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Peacock

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Going in blind is a rookie mistake. With my years of experience, you would think I should know better by now. I'm always the capable one that can handle anything that's thrown my way, until Karma throws me off my game.My Karma comes in the form of a woman and she has to be payback for all the shitty things I’ve done in my life. Not just any woman but one who is determined to self-destruct. This woman is clearly going to be my downfall. Leaving me to find myself not only losing my heart, but risking my life in the process.There’s no other option than to claw our way through dilemmas that might leave the both of us wondering if our next breath could be our last. We relish in the fact that we’ve got nothing to lose, because let’s face it… The faults of our sins will catch up with us in the end.**This intense, standalone romance is not for the faint of heart. You've been warned.**Want more Peacock? Be sure to check out The Dudnik Circle, Peacock makes an appearance in each book in this mafia romance series. The Dudnik Circle “world” is complete. All books can be read as a complete standalone story featuring a new couple. Order of release for a greater reading “Ford” The Dudnik Circle #1Peacock (The Faults Of Our Sins)“Yegor” The Dudnik Circle #2“Afon” The Dudnik Circle #3Marlon (Neon Marksman MC)Ricca (In Loyalty Lies Trust)

273 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 24, 2017

46 people are currently reading
252 people want to read

About the author

Esther E. Schmidt

200 books1,494 followers
Esther E. Schmidt is an USA Today bestselling author who loves to write MC (biker) series, Mafia Romance series, PNR series, contemporary romance series, and more. She's a graphic designer that also loves to write. She released her first series "Areion Fury MC" in October 2015. Esther lives in The Netherlands with her family, three daughters, and a crazy iguana. She loves to write about bad boy Alphas with a heart for only one woman. To make it a bit interesting, that woman needs to be a badass herself.

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
Profile Image for ♡Tonya♡.
2,062 reviews568 followers
March 24, 2017
** IT'S LIVE! **

** ARC RECEIVED IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW **

Now that was action packed!   Esther Schmidt kept me on the edge of my seat from the first page.  I honestly didn't know what was going to happen next.  This series is definitely more intense and darker than her other series but it works with the environment the story takes place in.

Peacock (Godrik) was a dominant alpha male.  We learned in Ford that he was a Dom and participated in the BDSM lifestyle.   That wasn't a focus in this story and I was thankful for that.   Karma brought something into his life that kept him fulfilled.  I did think he was quick to believe the worst of Karma (he had a legit reason) and treated her pretty badly on occasion because he thought she was betraying him. 

Karma (Yesfir) was a ball of fire.   She wasn't taking any of Peacock's crap at first.   I was afraid she was going to push him away for a long time but that was not the case.  She was raised by her uncle and used as a pawn.   I felt for her when I learned the horrible violent things that happened to her.  I was glad when she and Peacock FINALLY got on the same page.

-no cheating
-no ow/om drama
-pushing away by both on separate occasions but it did not last long
-violence - it involved Russian gangs and a MC club so no one should be surprised by this fact
-HFN ending - I wanted an epilogue with a HEA. I know these stories tie together but we never get a good look at their lives.  I was disappointed at the end :(
An epilogue would have pushed this to 5 stars.

**in this story we meet Marlon and Unique who has a story coming soon.  I totally appreciated that Ms Schmidt kept Marlon from being with others after he met his heroine.   They weren't a couple yet but he knew he wanted her.  THAT is a real man-he doesn't have to skank around and he fights for the woman he wants!!
We also didn't have to see the secondary characters being nasty manwhores. 
Profile Image for Jos.
1,837 reviews141 followers
March 27, 2017
5 Hell Yes Stars!!!!!!
Slight Spoilers Ahead, maybe for some, maybe not for others! You re Warned:

I FLOVED Peacock and "Karma", I mean LOVED. I was totally taken aback as to what Karma's background was and when we finally get it, I was stunned, intrigued, heartbroken BUT at that moment, I GOT what made her so damned cocky. BUT I was thrown for another loop, when another "twist" came into play after they got "close".

Peacock was just.....ahhhhh all alpha male, SO sexy and sure of himself and I was just swooning over him from start to finish. Karma, once I got where here "attitude" came from, I was loving this girl. I loved that she didn't keep her secrets locked up for long. her honesty with Peacock was refreshing and made me connect with her that much more.

The storyline was great, flowed seamlessly and kept my attention all the way through. I loved that it was also a fairly quick read and loved the intro into Marlon's story. Not gonna lie, Unique was on my nerves so I sure hope in Marlon's story, she won't be as annoying as she was in this book. Sorry, nothing bothers me more than when a perfectly great story and smoking hot H gets saddled with an annoying h and I sure hope that won't be the case for him, lol!!!!

