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Devil's Playground #1
Beloved
He hunted me down. Then he made me his bride.
This isn't the first time Kazimir Chertov has made me come hard enough to scream.
The night this ruthless bratva boss claimed my virgin body, he had to shove my soaked panties in my mouth to keep me from waking the entire estate as I bucked and writhed and came for him.
But as he pushes me up against the window tonight, my face pressed to the glass as he drives into me over and over, every brutal thrust is a reminder he was being gentle with me three years ago.
And he's not in a gentle mood right now.
Publisher's Note: Beloved is the first book in the Devil's Playground series but can be read as a standalone. It includes spankings and rough, intense sexual scenes. If such material offends you, please don't buy this book.
This isn't the first time Kazimir Chertov has made me come hard enough to scream.
The night this ruthless bratva boss claimed my virgin body, he had to shove my soaked panties in my mouth to keep me from waking the entire estate as I bucked and writhed and came for him.
But as he pushes me up against the window tonight, my face pressed to the glass as he drives into me over and over, every brutal thrust is a reminder he was being gentle with me three years ago.
And he's not in a gentle mood right now.
Publisher's Note: Beloved is the first book in the Devil's Playground series but can be read as a standalone. It includes spankings and rough, intense sexual scenes. If such material offends you, please don't buy this book.
475 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 22, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
June 30, 2026
Unexpected
This is one of Paper's best! This novel has everything: lust, love, intrigue, mystery, and more. This is a must read.
This is one of Paper's best! This novel has everything: lust, love, intrigue, mystery, and more. This is a must read.
June 11, 2026
Beloved is the first book in the Devil's Playground series. A full-length standalone romance with no cheating or cliffhanger and a guaranteed happily-ever-after. Although part of a series it can be read as a standalone. It includes spankings and rough, intense sexual scenes. If such material offends you, please don't buy this book. Kazimir Chertov, a ruthless Bratva boss, hunt down and claims his bride in this dark romance. This Kazimir and Rafaela story which is told from a dual point of view. An exquisitely crafted story with two flawed and damage individuals and a twisty and complex storyline that captures the audience attention from the first chapter and keeps you riveted and on the edge of your seat with it's pulse-pounding drama, high-octane adventures, non-stop twists and turns, scorching hot panty-melting passion, mystery and suspense. An unputdownable and absorbing addictive read. A definite page turner with enticing erotic scenes that will draw you into the pages. A fast paced, thrilling, gripping and dark story.
A story of violence, danger, bloodshed, loss, attacks, threats, betrayal, backstabbing, grief, torture, double-cross, treachery, acceptance, double-cross, mole, tragedy, heartache, mob war, rivalry, mental health, angst, anxiety, revenge, retaliation, resilience, survival, push and pull, death, consensual intense rough sex, dominance, submission, kidnapping, lies, deception, darkness, madness, captivity, love, distrust, shared connection, laugh-out-loud-moments, possessiveness, obsession, power and control, pawn, manipulation, heartbreak, hurt and pain, physical abuse and so much more.
Kazimir Chertov is the now the pakhan of the Chertov family following the death of his dad. He and his brother Mikhail and his second in command were on their way to make a deal with the Italians, one that was setup before his father's untimely death. However, they were ambushed and Kazimir sacrificed himself to save his brother and is second. He was then kidnapped by the enemy and was to work like a slave on the vineyard. And while there he met the owners daughter Rafaela Marichetti when her emotional dog golden angel got away and he rescues her. Her dog typically doesn't like people so she was shocked she saw the dog with the stranger. And from that moment two had form a relationship where she would make sure that he got food and took care of his injuries because he was beaten and torture. Rafaela was immediately attracted to him and the two formed a friendship.
Kazimir is known as D’yavol, Il Diavolo the devil depending on where the person. The two eventually became lovers but. But when one of the guard realized that they were getting too close he told her father who beat her then send her away just before their plans to help him escape happen. But she didn't leave without him taking her virginity. Kazimir eventually got away but was captured again and held captive and was beaten and torture yet again for another three years but escaped with the help of Kirill is second in command. Believing that she was the one who had betrayed him three years ago his first order of business as a free man was to find her.
