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Dragons #2
Vicious Control
The mafia boss knocked on my door at midnight holding a wedding dress… And said we either get married... or I’d be dead by morning.
Gabriel Russo’s no savior.
He’s a demon in a black suit and his beauty is only matched by his ruthlessness. To him, relationships are nothing more than simple transactions.
Gabe says my family was murdered and marrying him is my only chance at survival, all because I’m somehow the key to his empire.
But if I’m so important, he’d better be prepared when I make some demands of my own.
Now we’re locked in a struggle against each other and the powerful killers intent on bringing us both down.
I’ll wear his ring and pretend to be his dutiful wife… while he burns the world down around me.
Gabe's a possessive monster, but I like the way his arms feel while they’re pulling me closer in bed…
Gabriel Russo’s no savior.
He’s a demon in a black suit and his beauty is only matched by his ruthlessness. To him, relationships are nothing more than simple transactions.
Gabe says my family was murdered and marrying him is my only chance at survival, all because I’m somehow the key to his empire.
But if I’m so important, he’d better be prepared when I make some demands of my own.
Now we’re locked in a struggle against each other and the powerful killers intent on bringing us both down.
I’ll wear his ring and pretend to be his dutiful wife… while he burns the world down around me.
Gabe's a possessive monster, but I like the way his arms feel while they’re pulling me closer in bed…
- GenresMafia Romance
370 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 19, 2026
About the author
B.B. Hamel
203 books2,580 followersI'm a long time reader, writer, and lover of Romance! Writing is my dream and my passion, and I want to share my stories with you.
I live in the Philadelphia area with my husband and two dogs.
Website: http://www.bbhamel.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/bbhamelwriter
Check out my mailing list for updates, giveaways, and more! http://bbhamel.com/signup
I live in the Philadelphia area with my husband and two dogs.
Website: http://www.bbhamel.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/bbhamelwriter
Check out my mailing list for updates, giveaways, and more! http://bbhamel.com/signup
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
April 25, 2026
Y’all… get in here. We need a family meeting.
This is Book 2 in what I am now calling the “Dragon??? Series???” by BB Hamel and I just—
What did I just read???
No seriously. I need someone to walk me through it step by step like I just woke up from a nap and missed several key life events.
Because this book?
Chaos. Confusion. Sex. Gunfire. Vibes.
And not in a good way.
📚 Plot + Vibe Dump (aka controlled chaos summary)
We meet Nika—queen of “I finally snapped.”
Her boss is a creep, she punches him (as she should), gets fired, and before she can even process her unemployment—
A RANDOM MAN SHOWS UP AT HER DOOR
WITH A WEDDING DRESS
And says “let me in.”
Absolutely not.
Enter Gabriel Russo—resident menace, chaos coordinator, and future regret.
Within TWO chapters we have:
– Drone strikes (on her apartment!!!)
– A midnight forced marriage with a suspicious priest
– Car chases
– Shootouts
And I said… okay??? We’re moving FAST. I’m seated.
And then…
The plot said: never mind.
Because after that initial chaos, it turns into a confusing mix of half-explained backstory, inconsistent motivations, random factions (??), and spice that keeps interrupting what little plot we had.
Also—IMPORTANT—if you didn’t read Book 1?
Good luck. Godspeed. May clarity find you.
Because the “Dragon” lore, the Russian connections, the betrayal arc… it’s all explained like you were definitely supposed to already know.
And even if you DID read Book 1???
Still confusing.
💀 Character Crimes Section
Gabriel Russo (MMC):
Sir… I don’t even know where to begin.
– Betrayed his own sister (already side-eyeing)
– Forced marriage for MONEY (romantic???)
– Dubious consent that was… a lot
– Calls Nika “a pair of tits with a checkbook” (JAIL. PRISON. SOLITARY.)
– Hot and cold personality like a broken thermostat
– Says he hates her… then wants her… then is mean again
Pick a personality. Any personality.
And don’t get me started on his “redemption arc” because it did not land. You cannot be THAT awful and then expect me to clap because you softened for five minutes.
No.
Nika (FMC):
Girl… stand UP.
– Punches her boss (iconic)
– Negotiates an arms deal (???)
– Stands her ground at times
But then—
– Calls herself meek
– Constantly seeks validation from a man who does not deserve eye contact
– Flip-flops between strong and unsure like the plot couldn’t decide who she was
And I’m sitting here like:
Ma’am. Google yourself. You’re that girl. Act accordingly.
The inconsistency took me out every time.
🔥 Spice Rating (13Pages Scale)
🌶️🌶️🌶️ = Okay… I See What You Were Doing
There is PLENTY of spice.
Too much, actually—because the plot kept disappearing every time things got interesting.
Optional tag: “plot disappeared during this scene”
📊 Book Rating (13Pages Scale)
⭐ = Call authorities
(…okay fine, 1.5⭐ because I respect the chaos effort)
🧨 Final Verdict (signature sass paragraph)
This book had everything—violence, betrayal, forced marriage, secret societies, high stakes—
And somehow still felt like nothing was happening.
It’s chaotic without direction, intense without depth, and emotional moments that don’t feel earned. The romance didn’t build, the characters didn’t fully connect, and the “redemption” arc for Gabriel?
