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Ruthless Protector: A Forced Proximity Mafia Romance
I was sent to watch her. Now I’m sleeping down the hall… and daring anyone to touch what’s mine.
Dmitri Kozlov doesn’t give assignments. He gives verdicts.
Mine is move into Daria Kozlov’s apartment, track her movements, and prove she’s the leak before the feds freeze our accounts.
If she’s guilty, she disappears. Even if she’s family.
I expect designer clothes and a practiced smile.
I find a piano teacher in a threadbare cardigan, a fridge that’s almost empty, and a five-year-old who drags me into a tea party like I’m not built for violence.
That first night, I clear the apartment.
A hidden camera is wedged in her daughter’s bedroom.
At that point, I stop watching Daria—and start hunting the man who put it there. Her ex-husband.
Daria flinches at blocked numbers. She lies like it keeps her alive. And when I catch the bruises she hides under sleeves, something in me goes cold and final.
I came here to catch a traitor.
Instead I’m standing between a mother, her little girl… and the man who’s been terrorizing them for years.
If he comes for either of them, there won’t be negotiations.
There will be a body.
This is Book Three in a series of interconnected characters within the same mafia world. Each novel can be read as a STANDALONE and ends with an HEA. Each one ends on a soft cliffhanger, setting up the next book.
Dmitri Kozlov doesn’t give assignments. He gives verdicts.
Mine is move into Daria Kozlov’s apartment, track her movements, and prove she’s the leak before the feds freeze our accounts.
If she’s guilty, she disappears. Even if she’s family.
I expect designer clothes and a practiced smile.
I find a piano teacher in a threadbare cardigan, a fridge that’s almost empty, and a five-year-old who drags me into a tea party like I’m not built for violence.
That first night, I clear the apartment.
A hidden camera is wedged in her daughter’s bedroom.
At that point, I stop watching Daria—and start hunting the man who put it there. Her ex-husband.
Daria flinches at blocked numbers. She lies like it keeps her alive. And when I catch the bruises she hides under sleeves, something in me goes cold and final.
I came here to catch a traitor.
Instead I’m standing between a mother, her little girl… and the man who’s been terrorizing them for years.
If he comes for either of them, there won’t be negotiations.
There will be a body.
This is Book Three in a series of interconnected characters within the same mafia world. Each novel can be read as a STANDALONE and ends with an HEA. Each one ends on a soft cliffhanger, setting up the next book.
366 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 18, 2026
24 people are currently reading
20 people want to read
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Review of advance copy received from Author
If you love your romance with danger at the door and devotion that burns cold and absolute, Ruthless Protector by Clara Dunn will own you from the first page.
Pyotr is not sent on missions—he’s handed verdicts. When the Kozlov Pakhan orders him to move into Daria Kozlov’s apartment and prove she’s the leak threatening the family’s empire, the message is clear: if she’s guilty, she disappears. Blood doesn’t matter. Mercy isn’t part of the job.
But what he finds behind her door isn’t a spoiled traitor in designer heels.
It’s a worn cardigan.
An almost-empty fridge.
A gentle piano teacher trying to hold herself together.
And a five-year-old who tugs a hardened enforcer into a tea party like he isn’t built for violence.
And then he finds the camera.
Hidden. In her daughter’s bedroom.
That’s the moment everything shifts.
What starts as surveillance turns into something far more personal. Pyotr stops watching Daria and starts hunting. The tension in this book is razor sharp—every blocked phone call, every bruise hidden under long sleeves, every lie Daria tells because it’s the only way she’s survived this long. You feel the weight of her fear. You feel the cold precision of Pyotr’s rage when he realizes someone has been terrorizing her for years.
And once his loyalty shifts? It is done.
The protective instinct in this story is everything. Pyotr sleeping down the hall. Clearing rooms before bedtime. Standing between a mother and her child and the monster who thinks he still owns them. The possessiveness isn’t flashy—it’s steady, lethal, and utterly unwavering.
The last few chapters had my heart racing. I genuinely didn’t know how it would end, and I was holding my breath waiting for the reckoning. The payoff is intense, emotional, and deeply satisfying—while still leaving us with a soft cliffhanger that makes the wait for the next book deliciously painful.
If you love:
Ruthless heroes who fall quietly but completely
Single mom strength
Found family inside a dangerous empire
Protective MMCs who don’t negotiate when it comes to her safety
Edge-of-your-seat finales
This one belongs at the top of your TBR.
Because sometimes the most dangerous man in the room isn’t the threat.
He’s the one sleeping down the hall.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Pyotr is not sent on missions—he’s handed verdicts. When the Kozlov Pakhan orders him to move into Daria Kozlov’s apartment and prove she’s the leak threatening the family’s empire, the message is clear: if she’s guilty, she disappears. Blood doesn’t matter. Mercy isn’t part of the job.
But what he finds behind her door isn’t a spoiled traitor in designer heels.
It’s a worn cardigan.
An almost-empty fridge.
A gentle piano teacher trying to hold herself together.
And a five-year-old who tugs a hardened enforcer into a tea party like he isn’t built for violence.
And then he finds the camera.
Hidden. In her daughter’s bedroom.
That’s the moment everything shifts.
What starts as surveillance turns into something far more personal. Pyotr stops watching Daria and starts hunting. The tension in this book is razor sharp—every blocked phone call, every bruise hidden under long sleeves, every lie Daria tells because it’s the only way she’s survived this long. You feel the weight of her fear. You feel the cold precision of Pyotr’s rage when he realizes someone has been terrorizing her for years.
