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His Ruthless Deception: A Grumpy Sunshine Mafia Romance
Kolya
As the Kozlov Bratva’s head enforcer, my mission was simple. Find the $20 million in diamonds stolen from the Pakhan fifteen years ago, now in the possession of a kindergarten teacher named Chloe.
Standard surveillance.
But nothing about this assignment has been standard since I stumbled into Parent-Teacher night and got pulled into the orbit of a five-foot-nothing ray of sunshine.
Chloe is nothing like I expected. She’s pure innocence. The light to my darkness. A good girl just waiting for someone like me to unravel that control she clings to.
And completely incapable of hiding twenty million in stolen merchandise.
But there’s some connection. A reason our rivals are suddenly hunting her.
Now my mission has changed.
Protect Chloe.
And make her mine.
Even if it costs me everything.
Chloe
Since surviving that deadly night fifteen years ago, my entire life has been about control.
Planning, organizing, creating a safe, predictable world where nothing bad can happen.
Until Koyla walks into my classroom.
He’s a man who carries violence like a second skin. Intense. Brutal. Magnetic. The kind of forbidden temptation I only ever allowed myself to read about in secret.
I should be terrified of him. Instead, I’m drawn to his darkness like it was made for me. One taste and I crave more.
He’s vowed to protect me from the bratva hunting me.
But it’s my heart that may not survive.
*His Ruthless Deception is a full-length mafia romance novel with no cheating and a guaranteed HEA.
More about His Ruthless
- Grumpy sunshine
- Strong heroine
- Betrayal
- Secrets & lies
- Forced proximity
- Alpha male
- Morally gray MMC
- Touch Her and Die
- Has an HEA
- Can be read as a standalone
As the Kozlov Bratva’s head enforcer, my mission was simple. Find the $20 million in diamonds stolen from the Pakhan fifteen years ago, now in the possession of a kindergarten teacher named Chloe.
Standard surveillance.
But nothing about this assignment has been standard since I stumbled into Parent-Teacher night and got pulled into the orbit of a five-foot-nothing ray of sunshine.
Chloe is nothing like I expected. She’s pure innocence. The light to my darkness. A good girl just waiting for someone like me to unravel that control she clings to.
And completely incapable of hiding twenty million in stolen merchandise.
But there’s some connection. A reason our rivals are suddenly hunting her.
Now my mission has changed.
Protect Chloe.
And make her mine.
Even if it costs me everything.
Chloe
Since surviving that deadly night fifteen years ago, my entire life has been about control.
Planning, organizing, creating a safe, predictable world where nothing bad can happen.
Until Koyla walks into my classroom.
He’s a man who carries violence like a second skin. Intense. Brutal. Magnetic. The kind of forbidden temptation I only ever allowed myself to read about in secret.
I should be terrified of him. Instead, I’m drawn to his darkness like it was made for me. One taste and I crave more.
He’s vowed to protect me from the bratva hunting me.
But it’s my heart that may not survive.
*His Ruthless Deception is a full-length mafia romance novel with no cheating and a guaranteed HEA.
More about His Ruthless
- Grumpy sunshine
- Strong heroine
- Betrayal
- Secrets & lies
- Forced proximity
- Alpha male
- Morally gray MMC
- Touch Her and Die
- Has an HEA
- Can be read as a standalone
331 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 30, 2026
20 people are currently reading
45 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
January 30, 2026
I enjoyed this mafia romance.
Looking forward to book three. I need answers from the epilogue!!!
Looking forward to book three. I need answers from the epilogue!!!
February 1, 2026
Thanks to the author and roseharbor publishing for letting me review this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This was my first ever Russian mafia romance and boy, did it deliver!
Kolya is an enforcer in the Kozlov Bratva who has been tasked with looking for the mafia's lost diamonds worth $20m. He's taken aback when he encounters the person they are supposed to be with: Chloe, a kindergarten teacher who is a ray of sunshine much to Kolya's dismay. He knows that his allegiance is with Roman, the head of the Bratva, but he somehow begins to question everything he has learned and believed all his life. He must figure out all the answers while making sure that whoever is after their lives doesn't succeed.
I'm a total sucker for mafia romance and this was such a treat for me, lol. I was absolutely hooked from the beginning.
I really liked how the dynamic between the two MCs was built up layer by layer, intertwining with the complexity of Chloe's character. The subtle flirting from Kolya, Chloe giggling and kicking her feet, and being willfully oblivious to all the red flags while tension hangs in the air - not just from their undeniable chemistry, but because of what's at stake and how many people want it. This had all the elements to keep a reader hooked.
And the spicy scenes were just... let's just say the enforcer made his claim and took what was his. No notes. Although, after a point, was it just... too much? Like, I really wanted them to get on with finding the diamonds or figuring out who wanted them dead and why, but they just kept jumping bones with no care whatsoever, lol. I guess the intention was to establish the fact that Kolya's enforcer instincts didn't stand a chance when love threatened to consume him. He just let it.
Chloe's past, and the way Kolya deciphers it by breaking it down one tear at a time, was written so well. While the focus was on whatever Chloe went through that night, it also subtly planted Easter eggs for what's to come next.
