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Russian Tattoos #3
Criminal
Russian mob boss Vladimir Ivanov has many enemies—one of them just kidnapped his wife.
A mafia war has erupted in London, and Vladimir’s enemies know his one weakness is his deep passion for his new bride, Carter Ivanov. When rival mob boss Maksim Ovechkin kidnaps her, Vladimir is willing to pay the ransom with his own blood.
But Maksim’s plans go deeper than that. Vladimir’s blood may not be enough.
Maksim wants Carter for himself.
Carter has a secret—she’s pregnant with Vladimir’s heir.
If Maksim finds out, the consequences will be disastrous. But Carter isn’t willing to give up on her husband, even if her loyalty to Vladimir puts her life on the line.
Some risks are worth taking, however, and Carter has a plan.
Unfortunately, Maksim is one step ahead of her.
Carter is no mafia princess who needs saving. She’s a force to be reckoned with. But she’ll need every ounce of her strength to defeat Maksim and his Bratva, and keep her family alive.
A mafia war has erupted in London, and Vladimir’s enemies know his one weakness is his deep passion for his new bride, Carter Ivanov. When rival mob boss Maksim Ovechkin kidnaps her, Vladimir is willing to pay the ransom with his own blood.
But Maksim’s plans go deeper than that. Vladimir’s blood may not be enough.
Maksim wants Carter for himself.
Carter has a secret—she’s pregnant with Vladimir’s heir.
If Maksim finds out, the consequences will be disastrous. But Carter isn’t willing to give up on her husband, even if her loyalty to Vladimir puts her life on the line.
Some risks are worth taking, however, and Carter has a plan.
Unfortunately, Maksim is one step ahead of her.
Carter is no mafia princess who needs saving. She’s a force to be reckoned with. But she’ll need every ounce of her strength to defeat Maksim and his Bratva, and keep her family alive.
274 pages, Paperback
First published May 2, 2017
134 people are currently reading
502 people want to read
About the author
Kat Shehata
17 books372 followersKat is a New York Times Bestselling author—with the help of a psychic.
After teaming up with world-renowned psychic Sylvia Browne, Kat co-wrote and published Animals on the Other Side. The book was a hit and landed on the New York Times Bestseller list. Kat and Sylvia went on to publish and promote three more successful titles, and the books were all featured on The Montel Williams Show.
Kat’s writing career took a romantic turn when a love story about a mob boss and a troubled young woman wouldn’t get out of her head. After spending years writing The Russian Tattoos Trilogy, a new couple, Evelyn and Leo, the main characters of Drawn to Death, demanded her attention.
When Kat is not reading or writing romantic suspense, ghost thrillers, or murder mysteries, she enjoys long walks and traveling with her husband. She splits her time between Cincinnati, Ohio, and Boca Raton, Florida.
She holds a bachelor’s degree in theatre from Wilmington College, a professional writing certificate from the University of Cincinnati, and a master’s degree in creative writing from Spalding University. She has won two Benjamin Franklin Awards and Killer’s Nashville’s Claymore Award for Best Suspense.
After teaming up with world-renowned psychic Sylvia Browne, Kat co-wrote and published Animals on the Other Side. The book was a hit and landed on the New York Times Bestseller list. Kat and Sylvia went on to publish and promote three more successful titles, and the books were all featured on The Montel Williams Show.
Kat’s writing career took a romantic turn when a love story about a mob boss and a troubled young woman wouldn’t get out of her head. After spending years writing The Russian Tattoos Trilogy, a new couple, Evelyn and Leo, the main characters of Drawn to Death, demanded her attention.
When Kat is not reading or writing romantic suspense, ghost thrillers, or murder mysteries, she enjoys long walks and traveling with her husband. She splits her time between Cincinnati, Ohio, and Boca Raton, Florida.
She holds a bachelor’s degree in theatre from Wilmington College, a professional writing certificate from the University of Cincinnati, and a master’s degree in creative writing from Spalding University. She has won two Benjamin Franklin Awards and Killer’s Nashville’s Claymore Award for Best Suspense.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
June 16, 2017
***** 4 Stars *****
Cannot be read as a standalone.
