension hook: a widow opens her door expecting an older mob boss to claim her young stepdaughter under a contract left by her late husband. Instead, she is confronted by Adam Maksimov—a ridiculously hot, six-foot-plus billionaire enforcer who declares that she is the one he’s taking. The dynamic between them is immediate and fiercely passionate, especially with the inclusion of a fantastic reverse age-gap where a confident, curvy heroine tries to maintain her footing against a completely obsessed alpha. Jay completely excels at writing a fast-paced, insta-love romance where the hero has zero boundaries, completely bypassing any negotiation by promising to carry her down the aisle over his shoulder if necessary. It is a sleek, high-heat, and deeply comforting read that delivers pure, protective alpha devotion without any unnecessary drama or cliffhangers.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The story kicks off with a brilliant, high-tension hook: a widow opens her door expecting an older mob boss to claim her young stepdaughter under a contract left by her late husband. Instead, she is confronted by Adam Maksimov—a ridiculously hot, six-foot-plus billionaire enforcer who declares that she is the one he’s taking. The dynamic between them is immediate and fiercely passionate, especially with the inclusion of a fantastic reverse age-gap where a confident, curvy heroine tries to maintain her footing against a completely obsessed alpha. Jay completely excels at writing a fast-paced, insta-love romance where the hero has zero boundaries, completely bypassing any negotiation by promising to carry her down the aisle over his shoulder if necessary. It is a sleek, high-heat, and deeply comforting read that delivers pure, protective alpha devotion without any unnecessary drama or cliffhangers.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 13, 2026
Her Bratva Protector was a quick, intense, and satisfying read with plenty of heat and heart. And let me just say…you can officially add “good lass” right beside “good girl” on the list of phrases that will absolutely do it every time. 🥵
At its core, this story is an insta-love romance, but what made it work for me was the emotional connection. Adam Maksimov arrives at Lisa Venn’s home to fulfill a family contract, expecting to claim a Venn daughter as his bride. But the moment he sees Lisa, he knows she’s the one he wants. From there, his devotion to her is immediate and unwavering.
I found myself genuinely happy for Lisa, feeling every bit of her emotional journey as she was finally loved, protected, and cared for the way she deserved. Knowing that her marriage to Jasmine’s father had been abusive made Adam’s presence in her life feel even more meaningful.
One of my favorite parts of the story was Lisa’s relationship with her stepdaughter, Jasmine. Their bond felt much more like mother and daughter than stepmother and stepdaughter, and it was clear that relationship had been one of the few bright spots in Lisa’s difficult marriage.
Adam showing up not only for Lisa but for Jasmine as well made this story all the more beautiful. If you enjoy possessive heroes, instant attraction, protective romance, and family-centered emotional moments, this one is definitely worth picking up.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
At its core, this story is an insta-love romance, but what made it work for me was the emotional connection. Adam Maksimov arrives at Lisa Venn’s home to fulfill a family contract, expecting to claim a Venn daughter as his bride. But the moment he sees Lisa, he knows she’s the one he wants. From there, his devotion to her is immediate and unwavering.
I found myself genuinely happy for Lisa, feeling every bit of her emotional journey as she was finally loved, protected, and cared for the way she deserved. Knowing that her marriage to Jasmine’s father had been abusive made Adam’s presence in her life feel even more meaningful.
One of my favorite parts of the story was Lisa’s relationship with her stepdaughter, Jasmine. Their bond felt much more like mother and daughter than stepmother and stepdaughter, and it was clear that relationship had been one of the few bright spots in Lisa’s difficult marriage.
Adam showing up not only for Lisa but for Jasmine as well made this story all the more beautiful. If you enjoy possessive heroes, instant attraction, protective romance, and family-centered emotional moments, this one is definitely worth picking up.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 17, 2026
This book is part of the multi author Halo City Protectors series but seems like it’s most likely a part of her Maksimov Family Bratva collection though I have to say, I haven’t read any of them yet—a problem I definitely need to rectify.
Ms. Jay is a fairly new to me author, I’ve only read one other of her books but, I already know, I’ve found a new (one of my) favorite author! This book was amazing! It literally didn’t read like a book, it was as if it was actually happening in real time and written as it occurred—word for word, pauses included, even when the words couldn’t be found—it was perfection!!! And oh my gosh, I LOVED the MMCs Scottish dialect! The dialogue sounded like it could very well be 100% authentic and never, best as I remember, accidentally reverted back to English as some of the other books I’ve read have.