Congrats Author Esther E. Schmidt, this was a Grand Slam read for me:)
Profile Image for Emily.
5,922 reviews553 followers
March 5, 2017
Peacock doesn't know who he took on when he agreed to take Karma. Karma is a pistol Peacock is anxiously waiting to tame but once he thinks he has her pegged she surprises him. However, Karma has secrets and Peacock is put in a position on whether he can trust her or will she ultimately betray him?

I don't want to put too much of the details of the story out there because it will spoil it for readers. I will say I was surprised by this story, loved Peacock and Karma. Karma puts up a good fight with Peacock because she has never been in this position before. You are also introduced to Marlon and Unique, I can't wait for their book. Pure fun, it is full of sizzle and different from the other books in this series.
Profile Image for Mindy McCray .
1,159 reviews10 followers
March 20, 2017
This book is AMAZING! I love Peacock and Karma's story.

Peacock took on Karma as a favor to her uncle.

Karma is a strong, feisty, kicka** chick with the I don't give a sh*t attitude who does the job her uncle tells her to.

I loved Karma, dont get me wrong, I loved Peacock also. But Karma was my favorite. I want to be her when I grow up, well minus all "Jobs" ;)

I can't wait for Marlon and Unique's story!
Profile Image for Neringa Neringiukas.
1,213 reviews85 followers
February 25, 2017
The story starts... Well, it grabs you by the balls with no ease on the grip. Lol. It was fun to see Peacocks reaction to the girl, he agreed to claim, in Fords book. And the first chapter starts with more fun. Why? Because... Well, he nicknamed her Karma. So, you can guess, Peacock has his hands full with his crazy girl. But there is more to Karma. When true about her life was revealed, I was close to tears. It did pained me, but also I was proud of how strong she was. I even love her dark and twisted side. Karma was a perfect girl for Peacock. They supplemented each other. And talking about Peacock... Yeah, I added him to my favourite heroes list. Which is growing because Esther continues to throw perfections my way. After all this time and all her guys hiting jackpot, I think I finally got a clue to make room for more in the future. Another clue, Marlon. Esther continues to kill me with her endings. Which for your information isn't actual ending at all! Instead of you being happy with HEA you got, which I am BTW, you're kept on your toes for the next journey. Never ending journey. Because you always ending up thirsty for more.
Profile Image for Whitney Cannavina.
Author 8 books127 followers
March 12, 2017
I received an ARC for an honest review
Review by Country Gals BOOK Blog

Karma is a real B.... but she's worth the trouble. Peacock (Godrick) takes Karma in to take her. She's moody, talks back, and crazy but she's a challenge meant for Peacock to tame. As secrets are revealed, Karma and Godrick have to learn to trust each other.

I wasn't sure what to expect having a girl Hitman but she's badass and I love her attitude. Karma can definitely hold her own against these big, bad men. Godrick is the perfect compliment to her never forcing, but pushing her out of her comfort zone so she can really understand herself. He doesn't hold her back either which I love. These two had great chemistry and through the story, you can see it. The storyline was different than any I've read and had me glued to the pages from the first page. There are a few twist to keep you on your toes and the supporting characters were a fun addition. Love this story.
Profile Image for Fran Gray.
277 reviews13 followers
March 20, 2017
Peacock is the "top dog". The leader of a well known and highly "influential" gang; he is always in control...in charge...that goes for inside and outside of the bedroom too.

Karma is a "machine"..a mere cog in her Uncle's empire. Destroyed by a job gone wrong, she is done.

Feisty and not will to take shit from anyone Karma is sent away. When she lands on his door step as a"favor" both knowing the score; but neither expected to feel anything but what they deserve...an atonement for their sins.

Blind faith..jumping in feet first...not smart in this world...but definitely a sure fire way to end up six feet under.

Peacock and Karma are perfect for one another. She keeps him on his toes; he helps her heal; and they both keep one another in check.

The added bonus scorching hot..highly erotic sex!
Profile Image for Philomena Callan Cheekypee.
4,025 reviews434 followers
May 1, 2018
This is my first and will certainly not be my last read by this author. I couldn't get enough of this story.

Peacock was ready for a change in his life so when he was offered Karma by her uncle he couldn't and didn't want to refuse. From the first moment he met her she consumed him. Instead of reading up about her he went in blind which will come back on him later on.

