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Bratva Brotherhood #2
His Ruthless Deception
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
350 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 30, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
March 1, 2026
This is the second book in the Bratva Brotherhood series, and while the couples change, the storyline overlaps and intertwines in a way I actually love. It gives me Darkverse vibes in that sense, so I definitely recommend reading these in order to get the full experience.
If you’re looking for a fast-paced mafia romance with a dangerous enforcer who can throw a punch and still be “soft only for her,” this is absolutely the book for you.
And when I say fast-paced, I mean the story, the action, and the romance. So yes, brace yourself for insta-love. I know that’s not everyone’s favorite (mine included), but sometimes it’s done in a way that just works. So much is happening that it genuinely feels like more time has passed, so the connection doesn’t feel rushed.
This is good girl/bad boy on crack. Our girl is a kindergarten teacher who doesn’t even curse. She’s rainbows and sunshine… but she’s also got bark and bite, and her mafia man absolutely helps bring that out of her.
Kolya is supposed to have one mission: find the missing diamonds. That’s it. Simple. But he gets distracted in the most predictable way possible and becomes completely obsessed with his target Chloe, like any properly unhinged, possessive man would. He decides he’s going to claim her, protect her, and toss around the word “mine” every chance he gets. There may or may not be a tracking device involved 👀👀, which personally feels like my love language at this point.
This series is action-packed, and I really appreciate that. It keeps everything exciting. There’s danger, shootouts, running for your life, and in this one especially, a lot of fighting. And I love a man who can fight. LAWDDD
We’re also getting deeper into the overarching plot here. There’s something brewing under the surface, and you can feel it. I HAVE MY THEORIES. Pieces are moving behind the scenes, and with the way this book ended, it’s very clear that things are about to explode. I hit that final page and just sat there like… wait a minute.
If possessive and obsessive is your thing, look no further. These mafia men claim their women and do not let go. And unfortunately for me, that’s exactly my type. This is such a fun, bingeable mafia series perfect to kick back with and just enjoy the chaos.
If you’re looking for a fast-paced mafia romance with a dangerous enforcer who can throw a punch and still be “soft only for her,” this is absolutely the book for you.
And when I say fast-paced, I mean the story, the action, and the romance. So yes, brace yourself for insta-love. I know that’s not everyone’s favorite (mine included), but sometimes it’s done in a way that just works. So much is happening that it genuinely feels like more time has passed, so the connection doesn’t feel rushed.
This is good girl/bad boy on crack. Our girl is a kindergarten teacher who doesn’t even curse. She’s rainbows and sunshine… but she’s also got bark and bite, and her mafia man absolutely helps bring that out of her.
Kolya is supposed to have one mission: find the missing diamonds. That’s it. Simple. But he gets distracted in the most predictable way possible and becomes completely obsessed with his target Chloe, like any properly unhinged, possessive man would. He decides he’s going to claim her, protect her, and toss around the word “mine” every chance he gets. There may or may not be a tracking device involved 👀👀, which personally feels like my love language at this point.
This series is action-packed, and I really appreciate that. It keeps everything exciting. There’s danger, shootouts, running for your life, and in this one especially, a lot of fighting. And I love a man who can fight. LAWDDD
We’re also getting deeper into the overarching plot here. There’s something brewing under the surface, and you can feel it. I HAVE MY THEORIES. Pieces are moving behind the scenes, and with the way this book ended, it’s very clear that things are about to explode. I hit that final page and just sat there like… wait a minute.
If possessive and obsessive is your thing, look no further. These mafia men claim their women and do not let go. And unfortunately for me, that’s exactly my type. This is such a fun, bingeable mafia series perfect to kick back with and just enjoy the chaos.
March 22, 2026
I was ovulating but this was in fact a vibe 3.75
May 15, 2026
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review. Also my tags may have spoilers in them so be forewarned before checking out full review.
Book Evaluation:
Plot: 🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️
World Building:🌎🌎🌎🌎
Cover:📔📔📔
Hero: 🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻
Heroine:🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️
Intimacy Level: 🔥🔥🔥
Relationship Building: 💒💒💒💒
Heart & Feels:💞💞💞💞
Witty/Banter/Reaction of Laughter: 😂😂
Page Turner Level:📖📖📖.5
Ending:🧧🧧🧧🧧
Overall View: ✨✨✨✨
First Impressions
His Ruthless Deception is the second book in the Bratva Brotherhood series and I was really curious about Kolya's book after seeing his presence in the first book. And I had really enjoyed this author's writing style and was interested to see how his book would happen. I did go into the book pretty blind for the most part and this book was highly refreshing. It was different from the first book and I love that it wasn't the typical mafia romance either.
