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For years, I wasn’t human and didn’t want to be. It was easier to be the Beast, pacing in my cage until my handlers let me out to fight. I didn’t speak, didn’t have a name. My existence was brutal, but it was simple. I understood it. Accepted it.
But everything changed when Lucas was thrown into my cage with me, when I claimed him as my own—when I realized I would do anything to protect him. That meant getting us out, to somewhere safe.
And that’s what I did. That’s where we are now, in a good, safe place. Except, it doesn’t feel good to me. I don’t belong here. Nothing about me makes sense here.
I’m trying to make it work. I want Lucas to be happy. But the past keeps intruding, and the problem is … I want it to. I make sense in that dark space. But Lucas doesn’t, and I don’t want him there. So what the hell am I supposed to do?
* Safe focuses on Roman and Lucas and should be read after Possession and Confession. It contains dark and potentially triggering content. A content list can be found in the ebook sample.
But everything changed when Lucas was thrown into my cage with me, when I claimed him as my own—when I realized I would do anything to protect him. That meant getting us out, to somewhere safe.
And that’s what I did. That’s where we are now, in a good, safe place. Except, it doesn’t feel good to me. I don’t belong here. Nothing about me makes sense here.
I’m trying to make it work. I want Lucas to be happy. But the past keeps intruding, and the problem is … I want it to. I make sense in that dark space. But Lucas doesn’t, and I don’t want him there. So what the hell am I supposed to do?
* Safe focuses on Roman and Lucas and should be read after Possession and Confession. It contains dark and potentially triggering content. A content list can be found in the ebook sample.
150 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 1, 2026
About the author
Rina Saint
7 books825 followersRina loves her romances dark and dirty. Her books take you into the erotic lives of her complex, morally gray characters. If you love high intensity and fabulous smut, you're in the right place.
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September 9, 2026ALC provided by Blue Nose Audio
This is book 2.5 in The Constantine Brothers series. I really enjoyed this novella. It was quick fast paced and it gave me more of their relationship, their feelings, their struggles, and just how much they care about each other. The sweetness and their deep connection really came through.
The narration was great. The softer tone between the characters came through really well, especially in the quieter moments, and the performances made their affection feel more natural instead of overly sentimental. That sweetness between them was probably what worked the most for me in audio.
I recommend this for readers who enjoyed Possession and want more time with these characters and their relationship.
This is book 2.5 in The Constantine Brothers series. I really enjoyed this novella. It was quick fast paced and it gave me more of their relationship, their feelings, their struggles, and just how much they care about each other. The sweetness and their deep connection really came through.
The narration was great. The softer tone between the characters came through really well, especially in the quieter moments, and the performances made their affection feel more natural instead of overly sentimental. That sweetness between them was probably what worked the most for me in audio.
I recommend this for readers who enjoyed Possession and want more time with these characters and their relationship.
April 28, 2026
Arc Review: Safe » A Constantine Brothers Novella #2.5 by Rina Saint
MC:Roman & Lucas 4⭐
Safe is such a perfect name for this novella 😩 Ohhh I missed Roman growling, grunting all his man caveness… But Roman crying? Well that really was something else🥺🥺🥺🥺🥺
Expect all the possessiveness, roughness, protectiveness because it's who they are, but also the gentle side was so present, so needed. because a gentle rough beast is exactly what we get, and his submissive caring possession!
I was not expecting this novella to be so hard… But with a past like Roman had, just being ok with love would never work, and I'm glad Rina wrote this, to bring some light to their struggles. Seeing Roman opening up to Lucas and Vitali was amazing, the vulnerability necessary made these moments feel so important. Lucas is such an incredible partner, he is so patient and understanding, always trying to make Roman feel worthy 🥹
What I couldn’t care less was all the mafia shenanigans plot… I usually don't like it, but here it felt unnecessary because I wanted more Roman and Lucas, more Roman and Vitali, more Roman basically.
Loved that Lucas suggested a therapist, yeah please, dick and love can’t solve everything am I right?
I received a copy of this book from GRR, and this is my honest review.
⚠️Author Content Warnings
Rough sex
Choking
Biting
Controlling behavior
PTSD
Suicidal ideation
Violence
❣️Book Safety & Content
Other Person Drama: Duhhhh no obviously. Who would even dare? 😛
Third-Act Breakup: No
Role Dynamics: Strict roles
POV: 1st person dual
Format: Series
Ending: HFN
Angst Level: Medium
Spice Level: Medium
Communication: Some miscommunication
Pining: Stablish couple
MC:Roman & Lucas 4⭐
Safe is such a perfect name for this novella 😩 Ohhh I missed Roman growling, grunting all his man caveness… But Roman crying? Well that really was something else🥺🥺🥺🥺🥺
Expect all the possessiveness, roughness, protectiveness because it's who they are, but also the gentle side was so present, so needed. because a gentle rough beast is exactly what we get, and his submissive caring possession!
I was not expecting this novella to be so hard… But with a past like Roman had, just being ok with love would never work, and I'm glad Rina wrote this, to bring some light to their struggles. Seeing Roman opening up to Lucas and Vitali was amazing, the vulnerability necessary made these moments feel so important. Lucas is such an incredible partner, he is so patient and understanding, always trying to make Roman feel worthy 🥹
What I couldn’t care less was all the mafia shenanigans plot… I usually don't like it, but here it felt unnecessary because I wanted more Roman and Lucas, more Roman and Vitali, more Roman basically.
Loved that Lucas suggested a therapist, yeah please, dick and love can’t solve everything am I right?
“He takes my face in his hands and strokes my cheekbones with his thumbs. “Why are you so good?” he asks.