And once his loyalty shifts? It is done.
The protective instinct in this story is everything. Pyotr sleeping down the hall. Clearing rooms before bedtime. Standing between a mother and her child and the monster who thinks he still owns them. The possessiveness isn’t flashy—it’s steady, lethal, and utterly unwavering.
The last few chapters had my heart racing. I genuinely didn’t know how it would end, and I was holding my breath waiting for the reckoning. The payoff is intense, emotional, and deeply satisfying—while still leaving us with a soft cliffhanger that makes the wait for the next book deliciously painful.
If you love:
Ruthless heroes who fall quietly but completely
Single mom strength
Found family inside a dangerous empire
Protective MMCs who don’t negotiate when it comes to her safety
Edge-of-your-seat finales
This one belongs at the top of your TBR.
Because sometimes the most dangerous man in the room isn’t the threat.
He’s the one sleeping down the hall.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Pyotr works for the Kozlov Bratva directly under the pakhan. When it seems like someone is leaking information to the feds, he is sent to watch over the suspect. This is no ordinary suspect, she also happens to be the pakhan’s cousin. Family or not, his instructions are clear. If she’s guilty, he makes her disappear, end of story. He expects to find a woman of privilege who’s fake and wears expensive clothing and has an expensive lifestyle. Instead, he meets a woman who is scared of her own shadow. She’s a piano teacher and has a sweet little five-year-old daughter. The longer he gets to know them, the quicker he assesses that she is not a suspect, but someone on the run. He is determined to protect her from whoever is after her and her daughter.
Daria Koslov has been running for years. She knows she’s suspected of being a traitor. She’s scared of her cousin, but she’s scared of someone else more. She doesn’t know who to trust. The only person that matters to her is her daughter. So she stays quiet to protect her. She teaches piano lessons in order to make money. She tries to keep composure when she receives calls from a blocked number. She hides her fear and her bruises. She doesn’t want any questions she will not be able to answer. However when Pyotr realizes that she’s innocent, he demands the truth in order to protect her. Will Daria tell him everything?
Clara Dunn had me on the edge of my seat throughout the book. I felt so bad for Daria. Every time that phone rang, you could sense her fear. The only person that matters in her life is her daughter. Even her attraction to Pyotr, terrified her. I felt bad for him too. He was conflicted between doing his duty and protecting her. He was attracted to her from the minute he met her. Their chemistry was amazing. I love how patient he was with her and how sweet he was with her daughter. He became their biggest protector. This was definitely an emotional roller coaster. It is filled with drama, action, danger, heat, sweet moments, and suspense.
Daria Koslov has been running for years. She knows she’s suspected of being a traitor. She’s scared of her cousin, but she’s scared of someone else more. She doesn’t know who to trust. The only person that matters to her is her daughter. So she stays quiet to protect her. She teaches piano lessons in order to make money. She tries to keep composure when she receives calls from a blocked number. She hides her fear and her bruises. She doesn’t want any questions she will not be able to answer. However when Pyotr realizes that she’s innocent, he demands the truth in order to protect her. Will Daria tell him everything?
Clara Dunn had me on the edge of my seat throughout the book. I felt so bad for Daria. Every time that phone rang, you could sense her fear. The only person that matters in her life is her daughter. Even her attraction to Pyotr, terrified her. I felt bad for him too. He was conflicted between doing his duty and protecting her. He was attracted to her from the minute he met her. Their chemistry was amazing. I love how patient he was with her and how sweet he was with her daughter. He became their biggest protector. This was definitely an emotional roller coaster. It is filled with drama, action, danger, heat, sweet moments, and suspense.
Review of advance copy
I LOVED THIS BOOK! The story was central around Daria Kozlov, the 29-year-old cousin of Dimitri, the Koszlov bratva family Pakhan. Daria was a divorced, single mother to Kira, an adorable and inquisitive five-year-old. They lived an impoverished life, with Daria barely making enough to get by. What her family didn’t know was that Daria was being abused by her ex-husband. Dimitri suspected Daria of leaking information to the feds, so he sent his man Pyotr Federov to live with her and investigate her life to determine if she was guilty or not. Kira was instantly taken with Pyotr, and surprisingly the grumpy, cold man liked Kira back. Pyotr quickly determined Daria may be a target rather than a traitor. Proving Daria’s innocence before the deadline to clear her was a race against time. The forced close proximity changed their relationship and had Dimitri questioning Pyotr’s loyalty.