Denied.
Concept? Interesting.
Execution? A mess.
Will I continue the series?
Absolutely not. I need peace.
💬 Signature Outro Line
I have questions and none of them will be answered.
This is Book 2 in what I am now calling the “Dragon??? Series???” by BB Hamel and I just—
What did I just read???
No seriously. I need someone to walk me through it step by step like I just woke up from a nap and missed several key life events.
Because this book?
Chaos. Confusion. Sex. Gunfire. Vibes.
And not in a good way.
📚 Plot + Vibe Dump (aka controlled chaos summary)
We meet Nika—queen of “I finally snapped.”
Her boss is a creep, she punches him (as she should), gets fired, and before she can even process her unemployment—
A RANDOM MAN SHOWS UP AT HER DOOR
WITH A WEDDING DRESS
And says “let me in.”
Absolutely not.
Enter Gabriel Russo—resident menace, chaos coordinator, and future regret.
Within TWO chapters we have:
– Drone strikes (on her apartment!!!)
– A midnight forced marriage with a suspicious priest
– Car chases
– Shootouts
And I said… okay??? We’re moving FAST. I’m seated.
And then…
The plot said: never mind.
Because after that initial chaos, it turns into a confusing mix of half-explained backstory, inconsistent motivations, random factions (??), and spice that keeps interrupting what little plot we had.
Also—IMPORTANT—if you didn’t read Book 1?
Good luck. Godspeed. May clarity find you.
Because the “Dragon” lore, the Russian connections, the betrayal arc… it’s all explained like you were definitely supposed to already know.
And even if you DID read Book 1???
Still confusing.
💀 Character Crimes Section
Gabriel Russo (MMC):
Sir… I don’t even know where to begin.
– Betrayed his own sister (already side-eyeing)
– Forced marriage for MONEY (romantic???)
– Dubious consent that was… a lot
– Calls Nika “a pair of tits with a checkbook” (JAIL. PRISON. SOLITARY.)
– Hot and cold personality like a broken thermostat
– Says he hates her… then wants her… then is mean again
Pick a personality. Any personality.
And don’t get me started on his “redemption arc” because it did not land. You cannot be THAT awful and then expect me to clap because you softened for five minutes.
No.
Nika (FMC):
Girl… stand UP.
– Punches her boss (iconic)
– Negotiates an arms deal (???)
– Stands her ground at times
But then—
– Calls herself meek
– Constantly seeks validation from a man who does not deserve eye contact
– Flip-flops between strong and unsure like the plot couldn’t decide who she was
And I’m sitting here like:
Ma’am. Google yourself. You’re that girl. Act accordingly.
The inconsistency took me out every time.
🔥 Spice Rating (13Pages Scale)
🌶️🌶️🌶️ = Okay… I See What You Were Doing
There is PLENTY of spice.
Too much, actually—because the plot kept disappearing every time things got interesting.
Optional tag: “plot disappeared during this scene”
📊 Book Rating (13Pages Scale)
⭐ = Call authorities
(…okay fine, 1.5⭐ because I respect the chaos effort)
🧨 Final Verdict (signature sass paragraph)
This book had everything—violence, betrayal, forced marriage, secret societies, high stakes—
And somehow still felt like nothing was happening.
It’s chaotic without direction, intense without depth, and emotional moments that don’t feel earned. The romance didn’t build, the characters didn’t fully connect, and the “redemption” arc for Gabriel?
Denied.
Concept? Interesting.
Execution? A mess.
Will I continue the series?
Absolutely not. I need peace.
💬 Signature Outro Line
I have questions and none of them will be answered.
May 14, 2026
Vicious Control is the second book in The Dragons Series. A full-length standalone with plenty of steam, darkness, and banter. Read the content warning and enjoy! A woman is forced to marry mafia boss Gabriel Russo after her family's murder, becoming locked into a dangerous power struggle while navigating their volatile relationship. This is Gabriel and Nika story which is told from a dual point of view. Captivating. Decadent. Sinful. Compelling. Irresistible. An exquisitely written story with complex individuals and a twisty storyline that captures the reader attention from the beginning and keeps you transfixed and on the edge of your seat and turning the pages with it's non-stop twists and turns, panty-melting passion, suspense, mystery, pulse-pounding drama, high-octane adventures, and heart-stopping emotions.
Russian mafia boss Gabriel Russo sole desire and deam is to become a Dragon and when Nika parents gets kill unbeknowing to her, it puts a target on her back. Gabriel sees an opportunity where he could use it to his advantage. He knocks on her door at midnight holding a wedding dress and told her that they either get married or she would be dead by morning. It would seems to the outside world that Gabriel Russo is a savior but he's no savior. He's a demon in a black suit and his beauty is only matched by his ruthlessness. And to him relationships are nothing more than simple transactions. He told her that her family is dead and marrying him is her only chance of survival, all because she's somehow the key to his empire.
