Secrets

Russkaya Mafiya/Oath Keepers MC #1

by Sapphire Knight

Running scared, I’m forced to start completely over. I escape to Tennessee where no one knows who I am. I try to blend in and decide that a huge University will be the easiest way.
Tainted, scared and alone, will he find me? Will he hurt me again?
I have a secret you see. I need a savior, someone who can help me be free.
I never expected to meet Tate Masterson.
Strong, sexy and stubborn; with his alluring hazel eyes, tattoos and Russian accent.
I never had a chance; he took one look at me and decided I was his.
Tate has a secret too; the Russkaya Mafiya is in his blood.
His secret could help save me, but will Tate embrace it or destroy us?

Genres: Romance, New Adult, College, Mafia Romance, Contemporary, Abuse, Contemporary Romance

224 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 7, 2015

About the author

I'm the Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and International Bestselling Author of Secrets, Exposed, Relinquish, Corrupted, Forsaken Control, Unexpected Forfeit, Unwanted Sacrifices, Friction, Princess, Freight Train/1st Time Love, 2 Times the Bliss, 3 Times the Heat, Gangster, Daydream, Baby, Chevelle, Russian Roulette (Mafiya box set), Oath Keepers MC (MC box set), Tease (short story collection), Cherry, The Vendetti Empire (Capo dei capi Ruthless Vendetti part 1), The Vendetti Queen (Part 2), Vendetti duet, Little White Lies, Ugly Dark Truth, Sweet Surrender-Biker Chicks 2 Anthology short story supporting B.A.C.A , Corrupted Counterparts in Pink!- An Anthology supporting breast cancer research, Corrupted Revelations- in the Wild and Windy in the City Anthology to support cystic fibrosis research, Love and Obey- in the Alphas of Sin Anthology supporting PAWS who provide service animals and training to people who need them, The Main Event in the Alphas and Fairytales Anthology- to support VetSports, Viking in the Twisted Tales of Mayhem Anthology- organized personally by myself benefiting the Patriot Guard Riders, and also Blaze in the Love, Loyalty and Mayhem Anthology- benefiting Bikers Against Bullies (Over 20,000 copies sold), 2 Times the Bliss, Heathen, Bash, Bastard/Opposites Attract, The Vendetti 7, The Vendetti Coward, Mad Max, Sterling, Hunter, Hollywood, and The Vendetti Devil. 

My books all reflect on what I love to read myself. I want to venture into other genres but am taking my time. Hopefully, you'll eventually see a PNR book or something of that sort come from me.

I've hosted two book signing/author events myself, Motorcycles, Mobsters, and Mayhem MMM18 with 400+ attendees and MMM19 with 500+ attendees.

I'm a proud Texan who's crazy about football. I've always had a knack for writing, whether it is poems or stories. I originally studied psychology in college and feel that it's added to my passion for writing flawed characters. 

When I'm not in my writing cave, I'm busy playing with my three Doberman Pinschers. I love to donate to help animals and watch a good action movie. #SupportOurTroops  

Email authorsapphireknight@yahoo.com

Website
www.authorsapphireknight.com

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/AuthorSapphi...

Author Amazon page https://www.amazon.com/author/sapphir...

Fan mail
P.O. BOX 2937
Harker Heights, TX. 76548

Please find me on BookBub, Instagram or FB. I do not get on here often.

Reviews

[Sleepless Readmore · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pinned her up against a wall
because she's a masterpiece ..
4.5 #NeedMeARussian STARS



Emily and Tate ..♥



So he's a tattooed Russian mafia boss who owns a kick a*s James Bond themed club and as Emily would say "looks sexy" (I'll TAKE YOUR word for it) while driving these exotic cars? HAHA .. so anyone want to point me the direction to Tennessee because Luka is the only man I WANT TO SEE.