I had a lot of fun reading Criminal. There were some scenes that seemed really unrealistic and irrational, but overall I enjoyed this story.
My favorite character in this book is definitely Dmitri, and I hope that there will be a book about him.
Cannot be read as a standalone.
I had a lot of fun reading Criminal. There were some scenes that seemed really unrealistic and irrational, but overall I enjoyed this story.
My favorite character in this book is definitely Dmitri, and I hope that there will be a book about him.
May 2, 2017
Omg!!!! This book is way better (the best) than the first 2 books in the series!!!! In this book, I cried, fell in love and sweating bullets on what will happen next. There are so many intense scenes and unexpected events in this book!! Just WOW!!! I can't even....
This book is a must read!!! But first, read the first 2 books so you'll understand the flow of the story and you won't get lost. Ms. Kat did it again!!!
This book is a must read!!! But first, read the first 2 books so you'll understand the flow of the story and you won't get lost. Ms. Kat did it again!!!
October 9, 2017
This was book 3 in the
"Russian Tattoos"
series Criminal. This book picks up where book 2 left off Carter Ivanov and her bodyguard Dmitri have been kidnapped by Maksim Ovechkin and taken to London. This book had a lot of violence in it and Carter had to fight both physically and mentally to keep her family together. Boris other son Yuri works for Maksim and is consider a trader by the family and although she was told not to tell anyone about the baby she does tell Yuri because she believed that he was going to hurt her. When Boris shows up to get her she refuses to go and although I thought she was being stupid Carter was being smart and thinking about her family she puts her life on the line to safe her loved one's. Maksim wants Carter and he makes all kinds of crazy deals with her. When Vladimir showed up to turn himself in it was funny that they got busy in the small cell with Dmitri chained to the ceiling. When she is caught lying about hurting herself she is forced to fight Valentina Maksim's bodyguard pregnant or not. Carter was forced to fight for her life and the life of her baby and she remember the things that the guys taught her and also Yuri help and she was able to knock her out. I liked Maksim he was willing to do whatever he needed to get what he wanted and he wanted some kind of program that Vladimir had. All hell breaks loss when Yuri decides to help his brother's Vladimir and Dmitri after Maksim makes them fight a death match with each other and in the mist of all that while Maksim and Vladimir are fighting and Mak has some skills the big boss shows up and put an end to all the BS. This was a really a good read that I stayed up all night to complete. Carter returned home to the US without her husband with a story to tell her parents and the police about her abduction and how Vladimir helped her and they fell in love and got married. Carter suffered some PTSD and when the orderly in the hospital spoke to her she thought it was someone that Mak sent to kidnap her again and although she is happy to be home with her friends and family she wants her husband. Months go by without and word from Vladimir and she keeps herself busy by redoing the house making room for the baby and with Dmitri's little sister's that they adopted. This was a good series and this book was the perfect end to it. Vladimir comes back to his family just in time to see his baby born. This book was well written like the other books in this series with no errors in grammar or spelling.
Live To Fight Another Day
Maksim
Dmitri
Boris
Live To Fight Another Day
Maksim
Dmitri
Boris
November 7, 2022
The couple: Vladimir and Carter
Romance trope: mafia
Series: Russian Tattoos
Length: 291 pages
Plot: After all they've gone through, Vlad and Carter are together and Carter is expecting Vladimir's baby. But she's been kidnapped by a rival of Vlad's and she'll need all her strength and smarts to get out of her predicament alive. Even after she is released, she will still have to fight and then Vladimir will have to fight. They are separated until the very end, but they do get their HEA.
Commentary: I think I was so put off by the first two books that it was difficult for me to like this one. I still couldn't figure out why Carter even liked him. I really feel like it was a crush gone wrong, and if Vladimir hadn't been a creepy, violent, jailbait-loving criminal, Carter would have gotten over her crush and lived her life without being assaulted, beaten, kidnapped, etc. But here we are. Carter literally fights her way out in a sort of deathmatch at the behest of the villain, and then Vladimir has to do the same (until the cavalry shows up to help). And then Carter has to wait all that time at home, pregnant, without Vladimir. Seems like a pretty unsatisfying end (which goes up until the very end, where we get a couple of pages of reunion). Honestly, I just didn't like the series, and I know a lot of people did, and I'm glad. I just couldn't get over the assault that Vladimir allowed (facilitated) in the first part of the series.
