Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book
Rate this book

444 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 3, 2026

Loading...
Loading...

About the author

Nicole Fox

202 books5,101 followers
Nicole Fox writes smart, sexy mafia romance novels. She is a crazy cat lady in her late 30s with a coffee addiction, an overactive imagination, and a husband who somehow puts up with her impulsive need to keep buying new plants for their house.

Sign up to her mailing list and get a free book!

Sign Up Here

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
902 (58%)
4 stars
424 (27%)
3 stars
150 (9%)
2 stars
36 (2%)
1 star
18 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 134 reviews
Profile Image for couchpotata.
184 reviews2 followers
August 20, 2026
tropes: grumpy x sunshine, forced proximity, age gap, slow burn, snowed in
spice level: 🌶️🌶️

the beginning was a bit sunshine-y, some of it was leaning into cringey for me. but it really picked up around the middle. the snowed in survival situation got me hooked, added the tension between the two MCs. even the writing got so much better as the story went on.
Profile Image for Renée.
137 reviews
July 12, 2026
Ok first it starts off with mosquitoes and then a snow storm in November? November would be too cold for mosquitoes. Basic research should have been done and was not. Finished and it was not my favorite.
Profile Image for Wendy Livingstone.
21k reviews266 followers
July 12, 2026
This is the fourth book in this phenomenal series, and this is Afon and Caroline’s story.
Afon is an ex-Bratva fixer, who left that life behind and is enjoying the quiet life as a recluse in the mountains, while Caroline, is an Ivy Legue attorney, who is seeking answers to her parent’s deaths. Caroline believes Afon can give her the answers she needs, which leads her to tracking him down, and knocking herself out on his mountain. Afon is not happy Caroline is there, but she slowly breaks down the barriers around his heart.
This is a well written easy to read story, with found family, friendships, emotions, mystery, danger, suspense, intrigue, challenges, grumpy / sunshine, opposites attract, forded proximity, an age gap, humour, witty banter, trust, survival, morally gray, touch her and die, engaging and realistic secondary characters, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, twisted, and unpredictable, thrilling page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
1,792 reviews13 followers
July 8, 2026
I just woke up, snowed in at a remote cabin...

... with the grumpiest man alive...

... and there's only one bed.


I'm a Manhattan girl. My natural habitat is brunch followed by a Pilates class.

So tracking a feral, gun-toting recluse up a mountain in a blizzard?

Not my preferred way to spend an afternoon.


Knocking myself unconscious twenty feet from his cabin?

Somehow, that was worse.


Now, I'm snowed in with Afon Satyrin.

He's an ex-Bratva fixer.

Six-plus feet of flannel, scar tissue, and emotional unavailability.

He's also a billionaire, though he couldn't care less about money.


He has no interest in answering my questions.

But I didn't claw my way up this mountain to leave without the truth.


Every time I push too hard, he stalks off to chop wood like the world's grumpiest Hallmark villain...

Yet every time I'm actually in danger, he's the first one to the rescue.


He keeps telling me to go home.

His hands, however, are saying something else.


There's one bed.

The snow won't stop.

And the longer I'm trapped up here, the harder it gets to remember whether I'm supposed to be scared of him...

... or falling for him.


This contemporary dark mafia mob women's fake marriage fiction romantic suspense age-gap romance is page-turning with exceptional world-building that was in Manhattan for her/now mountain for him/her, that is engulfed by darkness, organized crime, power/wealth, violence, danger, and grit, and characters who are an alpha grumpy ex-Bratva/morally gray protector mountain man secret billionaire who is violent, dangerous, exuding power/wealth, brooding, obsessive/possessive/ a stubborn sunshine female heroine who won't let him hide from the world, who are resilient, captivating, and realisitc. Their journey is enthralling with boardroom vows, explicit romance that is consumed by steamy, sizzling passion, lust, desire, and spice, with all the feelings to leave readers breathless and begging for more, suspense that will leave readers on the edge of their seats, only one bed, snowed-in forced proximity in the mountains in a remote cabin with the world's grumpiest Hallmark villain, he's soft only for her, touch-her-and-you-know-what-happens vibe, chaos/drama, a secret baby, heartfelt emotions/emotional depth, action, adventure, and more. I recommend reading this book by an extraordinary author who knows how to captivate her readers' hearts and attention with the boardroom vows and a contemporary dark mafia mob women's fake marriage fiction romantic suspense age-gap romance that is sure to transport readers into a world that is immensely dangerous, lustful, intriguing, powerful, and unforgettable.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
1,117 reviews40 followers
July 18, 2026
5 ++ FYI: Mountain weather is very unpredictable and constantly changing for those of us who live in mountains or very close to the mountains. You can have spring or fall like temperatures and mosquitos one day and a within hours can have a blinding snow storm. I live close to Lake Tahoe where they experienced one of the most devastating loss of life last year when an unexpected blinding snowstorm killed several experienced skiers in the back country.