Yeah I would kill for you, that's right .. ►♫

I have a confession .. it's a weakness you see .. i'm an absolute sucker for guys with accents (I MEAN COME ON .. how can you resist?). Luka or Tate or мой(MINE) all suit him just fine. He's a persistent guy, definitely ALPHA MALE qualities and some too the extreme #ImNotComplaining. He's an absolute sweetheart despite the "extra curricular activities" he partakes in. The only time I was like "WOAAAH, that's a LITTLE weird, I'm going to pretend he never did that" was when he YELLED LIKE A LUNATIC OUTSIDE .. A little excessive. Other than that he was an enjoyable character .. Emily on the hand, could be infuriating. She puts up walls alright .. however there for a good reason. She had a great support system though .. speaking of I LOVE THIS GROUP. I just know that the other character will excel in their on novels. So why not the 5 stars for this one? Rushed .. unfortunately towards the ending it was a #PlotTwist and before I could wrap my head around that #Shocker it was over?!

I don't think she knows it,
but she takes my breath away when
she smiles like that .."

They say the best love is insane, yeah
I'll light your fire till my last day .. ►♫

You make me the happiest man in the world.
I will take good care of you and love you always .."

This book is seriously UNDERRATED. For a debut novel, Sapphire Knight did a fantastic job (I APPLAUD YOU). I'm so glad I stumbled across it because it is definitely re-read worthy. I HIGHLY recommend you to press that lovely green button and bump it in your TBR!

Secrets Sapphire Knight
- Sleepless, Readmore. Twitter

[MelissaB · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book is a college age romance featuring a heroine on the run from her abusive ex-boyfriend and a hero that is a boss in the mafia but going to the same college as her.

As you can tell from the two star rating, I had issues with this book. The main issues were related to the writing, it needed to be better. The story was written in first person and the inner thoughts and conversations were stilted and annoying to read. There were so many sentences that had exclamation points at the end as well. The heroine and her friends came off as pretty immature and flighty for their ages. We have to read so many of her thoughts and they are just so immature and rambling about stupid things. The hero did not feel realistic as a Mob boss to me at all. The funniest thing was that he randomly gets mad about the ex-boyfriend harassing her and shouts out to anyone who could hear that he was the Russian Mafia. What self respecting mobster yells that out in public? Also funny was that the heroine was standing right there and didn't even notice that he said he was in the mob (which she didn't know). She was not the brightest star in the sky, she seemed more interested in how hot he was and how much money he had.

So basically, this book did not work for me because of the mediocre writing, the unrealistic story and the immature characters.

[Cristina · Rating 2 out of 5]

DNF 51%

I tried...I really did...but the bad writing combined with the inconsistencies in the story and the shallow designed characters just isn't for me...

[❥ KAT ❥ Kitty Kats Crazy About Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

TITLE: Secrets
SERIES: (Russkaya Mafiya Book 1)
AUTHOR: Sapphire Knight
GENRE: Contemporary Romance
PUBLISHED: March 7th 2015
MY RATING: 4 Stars

I was gifted a copy of this direct from the author to get me out of my book funk blues..

A GIRL ON THE RUN

No one knows who I am or anything about me and that gives me a sense of safety.

I MET THE MONSTER WHEN I WAS SIXTEEN AND HE WAS SEVENTEEN

One of my most favourite genres is (Mafia) and I can not believe I've not seen, or read this already!! This is also the first time I've read anything by this author..

The only reason why I've not rated this 5 stars is because with past mafia books I've read they have had that dark gritty element to them, this is very mild to what I tend to read, romance lovers will enjoy this though..

I loved how the Russian men spoke in their native tongue and beside it, it was translated for us in English so we didn't have to go back each time to look up the translation at the beginning of the book..

"Want to play, Kpacora?"
"Depends on what exactly that means, Tate."
I lick up the side of his neck and he shivers. He makes a rumbling sound in his throat and it's so sexy.
"It means I get to feel that sweet c*nt wrapped around my c*ck, little lamb, I want to make you feel good again."

The sex between these two was soooooo freaking hot!! Very explicit in detail, steaming panty wetting hot!! Puts some of the erotic books I've read to shame!!

The connection you get with all these characters is real, the angst, the friendships. manipulation in it's rawest form, love, running from a troubled past you name it this book has it all..