I really think that Chloe had the best character development in this. While Kolya overcame his belief and restrictions, and was all hot with calling her "mine" and everything, Chloe realizing how strong she is to survive everything that happened to her, fighting her demons, and completely surrendering to the guy she should be scared of was incredible. The narrative was spot on in showing her realization that she has never felt safer than when she was enclosed in his arms, even while people were actively trying to kill her.
One main gripe I had with this was the place where the diamonds were hidden. It seemed like a very convenient choice, and it was low-key frustrating that the characters had no clue whatsoever. Especially people like Kolya and his fellow enforcers from the Bratva. Like, bro, you must have seen such things a million times and still you act surprised!
Though I was fully satisfied with the happy ending, the cliffhanger caught me blindsided. I'm totally understating it when I say I cannot wait to find out what happens next.
All this to say, this was a very quick read. All I remember was starting and I was done in a few hours, lol. It does have dark themes, so please use your discernment. Overall, an absolute 4/5 read.
This was my first ever Russian mafia romance and boy, did it deliver!
Kolya is an enforcer in the Kozlov Bratva who has been tasked with looking for the mafia's lost diamonds worth $20m. He's taken aback when he encounters the person they are supposed to be with: Chloe, a kindergarten teacher who is a ray of sunshine much to Kolya's dismay. He knows that his allegiance is with Roman, the head of the Bratva, but he somehow begins to question everything he has learned and believed all his life. He must figure out all the answers while making sure that whoever is after their lives doesn't succeed.
I'm a total sucker for mafia romance and this was such a treat for me, lol. I was absolutely hooked from the beginning.
I really liked how the dynamic between the two MCs was built up layer by layer, intertwining with the complexity of Chloe's character. The subtle flirting from Kolya, Chloe giggling and kicking her feet, and being willfully oblivious to all the red flags while tension hangs in the air - not just from their undeniable chemistry, but because of what's at stake and how many people want it. This had all the elements to keep a reader hooked.
And the spicy scenes were just... let's just say the enforcer made his claim and took what was his. No notes. Although, after a point, was it just... too much? Like, I really wanted them to get on with finding the diamonds or figuring out who wanted them dead and why, but they just kept jumping bones with no care whatsoever, lol. I guess the intention was to establish the fact that Kolya's enforcer instincts didn't stand a chance when love threatened to consume him. He just let it.
Chloe's past, and the way Kolya deciphers it by breaking it down one tear at a time, was written so well. While the focus was on whatever Chloe went through that night, it also subtly planted Easter eggs for what's to come next.
I really think that Chloe had the best character development in this. While Kolya overcame his belief and restrictions, and was all hot with calling her "mine" and everything, Chloe realizing how strong she is to survive everything that happened to her, fighting her demons, and completely surrendering to the guy she should be scared of was incredible. The narrative was spot on in showing her realization that she has never felt safer than when she was enclosed in his arms, even while people were actively trying to kill her.
One main gripe I had with this was the place where the diamonds were hidden. It seemed like a very convenient choice, and it was low-key frustrating that the characters had no clue whatsoever. Especially people like Kolya and his fellow enforcers from the Bratva. Like, bro, you must have seen such things a million times and still you act surprised!
Though I was fully satisfied with the happy ending, the cliffhanger caught me blindsided. I'm totally understating it when I say I cannot wait to find out what happens next.
All this to say, this was a very quick read. All I remember was starting and I was done in a few hours, lol. It does have dark themes, so please use your discernment. Overall, an absolute 4/5 read.
January 30, 2026
Kolya is the enforcer for the Kozlov Bratva. Whatever his Pakhan wants done, he does it. He doesn’t asked questions. The Pakhan has sent him on another mission. He is tasked with finding his stolen diamonds that are worth twenty million dollars. He is told a kindergarten teacher named Chloe has them. He starts watching her to know her routine. When he goes through her house and classroom, he comes up empty. The only way he can find answers is to befriend her or maybe even seduce. He starts to care for her and realizes she might not have them or does not know about them. When people come after her, he thinks she might be linked to them. Now, all he wants to do is protect her.
Chloe is a sweet, cheerful and positive person. She loves her job. She has worked so hard to have the life she has now. All she wants to do is forget her terrible past. When she meets Kolya, she smitten. She does not understand why she’s drawn to him since he is the complete opposite of her. She knows he is dangerous but decides to risk it. Pretty soon she finds herself in dangerous situations each time she is with him. She starts to suspect he may not be who he said. However, he is the only who can keep her safe. She has no choice but to go with him. What will happen when she finds out he was playing her since the beginning?
Ava Zane made me feel so bad for Chloe. She suffers through so much. Her story is really sad. Connecting with Kolya made her open up. On the other hand, he became so obsessed with her by time he might be wrong, there was no going back. Also, Konya is always trying to prove himself to everyone. I’m happy he finally chose himself when he wanted to be with Chloe.
They had amazing chemistry and their scenes were so hot! This was an action packed emotional rollercoaster. It kept me on the edge of my seat. It is filled with drama, secrets, danger, heat, suspense, and shocking twists.
Chloe is a sweet, cheerful and positive person. She loves her job. She has worked so hard to have the life she has now. All she wants to do is forget her terrible past. When she meets Kolya, she smitten. She does not understand why she’s drawn to him since he is the complete opposite of her. She knows he is dangerous but decides to risk it. Pretty soon she finds herself in dangerous situations each time she is with him. She starts to suspect he may not be who he said. However, he is the only who can keep her safe. She has no choice but to go with him. What will happen when she finds out he was playing her since the beginning?