Veronika a.k.a. Nika Kiselyov is the daughter of a powerful and wealthy Russian Bratva pakhan who Gabe killed for power to become of the Dragons. Although he tells Nika that she must marry him for protection he as a hidden agenda for his reasons in marrying her. He needs money to help him advance his agenda and Nika could help him with this. Nika father had transferred all of his assets into her name and she's now a very wealthy woman. She eventually marry him against her suspicion after her apartment was almost blown to smithereen. Nika told him that if she were so important he would better be prepared when she makes some demands of her own. And what started out as a forced marriage and a means to an end with their fake life soon turns into something much more. And when passion ignites they succumb to their attraction.
But Nika eventually found out that she was his bank to get what he wanted to get into the Dragons. But now they were locked into a struggle against each other and the powerful killers intent on bringing both of them down. They're lots of action, violence, enemies, danger, lies, angst, bloodshed, attacks, threats, betrayal, backstabbing, double-cross, treachery, spice, darkness, madness, and love. Gabe must win the Dragon seat in order to stop the danger from coming at them. A fast paced, thrilling and dark story. Did Gabe with the fight and become the next Dragon? Will he tell her what he did to her father? Did they get their HEA?
I received an advanced copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Russian mafia boss Gabriel Russo sole desire and deam is to become a Dragon and when Nika parents gets kill unbeknowing to her, it puts a target on her back. Gabriel sees an opportunity where he could use it to his advantage. He knocks on her door at midnight holding a wedding dress and told her that they either get married or she would be dead by morning. It would seems to the outside world that Gabriel Russo is a savior but he's no savior. He's a demon in a black suit and his beauty is only matched by his ruthlessness. And to him relationships are nothing more than simple transactions. He told her that her family is dead and marrying him is her only chance of survival, all because she's somehow the key to his empire.
Veronika a.k.a. Nika Kiselyov is the daughter of a powerful and wealthy Russian Bratva pakhan who Gabe killed for power to become of the Dragons. Although he tells Nika that she must marry him for protection he as a hidden agenda for his reasons in marrying her. He needs money to help him advance his agenda and Nika could help him with this. Nika father had transferred all of his assets into her name and she's now a very wealthy woman. She eventually marry him against her suspicion after her apartment was almost blown to smithereen. Nika told him that if she were so important he would better be prepared when she makes some demands of her own. And what started out as a forced marriage and a means to an end with their fake life soon turns into something much more. And when passion ignites they succumb to their attraction.
But Nika eventually found out that she was his bank to get what he wanted to get into the Dragons. But now they were locked into a struggle against each other and the powerful killers intent on bringing both of them down. They're lots of action, violence, enemies, danger, lies, angst, bloodshed, attacks, threats, betrayal, backstabbing, double-cross, treachery, spice, darkness, madness, and love. Gabe must win the Dragon seat in order to stop the danger from coming at them. A fast paced, thrilling and dark story. Did Gabe with the fight and become the next Dragon? Will he tell her what he did to her father? Did they get their HEA?
I received an advanced copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 23, 2026
VICIOUS CONTROL is the second instalment in BB Hamel’s contemporary, adult DARK MAFIA ROMANCE series, set in the author’s CRUEL SURPRISE world. This is Bratva Pakhan Gabriel Russo, and Veronika ‘Nika’ Kiselyov’s story line. VICIOUS CONTROL can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary.
NOTE: Due to the nature of the story line premise, there may be triggers for more sensitive readers.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Gabriel and Nika) VICIOUS CONTROL focuses on the protection of our story line heroine. Veronika ‘Nika’ Kiselyov never met her father or her mother but her father’s Bratva empire and his seat as a Dragon, one of the most powerful men in the world is open for ascension, and the arrival of Pakhan Gabriel Russo leads Nika to believe all is not right in her world. In an effort to protect our heroine, Gabriel demands Nika’s hand in marriage but the marriage is more beneficial to Gabriel than Nika could have ever imagined. With a target on their backs, Nika and Gabriel go on the run, only to come face to face not only with Nika’s past, but a determined number of wanna-be Dragons who take at our story line couple.
The world building is fast and furious. The author pulls the reader into the dangerous world of power and control, underworld crime, and the dysfunctional family dynamics of the people in charge.
The relationship between Nika and Gabriel begins as protection and a forced marriage of convenience. Nika has been target by her father’s enemies, and Gabriel claims he is willing to marry her to protect her life but all is not as it appears to be.As Gabriel prepares to battle for the throne, Nika refuses to stand by and watch the man with whom she is falling in love, place his life in the direct line of fire. The $ex scenes are provocative and passionate.
The secondary and supporting characters are often questionable yet powerful. We are introduced to Gabriel’s right hand man Daniel, Nika’s aunt Yelena as well as several mob bosses, and the return of Massimo ‘Mass’ Cardone, his wife, Gabriel’s sister Allie Russo, and Massimo’s second in command Lucy. The requisite evil has many faces.