Because I'm one sick puppy I would've liked more gore with it being Mafia, the grit that has you sitting on the edge of your seat kind of feeling, because that's how I see the Mafia in my mind, they are people to be feared, ruthless killers that you do not want to get on the bad side of..

I loved Tate even though some of his cave man tendencies made me want to jump in the book and hit him over the head with my cast iron frying pan I did love his panty wetting character..

This is the type of man that could steal me, own me, and eventually break me.

[♛✨Christine ♛✨]

I want this! I need this! I gottta have it!

[Kelly Emery · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was really excited to start reading this book because, come on...the cover is HOT! But as I continued to read, I was even more excited about the story!

Love, loss, fear, manipulation, passion, friendship, hate, intrigue, hope....all in one book, I couldn't put it down. Sapphire Knight wrote a terrific story about secrets; hiding them, keeping them, and finally revealing them. She made is so easy to connect with Emily; smart, independent, witty, and absolutely caring. And Tate? I never realized how sexy a dangerous man could be! I was an immediate fan of him. Not only is Tate sexy and charming, but he's also what I can only describe as an adorable, smart-mouth, and sweet prick! The back and forth of emotions between Emily and Tate was refreshing to read. This book is not your typical love-at-first-sight romance.

The connections between all the characters is fantastic! The story kept building, without becoming too complicated. I originally gave the book 4 stars. But after reading the updated version, 5-seductive stars! Before, the only reason I did not give it 5 stars was the progression between scenes was a bit choppy. One paragraph would end, and the next would start off portraying time had passed. That would be my only issue with this book, but I found it easy to look over. And now, the writing is much improved and the flow between scenes runs very smoothly!

The book ends at a good point, as it leads into the next one in the series. I'm very anxious to start the next book, and hope it focuses more on the other characters. I recommend this book to anyone who likes a great story with drama, mystery, and ultimately love!

**I received this book in exchange for a honest review.**

[Deborah · Rating 3 out of 5]

Great idea.....but

After seeing the cover and the synopsis I just had to read this book.
Emily is starting her new life, she's finally escaped her past and is looking to keep a low profile and this is fine until the first day of class when she meets the bubbly Avery, Avery turns out to be a great friend and drags Emily out of her shell, Emily meets Luka Tate Masterson and wow does he take her breath away, not only is he hot but he has the whole Russian accent thing going on, how's a girl to resist that.
Both Emily and Tate have secrets and what will happen when those secrets come out.
First let me say I absolutely loved the idea behind this and I really wanted to like it more but, yes there's always a but, firstly the writing wasn't brilliant, the conversations felt stilted and immature, now I'm well aware that I'm not the target audience for this book but my children and their friends are around this age and it just didn't feel right at all.
Also I didn't particularly like Emily and I know she's suffered horribly in the past but I just didn't buy it, she'd fly off the handle all the time, she's supposed to be worried about her past catching up with her but she can't even get round to making a single phone call to check and then she has a huge TSTL moment that I just couldn't get over.
So this book had potential but for me anyway it wasn't realised.

[Fel]

DNF @50%

Forced myself to read past the first few pages.

Unlike everyone else, I didn't like the story at all.

The characters had no depth, each of them act like the other. They don't have any defining traits.

Emily got on my nerves! First, she just met Avery. JUST MET. And suddenly they are bffs calling each other babe by the second or third meet up. Dun even get me started on how she acts with Luka or Tate or whatever the hell his name is.

Also there were several parts where Emily will say how she likes it when Luka/Tate treats her a certain way or how he always looks at her or calls her certain names and how sweet he is. But seriously, girl, you probably met the guy like a total of three times. Yet, she is acting like they have been together for ages.

Emily has a history of abuse from her previous relationship yet she is thinking about having a one night stand the first time she goes to the club with the rest.

I hate story that have events taking place but nothing is done to follow it through. For example, Emily and Luka/Tate go out for a date and all that is mentioned is the place next thing you know it they are finished. Like what is the point of setting up the date if there is no follow through. This whole book was TELLING what happened not much actions or SHOWING what was happening. In school we learn the basics of writing a good story is to SHOW not TELL.

