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Mafia #1
Empires and Kings
I was known as the traitor's daughter.
When I was five years old, my father was tortured, branded with the letter 'Z', then beaten and left for dead. The grueling punishment for his crime was a reminder to all others who dared threaten the Russian's reign.
I was the young girl left behind. A living piece of the traitorous puzzle the Russian leader tried so diligently to ignore.
Until I grew up. No longer could he deny how much my existence had always been intertwined with his. And in order to survive the life I was thrown into, I was forced to learn my place inside of it.
Vlad Zalesky was a tyrant to the lost.
I hated him.
He was a terror of mass destruction.
I was afraid of him.
He was a tormentor of the weak.
I only wanted to hide from him.
But not far beneath the venomous man's outward indifference was something else.
Vlad Zalesky carried secrets of unrestrained burden. I wanted to know those secrets.
And because of the decisions I made, someone in our family had to pay.
Authors Note: This is a dark romance. Due to content, this book should be read only by those over the age of 18.
When I was five years old, my father was tortured, branded with the letter 'Z', then beaten and left for dead. The grueling punishment for his crime was a reminder to all others who dared threaten the Russian's reign.
I was the young girl left behind. A living piece of the traitorous puzzle the Russian leader tried so diligently to ignore.
Until I grew up. No longer could he deny how much my existence had always been intertwined with his. And in order to survive the life I was thrown into, I was forced to learn my place inside of it.
Vlad Zalesky was a tyrant to the lost.
I hated him.
He was a terror of mass destruction.
I was afraid of him.
He was a tormentor of the weak.
I only wanted to hide from him.
But not far beneath the venomous man's outward indifference was something else.
Vlad Zalesky carried secrets of unrestrained burden. I wanted to know those secrets.
And because of the decisions I made, someone in our family had to pay.
Authors Note: This is a dark romance. Due to content, this book should be read only by those over the age of 18.
337 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 31, 2017
369 people are currently reading
1079 people want to read
About the author
A.C. Bextor
25 books1,241 followersFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/AC-Bex...
Twitter: @ACBextor
Official Website: www.acbextor.com
Amazon Page: http://www.amazon.com/A.C.-Bextor/e/B...
Email: Acbextor@gmail.com
Twitter: @ACBextor
Official Website: www.acbextor.com
Amazon Page: http://www.amazon.com/A.C.-Bextor/e/B...
Email: Acbextor@gmail.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 263 reviews
August 21, 2017
If you like Mafia-themed romances, then you'll probably enjoy this one. It was one of the recommendations that popped up when browsing Kindle Unlimited, based upon my Amazon purchase history. In the past, I've not had much luck with the computer-generated "recommendations". However, this time the computer finally got it right!
'Empires and Kings' is the first book in A. C. Bextor's 'A Mafia Series'. Right from the start, I was captivated by this story. The circumstances of these characters' lives was brutal and tragic. This is certainly a romanticized account of organized crime, yet the author doesn't entirely shy away from some of the hard truths.
As a young Vlad Zalesky rises through the ranks of his father's criminal empire, he is forced to become a man of violence. The night that he kills tortures and orders his first kill, he can no longer hide from the darkness that lives within him. When he comes face to face with the young daughter of the traitor, he is forced to see himself through her innocent eyes.
Nonetheless, Vlad must stay the course. To send a message to any others that might dare to cross him or his organization, he decides to keep the girl. The traitor dies thinking that his daughter will be forced to spend her life working in one of the organizations' many houses of prostitution.
Klara has lived with Vlad since that horrible night, when she stumbled upon the murder of her father as a young girl. Despite the fact that her father was a traitor, Vlad has allowed Klara to grow up in his mansion and have a privileged life. She is more like part of the family than a prisoner, babied by Vlad's sister and a sort of sister to his son.
For the most part, Vlad has ignored the girl living under his roof. Of course, now that she is growing into a young woman he is having a harder time dismissing the beautiful Klara. He wants her badly, but doesn't want to steal the last bit of innocence that she possesses.
Eventually, Vlad and Klara cross that line and their relationship changes. No surprise there. After all, if they didn't find their way to each other there wouldn't be much of a romance here.
Along the way, there is plenty of angst and drama. Vlad is a complete Alpha-male a**hole and I loved him for it. (I'm sick like that.) He does plenty of infuriating things along the way that will have you wanting to strangle him.
Klara is the stereotypical innocent virgin. Know that going into this story. If that trope irritates you, then you will be seriously peeved with this book. I happen to love it, as cliché as it may be. So this story worked for me.
There are plenty of disturbing scenarios presented as well. I read a lot of dark stories and didn't find anything to be too graphic, but I have a high tolerance for dark content. If you are easily "triggered", then I'd steer clear of this one.
I enjoyed the many layers that were presented in this book. The characters were complex and intriguing. I found myself completely absorbed in this story from start to finish.
My only complaint is that there were a few times when I thought the author tried to venture into "dark" territory, only to chicken out. That is a big peeve of mine. I think if an author is going to write a dark story they should embrace the dark side and not be afraid to take it all the way.
One scene, in particular, had the potential to be a really pivotal dark scene, but it ended up being underwhelming. The author did a spectacular job of building suspense and pulling emotions from readers, only to not carry out the scene, having Vlad fail to carry through with the threatened action against Klara. After waiting for what was bound to be an emotional and traumatic event, I was left feeling a little ripped off. Then, it was hard for me to buy all of the coldness and turmoil that followed when Vlad didn't even do what he set out to do.
Overall, this was a great read for me. I will definitely be reading the next book in the series when it is released. There were a few things that I would've changed, but I couldn't put it down until I finished it. If you like stories that have a little dark content, or if Mafia books are your thing, then you won't be disappointed with this one.