Ava Zane made me feel so bad for Chloe. She suffers through so much. Her story is really sad. Connecting with Kolya made her open up. On the other hand, he became so obsessed with her by time he might be wrong, there was no going back. Also, Konya is always trying to prove himself to everyone. I’m happy he finally chose himself when he wanted to be with Chloe.
They had amazing chemistry and their scenes were so hot! This was an action packed emotional rollercoaster. It kept me on the edge of my seat. It is filled with drama, secrets, danger, heat, suspense, and shocking twists.
January 30, 2026
ARC Review: His Ruthless Deception Book 2 in the Bratva Brotherhood series
This book has all the tropes you need to enjoy a good mafia book! Ruthless, grumpy bratva enforcer Koyla meets his match when he is assigned to ☀️Chloe the kindergarten teacher who is all sunshine and glitter sparkles!🌈
“She’s everything I’m not. She creates. I destroy. She nurtures. I defile. She is light. I am nothing but shadow and violence.”
Most mafia books don’t usually have a lot of humor in them but I found I was giggling in the first few chapters at how Koyla was so out of place in Chloe’s world of color. Seeing him in her kindergarten class room folding himself into a tiny chair meant for a 5 year old .. yea I could picture it. 😆
This story has a pretty quick pace and lots of action and suspense. Instalust gives the time frame but it works with the plot. Their chemistry was amazing! I love how Chloe really came into her own. I am a sucker for some dom/sub action and Ava didn’t disappoint! Koyla and his dirty talk and praise 🥵 yes, please!
Koyla realizing that love doesn’t make you weak (how he was trained to believe) but makes you stronger, more fierce and determined was a great character arc moment. Chloe facing her past childhood trauma but coming out stronger for it was such a great part in the book. She’s sweet but also fierce.
| There was Before Chloe, and now there is After Chloe. Chloe makes me more of a man, and I’ll never return to being less. |
I enjoyed this book and thought it set up the next one nicely!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tropes:
Grumpy x Sunshine
Strong and sweet FMC
Betrayal & Secrets
Hidden identity
Forced proximity
Morally gray MMC
Touch Her and D!e
“Crawl”
“Good girl”
Hand necklace
Thank you to RoseHarbor Publishing and Ava Zane for the eARC. All opinions are my own.
This book has all the tropes you need to enjoy a good mafia book! Ruthless, grumpy bratva enforcer Koyla meets his match when he is assigned to ☀️Chloe the kindergarten teacher who is all sunshine and glitter sparkles!🌈
“She’s everything I’m not. She creates. I destroy. She nurtures. I defile. She is light. I am nothing but shadow and violence.”
Most mafia books don’t usually have a lot of humor in them but I found I was giggling in the first few chapters at how Koyla was so out of place in Chloe’s world of color. Seeing him in her kindergarten class room folding himself into a tiny chair meant for a 5 year old .. yea I could picture it. 😆
This story has a pretty quick pace and lots of action and suspense. Instalust gives the time frame but it works with the plot. Their chemistry was amazing! I love how Chloe really came into her own. I am a sucker for some dom/sub action and Ava didn’t disappoint! Koyla and his dirty talk and praise 🥵 yes, please!
Koyla realizing that love doesn’t make you weak (how he was trained to believe) but makes you stronger, more fierce and determined was a great character arc moment. Chloe facing her past childhood trauma but coming out stronger for it was such a great part in the book. She’s sweet but also fierce.
| There was Before Chloe, and now there is After Chloe. Chloe makes me more of a man, and I’ll never return to being less. |
I enjoyed this book and thought it set up the next one nicely!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tropes:
Grumpy x Sunshine
Strong and sweet FMC
Betrayal & Secrets
Hidden identity
Forced proximity
Morally gray MMC
Touch Her and D!e
“Crawl”
“Good girl”
Hand necklace
Thank you to RoseHarbor Publishing and Ava Zane for the eARC. All opinions are my own.
January 30, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ — 4 Stars
Okay so… this book?? It had me hooked from chapter one. Like I opened it thinking I’d skim a little and suddenly I’m halfway in, dehydrated, emotionally chaotic, and whispering “oh my god” every few pages 😭🔥 The TENSION? The STAKES? The OBSESSION?? I was gone.
Kolya and Chloe absolutely carried me through this.
Chloe is the sweetest, sunniest kindergarten teacher who just wants to live her soft little life… and then there’s Kolya.... walking danger, cold precision, moral ambiguity in a tailored suit, and somehow still the man who watches her with this feral, possessive intensity that had me blushing 😭🫣🔥
Their dynamic is everything: soft vs. sharp, innocence vs. violence, sunshine vs. storm cloud. The way he circles her like he’s one wrong breath away from claiming her? The way she both fears and flutters under his attention?? I was kicking my feet, covering my face, doing all the dramatic things 😩💗
The atmosphere stays dark and tense, the emotions messy and unhinged in the BEST way. It’s the type of story that lingers — the kind that makes you pause and just *stare at a wall* like… what did I just read?? (In the most delicious way) 🤭💀
My only tiny gripe is that a few parts dragged just a bit, but honestly? Didn’t even matter. The payoff, the chemistry, the danger, the slow unraveling of their connection… ugh. Chef’s kiss.