First Line
With one final flicker, the last security camera switches to a still of the empty hallway.
The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Kolya
The Heroine: Chloe
Summary
Kolya is the head enforcer for the Kozlov Bratva and he has been ordered to find priceless diamons which is in the hands of a innocent teacher in a remote small town. So Kolya heads to Chloe, posing as a father of one of her students, and he knows that Chloe isn't some mastermind or would know anything about the diamonds or what happened on the island. But as he gets close to Chloe in his search for the dimaonds, he discovers something deeper than anything than he expected. But can he keep the love he has found or will he have to choose her over his family?
What I Loved
This book had so much HEART! and So quickly I was so easily caught up in this story and how this couple captivates from the beginning. If you love a good opposites attract, this might be one of the best I have seen. It has a dynamic of badass anti hero who kills for a living and falls head over heels in love with soft and kind kindergarten teacher who is bubbly and sees the good in people. They couldn't be more different, yet they form a powerful connection to each other. Chloe knows that Kolya is dangerous but she also knows she feels something deep for him that she can't explain and is willing to fight to keep what she has with him. Both characters had such depth to them and seeing them work their way to a HEA was satisfying. There is a great level of suspense and mystery I appreciated while also moving the serial plot forward a bit. And seeing the head of the Bratva treat the women so well in this series makes me swoon ....I wouldn't mind seeing him have a book lol
What I Struggled With
The pacing was off a bit at times, and it wasn't exactly a story that wow's you completely but a satisfying fun diversion. It could have used a better editor though and some more polish on it.
Overall View
His Ruthless Deception is a endearing read that brings together the light and the dark and blends in the two worlds in a clever and thrilling format...
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Dark Romance
Character Types: Softer FMC, Feminine Leading Heroine, Anti Hero, Mafia, Teacher
Themes: Danger/Suspense, Small Town Setting
Tropes: Secret Identity, Grump Sunshine, Opposites Attract
Book Perspective
Duo POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
Plot Conflict over Relationship
If you like these authors, I recommend This Book
Cora Reilley
Michelle Heard
Emilia Rossi
Recommendation For Reading Order
Yes-Serial plot
Steam/Spice Explanations
Steamin' up the room -the sexual content is more explicit in the language and tone, heavier amount of sexual scenes.
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 22, 2026
«She's warm, soft and sweet. And most importantly, mine».
OMG! Hace mucho que no volvía a caer por la mafia y me encantó este libro de Ava.
Es cortito, nos presenta un drama en donde ella estuvo en el momento equivocado y, por ende, es sospechosa de algo mucho más grande de lo que ella ignora 🫢
Los personajes me encantaron, aunque claramente me daba rabia el inicio como se acerca a ella. Pero después lo compensa totalmente.
OMG! Hace mucho que no volvía a caer por la mafia y me encantó este libro de Ava.
Es cortito, nos presenta un drama en donde ella estuvo en el momento equivocado y, por ende, es sospechosa de algo mucho más grande de lo que ella ignora 🫢
Los personajes me encantaron, aunque claramente me daba rabia el inicio como se acerca a ella. Pero después lo compensa totalmente.
Did Not Finish
April 12, 2026I just don't get along with this author's writing or stories. the characters never have believable chemistry.
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 😭🔥📚
February 11, 2026
New author for me, and I didn’t read the first book, which was probably a mistake, as there’s a larger plot that overlaps throughout the series.
First of all, I truly loved the writing style, especially Koyla’s chapters. His morally grey mindset was portrayed so well in his inner monologues… and don’t we all love a dark heart finding the light?
✅ Grumpy/sunshine
✅ Pathan’s enforcer / kindergarten teacher
✅ Kidnapped by the villain
✅ Dom/sub dynamic / spanking
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
✅ No virgin
✅ Always on the run
❌ No cheating / no sharing
It’s basically non-stop action and balance with spice but not too much. As soon as things start to settle down, they have to run again.
I loved Chloe’s feisty “sunshine on legs” personality and Koyla’s cold demeanor.
I wasn’t a fan of the dom/sub dynamic during their spicy scenes, but that’s personal taste. It sometimes feels like every dark and dangerous mafia MC is a bit one-dimensional and has to dominate their partner.
He previously paid for s3x, with no real mention of a past lover or partner. She wasn’t a virgin either, but of course had only encountered losers.
I will probably read book one and the following books. Any one betting on Gio not being dead?? If the villain is actually not the villain then this series is even better!!