Also, I know not every pregnancy is the same, but the deathmatch scene was pretty unlikely.
Previous book in the series: Prisoner
Romance trope: mafia
Series: Russian Tattoos
Length: 291 pages
Plot: After all they've gone through, Vlad and Carter are together and Carter is expecting Vladimir's baby. But she's been kidnapped by a rival of Vlad's and she'll need all her strength and smarts to get out of her predicament alive. Even after she is released, she will still have to fight and then Vladimir will have to fight. They are separated until the very end, but they do get their HEA.
Commentary: I think I was so put off by the first two books that it was difficult for me to like this one. I still couldn't figure out why Carter even liked him. I really feel like it was a crush gone wrong, and if Vladimir hadn't been a creepy, violent, jailbait-loving criminal, Carter would have gotten over her crush and lived her life without being assaulted, beaten, kidnapped, etc. But here we are. Carter literally fights her way out in a sort of deathmatch at the behest of the villain, and then Vladimir has to do the same (until the cavalry shows up to help). And then Carter has to wait all that time at home, pregnant, without Vladimir. Seems like a pretty unsatisfying end (which goes up until the very end, where we get a couple of pages of reunion). Honestly, I just didn't like the series, and I know a lot of people did, and I'm glad. I just couldn't get over the assault that Vladimir allowed (facilitated) in the first part of the series.
Also, I know not every pregnancy is the same, but the deathmatch scene was pretty unlikely.
Previous book in the series: Prisoner
July 23, 2017
Thrilling climax..
This final book in this series is without doubt also the best…the action starts where the last book concluded and the thrills and spills continue throughout….the premise of the series continues to be exciting and I love the balance of light and dark in the plot with humour and camaraderie as well as the brutality and ruthlessness of the Bratva world in which the action takes place..
Carter’s and Vladimir’s characters have grown….their relationship continues to be complex but much more believable as they battle together against a deadly enemy…the subsidiary characters are also well developed…in particular there is a special place in my heart for Boris,Vladimir's trusted advisor…despite the fact that his previous behaviour was unconscionable...he epitomises the values of his family of strength and loyalty with a good helping of tough love…
As this entertaining trilogy comes to a thrilling climax I can honestly say that, although I may have had my reservations with the previous books, I have become addicted to the lives and loves within this gripping series and as I finally say goodbye to Carter and Vladimir I am honestly sad that the journey is over…..This book was reviewed for Summer's Eve Reads...
This final book in this series is without doubt also the best…the action starts where the last book concluded and the thrills and spills continue throughout….the premise of the series continues to be exciting and I love the balance of light and dark in the plot with humour and camaraderie as well as the brutality and ruthlessness of the Bratva world in which the action takes place..
Carter’s and Vladimir’s characters have grown….their relationship continues to be complex but much more believable as they battle together against a deadly enemy…the subsidiary characters are also well developed…in particular there is a special place in my heart for Boris,Vladimir's trusted advisor…despite the fact that his previous behaviour was unconscionable...he epitomises the values of his family of strength and loyalty with a good helping of tough love…
As this entertaining trilogy comes to a thrilling climax I can honestly say that, although I may have had my reservations with the previous books, I have become addicted to the lives and loves within this gripping series and as I finally say goodbye to Carter and Vladimir I am honestly sad that the journey is over…..This book was reviewed for Summer's Eve Reads...
May 24, 2017
*** ALL THREE BOOKS MUST BE READ IN ORDER. ***
*** SPOILER-FREE REVIEW. ***
YOU GUYS. What a conclusion!!!! Vladimir and Carter's story was explosive from the very beginning and it all ended perfectly! I am very sad the trilogy is over, but man, it was an EPIC ride through the very end.