Anyway, sorry but this book really wasn't for me. I had to control my irritation and annoyance with the characters and the story itself. The characters didn't stand out in any way they all talk the same too. Their conversations sounded so fake and forced. Like honestly, no one speaks like they do unless they are total bimbos.

[Nanci **Warning**IWasASailor⚓️MyMouthisDirty · Rating 2 out of 5]

I'm just going to get to the point. This book had potential but quickly plummeted. I was debating between ⭐️⭐️⭐️ or ⭐️⭐️. You see 2 won.

Here is the gist. Emily leaves Texas and moves to Tennessee because of a psychotic abuse ex boyfriend. She enrolls into the University, she meets Avery, who really just annoyed me. Avery introduces her to Tate (Luka).
Luka is 22, goes to the University, is extremely rich and falls head over heels for Emily at first meet. Oh and he's the Boss of the Russian Mafia. In training to be the Big Boss when Daddy steps down.

Why the 2 stars:

Tate owns businesses and like I said is the "Boss" has a ton of men under him, has more $$ then sense and yet he's going to school and has Biology with Emily??? Really!

He falls for Emily within seconds, though she plays bitch in the beginning. Never did figure out what chemistry they have but all of a sudden she gets drunk and tells him she cares for him more than she should. Instant couple.
Everyone that works for Tate calls Emily (Boss's Beauty) because that's what Tate deemed her and hey it's out of respect.

Psycho finds her (of course) and graffiti's her wall, which enrages Tate. So he runs out of her apartment. And screams at the top of his lungs I'M THE RUSSIAN MAFIA BOSS. AND YOU MESSED WITH THE WRONG GIRL BECAUSE THE MAFIA IS COMING FOR YOU! Really? Do Mob men seriously do this? Oh and they aren't even officially dating yet. After that big scream instant dating, instant love. (Hello, of course!)

Emily moves into his mansion that day so Tate can keep her safe. A few days later, they catch psycho and mafia ties come out. She has no problem he's mob because she realizes she loves him more than life. 2 weeks later and we have to meet mom and dad. Now, in Tate's home you do not meet parents until you know you're getting married. (Did I miss something?)

Here I was debating stars and wondering where the story was going because the drama was done. Well here is where I decided a definite ⭐️⭐️ heading to ⭐️. Please stop reading if you do not want anymore SPOILERS.

Leaving the parents house (with a fertility doll) because hey 2 weeks together is love and who doesn't want to have babies at 22? They get into a car crash. Tate realizes as Avery is lying in bed knocked out for 2 days that he has to marry her. She awakens and agrees and he tells her that a woman was drinking and driving and he's going to put a hit on her because she is his beauty and NO ONE touches the boss's beauty. Well guess what? Drunky who hit her turns out to be her long lost identical twin!! (Are you serious!) Yup, total shocker to Em (and reader, not in good way) who knew nothing of it. Automatically she yells at Tate for putting a hit on her sister! (How dare he not know she has an identical twin!).

Tate is so worried Emily will no longer marry him anymore because her twin sister "could have been whacked" (shed tears) don't fret she loves him and is just super excited she has her family back. (What!) oh yeah they become instant friends. No one ever brings up why she was adopted? Um how come emily got to stay with mom and grand dad but her sister didn't? They don't talk about past and a week later they are texting each other best sister ever! Really?!

It ends with Tate and Em getting married after 4 months and gives hint to a book 2 staring her BFF London. I'm a masochist more then likely I'll read book 2.

[Jos · Rating 2 out of 5]

2-2.5 Stars at best

I finished this book early this morning and I have to say as much as I looked forward to reading it, I can't help to be left feeling very disappointed. I guess my thoughts are all over the place, I loved Tate and yet, he was a bit over the top and I mean from the get-go but yet I felt a connection with him. Emily, ughhhh, she annoyed me to no end and I just couldn't warm up to her. The storyline had good potential but the execution was disappointing to me in a lot of ways. I think this series may have some potential to get better and yes, I am dying to read London's story because that storyline had me quite intrigued especially at the end:)

The writing was just sub-par, Emily was frustrating and immature and too bad because Tate was hot, sexy and had the best potential to soar if he only had a mature heroine to counter-balance him:( Ughhh, when she started with Sugar Lips, OMG, I was completely not just turned off but found myself tuning out and skimming to get to the end. Emily was a total no-go for me!