First of all, I truly loved the writing style, especially Koyla’s chapters. His morally grey mindset was portrayed so well in his inner monologues… and don’t we all love a dark heart finding the light?
✅ Grumpy/sunshine
✅ Pathan’s enforcer / kindergarten teacher
✅ Kidnapped by the villain
✅ Dom/sub dynamic / spanking
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
✅ No virgin
✅ Always on the run
❌ No cheating / no sharing
It’s basically non-stop action and balance with spice but not too much. As soon as things start to settle down, they have to run again.
I loved Chloe’s feisty “sunshine on legs” personality and Koyla’s cold demeanor.
I wasn’t a fan of the dom/sub dynamic during their spicy scenes, but that’s personal taste. It sometimes feels like every dark and dangerous mafia MC is a bit one-dimensional and has to dominate their partner.
He previously paid for s3x, with no real mention of a past lover or partner. She wasn’t a virgin either, but of course had only encountered losers.
I will probably read book one and the following books. Any one betting on Gio not being dead?? If the villain is actually not the villain then this series is even better!!
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!
February 5, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
His Ruthless Deception, Brava Brotherhood #2 by Ava Zane delivers a delicious contrast between darkness and light that kept me turning pages.
Kolya, a ruthless Russian mafia enforcer is sent on a mission to recover long lost diamonds worth millions but he never expects a warm, sunshine bright elementary school teacher.
Watching him infiltrate Chloe’s world was equal parts tense and tender. The way he’s completely undone by her kindness, her love for her students, and the normalcy of her life made the romance felt wholesome. Chloe truly feels like light in his darkness, and their chemistry burns like a strong flame, uncontainable and impossible to extinguish 🥵 ❤️🔥from their very first interactions you get hooked with this couple.
The story blends danger, deception, and desire as rival forces close in, secrets are revealed, and the truth about the diamonds finally comes to light.
I loved how protective and possessive Kolya becomes once his mission becomes personal. The emotional payoff and the ending left me eager to see what happens next 🔑
If you love mafia romance, grumpy morally gray heroes, sunshine heroines, and high stakes tension 🔥 this one is absolutely worth the read 📚 ♥️
His Ruthless Deception, Brava Brotherhood #2 by Ava Zane delivers a delicious contrast between darkness and light that kept me turning pages.
Kolya, a ruthless Russian mafia enforcer is sent on a mission to recover long lost diamonds worth millions but he never expects a warm, sunshine bright elementary school teacher.
Watching him infiltrate Chloe’s world was equal parts tense and tender. The way he’s completely undone by her kindness, her love for her students, and the normalcy of her life made the romance felt wholesome. Chloe truly feels like light in his darkness, and their chemistry burns like a strong flame, uncontainable and impossible to extinguish 🥵 ❤️🔥from their very first interactions you get hooked with this couple.
The story blends danger, deception, and desire as rival forces close in, secrets are revealed, and the truth about the diamonds finally comes to light.
I loved how protective and possessive Kolya becomes once his mission becomes personal. The emotional payoff and the ending left me eager to see what happens next 🔑
If you love mafia romance, grumpy morally gray heroes, sunshine heroines, and high stakes tension 🔥 this one is absolutely worth the read 📚 ♥️
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.
March 19, 2026
Going deeper into the Bratva world and I loved seeing another brother fall just as hard. The stakes feel higher, the danger closer, and the emotions hit even stronger. Watching a ruthless man slowly unravel because of her is always my favorite thing to read. The tension, the loyalty between the brothers, and the way love soften even the most dangerous men made this one hard to put down. More action, more spice, and that signature Bratva intensity.
Tropes: Mafia romance, he falls first, protective alpha, found family (Bratva brotherhood) and touch her and d!3.
Spanish: Este libro nos mete aun mas en la hermandad Bratva y me encanto ver a otro de los hermanos caer igual de fuerte. Aquí las apuestas son mas altas, el peligro mas cercano y las emociones todavía mas intensas. Nada me gusta mas que ver a un hombre frio y peligroso perder el control por ella. La lealtad entre los hermanos y la intensidad de este romance lo hacen muy adictivo. Tropos: Mafia romance, el se enamora primero, protector alfa, Hermandad/ familia encontrada.
Tropes: Mafia romance, he falls first, protective alpha, found family (Bratva brotherhood) and touch her and d!3.