I would rate this book, the characters, the unique plot twist and the writing much higher if I could. I have read my share of books from this genre and expect more than the normal reader who visits the criminal underworld now and then. The number of books, from authors I have read in the past have failed to delivery the quality I expect in a well written story. I have started and stopped so many of these stories, because I knew exactly what was going to happen before it did, or the editing was terrible or the story was just "read and repeat" with no plot twist or originality. This year has been a roller coaster ride of finding well written, entertaining, well edited stories, with characters that reel the reader in from the first page to the last.

This plot was unique and mysterious with plenty of physical trauma, survival against all odds from a character that returns from the grave. The slow burn relationship between Afron and Caroline experiences peeks and valleys as Caroline's learns about her deceased parents.. It tested both character's physical strength and mental acuity throughout the book while they flee from a man from Afron's past. I loved the banter between these two characters as well as their inner thoughts that had set up housekeeping in their minds. The flatulating dog "Wolf" was a huge asset to the story and one that I just wanted to give a big sloppy kiss to.

The story itself was unique and well written, especially for readers like myself that have grown tired of "cut and paste" books that continue to be written in this genre. If you want to laugh, cry, applaud and bury yourself in a plot that stands on it's own, then give this story ago.
Profile Image for Carmen.
990 reviews
July 14, 2026
Caroline and Afron's story!!!!

This one had a different feel from the previous books, with more of a forced proximity, grumpy/sunshine vibe while still keeping the danger and intensity that comes with the world Nicole Fox created.
Caroline is used to a very different life than the one she finds herself in. She’s determined, curious, and not someone who easily backs down, even when she finds herself in a situation completely outside of her comfort zone. While chasing answers, she ends up stranded in a remote cabin with the last person she ever expected to depend on.
Afon Satyrin is a man who wants nothing to do with people. He’s a former Bratva fixer, dangerous, closed off, and perfectly content living alone away from the world. But when Caroline enters his life, she starts challenging everything he thought he wanted. What begins as an unwanted situation slowly turns into something neither of them expected.
I really enjoyed the dynamic between Caroline and Afon. Their personalities were completely different, which made their interactions entertaining. Caroline brought warmth and stubbornness into Afon’s cold, guarded world, while Afon’s protective side slowly started showing through the tough exterior.
The chemistry between them was one of my favorite parts of the book. I loved watching the walls come down and seeing two people who thought they were better off alone realize that maybe they needed each other more than they thought.
Overall, Boardroom Vows was a fun, spicy, and entertaining read. It had danger, secrets, romance, and a couple that made the story easy to get invested in. Another solid addition series, and I enjoyed seeing these characters’ stories unfold.
Profile Image for Jo Collett.
94 reviews
July 12, 2026
I've enjoyed this series so far and I enjoyed this book for the most part but I found it a bit ick that the MMC and FMC were stuck in a cabin together for a few weeks with no change of clothes and absolutely no mention of hygiene such as body washes. I mean fancy wearing the same pair of pants for 2 weeks without washing them or your lady parts and then the MMC goes down on her twice!
The one night they had to spend outdoors in sub zero temperatures with only a bit of tarp as shelter they both end up completely naked and having sex! I am pretty sure that is not physically possible without freezing to death especially when they then slept naked with only a blanket to cover them and a small fire that burnt out pretty quickly.

And how many times was Afon the MMC referred to as an old man! He was 41 years old, that's hardly old. It's not even middle age.

What I loved about the story was of course Wolf the rottweiler who in my opinion was the hero of the story. I also enjoyed Caroline's sass and sarcasm. I do like a forced proximity only one bed trope but next time please bring a spare pair of pants and some soap.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
2,793 reviews6 followers
July 27, 2026
Caroline wants answers about her parents death. Afon just wants to find peace deep in the woods. They will only find what they need from each other. But first they have hurdles to overcome. This is a great addition to the series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Tracy Kemp.
226 reviews6 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
July 2, 2026
There is something incredibly special about a romance that strips everything else away and forces two people to truly see each other. That's exactly what happens when a former assassin and a domestic violence attorney find themselves stranded together on top of a mountain for an entire week. What starts as a fight for survival slowly becomes a journey of healing, vulnerability, and undeniable love. As Afon's carefully guarded past begins to unravel and decades of buried secrets finally come to light, Caroline is faced with one impossible question: can she still choose the man behind all the darkness?