And immediately after his escape he hunted down the woman who had given him a little life in hell and made her his bride. This wasn't the first time that Kazimir Chertov has made her come hard enough to scream. The night that the Bratva boss claimed her virgin body, he had to shove her soaked panties in her mouth to keep her from waking the entire estate as she bucked and writhed and came from him. But as he pushes her up against the window tonight, her face pressed to the glass as he drives into her over and over, every brutal thrust is a reminder he was being gentle with her three years ago. And he's not in a gentle mood right now. She was the light in his darkness. His salvation and obsession. A gut-wrenching story for both of these MC's, a lot of suffering and you can't help but weep for them. Kazimir and his brother had endured a lot of pain and suffering. A dark swoon-worthy story that unfolds within the pages.
I received an advanced copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
A story of violence, danger, bloodshed, loss, attacks, threats, betrayal, backstabbing, grief, torture, double-cross, treachery, acceptance, double-cross, mole, tragedy, heartache, mob war, rivalry, mental health, angst, anxiety, revenge, retaliation, resilience, survival, push and pull, death, consensual intense rough sex, dominance, submission, kidnapping, lies, deception, darkness, madness, captivity, love, distrust, shared connection, laugh-out-loud-moments, possessiveness, obsession, power and control, pawn, manipulation, heartbreak, hurt and pain, physical abuse and so much more.
Kazimir Chertov is the now the pakhan of the Chertov family following the death of his dad. He and his brother Mikhail and his second in command were on their way to make a deal with the Italians, one that was setup before his father's untimely death. However, they were ambushed and Kazimir sacrificed himself to save his brother and is second. He was then kidnapped by the enemy and was to work like a slave on the vineyard. And while there he met the owners daughter Rafaela Marichetti when her emotional dog golden angel got away and he rescues her. Her dog typically doesn't like people so she was shocked she saw the dog with the stranger. And from that moment two had form a relationship where she would make sure that he got food and took care of his injuries because he was beaten and torture. Rafaela was immediately attracted to him and the two formed a friendship.
Kazimir is known as D’yavol, Il Diavolo the devil depending on where the person. The two eventually became lovers but. But when one of the guard realized that they were getting too close he told her father who beat her then send her away just before their plans to help him escape happen. But she didn't leave without him taking her virginity. Kazimir eventually got away but was captured again and held captive and was beaten and torture yet again for another three years but escaped with the help of Kirill is second in command. Believing that she was the one who had betrayed him three years ago his first order of business as a free man was to find her.
And immediately after his escape he hunted down the woman who had given him a little life in hell and made her his bride. This wasn't the first time that Kazimir Chertov has made her come hard enough to scream. The night that the Bratva boss claimed her virgin body, he had to shove her soaked panties in her mouth to keep her from waking the entire estate as she bucked and writhed and came from him. But as he pushes her up against the window tonight, her face pressed to the glass as he drives into her over and over, every brutal thrust is a reminder he was being gentle with her three years ago. And he's not in a gentle mood right now. She was the light in his darkness. His salvation and obsession. A gut-wrenching story for both of these MC's, a lot of suffering and you can't help but weep for them. Kazimir and his brother had endured a lot of pain and suffering. A dark swoon-worthy story that unfolds within the pages.
I received an advanced copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 25, 2026
“Beloved” is the first book in the “Devil's Playground Series.” Kazimir Chertov is now the Pakhan after his father's untimely death. Whilst leaving a meeting with the Italian’s in Sicily he is kidnapped. Rafaela Marichetti is the daughter of the owner of the vineyard where Kaz is being held. When out walking her therapy support dog, Golden Angel, she meets the prisoner and cannot forget about him. When he is disciplined by her father, Rafaela works out where he is being held and takes him food and supplies to treat his injuries. The more time they spend together, the closer they become. Together they plan his escape from this prison her father has made for him. The night that he leaves, he takes her heart and her virginity….No realising that her father knew how close they had become, he tells her that Kazimer is dead, killed in the escape attempt…Rafaela is devastated. That was three years ago….
“The first time I’d seen her, she’d appeared as an illusion, a gift of dehydration and physical pain, her voluptuous body shimmering in the late afternoon sun. She was the most beautiful woman I’d ever seen, although meeting her only resulted in physical anguish. I’d known so many stunning women, yet her beauty was eternal, a gift from the very gods above that would never grace my presence.”