Spanish: Este libro nos mete aun mas en la hermandad Bratva y me encanto ver a otro de los hermanos caer igual de fuerte. Aquí las apuestas son mas altas, el peligro mas cercano y las emociones todavía mas intensas. Nada me gusta mas que ver a un hombre frio y peligroso perder el control por ella. La lealtad entre los hermanos y la intensidad de este romance lo hacen muy adictivo. Tropos: Mafia romance, el se enamora primero, protector alfa, Hermandad/ familia encontrada.
March 27, 2026
His Ruthless Deception is a gripping addition to the Bratva Brotherhood series. Ava Zane delivers a high stakes, emotional story featuring Kolya, an enforcer for the Kozlov Bratva, and Chloe, a kindergarten teacher with a heart of gold.
The contrast between them is stark. Kolya is unhinged and dangerous, while Chloe is cheerful and resilient. When Kolya is sent to track down missing diamonds, he finds Chloe instead and becomes instantly possessive. What I loved most was the emotional depth. Chloe’s past is heavy, and the way Kolya helps her navigate that trauma was written with such care.
Watching Chloe transform from a sweet teacher into a woman who recognizes her own power while surrendering to the man she should fear was beautiful. The tension is constant as they stay on the run from people trying to kill them. It is a story of secrets, betrayal, and finding safety in the most unlikely person.
"She’s everything I’m not. She creates. I destroy. She nurtures. I defile. She is light. I am nothing but shadow and violence."
The contrast between them is stark. Kolya is unhinged and dangerous, while Chloe is cheerful and resilient. When Kolya is sent to track down missing diamonds, he finds Chloe instead and becomes instantly possessive. What I loved most was the emotional depth. Chloe’s past is heavy, and the way Kolya helps her navigate that trauma was written with such care.
Watching Chloe transform from a sweet teacher into a woman who recognizes her own power while surrendering to the man she should fear was beautiful. The tension is constant as they stay on the run from people trying to kill them. It is a story of secrets, betrayal, and finding safety in the most unlikely person.
"She’s everything I’m not. She creates. I destroy. She nurtures. I defile. She is light. I am nothing but shadow and violence."
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.
February 8, 2026
Kolya had one job to do. It was to get in, get the diamonds and get out. Chloe is a sweet, happy, way to giddy teacher who loves her students and right away thinks Kolya is hot, mysterious and maybe a bit dangerous.
Kolya inserts himself into Chloe’s life trying to find where she has the diamonds stashed so he can get back to work.
Life had other things in mind. The attraction between the two is undeniable. There’s also danger at every turn and it seems he keeps rescuing her. Are the bad guys out to get him or her? I thought the book was well written and enjoyed reading it. At the beginning, I didn’t really
Care for Chloe much but she grew on me and ended up liking her character. The book had suspense, heat and a good story
Kolya inserts himself into Chloe’s life trying to find where she has the diamonds stashed so he can get back to work.
Life had other things in mind. The attraction between the two is undeniable. There’s also danger at every turn and it seems he keeps rescuing her. Are the bad guys out to get him or her? I thought the book was well written and enjoyed reading it. At the beginning, I didn’t really
Care for Chloe much but she grew on me and ended up liking her character. The book had suspense, heat and a good story
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.
May 15, 2026
Picking up right where Book 1 left off, we meet Koyla and Chloe, and their instant connection mixed with the danger surrounding her, definitely made this a fast-paced read.
The setup does feel a little repetitive though. Once again, it’s the mafia MMC finding an FMC caught in their world, and somehow one kiss is enough for these men to completely fall at their women’s feet. It’s a little overdone… but still kind of cute.
I don’t think I’ll continue with the series, but I have to admit the overarching plot is getting more interesting and definitely kept me on my toes. This was definitely better than Book 1 — 3 stars!
The setup does feel a little repetitive though. Once again, it’s the mafia MMC finding an FMC caught in their world, and somehow one kiss is enough for these men to completely fall at their women’s feet. It’s a little overdone… but still kind of cute.
I don’t think I’ll continue with the series, but I have to admit the overarching plot is getting more interesting and definitely kept me on my toes. This was definitely better than Book 1 — 3 stars!
May 18, 2026
That was a very mean epilogue. It changed the whole framework of this series, and I need to know how it all plays out. I loved Chloe and Kolya together. She's sunshine with a backbone of steel. She's sweet and kind, but not in an overly done sort of way. Kolya's all ruthless darkness with a dominant edge, and watching Chloe dismantle all that, hard as he worked to deny it, was great. This story was built on deception, as the title suggests, with Kolya luring Chloe into trusting him in order to find the diamonds Roman sent him after. I couldn't look away, and I was scared of what would happen when all was revealed. In the end, I really enjoyed this. These two were perfect for one another.
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.
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