This was my first read by this author and yes, as my usual courtesy, I will definitely give her another chance and honestly I already purchased the next book and I do look forward to reading it. I just hope the writing "matures" as well as the characters! Author Sapphire Knight has the potential, I can see it and I do hope she continues to grow with her writing and her books and I wish her much success in doing that!!!!!! Sometimes a series or books from a new author improves and flourishes with time and experience and I am wishing that for her:)

[Morello Hart · Rating 5 out of 5]

When the little lamb met the sexy big bad Russian wolf...

I received this copy from Sapphire Knight in exchange for an honest review. let me just start off saying that I have a weakness for tattooed bad boys and if you add tattooed, pierced bad boys with hot accents then I consider this a bonus. Emily is a girl on the run - from her past, her jerk-face ex BF (I want to call him something else because of all the crap that he put her through but I'm not sure it's appropriate to swear on a review), let's just say he gets his comeuppance. I like Emily because she's relateable and seems like someone who can take care of herself, she leaves all her friends and life behind and wasn't expecting to meet anyone but then comes along Luka (Tate). As far as first impressions goes Sapphire had me at dimples and accent - and while one could say he's a bit controlling (not necessarily a bad thing) I think he's just as overwhelmed by his feelings about Emily and not sure what to do about it. Generally speaking I really liked their relationship - it didn't feel forced and they get their HEA which is something I especially like in stories, no cliff-hangers but there's a continuation of the story in the next story but with different characters. It's reminiscent of Her Russian Protector Boxed Set (Books 1-3). My only suggestion is that you make sure you have plenty of time to read it because once you start you won't want to stop. A great story and a excellent storyteller, I will be reading more of this author...

[Heather the Queen of (Smut)Books · Rating 1 out of 5]

If you're looking for a book with a good plot, absolutely any kind of character development, or intelligent ADULT dialogue....then this isn't for you. This is mediocre NA bullshit where everything is freaking AWESOME! and every sentence starts and ends with OMG!! And is also heavily over punctuated with exclamation points. And the big bad mafia crime boss? Yeah, he's a pussy whipped crybaby who gets teary eyed just thinking of his girl being mad at him. Not attractive, whatsoever. Real women don't like pussies, dammit. The plot devices are tired and contrived. And I felt absolutely nothing for either of the MC's or the side characters. At the end of the book, the MC's are in a accident caused by a drunk driver who miraculously just so happens to be the heroines long lost adopted identical twin sister. ERRRMAGERRRRRD! Let's be BFF's!!!!

Also if you're going to write NA, it might be smart to double check your slang in Urban Dictionary. Just saying.




AWESOMESAUCE!! <<< this word should be banned from adult erotica. This is why I hate NA. It's like a mix of YA with sex.

Warning: if unsafe sex is a trigger for you...run for the hills. No condoms are used in the writing of this book.

[Sarah Armstrong · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hot Russian Alpha, yes please!!! 4.5 Stars

Just hearing the words Accent (specifically Russian :swoon:) & Mafia & you can sign me up!!
This was Sapphire Knights debut, & I've become a fan of her stories & writing style
This is the story of Emily & Tate 'Luka'. Emily is running from her past & moves to a new town, starts attending college & meets her new best friend Avery, who introduces her to Cam & Tate. Tate, that sexy Russian alpha, is totally swoon worthy & very protective of his 'beauty'. You'll find out why they call him 'Knees'.
It's no big secret what it is that Tate does, they call him Boss for a reason. But What happens when Emily finds out who Tate really is? Will she accept it? Can Tate keep his Beauty safe when her past returns?