I just can not say enough about how much I enjoyed this book; there was not even ONE thing I would change, it was everything I look for in a romance—it ticked all the boxes and just blew me away with a new favorite book so far this month (and that’s a lot of books!). The only thing I can add is this, you definitely don’t want to miss this book! I’ve already said it but it bears repeating, this book was amazing so grab it today! 5 stars
I received a copy of this book for free but am voluntarily leaving a review.
Ms. Jay is a fairly new to me author, I’ve only read one other of her books but, I already know, I’ve found a new (one of my) favorite author! This book was amazing! It literally didn’t read like a book, it was as if it was actually happening in real time and written as it occurred—word for word, pauses included, even when the words couldn’t be found—it was perfection!!! And oh my gosh, I LOVED the MMCs Scottish dialect! The dialogue sounded like it could very well be 100% authentic and never, best as I remember, accidentally reverted back to English as some of the other books I’ve read have.
I just can not say enough about how much I enjoyed this book; there was not even ONE thing I would change, it was everything I look for in a romance—it ticked all the boxes and just blew me away with a new favorite book so far this month (and that’s a lot of books!). The only thing I can add is this, you definitely don’t want to miss this book! I’ve already said it but it bears repeating, this book was amazing so grab it today! 5 stars
I received a copy of this book for free but am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
Her Bratva Protector by Imani Jay is part of the multi-author A Halo City Protectors Romance series and was a good read.
It is a steamy instalove, reverse age gap, possessive alpha, bratva romance with morally grey protector Adam Maksimov and widow Lisa Venn as the engaging main characters.
The plot and storyline had me hooked quickly as we follow Scotsman Adam, sent to Halo City by his father and uncle to fulfil the marriage contract that Lisa's late husband had agreed with the Bratva for his daughter.
One look at Lisa and Adam was smitten and all thoughts of marriage to her stepdaughter were refocused on Lisa.
Protectiveness, possessiveness and obsession with Lisa all appear to take over as Adam systematically takes care of things as well as Lisa to ensure that he wins her over.
There is high heat and sizzling chemistry between them but Lisa is guarded and initially is hesitant towards Adam's alpha confidence but his care and consideration towards her and Jasmine quickly wins her over and some steamy and spicy moments ensue.
This is a short spicy read that was a thoroughly entertaining read and had me turning pages eagerly right to the end to see how their HEA comes about.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
It is a steamy instalove, reverse age gap, possessive alpha, bratva romance with morally grey protector Adam Maksimov and widow Lisa Venn as the engaging main characters.
The plot and storyline had me hooked quickly as we follow Scotsman Adam, sent to Halo City by his father and uncle to fulfil the marriage contract that Lisa's late husband had agreed with the Bratva for his daughter.
One look at Lisa and Adam was smitten and all thoughts of marriage to her stepdaughter were refocused on Lisa.
Protectiveness, possessiveness and obsession with Lisa all appear to take over as Adam systematically takes care of things as well as Lisa to ensure that he wins her over.
There is high heat and sizzling chemistry between them but Lisa is guarded and initially is hesitant towards Adam's alpha confidence but his care and consideration towards her and Jasmine quickly wins her over and some steamy and spicy moments ensue.
This is a short spicy read that was a thoroughly entertaining read and had me turning pages eagerly right to the end to see how their HEA comes about.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 20, 2026
A fast, addictive read with big personality, Her Bratva Protector delivers exactly the kind of high-energy romance its description promises. I loved how quickly the story pulls you in with a bold premise, a fiercely independent heroine, and an over-the-top protector who makes every scene feel dramatic, intense, and impossible to put down.
The chemistry between the leads is immediate and electric, and the author leans fully into the fun of a possessive Bratva hero without losing the playful, escapist tone that makes the book so enjoyable. Adam Maksimov is larger-than-life in the best way, while Lisa Venn brings heart, humor, and enough backbone to make their whirlwind romance feel satisfying.
This is a great pick for readers who enjoy short, steamy, unapologetically dramatic romance with instant attraction, protective devotion, and a guaranteed happily-ever-after. It is quick, entertaining, and packed with the kind of romantic intensity that makes it perfect for an evening escape.
Overall, I had a fantastic time with this book. It is bold, spicy, and wonderfully indulgent, and I would happily recommend it to anyone looking for a passionate, fast-paced romance that knows exactly what it is and delivers with confidence.
The chemistry between the leads is immediate and electric, and the author leans fully into the fun of a possessive Bratva hero without losing the playful, escapist tone that makes the book so enjoyable. Adam Maksimov is larger-than-life in the best way, while Lisa Venn brings heart, humor, and enough backbone to make their whirlwind romance feel satisfying.