In this book, Carter and Vladimir's relationship is tested beyond what they've ever encountered. I found myself feeling tense, anxious, and in need of knowing how everything would unfold. Kat Shehata has me nervous! I felt like I could not turn the pages fast enough! The build up felt intense! The action, drama, and suspense were just right! Gosh! I was in book heaven!
There's not really much I can say, I mean, this is the final book in the trilogy. Do know that all the books are a MUST and this one....well, this one just might be my favorite one of all! Vladimir and Carter's love story is a journey you need to experience for yourself. These Russians are sexy and they sure keep things interesting!!
FIVE STARS!
*** SPOILER-FREE REVIEW. ***
YOU GUYS. What a conclusion!!!! Vladimir and Carter's story was explosive from the very beginning and it all ended perfectly! I am very sad the trilogy is over, but man, it was an EPIC ride through the very end.
In this book, Carter and Vladimir's relationship is tested beyond what they've ever encountered. I found myself feeling tense, anxious, and in need of knowing how everything would unfold. Kat Shehata has me nervous! I felt like I could not turn the pages fast enough! The build up felt intense! The action, drama, and suspense were just right! Gosh! I was in book heaven!
There's not really much I can say, I mean, this is the final book in the trilogy. Do know that all the books are a MUST and this one....well, this one just might be my favorite one of all! Vladimir and Carter's love story is a journey you need to experience for yourself. These Russians are sexy and they sure keep things interesting!!
FIVE STARS!
April 23, 2017
Criminal was the perfect ending to the Russian Tattoos series by Kat Shehata!
Criminal is book 3 in the series and reading books 1&2 are critical to understanding what is happening in book three.
Throughout this whole series, Carter has been the main character and you really see her progress all the way through. In the beginning she was young and mouthy, always doing things her way and on her time. It took a lot of correction from Boris and Vladimir to make her into the Queen she has become in Criminal.
Criminal really ticked off my most important must haves in a 5 star read. Reading is an emotional experience for me and so for a book to get 5 stars, you know it has taken me there and back and I am exhausted at the end.
I needed to laugh - while I will admit there wasn't much to laugh about in book three, one of my favorite characteristics of Carters is when she pushes back at Boris or whomever is guarding her at any given time. Because she has evolved into this new role, you really don't see much of it in book 3...but if you look closely, you'll see it.
I needed to cry. Check. This book was heartbreaking in some places. OK a lot of places. By chapter 10 I was in tears for Carter and Vladimir.
I needed some action. Check. Holy Moly did I get action. I had a hard time trying to keep up with everything.
I needed some drama/suspense. There is definitely that. It's the Russian Mob so...
There has to be great romance. It has been a while since I have read anything with as much chemistry between the main characters, which I think I can contribute to the fact that I have read from book one. I was invested in their relationship. It has been one that has been quite a roller coaster ride from the beginning. The love between Carter and Vladimir is hard to put into words, but it's very deep and at times destroys you.
This book was an all around win for me. I am truly sad to see this series end. There were a couple other characters that I would love to see developed and get their own story. Who knows what is next!
Reviewed by Corrie H. for Lamplight Review and Promotion
Criminal is book 3 in the series and reading books 1&2 are critical to understanding what is happening in book three.
Throughout this whole series, Carter has been the main character and you really see her progress all the way through. In the beginning she was young and mouthy, always doing things her way and on her time. It took a lot of correction from Boris and Vladimir to make her into the Queen she has become in Criminal.
Criminal really ticked off my most important must haves in a 5 star read. Reading is an emotional experience for me and so for a book to get 5 stars, you know it has taken me there and back and I am exhausted at the end.
I needed to laugh - while I will admit there wasn't much to laugh about in book three, one of my favorite characteristics of Carters is when she pushes back at Boris or whomever is guarding her at any given time. Because she has evolved into this new role, you really don't see much of it in book 3...but if you look closely, you'll see it.
I needed to cry. Check. This book was heartbreaking in some places. OK a lot of places. By chapter 10 I was in tears for Carter and Vladimir.
I needed some action. Check. Holy Moly did I get action. I had a hard time trying to keep up with everything.