Prepare for a story full of twists, turns around every corner, loyalty and betrayal, power and control and sizzling heat. This is a story you won't be able to put down - you will be totally hooked! The story is very fast paced and full of twists and turns! You have danger, betrayal, love, tears, death, power, action and passion.
“As I dominated her tongue, she allowed the dance of passion, moaning only once but catching herself. But she didn’t need to make a single sound to drive me crazy. All I’d needed was the explosive heat of her body. Within seconds, she was kissing me back, exploring my mouth as I’d been doing with hers. The taste was sweet, a hint of whatever drink she’d consumed. Never again would anyone dare try to rip us apart.”
As per standard for Piper’s Mafia Romance stories, it is dark in places, violent at times, passionate in places, full of secrets, loyalties tested and let’s not forget the heat between
Kazimer and Rafaela. The chemistry between them is off the page! A thoroughly enjoyable read from page to page, one chapter to the next - at times you are metaphorical “on the edge of your chair” wondering what will happen next. Overall, I would highly recommend this book and you will not be disappointed 😊
“The first time I’d seen her, she’d appeared as an illusion, a gift of dehydration and physical pain, her voluptuous body shimmering in the late afternoon sun. She was the most beautiful woman I’d ever seen, although meeting her only resulted in physical anguish. I’d known so many stunning women, yet her beauty was eternal, a gift from the very gods above that would never grace my presence.”
Prepare for a story full of twists, turns around every corner, loyalty and betrayal, power and control and sizzling heat. This is a story you won't be able to put down - you will be totally hooked! The story is very fast paced and full of twists and turns! You have danger, betrayal, love, tears, death, power, action and passion.
“As I dominated her tongue, she allowed the dance of passion, moaning only once but catching herself. But she didn’t need to make a single sound to drive me crazy. All I’d needed was the explosive heat of her body. Within seconds, she was kissing me back, exploring my mouth as I’d been doing with hers. The taste was sweet, a hint of whatever drink she’d consumed. Never again would anyone dare try to rip us apart.”
As per standard for Piper’s Mafia Romance stories, it is dark in places, violent at times, passionate in places, full of secrets, loyalties tested and let’s not forget the heat between
Kazimer and Rafaela. The chemistry between them is off the page! A thoroughly enjoyable read from page to page, one chapter to the next - at times you are metaphorical “on the edge of your chair” wondering what will happen next. Overall, I would highly recommend this book and you will not be disappointed 😊
Review of advance copy received from Author
Kazimir Chertov is Pakhan since his father’s death. Making a deal with the Italians was nothing but they could not be trusted. When he and his brother Mikhail are ambushed along with Kirill his second, Kazimir makes the ultimate sacrifice. Get Mikhail out. Rafaela knows all about her father’s business. Her brother Dante escaped it. She has plans as well to get away from him. She is only a pawn to him. When her pup, Golden Angel spies a worker, she races to find out more. The chemistry is instant with these two. But to talk to him causes danger for him. Rafaela knows he isn’t a bad man and gives her heart to him. Kaz does not need to be distracted. He needs to find out who set him up and why was he kept alive. One taste of Rafaela is not enough though. He will find her again.
I have to say I was wondering why they took Kaz as well. Who set him up? You have to give Rafaela a big thumbs up. She was a fighter from the beginning. When Kaz is taken and Rafa has to move on, OMG, it is so sad and heartbreaking. I could not even believe what happened to her. What kind of demented father did she have. When we learn about who was responsible, I was upset, shocked and disappointed. I love her pup Golden Angel. She always gave Rafa comfort. The whole story has betrayal, danger, passion, second chances, and family. I am so glad that Rafa was able to show that she was a force and equal to Kaz. Oh and get some tissue, you are going to tear up at the end.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I have to say I was wondering why they took Kaz as well. Who set him up? You have to give Rafaela a big thumbs up. She was a fighter from the beginning. When Kaz is taken and Rafa has to move on, OMG, it is so sad and heartbreaking. I could not even believe what happened to her. What kind of demented father did she have. When we learn about who was responsible, I was upset, shocked and disappointed. I love her pup Golden Angel. She always gave Rafa comfort. The whole story has betrayal, danger, passion, second chances, and family. I am so glad that Rafa was able to show that she was a force and equal to Kaz. Oh and get some tissue, you are going to tear up at the end.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 27, 2026
Truly a kismet story that will have you in tears!