'Empires and Kings' is the first book in A. C. Bextor's 'A Mafia Series'. Right from the start, I was captivated by this story. The circumstances of these characters' lives was brutal and tragic. This is certainly a romanticized account of organized crime, yet the author doesn't entirely shy away from some of the hard truths.
As a young Vlad Zalesky rises through the ranks of his father's criminal empire, he is forced to become a man of violence. The night that he kills tortures and orders his first kill, he can no longer hide from the darkness that lives within him. When he comes face to face with the young daughter of the traitor, he is forced to see himself through her innocent eyes.
Nonetheless, Vlad must stay the course. To send a message to any others that might dare to cross him or his organization, he decides to keep the girl. The traitor dies thinking that his daughter will be forced to spend her life working in one of the organizations' many houses of prostitution.
Klara has lived with Vlad since that horrible night, when she stumbled upon the murder of her father as a young girl. Despite the fact that her father was a traitor, Vlad has allowed Klara to grow up in his mansion and have a privileged life. She is more like part of the family than a prisoner, babied by Vlad's sister and a sort of sister to his son.
For the most part, Vlad has ignored the girl living under his roof. Of course, now that she is growing into a young woman he is having a harder time dismissing the beautiful Klara. He wants her badly, but doesn't want to steal the last bit of innocence that she possesses.
Eventually, Vlad and Klara cross that line and their relationship changes. No surprise there. After all, if they didn't find their way to each other there wouldn't be much of a romance here.
Along the way, there is plenty of angst and drama. Vlad is a complete Alpha-male a**hole and I loved him for it. (I'm sick like that.) He does plenty of infuriating things along the way that will have you wanting to strangle him.
Klara is the stereotypical innocent virgin. Know that going into this story. If that trope irritates you, then you will be seriously peeved with this book. I happen to love it, as cliché as it may be. So this story worked for me.
There are plenty of disturbing scenarios presented as well. I read a lot of dark stories and didn't find anything to be too graphic, but I have a high tolerance for dark content. If you are easily "triggered", then I'd steer clear of this one.
I enjoyed the many layers that were presented in this book. The characters were complex and intriguing. I found myself completely absorbed in this story from start to finish.
My only complaint is that there were a few times when I thought the author tried to venture into "dark" territory, only to chicken out. That is a big peeve of mine. I think if an author is going to write a dark story they should embrace the dark side and not be afraid to take it all the way.
One scene, in particular, had the potential to be a really pivotal dark scene, but it ended up being underwhelming. The author did a spectacular job of building suspense and pulling emotions from readers, only to not carry out the scene, having Vlad fail to carry through with the threatened action against Klara. After waiting for what was bound to be an emotional and traumatic event, I was left feeling a little ripped off. Then, it was hard for me to buy all of the coldness and turmoil that followed when Vlad didn't even do what he set out to do.
Overall, this was a great read for me. I will definitely be reading the next book in the series when it is released. There were a few things that I would've changed, but I couldn't put it down until I finished it. If you like stories that have a little dark content, or if Mafia books are your thing, then you won't be disappointed with this one.
January 17, 2017
Klara was just five years old when she witnessed her father being labeled a traitor and murdered by a man named Vlad. Brought into his house to be raised as a reminder of his first kill, Klara has always been fascinated by the man she calls "V".
Fifteen years have passed and Klara is now a beautiful 21-year-old woman. Her feisty spirit and regular disobedience have Vlad paying more than a little attention to her. Giving into his attraction for Klara is not something Vlad can allow himself to do.
When Klara takes matters into her own hands those sparks ignite into a raging fire with repercussions that could burn them all.
So WOWZA was this book good. The writing was fantastic. The plot was fast paced and intricate. It was gritty. It was heartbreaking. It was tragic. The characters (both main and secondary) were well developed. The relationship between Vlad and Klara was slowly built up and multi-layered. I loved so many of the secondary characters and I hope we will be seeing more books with them in it. Lastly, the ending GUTTED me...I was bawling my eyes out. WHY Miz Bextor...WHY?!
Two HUGE thumbs up from yours truly!
Read
February 7, 2017
Another mafia extraordinaire, five bullet casing stars. A.C. Bextor brings heart stopping action, phenomenal romance and the addiction to keep reading.
Couldn’t set this book down for a minute. When I tried, I was thinking of the storyline, imagining what was gonna happen next, before you knew it the book was back in hand and the pages were quickly turning.
I have a love hate thing going on with Vlad. Would classify him as asshole extreme! Unapologetic, arrogant and spine chillingly dangerous with no sense of repentance! He wears power and wealth like a cloak, and if you cross him.... well that’s your funeral!
Imagine being Klara, the daughter of a known traitor. Oooosp, you can figure the rest out….happy reading enjoy!
June 20, 2017
Get it here:
Amazon
Empires and Kings was my first book by A.C Bextor and I can say with full certainty that it won't be my last. In the beginning I was wishing for a little more darkness, and then near the half-way mark it was like this author heard my wishes and gave me all the darkness that she could. I loved the twists she took with the plot and how there was no holding back who got hurt or how. It's these kinds of books that I love because of their unpredictability.
I honestly can't even pin-point what it was about this book that had me so obsessed with it, but I do know that once I started I was unable to put it down. I became crazed with my need to read until I got all my answers and I don't regret becoming so angry at the people that tried to interrupt my reading. Take this as a warning and pick this book up when you have a few hours to do nothing but read.
Amazon
Empires and Kings was my first book by A.C Bextor and I can say with full certainty that it won't be my last. In the beginning I was wishing for a little more darkness, and then near the half-way mark it was like this author heard my wishes and gave me all the darkness that she could. I loved the twists she took with the plot and how there was no holding back who got hurt or how. It's these kinds of books that I love because of their unpredictability.