I need book 3 IMMEDIATELY because that ending?? NO. I refuse to wait 😭🔥📚
Okay so… this book?? It had me hooked from chapter one. Like I opened it thinking I’d skim a little and suddenly I’m halfway in, dehydrated, emotionally chaotic, and whispering “oh my god” every few pages 😭🔥 The TENSION? The STAKES? The OBSESSION?? I was gone.
Kolya and Chloe absolutely carried me through this.
Chloe is the sweetest, sunniest kindergarten teacher who just wants to live her soft little life… and then there’s Kolya.... walking danger, cold precision, moral ambiguity in a tailored suit, and somehow still the man who watches her with this feral, possessive intensity that had me blushing 😭🫣🔥
Their dynamic is everything: soft vs. sharp, innocence vs. violence, sunshine vs. storm cloud. The way he circles her like he’s one wrong breath away from claiming her? The way she both fears and flutters under his attention?? I was kicking my feet, covering my face, doing all the dramatic things 😩💗
The atmosphere stays dark and tense, the emotions messy and unhinged in the BEST way. It’s the type of story that lingers — the kind that makes you pause and just *stare at a wall* like… what did I just read?? (In the most delicious way) 🤭💀
My only tiny gripe is that a few parts dragged just a bit, but honestly? Didn’t even matter. The payoff, the chemistry, the danger, the slow unraveling of their connection… ugh. Chef’s kiss.
I need book 3 IMMEDIATELY because that ending?? NO. I refuse to wait 😭🔥📚
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I have been in a mafia state of mind lately, and I’m so glad to have gotten this ARC because I ate 👏🏼it 👏🏼up 👏🏼
Guys. This book is funny. Like, really funny. Usually mafia-rom characters are either super intense or naive to the point that you want to high five them in the face, but Kolya’s rugged focus paired with Chloe’s ridiculously sweet, Ms. Rachel-vibes had me cackling at my kindle.
What I liked:
🖤Kolya’s internal musings. Every time this man took in the mountain of positivity that Chloe brought to every situation, you couldn’t help but laugh. Seeing him try to work out how someone can be so… happy was endlessly amusing.
🍎Chloe’s “sunshine on legs.” I have to hand it to the author, because I’m not sure how she was able to conjure up some of Chloe’s reactions/responses. She wrote her character with such clarity that the picture took hold in my mind almost immediately.
This is book 2 in the Bratva Brotherhood series, but can absolutely stand on its own. I had not read book 1 and it didn’t feel like I was missing anything vital. If you’re looking for a mafia romance with levity, spice, and plot - this one’s for you.
Thank you RoseHarbor Publishing and Ava Zane for the eARC!
Guys. This book is funny. Like, really funny. Usually mafia-rom characters are either super intense or naive to the point that you want to high five them in the face, but Kolya’s rugged focus paired with Chloe’s ridiculously sweet, Ms. Rachel-vibes had me cackling at my kindle.
What I liked:
🖤Kolya’s internal musings. Every time this man took in the mountain of positivity that Chloe brought to every situation, you couldn’t help but laugh. Seeing him try to work out how someone can be so… happy was endlessly amusing.
🍎Chloe’s “sunshine on legs.” I have to hand it to the author, because I’m not sure how she was able to conjure up some of Chloe’s reactions/responses. She wrote her character with such clarity that the picture took hold in my mind almost immediately.
This is book 2 in the Bratva Brotherhood series, but can absolutely stand on its own. I had not read book 1 and it didn’t feel like I was missing anything vital. If you’re looking for a mafia romance with levity, spice, and plot - this one’s for you.
Thank you RoseHarbor Publishing and Ava Zane for the eARC!
Review of advance copy received from Author
His Ruthless Deception thrives on contrast—light versus darkness, creation versus destruction—and that tension is perfectly captured in lines like, “She creates. I destroy. She nurtures. I defile. She is light. I am nothing but shadow and violence.” The hero is unapologetically brutal and morally gray, while the heroine brings strength and depth that challenge him at every turn.
The spice is intense and unapologetic, laced with a dangerous edge that fits seamlessly with the mafia setting. One of the most striking moments comes with the chilling admission: “To corrupt her. Make her more like me. Dirty her. Break her. Force her to show obedience.” It’s dark, provocative, and perfectly encapsulates the twisted pull between the characters.
What truly sets this story apart is how it balances relentless action with emotional stakes. It never slows down, never plays it safe, and delivers a romance that feels raw, risky, and addictive. If you’re looking for a Bratva romance packed with adventure, tension, and spice—and one that feels fresh in a crowded genre—this one is absolutely worth the read.
The spice is intense and unapologetic, laced with a dangerous edge that fits seamlessly with the mafia setting. One of the most striking moments comes with the chilling admission: “To corrupt her. Make her more like me. Dirty her. Break her. Force her to show obedience.” It’s dark, provocative, and perfectly encapsulates the twisted pull between the characters.
What truly sets this story apart is how it balances relentless action with emotional stakes. It never slows down, never plays it safe, and delivers a romance that feels raw, risky, and addictive. If you’re looking for a Bratva romance packed with adventure, tension, and spice—and one that feels fresh in a crowded genre—this one is absolutely worth the read.