Rafaela survives an attack in her youth that has her needing a service dog to help her with her fears. I feel for Kaz as he pushes through with his father’s plan to deal with the Italians, but the outcome is unexpected with him captured by an unknown enemy working in his vineyard. Enter Rafaela, the owner’s daughter who sees Kaz in the vineyard helping her dog who is caught in brambles and instantly feels attracted to him. Rafaela discovers his location on the vineyard at night and brings staples for Kaz to survive. When it becomes apparent to her father’s soldier that Rafaela is attracted to Kaz, her father does the unthinkable in front of her face. Rafaela helps Kaz to escape but not without taking something she wants from him. Fate plays against them as Kaz is captured and Rafaela is hurt by her father and sent away. Thankful for Kaz’s steadfast determination to escape that keeps him alive and finally with the help of his second, it happens three years later. Kaz’s first order of business is finding the woman who never left his mind and wonders if she turned him in. Rafaela is living on her own and going to school for fashion when her dog steps away from her in the audience of a fashion show. What follows is their re-connection but not without doubts between them as they continue to find the mole in Kaz’s team. How will it all end? You have to read to find out and will be rooting for the star-crossed lovers’ happily ever after!
Rafaela survives an attack in her youth that has her needing a service dog to help her with her fears. I feel for Kaz as he pushes through with his father’s plan to deal with the Italians, but the outcome is unexpected with him captured by an unknown enemy working in his vineyard. Enter Rafaela, the owner’s daughter who sees Kaz in the vineyard helping her dog who is caught in brambles and instantly feels attracted to him. Rafaela discovers his location on the vineyard at night and brings staples for Kaz to survive. When it becomes apparent to her father’s soldier that Rafaela is attracted to Kaz, her father does the unthinkable in front of her face. Rafaela helps Kaz to escape but not without taking something she wants from him. Fate plays against them as Kaz is captured and Rafaela is hurt by her father and sent away. Thankful for Kaz’s steadfast determination to escape that keeps him alive and finally with the help of his second, it happens three years later. Kaz’s first order of business is finding the woman who never left his mind and wonders if she turned him in. Rafaela is living on her own and going to school for fashion when her dog steps away from her in the audience of a fashion show. What follows is their re-connection but not without doubts between them as they continue to find the mole in Kaz’s team. How will it all end? You have to read to find out and will be rooting for the star-crossed lovers’ happily ever after!
May 28, 2026
Beloved is the 1st book in Devil's Playground series and follows Kazimir Chertov and Rafaela Marichetti.
Oh,what a tangled web this story weaves. It's full of treachery, manipulation, danger, obsession and even love.
Kazimir Chertov has taken over as Pakhan after his father's untimely death. To not look weak he travels to Sicily for an important meeting his father already set up but everything goes awry when he's ambushed and held prisoner.
Rafaela Marichetti had suffered a traumatic childhood experience which caused debilitating anxiety. The only thing that helped was her support dog Golden Angel that goes everywhere with her. While out on a walk her dog takes a liking to a worker in her family's vineyard which sets off her father's head of operations who threatens the man and her sweet dog. When another incident happens after her dog gets caught in brambles and the same man helps free Golden Angel all hell breaks loose when her father finds out. When she is forced to witness her father's brutality against the kind worker she is determined to find a way to help him. This sets off a series of actions that will change both of their lives.
Hold on tight as this one has some unexpected twist, turns, danger, shocking revelations and unimaginable betrayals. Oh and of course there's steamy passion and undeniable chemistry that leads to so much more.
I received a free copy through Booksprout an I'm voluntarily leaving my review.
5 ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Oh,what a tangled web this story weaves. It's full of treachery, manipulation, danger, obsession and even love.
Kazimir Chertov has taken over as Pakhan after his father's untimely death. To not look weak he travels to Sicily for an important meeting his father already set up but everything goes awry when he's ambushed and held prisoner.
Rafaela Marichetti had suffered a traumatic childhood experience which caused debilitating anxiety. The only thing that helped was her support dog Golden Angel that goes everywhere with her. While out on a walk her dog takes a liking to a worker in her family's vineyard which sets off her father's head of operations who threatens the man and her sweet dog. When another incident happens after her dog gets caught in brambles and the same man helps free Golden Angel all hell breaks loose when her father finds out. When she is forced to witness her father's brutality against the kind worker she is determined to find a way to help him. This sets off a series of actions that will change both of their lives.