The answer had me completely invested from beginning to end.

I absolutely adored these two together. Their relationship wasn't built on manipulation, power plays, jealousy, or the usual mafia politics. Instead, it was built on something far more powerful—trust, respect, honesty, and two people who genuinely wanted to protect each other's hearts. Watching their connection grow naturally felt refreshing, especially in a world usually filled with violence and betrayal.

The week they spent isolated on the mountain was easily my favorite part of the entire book. It created this beautifully intimate atmosphere where the rest of the world simply ceased to exist. There were no family obligations, no criminal empires demanding attention, no endless interruptions—just two souls learning each other's scars, fears, hopes, and dreams while trying to survive the dangers closing in around them. Those quiet conversations, stolen moments, and growing emotional intimacy made every chapter impossible to put down. It felt like watching two broken people slowly become each other's safe place.

And then there's Afon...

This man completely stole my heart.

He's the definition of "looks like he could kill you, but is actually the biggest sweetheart alive." For someone with a past as a deadly assassin, there wasn't a single malicious bone left in his body. Beneath his intimidating reputation was a man carrying unimaginable guilt, longing for peace more than violence. He was protective without being controlling, patient without ever expecting perfection, thoughtful in all the little ways that mattered, and so unbelievably gentle with Caroline. Every act of kindness, every quiet reassurance, every moment where his softer side slipped through made me fall even harder for him. He truly became one of my favorite Nicole Fox heroes.

Caroline was equally incredible.

One thing I consistently love about this series is that the heroines never exist simply to be rescued—they're intelligent, capable women who refuse to lose themselves, and Caroline fit that mold perfectly. As a domestic violence attorney, she already possessed incredible strength and compassion, but what impressed me most was her refusal to let Afon's past define the man standing in front of her. She challenged him when he needed it, stood her ground without hesitation, and never allowed anyone else to dictate her choices. She was fearless, compassionate, and fiercely independent.

And can we please talk about how funny she was?

Her quick wit and perfectly timed sarcasm had me laughing throughout the book. The banter between her and Afon balanced the heavier emotional moments so well, making their relationship feel even more authentic. They didn't just love each other—they genuinely enjoyed being together.

Now...we need to have a serious conversation about Wolf.

This dog was the true MVP of the entire story. Every single scene he appeared in made my heart melt. Loyal, protective, endlessly lovable, and just the absolute best boy imaginable. Honestly, I think he may have stolen the spotlight more than once, and I wasn't even mad about it. Wolf deserves all the treats and all the belly rubs.

The ending was everything I wanted and more. It wrapped up Afon and Caroline's journey in such a satisfying, emotional way that I finished the book with the biggest smile on my face. After everything they'd endured, they earned every bit of their happiness, and it was so rewarding to watch it all come together.

The Boardroom series has honestly become one of my favorite mafia romance series. Nicole Fox continues to deliver unforgettable couples, emotionally layered characters, and stories that balance danger, heart, humor, and romance so effortlessly. Every book somehow raises the bar even higher.

And now...it looks like the mysterious Alexei is finally getting his story.

Say. Less.

I have been waiting for this man, and if this book is any indication of what's coming next, I am more than ready. Any excuse to stay in this world is one I'll gladly take.
Profile Image for Kim Janey.
260 reviews10 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
July 1, 2026
What happens when a former assassin and a domestic violence attorney find themselves stranded on top of a mountain together for a week? Well, quite a lot actually. As Afon's past slowly comes to light and the decades of secrets he's been carrying finally unravel, Caroline has to decide whether the man she's falling for is still the man she wants to choose.

God, I absolutely loved these two. Their relationship wasn't built on games or bratva power struggles, it was built on genuine love, trust, and two people who simply wanted the best for each other. Their week of isolation ended up being one of my favorite parts of the book. It felt like the rest of the world just disappeared and for a little while, it was just the two of them in their own little bubble. No outside noise, no distractions, just two people getting to know each other on a deeper level (while also fighting for their lives from the forces around them).

Afon was my gentle giant…I genuinely don't know how this man ended up in the world of crime because there wasn't a malicious bone in his body. Underneath everything he'd been through, he was just so incredibly kind. Protective, patient, thoughtful...he was the definition of a man whose appearance and reputation didn't match the softness he carried inside. I absolutely adored him.