I thought these two were super good together. Both are strong characters which I loved. They need to trust one another to move forward but that's harder then they thought. Karma also needs to move on from her past which isn't easy.

Brilliant storyline with main characters I clicked with straight away. The secondary characters are awesome too.

I'm so looking forward to book two which is about Marlon and Unique. From the little we've seen if these two together I'm sure it's going to be an interesting ride :)
Profile Image for May Reads Books.
684 reviews
May 23, 2017
4/5
Dark dirty safe read
-OTT alpha male
-Bad ass h
-push and pull between both
-No OW Drama
-Dark themed
-rape and abuse triggers
-tons of LoL and OMG moments
-HFN no epilogue for this couple
Profile Image for Wendy Hodges.
2,923 reviews44 followers
March 6, 2017
Another amazing story by Esther, full of action and surprises.
Peacock has an ego to match his nickname, he is tough, rough and mean on the surface but underneath he still has a heart. He is a Dom through and through when it comes to sex, but if called for probably has more understanding of what a woman needs, even if that means vanilla to start with.
Yesfir has had a rotten upbringing, completely controlled from a very young age and programed to be a killer on command. No love has been shown to her so trust is also an issue, it is something she has no understanding of.
These two characters are well suited once they start to get to know each other and work through all the issues both have. I loved them both, I also liked Marlon and Unique especially the fireworks they create between them. I very much look forward to their story.
There is some extreme violence in this story as well as sexual content, though most of that considering the BDSM angle is quite tame for one of Esther's books. But it does also include some abuse content but not in massive detail, more it being told than when it was actually happening. I love the passion that Esther writes with, you can feel the energy just bursting off the pages of her books, not just this one but all of them. I never hesitate to recommend her stories, I have followed and read from the very first and never been disappointed with any of them this one included. My enthusiasm has me chaffing at the bit to get the next one even before its finished. I now wait with great anticipation for the next one. Great read as always.
Profile Image for Michelle Brace .
1,736 reviews15 followers
March 28, 2017
This couple may be one of my favorite that Esther has created yet. Both of them are people who don't take anyone's crap. The things that are revealed and everything that takes place as we read this book will have you completely engrossed in this book. If you have never read a book by Esther you will be perfectly fine reading this book but she does some really great work and you will want to read more.

Peacock is used to women who are subservient to him. He has another thing coming when it comes to Karma. She is a complex person and has been through so much in her life that it has really caused some major issues with her. Peacock is going to have to wade through it all and hopefully help her if he wants a future with her. The problem though is if she will let him in or if he will make it worse. She is definitely his equal for sure and they are going to have to find some sort of common ground where they are going to make anything work between them.

I really hope that we get Unique's story soon. She was an awesome secondary character amongst a few that I know will have a great story. I highly recommend this book!
Profile Image for Sassy Southern Book Blog.
5,450 reviews275 followers
March 24, 2017
4.5 Stars!!!
I was immediately drawn to the book by the name and I was not disappointed! I'm new to this author and I was pleasantly surprised on how much I really enjoyed the book. Things I loved about the book is how it really sucks you in, I didn't want to put my kindle down the book flowed so well. It had the perfect balance of sex, action, killing and suspense. The plot was very well written and kept you engaged wondering what was going to happen next. Peacock and Yesfir were a fantastic couple and such a great match it made me smile reading about them falling in love. I have to say I crushed on Peacock a bit. Over all I'd definitely recommend this book to many of my friends. I would have liked a little more back story on Peacock and I'm absolutely looking forward to the next book. I give this one 4.5 stars.
Profile Image for Danielle Marlowe.
2,062 reviews9 followers
March 3, 2017
Esther E. Schmidt did an Amazing job on this book. I could not put this book down. This story kept me on the edge of my seat. There's many emotions in this story. Loved Peacock and Karma together. They are a perfect fit. Their chemistry is sizzling. Loved both Peacock and Karma. Peacock is everything, you would want in a man, he's strong, obsessive, protective, rough, loyal, sexy, and Karma is fierce, strong, and sassy. Karma and Peacock have gone through so much. I really enjoyed this book. It's a great story. I highly recommend this book. Loved this book. Esther E. Schmidt is an Amazing Author. I have read everyone of her books, and I can honestly say, they all are Fabulous. I'm looking forward to reading more. Thank you, Esther E. Schmidt. Fabulous Job :)
Profile Image for Alison Chewning.
732 reviews5 followers
March 23, 2017
Peacock by Esther E. Schmidt was a wonderful read. This book was filled with lots of action that kept me glued to my kindle and didn't stop. I enjoyed reading Peacock. This book is different from the others that the author writes this is dark and twisted and so much fun. Great story and wonderful characters. Peacock is one hot alpha who is into the BDSM life style. He was a good character that you can fall in love for he gets his own book after Ford.