The plot. O.M.G! So good. The twists had me on the edge of my seat. The overall story was complicated, as were the characters. There was some violence, but that is to be expected from a mafia story. My favorite supporting character was the adorable Kira and her dinosaurs. Where else will you find dinosaurs that have meetings? My favorite quote was when Kira called out to Daria: “Mama? Can I come out now? The dinosaurs finished their meeting, and Mr. Rex said he was sorry for eating the snacks.” My least favorite was Dimitri, and you will know why when you read the book. He was a well-written character. You weren’t supposed to like him. I was surprised at the family drama - this wasn’t the typical family first story - it wasn’t an innocent until proven guilty situation. This really was an excellent book, and I recommend it to readers that enjoy steamy, Russian mafia, enemies to lovers, action/suspense romance stories.`1.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The plot. O.M.G! So good. The twists had me on the edge of my seat. The overall story was complicated, as were the characters. There was some violence, but that is to be expected from a mafia story. My favorite supporting character was the adorable Kira and her dinosaurs. Where else will you find dinosaurs that have meetings? My favorite quote was when Kira called out to Daria: “Mama? Can I come out now? The dinosaurs finished their meeting, and Mr. Rex said he was sorry for eating the snacks.” My least favorite was Dimitri, and you will know why when you read the book. He was a well-written character. You weren’t supposed to like him. I was surprised at the family drama - this wasn’t the typical family first story - it wasn’t an innocent until proven guilty situation. This really was an excellent book, and I recommend it to readers that enjoy steamy, Russian mafia, enemies to lovers, action/suspense romance stories.`1.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Pyotr is tasked with investigating Daria to determine if she’s become a traitor to her family. But the more time he spends watching her, the clearer it becomes – she isn’t a traitor. She’s a victim. Somewhere between the quiet observations and the stolen moments, his role shifts from investigator to protector…and from detached loyalty to something much more dangerous: love. Not just for Daria, but for her fierce, dinosaur-loving daughter, Kira.
Clara has created such a seamless, engaging story that had me hooked from the very beginning. It’s impossible not to fall for Pyotr, Daria, and Kira. The fear Daria carries from year of torment is palpable – you can feel it In every interaction, every hesitation. And the tension between Pyotr and Daria? Just spicy enough to keep the pages turning, but never forced or out of place. It builds in a way that feels earned and so satisfying. The moment Daria finally stands up to her tormentor had me cheering out loud.
Ruthless Protector is captivating from start to finish. The love between Daria and Kira is overwhelmingly sweet – it made my heart ache for everything Daria has endured and swell with pride for the strength she finds along the way. The “touch her and die” energy is STRONG here, and I am absolutely here for all of it. From Kira calling a family meeting with her dinosaurs because the T-Rex kept eating all the snacks, to the intense standoff between Pyotr and the Kozlov fixer, to the quiet, protective tenderness Pyotr shows once he truly sees how afraid Daria has been – I loved every second.
And that ending? The perfect little cliffhanger that makes you immediately ready to dive into the next book.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Clara has created such a seamless, engaging story that had me hooked from the very beginning. It’s impossible not to fall for Pyotr, Daria, and Kira. The fear Daria carries from year of torment is palpable – you can feel it In every interaction, every hesitation. And the tension between Pyotr and Daria? Just spicy enough to keep the pages turning, but never forced or out of place. It builds in a way that feels earned and so satisfying. The moment Daria finally stands up to her tormentor had me cheering out loud.
Ruthless Protector is captivating from start to finish. The love between Daria and Kira is overwhelmingly sweet – it made my heart ache for everything Daria has endured and swell with pride for the strength she finds along the way. The “touch her and die” energy is STRONG here, and I am absolutely here for all of it. From Kira calling a family meeting with her dinosaurs because the T-Rex kept eating all the snacks, to the intense standoff between Pyotr and the Kozlov fixer, to the quiet, protective tenderness Pyotr shows once he truly sees how afraid Daria has been – I loved every second.
And that ending? The perfect little cliffhanger that makes you immediately ready to dive into the next book.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 19, 2026
You might want to make sure to double check that you are buckled up, dangerous men, alpha’s personified, possessive, oh, gorgeous, brooding all the makings of a story consisting with three D’s (dark, delicious, and dirty) 😊. There will be suspense, betrayal, death, darkness, secrets reveled, violence, hope, forgiveness, and maybe even love along the way. Daria is on the run from someone who has been hurting her doing her best to protect herself, her girl, keeping the bruises covered to the outside eye and doing her best to move forward by making herself small unnoticeable but she doesn’t realize she put a target on her back. Pyotr sexy as all get out dangerous, ruthless on a good day, deadly every day has been tasked to investigate her thinking she is sharing family information, but what he finds is a broken women with bruises, trying to keep herself, her child safe but the more he watches the more upset he gets, because he finds her living with second hand furniture, little food, shoes with holes, a camera watching them not the wealth everyone they assume and the more he finds himself wanting to kill whomever is hurting her. The more they are around each other the more he gets to know her and Kiara along with her obsession with dinosaurs, he knows he will do what he needs to do to protect both because he knows Daria isn’t a traitor, she is a victim of physical and mental abuse. She is being manipulated and coerced when she doesn’t do what she is told she is abused but will she trust him enough to believe he is different, will she believe he will keep them safe, will whoever is pulling the strings get what they deserve, and can they have happiness along with a little peace?
Review of advance copy
Pyotr is sent to investigate Daria and from the get go he is invested in her and her small child even tho he is not sure why. He sees bruises on Daria and he automatically feels the need to protector her and hurt who hurt her. His dedication is proven over and over again like in this instance. “I’m going to kill him,” he declares. “Slowly. I want you to know that.” He turns me to face him, and his eyes are blazing with anger. “No one touches you again. No one hurts you again. Not while I’m breathing.”
Kira just captures my heart. She is so innocent and full of childlike wonder. I just love when she taught Pyotr how to braid her hair and how she loves everyone. The way that Pyotr and Kira interact just melts my hearts. "She examines the coin with serious concentration, turning it over in her small hands. “What if I get scared?” “Then you squeeze the coin three times.” He demonstrates, folding her fingers around it. “One, two, three. And then you say, ‘Pyotr is coming.’ Because no matter where I am or what’s happening, if you’re scared, I will find a way to get to you. That’s my promise.”