And Caroline fit right in with all the amazing women Nicole has given us throughout the Boardroom series. One thing I've really loved about these books is that the FMCs never back down, and Caroline was no exception. She challenged Afon, stood her ground, and refused to let anyone tell her who she should be or how she should feel. And honestly, for someone who's a lawyer, she probably could've had a second career as a comedian because she had me laughing so much with her wittiness.

Can we also please take a moment for Wolf? This dog was the REAL MVP. Absolute good boy from start to finish and honestly...he may have stolen the entire book for me. Such a sweetheart!

That ending was absolute perfection and such a satisfying way to wrap up Afon and Caroline's story. The Boardroom series has honestly been such an exceptional addition to Nicole Fox's booklist, and I've loved every minute of it. And now...it looks like the mysterious Alexei might finally be getting his book. Oooooooh, count me IN. Any excuse to spend more time in this universe is a good one.
Profile Image for kymagirl.
7,823 reviews87 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
June 29, 2026
He hid in the mountains, but she brought the past to his door.

Caroline climbs into the Catskills chasing answers about her murdered parents, but what she finds is Afon, a scarred ex-Bratva fixer hiding from the world in a remote cabin. He wants her gone. She wants the truth. Then snow traps them together, and every locked door between them starts to crack.

Afon is gruff, dangerous, and weighed down by guilt he's carried for years. Caroline is stubborn, wounded, and far braver than she realizes. What starts as a clash of wills slowly becomes caretaking, trust, and an intimacy neither of them is prepared for.

But the past Afon buried on that mountain isn't finished with him. As old enemies close in and long-buried secrets surface, Caroline becomes more than a woman searching for answers. She becomes the reason Afon has to decide whether he's willing to stop surviving and start living.

Caroline grows from someone chasing the truth into someone ready to claim a future of her own. Afon slowly lowers the walls built from grief, guilt, and isolation, learning that love doesn't require him to carry every burden alone. They build a relationship rooted in honesty, resilience, and the choice to keep showing up for each other even when it's difficult.

A hot, grumpy sunshine, forced proximity, snowed in romantic suspense featuring a mountain man protector, age gap romance, hidden pasts, and hard-won second chances. It explores grief, trust, healing, survival, loyalty, vulnerability, chosen family, and the courage it takes to let someone see the parts of yourself you've kept locked away. It’s about a woman who refuses to stop searching for the truth, a man who learns he doesn't have to carry his pain alone, and a love built not on saving each other, but on choosing each other with their eyes open.

The Elevator Pitch: A determined woman climbs a snow-covered mountain searching for answers and finds a man who has spent twenty years hiding from his past. Trapped together by winter and hunted by enemies neither can outrun, they uncover secrets, grief, and a connection that becomes impossible to ignore. As old ghosts close in, both must decide whether love is worth risking the fragile futures they never believed they could have.

Heat Level: 🔥🔥 Hot
Profile Image for Ana .
445 reviews22 followers
July 15, 2026
Aghhhh I wanted to be it so badly 5 stars because I enjoyed it so much the banter the plot the action the twosome until they came down this mountain it was a 5 star read for sure.

It lacked the romance after they descended the mountain.
Then came the big issue I had with this freaking bronze band! It annoyed the hell out of me and was a big red flag.
The last 40% was more about him not letting go of this bronze ….and this one year twenty years ago.

It was not enough about Caroline and Afon.
Then how they got to be married was loveless after what they got through after that I thought it can’t get worse but it did and ruined the amazing first 60%.
Even when Afon wouldnt take this bronze ….off after they you know ..il give still five stars.
But the whole how he always talks about it and always when he and Caroline have important conversations like their marriage or in the cottage or the growing family he’s always bringing this freaking one year up !!
Then the photograph on the nightstand almost killed the whole book I wanted to give 1 star keep it somewhere else for gods sake totally unnecessary!
I didn’t like it at all !

It felt like Caroline was all in with her cuteness whole heart and was happy for him but Afons talk with Matvei at the cafe when Mat ask him about his marriage he answered „ it’s good“ what ? That’s it ?!He was again only comparing it to this one year.He couldn’t let go couldn’t stop mourning for 20 years
and he never will and that’s sad for Caroline actually and if she wouldn’t be that sensitive and kind and understanding this would have been a DNF for me.

I didn’t know why the author decided to make this bronze band so big because we never met the one involved with it in the book only barely
.Afon looks at his new gold band and it doesn’t feels like it belongs to him and probably never will not like the bronze one! What the he’ll Nicole Fox ?!
Afons second chance was like he’s glad he has it but the reason for it was NOT Caroline but Yelena and that’s why I doubt him a little of his reasons to love Caroline.