It makes my eyes sting because I know it’s not true. “I’m not,” I tell him. “I’m selfish. I won’t let you go. You’re mine, Roman, and nothing gets to take you from me.”
A breath stutters into him. His eyes dart back and forth over my face. Roman doesn’t hide his emotion from me, and I’m so glad. I love that about him. I love so many things about him. Tears well in his eyes, making them well in mine.”
“I’ll try it,” he finally says. “What you suggested. Talking to someone.”
I take a deep breath and close my eyes. I lean my head against him.
I’ve always known how strong Roman is. Some aspects of it were obvious from the moment I first laid eyes on him: his physical power and his ability to endure. But over time, I’ve seen more and more facets of his strength. When he first broke his silence for me. When he got us both free. I’ve seen it, too, in how hard he’s worked to make sure I’m happy and comfortable here. But I don’t think I’ve ever seen it more clearly than I see it now.
“I love you, Roman. God, I do.”
He buries his nose in my hair. “I love you too.” Then he nudges the book my way. “Do the voices,” he says, so I pick it up and open to chapter three.”
I received a copy of this book from GRR, and this is my honest review.
⚠️Author Content Warnings
Rough sex
Choking
Biting
Controlling behavior
PTSD
Suicidal ideation
Violence
❣️Book Safety & Content
Other Person Drama: Duhhhh no obviously. Who would even dare? 😛
Third-Act Breakup: No
Role Dynamics: Strict roles
POV: 1st person dual
Format: Series
Ending: HFN
Angst Level: Medium
Spice Level: Medium
Communication: Some miscommunication
Pining: Stablish couple
May 1, 2026
I was so, so excited when I heard Rina was going to gift us with another glimpse into the world of Roman and Lucas. And, while it didn't disappoint, it didn't quite fulfill every wish I had. Still, I loved seeing them and it was a solid 4.25 stars.
Umm so idk exactly what I thought I was gonna feel while reading this, but I cried way more than seems reasonable lol. Roman's struggle to just be a person in a world that he no longer feels he belongs in while trying to be present with Lucas? Lucas's struggle to support Roman knowing he'll never understand the extent of the hurt? Ugh, these men desperately love each other but aren't sure how to build a life on the ashes of their old ones.
Things I am forever grateful for:
- Vitali and Roman having the conversations they needed to have
- The understanding between Quinn and Roman
- Not shying away from what it feels like for Roman just to get through the day
- Lucas trusting his instincts and pushing through his insecurities, showing that he's more sure of himself
- Lucas having the courage to say what needed to be said while still being a softy in general (I'm glad she didn't try to make him harder)
- Lucas still reading to Roman (and doing the voices!) 🥹 and baking
- The cockwarming making a comeback
- The "I love you"s
- Finally having more concrete conversations about getting professional mental health help
Things I wish I'd gotten:
- A conversation about Lucas's sexuality! Idk why I'm obsessed with knowing what Roman's reaction is to knowing that he was Lucas's awakening and that he's the only man Lucas has ever been with but I'll be wanting that til the end of time
- Slightly more time where they weren't in distress - maybe showing them out in public again on a date or them having another little family movie night or pool day, just some time where it didn't feel so angsty
- Roman and Lucas felt a little out of sync, like Lucas's instincts weren't quite as on track as they used to be and I wish there'd been some way of showing that they're still on the same page outside of sex
- I wish someone had brought up Lucas's stepdad?! Like, I wanted acknowledgement that that dude is dead!
Anyway, I will love these two forever so I'm happy that we got more. And I am so looking forward to the next project that she hinted at in her author's note.
*
*
*
*
*
Safety (may contain spoilers)
SA/rape: None
Other person drama: None
Umm so idk exactly what I thought I was gonna feel while reading this, but I cried way more than seems reasonable lol. Roman's struggle to just be a person in a world that he no longer feels he belongs in while trying to be present with Lucas? Lucas's struggle to support Roman knowing he'll never understand the extent of the hurt? Ugh, these men desperately love each other but aren't sure how to build a life on the ashes of their old ones.
Things I am forever grateful for:
- Vitali and Roman having the conversations they needed to have
- The understanding between Quinn and Roman
- Not shying away from what it feels like for Roman just to get through the day
- Lucas trusting his instincts and pushing through his insecurities, showing that he's more sure of himself
- Lucas having the courage to say what needed to be said while still being a softy in general (I'm glad she didn't try to make him harder)
- Lucas still reading to Roman (and doing the voices!) 🥹 and baking
- The cockwarming making a comeback
- The "I love you"s
- Finally having more concrete conversations about getting professional mental health help
Things I wish I'd gotten:
- A conversation about Lucas's sexuality! Idk why I'm obsessed with knowing what Roman's reaction is to knowing that he was Lucas's awakening and that he's the only man Lucas has ever been with but I'll be wanting that til the end of time
- Slightly more time where they weren't in distress - maybe showing them out in public again on a date or them having another little family movie night or pool day, just some time where it didn't feel so angsty
- Roman and Lucas felt a little out of sync, like Lucas's instincts weren't quite as on track as they used to be and I wish there'd been some way of showing that they're still on the same page outside of sex
- I wish someone had brought up Lucas's stepdad?! Like, I wanted acknowledgement that that dude is dead!
Anyway, I will love these two forever so I'm happy that we got more. And I am so looking forward to the next project that she hinted at in her author's note.
Quinn is still pretty reserved, but ever since his and Vitali’s relationship evolved from bodyguard and boss to a real partnership, more of Quinn’s personality has emerged. I know why, because the same thing has happened to me with Roman. Quinn feels safe now, like I do.