I needed some drama/suspense. There is definitely that. It's the Russian Mob so...
There has to be great romance. It has been a while since I have read anything with as much chemistry between the main characters, which I think I can contribute to the fact that I have read from book one. I was invested in their relationship. It has been one that has been quite a roller coaster ride from the beginning. The love between Carter and Vladimir is hard to put into words, but it's very deep and at times destroys you.
This book was an all around win for me. I am truly sad to see this series end. There were a couple other characters that I would love to see developed and get their own story. Who knows what is next!
Reviewed by Corrie H. for Lamplight Review and Promotion
August 6, 2017
5 Stars!
Edgy. Sexy. Suspenseful. Intense. Dark(ish). Kat Shehata has an explosive, heart pounding series out that will leave you on the edge of your seat...gripping the pages...and gasping for air. I'm not sure how I've missed this author in the past but you can be sure she's on my radar now.
The Russian Tattoos trilogy has quickly become an addiction of mine I do not want to shake. Addicting. Captivating. Intriguing. Mysterious. Gritty. Raw. These three books following Carter and Vladimir were simply brilliant and I could not get enough of them and their twisted journey.
And yes I know, while I'm not a huge lover of the angstier, darker storylines... something about these books just drew me in and before I knew it, I was three books deep.
Get ready for your new obsession...
Finally it's here! The last book for Carter and Vladimir. I followed their path and got all tangled up. These two ripped out my heart at times and left me a mess. I've laughed, cried, smiled, swooned, got pissed off, angry, and wanted to scream *yeah the feels have been so real* to the top of my lungs..reach in and grab hold of these two in moments... but that's just the them I've come to discover.... and every moment was leading to this heart-stopping conclusion.
Get ready because it's about to go down! War is here. Boundaries will be tested. Lines will be pushed. Lives are on the line. You'll never see it coming and they are gonna take you by storm... hold on to your panties and seats *aaaaaand hearts*, this is gonna be quite the epic fall. Will they finally get it... ALL?
This is the kind of books that sets my bar high in romance. I'm looking forward to more from Shehata in the near, mg near future.
If you have a secret addiction to mafia romances like myself then Kat Shehata is definitely a go to read!
I recommend this book and series!
Review Post >> https://reneeentress.blogspot.com/201...
Edgy. Sexy. Suspenseful. Intense. Dark(ish). Kat Shehata has an explosive, heart pounding series out that will leave you on the edge of your seat...gripping the pages...and gasping for air. I'm not sure how I've missed this author in the past but you can be sure she's on my radar now.
The Russian Tattoos trilogy has quickly become an addiction of mine I do not want to shake. Addicting. Captivating. Intriguing. Mysterious. Gritty. Raw. These three books following Carter and Vladimir were simply brilliant and I could not get enough of them and their twisted journey.
And yes I know, while I'm not a huge lover of the angstier, darker storylines... something about these books just drew me in and before I knew it, I was three books deep.
Get ready for your new obsession...
Finally it's here! The last book for Carter and Vladimir. I followed their path and got all tangled up. These two ripped out my heart at times and left me a mess. I've laughed, cried, smiled, swooned, got pissed off, angry, and wanted to scream *yeah the feels have been so real* to the top of my lungs..reach in and grab hold of these two in moments... but that's just the them I've come to discover.... and every moment was leading to this heart-stopping conclusion.
Get ready because it's about to go down! War is here. Boundaries will be tested. Lines will be pushed. Lives are on the line. You'll never see it coming and they are gonna take you by storm... hold on to your panties and seats *aaaaaand hearts*, this is gonna be quite the epic fall. Will they finally get it... ALL?
This is the kind of books that sets my bar high in romance. I'm looking forward to more from Shehata in the near, mg near future.
If you have a secret addiction to mafia romances like myself then Kat Shehata is definitely a go to read!
I recommend this book and series!
Review Post >> https://reneeentress.blogspot.com/201...