Having a child involved always pulls at my heart strings. To see the lengths that Daria and eventually Pyotr go to just to protect that little girl and allow her to live an innocent life makes me feel all the emotions as a mother. I just know I would do anything for my kids and we see Daria and Pyotr do just that.
One thing that Clara Dunn did extremely well was hinting at what the next book could be able. Now I am curious about where this series is going to go. Well Done Clara.
Kira just captures my heart. She is so innocent and full of childlike wonder. I just love when she taught Pyotr how to braid her hair and how she loves everyone. The way that Pyotr and Kira interact just melts my hearts. "She examines the coin with serious concentration, turning it over in her small hands. “What if I get scared?” “Then you squeeze the coin three times.” He demonstrates, folding her fingers around it. “One, two, three. And then you say, ‘Pyotr is coming.’ Because no matter where I am or what’s happening, if you’re scared, I will find a way to get to you. That’s my promise.”
Having a child involved always pulls at my heart strings. To see the lengths that Daria and eventually Pyotr go to just to protect that little girl and allow her to live an innocent life makes me feel all the emotions as a mother. I just know I would do anything for my kids and we see Daria and Pyotr do just that.
One thing that Clara Dunn did extremely well was hinting at what the next book could be able. Now I am curious about where this series is going to go. Well Done Clara.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This one had strong moments for me, but overall it didn’t fully hit the way I wanted it to.
Daria and Pyotr are our main couple, and I’ll be honest, I wasn’t a huge fan of Daria. I can’t even pinpoint a solid reason why. She just never completely clicked for me. Pyotr, though? He was it. I loved how quickly his protective instincts locked in. The way he stood up to her family for her, even with very real consequences hanging over him, gave him major points in my book. And Kira? Absolute spitfire. She added so much heart to the story.
Plot-wise, it felt like something was missing. It wasn’t bad, but it never quite reached that next level of intensity. There were moments where I kept waiting for the stakes to escalate in a bigger way. I wanted more tension, more edge, something that would really shake things up.
The spice was a mixed experience. Some scenes felt a little forced, like the timing didn’t quite line up with everything happening around them. But other moments were perfectly executed and genuinely hot. When it worked, it really worked.
As for the ending, I loved seeing them happy and especially seeing Daria in a place where she wasn’t living in fear anymore. That growth was satisfying. The epilogue, though, left me a bit unsure. It felt like it was setting up the next book in a way that might mirror this plot pretty closely, and I’m not sure that’s something I’m eager to revisit.
Overall, it was a good read and I’m glad I gave it a chance. It just didn’t leave me hungry for more of the series.
Ratings:
Characters ⭐⭐⭐
Plot ⭐⭐⭐
Spice ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Ending ⭐⭐⭐
Overall ⭐⭐⭐✨ (3.25)
Daria and Pyotr are our main couple, and I’ll be honest, I wasn’t a huge fan of Daria. I can’t even pinpoint a solid reason why. She just never completely clicked for me. Pyotr, though? He was it. I loved how quickly his protective instincts locked in. The way he stood up to her family for her, even with very real consequences hanging over him, gave him major points in my book. And Kira? Absolute spitfire. She added so much heart to the story.
Plot-wise, it felt like something was missing. It wasn’t bad, but it never quite reached that next level of intensity. There were moments where I kept waiting for the stakes to escalate in a bigger way. I wanted more tension, more edge, something that would really shake things up.
The spice was a mixed experience. Some scenes felt a little forced, like the timing didn’t quite line up with everything happening around them. But other moments were perfectly executed and genuinely hot. When it worked, it really worked.
As for the ending, I loved seeing them happy and especially seeing Daria in a place where she wasn’t living in fear anymore. That growth was satisfying. The epilogue, though, left me a bit unsure. It felt like it was setting up the next book in a way that might mirror this plot pretty closely, and I’m not sure that’s something I’m eager to revisit.
Overall, it was a good read and I’m glad I gave it a chance. It just didn’t leave me hungry for more of the series.
Ratings:
Characters ⭐⭐⭐
Plot ⭐⭐⭐
Spice ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Ending ⭐⭐⭐
Overall ⭐⭐⭐✨ (3.25)
February 21, 2026
I’ve read a few of Clara’s other books in this series. I love how she makes these standalones but intertwines them as well. Clara does a great job at bringing the reader along for a wild ride.
We start with our MMC Pyotr. This man has an alpha protector personality through and through. He’s a man trained on bloodshed and getting the job done by any means. However, we see the teddy bear side of this man in the most unexpected way with a little girl named Kira and her mother, Daria. This man screams you touch or threaten what is mine, and see what happens.
We have our FMC Daria. Just wow, the love and devotion in this woman and what lengths she is willing to go to protect her daughter, Kira. You can easily relate to her and the struggles she goes through while being constantly plagued by her tormentor. It is hard not to feel her storyline; she is truly finding herself again after years of fear. She is willing to do whatever it takes to keep the ones she loves out of harm's way, even if it means sacrificing herself in the process.