Eventually, he says, “This isn’t what I want for you.” I don’t want this for him either, but I don’t think he’s ready to hear that, so I just say, “I know.” “You don’t belong in this place.” That one I can’t let pass by, so I tell him, “Neither do you.”
“You belong here, Lucas. You should be here. Everyone will take care of you—” “What, you mean without you?” “Whether I’m here or not!” “For fuck’s sake, Roman, I don’t belong here—I belong with you!”
“I will go with you, wherever you fucking go. And if you’re talking about what I think you’re talking about, I’ll go there with you too. Do you fucking understand me?”
“I want better for him.” “He loves you.” “I know.” “I’m not sure you do, Roman. I think you only see the generous part of his love, the part that he gives. And it’s real. It’s big. I see it every fucking day. But there’s a selfish part of his love too. A possessive and hungry part. He needs you as much as you need him.”
“Why are you so good?” he asks. It makes my eyes sting because I know it’s not true. “I’m not,” I tell him. “I’m selfish. I won’t let you go. You’re mine, Roman, and nothing gets to take you from me.”
“I love you, Roman. God, I do.” He buries his nose in my hair. “I love you too.” Then he nudges the book my way. “Do the voices,” he says, so I pick it up and open to chapter three.
*
*
*
*
*
Safety (may contain spoilers)
SA/rape: None
Other person drama: None
May 4, 2026
Tropes: hurt/comfort, established relationship
Feels: 4.5/5
Steam*: 3/5
Kinks: rough sex, choking, biting, multiple orgasms
Angst: medium
HEA: HEA
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings/representation: suicidal ideation, violence, murder, ptsd, past slavery
Cheating between MCs: No
Any cheating: No
Other person drama: None
5 stars
This novella is a continuation of the story of Roman and Lucas. Roman was sold and forced to fight to the death over and over again for entertainment value. He was abused. He became mute and shut off to cope. Then another prisoner was thrown into the room with him, not to fight, just as a distraction, and Roman fell for him. And he ended up escaping, not for his own sake, but for Lucas's. Now they are living in safety, with Roman's brother, and Roman is trying to adapt to some kind of new normal life. And he is struggling. Everything is different than what he is used to, he has nightmares and gets confused by sensory stimulus and thinks he is back in captivity at times. He is overwhelmed by all the space, the sound, everything. He's struggling with suicidal thoughts, because he sometimes things death would be easier, and that people around him would be better off without him. He struggles to really talk to Lucas and other people who care about them.
Through this all, they have a really strong love. Lucas knows that Roman is struggling, and he's not afraid of him, he is scared for him in both selfish and unselfish ways. He wants to make sure he doesn't lose Roman. They are each other's port in the storm, they are so much happier together than either has ever been before. They are such a comfort to each other.
This is a beautiful follow-up story. Their struggles were so complex. And I just loved their love. The way that they held each other, took platonic comfort in each other (while of course having mind blowing sex as well), loved each other unconditionally, the love and worry in their eyes, the way they clutched each other and hugged so tight, the possessive bites Roman gave, their nonverbal communication.... Swoon. I am weak for this kind of love.
Some notable moments:
"I had to get him out of there because a time would have come when I wouldn’t have been able to protect him. I had long since accepted my own death as inevitable, but I no longer could—because my death would have meant his. And … I wanted more for him. I wanted this. Him in soft, clean clothes with a cup of coffee and a book. Him in a nice, safe space."
"“I’m sorry,” I tell him. He swallows hard. “It’s okay.” “I’m trying,” I say quietly. His eyes fill with tears. “I know.” When I reach for him, he springs up into my arms. He wraps his legs around my waist and holds on tight. The position is similar to when I fucked him, but it feels completely different now. His face tucks against me, and mine tucks against him. I hold him for a long time, until I start to feel centered again, until I start to feel calm."
"I’ve known from the beginning that our love is deep and strong, but it’s really beautiful to learn that it can get even stronger. It makes me imagine twenty years from now, even forty. It makes me imagine what we could be, and I’m determined that we’re both going to see it."
*FYI about steam: I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.
Feels: 4.5/5
Steam*: 3/5
Kinks: rough sex, choking, biting, multiple orgasms
Angst: medium
HEA: HEA
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings/representation: suicidal ideation, violence, murder, ptsd, past slavery
Cheating between MCs: No
Any cheating: No
Other person drama: None
5 stars
This novella is a continuation of the story of Roman and Lucas. Roman was sold and forced to fight to the death over and over again for entertainment value. He was abused. He became mute and shut off to cope. Then another prisoner was thrown into the room with him, not to fight, just as a distraction, and Roman fell for him. And he ended up escaping, not for his own sake, but for Lucas's. Now they are living in safety, with Roman's brother, and Roman is trying to adapt to some kind of new normal life. And he is struggling. Everything is different than what he is used to, he has nightmares and gets confused by sensory stimulus and thinks he is back in captivity at times. He is overwhelmed by all the space, the sound, everything. He's struggling with suicidal thoughts, because he sometimes things death would be easier, and that people around him would be better off without him. He struggles to really talk to Lucas and other people who care about them.
Through this all, they have a really strong love. Lucas knows that Roman is struggling, and he's not afraid of him, he is scared for him in both selfish and unselfish ways. He wants to make sure he doesn't lose Roman. They are each other's port in the storm, they are so much happier together than either has ever been before. They are such a comfort to each other.
This is a beautiful follow-up story. Their struggles were so complex. And I just loved their love. The way that they held each other, took platonic comfort in each other (while of course having mind blowing sex as well), loved each other unconditionally, the love and worry in their eyes, the way they clutched each other and hugged so tight, the possessive bites Roman gave, their nonverbal communication.... Swoon. I am weak for this kind of love.