This is a great pick for readers who enjoy short, steamy, unapologetically dramatic romance with instant attraction, protective devotion, and a guaranteed happily-ever-after. It is quick, entertaining, and packed with the kind of romantic intensity that makes it perfect for an evening escape.
Overall, I had a fantastic time with this book. It is bold, spicy, and wonderfully indulgent, and I would happily recommend it to anyone looking for a passionate, fast-paced romance that knows exactly what it is and delivers with confidence.
June 17, 2026
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book was exactly what I needed at the time.
At a little over 100 pages, it's the perfect palate cleanser.
We have mafia bosses, an overly protective protector, plenty of chemistry, and enough spice to keep things entertaining. Is there a deep, complex plot? Not really. But I don't think that's what this book is trying to be. It's meant to be a quick escape, and for that purpose, it works.
One thing I really appreciated is how Imani Jay writes female characters. Curvy and refreshingly real. It was nice to read about a woman who felt like an actual person rather than a perfect, impossible standard. Those little details made the story much more enjoyable for me.
The romance was sweet, the protective hero was exactly as possessive and over-the-top as you'd expect from this kind of novella, and the overall vibe was simply fun.
My one struggle was the Scottish dialect. If I'm watching a movie or a TV show, I love hearing accents and regional speech patterns. Reading them on the page, however, is a completely different experience.
This book was exactly what I needed at the time.
At a little over 100 pages, it's the perfect palate cleanser.
We have mafia bosses, an overly protective protector, plenty of chemistry, and enough spice to keep things entertaining. Is there a deep, complex plot? Not really. But I don't think that's what this book is trying to be. It's meant to be a quick escape, and for that purpose, it works.
One thing I really appreciated is how Imani Jay writes female characters. Curvy and refreshingly real. It was nice to read about a woman who felt like an actual person rather than a perfect, impossible standard. Those little details made the story much more enjoyable for me.
The romance was sweet, the protective hero was exactly as possessive and over-the-top as you'd expect from this kind of novella, and the overall vibe was simply fun.
My one struggle was the Scottish dialect. If I'm watching a movie or a TV show, I love hearing accents and regional speech patterns. Reading them on the page, however, is a completely different experience.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A captivating read, wonderful characters and plot that holds you riveted from start to finish
This was a simply wonderful read I have to say that I have been waiting for this book and I was completely blown away. Lisa is simply wonderful she has gone without so much, her only concern being that her beautiful daughter survives and grows strong and happy.
Adam comes into their life and from the moment that he met Lisa he knew that he wanted to make her his and his alone, he cares for her daughter Jasmine who is a beautiful twenty-year-old who he wants her to see him as her step-father.
This is a simply captivating read and I guarantee that readers will be blown away by this simply riveting read and I guarantee that readers will be captivated by this simply wonderful storyline and the simply amazing characters within.
I thoroughly enjoyed the book and look forward to reading any future publications; keep up all the wonderful writing.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This was a simply wonderful read I have to say that I have been waiting for this book and I was completely blown away. Lisa is simply wonderful she has gone without so much, her only concern being that her beautiful daughter survives and grows strong and happy.
Adam comes into their life and from the moment that he met Lisa he knew that he wanted to make her his and his alone, he cares for her daughter Jasmine who is a beautiful twenty-year-old who he wants her to see him as her step-father.
This is a simply captivating read and I guarantee that readers will be blown away by this simply riveting read and I guarantee that readers will be captivated by this simply wonderful storyline and the simply amazing characters within.
I thoroughly enjoyed the book and look forward to reading any future publications; keep up all the wonderful writing.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5*
I do love a man whose lethal, ruthless and only soft and tender with the woman he loves, and the Mad Scot was that and so much more! I loved Adam's character, he was everything you could want from a morally gray MMC and he would do literally anything for the woman he loved. I really liked how he accepted Jasmine so quickly and protected both of them. Lisa was a sweetheart who had been dealt a bad hand in life, but had come away stronger and with a step daughter that she loved fiercely. I did find Jasmine to be a bit immature for her 20 years, but the relationship between her and Lisa was very sweet. There were a few logistical things missed, like he was going up the stairs for her and then the next chapter she's meeting him in the kitchen. I also thought a big plotline was not going to be tied up, but it was tied up so well in the bonus chapter. No cheating or OM/OW drama, reverse age gap of 28 MMC to 35 FMC, steamy, breeding kink, dual POV, HEA and a sweet/steamy epilogue. I hope we get more books for his sister, men and even Jasmine!