I honestly can't even pin-point what it was about this book that had me so obsessed with it, but I do know that once I started I was unable to put it down. I became crazed with my need to read until I got all my answers and I don't regret becoming so angry at the people that tried to interrupt my reading. Take this as a warning and pick this book up when you have a few hours to do nothing but read.
dnf
February 7, 2017DNF. Not my style.
All I can say is that the writing seemed pretty good and it's worth trying out, if the blurb seems interesting.
You can always DNF, right?
All I can say is that the writing seemed pretty good and it's worth trying out, if the blurb seems interesting.
You can always DNF, right?
August 17, 2017
4.75 "Empires, yes BUT only one King can prevail"
Fuckin BRILLIANT!
Vlad Zalesky
A leader of a Russian mob in Chicago, a tyrant, a tormentor, cruel ruler, a monster, a punisher...
Klara Koslief
a collateral, a daughter of a traitor, a witness of her father's demise from Vlad's hands, the same hands that kept her in place, under his roof for 15 years, until her very presence became noticed...
As she became accustomed to the life under Vlad's wing, the man under the cruel, monsterous feature and action, became a lure to her until the moment he changed his perception and she became his - fully, totally, completely...
Two enemy mafia families - Russian & Italian at the verge of constant lingering conflict, the conquest of teritory, interactions that go beyond the ploys, threats, danger and death , will push them both, beyond their emotional comfort zones as they unravel the connection between them, the uncharted teritory beyond possesion, it's more than a love story behind the scenes of crimes, it's the lifeline they each found in one another!
Effortless writing, intriguing plot, constant thrive in action, and a ruthless, fabulously portrayed anti-hero can actually be enough to bring you thrill and excitement while reading!
Fuckin BRILLIANT!
Vlad Zalesky
A leader of a Russian mob in Chicago, a tyrant, a tormentor, cruel ruler, a monster, a punisher...
Klara Koslief
a collateral, a daughter of a traitor, a witness of her father's demise from Vlad's hands, the same hands that kept her in place, under his roof for 15 years, until her very presence became noticed...
As she became accustomed to the life under Vlad's wing, the man under the cruel, monsterous feature and action, became a lure to her until the moment he changed his perception and she became his - fully, totally, completely...
Two enemy mafia families - Russian & Italian at the verge of constant lingering conflict, the conquest of teritory, interactions that go beyond the ploys, threats, danger and death , will push them both, beyond their emotional comfort zones as they unravel the connection between them, the uncharted teritory beyond possesion, it's more than a love story behind the scenes of crimes, it's the lifeline they each found in one another!
Effortless writing, intriguing plot, constant thrive in action, and a ruthless, fabulously portrayed anti-hero can actually be enough to bring you thrill and excitement while reading!
Read
February 7, 2017DNF - not rating.
This was unsafe and I couldn't get over it. Safety explanation:
This author may not be for me.
This was unsafe and I couldn't get over it. Safety explanation:
This author may not be for me.
February 16, 2017
3.5 Stars
Overall Opinion: I did not realize this ends on a cliffy!** I hate when I don't notice these things and I get to the end and start thinking "oh crap, it's a series!". It's all on me though. I enjoyed it. It did take a little while to get into it, but it might have just been me being anxious to see them get together. Because of the cliffy, we have a lot of unanswered questions that I wish were answered -- but it is what it is ;). I think I'll probably be looking for the next in the series, Saints and Savages, when it gets released...
**After looking into the next book in the series it looks like it is about a different couple! That honestly makes me really disappointed in this ending! I hope we get some closure in that book for them!!!
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is the start of Klara and Vlad's story. 5 year old Klara is taken in by Vlad and his family when he kills her father for being a traitor. The story starts when Klara is almost 21 and they are both starting to see each other in a different light. The sparks fly, and neither of them can deny their connection. There is some dancing around each other, some mafia drama/violence, some sexy and some sad times...and we get a cliffy.
POV: This alternated between Klara and Vlad's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Ok. I thought it was slow starting, but I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well otherwise.
Instalove: No, they've known each other for years.
H rating: 3.5 stars. Vlad. I liked him, but I wish he was more up-front with the h.
h rating: 3.5 stars. Klara. I liked her, but there were a few times that I wanted her to be a little stronger when it came to the H.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed.
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
Safe sex: No
OW/OM drama: Yes
Sex scene with OW or OM: Yes
Cheating: No
Separation: Yes, very short (days?). They still live in same house though.
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This had a cliffhanger. It wasn't the worst cliffy I've experienced, but we definitely aren't left with closure here.
How I got it: It was part of my kindle unlimited subscription.
Safety: This one is probably Not Safe for most of the safety gang.
Overall Opinion: I did not realize this ends on a cliffy!** I hate when I don't notice these things and I get to the end and start thinking "oh crap, it's a series!". It's all on me though. I enjoyed it. It did take a little while to get into it, but it might have just been me being anxious to see them get together. Because of the cliffy, we have a lot of unanswered questions that I wish were answered -- but it is what it is ;). I think I'll probably be looking for the next in the series, Saints and Savages, when it gets released...
**After looking into the next book in the series it looks like it is about a different couple! That honestly makes me really disappointed in this ending! I hope we get some closure in that book for them!!!
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is the start of Klara and Vlad's story. 5 year old Klara is taken in by Vlad and his family when he kills her father for being a traitor. The story starts when Klara is almost 21 and they are both starting to see each other in a different light. The sparks fly, and neither of them can deny their connection. There is some dancing around each other, some mafia drama/violence, some sexy and some sad times...and we get a cliffy.
POV: This alternated between Klara and Vlad's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Ok. I thought it was slow starting, but I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well otherwise.