Some notable moments:
"I had to get him out of there because a time would have come when I wouldn’t have been able to protect him. I had long since accepted my own death as inevitable, but I no longer could—because my death would have meant his. And … I wanted more for him. I wanted this. Him in soft, clean clothes with a cup of coffee and a book. Him in a nice, safe space."
"“I’m sorry,” I tell him. He swallows hard. “It’s okay.” “I’m trying,” I say quietly. His eyes fill with tears. “I know.” When I reach for him, he springs up into my arms. He wraps his legs around my waist and holds on tight. The position is similar to when I fucked him, but it feels completely different now. His face tucks against me, and mine tucks against him. I hold him for a long time, until I start to feel centered again, until I start to feel calm."
"I’ve known from the beginning that our love is deep and strong, but it’s really beautiful to learn that it can get even stronger. It makes me imagine twenty years from now, even forty. It makes me imagine what we could be, and I’m determined that we’re both going to see it."
*FYI about steam: I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.
June 1, 2026
I’m glad we got another Lucas and Roman book. Their relationship is just as intense but there’s more understanding there. Plus, Roman talks more!
Vitali and Roman get a bit more closure as well. Everyone that had anything to do with Roman’s kidnapping has been taken eliminated.
Everyone is on the road to healing.
Vitali and Roman get a bit more closure as well. Everyone that had anything to do with Roman’s kidnapping has been taken eliminated.
Everyone is on the road to healing.
May 7, 2026
What a way to go back to this world.
I never expected to get more from Roman & Lucas and in this way.
It hurt but it was a type of closure that I didn't know was needed at the time.
The things these two go through after being home for some time is what could be considered a nightmare especially for Roman.
It was hard to grasp what to feel in his POV because he struggles so much. Should he be Roman Constantine or should be he the Beast?
His center is not feeling so center anymore and wants better for him but in the end, that will never happen.
Lucas is a force to go against especially where Roman is concerned. He will by no means give him up no matter what. If one goes then so does the other, always.
Getting how lucas was feeling at that one moment made even me tear up because that is not the Roman we know, he is struggling and finding it hard. Lucas is the one who is blocked out.
This ended the only way it should have. They love each other and are there for each other no matter what. The Constantine brothers are back, maybe not fully but they are back together again.
I cannot wait to see what Rina comes out with next.
I never expected to get more from Roman & Lucas and in this way.
It hurt but it was a type of closure that I didn't know was needed at the time.
The things these two go through after being home for some time is what could be considered a nightmare especially for Roman.
It was hard to grasp what to feel in his POV because he struggles so much. Should he be Roman Constantine or should be he the Beast?
His center is not feeling so center anymore and wants better for him but in the end, that will never happen.
Lucas is a force to go against especially where Roman is concerned. He will by no means give him up no matter what. If one goes then so does the other, always.
Getting how lucas was feeling at that one moment made even me tear up because that is not the Roman we know, he is struggling and finding it hard. Lucas is the one who is blocked out.
This ended the only way it should have. They love each other and are there for each other no matter what. The Constantine brothers are back, maybe not fully but they are back together again.
I cannot wait to see what Rina comes out with next.
May 1, 2026
This was always going to be a difficult task for the author and full respect to her for coming up with this beautiful darkling. Both Roman and Luca dealt with a labyrinth of thoughts after the trauma they suffered in captivity. This felt like it was speeding ahead with the breaks on while all they really needed was time. A great read as a finale to this series.
Review of advance copy
I think I should start by saying that Possession is one of my top three MM romances of all time. Roman and Lucas got so deeply under my skin that I continuously go to that book as my hidey hole when the world feels like too much. So when Rina Saint mentioned on Instagram that she was writing a novella about Roman and Lucas, my level of excitement was not entirely dignified. I was counting down to May 1, and then getting my hands on an ARC through Gay Romance Reads felt like winning the lottery.
I need to be clear for anyone who has not read Possession— this is not a standalone. You absolutely need to read Possession first. Roman’s backstory is essential, and without it, this won’t land the way it should. And also, lucky you. Oh, to be able to read Possession again for the first time…
In Safe, Roman is dealing with setbacks tied to his brutally hard-earned PTSD, and it starts to impact both his ability to function and his relationship with Lucas. It’s heartbreaking on multiple levels—what Roman has endured and continues to endure is devastating—but what really gutted me was Lucas. Given his childhood of being repeatedly rejected and abandoned by the people who were supposed to love him, Roman pulling away hits him right in his deepest wound.
What I loved, though, is that Lucas has grown. He’s still sweet, still leans submissive in their dynamic, but he has more agency here. He speaks up. He protects Roman in his own way. That evolution felt really satisfying. I also love that everything is not resolved at the end. It’s an HEA, but we know Roman will continue to struggle with his PTSD, but he is at least on the road to healing. That feels very real.
For a novella, the emotional stakes are impressively high. The conflict feels real, intense, and at times almost overwhelming. I was genuinely caught off guard by how hard certain moments hit, especially when Roman starts making plans to ensure Lucas is taken care of if something happens to him (content warning: suicidal ideation is handled very directly here). That thread was painful but incredibly well done.
And then there’s the whole Constantine crew, still absolute perfection. The found family dynamic, the constant undercurrent of everyone looking out for each other, it’s chef’s kiss as always. I loved finally getting a real breakthrough between Roman and Vitale. That hug? I’ve been waiting two damn books for that moment and it absolutely delivered. Seeing Quinn and Vitale together was also a treat, and Sasha continues to be flawlessly written; I can practically hear her delivery in every line.
Honestly, my only real complaint is that it ended. I am so deeply, weirdly attached to Roman and Lucas, and the entire Constantine family, that I’m just not ready to let them go.
And I don’t think I ever will be.