I do love a man whose lethal, ruthless and only soft and tender with the woman he loves, and the Mad Scot was that and so much more! I loved Adam's character, he was everything you could want from a morally gray MMC and he would do literally anything for the woman he loved. I really liked how he accepted Jasmine so quickly and protected both of them. Lisa was a sweetheart who had been dealt a bad hand in life, but had come away stronger and with a step daughter that she loved fiercely. I did find Jasmine to be a bit immature for her 20 years, but the relationship between her and Lisa was very sweet. There were a few logistical things missed, like he was going up the stairs for her and then the next chapter she's meeting him in the kitchen. I also thought a big plotline was not going to be tied up, but it was tied up so well in the bonus chapter. No cheating or OM/OW drama, reverse age gap of 28 MMC to 35 FMC, steamy, breeding kink, dual POV, HEA and a sweet/steamy epilogue. I hope we get more books for his sister, men and even Jasmine!
Review of advance copy
Her Bratva Protector was so OMG good the author put the heart and soul into this one.
If I could have my own OTT Adam Maksimov I would be ever so happy!
Adam is known as the Mad Scot of Edinburgh and is causing problems for his Bratva family who decides to send him over seas and far away to take over a deceased boss’s turf, as well as cementing a marriage contract with the deceased man’s daughter.
Well part of that will work until Adam meets the widow Lisa then all bets are off.
He is more than smitten, more than insta love, the mighty HAVETH fallen, and just so things remain fair Lisa is just as smitten when she opens the front door.
The chemistry is burning the boudoir down, and kitchen, and any available space or wall.
Loved the writing, characters and story, breeding kink, possessive alpha male, family dynamics, humor, and how perfect they were for each other.
A short, spicy grandiose of a read! HEA.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
If I could have my own OTT Adam Maksimov I would be ever so happy!
Adam is known as the Mad Scot of Edinburgh and is causing problems for his Bratva family who decides to send him over seas and far away to take over a deceased boss’s turf, as well as cementing a marriage contract with the deceased man’s daughter.
Well part of that will work until Adam meets the widow Lisa then all bets are off.
He is more than smitten, more than insta love, the mighty HAVETH fallen, and just so things remain fair Lisa is just as smitten when she opens the front door.
The chemistry is burning the boudoir down, and kitchen, and any available space or wall.
Loved the writing, characters and story, breeding kink, possessive alpha male, family dynamics, humor, and how perfect they were for each other.
A short, spicy grandiose of a read! HEA.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Her Bratva Protector is steaming hot, intense, love at first sight with an alpha-dirty talking dark hero and a slightly off her rocker female queen. Poor Lisa was sold a decade ago to her now dead husband by her father, and at 35 she doesn’t have any clue how a woman should be treated. Enter brooding, dangerous unaliver Adam—whose bloodlust and unhinged behavior have deemed him of “cleaning up” the dead man’s territory. One look at Lisa and he goes absolutely feral for her in the hottest of ways. I adored how he immediately takes care of her and is soft only for her and her step-daughter, showing them how a queen and her child should be treated. The daughter, Jasmine, his hilarious and brings the laughs, while Adam and Lisa have such intense vibes between them, and the lust between them is over the top. If you are into instant-love alpha protector filthy feralness, this is definitely a must read!!!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Adam was sent to fulfill an old contract of marrying into a family for better gain for their Bratva. Lisa has been living day to day not knowing what is going to happen. She didn't have a good marriage the only thing good that has come out of it all was her step-daughter who she thinks as her own. All her husbands men were not very loyal and either stole from her as they left or they just left and abandoned everything and left her and her step-daughter unprotected. Adam was furious when he arrived to see the conditions Lisa was living in, and as soon as he saw her he knew she was his. The way Adam took care of Lisa and her daughter immediately was so sweet and the only soft spot this man had was those two women in his life. He made sure everything was put right and he made sure they were protected and taken care of. The way these two came together made for a really good read and I enjoyed every minute of this book. This is a must read!!
June 22, 2026
Adam and his brogue will be enough to start your heart even if he is a member of the Bratva. His family has decided that they need to reign him in and what better than to have him complete the marriage that has been arranged for him. The only problem is that when arrives he doesn’t want it with Jasmine, the woman who was supposed to be his intended, and wants her stepmother Lisa instead.