The story was very fast paced, but you never got lost & it flowed beautifully. I loved that their love wasn't instant, it took him a while to earn Emily's trust, but once he does It was fantastic & hot.
Loved all the secondary characters, specially London & Nikoli (book for him please!!)
Can't wait for the next book in this series.

[Heather andrews · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. Tate doesn't like the thought of others looking at what's his, "yeah, she’s with us, I came up to get you. Do you have a coat or something to cover up with?” He keeps looking at my shoulders and legs. God the stubble on his cheeks makes him look fantastic." He's a territorial man, "mine. As in, she belongs to me, you idiot,” I repeat but in English this time." I liked when he was playful, "He presses a chaste kiss to my forehead and gives me a little smack on the a** as he starts to walk to his truck." He's not bashful when it comes to what he expects , "you are my girl, in my home, yes, you are in my bed. I won’t pressure you about anything, but you will be sleeping in my bed." Just like his girl has no qualms about asking him to do things, "Can I lick it, Tate?” I keep my eyes on his straining d*** so I don’t see his expression." I can't wait to see the other characters get a book

[Emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

Keep her head down, go to school, and always....always be on the lookout. A well rehearsed mantra that Emily has been repeating since the day she ran from her home in Texas. Now starting her sophomore year in Tennessee, Emily finds herself making a friend and with that friend comes Luka "Tate" Masterson. Tate is a bit of an enigma, one moment he is sweet while the next he is bossy and frightens Emily. She promised herself she wouldn't go down that path again and walks away.

Tate doesn't know much about Emily, but she has a short fuse when he makes a suggestion. While he is trying to protect her, she sees it as being domineering. Tate knows Emily will be a big part of his life, but first he has to earn her trust and tell her who he really is.

Great book. I liked Tate, he doesn't have a slow button but he definitely tries with Emily. When he realizes she is in danger, he goes full out protective and you love it. Can't wait to read more.

[ZARIA (Sheldon Cooper lover) · Rating 1 out of 5]

[Missy's Book Obsession · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 Stars

[Shirl · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a great book... it's a set up for two series if I understand correctly. It keeps going with the Mafia or you can go right into the MC part of the story. I'm going to go with the Mafia and hopefully there's no spoilers.

This book starts with Emily starting at a new college in Tennessee away from her home state of Texas. She plans to keep a low profile because she has secrets and don't want anyone to get close so they don't get hurt.

Never really understood why Tate was in college. He has no problem showing his wealth but he too has secrets and is worried about if he has a girlfriend she could be used against him but neither of them can seem to stay away from each other.

Both of their secrets come out but can she handle what he does?

My only problem was what happened after the "accident". Too much of a coincidence and a little bit over the top for me to believe. I'll reserve judgement on that for later.

[Linathebookaddict · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

[Jax O · Rating 3 out of 5]

Mafia stories are my favorite! I have taken quite a liking to these types of stories with their gritty and raw outline that carries an unyielding and addictive romance in the undercurrent. Secrets caught my eye, because this was a Russian Mafia story that was a unique addition to the many Mafia story lines I have experienced. Sapphire Knight creates a story that definitely captures this sort of lethal and intense experience, but I was a little discouraged by a few aspects this story. Emily is a recovering victim; she has honesty been through a living hell, and I can relate and understand any reluctance in her personality. Her inquisitive nature is to be expected, but I feel that the development of these characters shows her still being very naive. From the start there are triggers present that I noticed leaving me second guessing the credibility of her character. A man like Tate with his alphaisms would be throwing some major red flags for someone with such a past. Now I am not one to say that it is not possible for such a romance, but you are guaranteed a lot more friction than I encountered here. Along this same line I was exceptionally confused to see Emily passively disregards the first couple presents left by her ex. Now I would have understood maybe her desire to have it be nothing, and trying to convince herself that she is over analyzing, but to out right not even question the coincidence of such items seems undeveloped. I felt this was very imperceptive of the character, and not likely to be very realistic in such a scenario. This alone sets the tone for the remainder of the story. I really feel that Secrets carried so much potential, and I continued to pushed through hoping this would be a rocky start that offered a hidden gem in the end. In general this really is a great start to a story, but it causes some huge mistrust for the validity of the characters. I believe this story worked more thoroughly could definitely prove to be a five star read. This author is carrying around an abundance of talent, and it shines through these pages and tells me this is new. I am absolutely hoping to see more from this author that will allow her to work some of the issues that can only be learned. I will absolutely be on board to review more from her, because I know excellence is hiding just under the surface, and I want to see it blossom.