I need to be clear for anyone who has not read Possession— this is not a standalone. You absolutely need to read Possession first. Roman’s backstory is essential, and without it, this won’t land the way it should. And also, lucky you. Oh, to be able to read Possession again for the first time…
In Safe, Roman is dealing with setbacks tied to his brutally hard-earned PTSD, and it starts to impact both his ability to function and his relationship with Lucas. It’s heartbreaking on multiple levels—what Roman has endured and continues to endure is devastating—but what really gutted me was Lucas. Given his childhood of being repeatedly rejected and abandoned by the people who were supposed to love him, Roman pulling away hits him right in his deepest wound.
What I loved, though, is that Lucas has grown. He’s still sweet, still leans submissive in their dynamic, but he has more agency here. He speaks up. He protects Roman in his own way. That evolution felt really satisfying. I also love that everything is not resolved at the end. It’s an HEA, but we know Roman will continue to struggle with his PTSD, but he is at least on the road to healing. That feels very real.
For a novella, the emotional stakes are impressively high. The conflict feels real, intense, and at times almost overwhelming. I was genuinely caught off guard by how hard certain moments hit, especially when Roman starts making plans to ensure Lucas is taken care of if something happens to him (content warning: suicidal ideation is handled very directly here). That thread was painful but incredibly well done.
And then there’s the whole Constantine crew, still absolute perfection. The found family dynamic, the constant undercurrent of everyone looking out for each other, it’s chef’s kiss as always. I loved finally getting a real breakthrough between Roman and Vitale. That hug? I’ve been waiting two damn books for that moment and it absolutely delivered. Seeing Quinn and Vitale together was also a treat, and Sasha continues to be flawlessly written; I can practically hear her delivery in every line.
Honestly, my only real complaint is that it ended. I am so deeply, weirdly attached to Roman and Lucas, and the entire Constantine family, that I’m just not ready to let them go.
And I don’t think I ever will be.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Read
May 7, 2026Nice to jump back in with Lucas and Roman again! Looking forward to what’s next in this series ❤️
May 19, 2026
4,25 stars: this was by far the best installment of the series, even though it was just a novella (albeit a longer one, I guess — 156 pages). It covers Roman’s and Lucas’ lives after finally being free again and explores how someone survives what they had to go through. I liked that it was surprisingly realistic for a dark romance and addressed the negative sides of such a brutal life. So, all in all, I really liked these books🧸
«You can’t protect me with your absence.»🖤
«You can’t protect me with your absence.»🖤
May 11, 2026
ARC review
Roman was so broken, I felt so sad watching him struggle with daily life after being imprisioned for years. It wasn't easy but he was trying, for himself but mostly for Lucas.
Lucas was such a cutie pie and he was trying so hard to understand and be there for Roman. It wasn't easy too but he couldn't give up on their love.
I just love their love
Roman was so broken, I felt so sad watching him struggle with daily life after being imprisioned for years. It wasn't easy but he was trying, for himself but mostly for Lucas.
Lucas was such a cutie pie and he was trying so hard to understand and be there for Roman. It wasn't easy too but he couldn't give up on their love.
I just love their love
May 3, 2026
This is an established couple mafia romance novella, featuring Roman and Lucas, and is book three in the Constantine Brothers series.
Roman spent years as a brutal fighter locked in a cage until Lucas changed everything and gave him a reason to escape. Now that they’re finally safe, Roman struggles to leave his violent past behind while trying to build a better life with the man he loves.
I loved seeing more of Roman and Lucas and I just wanted to hug Roman so much as it was so hard to see him struggling to adjust back into the world. This found family is ride or die, they would do anything for anyone.
If you haven’t read this series, jump in.
Things to expect in this book are:
Book 3 in series
Novella
MM mafia romance
Check CW
Established couple
Hurt / Comfort
PTSD
Healing from trauma
Mental health themes
Codependent
Protective & possessive
Carries him
Spicy times
Rough play & restraints
Wall s*x
Biting & marking
Mafia drama/angst
Found family
HEA
Roman spent years as a brutal fighter locked in a cage until Lucas changed everything and gave him a reason to escape. Now that they’re finally safe, Roman struggles to leave his violent past behind while trying to build a better life with the man he loves.
I loved seeing more of Roman and Lucas and I just wanted to hug Roman so much as it was so hard to see him struggling to adjust back into the world. This found family is ride or die, they would do anything for anyone.
If you haven’t read this series, jump in.
Things to expect in this book are:
Book 3 in series
Novella
MM mafia romance
Check CW
Established couple
Hurt / Comfort
PTSD
Healing from trauma
Mental health themes
Codependent
Protective & possessive
Carries him
Spicy times
Rough play & restraints
Wall s*x
Biting & marking
Mafia drama/angst
Found family
HEA
September 7, 2026
Well wasn’t that just a tasty little morsel…I LOVE Lucas and Roman and it was so good to get a little more of them together. I feel so bad for poor Roman…I enjoyed this extra story of him learning to move on and try to heal. It was good to see Roman and Vitale start to repair their relationship too!
May 19, 2026
I love Roman and Lucas so much. This was another great installment ♥️♥️
May 19, 2026
2.75/5 ⭐️⭐️
Roman and Lucas were cute and all but unfortunately for them, I have seen Vitali and Quinn exist, so the bar was in hell for everybody else from the start.
Like okay yes, it was nice getting to revisit this world and these characters, but every single interaction between Roman and Lucas felt like:
fight, fuck, miscommunicate, fuck again, stare dramatically, fuck AGAIN. Like goddamn don’t your booty hole hurt?
And after a while I was sitting there like okay… but do y’all even LIKE each other outside of orgasms?