This story is a Russian Mafia romance with a found family aspect. Clara does a great job at showing just enough spice to make you want more, but keeps the plot as the focal point. From Kira being the sneaky little love spy by trying to get Daria and Pyotr to see that they were meant to be. To Pyotr and Daria, finding the family and love the thought they didn’t deserve this book will keep you hooked!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
We start with our MMC Pyotr. This man has an alpha protector personality through and through. He’s a man trained on bloodshed and getting the job done by any means. However, we see the teddy bear side of this man in the most unexpected way with a little girl named Kira and her mother, Daria. This man screams you touch or threaten what is mine, and see what happens.
We have our FMC Daria. Just wow, the love and devotion in this woman and what lengths she is willing to go to protect her daughter, Kira. You can easily relate to her and the struggles she goes through while being constantly plagued by her tormentor. It is hard not to feel her storyline; she is truly finding herself again after years of fear. She is willing to do whatever it takes to keep the ones she loves out of harm's way, even if it means sacrificing herself in the process.
This story is a Russian Mafia romance with a found family aspect. Clara does a great job at showing just enough spice to make you want more, but keeps the plot as the focal point. From Kira being the sneaky little love spy by trying to get Daria and Pyotr to see that they were meant to be. To Pyotr and Daria, finding the family and love the thought they didn’t deserve this book will keep you hooked!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I found this ARC in a Facebook group. The author is a new read for me. I have never read Clara Dunn before, but she was a pleasant surprise. This book received 4 stars but overall a very good book. So connected with the heroine in this book. She’s a single mother willing to do what it takes to protect her child. She is a true warrior that is strong and determined. I connect with the heroine in other ways as well.
Now we have the hero Pyotr which I wasn’t sure how to pronounce, lol. No matter this man was sent in on a mission but true to form the mission turns. You know in all of the MC and mafia romances the hero says I will burn the world down for you and it makes my heart melt. Oh he was suppose to be immune to emotions or not supposed to display emotions but Clara Dunn introduced Kira to Pyotr and he never stood a chance. Oh I wished I could still have children after reading about Kira describing the different dinosaurs. But when sh made the glitter disaster at the homeless shelter for Pyotr he was cooked.
I wanted to give the book 5 stars but there was a few mistakes and I really felt like I have read this book before. Just once I would like for it not to be a HEA maybe end on a cliffhanger. The hero was shot, maybe write it so Pyotr would have to struggle back to the land of the living. Just something to not make it s predictable.
Remember this is just my opinion. I will say again that this was overall a good read. I read this book without reading the other books in the series.
Now we have the hero Pyotr which I wasn’t sure how to pronounce, lol. No matter this man was sent in on a mission but true to form the mission turns. You know in all of the MC and mafia romances the hero says I will burn the world down for you and it makes my heart melt. Oh he was suppose to be immune to emotions or not supposed to display emotions but Clara Dunn introduced Kira to Pyotr and he never stood a chance. Oh I wished I could still have children after reading about Kira describing the different dinosaurs. But when sh made the glitter disaster at the homeless shelter for Pyotr he was cooked.
I wanted to give the book 5 stars but there was a few mistakes and I really felt like I have read this book before. Just once I would like for it not to be a HEA maybe end on a cliffhanger. The hero was shot, maybe write it so Pyotr would have to struggle back to the land of the living. Just something to not make it s predictable.
Remember this is just my opinion. I will say again that this was overall a good read. I read this book without reading the other books in the series.
February 14, 2026
This was my first book with this author and I’ll definitely be reading more of Clara’s books. Perfect mix of plot and dark romance. Also love the little details left about the next book.
Pyotr is sent to watch Daria and her daughter when she is suspected of sharing family secrets for money. The truth is so much more sinister.
Pyotr thinks he’ll be walking into a home that shows the wealth Daria has been receiving, instead he walks into a home with second hand furniture, minimal food in the cupboards and fridge and shoes that have holes in them. He also doesn’t expect to find Daria covered in bruises and scars. For her to be frightened after phone calls. The hidden camera in her daughter’s room. It all makes sense once he connects the dots.
Kiara is 5 years old obsessed with dinosaurs and tears down Pytors armour pretty quickly with talks about dinosaurs, gifts of glitter projects and teaching him how to braid her hair. He will risk it all to save them both and prove to his boss that Daria isn’t a traitor and is actually the victim of physical and mental abuse, manipulation and coercion.
Can Pytor prove Daria’s innocence before the family ‘fixer’ arrives to silence her for good?
Pyotr is sent to watch Daria and her daughter when she is suspected of sharing family secrets for money. The truth is so much more sinister.
Pyotr thinks he’ll be walking into a home that shows the wealth Daria has been receiving, instead he walks into a home with second hand furniture, minimal food in the cupboards and fridge and shoes that have holes in them. He also doesn’t expect to find Daria covered in bruises and scars. For her to be frightened after phone calls. The hidden camera in her daughter’s room. It all makes sense once he connects the dots.
Kiara is 5 years old obsessed with dinosaurs and tears down Pytors armour pretty quickly with talks about dinosaurs, gifts of glitter projects and teaching him how to braid her hair. He will risk it all to save them both and prove to his boss that Daria isn’t a traitor and is actually the victim of physical and mental abuse, manipulation and coercion.
Can Pytor prove Daria’s innocence before the family ‘fixer’ arrives to silence her for good?
Review of advance copy received from Author
I definitely love me a mafia romance and this book was right up there being so good. Great as a standalone or read as a series. This book had a bit of everything action, spice, and swoon worthy romance.