The first 60% 5 stars then almost 1 star
but for the entertainment it’s 3 stars.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Naughty Nightie.
1,025 reviews21 followers
July 4, 2026
I loved Afon and Caroline's story. Caroline is a lawyer specializing in DV and is on a mission to find out her father's full story surrounding her parents' deaths. She was given a letter, and she knows Afon can fill in the blanks. She knows he lives in a cabin in the mountains, but no one knows where. She manages to stumble on it, literally knocking herself out. Afon comes to her aid, but he won't tell her the story he needs to tell her. Afon lived in his cabin with his adorable, knowing dog called Wolf. He wants to start from the beginning and tell her his way. They start getting closer while stuck in the cabin during a snowstorm. But Afon can't give his all nor tell Caroline his blanks to fill in the story since he knows it will ruin her and send her away. When the storm ends, he does the only thing he can and drives her away. He can't be near her. He drives her down the mountain and dumps her at the bus station to find her own way home. But someone else has had their eye on her and takes her. Afon decides he did the wrong thing and goes back to get her, but he's too late. He manages to rescue her, putting a target on both their backs. Nicole keeps you turning the pages with the concrete Afon, as Caroline likes to call him, when he refuses to answer her questions. Will Afon and Wolf be able to keep Caroline safe now that Afon's past, which he once thought was dead, has come back to haunt him?
I recieved an arc from Booksprout for my voluntary honest review for NN Book Blog. If you love an age-gap mafia romance with lots of twists and turns you dont see coming, you will enjoy this book. Nicole has you in love with Afon, Caroline, and Wolf in this book. Will Afon ever come to his senses and do the right thing by Caroline? This was one of those what do I read now to top this read. Although this is Book Four in the Boardroom Billionaires series, it can be read as a stand-alone.
Profile Image for Jenna Lundberg.
405 reviews4 followers
July 5, 2026
❄️❤️ Lost in the Snow, Found in Each Other ❤️❄️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️

Nicole Fox keeps pulling me back into this world, and Boardroom Vows was another fantastic addition to the Boardroom Billionaires series. Between the snowed-in cabin, Bratva suspense, and the perfect grumpy/sunshine pairing, I found myself flying through this one and wondering where the story would take me next.

Caroline completely won me over. She was determined, fearless, and unintentionally hilarious. Her constant conversations with God had me laughing out loud, and I loved how she refused to let Afon hide behind the walls he'd spent years building. She brought so much light into a story filled with danger and old wounds.

Afon wasn't the man I expected him to be. After leaving the Bratva behind, he'd isolated himself from the world, convinced that was where he belonged. Beneath all the scars and emotional baggage, though, was a man who simply needed someone willing to remind him there was still life waiting beyond his past. Watching Caroline slowly break through those walls made their relationship feel incredibly rewarding.

The suspense kept the pages turning, and I loved that the story balanced action with plenty of emotional moments. Add in a snowstorm, only one bed, a lovable dog, and plenty of Bratva intrigue, and this became such an entertaining read from beginning to end. Now my biggest question is... do we finally get Alexei's story next?

Thank you to Nicole Fox and BookSprout for providing me with a gifted advanced reader copy. I am so grateful for the opportunity to read and review this story. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for LadyHibiscus.
94 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
July 1, 2026
Enjoyed book one... Loved book two... Adored book three... Was so excited for book four, and while it hit the ground running with the story... all I keep thinking about is the fact that by the mid point, both had been on the run in the wilderness for a week, without soap or toothpaste and all they've eaten is tinned beans and each other! *shudder* I'm pretty good at suspending my disbelief, but my brain kept getting stuck on that alarmingly gross detail.

I have continued high hopes for Afon; I really do love them all broody with a side order of squidgy on the inside and he is total competency porn in a husky sounding package. Caroline has a certain snark that I generally enjoy, but she feels more like the salty best friend than main character energy.

I'm about 70% in and sticking with it. The author knows how to spin a good yarn and she's weaving the tension in expertly; I'm desperate to see how the mystery backstory unfolds. Plus, it has all the markers of a solid 'touch her and die' scene incoming - my absolute favourite!