June 26, 2019
I oto mamy zakończenie tej nietypowej trylogii. Pierwsza część nie za bardzo mnie zachwyciła, bo pomimo zabawnych tekstów naszej irytującej Carter, trzeba przyznać, że akcja była nijaka, dopiero gdzieś w połowie książki, kiedy obsesja Vladimira się pogłębiała, zaczęło się robić coraz bardziej niebezpiecznie i coraz bardziej interesująco. Zakończenie było jak grom z jasnego nieba, nikt się tego nie spodziewał po takiej książce, w której nawet jak bohaterka mówiła o cierpieniu, to w sposób na tyle zabawny, że można było mieć wątpliwości czy aby na pewno cierpiała.
Druga część zdecydowanie nabrała tempa, jakby autorka chciała nadrobić dłużyzny z pierwszej części. Tutaj nie było ani chwili na wytchnienie, co trochę zaskakiwała nas nowymi rewelacjami. I chociaż zrobiło się dramatycznie, a Carter jakby trochę wydoroślała, to nadal nie opuszczał jej ironiczny humor. No i pod koniec spadła na nas kolejna bomba.
Trzecia część zaczęła się bardzo dynamicznie i taka była mniej więcej do połowy książki, a potem nagle akcje siadła, aby dać upust emocjom rozpaczy Carter nad zaginionym w Rosji Władziem. No i wreszcie na koniec słodkie i romantyczne zakończenie, gdzie wszyscy są jedną wielką szczęśliwą rodziną, w której znajduje się nawet miejsce dla wrogów. Chyba autorkę za bardzo poniosło.
Z pewnością ta książka zasługuje na zainteresowanie, bo jest inna od wszystkich pozostałych książek o mafii. Każdy z bohaterów wzbudza różnorakie emocje od miłości do nienawiści, największe chyba Vladimir, który w pewnym momencie został potępiony przez czytelnika za swoje zachowanie wobec Carter, a potem przeszedł przemianę jak Kmicic z „Potopu”, bo przestał pić i już pozostał chodzącym ideałem. Carter nam się pięknie rozwinęła, w głowie się nie mieści, przez co ta biedna dziewczyna przeszła, a końcówka pokazała, że jest godna tytułu żony pakhana.
Podsumowując, jako cała trylogia książka mi się nawet podobała i choć miała trochę niedoróbek, z pewnością zasługuje na zainteresowanie.
Druga część zdecydowanie nabrała tempa, jakby autorka chciała nadrobić dłużyzny z pierwszej części. Tutaj nie było ani chwili na wytchnienie, co trochę zaskakiwała nas nowymi rewelacjami. I chociaż zrobiło się dramatycznie, a Carter jakby trochę wydoroślała, to nadal nie opuszczał jej ironiczny humor. No i pod koniec spadła na nas kolejna bomba.
Trzecia część zaczęła się bardzo dynamicznie i taka była mniej więcej do połowy książki, a potem nagle akcje siadła, aby dać upust emocjom rozpaczy Carter nad zaginionym w Rosji Władziem. No i wreszcie na koniec słodkie i romantyczne zakończenie, gdzie wszyscy są jedną wielką szczęśliwą rodziną, w której znajduje się nawet miejsce dla wrogów. Chyba autorkę za bardzo poniosło.
Z pewnością ta książka zasługuje na zainteresowanie, bo jest inna od wszystkich pozostałych książek o mafii. Każdy z bohaterów wzbudza różnorakie emocje od miłości do nienawiści, największe chyba Vladimir, który w pewnym momencie został potępiony przez czytelnika za swoje zachowanie wobec Carter, a potem przeszedł przemianę jak Kmicic z „Potopu”, bo przestał pić i już pozostał chodzącym ideałem. Carter nam się pięknie rozwinęła, w głowie się nie mieści, przez co ta biedna dziewczyna przeszła, a końcówka pokazała, że jest godna tytułu żony pakhana.
Podsumowując, jako cała trylogia książka mi się nawet podobała i choć miała trochę niedoróbek, z pewnością zasługuje na zainteresowanie.