Review of advance copy received from Author
His Ruthless Deception is a gripping, fast-paced mafia romance that delivers intensity, obsession, and emotional depth in one addictive read, and it further cements Ava Zane as one of my favorite authors. Kolya, the Kozlov Bratva’s ruthless enforcer, has lived his life believing love is weakness, until Chloe, a sunshine-bright kindergarten teacher shaped by past trauma, turns his world upside down. Their grumpy/sunshine dynamic is electric, their chemistry scorching, and the contrast between his darkness and her quiet strength makes their connection feel powerful and inevitable. As Kolya learns that love is not a vulnerability but something worth fighting and dying for, Chloe finally finds safety and trust in a world that never truly stops hunting them. Packed with nonstop action, forced proximity, morally gray intensity, and unapologetic spice, this standalone mafia romance is dark, emotional, and impossible to put down.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
His mission as head enforcer is to target the kindergarten teacher and retrieve the $20M in diamonds. In doing so, he is enamored with her and finds himself obsessed with her. He must choose: the code he’s lived by for 30 years, or the love he feels for her.
She is caught off guard by his presence. She thinks she knows him, until she realizes their meetings were based on lies. But she finds her controlled, meticulous environment is a shield to her inner strength. She is hiding her own secret past.
This dark mafia romance is a mission muddied by unexpected feelings…and a whole lot of open door steamy spice. There is obsession, control, restraint and uninhibited surrender.
I enjoyed the twisting story of Kolya and Chloe finding their way through their crazy circumstances. This is book 2 of the Bratva Brotherhood series but I read this as a standalone interconnected book. Available on Jan 30!
Please note TW prior to reading.
She is caught off guard by his presence. She thinks she knows him, until she realizes their meetings were based on lies. But she finds her controlled, meticulous environment is a shield to her inner strength. She is hiding her own secret past.
This dark mafia romance is a mission muddied by unexpected feelings…and a whole lot of open door steamy spice. There is obsession, control, restraint and uninhibited surrender.
I enjoyed the twisting story of Kolya and Chloe finding their way through their crazy circumstances. This is book 2 of the Bratva Brotherhood series but I read this as a standalone interconnected book. Available on Jan 30!
Please note TW prior to reading.
Review of advance copy received from Author
His Ruthless Deception delivers exactly what you expect from a dark, possessive romance with strong sunshine-grumpy energy and major “touch her and die” vibes. Ava Zane does a great job balancing a cold, ruthless hero with a heroine who brings warmth and emotional grounding to the story.
The chemistry builds steadily, with a spice level around 3/5—hot without overpowering the plot. While some moments felt familiar within the genre, the pacing kept me engaged and the protective dynamic was satisfying if you’re a fan of morally gray heroes.
Overall, this is a solid read for readers who enjoy intense romance, possessive MMCs, and a lighter-hearted FMC who softens the edges. A fun, quick read that fans of the trope will appreciate.
The chemistry builds steadily, with a spice level around 3/5—hot without overpowering the plot. While some moments felt familiar within the genre, the pacing kept me engaged and the protective dynamic was satisfying if you’re a fan of morally gray heroes.
Overall, this is a solid read for readers who enjoy intense romance, possessive MMCs, and a lighter-hearted FMC who softens the edges. A fun, quick read that fans of the trope will appreciate.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
His Ruthless Deception by Ava Zane 🖤
(Book 2 in the Bratva Brotherhood series)
Dark meets light and I ATE 👏 THIS 👏 UP.
We’re following Kolya—a morally black Bratva enforcer on a mission to recover a “package”… and Chloe, our sunshine, rainbows-and-butterflies FMC who seems blissfully unaware 👀
Or is she? Because trust me… there’s way more to Chloe than meets the eye.
✨ Expect:
🖤 “Good girl” energy
🔪 Touch her and die vibes
🖤 Morally BLACK MMC
🌈 Perky, sunshine FMC
⛓️ BDSM (spicy but not overwhelming)
This book was such a fun, addictive ride and I’m officially seated for whatever comes next in this series 🔥
📅 Release Day: 30 Jan
Grab your copy as soon as it drops—why are you still here?! 👀📖💥
(Book 2 in the Bratva Brotherhood series)
Dark meets light and I ATE 👏 THIS 👏 UP.
We’re following Kolya—a morally black Bratva enforcer on a mission to recover a “package”… and Chloe, our sunshine, rainbows-and-butterflies FMC who seems blissfully unaware 👀
Or is she? Because trust me… there’s way more to Chloe than meets the eye.
✨ Expect:
🖤 “Good girl” energy
🔪 Touch her and die vibes
🖤 Morally BLACK MMC
🌈 Perky, sunshine FMC
⛓️ BDSM (spicy but not overwhelming)
This book was such a fun, addictive ride and I’m officially seated for whatever comes next in this series 🔥
📅 Release Day: 30 Jan
Grab your copy as soon as it drops—why are you still here?! 👀📖💥
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
It did not take me very long of starting this book to laugh. The image of Kolya stuffing himself into a desk chair in Chloe's classroom was funny. Kolya has such a stoic attitude but yet the more time he spent around Chloe, her sunny personality rubbed off on him.
It was funny to see Kolya letting his guard down a bit and even crack a smile. Talk about heat! The chemistry between these two is sizzling. I really enjoyed the spice level. Yet the storyline equally matches the heat.