Instalove: No, they've known each other for years.
H rating: 3.5 stars. Vlad. I liked him, but I wish he was more up-front with the h.
h rating: 3.5 stars. Klara. I liked her, but there were a few times that I wanted her to be a little stronger when it came to the H.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed.
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
Safe sex: No
OW/OM drama: Yes
Sex scene with OW or OM: Yes
Cheating: No
Separation: Yes, very short (days?). They still live in same house though.
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This had a cliffhanger. It wasn't the worst cliffy I've experienced, but we definitely aren't left with closure here.
How I got it: It was part of my kindle unlimited subscription.
Safety: This one is probably Not Safe for most of the safety gang.
February 7, 2017
4 Stars!
Loved this one and can't wait for more. Why not 5 stars? Well I wish I could say I felt the love between Vlad and Klara but I didn't. But I still really enjoyed. Vlad is complicated. lol
Even though this one ends on a cliff that didn't really leave my mouth hanging open it still leaves you wanting more. I can't wait to get to know Liam in the next book:))
Loved this one and can't wait for more. Why not 5 stars? Well I wish I could say I felt the love between Vlad and Klara but I didn't. But I still really enjoyed. Vlad is complicated. lol
Even though this one ends on a cliff that didn't really leave my mouth hanging open it still leaves you wanting more. I can't wait to get to know Liam in the next book:))
February 6, 2017
Ah man a cliffy?!??
So good, but darn now I have to wait to see what is going to happen!
Interesting read with lots of ups and downs. It is brutal in some spots. Mafia is a big part of the story. It isn't just mentioned it is the life of the story.
I will read the next.
So good, but darn now I have to wait to see what is going to happen!
Interesting read with lots of ups and downs. It is brutal in some spots. Mafia is a big part of the story. It isn't just mentioned it is the life of the story.
I will read the next.
February 6, 2017
2.5 stars
I wasn't feeling the chemistry with Vlad and Klara. Aside from that there were a few reasons their relationship was messed up. Vlad had her father killed when she was 5. Klara walked in on it, so she knew it happened. He didn't raise her himself, but she lived in his home with his family after he killed her dad and sent her mother away. He avoided her at all costs until she was an adult and he realized how beautiful she was. Who the hell falls in love with the guy who does that? She should have hated him instead of being entranced by his sexiness.
Vlad had a son who was 4 years younger than Klara. They were raised like siblings. That's just creepy on Vlad's part. I felt bad for the son because it must have been weird as hell. Vlad was a complete asshole. There were never moments of him being nice. Klara seemed younger than her 21 years, which made the relationship even more disturbing. However her naivete made sense considering she was extremely sheltered for her whole life.
The mafia part of it was okay. Vlad was one of those people who underestimated his enemies and associates. Even when others hinted they thought people were capable of more he didn't believe it. Many of the bad things that happened could have been avoided if he had been proactive.
I wasn't feeling the chemistry with Vlad and Klara. Aside from that there were a few reasons their relationship was messed up. Vlad had her father killed when she was 5. Klara walked in on it, so she knew it happened. He didn't raise her himself, but she lived in his home with his family after he killed her dad and sent her mother away. He avoided her at all costs until she was an adult and he realized how beautiful she was. Who the hell falls in love with the guy who does that? She should have hated him instead of being entranced by his sexiness.
Vlad had a son who was 4 years younger than Klara. They were raised like siblings. That's just creepy on Vlad's part. I felt bad for the son because it must have been weird as hell. Vlad was a complete asshole. There were never moments of him being nice. Klara seemed younger than her 21 years, which made the relationship even more disturbing. However her naivete made sense considering she was extremely sheltered for her whole life.
The mafia part of it was okay. Vlad was one of those people who underestimated his enemies and associates. Even when others hinted they thought people were capable of more he didn't believe it. Many of the bad things that happened could have been avoided if he had been proactive.
February 6, 2017
5 Jaw Dropping Stars!
Wow!!!! AC Bextor just punched me in the heart with so many different emotions; Sadness, anger, hurt, laughter, kindness, love, meaning of family, and REVENGE!!!! My jaw dropped, hit the floor and it took me a while to pick it back!!!
I don’t want to give too much away… There were a number of characters in the story and let’s just say you will have a mixture of different feelings for each one. Some you will love, hate/love, want to kill and smack up-side the head.
Vlad (H), possessive, a man who does not easily trust, a ruthless man in business and protector of what is his; family! Once you are in his inner circle/his family. There is nothing this man wouldn’t do to make sure you are protected... You see all sides to Vlad in this story!!! And boy can he be a Monster!!! But no matter you will fall in LOVE with this man!
Klara (h), has seen/been through a lot at her young age. The tragedy she witnessed did not change her! She grew up to be a strong, kind and loving woman who's heart is so huge for those she loves and considers family!
If you have read AC Bextor’s books you know you will not be disappointed. She will leave aching for more Vlad! Can’t wait for the second book!!
Keep on keeping on AC!!! I sure do love you!!! <3 :)
Wow!!!! AC Bextor just punched me in the heart with so many different emotions; Sadness, anger, hurt, laughter, kindness, love, meaning of family, and REVENGE!!!! My jaw dropped, hit the floor and it took me a while to pick it back!!!
I don’t want to give too much away… There were a number of characters in the story and let’s just say you will have a mixture of different feelings for each one. Some you will love, hate/love, want to kill and smack up-side the head.
Vlad (H), possessive, a man who does not easily trust, a ruthless man in business and protector of what is his; family! Once you are in his inner circle/his family. There is nothing this man wouldn’t do to make sure you are protected... You see all sides to Vlad in this story!!! And boy can he be a Monster!!! But no matter you will fall in LOVE with this man!