I might be scoffing humble pie by the time I reach the end, but given the upwards trajectory of the stories in this series, my hopes were high for Boardroom Vows... Sadly, this one just isn't landing for me in the way that I'd hoped.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Akhila.
7 reviews
July 4, 2026
Okay i devoured this in a day !!!! I've been waiting to read afon and Caroline story since the mention of the letter in the matvei and cass story.I wanted to know badly what's in the freaking letter .This story starts with Caroline searching for afon who only knows the story about her parents and she wants to know all of it .it's a whirlwind romance stuck in a cabin with a cute dog named wolf and enemies searching for them in the snow and 'a single bed 'ladies and gentlemen.
Afon is a very hard man with his hard past and Caroline is a sunshine that came barreling into his life .we get to see all the characters in the previous books.my man lukas who is down bad for his wife changed so much .there is no such thing as big twists in this one but it's got a suspense of afon's past and the answers that caroline has been searching for.I'm actually pretty disappointed that we don't know exact word to word of what's in the letter but we get the gist of it .I felt like after all the anticipation of the past and when we actually get to know the truth it felt rushed rather than satisfactory but hey it's a good book and I see the nicole is back babyy and I missed her mafia romances and her style of writing so much.i hope we get another book in this series ,iykyk when you read the book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Katie Murphy.
1,145 reviews106 followers
July 4, 2026
The final book in the series is here and it’s Caroline and Afon and what a tale that was.

These characters would have been introduced in Matevi & Cassandra’s and while these books are interconnected standalones I would recommend reading it if you want a bit of context on Afon and Caroline before their book.

Afon is Matevi’s uncle and has worked his life for the Don until recently where he was released from his duties and basically given his freedom and this leads him to go off grid to the mountains. Now Caroline has been left with a hole since her parents deaths and she wants more information which leads her to searching for Afon to provide her with some answers.

Afon would have known Caroline’s father quite well prior to his passing and when Caroline comes to him in search of this information he is quite hesitant to disclose it to him as the truth is quite painful so to speak but he eventually does.

When I say you could cut the tension with a spoon when it comes to these two it would be an understatement. Caroline is sassy, feisty and she’s not afraid to stand her ground. This is definitely a quality that Afon admires about her.

Like any Nicole Fox book, this story has twists and turns and great spice.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Adri.
460 reviews3 followers
July 16, 2026
I knew this was going to take me on an emotional ride.
The Glimpses we got of Afon especially at the end of Boardroom Ties was such a teaser and promised a great story.
Delivered, Delivered and Delivered again.
Not a rushed novel so make some space to enjoy it.

Afon lost his wife 20 years ago and he has been true to her even in death.
Giving his life for his nephew Matvei’s freedom. Working in Bratva Business.
15 years as a Hitman and losing almost everyone he loved made him into a very emotionally closed off personality. He retires to the Mountains and doesn't expect to come back ever again.

enter…. Caroline. Or Crash in.. Caroline.
She is there for his secrets connecting her to her past and that of her family.

But it's complicated. He is deeply involved in both her past and now her future.

I loved the banter Caroline isn't scared of bringing. Her little jabs hit the spot every time.

“ But it's clear that I'm still half-asleep when my first thought isn't Whose dog is that, but rather, Is Afon Satyrin secretly a dog shifter?”

Afon really doesn't stand a chance. And the World's most adorable Monster Doggie…. I looooove him!!! Wolf is welcome in any book any time.

Spice builds up slowly and when it hits… it detonates.
Danger is all around and the greater family makes an appearance again.

Love Love Love.
Profile Image for Heliand.
116 reviews
July 30, 2026
I wanted to give this book more stars but there were several things that held me back. First of all, it was a slow mover. Secondly, there were too many inconsistencies: How did MMC not know that his cabin was up the ridge from the bad guys? How did he not know about the entire compound up the road? How could he see the camp smoke but the camp couldn't see his smoke? They're being chased and spend days getting off the mountain in raging snow (which, by the way, wouldn't be feasible to those of us who understand and live in blizzard areas) only to get picked up by an SUV. Say, huh? Also, the characters forget they interacted. Sometimes it is through repeated text, but several times it would be along the vein of: MMC called character A, who then called character L. Then, chapters later, character L is surprised to hear from character A, who says oh MMC called me. Yes, readers know this -- because it happened already a few chapters prior. By the way, what in the heck does a boardroom have to do with any of this book? Not a dang thing. Some plot holes, some grammatical mistakes, and way too many characters who weren't properly vetted to those of us who may not have (or have forgotten that we have) read about other characters in other books. Writing was pretty good, but the plot holes were hard to sidestep.
2,000 reviews8 followers
July 5, 2026
Prepare to have your soul shattered!
I feel for Caroline who lost her parents tragically. After receiving a disturbing letter from her father through the attorney, she sets off on a seemingly easy hike in the Catskills to ask Afon about it. What Caroline discovers is that she is ill prepared for said hike, but still reaches her target. Afon finds himself off kilter having to deal with Caroline’s questions, knowing his past is responsible for her parents’ fate. Afon’s dog, Wolf plays an intermediary role between the two and gives Caroline hopes of getting Afon to fill in what’s missing from her father’s letter. Caroline has a way of wearing down Afon, or that is until his cabin is discovered and Afon dumps Caroline at the nearest town bus stop. What happens next is unexpected, and Afon is quickly pulled back into his hunting down the enemy. With Afon and Caroline on the run from his past, will Afon rejoin the fold of his old friend? Will Afon be able to terminate the threat and win Caroline back after revealing his past with her father? You have to read to find out and don’t expect to put this book down until you turn the last page. I made the mistake of reading a few chapters before bed which ended up being 3am.
Profile Image for Laura Wolff.
274 reviews4 followers
July 6, 2026
I love me some Nicole Fox! She has such a way with words that just pulls you into the story whether you plan on it or not.