Hold on tight as this one has some unexpected twist, turns, danger, shocking revelations and unimaginable betrayals. Oh and of course there's steamy passion and undeniable chemistry that leads to so much more.
I received a free copy through Booksprout an I'm voluntarily leaving my review.
5 ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Review of advance copy received from Author
Simply captivating read, the characters Rafaela Marichetti and Kazimir Cherkov are a great read
This book has been a simply wonderful read and I have enjoyed every single moment of this read and I am sure that other readers will be as captivated by this simply wonderful read as I have been.
This is a highly charged story that is both dark and intense and ver dramatic and you have to remember Kazimir Cherkov is also known as D’yavol, Il Diavolo, the devil depending on where the person was and their belief.
Kamir has been imprisoned and he is determined to discover who it was that had framed him with no true facts and still he had been placed behind bars. He is suspicious of anyone and everyone that attempts to help him and even when Rafaela offered him care and attention he had believed she might be operating under duress or perhaps part of the plot that had imprisoned him.
When you read this story you will be captivated by this story and I guarantee that you will be kept guessing right to the very end of this book.
I thoroughly enjoyed the book and look forward to reading any future publications; keep up all the wonderful writing.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book has been a simply wonderful read and I have enjoyed every single moment of this read and I am sure that other readers will be as captivated by this simply wonderful read as I have been.
This is a highly charged story that is both dark and intense and ver dramatic and you have to remember Kazimir Cherkov is also known as D’yavol, Il Diavolo, the devil depending on where the person was and their belief.
Kamir has been imprisoned and he is determined to discover who it was that had framed him with no true facts and still he had been placed behind bars. He is suspicious of anyone and everyone that attempts to help him and even when Rafaela offered him care and attention he had believed she might be operating under duress or perhaps part of the plot that had imprisoned him.
When you read this story you will be captivated by this story and I guarantee that you will be kept guessing right to the very end of this book.
I thoroughly enjoyed the book and look forward to reading any future publications; keep up all the wonderful writing.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
Rafaela is intent on getting into university in Paris for design. Her father agrees with her plan. Her emotional support dog sees a new worker and runs to him. Golden Angel usually hates men. Rafaela is intrigued by the worker who does not appear to understand Italian.
She finds where he is being held as prisoner and brings him food and water. They start to develop a relationship when she surrenders her virginity to him. She helps him to escape but he is caught, and her father punishes her for her misdeeds. He whips her and disowns her, but she succeeds in her program.
Kazimir is able to escape the Russian prison he was in for over 3 years when his lieutenant rescues him.
He finds Raefela in Paris and they rekindle their relationship. Kazimir is intent on finding who betrayed him. The pair work to discover all the misdeeds of both their families.
I loved the interactions between Kazimir and Rafaela. I admired the personal growth of Rafaela as she finds her way in Paris.
There is a HEA ending which a tremendous surprise for Kazimir.
This story had a great plot with multiple subplots and real heat between the MC.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
She finds where he is being held as prisoner and brings him food and water. They start to develop a relationship when she surrenders her virginity to him. She helps him to escape but he is caught, and her father punishes her for her misdeeds. He whips her and disowns her, but she succeeds in her program.
Kazimir is able to escape the Russian prison he was in for over 3 years when his lieutenant rescues him.
He finds Raefela in Paris and they rekindle their relationship. Kazimir is intent on finding who betrayed him. The pair work to discover all the misdeeds of both their families.
I loved the interactions between Kazimir and Rafaela. I admired the personal growth of Rafaela as she finds her way in Paris.
There is a HEA ending which a tremendous surprise for Kazimir.
This story had a great plot with multiple subplots and real heat between the MC.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 31, 2026
Holy wowzah! This book was EVERYTHING I want in a storyline. Kazimir Cherkov has a serious reputation, but when his entourage is ambushed during meeting with "supposed" allies, well things get very dicey very quickly and he is imprisoned and tortured. In walks (or breaks into his prison, lol) a beautiful young girl who becomes his present and eventually his future. Rafaela is instantly attracted to Kazimir despite him telling her that he is a monster, Il Diavolo, the devil and sets about helping in small ways to make his imprisonment easier. Kazimir though Rafaela's help escapes his prison only to be re-captured and taken to a much worse prison but one he knows quite well. After three long years, his trusted lieutenant helps to free him and Kazimir's one thought is to find and claim his beautiful "little healer" as his own. Really, really, really wonderful story and if this book is merely the first book in the Devil's Playground series, I cannot wait to read Book 2.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 2, 2026
This story is so good!