Klara (h), has seen/been through a lot at her young age. The tragedy she witnessed did not change her! She grew up to be a strong, kind and loving woman who's heart is so huge for those she loves and considers family!
If you have read AC Bextor’s books you know you will not be disappointed. She will leave aching for more Vlad! Can’t wait for the second book!!
Keep on keeping on AC!!! I sure do love you!!! <3 :)
January 7, 2017
EAK is the first story I've read by this author. From the prologue Bextor had an unbreakable grip on my senses. As I read this story, I felt as if I was back in one of my beloved ungrad lit classes! I absolutely love the word flow! The words massage as well as present a story in a genre where word flow comparable to poetry is not the "norm".
EAK is a Mafia story. A very graphic and dramatic one. Vlad is wow! A Russian powerhouse. He and his word is LAW. Klara has been a part of Vlad's household since age 5. How and why? That's a very interesting story and very well explained in the beginning of the story. Lots of intrigue and danger before anything remotely romantic occurs between Vlad and Klara. Vlad is not soft. He only knows how to use and discard. I am completely in love with this guy. He's an alpha among alphas!
EAK has earned a place on the mafia Hall of Fame list. The story is graphic, tragic, and beautifully written! The characters are very well developed, extremely realistic, and just plain ole fabulous! I must convey the kill scenes although written poetically, the scenes are seriously graphic and messed up! Thank the book gods! It's the mafia and there's nothing pretty or romantic about the mafia!
Five amazing stars!
EAK is a Mafia story. A very graphic and dramatic one. Vlad is wow! A Russian powerhouse. He and his word is LAW. Klara has been a part of Vlad's household since age 5. How and why? That's a very interesting story and very well explained in the beginning of the story. Lots of intrigue and danger before anything remotely romantic occurs between Vlad and Klara. Vlad is not soft. He only knows how to use and discard. I am completely in love with this guy. He's an alpha among alphas!
EAK has earned a place on the mafia Hall of Fame list. The story is graphic, tragic, and beautifully written! The characters are very well developed, extremely realistic, and just plain ole fabulous! I must convey the kill scenes although written poetically, the scenes are seriously graphic and messed up! Thank the book gods! It's the mafia and there's nothing pretty or romantic about the mafia!
Five amazing stars!
October 2, 2017
Mafia books are my kinda books and I really enjoyed them.
The story was really attractive, apart from the main two characters that narrate the story, there were a number of characters that I had a mixture of different feelings for each one. I laughed, and cried with them.
overall it was a promising start and I'm looking forward to seeing what comes next.
I'm not sure how this is the first book I read by this author. I must have more of her books!
The story was really attractive, apart from the main two characters that narrate the story, there were a number of characters that I had a mixture of different feelings for each one. I laughed, and cried with them.
overall it was a promising start and I'm looking forward to seeing what comes next.
I'm not sure how this is the first book I read by this author. I must have more of her books!
July 10, 2024
Vlad Zalesky, 35 years, is the head of the Zalesky crime family, a Russian mafia organization in Chicago. Vlad is young to be the boss Being only thirty-five years old, I’m the youngest Zalesky to have been given an operation of his own. I’m charged to handle one of our family’s smaller units, made up of only thirty men, give or take.
Vlad has ensured himself with the loyalty of the men around him while owning up to his responsibilities toward them. I’ve never truly wondered why Vlad’s men have always remained so loyal. He’s not a nice man.
Klara Koslief, 20 years, is the daughter of a traitor and Vlad’s first victim. She was taking into the Zalesky home and looked after by Vlad’s sister Faina. Vlad, Vee as Klara calls him, stays away from little Klara and seemingly takes very little interest in her.
The doe-eyed daughter of the first man I ever ordered to be killed, has lived in this house if only to taunt me. Her bright smile, playful but defiant demeanor, as well as her vibrant and youthful everyday presence in my home.
When Klara turns 21, Faina throws her a birthday party, where she shares a dance with Vlad.
Looking down at me with eyes fueled with fire, Vee’s chest grazes mine when he takes in a startled breath. “Christ, Klara,” he hisses, and I frown. “You could tempt the heart of a saint in that dress.”
Klara’s childish fascination with Vee, changes overnight into adult lust and attraction and Vee becomes Vlad.
She said my name. She said it as a woman, not a child. No longer am I the monster Vee I once was, but a man she came here to find. If Klara were to attempt an escape, I wouldn’t let her. I couldn’t. A woman as beautiful as she is, as smart and perceptive, must have already come to this foregone conclusion. The moment she willingly stepped foot inside this cabin, Klara became the helpless prey to my animalistic desire.
Empires and Kings told in dual POV is not only a story about the importance of family but also of cold revenge accompanied by downright betrayal, utter sadness, deep hurt and sheer anger.
As well as blooming love, great laughter and perfect camaraderie.
The story does not end here, great danger, in the form of a rival mafia organization, is looming around the corner.
Part of the Mafia Series and must be read in order:
February 5, 2017
I think I like where this is going...
This was a pretty good mafia/organized crime family romance.
There was a bunch of blood and violence. There were some intimate moments between the main love interests, Vlad & Klara. There was also just a lot of story that was started up, and then left to be resolved in the next two books. I'm very interested to see where everything goes because so much could happen.
So much happened in this story itself and this was just the set up. If you're looking for a super deep love connection I wouldn't say that this is it. I was more interested in the feud between the families and the plot going on there. The love story is interesting, it just isn't stand out IMO.
Can I have more Liam? It'd be interesting to see the next bit of the story from his POV. Like from another families side.