VICIOUS CONTROL is a story of secrets and lies, power and control, betrayal and vengeance, dysfunctional family dynamics, acceptance and love. The character driven premise is dramatic, dark and emotional; the romance is challenging yet seductive; the characters are determined, desperate and dynamic.
copy supplied for review
NOTE: Due to the nature of the story line premise, there may be triggers for more sensitive readers.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Gabriel and Nika) VICIOUS CONTROL focuses on the protection of our story line heroine. Veronika ‘Nika’ Kiselyov never met her father or her mother but her father’s Bratva empire and his seat as a Dragon, one of the most powerful men in the world is open for ascension, and the arrival of Pakhan Gabriel Russo leads Nika to believe all is not right in her world. In an effort to protect our heroine, Gabriel demands Nika’s hand in marriage but the marriage is more beneficial to Gabriel than Nika could have ever imagined. With a target on their backs, Nika and Gabriel go on the run, only to come face to face not only with Nika’s past, but a determined number of wanna-be Dragons who take at our story line couple.
The world building is fast and furious. The author pulls the reader into the dangerous world of power and control, underworld crime, and the dysfunctional family dynamics of the people in charge.
The relationship between Nika and Gabriel begins as protection and a forced marriage of convenience. Nika has been target by her father’s enemies, and Gabriel claims he is willing to marry her to protect her life but all is not as it appears to be.As Gabriel prepares to battle for the throne, Nika refuses to stand by and watch the man with whom she is falling in love, place his life in the direct line of fire. The $ex scenes are provocative and passionate.
The secondary and supporting characters are often questionable yet powerful. We are introduced to Gabriel’s right hand man Daniel, Nika’s aunt Yelena as well as several mob bosses, and the return of Massimo ‘Mass’ Cardone, his wife, Gabriel’s sister Allie Russo, and Massimo’s second in command Lucy. The requisite evil has many faces.
VICIOUS CONTROL is a story of secrets and lies, power and control, betrayal and vengeance, dysfunctional family dynamics, acceptance and love. The character driven premise is dramatic, dark and emotional; the romance is challenging yet seductive; the characters are determined, desperate and dynamic.
copy supplied for review
April 20, 2026
When Plans Change, Just Make New Ones -
Nika was drowning her sorrows after getting fired when she heard a knock on her door and her decision to open the door led to the beginning of a lifetime changing adventure filled with danger, a marriage, discovering secrets about her life and ultimately gaining the confidence that had evaded her for years. Gabe on the other hand had plans that involved getting married to Nika, but all his plans changed after everything went awry.
The last thing Gabe expected was to find out that his closest soldiers close had betrayed him, which he swiftly dealt with them, but what really shook him to the core was his unplanned growing attraction for Nika and the fact that she discovered a secret he had been keeping from her. Fortunately, Gabe and Nika were able to resolve their conflict' which strengthened their relationship, as he continued to navigate the obstacles placed in his path to achieving his ultimate goal.
Even though everyone told Gabe being with Nika would distract him, he realised that she was the one who gave him the strength and conviction to fight for what he wanted. Luckily, when Gabe and Nika’s relationship was tested, he proved himself by swiftly dealing with the situation and having her support his actions confirmed to him he had made the right decision.
Nika may have been oblivious to the world Gabe lived in, but she quickly found her stride and took her rightful position by his side, so they could build their future together. From the sizzling hot attraction from the moment they met, through all their ups and downs to them finally getting a happily ever after, this story was truly captivating and made it difficult for me to take a break until I finished reading the book. If you are looking for your next amazing reading adventure, then look no further than this book.
I received a free review copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Nika was drowning her sorrows after getting fired when she heard a knock on her door and her decision to open the door led to the beginning of a lifetime changing adventure filled with danger, a marriage, discovering secrets about her life and ultimately gaining the confidence that had evaded her for years. Gabe on the other hand had plans that involved getting married to Nika, but all his plans changed after everything went awry.
The last thing Gabe expected was to find out that his closest soldiers close had betrayed him, which he swiftly dealt with them, but what really shook him to the core was his unplanned growing attraction for Nika and the fact that she discovered a secret he had been keeping from her. Fortunately, Gabe and Nika were able to resolve their conflict' which strengthened their relationship, as he continued to navigate the obstacles placed in his path to achieving his ultimate goal.
Even though everyone told Gabe being with Nika would distract him, he realised that she was the one who gave him the strength and conviction to fight for what he wanted. Luckily, when Gabe and Nika’s relationship was tested, he proved himself by swiftly dealing with the situation and having her support his actions confirmed to him he had made the right decision.
Nika may have been oblivious to the world Gabe lived in, but she quickly found her stride and took her rightful position by his side, so they could build their future together. From the sizzling hot attraction from the moment they met, through all their ups and downs to them finally getting a happily ever after, this story was truly captivating and made it difficult for me to take a break until I finished reading the book. If you are looking for your next amazing reading adventure, then look no further than this book.
I received a free review copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 23, 2026
Nika is fired from her job after her boss gropes her and she punches him for his efforts. She is at home drinking her woes away. Her neighbors, right on time, start their music blaring at 10 pm. She gets someone knocking at her door, and she yells out that it's not her, it's the neighbors. But they are persistent, so she opens the door to find a stranger (Gabe) there, dressed in a suit, holding a wedding dress. She tries telling him he has the wrong address. He tells her he doesn't, then pushes his way in to explain why he is there. Next thing she knows, all hell breaks loose, and she is escaping with Gabe to save their lives. When they find safety, Gabe explains he is there to marry her since her father, whom she knows nothing about, has died, and she is his sole heir. Gabe tries to get Nika to sign an agreement, but luckily, she reads it and decides against it. Gabe is trying to take advantage of her inheritance and use her as his bank in his quest. Fortunately, Nika has her wits about her and makes sure she is in charge of her money. Gabe wants to take over as the Dragon, but finds his life and Nikas in danger from his own men betraying him. Will Gabe be able to keep himself and Nika safe in his quest?