Yes this story is really good,but so heartwrenching!It's filled with so much greed,lies like certain people were out for themselves regardless if you were family or not the greed and jealousy just over ruled every thing else.Rafaea was young at heart but soon her life would change,not once but a few times in the next three years,she meets a very hamsome man Kizmiri but he is a slave but that doesn't stop her,she tries to help him when he is beaten but she knows he wants to get back to his family and so she helps him but they have a few hours then he escapes and her father makes her pay with her life.But someone doesn't want Kizmiri to make it back home and it will be three miserable years before his plan is filled and all this time he wants to know who did this to him and why,he worries about his brothers,and he thinks about his little angel,his healer.This story has some shockers too and it's very hard to put down it's so goodbut please read it you will enjoy it has much has I did!
Yes this story is really good,but so heartwrenching!It's filled with so much greed,lies like certain people were out for themselves regardless if you were family or not the greed and jealousy just over ruled every thing else.Rafaea was young at heart but soon her life would change,not once but a few times in the next three years,she meets a very hamsome man Kizmiri but he is a slave but that doesn't stop her,she tries to help him when he is beaten but she knows he wants to get back to his family and so she helps him but they have a few hours then he escapes and her father makes her pay with her life.But someone doesn't want Kizmiri to make it back home and it will be three miserable years before his plan is filled and all this time he wants to know who did this to him and why,he worries about his brothers,and he thinks about his little angel,his healer.This story has some shockers too and it's very hard to put down it's so goodbut please read it you will enjoy it has much has I did!
July 8, 2026
Long and convoluted...
Some spoilers...
The story started out interestin, yet there were so many unnecessary detailed pages about the. MC's family approximately 25 I started scrolling through . Also the MF had more conversations with her dog than any characters in the book. Don't get me wrong.I love animals in books , but this was just overdone. The situations in this book were absurd.The MF left her birthday party to give her virginity to the man that her father had captured. She helped him escape and then he came back and had sex with her again then spanked her for sneaking out??? The father recaptured him, put him in jail for 3 years, unknown to the.M f. He was imprisoned for 3 years. This book jumped all over the place.It was right reading 2 different books.It was very hard to keep track of. It wasn't bad , it was overly lengthy for no reason. You might not mind it if you've got a lot of time to kill lol
Some spoilers...
The story started out interestin, yet there were so many unnecessary detailed pages about the. MC's family approximately 25 I started scrolling through . Also the MF had more conversations with her dog than any characters in the book. Don't get me wrong.I love animals in books , but this was just overdone. The situations in this book were absurd.The MF left her birthday party to give her virginity to the man that her father had captured. She helped him escape and then he came back and had sex with her again then spanked her for sneaking out??? The father recaptured him, put him in jail for 3 years, unknown to the.M f. He was imprisoned for 3 years. This book jumped all over the place.It was right reading 2 different books.It was very hard to keep track of. It wasn't bad , it was overly lengthy for no reason. You might not mind it if you've got a lot of time to kill lol
May 23, 2026
Ok let's just say this book is off the rails in a really good way. That doesn't begin to cover it. There's deceit, betrayal, honor, love, loyalty, abuse, family to an extreme. The story grabs you from the start and takes you on a rollercoaster and motorcross ride throughout. The traitor isn't telegraphed which is extremely difficult to do. The ending of the Rafaela's father was too quick for everything she was put through. The brother/sister loyalty will touch your soul. Kazimir becomes pakhan after his father, has to finalize a deal with the Italians and then figure out who betrayed him. Do yourself a favor & carved out some time, make sure everyone knows to leave you alone, and allow yourself to be drawn into this story. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
Wow, what a crazy chain of events! From the moment Rafaela and Kazimir first met, you could feel the sparks coming off the pages. It was incredibly endearing to watch her care for an unknown prisoner, which beautifully showed her true character. Kazimir was ruthless but had a surprisingly compassionate side that made me fall for him even more. I found myself rooting for them both as they endured their shared imprisonment. The shocking betrayals, high-stakes suspense, witty banter, and extremely spicy moments kept me glued to the pages. My only complaint is that it ended much too quickly. I fell for Kazimir and Rafaela, and I can't wait to see what else this series has in store.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Beloved is Rafaela Marichetti and Kazimir Cherkov's (aka D’yavol, Il Diavolo, the devil, depending on where you were) journey. This is a dark, intense, dramatic, fast-paced story full of secrets, lies and betrayals. Their story is emotional and the chemistry between them palpable. This story brought me in quickly and held on tight all the way through. My heart ached for Mikhail, Kazimir's brother. He has so many issues and struggles so badly with everything and ultimately he suffered even more for it all in very different ways. This story will have you in it's clutches quickly. Buckle up and enjoy the ride.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Powerful Emotional Read
WOW! What a mad whirlwind of a read from one emotional situation to another!