This is book 4 of the Boardroom Billionaires series and oh boy was it so worth the read.

Afon and Caroline create such an impact with their relationship. I love the snarkiness she brings and his stoic attitude that eventually thaws.

He does the you shouldn’t be here thing but when he drops her off to resume her old life, his life catches up to him and snatches her from town.

This is touch her and ☠️😵 vibes, morally gray man, witty banter, hard headedness all the way around and of course off the charts steaminess for everyone. Please keep in mind this is mafia romance so there are trigger warnings that need to be heeded if you are sensitive to some materials. Kidnapping, violence, murder etc. be mindful of your mental health.

I loved this book and cannot wait to dive into the next one. This one is set in the mountains of the Catskills and it an insane journey through the wilderness and through some emotions.

This series is able to be read as a stand alone or together. If you’re looking for something new to sink your teeth in then check out Nicole Fox.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
1,017 reviews15 followers
July 4, 2026
I think this one is my favorite of the series so far! It was an adrenaline filled wild ride.
I was so happy to see Afon get his own story!! He deserved it after sacrificing his life for Matvei. You could tell deep down he was a good guy and deserved his shot at happiness.

I really liked Caroline. She was so entertaining and had hilarious quips. I loved her go with the flow attitude even when people were hunting her through the woods. I loved her bond with Wolf and how they took care of each other.

Afon was such a grumpy, surly loner but you could tell how much he cared about those that mattered. I did like getting to see those moments when he would show his softer side. I also admired his dedication and protective nature, especially when it came to Caroline and Wolf.

The story was well written and very descriptive. I felt like I was on that mountain with them and could almost feel the coldness on my skin. There was one moment where my heart was beating out of my chest and considering how action packed this story was that's saying something. I was on the edge of my seat from all the angst. I really enjoyed this one and would definitely recommend it!!
Profile Image for JP18267.
800 reviews10 followers
Review of advance copy
June 28, 2026
Caroline had me the moment she declared war against mosquitoes — same, honestly! Caroline is a woman on a mission and not just against those dreaded bloodsuckers. Afon is a true grumpy man of mystery and may have finally met his match. I was seriously rolling on the ground as she recounted her brush with death from the tree root. And there is no holding back their true feelings, their verbal battlefield was ruthless.

I was dying to know the answers to all of Caroline's questions and what made Afon suddenly go off the grid. And each piece of the puzzle only made me have more questions. The mysterious visitor, his murky past, and all the secrets had me hanging on every page. The fast-paced action was blended perfectly with the hysterical mishaps.

Oh my gosh, I can't even begin to describe how much I loved them. The witty banter, high-stakes suspense, and extremely spicy moments had me hooked from page one! This book is everything I didn't know I needed!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
1,088 reviews1 follower
July 3, 2026
I enjoyed the story.
Unexpected humor, it's funny how the heroine's inner thoughts and emotions, expressed with humor, clash with the hero's dry, dark ones, and together it works well between them.
It's suspenseful with survival, running, and fighting, all with injuries, limited resources, and inconveniences (in those conditions, some things are better avoided to prevent more inconveniences, at least irl).
Great dog who's affectionate, protective, and, I can't believe it, very good at training in a short period of time.
In this story, main characters from previous stories seemed much nicer.
It's good to see that one decides to live differently from a previous life and make less harm; others are influenced in a good way by their relationships with their cherished loved ones.