I recieved an arc from Booksprout for my voluntary honest review for NN Book Blog. If you love a forced mafia marriage fraught with danger, angst, and forces after the couple, then you will enjoy this book.
I recieved an arc from Booksprout for my voluntary honest review for NN Book Blog. If you love a forced mafia marriage fraught with danger, angst, and forces after the couple, then you will enjoy this book.
April 30, 2026
I don’t know where the title of this book came from because it’s so generic, but…
Nika was raised by a tough, eccentric Russian auntie in L.A. and her father is a shadowy Russian figure whom Nika doesn’t remember. Gabe bursts into her life and has a Terminator 2 moment- she must go with him if she wants to stay alive. One bargain later, they are speedily married.
Gabe is aiming to be one of five shadow figures known as the Dragons, who are the ultimate kings of all organized crime in the world. I loved that. Very, very cool. It’s not a profession which has a lot of longevity, but hey, fiction, and it’s not really the reader’s problem what happens to the characters after the end of the book.
I liked that Gabe didn’t plan on having feelings for Nika but couldn’t help it. I don’t know why it struck me as so romantic, but there it is. I did feel the romance aspect was very strong in this story, but the story did not skimp on plot.
Overall, I enjoyed reading this book very much.
Cat’s Stats
Heat- explicit
Bechdel test- passed
Safety? No cheating
Triggers- there’s an excellent trigger warning at the beginning of the book.
Main tropes- Marriage of Convenience, He Ain’t Heavy- He’s My Bratva.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Nika was raised by a tough, eccentric Russian auntie in L.A. and her father is a shadowy Russian figure whom Nika doesn’t remember. Gabe bursts into her life and has a Terminator 2 moment- she must go with him if she wants to stay alive. One bargain later, they are speedily married.
Gabe is aiming to be one of five shadow figures known as the Dragons, who are the ultimate kings of all organized crime in the world. I loved that. Very, very cool. It’s not a profession which has a lot of longevity, but hey, fiction, and it’s not really the reader’s problem what happens to the characters after the end of the book.
I liked that Gabe didn’t plan on having feelings for Nika but couldn’t help it. I don’t know why it struck me as so romantic, but there it is. I did feel the romance aspect was very strong in this story, but the story did not skimp on plot.
Overall, I enjoyed reading this book very much.
Cat’s Stats
Heat- explicit
Bechdel test- passed
Safety? No cheating
Triggers- there’s an excellent trigger warning at the beginning of the book.
Main tropes- Marriage of Convenience, He Ain’t Heavy- He’s My Bratva.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 27, 2026
Vicious Control is a suspenseful standalone. This is Veronika and Gabe's story.
Veronika is startled one night when a man bangs on her door. She has been drinking and is upset since she just lost her job. When she answers the door she meets Gabriel. He informs her they have to get married for him to save her. He even has the wedding dress with him. After that her apartment is being fired at so they escape together. Gabe tells Veronika that her father has died. She never knew him. She is the sole heir to his empire. Gabe wants her to sign an agreement but she refuses. Gabe wants her inheritance. Veronika is too smart for that. Little does Gabe know that his life and Veronika's life are in danger by people who have betrayed him.
I loved how Veronika was so strong even after all she had been through. She was a smart person. I love how Gabe saw her for the person she was. He did not expect to feel that way about her. Their story is filled with suspense. I look forward to the next one from this talented author.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Veronika is startled one night when a man bangs on her door. She has been drinking and is upset since she just lost her job. When she answers the door she meets Gabriel. He informs her they have to get married for him to save her. He even has the wedding dress with him. After that her apartment is being fired at so they escape together. Gabe tells Veronika that her father has died. She never knew him. She is the sole heir to his empire. Gabe wants her to sign an agreement but she refuses. Gabe wants her inheritance. Veronika is too smart for that. Little does Gabe know that his life and Veronika's life are in danger by people who have betrayed him.