This storyline will engage you time and time again and you won’t be able to put it down. Sometimes swoon-worthy and sometimes dark as the twists and betrayal keep you on your toes and keep you guessing until you reach the last page and what an ending! You won’t see it coming but it will take your breath away with the wonder of their HEA.
Full of passion, sizzle, danger this page-turning read is one not to be missed!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
WOW! What a mad whirlwind of a read from one emotional situation to another!
This storyline will engage you time and time again and you won’t be able to put it down. Sometimes swoon-worthy and sometimes dark as the twists and betrayal keep you on your toes and keep you guessing until you reach the last page and what an ending! You won’t see it coming but it will take your breath away with the wonder of their HEA.
Full of passion, sizzle, danger this page-turning read is one not to be missed!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Book one of "Devil's Playground" series. Sometimes fate puts you in the right place at the right time and then tears you apart. Kazimir Chertov was betrayed by those he trusted and ended up a prisoner of the Italians. The one bright spot was Rafaela, his angel, who tended to his injuries and made sure he had food and water. Kazimir was waiting for his opportunity to escape, but the night before he and Rafaela gave into their passion. Just as his escape looked successful, he was caught and sent to a prison in Siberia. After three years, he was finally able to escape and the first thing he did was set out to find Rafaela.
May 22, 2026
captured in the first pages and it is the FMC who helps him escape and then he is captured again and imprisoned for 3 years. I love that the dog is called Golden Angel, I am sure there is a story behind that. Rafaela and Kazimir have an intense connection that last throughout unimaginable curtly and lies and they endure much to achieve their HEA. I did love the madame in Paris such a pragmatic character. The betrayer is not one that comes to mind while reading the story and it is a sad realization for the characters and the reader. The twist at the end was a lovely surprise and help negate some of the horrors this couple suffered.
May 25, 2026
A tale of treachery and betrayal, obsession and love. We meet Kazimir Chertov just after his father's death and as he becomes Pakhan. While attempting to follow through on a deal his father had been working on in Sicily, it all goes wrong and Kazimir is held captive. While there he helps a dog caught up in briars, one that is Rafaela's service dog, a dog that doesn't like men but is happy to meet Kazimir. Kazimir and Rafaela's meeting sets in motion a series of events that takes us to the heart of Russian prisons and the beauty of Paris. A rollercoaster of a read that is full of twists and turns and at the heart, an obsession between two people, with surprises right through to the end.
June 10, 2026
Kazimir Chertov became Pakhan on the death of his father. He make a scrifice to save his brother when they are attacked. Rafaela is looking to get out from under father like her brother. When her pup comes across a new worker and does not shy away, he garners her attention, and she brings him water. The pair have a chemistry from the beginning and he tries not to be distracted by her but fails. She helps him escape and he father punishes her for it.
The find each other in Paris and start up again and work to find out who betrayed Kazmir. There are rough interactive scenes between the pair with punishments.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The find each other in Paris and start up again and work to find out who betrayed Kazmir. There are rough interactive scenes between the pair with punishments.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 23, 2026
A highly captivating mixture of a dark romance and a mafia fiction. As always in Piper Stone's books all the dark details like mafia killings or kidnappings are just a part of the cruel world, but it's all just a back story to the raging chemistry between the beautiful couple of people falling in love. There's a lot standing between them and their future happiness, including truly evil people trying their best to ruin their lives, but shouldn't true love always win?.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 26, 2026
Book 1 of Devil's Playground. And a FANtastic start it is! Look forward to more from this world.