The story is about Pyotr who is sent on assignment to watch over his bosses cousin Daria Kozlov because evidence shows she might be feeding information to the enemy and if she is even if she's family she's to be taken out. Pyotr discovers things are not as they seem and she's just a mom trying to survive. Now he will stop at nothing to keep her and her little girl safe.
Pyotr and Daria are fire together from the very beginning. The spicy scenes between them were hot! Pyotr was such a softie too melting for her little girl it was the sweetest. Got to love a man who can be a powerful protector but gentle as can be with littles.
It hinted at the end of course of a continued story as this after all is a series so I look forward to what comes next!
I received an advanced reader copy and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
The story is about Pyotr who is sent on assignment to watch over his bosses cousin Daria Kozlov because evidence shows she might be feeding information to the enemy and if she is even if she's family she's to be taken out. Pyotr discovers things are not as they seem and she's just a mom trying to survive. Now he will stop at nothing to keep her and her little girl safe.
Pyotr and Daria are fire together from the very beginning. The spicy scenes between them were hot! Pyotr was such a softie too melting for her little girl it was the sweetest. Got to love a man who can be a powerful protector but gentle as can be with littles.
It hinted at the end of course of a continued story as this after all is a series so I look forward to what comes next!
I received an advanced reader copy and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
February 19, 2026
This story has all the things you like in a bodyguard/protector romance. You get suspense, betrayal, death, violence, hope, forgiveness, secrets revealed, and darkness. MFC, Daria, is on the run from someone who has hurt her. She tries to stay ahead of everyone and tries to protect herself by making herself small and invisible. However, she puts a target on her back, MMC, Pyotr is ruthless, dangerous if not deadly. He thinks she is sharing secrets that shouldn’t get out, The more he sees, the more he realizes she is broken and he starts to feel something for her. He wants to protect her and her daughter. Can he keep her safe and give them both a HEA? I love Clara’s writing style. She is very descriptive in a way that lets you see exactly what she wants you to see and make you feel what she wants you to feel. Her characters are always well developed and realistic. The relationship between the two is also realistic with just the right push and pull, chemistry, and spice. A great read.
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ stars
✨ Mafia Romance
✨ Spice
✨ HEA
✨ Protector MMC
✨ Trauma FMC
Yeah Clara has done it again another great book in this series.
I finished this one again in only a couple of hours.
They are such an addictive read you just want to know what is going to happen.
This book is action packed from start to end!
It’s so fast paced with high stakes.
The FMC Daria is labeled a traitor and our MMC Pyotr is sent to determine if she is guilty or not.
This was a great story line and such an enjoyable read.
The last couple of chapters had my heart racing waiting to know how it was going to end.
Even though this is book 4 in a series it can be read as a standalone.
And we are left on a soft cliff hanger for the next book.
I will definitely be continuing reading any books Clara puts out.
I received an advanced reader copy and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
✨ Mafia Romance
✨ Spice
✨ HEA
✨ Protector MMC
✨ Trauma FMC
Yeah Clara has done it again another great book in this series.
I finished this one again in only a couple of hours.
They are such an addictive read you just want to know what is going to happen.
This book is action packed from start to end!
It’s so fast paced with high stakes.
The FMC Daria is labeled a traitor and our MMC Pyotr is sent to determine if she is guilty or not.
This was a great story line and such an enjoyable read.
The last couple of chapters had my heart racing waiting to know how it was going to end.
Even though this is book 4 in a series it can be read as a standalone.
And we are left on a soft cliff hanger for the next book.
I will definitely be continuing reading any books Clara puts out.
I received an advanced reader copy and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book was *chefs kiss*. I was fortunate and able to be an ARC for this one and hadn’t realized it was the fourth in a series. As soon as I was done I immediately went to my Kindle and got the other 3. This was just simply, fantastic. The daughter Kira has the unapologetic style of a child, calling out the obvious elephant in the room and asking the hard questions. Pyotr is a strong male alpha who struggles with his soft side. He just calls it like he sees it without remorse. He pulls no punches and you can’t help but love him for it. He will also protect Daria and Kira with everything he has. Daria, the female character won me over immediately. She’s a struggling mother who’s doing her best trying to survive her abusive ex husband. She a ferocious little beast who will stop at nothing to protect Kira.
Review of advance copy received from Author
🖤 My review for Ruthless Protector 🖤
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶
Ohh this book was a good one!!! Super easy to get into and highly captivating!
This book is perfect if you have been/are in a reading slump!!
The book had good plot, the spice was there but not overwhelming, the characters was so easy to love and understand! And I love a good OTT protective MMC who is kind and understanding 🖤
Pyotr and Daria is the main characters in this book. I love the chemistry between them. He was sent to Daria och her little daughter to investigate but discovered briuses on her body and the things he been told just doesn't add up..
The writing was perfect and easy to read!
A huge thank you to Clara for giving me this book as an ARC!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶
Ohh this book was a good one!!! Super easy to get into and highly captivating!
This book is perfect if you have been/are in a reading slump!!
The book had good plot, the spice was there but not overwhelming, the characters was so easy to love and understand! And I love a good OTT protective MMC who is kind and understanding 🖤
Pyotr and Daria is the main characters in this book. I love the chemistry between them. He was sent to Daria och her little daughter to investigate but discovered briuses on her body and the things he been told just doesn't add up..
The writing was perfect and easy to read!