February 6, 2017
***This and other reviews can be found at www.imasweetandsassybookwhore.com ***
*ARC*
So this is one of those hard reviews to write. I love dark romances and I love mafia romances as well so I should have absolutely loved Empires and Kings but in reality this was not the case. There was a lot going on in this book and I think that was the problem because it caused it to be long and drawn out and it was a bit all over the place for me. Vlad and Klara’s relationship felt forced, and while I am usually all for an asshole Hero in a book he just wasn’t one that I could love. Klara was weak and at times I don’t want to say that she was dumb so let’s go with naïve to the point that I wanted to slap her silly and teach her things, what those things would be are too many to even list.
I wanted so much more from this book, not length but development and a more well thought out storyline. The author also leaves the ending open as to there will be a second book, and if there is I hope it is better thought out than this one was because too much going on ruined it for me.
*ARC*
So this is one of those hard reviews to write. I love dark romances and I love mafia romances as well so I should have absolutely loved Empires and Kings but in reality this was not the case. There was a lot going on in this book and I think that was the problem because it caused it to be long and drawn out and it was a bit all over the place for me. Vlad and Klara’s relationship felt forced, and while I am usually all for an asshole Hero in a book he just wasn’t one that I could love. Klara was weak and at times I don’t want to say that she was dumb so let’s go with naïve to the point that I wanted to slap her silly and teach her things, what those things would be are too many to even list.
I wanted so much more from this book, not length but development and a more well thought out storyline. The author also leaves the ending open as to there will be a second book, and if there is I hope it is better thought out than this one was because too much going on ruined it for me.
January 8, 2017
AMAZING!!! A.C.Bextor does not disappoint.
This book has it all love, hope, hurt, sadness, anger, and family. Vlad is a hard man made who he is by the family he read born in and Veni his son is the kindest sweetest young man, you can see how large his heart is regardless of how hard he k owe his dad is in business. And Faina is a feisty and headstrong sister and aunt and friend, this woman may have come from a hard family but she knows how to make the best of the life she has been delt.
Klara is also sweet and headstrong. She may have had heartache and the right to have hatred and be angry but she has taken what life has thrown at her and become and beautiful soul. I love the story of love and hope and understanding that this story portrays.
I can not wait to read more and more, way to go A.C you've knocked this out of the park.
This book has it all love, hope, hurt, sadness, anger, and family. Vlad is a hard man made who he is by the family he read born in and Veni his son is the kindest sweetest young man, you can see how large his heart is regardless of how hard he k owe his dad is in business. And Faina is a feisty and headstrong sister and aunt and friend, this woman may have come from a hard family but she knows how to make the best of the life she has been delt.
Klara is also sweet and headstrong. She may have had heartache and the right to have hatred and be angry but she has taken what life has thrown at her and become and beautiful soul. I love the story of love and hope and understanding that this story portrays.
I can not wait to read more and more, way to go A.C you've knocked this out of the park.
February 5, 2017
How come I've only read one other book by this author? I'm sure my friends could have nudged me to read more. Anyway this was a really great mafia read. I read this in one sitting as I couldn't put it down.
After murdering a traitor Vlad ends up with the traitors daughter Kiara. He lets her live in his house but gives her a wide berth. When he starts seeing her for the beautiful woman that she is growing into everything changes. It's not a mafia story without suspense and violence and we certainly got that in this story.
I'm so looking forward to reading more of this story and my fingers are crossed I don't have to wait too long.
After murdering a traitor Vlad ends up with the traitors daughter Kiara. He lets her live in his house but gives her a wide berth. When he starts seeing her for the beautiful woman that she is growing into everything changes. It's not a mafia story without suspense and violence and we certainly got that in this story.
I'm so looking forward to reading more of this story and my fingers are crossed I don't have to wait too long.
September 17, 2018
This was a okay read. the storyline was good but the ending was much to be desired. I won't even bother to read the 2nd book of this series, it's just not worth the time or effort.
Overall rating:
3*~ Okay Read
Overall rating:
3*~ Okay Read
June 6, 2021
3.5 stars
February 10, 2017
This is my first time reading Bextor. And I can't wait to read book two in this series. This was an excellent start to this slightly dark, slightly romantic, well written mafia story. I honestly couldn't put it down.
Klara was left in the mafia family her father had betrayed. She had seen his fate of branding, torture and left to die. Yet she grew up loyal to the family that claimed her.
Vlad, a young man groomed to follow in his fathers foot steps. He is a few years older then Klara, yet when she has her 21st birthday party he stakes his claim. As you can imagine it's not going to be an easy transition for either of them.
The story ends with a family death, and a vow of vengeance that just makes you want to continue to the next book. An easy 5 star read for me.
Klara was left in the mafia family her father had betrayed. She had seen his fate of branding, torture and left to die. Yet she grew up loyal to the family that claimed her.
Vlad, a young man groomed to follow in his fathers foot steps. He is a few years older then Klara, yet when she has her 21st birthday party he stakes his claim. As you can imagine it's not going to be an easy transition for either of them.
The story ends with a family death, and a vow of vengeance that just makes you want to continue to the next book. An easy 5 star read for me.
February 13, 2017
This is A.C. Bextor at her best. I read the 'Lights in Peril' series and really enjoyed it. This one was even better. You come to love all of the characters within the story and your heart breaks toward the end at the tragic loss of one of them.
The story is Mafia based and you see all the good and bad that comes from that lifestyle. If you like Mafia- themed stories this is a must read.
A 5-star plus read!!
The story is Mafia based and you see all the good and bad that comes from that lifestyle. If you like Mafia- themed stories this is a must read.
A 5-star plus read!!
January 6, 2018
I'm rounding up to 4 stars.
This book started out a bit slow for me. I usually love mafia romances but this one didn't have it all in the first 60%
Vlad runs his "family" Russian mafia. Be orders Klaras father killed early in the book and keeps her. He succeeds in keeping his distance from the traitors daughter until he sees the woman she has become.
there is a lot of push and pull with Vlad fighting his attraction to Klara.