*** I voluntarily reviewed an advance copy of this book on behalf of obsessed by books ***
Profile Image for Amy Davies.
Author 79 books524 followers
March 3, 2017
This book!! Talk about fast paced. Intense. And very sexy!! The sexual banter between Peacock and Karma is amazing. Their connection is fierce, that turns into love fill with loyalty.
There were times were I wanted to thrust punch Peacock but he made up for it in other ways.
You must read this book, Esther did an epic job with the twisted story.
Profile Image for Kathy.
2,613 reviews43 followers
March 13, 2017
Another fantastic by Esther. Peacock took Karma as a favor to her uncle. He saw this as a way to start another chapter of his life. He was ready for a change. He did something he never did before, go in blind. He didn’t want to see a pic of Karma or read her back ground. This is why he was caught off guard when he learned Karma’s real name. He was just about all in with her and now he has the one niggling little bit of doubt. Karma came to Peacock a broken girl. She was groomed to do one thing her whole life. She was a pawn for her uncle to use. Can Peacock help her and free her of her uncle? Will these two heal each other in a way they didn’t expect? I really like Peacock and Karma. Karma is different she doesn’t take anyone’s crap and is more than a match for Peacock in most ways. Peacock has recently became the head of the family (mafia). He knows something happened to Karma even after he finds out who she is and he wants nothing more than to find out what happened and who did it. He wants her the minute he sees her. He is determined to get through to her. He doesn’t always treat her great especially in the beginning, but he has reason to. This book is action packed for sure. It’s great how Peacock and Karma are with each other. They are definitely great for each other. I can’t wait to read more about them in the future hopefully. I highly recommend this book and all of Esther’s other books.
I was given this book in return for an honest review.
Profile Image for Tracy Supple.
170 reviews6 followers
March 20, 2017
I couldn't wait for peacocks story especially after the ending of fords book. And I have to say it was well worth the wait peacocks story starts off with some lol moments between him and Karma. The chemistry between these two was amazing. Karma's character is strong sassy and somewhat damaged. Peacock is all alpha male he's loyal strong and never backs down from a challenge. Now while I said this book had me laughing at certain things I found once the story progresses more there is a lot of twists and turns and moments when I literally felt like the wind had been knocked out of me especially in one particular scene. And that's when I found out the reason behind why Karma was all about self destruction. I felt so much anger and betrayal over it on her behalf. But peacock been the man he is will do everything in his power to stop her even if it means using tactics that he would prefer not to use on her. This for me was another amazing read by Esther and I love the fact that the ending in each story intertwine's in some way with the next one. In peacock and Karma's book we have two strong supporting characters Marlon and Unique and let me just say I'm so freakin excited about their story. I really hope more people get to know Esther's characters because once you start their books you be hooked. This was definitely a 5 star read for me.
Profile Image for Marika.
4,872 reviews101 followers
March 25, 2017
Peacock and Karma are so freaking awesome and kickass.. I am in love with both..and don't get me started on Unique ;)
Peacock wanted Karma since he saw her first..but he doesn't know what to make of her and even better, he doesn't know who she is..he can only recognise something in her that resonates with him.
Karma can't stand that cocky man, yet he is not like every other man..There’s something about him that infuriates her yet at the same time he makes her feel safe.
When the truth comes out, there is only one way it can end..him or her will suffer..
can he help her before it comes to that? can she trust him?
I devoured this story just like every other books by this author..there's action and grit, yet humour and sweet tender moments, it's hot and the banter between the two is amazing.
Can't wait for Unique's story.
Profile Image for Judy Miracle.
1,198 reviews12 followers
March 9, 2017
Peacock is in for one hell of a ride with Karma. She is a firecracker who won't take anyone's shit. Honestly, Peacock has met his match with this woman.

But can Peacock trust her? She holds secrets that when revealed had me saying "no shit", "oh hell no", I seriously could not put this book down. It had my heart racing time after time. And without giving away anything in the plot there is not a whole lot that can be said.

All I know is another action packed, heart racing read from Esther. She knows how to give you a story from beginning to end that will continue shocking you throughout.