[LaVida Brisco - One Last Page Book Blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sensational Secrets

This was a page turner from beginning to end. Emily decides to go to school out of town to get away from a complicated and dangerous relationship that almost destroyed her. Once there she meets the delectable and enigmatic Luka (Tate) who takes one look at Emily and decides that she will be his. From there you're taken on a intriguing journey full of mystery, sizzling chemistry and a alpha who will have your panties melting whenever he smiles or talk because you will picture that Russian accent in your head. There was definitely twist and turns along with some surprises that what will have you wondering what will happen to Tate and Emily once they both reveal their SECRETS. Sapphire is an excellent storyteller and I for one can't wait to see whats next in store for this wonderful cast of characters.

[Celine · Rating 2 out of 5]

A fast paced read that make the story confusing at times. Not enough background or detail and follow through.

[Beneath The Covers Blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

*received book from author in exchange for an honest review - reviewed by Kelly*

I was really excited to start reading this book because, come on...the cover is HOT! But as I continued to read, I was even more excited about the story!

Love, loss, fear, manipulation, passion, friendship, hate, intrigue, hope....all in one book, I couldn't put it down. Sapphire Knight wrote a terrific story about secrets; hiding them, keeping them, and finally revealing them. She made is so easy to connect with Emily; smart, independent, witty, and absolutely caring. And Tate? I never realized how sexy a dangerous man could be! I was an immediate fan of him. Not only is Tate sexy and charming, but he's also what I can only describe as an adorable, smart-mouth, and sweet prick! The back and forth of emotions between Emily and Tate was refreshing to read. This book is not your typical love-at-first-sight romance.

The connections between all the characters is fantastic! The story kept building, without becoming too complicated. I originally gave the book 4 stars. But after reading the updated version, 5-seductive stars! Before, the only reason I did not give it 5 stars was the progression between scenes was a bit choppy. One paragraph would end, and the next would start off portraying time had passed. That would be my only issue with this book, but I found it easy to look over. And now, the writing is much improved and the flow between scenes runs very smoothly!

The book ends at a good point, as it leads into the next one in the series. I'm very anxious to start the next book, and hope it focuses more on the other characters. I recommend this book to anyone who likes a great story with drama, mystery, and ultimately love!

[xxoabbey · Rating 4 out of 5]

When I first opened up Secrets I was expecting some hardcore Russian Mafia book, however I was pleasantly surprised that this was indeed not the fact, yeah you get some bad ass Russians but this is also a story of overcoming the past and embracing the new and unknown.

Emily is a women with a past - a terrible, unforgettable, heartbreaking past which she is trying to move on from.. start afresh. Brand new college, brand new city and brand new friends, she just wants to focus on her school work and forget about Men. That seems possible to do until Luka 'Tate' Masterson struts on to the scene with all his Russian hotness!

As their friends intertwine, Emily finds her self being drawn to Tate's protectiveness towards her and when she really is in danger - he shows her that will always protect her and keep her safe, but no matter how honest Emily might finally be about her past, Tate is still keeping secrets - secrets that might actually tear them apart in the end.

Can Emily finally confront her past? And will she be able to accept that Tate is not exactly who she thought he was? Will they as a couple be able to overcome their secrets ?

For a debut book, I think Sapphire done a Fab job - yeah there were some formatting issues, or a few things which could have been improved to help the book flow abit better - but the storyline most definitely comes out on top in my eyes.