There is Love , Hate, Anger, Sadness, Hurt, Happiness, Redemption, and Vengeance in this book
This book started out a bit slow for me. I usually love mafia romances but this one didn't have it all in the first 60%
Vlad runs his "family" Russian mafia. Be orders Klaras father killed early in the book and keeps her. He succeeds in keeping his distance from the traitors daughter until he sees the woman she has become.
there is a lot of push and pull with Vlad fighting his attraction to Klara.
There is Love , Hate, Anger, Sadness, Hurt, Happiness, Redemption, and Vengeance in this book
November 14, 2017
3.5 "Z" stars.
"I was the young girl left behind. A living piece of the traitorous puzzle the Russian leader tried so diligently to ignore."
So this was my first A.C. Bextor and I can say with full certainty that it won't be my last.
My relationship with this book was a love-hate one. While I loved the plot and all the fuckery surrounding the main couple, I didn't quite feel the connection between Vlad and Klara. If I had to choose between them, I would choose Vlad, daddy issues and all. Klara was just... annoying.
The sexual tension was so strong, but once they did the deed, it was over. I would have loved to see more of their growth as a couple.
There was something that happened, where I didn't know whether to hate or stand up and applaud the author for daring to do what she did. It was refreshing, however, painful.
So after all the ups and downs, I finally got to the end. It wasn't an exact HEA as I was expecting. What I got was a kind of open ending. It was good but not enough for me.
Overall, I really enjoyed Empires and Kings, A.C Bextor's writing helped a lot. It was truly addictive. So if you like Mafia-themed romances with a big asshole as a hero, then you'll probably enjoy this one.
"I'm permissively walking into the demon's den, reaching for his hand, and begging without shame for him to keep hold of mine with every step."
February 27, 2017
OMG...can anyone say "Regency Romance" 3x really fast???
THIS BOOK.
Such a bodice ripper in disguise.
Brooding, wealthy, alpha H. Check.
Dangerous and violent, too. Check.
Virginal "ward" h. Check.
Occasionally TSTL. Check.
Sometimes has backbone. Check.
Almost a doormat. Check.
Evil mistress (Hooker OW). Check.
h's father is a traitor. Check.
H's son is home tutored. Check.
H's father denying H the h. Check.
H's sis is BFFs with h. Check.
H's son is BFFs with h. Check.
H's staff loves the sweet h. Check.
Debut ball/party for h. Check.
Where they waltz. Check
AND where H stakes claim. Check.
Large, gated estate. Check.
Hunting lodge. Check.
Kidnapping of h. Check.
Murder of side characters. Check.
Flowery speech/writing. Check.
You feel me???
Regency romance at its finest!!!
But, hold up, it's really about...
A Russian, bratva king in love with a traitor's daughter where blood is shed intermittently and women are sold as sex slaves...except the ladies are fine with their lives of prostitution. Ok, even that could be Regency in St. Petersburg.
WAIT...they drove cars at one point, so I KNOW it's a modern setting.
I'm still giving it 3.5 stars cuz it held my attention ;)
All joking aside, I actually liked the timeless feel of the novel...it never really felt modern, but it had enough touches to remind me it wasn't a historical. The storyline was entertaining enough I will definitely read the sequel.
I liked the H for the most part, but he's a no-go for you SG Ladies. He's with an OW at least twice after he begins to notice the h. (More in spoilers).
On a side note tho - The H knew Joseph was interested in finding the h but never even consider him a suspect over Ciro until H's father discovered the link?!? (*eye-roll*) H is a badass Bratva King...that's sloppy and unbelievable given the H's character. And letting Katrina go free the first time...a fuck up of gargantuan proportions. Another thing I can't see this H doing...not after the scene with Thomas in the brothel.
SG Ladies...
the next bits are for you:
Implied sex between H/OW right after H/h have their first "moment" when the H first admits he finds her attractive and the h knows he's going off to fuck the OW.
I can almost get past the second scene with the OW (graphic) if it hadn't happened in the way it did. However, it's the same night as the h's party and they danced and he admitted he wanted her and it looked like they were going to reach an understanding, but then the uninvited OW shows up and the H hauls her out of the party never to return. AND THEN...he fucks the OW in the kitchen later that night where the h stumbles across it. (on her birthday when he'd forbidden the OW entry to the party but she came anyway. Nice way to reward the OW and punish the h.) The sex turned ugly as soon as the H knew the h was there.
After their separation, when he threatens to whip her and she breaks it off with him...he's tired of waiting for her to see it his way and he forced the issue sexually. I hate it when the H uses the h's body's responses against her. Then he leaves her hanging after getting his to teach her another lesson (o_O)
My biggest OW issue (though none are involved) is: I would have liked the H/h to make up after he meets Killian at his brothel because I wanted to see him walk away from easy women to prove some type of devotion/commitment from him to the h. Instead he takes her from her room the night before he's supposed to go to the brothel and forces the confrontation (mentioned above) between them. The timing would have meant more to me as a reader in believing his sincere interest in the h if he'd waited to force the issue until he came back and hadn't fucked an OW. He'd threatened the h with OW if she didn't put out before he went there...so this needed better resolution for me :/ Now I'm wondering about my rating...
THIS BOOK.
Such a bodice ripper in disguise.
Brooding, wealthy, alpha H. Check.
Dangerous and violent, too. Check.
Virginal "ward" h. Check.
Occasionally TSTL. Check.
Sometimes has backbone. Check.
Almost a doormat. Check.
Evil mistress (Hooker OW). Check.
h's father is a traitor. Check.
H's son is home tutored. Check.