The emotional connection just never fully hit for me. I LOVE intense relationships and messy internal conflict, so the beginning had me SAT. I thought we were about to get something devastating and obsessive and insane. Instead it slowly turned into pages of repetitive horny negotiations.
Meanwhile the second that Vitali and Quinn showed up I came back to life like a Victorian woman being revived with smelling salts. Suddenly I cared again. Suddenly I had emotions. Honestly they’re carrying this series on their backs and that tiny sprinkle of them is genuinely why this still gets 2.75 stars.
That being said, I am glad it ended the way it did because dragging this out any longer would’ve actually killed me.
Roman and Lucas were cute and all but unfortunately for them, I have seen Vitali and Quinn exist, so the bar was in hell for everybody else from the start.
Like okay yes, it was nice getting to revisit this world and these characters, but every single interaction between Roman and Lucas felt like:
fight, fuck, miscommunicate, fuck again, stare dramatically, fuck AGAIN. Like goddamn don’t your booty hole hurt?
And after a while I was sitting there like okay… but do y’all even LIKE each other outside of orgasms?
The emotional connection just never fully hit for me. I LOVE intense relationships and messy internal conflict, so the beginning had me SAT. I thought we were about to get something devastating and obsessive and insane. Instead it slowly turned into pages of repetitive horny negotiations.
Meanwhile the second that Vitali and Quinn showed up I came back to life like a Victorian woman being revived with smelling salts. Suddenly I cared again. Suddenly I had emotions. Honestly they’re carrying this series on their backs and that tiny sprinkle of them is genuinely why this still gets 2.75 stars.
That being said, I am glad it ended the way it did because dragging this out any longer would’ve actually killed me.
May 20, 2026
What was the point of this book? Because we started in the aftermath of the “Possession” and… we stayed there.
Nothing really got resolved, it was just 100-something pages of them still trauma bonding, mostly through sex, which quickly got repetitive and thus boring.
Lucas still has no life of his own, he’s some kind of tradwife/ nursemaid, Roman is still very much lost in his own trauma, maybe even got worse, considering his suicidal ideation… seriously, what was the point of the book?
It just reiterated everything we already knew and offered a promise of fixing it… as a conclusion. Huh?
Nothing really got resolved, it was just 100-something pages of them still trauma bonding, mostly through sex, which quickly got repetitive and thus boring.
Lucas still has no life of his own, he’s some kind of tradwife/ nursemaid, Roman is still very much lost in his own trauma, maybe even got worse, considering his suicidal ideation… seriously, what was the point of the book?
It just reiterated everything we already knew and offered a promise of fixing it… as a conclusion. Huh?
May 27, 2026
4.25 stars!
Safe was a really beautiful, heartbreaking and thoughtful continuation of Lucas and Roman. If you haven’t read their story, I highly suggest you do because it’s just amazing and well you won’t understand this novella without it.
After the events that Lucas and Roman went through, Roman is finding it difficult to assimilate back into the real world and heal from the trauma he had to live with for an extended amount of time when he was a beast. But he wants to heal for Lucas. You can tell he desperately wants to be the healed version of himself already for Lucas and give him some sort of normalcy.
Lucas knows they’ll never have normal. He only wants Roman to be content and safe and in his arms but he feels at a loss on how to help his soulmate. Their now shared trauma runs deep and when it becomes too much, running away or using sex has been Roman’s way of communicating and connecting. It’s really lovely how they communicate with intimacy.
Safe ends on a HFN in a bittersweet way because while these two have each other, the healing journey will still be long for Roman. And Lucas for that matter. But Roman is willing to put in the work and Lucas is more than happy to be his safe space.
Rina is a fabulous story teller and does such an amazing job at writing characters with so much depth. She writes eroticism that has an incredible amount of passion and intensity even when the characters seem broken beyond belief. I loved the way Rina has written Lucas and Roman in such a way that makes it feel realistic. Their story consumed me and I hope she writes more novellas displaying their path to healing.
Safe was a really beautiful, heartbreaking and thoughtful continuation of Lucas and Roman. If you haven’t read their story, I highly suggest you do because it’s just amazing and well you won’t understand this novella without it.
After the events that Lucas and Roman went through, Roman is finding it difficult to assimilate back into the real world and heal from the trauma he had to live with for an extended amount of time when he was a beast. But he wants to heal for Lucas. You can tell he desperately wants to be the healed version of himself already for Lucas and give him some sort of normalcy.
Lucas knows they’ll never have normal. He only wants Roman to be content and safe and in his arms but he feels at a loss on how to help his soulmate. Their now shared trauma runs deep and when it becomes too much, running away or using sex has been Roman’s way of communicating and connecting. It’s really lovely how they communicate with intimacy.
Safe ends on a HFN in a bittersweet way because while these two have each other, the healing journey will still be long for Roman. And Lucas for that matter. But Roman is willing to put in the work and Lucas is more than happy to be his safe space.
Rina is a fabulous story teller and does such an amazing job at writing characters with so much depth. She writes eroticism that has an incredible amount of passion and intensity even when the characters seem broken beyond belief. I loved the way Rina has written Lucas and Roman in such a way that makes it feel realistic. Their story consumed me and I hope she writes more novellas displaying their path to healing.
May 23, 2026
This novella truly feels like a gift from Rina to her readers. After the HEA in Possession, many of us were left wondering what came next—especially for Roman, who was so deeply traumatized and far from ready to face the world again. This story picks up right where we left them, and I was completely pulled back in.