I loved how Veronika was so strong even after all she had been through. She was a smart person. I love how Gabe saw her for the person she was. He did not expect to feel that way about her. Their story is filled with suspense. I look forward to the next one from this talented author.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 24, 2026
Gripping Dark Mafia Romance
Veronika Kiselyov marries Gabriel Russo, a total stranger, purely to save her life. He’s really good-looking, but the kind of man who survives a gunfight and an explosion with not much more than a deep sigh and a smile. To him, she is an endless supply of money and a means to become the Dragon. Gabe soon learns Nika is not who he expected. She is young, beautiful and has a backbone hidden underneath a soft, princess facade. She does not fit nicely into his categories. He feels something stir in his heart when he is near her. A feeling he has been running from for years. That is dangerous. You cannot hurt a man who does not care about people. You cannot use them against him. B.B. Hamel is a star at writing dark mafia fake marriage romances. Nika and Gabe’s romance is spicy and emotional, but at the same time full of danger, violence and suspense. Definitely a gripping story to keep the pages turns.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Veronika Kiselyov marries Gabriel Russo, a total stranger, purely to save her life. He’s really good-looking, but the kind of man who survives a gunfight and an explosion with not much more than a deep sigh and a smile. To him, she is an endless supply of money and a means to become the Dragon. Gabe soon learns Nika is not who he expected. She is young, beautiful and has a backbone hidden underneath a soft, princess facade. She does not fit nicely into his categories. He feels something stir in his heart when he is near her. A feeling he has been running from for years. That is dangerous. You cannot hurt a man who does not care about people. You cannot use them against him. B.B. Hamel is a star at writing dark mafia fake marriage romances. Nika and Gabe’s romance is spicy and emotional, but at the same time full of danger, violence and suspense. Definitely a gripping story to keep the pages turns.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 30, 2026
Nika just lost her job even though her boss was inappropriate with her and wallowing then someone shows up with a wedding dress at midnight. She never thought wedding proposal happening while drone attacks are happening around her.
story moves quickly as she is leaving her apartment and getting married to handsome stranger Gabriel Russo. She doesn't know anything about him but circumstances dictates and she just marries him and he spills about her mafia family. All of sudden she is married and her father left all of his fortune to her. Also Gabe wants her to support him to become a dragon.
There is so much going on and confusing at first. Gabe is goal is to become a dragon so he can control and protect the ones he love and in order to do that he'll need convince Nika to support his goal and Nika doesn't give in easily as he thinks and she is much stronger than he thought.
Nika seems timid and shy at the beginning but she becomes a queen.
It is fast paced and little bonkers mafia romance.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
story moves quickly as she is leaving her apartment and getting married to handsome stranger Gabriel Russo. She doesn't know anything about him but circumstances dictates and she just marries him and he spills about her mafia family. All of sudden she is married and her father left all of his fortune to her. Also Gabe wants her to support him to become a dragon.
There is so much going on and confusing at first. Gabe is goal is to become a dragon so he can control and protect the ones he love and in order to do that he'll need convince Nika to support his goal and Nika doesn't give in easily as he thinks and she is much stronger than he thought.
Nika seems timid and shy at the beginning but she becomes a queen.
It is fast paced and little bonkers mafia romance.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 22, 2026
Veronika is having a bad day. After years of putting up with her pervimg boss. He pulls the one stunt she couldn’t ignore. So she had to punch him in the nose. Now she’s fired and sulking in her sad apartment. There is a knock at the door. When she finally opens it there is a gorgeous guy holding a wedding dress. He tries to explain he was sent by her aunt to save her. She is skeptical until her apartment get blown up by a drone missal..Apparently there are several people after her because her father, a Bratva Pakhan, is dead. All of his assets are in her name. And we are off to the races. She has to marry Gabe for his protection. But she figures out that she is the bank account for his quest to be a Dragon, a mafia kingpin of all the kingpins. They basically run the world. But the attraction between them is off the charts. There are many plot twists. So much danger. This a fast paced story that was hard to put down. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
April 23, 2026
An unbelievable story of fate and resilience!
I was hooked from the first chapter and couldn’t put this book down until I turned the last page! Nika is trying to regroup after getting fired at work, but her world as she knows it is about to get a whole lot more complicated when Gabe knocks on her door. After Gabe convinces Nika that he knows her aunt, all hell breaks loose in her apartment and they barely make it out in time. Gabe never wants to marry, yet his protective instincts of Nika intrude on his mind and he suddenly finds himself caring for someone. Will this be a detriment or bring him back to life? As the two avoid traps that they keep running in to, Nika’s cousin reveals a secret that Gabe didn’t want revealed. Where does this leave them? You have to read to find out and the plot twists ramp up the tension!
I was hooked from the first chapter and couldn’t put this book down until I turned the last page! Nika is trying to regroup after getting fired at work, but her world as she knows it is about to get a whole lot more complicated when Gabe knocks on her door. After Gabe convinces Nika that he knows her aunt, all hell breaks loose in her apartment and they barely make it out in time. Gabe never wants to marry, yet his protective instincts of Nika intrude on his mind and he suddenly finds himself caring for someone. Will this be a detriment or bring him back to life? As the two avoid traps that they keep running in to, Nika’s cousin reveals a secret that Gabe didn’t want revealed. Where does this leave them? You have to read to find out and the plot twists ramp up the tension!
April 23, 2026
If you like action packed twisted love stories then this book hits all the marks. It deals with sexual harassment in the workplace, a forced marriage, violence and so much more. It is an organized crime storyline with everything that entails. The best part is the hero, Gabe , could be considered a well dressed psychopath. His behavior is crazy violent at best but Nika is so accepting of him. He shows up at Nika’s apartment with a wedding dress telling her if she wants to live she has to marry him, a stranger. I loved this book. It is so action packed and the chemistry between Nika and Gabe is explosive. She finds out about her family . The ending is perfect.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 25, 2026
Nika has always had a feeling that her life held some secrets because her father and mother have been out of her life for as long as she can remember. Her Aunt Yelena has been the only constant force in her life, but periodically strange men would show up to "check on her" and have her sign some papers. One night, Gabe a handsome man knocks on her door and says she needs to come with him because her life is in danger and then her apartment explodes. The story is full of ups and downs and starts as protection and a forced marriage into a strong partnership between the two and the sex scenes are definitely a plus to read,.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 30, 2026
Good!