When Lisa’s husband passed away it wasn’t a heartbreaking loss as their marriage wasn’t really a marriage anymore. When Adam arrives at her door she can’t deny the attraction she has for him and although she has her reservations Adam is all in and so is Jasmine
Adam is swoony as when he finds out about Lisa and Jasmine’s situation he is determined to protect them and ensure that those you wronged them are held accountable. The banter is humorous and the heat between them scorching as this story doesn’t disappoint.
When Lisa’s husband passed away it wasn’t a heartbreaking loss as their marriage wasn’t really a marriage anymore. When Adam arrives at her door she can’t deny the attraction she has for him and although she has her reservations Adam is all in and so is Jasmine
Adam is swoony as when he finds out about Lisa and Jasmine’s situation he is determined to protect them and ensure that those you wronged them are held accountable. The banter is humorous and the heat between them scorching as this story doesn’t disappoint.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This one was actually good. I'm not saying that because I didn't expect it to be. The author has been pretty consistent to try to tie a believable story line with romance and feelings. What I mean is the toss every underworld terminology in a blender and spit it out - it was still good. The Bratva is Russian NOT Scotland.
Adam has earned the nickname the Mad Scot from his deeds. His father is lost how to get him to calm down. He's sent to the US to marry into a rival family and bring them into the fold. Lisa is the young stepmother who answers the door and he decides she's the one he will be marrying since the wording was vague. He instantly falls for her and transforms from wild to protective. It's a quick little story that makes you feel good. You can forget he's supposed to be bratva and think Mob. I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Adam has earned the nickname the Mad Scot from his deeds. His father is lost how to get him to calm down. He's sent to the US to marry into a rival family and bring them into the fold. Lisa is the young stepmother who answers the door and he decides she's the one he will be marrying since the wording was vague. He instantly falls for her and transforms from wild to protective. It's a quick little story that makes you feel good. You can forget he's supposed to be bratva and think Mob. I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 13, 2026
Light on plot, heavy on spice
This is a fun little read that is way sweeter than I expected it to be. Sure the MMC is a bit unhinged to the rest of the world, but he is devoted to the FMC. It’s not just insta-love, it’s insta-everything!
The spice is heavy, which is to be expected and the eggplant jewellery is a fun feature. To get the full breeding kink experience, make sure you clink on the link for the bonus chapter (requires newsletter signup), as that extra bit of story is needed to really round it out.
There were some continuity issues in the storyline, but while they did cause some ‘huh?’ moments, they didn’t impact what little there was of the plot.
If you’re looking for a quick, fun insta story, with a heavy dose of obsession and spice, this one is for you.
Full disclosure: I was given an ARC of the book, however this review is my own honest opinion.
June 15, 2026
Friends to lovers is my least favourite trope, followed a close second to reverse age-gap. But I can happily say that Her Bratva Protector by Imani Jay has jumped up to one of my most favourite books, even being a reverse age-gap book! Lisa Venn’s late, deadbeat husband left her and her 20 year old daughter one last “gift, a marriage contract with the Bratva. Lisa was going to fight it, she would not let anyone touch her daughter, never! Adam Maksimov, the Mad Scotsman, whose family is the Bratva, who decided it was time for Adam to settle down. Adam is to take the 20 year old as his bride, and Adam agreed, that was until he took one look at Lisa, and he was done for. Yes, he would marry a Venn, and settle the contract, but it would not be the young Venn, it would be Lisa Venn, the mother. Nothing would stop him for making Lisa his. This is the perfect Instalove story!!!!
June 15, 2026
Her Bratva Protector was a quick, intense, and satisfying read with plenty of heat and heart. The story moves at a fast pace, keeping the action and romance flowing without feeling rushed. The protective Bratva hero was possessive, devoted, and willing to do whatever it took to keep the woman he loved safe, while the heroine brought strength and emotion to the story.
The chemistry between them was undeniable, delivering plenty of steamy moments balanced with genuine feelings and connection. If you're looking for a short mafia romance with danger, passion, and a protective alpha hero, this is an enjoyable read that won't take long to finish. Perfect for readers who love their Bratva romances with equal parts suspense and romance.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The chemistry between them was undeniable, delivering plenty of steamy moments balanced with genuine feelings and connection. If you're looking for a short mafia romance with danger, passion, and a protective alpha hero, this is an enjoyable read that won't take long to finish. Perfect for readers who love their Bratva romances with equal parts suspense and romance.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 19, 2026
She may not be the intended bride but she is his dream bride
Her BRATVA Protector by Imani Jay is part of the multi-author A Halo City Protectors Romance series. This story starts at a quick pace and keeps that going throughout. The story is fun, sexy, sweet, OTT, and very engaging. Lisa Venn finds herself in a situation after her husband dies that she never expected and not sure what to do about. Adam Maksimov works for the Bratva and finds himself following the orders of his bosses. Together these two are wonderful as they battle it out and also their feelings. For him it was instant, as she opened the door he knocked on. For her there was definitely attraction but she had been married to a man she did not love before and was not about to do that again. So what do they do now?