A few small inconsistencies. I have more questions about the hero's past and lawyer involvement, but if some things could be avoided, then there would be a different story.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Hannah.
110 reviews
July 16, 2026
Boardroom Vows was an enjoyable read, even if it didn’t quite hit the same high note for me as the first three books in the series. The setup had all the good stuff: grumpy ex-Bratva recluse, stubborn sunshine heroine, snowed-in cabin, one bed, and enough emotional baggage to require its own sled team.

I liked Afon and Caroline together, and the forced proximity gave their story some really sweet, vulnerable moments. That said, this one didn’t fully grab me the way the earlier books did. I was interested, I was entertained, but I wasn’t quite obsessed.

While it can technically be read as a standalone, I’d definitely recommend reading the previous books first. There’s a lot more depth and context if you already understand the world and the people orbiting it.

Still, Nicole Fox knows how to write a broody protector with a soft center, and I’ll absolutely be showing up for whatever comes next.
Profile Image for Crystal Junebug.
510 reviews
July 24, 2026
This is the fourth book in the series Boardroom Billionaires and it was a thoroughly enjoyable romance that blends emotional drama, sizzling chemistry, and family dynamics into a story that kept me turning the pages. The connection between the main characters felt authentic, and I liked watching their relationship grow as they navigated the challenges and expectations surrounding them. The mix of heartfelt moments, tension, and romance kept the story engaging without ever dragging, making it an easy book to read in one sitting. I did find myself wishing for a little more development in a few of the supporting characters, but it didn't take away from my overall enjoyment. If you're a fan of billionaire romance with strong emotional stakes, memorable characters, and a satisfying love story, this is definitely one to add to your reading list.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
630 reviews14 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
June 28, 2026
This is Book 4 in the Boardroom Billionaires series, as interconnected standalones.

I have read all the previous books in this series & really loved them.... this book felt so different... I enjoyed it, but not as much & didn't feel like it fit in with the rest of the series...

The book is told in a dual 1st person POV between Caroline & Afon. I like the premise of their story & that they found a way to make their relationship work. There was some back & forth in their relationship & the book was pretty fast paced. Afon is a mafia/mob guy... but changes around her/for her & can be a sweet guy to/for her.

Spice level: 3/5

*Dark billionaire mafia romance
*morally grey MMCs
*mafia/mob
*secret billionaire
*forced proximity
*age gap
*romantic suspense
*fake marriage
*surprise baby

Thank you to the author (Nicole Fox) & Booksprout for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Brenda Orozco.
115 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
June 28, 2026
Nicole, I can’t keep up with these amazing series you keep releasing! 🤪 After Matvei’s book, I was left wondering what the heck happened that had Caroline all worked up and wanting to talk to Afon. Afon wasn’t what I was expecting; he had a lot of skeletons in his closet that he didn’t really want to let out that’s why he wanted out of the Bratva life he was burned out. Then out of nowhere comes Caroline and literally trips into his life again. This girl was a hoot, always talking to herself, he conversation with God had me cackling, and the way she annoyed Afon was a trip. I was excited to have some sort of action in this one; it kept me on my toes. Overall, this book was really good. What I’m left wondering now is did this series end, or will we get Alexei’s next? 🤔 it’s a wait and see now.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Kristy.
501 reviews42 followers
Review of advance copy
July 1, 2026
Thankful to Brooksprout for the opportunity to read this ARC and continue my journey reading this series. Caroline goes in search for answers to her parents being murdered, what she finds is Afton. She wants the truth, but he wants her gone. Then the snow comes trapping them together and that's when the past starts coming to live. A hot, grumpy sunshine, forced proximity, snowed in romantic suspense featuring a mountain man protector, age gap romance, hidden pasts, and hard-won second chances. Think my biggest hang up with this one was a week in the forest with no showers among other things and they still have spicy times. Sorry I haven't found many things in the books I've read rather romance or my love of mystery thrillers that kinda makes my skin crawl, but this had me a little grossed out honestly. Other than that, I enjoyed reading this book.
Profile Image for Carole.
2,545 reviews17 followers
July 3, 2026
Boardroom Vows is a fourth book of the Boardroom Billionaires series and follows a grumpy former Bratva fixer Afon Satyrin and Caroline Oglethorpe who is currently traipsing through the woods trying to track him to his remote cabin.
He’d told her once after her fathers passing to contact him if she needed anything, well the time had come but she was having the devil of a time locating him.
Now It was getting dark, the weather looked to be turning, and she was starving!
Loved the story which had humor, danger, action, adventure, Bratva dynamics, intrigue, emotion, personal vulnerabilities, passion, and good writing.
Caroline gets caught up in Afon’s past when it comes looking for him and they have a lot to overcome before reaching their HEA, and was it ever hard won.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 134 reviews