Nika just lost her job for standing up for her self,home thinking what she could do next when she gets a very loud knock at her door.Gabe is at the door holding a wedding dress and he tells her she needs to leave with him,she isn't safe and her family isn't either,she doesn't trust him but he pulls out a necklace which belong to her aunt. Then he notice a red dot on her and next her place goes up in flames.This story isn't lacking action, there is plenty of that,lies ,half truths, jealousy. Gabe may of thought Nika was easy and told what to do,but she was smart and when she found out she was rich and what Gabe kept from her,he soon realize she wasn't just money bags but money bags with a brain and feelings!
Nika just lost her job for standing up for her self,home thinking what she could do next when she gets a very loud knock at her door.Gabe is at the door holding a wedding dress and he tells her she needs to leave with him,she isn't safe and her family isn't either,she doesn't trust him but he pulls out a necklace which belong to her aunt. Then he notice a red dot on her and next her place goes up in flames.This story isn't lacking action, there is plenty of that,lies ,half truths, jealousy. Gabe may of thought Nika was easy and told what to do,but she was smart and when she found out she was rich and what Gabe kept from her,he soon realize she wasn't just money bags but money bags with a brain and feelings!
April 23, 2026
I think these Dragons are quickly becoming my favorite B.B. Hamel book baddies.
Those deliciously dark men and their chosen ones take the word intense to a whole new level.
I. LOVE. IT!
Gabe and Nika's story feels a bit more light hearted than Massimo and Allie's (first book) but the heat level between those two and their passion and their love ... All this will draw you in and not let you go until the very last page.
I love how in every single B.B. Hamel couple both people just perfectly complements each other.
Each book is an absolute thrill ride and pure joy.
If you read this, this is your sign to start reading these books!
Those deliciously dark men and their chosen ones take the word intense to a whole new level.
I. LOVE. IT!
Gabe and Nika's story feels a bit more light hearted than Massimo and Allie's (first book) but the heat level between those two and their passion and their love ... All this will draw you in and not let you go until the very last page.
I love how in every single B.B. Hamel couple both people just perfectly complements each other.
Each book is an absolute thrill ride and pure joy.
If you read this, this is your sign to start reading these books!
May 5, 2026
Dragons book 2 (reading book 1 helps with the interconnected story but not essential).
I love me some BB Hamel mafia romance, and this one hit the spot once again. This was a wild, unhinged roller-coaster ride. I felt like I was thrown into a high stakes, sexy mafia action movie. I was thoroughly entertained.
Gabe is absolutely the hot psycho anti-hero here.
Nika is confident at times hot mess express. Together, their hate fueled verbal sparring and intense chemistry had me completely engaged.
Tropes:
Mafia
Fake marriage
Secret society
Revenge
Enemies-to-lovers
Possesive MMC
Dual POV
Check TW
I love me some BB Hamel mafia romance, and this one hit the spot once again. This was a wild, unhinged roller-coaster ride. I felt like I was thrown into a high stakes, sexy mafia action movie. I was thoroughly entertained.
Gabe is absolutely the hot psycho anti-hero here.
Nika is confident at times hot mess express. Together, their hate fueled verbal sparring and intense chemistry had me completely engaged.
Tropes:
Mafia
Fake marriage
Secret society
Revenge
Enemies-to-lovers
Possesive MMC
Dual POV
Check TW
April 23, 2026
In Vicious Control by BB Hamel, Veronika Kiselyov’s life implodes when Gabe Russo arrives at her door with a wedding dress and a warning that she is being targeted. A sudden drone attack forces a brutal escape and locks her into a forced marriage built on protection, leverage, and secrets she never asked for. Pulled into a hidden inheritance war and a ruthless fight for the next Dragon, Nika refuses to be controlled while Gabe tightens his grip to keep her alive. Betrayal, shifting loyalties, and escalating tension turn survival and desire into the same dangerous game.
April 23, 2026
4.5 Stars! Nika has always been submissive, but when Gabe Russo enters her life all that changes. He tells her that in order to survive she must marry him that night. She doesn't know what to do except when a drone shoots what seems like a missile into her apartment and burns everything up, she thinks she needs to believe him. That is the start of this action-packed mafia romance with two pretty stubborn main characters and a story line that keeps you reading to the end.
I voluntarily wrote this review from reading an advanced copy of this book.
I voluntarily wrote this review from reading an advanced copy of this book.
April 24, 2026
Gabriel is determined to become a Dragon. There is a seat open and he wants it. Only thing is he has a lot of competition and very little money to finance his war. What he needs is a very rich wife. Enter Nika who has tons of money but doesn't know it. His rivals want to kill her and only Gabriel can protect her by marrying her. But she's definitely not the meek obedient little wife he expected. She turns out to be quite his match! Very good read with interesting characters and some humor as well as a lot of violence.