June 17, 2017
Great series
FINALLY, the drama slowed down. Never thought I would finds series with almost too much drama but, this one was it; every time Carter turned around there is drama her being beaten, injured, kidnapped, fighting for her life, and Vladimir's life on the line! This series gives an all new meaning to life having its ups and downs. Love appears when you least expect it to, and clearly it is worth fighting and even dying for. Vladimir loves Carter with everything her has and she in return. Carter is young and makes a lot of stupid mistakes,as she is supposed to; I am sure she had no clue what falling in love with Russia's number one pakhan entailed but,she learned. The only reason it good four stars instead of a full five is because of the writing about sex. I do understand Carter is young and a virgin but, the "down there", touching me " there", "put it in" really got old! For the record calling it a penis is not sexy! Calling it's cock makes it a whole lot sexier. Vladimir made Carter do a lot of things, never made her do anything sexual but, maybe when they started their sexual encounters he should have made her ask for what she wanted, maybe he should have made her learn to call hers and his body parts out. That is really my only complaint about this series. I loved it; it is action, and drama packed, watching a highly usual love grow into a deep commitment while watching Carter grow up and Vladimir learn how to love a partner was good. I highly recommend this series and have little doubt, I will read it again sometime. Enjoy
FINALLY, the drama slowed down. Never thought I would finds series with almost too much drama but, this one was it; every time Carter turned around there is drama her being beaten, injured, kidnapped, fighting for her life, and Vladimir's life on the line! This series gives an all new meaning to life having its ups and downs. Love appears when you least expect it to, and clearly it is worth fighting and even dying for. Vladimir loves Carter with everything her has and she in return. Carter is young and makes a lot of stupid mistakes,as she is supposed to; I am sure she had no clue what falling in love with Russia's number one pakhan entailed but,she learned. The only reason it good four stars instead of a full five is because of the writing about sex. I do understand Carter is young and a virgin but, the "down there", touching me " there", "put it in" really got old! For the record calling it a penis is not sexy! Calling it's cock makes it a whole lot sexier. Vladimir made Carter do a lot of things, never made her do anything sexual but, maybe when they started their sexual encounters he should have made her ask for what she wanted, maybe he should have made her learn to call hers and his body parts out. That is really my only complaint about this series. I loved it; it is action, and drama packed, watching a highly usual love grow into a deep commitment while watching Carter grow up and Vladimir learn how to love a partner was good. I highly recommend this series and have little doubt, I will read it again sometime. Enjoy
June 18, 2017
So firstly I want to thank the author Kat shehata for sending me this book that I won in a giveaway I really enjoyed it so thank you. Now onto the actual review as I stated earlier I really enjoyed this book I admit I've never read the first two of the trilogy so i didn't have the back ground info on the characters and relationships but I managed to pick up what happened straight away and it was remarkable easy to understand and work out. It was also straight to the point and it was amazingly written aswell with a great plot. Now the plot I've read many different mafia novels in the past and while it seems like this would be another version of the same plot line I have to admit the ending did serprise me and weren't at all how I pictured it ending if honest but I won't give anything away. I think after ready this book I really got to read the first two. I love the whole loyalty and protection that carter displays through out this book to her family and ongoing forgiveness she gives to so many people. Thank you again Kat for writing such an amazing book.
Forever
Forever
April 5, 2023
Brutal and disturbing depiction of the Bratva
I nearly stopped reading the first book because I found it disturbing and Vladimir the main character, is depicted as almost psychotic with Boris his enforcer, a controlling nutcase. But in the end it was Carter's courage and pluck that kept me turning the pages. I liked her optimistic outlook on life. By book 2, Vladimir was a more likeable character. Whilst Boris took on the mantle of psychotic enforcer. Through it all a love story emerged. This is not the Bratva served up in a romanticised version but the brutal reality of living in the world of mobsters. By book 3, I had bought into the love affair between Vladimir and Carter and cheered when they got their happy ever after surrounded by their loyal family. Loved the way all the loose ends were neatly tied up.