I found the pacing to move at a good, quick, steady pace. There did not seem to be any time where I lost interest or felt like the story slowed down too much. While this book can be read as a standalone, I do plan to go back and check out book one.
It was funny to see Kolya letting his guard down a bit and even crack a smile. Talk about heat! The chemistry between these two is sizzling. I really enjoyed the spice level. Yet the storyline equally matches the heat.
I found the pacing to move at a good, quick, steady pace. There did not seem to be any time where I lost interest or felt like the story slowed down too much. While this book can be read as a standalone, I do plan to go back and check out book one.
January 30, 2026
This mafia romance was a solid and enjoyable read with a great grumpy x sunshine dynamic.
I loved the contrast between the cold, intimidating male lead and the warm, optimistic heroine.
Their chemistry carried through the whole story. The romance developed at a good pace and the mafia elements added enough tension to keep things interesting.
Loved how Kolya was protective, and Chloe was such a lovable character who might seem weak at first but showed that she’s one of the strongest characters and a true survivor.
Overall, solid mafia romance with great character dynamics, emotional depth, and enough angst to keep you hooked.
Highly recommended if you love grumpy heroes who slowly fall for a sunshine heroine.
#arcreview
I loved the contrast between the cold, intimidating male lead and the warm, optimistic heroine.
Their chemistry carried through the whole story. The romance developed at a good pace and the mafia elements added enough tension to keep things interesting.
Loved how Kolya was protective, and Chloe was such a lovable character who might seem weak at first but showed that she’s one of the strongest characters and a true survivor.
Overall, solid mafia romance with great character dynamics, emotional depth, and enough angst to keep you hooked.
Highly recommended if you love grumpy heroes who slowly fall for a sunshine heroine.
#arcreview
January 30, 2026
ARC Review, thx Ava Zane
This is the second book in the Bratva Brotherhood series.
The story tells of how Kolya, an enforcer, and Chloe, a kindergarten teacher, met and developed a relationship. As their professions suggest, two oppersite worlds collide.
The storyline is also woven into the overarching plot.
The beginning is a bit slow, although the banter between Kolya and Chloe provided some comfort. It became more exciting and engaging towards the end.
There's an HEA, but it remains intriguing to see what happens next.
Overall, I enjoyed the first book slightly more, but this story is definitely worth reading. The next book will tell Kirill and Jordan's story.
HEA, no cheating or sharing
⭐️ 4/5
🌶 3.5/5
This is the second book in the Bratva Brotherhood series.
The story tells of how Kolya, an enforcer, and Chloe, a kindergarten teacher, met and developed a relationship. As their professions suggest, two oppersite worlds collide.
The storyline is also woven into the overarching plot.
The beginning is a bit slow, although the banter between Kolya and Chloe provided some comfort. It became more exciting and engaging towards the end.
There's an HEA, but it remains intriguing to see what happens next.
Overall, I enjoyed the first book slightly more, but this story is definitely worth reading. The next book will tell Kirill and Jordan's story.
HEA, no cheating or sharing
⭐️ 4/5
🌶 3.5/5
February 1, 2026
This is book two in the Bratva Brotherhood series. My issue with the first book was that the emotional and business side wasn't even out. There was a lot of telling how the characters felt not really showing. This book the author was able to convey the emotional connection between the two characters. Kolya is all business until he walks into Chloe's classroom on Parents night and is barreled over. Chloe is sunshine in human form and Kolya is firmly in her orbit. The hunt is on for the missing diamonds. The twist of who Chloe really is. The group of strong alpha Bratva men who unofficially "adopt" Chloe into the family knowing that Kolya has laid claim. Kolya's nickname for her is spot on. She's light and fire. I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 31, 2026
Absolutely loved this book, it caught me completely off guard from the very start.
Kolya is dark, dangerous, and unapologetically ruthless ,the kind of morally gray MMC who doesn’t hesitate, especially when it comes to protecting what’s his. And Chloe is soft, kind, and stronger than she realizes… the perfect contrast to his violence.
I loved how the story balances darkness with emotion. The chemistry is strong, the pacing is tight, and the connection between them feels truly earned.
🖤 Tropes:
• Mafia Romance
• Morally Gray MMC
• Grumpy × Sunshine
• Forced Proximity
• Secrets & Lies
• Betrayal
• Touch Her and Die
Kolya is dark, dangerous, and unapologetically ruthless ,the kind of morally gray MMC who doesn’t hesitate, especially when it comes to protecting what’s his. And Chloe is soft, kind, and stronger than she realizes… the perfect contrast to his violence.
I loved how the story balances darkness with emotion. The chemistry is strong, the pacing is tight, and the connection between them feels truly earned.
🖤 Tropes:
• Mafia Romance
• Morally Gray MMC
• Grumpy × Sunshine
• Forced Proximity
• Secrets & Lies
• Betrayal
• Touch Her and Die
February 1, 2026
ARC Review 🖤🔥🌍💎
4.5⭐
Tropes:
😡🌝Grumpy x sunshine
👱♀️💪Strong heroine
😱Betrayal
🤐Secrets & lies
💦Forced proximity
🧔Alpha male
👤Morally gray MMC
💀Touch Her and Die
😍Has an HEA
Chloe is a cheerful and caring girl who loves being a teacher. She has a traumatic and painful past. She's being used as bait, and the Bratva Koslov is after her.