I know for a fact with some of the secondary characters coming out in this one I cant wait for Unique's story. I think she will give us a bigger run for our money than Karma did.
Profile Image for LaVida Brisco - One Last Page Book Blog.
763 reviews10 followers
July 24, 2017
Karma

***ARC provided in exchange for an honest review***

This book was a thrilling ride that I didn't want to get off of. From the first page until the last this book will intrigue you and have you guessing at what either one is holding back. Peacock is a man used to having whatever he wants and demands submission from any and all women he has been with. So glad that its just his luck to get the fiery firecracker known as Karma. Karma says how she feel and holds nothing back, she has been through too much and doesn't have time for games. This unconventional love story was dynamite and the chemistry between the pair was undeniable. I for one have loved every book Esther has put out and so can't wait to see Marlon on his knees an get his comeuppance.
Profile Image for Donna.
1,457 reviews23 followers
March 23, 2017
4.5 stars

WOW!!! This book was brilliant, it was a fast paced, blood fueled, jammed packed full of angst read. My only grip was that it wasn't long enough. The whole story was amazing and although I won't divulge any of the story as it would be a complete spoiler what ever I said. Just know that it is a fanatic read and story.

The characters are BRILLIANT. Peacock is one hot alpha that is a no nonsense man but he shies a compassion that was heart warming and beautiful in what he does. This story contains Gangs, Mobsters, Hitmen and a MC. Yep what a delicious combination of characters.

Ester E Schmidt has a great way with words and the way she tells the story is great, it flows and sucks you in. I recommend this great book.
Profile Image for Melissa.
670 reviews9 followers
March 23, 2017
Holy Smokin Duck Balls Esther!!!

I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. Now I loved the glimpses of Peacock we saw in Ford and was so glad to see he had his story told. These two absolutely suited each other and the twists and turns were just the icing on the cake. Danger, deception, a slightly retired assassin, heat factor through the roof, bad guys and a passion (heat factor reworded because it just had to be said twice) so hot I swear my whole hand and not just the finger tips were singed with this one, oh and a real interesting love story. I can't wait for more, some possible nagging, fangirling, possible more nagging and a bit of pouting could be a big possibility in the near future until my fix can be fed.
Profile Image for She's a Lip Biter.
1,336 reviews30 followers
March 30, 2017
4.5 stars

WOW!!! This book was brilliant, it was a fast paced, blood fueled, jammed packed full of angst read. My only grip was that it wasn't long enough. The whole story was amazing and although I won't divulge any of the story as it would be a complete spoiler what ever I said. Just know that it is a fanatic read and story.

The characters are BRILLIANT. Peacock is one hot alpha that is a no nonsense man but he shies a compassion that was heart warming and beautiful in what he does. This story contains Gangs, Mobsters, Hitmen and a MC. Yep what a delicious combination of characters.

Ester E Schmidt has a great way with words and the way she tells the story is great, it flows and sucks you in. I recommend this great book.
Profile Image for Tiffany Mann.
4 reviews10 followers
March 3, 2017
Want to go on a wild and crazy journey then Peacok is for you. Peacok is a Dom, and when ,"Karma" literally gets dumped on his door step he knows this will be his greatest sub to challenge in a heart beat. Karma is fearless, tough and when she is forced on Peacock, she doesn't know how to react. He is so different than any other man she has known. There are twist and turns and ugly truths that come to light and you won't be able to stop once you start. This crazy journey will leave you gasping and shaking your head trying to figure out what will happen next.





***** I received and ARC for my honest review.****
803 reviews11 followers
March 13, 2017
Wow Esther has done it again , this was such a good book .
Yesfir (Karma) and Godrick(Peacock) are perfect for one an other, this book has everything you look for when you want to read, its full of action, twist and turns, its sexy , made me giggle a time or two, Karma is definitely a true badass, and is absolutely perfect for Peacock, she keeps him on his toes. The only way to do this justice is to read it and find out for yourself how amazing Esther is at her writing, her words turn to gold and her stories are fantastic!
Can't wait for Merlin and Unique's story!
Thank you Esther for another hit!
865 reviews3 followers
March 3, 2017
I have been anxiously awaiting this book! The end of Ford made me impatient to meet the spitfire who would win Peacocks heart. Karma did not disappoint! She is a tough and broken girl who can handle all of Peacocks eccentricities. The book had me engaged the whole time, I hated to put it down to go to work!! It is a fantastic read with plenty of action and steamy sexy time!! Esther also introduces us to a couple of new characters and I cannot wait to get their story!!! Thank you Esther for another amazing read, you can do no wrong!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews

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