Rina has a remarkable ability to write about pain, trauma, angst, and the struggles of simply dealing with life—all intertwined with intense, gripping spice. It’s an addictive combination, and I’m absolutely here for it. This installment is even heavier than the previous ones. Roman’s trauma is raw and overwhelming, and Lucas’s codependency and inability to do something is hard. Rina captures it all with striking intensity. I felt the despair, the constant battle to cling on to life or not , the relentless worry from Lucas and Vitali, and the sometimes toxic ways they cope with it all.
Rina doesn't make it pretty, these characters deal with it all in the way they know or can and sometimes it's not healthy but they really fucking try.
The moment Roman and Vitali finally talk teared me up. Their exchange may be imperfect, filled with unspoken emotions and so little words, but it carries so much weight. It was beautiful.
If I had one wish, it would be for a little more time with them further along in their healing journey—to catch a glimpse of peace, of domestic normalcy, of happiness. Unfortunately, the story ends just before we get there.
That said, I absolutely loved this addition to the series, and I’m so grateful to Rina for giving us this piece of their story.
Rina has a remarkable ability to write about pain, trauma, angst, and the struggles of simply dealing with life—all intertwined with intense, gripping spice. It’s an addictive combination, and I’m absolutely here for it. This installment is even heavier than the previous ones. Roman’s trauma is raw and overwhelming, and Lucas’s codependency and inability to do something is hard. Rina captures it all with striking intensity. I felt the despair, the constant battle to cling on to life or not , the relentless worry from Lucas and Vitali, and the sometimes toxic ways they cope with it all.
Rina doesn't make it pretty, these characters deal with it all in the way they know or can and sometimes it's not healthy but they really fucking try.
The moment Roman and Vitali finally talk teared me up. Their exchange may be imperfect, filled with unspoken emotions and so little words, but it carries so much weight. It was beautiful.
If I had one wish, it would be for a little more time with them further along in their healing journey—to catch a glimpse of peace, of domestic normalcy, of happiness. Unfortunately, the story ends just before we get there.
That said, I absolutely loved this addition to the series, and I’m so grateful to Rina for giving us this piece of their story.
September 16, 2026
ALC review -
5⭐️ for the narrators and their performance. Sean Masters and Oscar Reyes captured Roman and Lucas perfectly. This was a short novella that gave us a glimpse into Roman and Lucas’s lives, post Possession (if you haven’t read their book, you must). Witnessing Roman’s struggles was sad, but watching Lucas support Roman through it all made me remember why I fell in love with these two in the first place.
Roman’s past is riddled with trauma, which you understand from book 1, and this book certainly didn’t shy away from that storyline. That said, I love that this book did a great job of showcasing Roman’s growth and the role Lucas plays in his growth. Roman’s healing was given a space in this novella, and of course, it left me yearning for more.
While Roman is the protective, possessive one who takes care of Lucas, Lucas reciprocates that caretaking in his own way by giving Roman everything he needs. I loved seeing the evolution of their relationship and Lucas’s tenderness for Roman.
Also, for such a short book, it’s pretty spicy. It’s definitely filled with excitement from start to finish. And again, the audiobook was delicious. I could listen to these two narrators all day.
5⭐️ for the narrators and their performance. Sean Masters and Oscar Reyes captured Roman and Lucas perfectly. This was a short novella that gave us a glimpse into Roman and Lucas’s lives, post Possession (if you haven’t read their book, you must). Witnessing Roman’s struggles was sad, but watching Lucas support Roman through it all made me remember why I fell in love with these two in the first place.
Roman’s past is riddled with trauma, which you understand from book 1, and this book certainly didn’t shy away from that storyline. That said, I love that this book did a great job of showcasing Roman’s growth and the role Lucas plays in his growth. Roman’s healing was given a space in this novella, and of course, it left me yearning for more.
While Roman is the protective, possessive one who takes care of Lucas, Lucas reciprocates that caretaking in his own way by giving Roman everything he needs. I loved seeing the evolution of their relationship and Lucas’s tenderness for Roman.
Also, for such a short book, it’s pretty spicy. It’s definitely filled with excitement from start to finish. And again, the audiobook was delicious. I could listen to these two narrators all day.
May 6, 2026
This novella needed to be written. There was no way for Roman to move on without dealing with everything that happened to him and reconciling who he was with who he became. Lucas went through stuff too but he always had Roman to cushion him from the worst of it. He was also not trapped in that place for as long as Roman so ite completely understandable that he emerged with less PTSD than Roman. I love that Roman settled things with Lucas and Vitali and started to heal even before the therapy. He also acknowledged that Quinn and Sasha were part of his life and was honest enough to admit they probably like who he is now but may not have liked who he was before. This means he could see how a horrible experience inadvertently made him more humane. Lucas and Roman compliment each other perfectly, Roman offers Lucas's physical protection and security and Lucas offers emotional support to Roman.
Safe was an apt title!!
Safe was an apt title!!
May 15, 2026
Well.
Since I can't (and won't) stop yapping about "Possession" to everyone who's willing to listen, this was an OBVIOUS must-read.
And yes. I am very biased, because I fell in love with both in Possession, and unless you make them extremely unlikeable I will love every word written about them!!!
What's not to love about reading more about my favourite toxic couple??? 🩵🩵🩵
If you don't love Roman and Lucas, don't talk to me! We just can't be friends. (Sorry, not sorry.)
No, seriously. I can't get enough of their story. Their relationship might be toxic and unhealthy as fuck, but I just don't care. Their story and love is unique, and I'm yet to find a book that rivals theirs. 🩵🩵🩵
Since I can't (and won't) stop yapping about "Possession" to everyone who's willing to listen, this was an OBVIOUS must-read.
And yes. I am very biased, because I fell in love with both in Possession, and unless you make them extremely unlikeable I will love every word written about them!!!