Kolya is deliciously addictive. He had a mission and ended up betraying the Pakhan. A "simple" kindergarten teacher brought him down, and anyone who dares to harm her will end up dead. 💀
I recommend you delve into this entertaining story. What begins as a lie evolves into a forced intimacy, protection, and a connection that threatens to destroy them both.
4.5⭐
Tropes:
😡🌝Grumpy x sunshine
👱♀️💪Strong heroine
😱Betrayal
🤐Secrets & lies
💦Forced proximity
🧔Alpha male
👤Morally gray MMC
💀Touch Her and Die
😍Has an HEA
Chloe is a cheerful and caring girl who loves being a teacher. She has a traumatic and painful past. She's being used as bait, and the Bratva Koslov is after her.
Kolya is deliciously addictive. He had a mission and ended up betraying the Pakhan. A "simple" kindergarten teacher brought him down, and anyone who dares to harm her will end up dead. 💀
I recommend you delve into this entertaining story. What begins as a lie evolves into a forced intimacy, protection, and a connection that threatens to destroy them both.
February 2, 2026
Loved the second book and I can’t wait for the 3rd. I’m really liking this series. Koyla the enforcer is sent on a
Mission to find the missing $20k missing diamonds. Which end up linked to Chloe a kindergarten teacher full of sunshine just trying to cover up her trauma with positivity. The darkness for Koyla and sunshine from Chloe collide in this story filled with twist and turns and survival together. Will they succeed in finding these missing diamonds or has Koyla met his fate deceiving Roman?
Thank you so much to Ava Zane and her team for allowing me to be apart of the ARC team to receive this story. I can’t wait for the rest!
Mission to find the missing $20k missing diamonds. Which end up linked to Chloe a kindergarten teacher full of sunshine just trying to cover up her trauma with positivity. The darkness for Koyla and sunshine from Chloe collide in this story filled with twist and turns and survival together. Will they succeed in finding these missing diamonds or has Koyla met his fate deceiving Roman?
Thank you so much to Ava Zane and her team for allowing me to be apart of the ARC team to receive this story. I can’t wait for the rest!
January 30, 2026
ARC REVIEW: This is a good Mafia romance. It has mystery and intrigue as to who is doing all of this and why. Kolya goes through a lot in his mind because he has never felt that way about a person before, but he falls first and hard. He protects her through the whole story. Chloe is a kindergarten teacher with a sunny personality who find Kolya very interesting but also is weary of him at the same time. They go through a lot together in this book so check TW first as it is a dark Mafia romance. But I highly recommend it. it is action packed through most of it.
January 31, 2026
His Ruthless Deception
The kindergarten teacher and the killer. What's not to love with that combination? Ava Zane takes it to the next level in this story of déception. 20 million in diamonds lost, Chloe gets twisted within the Kozlov radar. Koyla is the ultimate alpha male, but denies himself feelings or attachment. Chloe with her radiant personality and greater inner strength finally frees herself with Koyla. Definitely recommend this book. Second book from this author and really enjoyed it.
The kindergarten teacher and the killer. What's not to love with that combination? Ava Zane takes it to the next level in this story of déception. 20 million in diamonds lost, Chloe gets twisted within the Kozlov radar. Koyla is the ultimate alpha male, but denies himself feelings or attachment. Chloe with her radiant personality and greater inner strength finally frees herself with Koyla. Definitely recommend this book. Second book from this author and really enjoyed it.
February 1, 2026
Thank you Ava Zane and Rose Harbor Publishing for the chance to ARC read His Rithless Deception. 🖤
The second book in the Bratva Brotherhood series picks up right where the first left off and wastes no time pulling you deeper into the chaos. We get peak grumpy x sunshine, sharp banter and the elite “touch her and you die” vibes we all live for.
This was such a fun, fast-paced read with just the right amount of spice to keep things sizzling. I flew through it and am officially seated for whatever comes next in this series 🔥
The second book in the Bratva Brotherhood series picks up right where the first left off and wastes no time pulling you deeper into the chaos. We get peak grumpy x sunshine, sharp banter and the elite “touch her and you die” vibes we all live for.
This was such a fun, fast-paced read with just the right amount of spice to keep things sizzling. I flew through it and am officially seated for whatever comes next in this series 🔥
February 3, 2026
ARC REVIEW
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
His Ruthless Deception by Ava Zane is a dark, addictive Bratva romance that leans hard into obsession and betrayal. The MMC is ruthless, controlling, and morally gray in the best (and messiest) way, while the FMC is tied to a historic event that keeps the tension high. The chemistry is intense, the power dynamics are dramatic, and the twists keep coming. Definitely a must read for fans of dark romance who like their love stories sharp-edged, toxic, and impossible to put down. A perfect addition to the series.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
His Ruthless Deception by Ava Zane is a dark, addictive Bratva romance that leans hard into obsession and betrayal. The MMC is ruthless, controlling, and morally gray in the best (and messiest) way, while the FMC is tied to a historic event that keeps the tension high. The chemistry is intense, the power dynamics are dramatic, and the twists keep coming. Definitely a must read for fans of dark romance who like their love stories sharp-edged, toxic, and impossible to put down. A perfect addition to the series.