A huge thank you to Clara for giving me this book as an ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is the first book I’ve read by Clara Dunn! Her writing style is fairly easy to read which I appreciate! However, the book itself wasn’t… amazing… the main characters chemistry/romance just wasn’t really there and felt rushed. One moment they’re strangers/roommates the next moment they’re together….. where’s the buildup…? I personally also like a little more smut in mafia romance books. Pytor is slightly possessive and protective.. but there could have been more.
The family dynamic/relationship between Daria and her own family is also confusing. It sounds like she’s told Kira some about her uncle Alexei and where they live and what they have and his family… like they’re close.. but not close enough to ask for help?
The family dynamic/relationship between Daria and her own family is also confusing. It sounds like she’s told Kira some about her uncle Alexei and where they live and what they have and his family… like they’re close.. but not close enough to ask for help?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Clara Dunn delivers a masterclass in tension with Ruthless Protector.
The forced proximity between Pyotr and Daria under such extreme, life-threatening circumstances makes for a total page-turner.
Pyotr is a lethal force, dangerous to everyone except Daria and her daughter, Kira. I’m convinced he falls first—much to his own shock—and watching his icy walls melt during his sweet interactions with little Kira was pure magic.
But the heart of the story is Daria. Her strength is incredible; she refuses to stay down, overcoming a sense of defeat to truly thrive and find her agency. Watching her rise while Pyotr stands as her ultimate shield was everything I wanted. If you love a "burn the world down for them" hero and a resilient heroine, this is a must-read!
The forced proximity between Pyotr and Daria under such extreme, life-threatening circumstances makes for a total page-turner.
Pyotr is a lethal force, dangerous to everyone except Daria and her daughter, Kira. I’m convinced he falls first—much to his own shock—and watching his icy walls melt during his sweet interactions with little Kira was pure magic.
But the heart of the story is Daria. Her strength is incredible; she refuses to stay down, overcoming a sense of defeat to truly thrive and find her agency. Watching her rise while Pyotr stands as her ultimate shield was everything I wanted. If you love a "burn the world down for them" hero and a resilient heroine, this is a must-read!
Review of advance copy received from Author
From the very first page, Ruthless Protector by Clara Dunn captures your attention. It’s an all-or-nothing emotional journey that balances suspense with tenderness, duty vs. desire that keeps the tension at a breaking point.
The chemistry between Pyotr and Daria is electric, yet it’s the quiet moments that will steal your heart. Pyotr’s patience with Daria and his blossoming bond with her daughter adds a layer of softness to his hardened edges. Seeing a lethal man turn gentle for those he loves is book boyfriend material.
If you crave romance where danger lurks in the shadows and devotion burns hot, you’ll love Daria and Pyotr’s journey!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The chemistry between Pyotr and Daria is electric, yet it’s the quiet moments that will steal your heart. Pyotr’s patience with Daria and his blossoming bond with her daughter adds a layer of softness to his hardened edges. Seeing a lethal man turn gentle for those he loves is book boyfriend material.
If you crave romance where danger lurks in the shadows and devotion burns hot, you’ll love Daria and Pyotr’s journey!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 19, 2026
ARC Review
This is my first book from Clara Dunn, when I was done I went and downloaded the others before this one and devoured them all in two days.
I absolutely love a good Mafia romance and this didn’t disappoint.
Big and scary MMC succumbs to his soft side with the daughter of the one he’s been sent to investigate.
From the start he wasn’t sure she was guilty and he made it his mission to bring everything to light and save her from what was lying ahead of her.
From her scared outlook from her past to overcoming it all and finally being the ruthless woman she needed to be
I loved this book and the others before it and I can’t recommend it enough
And who doesn’t love a HEA ending!
This is my first book from Clara Dunn, when I was done I went and downloaded the others before this one and devoured them all in two days.
I absolutely love a good Mafia romance and this didn’t disappoint.
Big and scary MMC succumbs to his soft side with the daughter of the one he’s been sent to investigate.
From the start he wasn’t sure she was guilty and he made it his mission to bring everything to light and save her from what was lying ahead of her.
From her scared outlook from her past to overcoming it all and finally being the ruthless woman she needed to be
I loved this book and the others before it and I can’t recommend it enough
And who doesn’t love a HEA ending!
February 21, 2026
This is the fourth book in this impressive series, and this is Dimitri and Daria’s story.
Dimitri is assigned to watch Daria, move into her apartment, track her movements, and prove she is guilt of betrayal before the FBI freeze all of their accounts. Daria is a single mom to her 5-year-old daughter, and nothing like what Dimitri was led to believe, and his protective instincts come to the fore.
This is a well written story which has family dynamics, friendships, emotions, heartbreak, forced proximity, opposites attract, lies, secrets, betrayal, revelations, challenges, intrigue, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, twisted, and unpredictable, mafia romance.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Dimitri is assigned to watch Daria, move into her apartment, track her movements, and prove she is guilt of betrayal before the FBI freeze all of their accounts. Daria is a single mom to her 5-year-old daughter, and nothing like what Dimitri was led to believe, and his protective instincts come to the fore.
This is a well written story which has family dynamics, friendships, emotions, heartbreak, forced proximity, opposites attract, lies, secrets, betrayal, revelations, challenges, intrigue, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, twisted, and unpredictable, mafia romance.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
This book pulled me in from the first page. I expected a dark mafia story, but it gave me so much more. The tension is strong, but what really stood out to me was the emotional side of it. Watching a tough, dangerous man slowly shift from observer to protector felt real and powerful.