What's not to love about reading more about my favourite toxic couple??? 🩵🩵🩵
If you don't love Roman and Lucas, don't talk to me! We just can't be friends. (Sorry, not sorry.)
No, seriously. I can't get enough of their story. Their relationship might be toxic and unhealthy as fuck, but I just don't care. Their story and love is unique, and I'm yet to find a book that rivals theirs. 🩵🩵🩵
May 21, 2026
Wow that was tough. I loved to be able to read more about Lucas and Roman. We get to see them in more casual (as long as mafia life could be even that) setting a few months after their escape. Poor Roman, that PTSD reverted him into his “beast” form with no outlet and not able to express himself. This book is in the shorter side, but it packs a pretty powerful emotional punch. You really feel Roman struggling and how helpless Lucas feels that he can’t reach that part of Roman and help him through this mental crisis. So yeah not much happens outside this emotional internal journey, but it’s definitely worth reading.
May 25, 2026
I absolutely loved this novella. It felt so good to return to Lucas and Roman’s story and spend more time with these characters again. What I loved most was how much the story focused on Roman’s healing journey. After everything he went through in the first book, seeing him slowly find safety was so emotional and honestly all I wanted for him.
My only complaint is that I wanted more, especially one extra epilogue or something like that. I’m secretly hoping there will be another novella about these brothers someday because I’m definitely not ready to let them go yet. 🤍
3.5⭐️
My only complaint is that I wanted more, especially one extra epilogue or something like that. I’m secretly hoping there will be another novella about these brothers someday because I’m definitely not ready to let them go yet. 🤍
3.5⭐️
April 26, 2026
In loved getting back to Roman & Lucas! They met in an unconventional way but the story of them was beautiful and to get back to them and see how our Baby Roman is doing with so many life changes and his adjustment was just what was needed from these boys. The struggle is long from done but the growth is amazing! I have read all her books and I just have to say they hit perfect everytime if you love that dark side of love. Because we all know it exists
If you haven’t read her other books please do you won’t be disappointed
If you haven’t read her other books please do you won’t be disappointed
May 10, 2026
Oof, this hurt so good, I loved being back with Roman & Lucas. This little journey into their healing felt so necessary, especially for Roman.
May 2, 2026
I love Roman and Lucas and this was interesting, but I felt like nothing happened and there was almost too much sex
May 8, 2026
”And in the simplicity of it, as everything else falls away, like nothing in the world exists but me and Roman, I feel, once again, his absolute possession of me—and it feels good.”
I want to preface by saying, I love this series so much. I’ve been here since the first book was released, so getting to see more Lucas and Roman again was a delight. Honestly, this book was such great concept especially because we truly don’t usually get to see the aftermath of persons mental health suffering from a big abuse past like Roman experience. I think my only complaint from the first book was that it wasn’t long enough, like I wanted see more of Lucas and Roman after imprisonment and to see Roman get assimilated back into normal life. So, getting this novella was super nice as we got to see exactly that. Obviously, getting to also see little snippets of Quinn and Vitali was nice and now I just an urge to reread those book.
I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest and voluntary review.
I want to preface by saying, I love this series so much. I’ve been here since the first book was released, so getting to see more Lucas and Roman again was a delight. Honestly, this book was such great concept especially because we truly don’t usually get to see the aftermath of persons mental health suffering from a big abuse past like Roman experience. I think my only complaint from the first book was that it wasn’t long enough, like I wanted see more of Lucas and Roman after imprisonment and to see Roman get assimilated back into normal life. So, getting this novella was super nice as we got to see exactly that. Obviously, getting to also see little snippets of Quinn and Vitali was nice and now I just an urge to reread those book.
I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest and voluntary review.
April 27, 2026
4⭐️
Book 2.5 of the Constantine Brothers was everything that I felt was needed for Lucas and especially Roman after book 1, yet I understand why the author put it after book 2! It really addresses how difficult life is for Roman after the terrible abuse he suffered in book one.
There are some really touching scenes in this book, especially with Roman’s partner Lucas, and his brother Vitali. On top of that, we do still get some action and spice that makes this series fun.
Definitely don’t skip this novella, as it absolutely adds to the overall story and Roman’s character!
Book 2.5 of the Constantine Brothers was everything that I felt was needed for Lucas and especially Roman after book 1, yet I understand why the author put it after book 2! It really addresses how difficult life is for Roman after the terrible abuse he suffered in book one.
There are some really touching scenes in this book, especially with Roman’s partner Lucas, and his brother Vitali. On top of that, we do still get some action and spice that makes this series fun.
Definitely don’t skip this novella, as it absolutely adds to the overall story and Roman’s character!
May 2, 2026
This novella was everything! When I read Possession, the story felt unfinished. Their future felt uncertain because of how traumatised Roman was. He hadn’t resolved his issues with Vitali and he didn’t feel like he belonged.
This sequel was definitely needed to tie up loose ends. Lucas and Roman’s relationship become stronger and more stable in this book, but it’s also the case for Vitali and Roman’s relationship. It was what was missing in the previous books.
I’d love to read more about them again.
This sequel was definitely needed to tie up loose ends. Lucas and Roman’s relationship become stronger and more stable in this book, but it’s also the case for Vitali and Roman’s relationship. It was what was missing in the previous books.
I’d love to read more about them again.
May 6, 2026
It was great to get to revisit Roman and Lucas.This is the part we don't usually get to see. It's the After, and I feel like we needed to see this to see where Lucas and Roman are now. My heart broke for Roman seeing the aftermath of what his captivity has done to him and what he struggles with. Lucas has become more assertive when it comes to Roman. It was interesting to see them try and work through all that trauma. I feel like Roman is on the right path and Lucas is a steadfast partner who will help him every step of the way.
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