H's father denying H the h. Check.
H's sis is BFFs with h. Check.
H's son is BFFs with h. Check.
H's staff loves the sweet h. Check.
Debut ball/party for h. Check.
Where they waltz. Check
AND where H stakes claim. Check.
Large, gated estate. Check.
Hunting lodge. Check.
Kidnapping of h. Check.
Murder of side characters. Check.
Flowery speech/writing. Check.
You feel me???
Regency romance at its finest!!!
But, hold up, it's really about...
A Russian, bratva king in love with a traitor's daughter where blood is shed intermittently and women are sold as sex slaves...except the ladies are fine with their lives of prostitution. Ok, even that could be Regency in St. Petersburg.
WAIT...they drove cars at one point, so I KNOW it's a modern setting.
I'm still giving it 3.5 stars cuz it held my attention ;)
All joking aside, I actually liked the timeless feel of the novel...it never really felt modern, but it had enough touches to remind me it wasn't a historical. The storyline was entertaining enough I will definitely read the sequel.
I liked the H for the most part, but he's a no-go for you SG Ladies. He's with an OW at least twice after he begins to notice the h. (More in spoilers).
On a side note tho - The H knew Joseph was interested in finding the h but never even consider him a suspect over Ciro until H's father discovered the link?!? (*eye-roll*) H is a badass Bratva King...that's sloppy and unbelievable given the H's character. And letting Katrina go free the first time...a fuck up of gargantuan proportions. Another thing I can't see this H doing...not after the scene with Thomas in the brothel.
SG Ladies...
the next bits are for you:
Implied sex between H/OW right after H/h have their first "moment" when the H first admits he finds her attractive and the h knows he's going off to fuck the OW.
I can almost get past the second scene with the OW (graphic) if it hadn't happened in the way it did. However, it's the same night as the h's party and they danced and he admitted he wanted her and it looked like they were going to reach an understanding, but then the uninvited OW shows up and the H hauls her out of the party never to return. AND THEN...he fucks the OW in the kitchen later that night where the h stumbles across it. (on her birthday when he'd forbidden the OW entry to the party but she came anyway. Nice way to reward the OW and punish the h.) The sex turned ugly as soon as the H knew the h was there.
After their separation, when he threatens to whip her and she breaks it off with him...he's tired of waiting for her to see it his way and he forced the issue sexually. I hate it when the H uses the h's body's responses against her. Then he leaves her hanging after getting his to teach her another lesson (o_O)
My biggest OW issue (though none are involved) is: I would have liked the H/h to make up after he meets Killian at his brothel because I wanted to see him walk away from easy women to prove some type of devotion/commitment from him to the h. Instead he takes her from her room the night before he's supposed to go to the brothel and forces the confrontation (mentioned above) between them. The timing would have meant more to me as a reader in believing his sincere interest in the h if he'd waited to force the issue until he came back and hadn't fucked an OW. He'd threatened the h with OW if she didn't put out before he went there...so this needed better resolution for me :/ Now I'm wondering about my rating...
February 6, 2017
I loved Empires and Kings! I was captured right away by this story and characters. I really enjoyed the way the story is written. There is so much more than just the romance aspect... it's about the relationships inside of this "family." It's suspenseful, and intense at times. I believe this is part of a trilogy, and typically the first book is usually laying all the groundwork which I felt this book did wonderfully. I am connected to these characters, I love them, I hate them, I feel their pain. I can only image what's in store for the next two books and I can't wait to find out!!
August 5, 2019
Would have liked a solid ending for the H and h but still a decent read.
June 8, 2017
This novel left me with all sorts of feelings and that's because I didn't and still don't know what to expect. In a way, that's good because it has the potential to shock or surprise me but then it reads like there is no direction, like we are just making it up as we go along. I sincerely don't understand the lines or families in this novel but I want to.
Vlad and Klara are unique in more than their relationship but I gravitate more towards Vlad because the man never strays from his beliefs and my imagination is quite the place as I picture him wielding that whip! Reason aside, that could have been some seriously steamy kink!
I am a firm believer in picking a side. If you're good then be in a rom-com. If you're gonna be bad, then stick with and by your man but I find that I give Klara a pass because her stubbornness gave her character as oppose to the bowl of oatmeal she would have been without it.
I don't know how far this series will go and there are more "innocents" than there are mafioso and outlaw bikers, even they have a conscience, but my interest is piqued enough to continue even if it isn't the most exciting or well executed novel.
Vlad and Klara are unique in more than their relationship but I gravitate more towards Vlad because the man never strays from his beliefs and my imagination is quite the place as I picture him wielding that whip! Reason aside, that could have been some seriously steamy kink!
I am a firm believer in picking a side. If you're good then be in a rom-com. If you're gonna be bad, then stick with and by your man but I find that I give Klara a pass because her stubbornness gave her character as oppose to the bowl of oatmeal she would have been without it.
I don't know how far this series will go and there are more "innocents" than there are mafioso and outlaw bikers, even they have a conscience, but my interest is piqued enough to continue even if it isn't the most exciting or well executed novel.
March 31, 2018
OMG
Klara was the perfect innocent heroine in this story. She had a great heart and showed her emotions to everyone.
Enter Vlad aka Vee. This is an alpha male at his finest. Leader of his Mafia group, he leads with a strong presence but loving heart. He truly loved his family and his soldiers but because of his own father had a hard expressing himself.
Great book. Totally recommend this
Klara was the perfect innocent heroine in this story. She had a great heart and showed her emotions to everyone.
Enter Vlad aka Vee. This is an alpha male at his finest. Leader of his Mafia group, he leads with a strong presence but loving heart. He truly loved his family and his soldiers but because of his own father had a hard expressing himself.
Great book. Totally recommend this
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