January 20, 2026
Dark, Dangerous, and Impossible to Put Down
This one pulled me in fast. Kolya is ruthless, protective, and all-consuming, while Chloe is sunshine wrapped in control and quiet strength. Their chemistry is intense, forbidden, and perfectly unbalanced in the best way. I loved how danger, tenderness, and obsession collide here, it’s dark romance done right, with high stakes, a powerful protector, and a love that feels inevitable.
This one pulled me in fast. Kolya is ruthless, protective, and all-consuming, while Chloe is sunshine wrapped in control and quiet strength. Their chemistry is intense, forbidden, and perfectly unbalanced in the best way. I loved how danger, tenderness, and obsession collide here, it’s dark romance done right, with high stakes, a powerful protector, and a love that feels inevitable.
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
ARC REVIEW: I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of His Ruthless Deception and book 2 of Ava Zane’s Bratva Brotherhood Series did not disappoint!
Chloe and Kolya’s story had everything we love in a mafia book- dark, morally grey MMC, OTT and possessive hero, grumpy/sunshine, secret identities and intrigue and of course spice that will have you reaching for your favourite glass of wine!
I devoured this book in one sitting- such an easy read! I can’t wait for book 3
🌶️🌶️🌶️
ARC REVIEW: I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of His Ruthless Deception and book 2 of Ava Zane’s Bratva Brotherhood Series did not disappoint!
Chloe and Kolya’s story had everything we love in a mafia book- dark, morally grey MMC, OTT and possessive hero, grumpy/sunshine, secret identities and intrigue and of course spice that will have you reaching for your favourite glass of wine!
I devoured this book in one sitting- such an easy read! I can’t wait for book 3
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review
I love love love it.. Wow Kolya is so unhinged overly possessive and hottest MMC. Chloe is so opposite being happy sunshine always smiling FMC. Their contrast is so perfectly blended and their sexual tension is is unnerving.
I love the action suspense the twist and the continuing story that will unveil all tje characters.
Kudos to the 🌶🌶🌶 love..The basement chapter is so hot..
More of this please.
I love love love it.. Wow Kolya is so unhinged overly possessive and hottest MMC. Chloe is so opposite being happy sunshine always smiling FMC. Their contrast is so perfectly blended and their sexual tension is is unnerving.
I love the action suspense the twist and the continuing story that will unveil all tje characters.
Kudos to the 🌶🌶🌶 love..The basement chapter is so hot..
More of this please.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 29, 2026
4⭐️
This book was action-packed with laugh-out-loud moments. Chloe's character shines with her kindergarten teacher vibe taking on a violent mafia mobster. The forced proximity between her and the mafia's brutal enforcer was perfection. Loved how Koyla's brutal and morally gray nature paired with Chloe's strength created a captivating dynamic. Everything I look forward in when reading a mafia romance
This book was action-packed with laugh-out-loud moments. Chloe's character shines with her kindergarten teacher vibe taking on a violent mafia mobster. The forced proximity between her and the mafia's brutal enforcer was perfection. Loved how Koyla's brutal and morally gray nature paired with Chloe's strength created a captivating dynamic. Everything I look forward in when reading a mafia romance
Review of advance copy received from Author
His Ruthless Deception is a thrilling, rapid-fire, page-turner!
I enjoyed the intriguing dynamic between Chloe - the kindergarten teacher who is all sunshine and rainbows - and Kolya - the Bratva enforcer who is all darkness and violence. Their synergy felt effortless and profound. Natural and inevitable.
*Please read trigger and content warnings.*
I received an advance copy. This is my honest and voluntary review.
I enjoyed the intriguing dynamic between Chloe - the kindergarten teacher who is all sunshine and rainbows - and Kolya - the Bratva enforcer who is all darkness and violence. Their synergy felt effortless and profound. Natural and inevitable.
*Please read trigger and content warnings.*
I received an advance copy. This is my honest and voluntary review.
January 28, 2026
ARC REVIEW: His Ruthless Deception is book 2 of Ava Zane’s Bratva Brotherhood Series. This was definitely on the lighter side of mafia romances with zero cheating and no O/W O/M drama which I appreciated. There was however, plenty of spice and a plot that had you trying to connect the dots throughout the story until the very end. This was a super easy read and I’m excited for book 3!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
ARC REVIEW 🩵
Spice lvl 3/5
Definitely ppl into bratva, dark spicy romance can go for it.
Absolutely loved this the book and can't wait for the third book to drop!!
The ending has me intrigued. Kolya and Chloe are absolutely perfect couple for this.
Loved whole rainbow vibe of fmc and dead eye personality of mmc.🤌🏽🤌🏽
Spice lvl 3/5
Definitely ppl into bratva, dark spicy romance can go for it.
Absolutely loved this the book and can't wait for the third book to drop!!
The ending has me intrigued. Kolya and Chloe are absolutely perfect couple for this.
Loved whole rainbow vibe of fmc and dead eye personality of mmc.🤌🏽🤌🏽
January 29, 2026
This book was so enticing. Loved how Kolya was protective of Chloe since the moment they met , it’s a perfect mixture of action, romance, suspense and emotions. They are a perfect example of grumpy & sunshine 😭 the basement scene was so hottt 🤭 also enjoyed the banter between Kolya and his mafia partners. Recommend to readers interested in dark romance ❤️🔥
Thank you for the ARC! 🫶🏻
Thank you for the ARC! 🫶🏻
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