Her BRATVA Protector by Imani Jay is part of the multi-author A Halo City Protectors Romance series. This story starts at a quick pace and keeps that going throughout. The story is fun, sexy, sweet, OTT, and very engaging. Lisa Venn finds herself in a situation after her husband dies that she never expected and not sure what to do about. Adam Maksimov works for the Bratva and finds himself following the orders of his bosses. Together these two are wonderful as they battle it out and also their feelings. For him it was instant, as she opened the door he knocked on. For her there was definitely attraction but she had been married to a man she did not love before and was not about to do that again. So what do they do now?
June 16, 2026
Lisa Venn has done everything she can to survive and make sure her daughter is cared for. Her husband was not the best, and when he left her, he left one last parting gift. A marriage contract with the bravta, but not for her, for their daughter. They are now coming to the door to collect. Adam Maksimov is nuts and has no boundaries. When he's sent to fulfill a contract, well, he's about to tweak it a little. Because the woman who answers the door will be his. However, when he finds out what happened to her and her daughter, all his protective instincts will come to the front. Lisa doesn't know what to think of Adam, and while she's trying to get her wits about her, he's changing her life. These two have chemistry, no doubt, but what happens when the contract is signed?
Review of advance copy
This book took me out of my book funk. No games, no snarky heroine and no fade to black scenes. Adam knows what he wants immediately, he makes it clear he wants Lisa, NOT her 20 year old step-daughter, Jasmine. Lisa is shocked and Adam shows her exactly who he is—What a man! What a man! What a Mighty Good Man! As for Lisa, her relationship with her (step)daughter Jasmine is beautiful and the two of them together made me smile and laugh on more than one occasion.
This is a short story and it's insta-lust, love and if you can roll with that, you will enjoy this story. Happy Reading!
ARC
This is a short story and it's insta-lust, love and if you can roll with that, you will enjoy this story. Happy Reading!
ARC
Review of advance copy
Adam is a wild card his family is desperately trying to control. So, they send him to complete a contract, but when he arrives, he's blown away by the woman who opens the door. Now, Adam is ready to settle down, get married, and have lots of children. The only problem is, the woman he wants isn't sure she wants him too. Lisa doesn't have a great history with men, and everything about Adam screams run away, danger. But Lisa is inexplicably drawn to the Scott's man, and before she knows what's happening, Adam has taken over her home, her life, and her heart.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
This is an insta steamy short that starts with a bit of humor as Adam’s dad and uncle wonder how to rein him in. He’s acting a bit wild to put it mildly and they need him to stop. The solution? Marry him off to fulfill a contract. Only with Adam things seldom seem to go according to any plan but his own. He’s supposed to marry the daughter, he chooses the step mom Lisa. Recently widowed Lisa is trying to keep everything going, it’s not easy but she’s trying. Told from dual POV, mainly from Lisa’s end. Waffled a bit as to how to rate it, rated it four for what it was, high heat short.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book is part of a multi author series called A Halo City Protectors Romance. Tropes: widow, marriage contract, reverse age gap, Irish Mafia, and unhinged MMC. Lisa's late husband was a Mafia boss who had made a marriage contract for his 20 year old daughter. Adam is unhinged and sent to America to fulfill the contract when he meets Lisa decides he wants her instead. This is fast paced read with some spice. I love the relationship Lisa has with her stepdaughter. Adam is OTT and I was here for it. Give me a fictional morally grey MMC and I'm a happy reader.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 13, 2026
Loved, loved, LOVED the instant connection between Adam & Lisa - one of my favourite tropes by a country mile. Their relationship develops fast but is very sweet. However, I would note that the juxtaposition between chapter one where Adam is portrayed as really dangerous and violent is strikingly different from how he’s portrayed in basically all of his other interactions with the main characters.
Still would recommend this book as Imani Jay’s works are amongst my favourites every time and her 🌶️ scenes are phenomenal!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Still would recommend this book as Imani Jay’s works are amongst my favourites every time and her 🌶️ scenes are phenomenal!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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