Daria and her daughter add so much heart to the story. The little moments like the tea party soften the edges in the best way. And when the truth starts to unfold, you can really feel the weight of it.
It’s intense, protective, and surprisingly emotional. If you like romance with danger and depth, this one is worth reading.
Daria and her daughter add so much heart to the story. The little moments like the tea party soften the edges in the best way. And when the truth starts to unfold, you can really feel the weight of it.
It’s intense, protective, and surprisingly emotional. If you like romance with danger and depth, this one is worth reading.
February 18, 2026
Pyotr is given an assignment -- watch over Daria Kozlov to determine if she is betraying the family and providing damaging information to the enemy. If she is, then her fate is sealed. Once Pyotr starts monitoring her, he has to adjust his preconceived notions because some things just aren't making any sense. The turning point is when he discovers a hidden camera -- in Daria's daughter's room. Now the mission, in his mind, has changed and he is determined to keep Daria and Kira safe from all harm.
I enjoyed how Daria brings out Pyotr's soft and protective side. The person(s) that are hurting Daria and Kira are in for a rude awakening.
I enjoyed how Daria brings out Pyotr's soft and protective side. The person(s) that are hurting Daria and Kira are in for a rude awakening.
February 18, 2026
Ruthless Protector is a gripping,action packed romance that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Clara Dunn masterfully weaves a tale of danger, loyalty, and love, set against the backdrop of the Russian mafia.
The story follows Pyotr, a ruthless enforcer sent to investigate Daria, a single mother suspected of betraying her family. As Pyotr gets closer to the truth, he finds himself torn between duty and his growing feelings for Daria and her daughter, Kira. Clara's writing is immersive, with vivid descriptions and well-developed characters. The plot twists are expertly crafted, keeping you guessing until the very end.
The story follows Pyotr, a ruthless enforcer sent to investigate Daria, a single mother suspected of betraying her family. As Pyotr gets closer to the truth, he finds himself torn between duty and his growing feelings for Daria and her daughter, Kira. Clara's writing is immersive, with vivid descriptions and well-developed characters. The plot twists are expertly crafted, keeping you guessing until the very end.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Ruthless Protector grabbed my attention from the very first chapter. Pyotr is sent to live with Daria to determine whether she’s a traitor, and the shift from potential executioner to fierce protector is both believable and deliciously tense. Daria’s daughter completely steals the show — and Pyotr’s heart — adding a softness that balances his hardened edges. Watching a man like him turn gentle is one of my favorite tropes, and this book delivers it beautifully. Pyotr will do anything to protect them, and we see just how far he’s willing to go to keep that promise.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Nothing is as it seems when Pytor moves into Daria's home to see if she is the one leaking information. What he finds is baffling and the time spent in close proximity has him discovering things that makes him want to protect both her and her daughter. Will he be able to discover the person leaking information and protect Daria from the threat that is detrimental to the Pakhan as well. This thrilling story has dangerous twists and turns that kept me glued to the pages.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 18, 2026
Ruthless Protectors is a wonderful Mafia story. Pyotr is sent to see if Daria is plotting against her mafia family, or if she is innocent. The story is easy to read and the characters are so interesting. Pyotr and Daria are physically attracted to each other and they grow closer as Pyotr works on Daria's case. Pyotr is very fond of Kira, Daria's daughter, and wants to keep her safe too. Ruthless Protector is a very enjoyable story filled with intrigue and romance. You will enjoy reading it.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 19, 2026
This Bravta dark romance that is action packed with hiding truths, love, danger and spice.
Darla is running and trying to hide her daughter from evil. Shes just trying to survive and now everything is trying to catch up and find her.
Pyotr is an enforcer sent to watch and assess how much or if Daria is a threat to her families Bravta.
Through truths, trust and lines crossed everything comes to light. Daria learns to trust Pyotr and he gives her security and love that she desperately needs and craves.
This book Will keep you on your toes, help you fall in and keeps your panties 😉
Darla is running and trying to hide her daughter from evil. Shes just trying to survive and now everything is trying to catch up and find her.
Pyotr is an enforcer sent to watch and assess how much or if Daria is a threat to her families Bravta.
Through truths, trust and lines crossed everything comes to light. Daria learns to trust Pyotr and he gives her security and love that she desperately needs and craves.
This book Will keep you on your toes, help you fall in and keeps your panties 😉
February 21, 2026
Holy wow. This book completely wrecked me. I have read my fair share of Bratva themed romances and this is the first one where the mere interaction between the MMC, a Bratva enforcer/investigator has such a sweet tender relationship with his targets 5 year old daughter. Their relationship completely reduced me to a sobbing mess on more than one occasion. This story grabs you right from the start and doesn’t let go. I especially loved the woman Daria becomes by the end. Well done. Positively magnificent. I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book provided by booksprout.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Pyotr and Daria captured me from the beginning. I had to keep reading to see if the two would finally end up together. Little Kira adds a fun light element to the darkness of a past relationship filled with violence. Daria grows throughout the book and her willingness to fight for her daughter was amazing. Lots of spice but it felt realistic given Daria’s past. Really loved this book and can’t wait to read more from this author!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow! Have loved every Clara Dunn book I have read so far! Will give anything she writes a chance just because of how well everything is written and how she pulls you in to her stories and the details. Swnt to save the family he works for and to solve the mystery and either get the truth or "take care of the issue". What he finally learns is chilling. She finally learns she has to trust him in order to save her life and her daughters.
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