Congratulations on your debut release, I'm excited to read more of your work. <3

[Jennifer McGurk Finn · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first book in the Russkaya Mafiya series. I have to say I am a total sucker for big, alpha, possessive Russian hotties that are in the Mafia & Luka was magnificent. Luka/Tate is a 22yr old college student, nightclub owner & 2nd in command of the Russian Mafia. Emily is 20, also a college student & is currently living in Tennessee to hide from her very abusive ex boyfriend who is in jail in Texas, where she left her life & friends behind to insure her safety. Emily goes to a bar with her new friend & they run into Luka & his friend, Cameron, the four hang out together & have a good time. Luka is very attracted to Emily because she doesn't throw herself at him like other girls do but Emily is afraid to get involved with any man after what she went through with her scumbag ex. Luka is very charming & very persistent & soon Emily can no longer resist him. HOLY SHIT, Luka is AMAZEBALLS, I absolutely love him & he is so friggin' sweet to Emily who deserves her HEA after everything she went through. This was a great book & I loved all the characters, I'm looking forward to reading more in this series. My only complaint is that my sick mind would have liked to read all the details of what Luka did to that sick fuck, Jeremy but I understand it's Romance not horror.

[Lillian Cummings · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a copy from the author Sapphire. Awesome story. Emily has ran away from an ex that has hurt badly and she just wants to start over. On her first day at Uni she meets Avery she is a force of nature and they hit it off straight away. Avery convinces her to meet up for a meal this is where she meets Luka & Cameron. Luka is smoking hot and likes what he sees when he looks at Emily. They all start hanging out together but Tate(Luka)this that he can lay claim to Emily. She ill no allow that to happen again. Tate is full on all the time because he has come to care for Emily but she does not know all his secrets. Things are going well she has her two besties London & Avery and she has Tate as well but the monster from the past will not let Emily get away. She does not want Tate to know that he is back as she doesn't want others to get hurt. But Tate is a boss in the Russian Mafia so he takes charge. The is a twist that shocked me I was like no way. I never put the book down once that is how thrilling it is. Definitely a great read for this year. Can't wait to see what the other characters are up to in the next book. Keep up the good work Sapphire

[Kimberly Treamer · Rating 5 out of 5]

4-4.5 Stars

Was an enjoyable storyline and I loved a majority of the characters! Tate was excellent in all his Russian, Mafia Boss, Alpha Male glory! The whole concept of "this is mine I can have this" that goes with his persona when it comes to Emily I find rather endearing.

I found a bit of contradiction in Emily's character... she doesn't want to talk about "the monster", doesn't want to give him her tears or any more time in her mind, but she gives him her fear. This is the ruling decision in her move to TN and she continually is looking over her shoulder since, as she is aware he probably won't be in prison long.

I would continue to say that this was not exactly what I expected, but the author admits as much at the end, so I probably shouldn't repeat...

All-in-all an entertaining read, and I am looking forward to the next installment! I have a guess on what London's secret is, but I can't wait to find out if I am right!

[Danielle · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was really fun. There were a lot of twists and turns that had me hooked.

Now, I will say that this is more of a 3.5 star book, but I didn't want to put 3, because it is really good. The writing flip flops between fantastic and a bit lacking, but I really feel that with experience, Sapphire will hone her skills and become the writer I see inside.

The characters were extremely likable and the heat factor was WOW. I definitely look forward to reading more from this author and watching her blossom.

[Brianna bribookish · Rating 5 out of 5]

I didn't think I was going to finish the book tonight. But I started falling asleep the last 15 pages or so. I absolutely loved this book!!!! I can't wait to read the others in this series and read more from Sapphire. Secrets was her 1st book, so I have no doubt her books are going to get better and better!! Now, let's admire Tate.... :) He's definitely on my top book boyfriends list! This is also my first mafia book- I don't remember ever reading a book about the mafia and wow. I loved this book! Makes me want to go to Russia and experience the culture. :P

[Kellane Ayanna Mitchener · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love, love, and loved this book!!!!!!!!!!!!

Emily and Tate, wow aka Luka. I loved london,Avery, and Elaina. I enjoyed nikolai aka Niko, Cameron, and finally Viktor. I can't wait to read about Cameron, London, and Cain aka brandon. So much love between Emily and Tate I absolutely loved this book. #buynowoneclick