May 7, 2026
Gabriel/Gabe and Nika's dark Mafia romance is an action packed page turner. After losing her job, Nika's life changes forever when Gabe shows up with a life changing proposal. This dark romance is filled with danger, suspense, betrayals, steam, and unexpected twists that make this a great read. The writing is well done, the characters are well developed, and they have intense chemistry. Vicious Control is book two and an action packed addition to The Dragon series. I look forward to reading more books in this series. I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book.
April 24, 2026
This was amazing. Nika and Gabe were fire. Enemies to lovers hands down. This was filled with action, chaos, emotions, and so much more. Gabe stood at her door with a wedding dress and told her they either got married or she’d be dead by the next day. Someone was targeting her, and he was trying to keep her safe. The tension between these two was thick. The push and pull, hot. And the spice was explosive. I devoured this one. It was so good.
April 25, 2026
Nika and Gabriel’s start was explosive to say the least. Nika has had a bad day when she answers her door to find Gabriel holding a wedding dress. He says he is here to keep her safe but he has a hidden agenda. There is a lot of on the edge of your seat moments, lies, betrayals, danger, but amidst this we have a fake marriage that becomes so much more. Loved every moment of their love journey.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 4, 2026
Loud banging leads to a raging fire
Vicious Control is the second book in The Dragons series by B.B. Hamel. This is a broody, dark, sexy, naughty, and action packed story that is a thrilling read. This story is about Nika and Gabe, and it starts with a loud bang and it just keeps getting louder the whole way through. There is so much to love about these two as they banter, fight, love, and more.
Vicious Control is the second book in The Dragons series by B.B. Hamel. This is a broody, dark, sexy, naughty, and action packed story that is a thrilling read. This story is about Nika and Gabe, and it starts with a loud bang and it just keeps getting louder the whole way through. There is so much to love about these two as they banter, fight, love, and more.
May 12, 2026
Rollercoaster Ride of a Mafia Romance!!
Marry or die. Someone is actively trying to kill Nika. The father she never met is dead, and now her life is on the line. Gabe is willing to marry her to protect her and save her life. Powerful men called dragons, politics, scintillating scenes, and everything one comes to love and expect from Ms. Hamel. Pure entertainment.
***** I am voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book *****
Marry or die. Someone is actively trying to kill Nika. The father she never met is dead, and now her life is on the line. Gabe is willing to marry her to protect her and save her life. Powerful men called dragons, politics, scintillating scenes, and everything one comes to love and expect from Ms. Hamel. Pure entertainment.
***** I am voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book *****
May 14, 2026
Gabe had grown up in the criminal world but its not until his sister Allie is kidnapped by her babys father and one night stand, Mass, that he learns more about the Dragons and their roles and now the position his grandfather held is vacant and he wants it. By aligning with a late rivals men he needs an alliance and hes already chosen who he will marry! Nika but will she be his willing bride? Well written the story and characters draw you in with steamy desires drama action and more.
April 23, 2026
Nika is an innocent at the start of this book but soon becomes a Dragon’s daughter with the help of Gabe. A fast paced story full of great dialogue and banter but also a lot of gruesome scenes. Yelena was the one constant in Nika’s life and was a great character as was Daniel. A little less cohesive than some of Ms Hamel’s other stories but still enjoyable.
April 26, 2026
I love the way this author always "pops" me right in to her stories. No slow burn, just "boom" and I'm invested! Handsome Gabe is pounding on Nika's door. He's carrying a wedding dress. He says her family has been killed; he needs to save her. Its a rollercoaster ride from there. Lots of banter. Lots of steam. Violence. Tension. HEA.
April 27, 2026
3.75
Was heading for a 4 star but I felt the ending let it down. I didn’t buy into the ’end game’ that got him the Dragon status. Didn’t seem to work out.
Some annoying traits like not making it clear who’s talking. Sometimes had to wait for a conversation to be completed, some many sentences later, before working your way back and working out who said what.
Was heading for a 4 star but I felt the ending let it down. I didn’t buy into the ’end game’ that got him the Dragon status. Didn’t seem to work out.
Some annoying traits like not making it clear who’s talking. Sometimes had to wait for a conversation to be completed, some many sentences later, before working your way back and working out who said what.
April 28, 2026
Good story.
I enjoyed this story. Nika and Gabe are good characters. I like what Nika did when she discovered the real reason Gabe married her. Gabe starts out being cold and manipulative. His goal is to become a Dragon. Dragons are very powerful men who run the world. There is action , betrayal, and steamy scenes . There are some twists.
I enjoyed this story. Nika and Gabe are good characters. I like what Nika did when she discovered the real reason Gabe married her. Gabe starts out being cold and manipulative. His goal is to become a Dragon. Dragons are very powerful men who run the world. There is action , betrayal, and steamy scenes . There are some twists.
April 30, 2026
I usually enjoy this author but I’ve learned since reading so many of the books written by BB Hamel….they’re all the same. It seems the older books were better IMO. The newer books all have the same story, same smutty language, same everything! I DNF this book at 64% after skimming through a lot of it because it really is just boring! 🥱
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