'He hunted me down. Then he made me his bride.'
The characters drove the storyline and they were very compelling and complex and complicated and perfectly steamy together. Plot was intriguing and intense and well paced. World building was excellent and solidly drawn. Thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend!
Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy the read!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
'He hunted me down. Then he made me his bride.'
The characters drove the storyline and they were very compelling and complex and complicated and perfectly steamy together. Plot was intriguing and intense and well paced. World building was excellent and solidly drawn. Thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend!
Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy the read!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 18, 2026
Usually, there's a formula for alot of these stories. Don't get me wrong, kit doesn't stop me from reading them, because the background and the characters change. However, with Kashmir and Rafaella, it's different, there are mysteries with in intrigues. And yet the romance between Kashmir and Rafaella is hot and steamy as well as exciting. It's a fast paced romantic adventure, full of danger, that's an exciting read!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 24, 2026
A journey that's worth it
This book spans a few years and is kinda a second chance book. MMC and FMC have serious chemistry. The story is believable and builds perfectly and develops into a real partnership. I really enjoyed this read. There is torture in this book so if that's not your cup of tea then this isn't for you. But the suffering brings a depth of bond that is really beautiful
This book spans a few years and is kinda a second chance book. MMC and FMC have serious chemistry. The story is believable and builds perfectly and develops into a real partnership. I really enjoyed this read. There is torture in this book so if that's not your cup of tea then this isn't for you. But the suffering brings a depth of bond that is really beautiful
May 28, 2026
Kashmir and Rafaela
So much betrayal, punishments, who is pulling the strings? These two have so much happened to them it’s crazy. Kashmir the Devil bratva pakan man talk about losing his father, going to meeting and then all hell brakes lose but who can he trust and then he meets Rafaela the daughter of enforcer to the Don in Italy . I just adored her spirit, strength and determination to stand up for her man . Just amazing loved this book 📕
So much betrayal, punishments, who is pulling the strings? These two have so much happened to them it’s crazy. Kashmir the Devil bratva pakan man talk about losing his father, going to meeting and then all hell brakes lose but who can he trust and then he meets Rafaela the daughter of enforcer to the Don in Italy . I just adored her spirit, strength and determination to stand up for her man . Just amazing loved this book 📕
May 31, 2026
Rafaela has an emotional support dog (Golden Angel) who dislikes men. When the two of them are in the vineyards Golden takes off and is caught in brambles. Rafaela finds Golden with Kazimir setting the dog free. Rafaela is intrigued with Kazimir who is not like the other vineyard workers and helps him to escape. The steamy mafia book has danger and betrayal.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
Rafaela was drawn to the prisoner of her father in Kazimir and gave her vcard to him only to be caught and punished by her father. Kazimir escapes and hibts for Rafaella finding her he now needs to trust and find out who got him put in prison before they come for him and whats his again well written engaging steamy desires drama dark themes and more
May 24, 2026
This book hit the ground running. Right from the very first chapter, the intensity hit. Raf and Kaz were so good in this. This was high heat, packed with action and danger. Lies and betrayal. Captivity and more. The twists and turns really pulled this together and kept it engaging. I was seriously obsessed with this one. I didn’t want to put it down. I honestly didn’t want this one to end.
May 24, 2026
Kazimir and Rafaela meet when he is being held captive by her father. The attraction is undeniable but each has their own agenda. Now, years later, they are both free, but will their past sins co.e back to haunt them.
This was a good book. I liked the characters. I found it to be entertaining.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This was a good book. I liked the characters. I found it to be entertaining.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 27, 2026
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It had almost everything I look for in this genre.
The main characters were likable and feisty, which was a big plus; the story had a good pace and a solid plot, though there were only a few surprising moments.
You’ll really enjoy this on your days off—it’s a real treat.
The main characters were likable and feisty, which was a big plus; the story had a good pace and a solid plot, though there were only a few surprising moments.
You’ll really enjoy this on your days off—it’s a real treat.
May 30, 2026
Beloved: A Dark Russian Mafia Romance (Devil's Playground Book 1) Piper Stone. Kazimir Chertov the Don this man was betrayed, torture, incarcerated, everything was taken from him. Rafaela Marichetti his strength and weakness. Great story where two stranger find the chance to love, betrayal and loss. I enjoyed this story.
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