I nearly stopped reading the first book because I found it disturbing and Vladimir the main character, is depicted as almost psychotic with Boris his enforcer, a controlling nutcase. But in the end it was Carter's courage and pluck that kept me turning the pages. I liked her optimistic outlook on life. By book 2, Vladimir was a more likeable character. Whilst Boris took on the mantle of psychotic enforcer. Through it all a love story emerged. This is not the Bratva served up in a romanticised version but the brutal reality of living in the world of mobsters. By book 3, I had bought into the love affair between Vladimir and Carter and cheered when they got their happy ever after surrounded by their loyal family. Loved the way all the loose ends were neatly tied up.
August 4, 2017
Review originally published here: https://joyfulantidotes.com/2017/08/0...
Russian Tattoos: Criminal (Russian Tattoos #3) by Kat Shehata opens with the kidnapping of Russian mob boss Vladimir Ivanov’s wife, Carter. Carter is held up in London by rival mob boss, Maksim Ovechkin, and won’t be released until Vladimir pays the ultimate price, his life. What Maksim doesn’t know is that Carter is pregnant with Vladimir’s child and she will do anything to protect her family.
OK, I just want to put one thing out there before we begin: Criminal can be read as a standalone book but I recommend reading the first two books in the series before starting this. Why? Like me, who did read this book independently, you may end up a little lost. While the storyline of Criminal will still be easy to follow, you will find yourself asking many questions about how the characters came to this point and, unlike others who have read all three books, you won’t have developed a strong tie to Vladimir and Carter which, from what I have read, is a disappointment.
Whatever order you choose to read Criminal in, I can promise you plenty of action. Plenty of hard-core violence and backstabbing, the kind you can only find in the gangster genre. Consequently, this leads to a deep and sinister story with the most sinister part, for me at least, being Carter’s love for Vladimir. Don’t get me wrong, I can see how she fell for her husband, the girl-next-door falling for the bad boy is nothing new to this world, but it didn’t stop me thinking “what the hell are you doing?!” as she continued to stay with him and also defend the relationship. And this was the frustrating part of the book for me; Carter was too weak. I really couldn’t connect with her as a person and I certainly didn’t understand her marriage (although a quick Google search gave me more of an idea of the background).
In terms of the other characters, none were exactly likeable, except maybe Dmitri (Carter’s bodyguard), but all were interesting, especially Vladimir. I think if you were a fan of Christian Grey of the Fifty Shades series, Vladimir will have a certain appeal to you.
Overall, I did enjoy the story. Although there were times I wished I hadn’t begun the series at number three, it was still somewhat of a page turner for me and I just needed to know how it ended. I would love to read your comments below about the series; I need some people to discuss further with!
I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Russian Tattoos: Criminal (Russian Tattoos #3) by Kat Shehata opens with the kidnapping of Russian mob boss Vladimir Ivanov’s wife, Carter. Carter is held up in London by rival mob boss, Maksim Ovechkin, and won’t be released until Vladimir pays the ultimate price, his life. What Maksim doesn’t know is that Carter is pregnant with Vladimir’s child and she will do anything to protect her family.
OK, I just want to put one thing out there before we begin: Criminal can be read as a standalone book but I recommend reading the first two books in the series before starting this. Why? Like me, who did read this book independently, you may end up a little lost. While the storyline of Criminal will still be easy to follow, you will find yourself asking many questions about how the characters came to this point and, unlike others who have read all three books, you won’t have developed a strong tie to Vladimir and Carter which, from what I have read, is a disappointment.
Whatever order you choose to read Criminal in, I can promise you plenty of action. Plenty of hard-core violence and backstabbing, the kind you can only find in the gangster genre. Consequently, this leads to a deep and sinister story with the most sinister part, for me at least, being Carter’s love for Vladimir. Don’t get me wrong, I can see how she fell for her husband, the girl-next-door falling for the bad boy is nothing new to this world, but it didn’t stop me thinking “what the hell are you doing?!” as she continued to stay with him and also defend the relationship. And this was the frustrating part of the book for me; Carter was too weak. I really couldn’t connect with her as a person and I certainly didn’t understand her marriage (although a quick Google search gave me more of an idea of the background).
In terms of the other characters, none were exactly likeable, except maybe Dmitri (Carter’s bodyguard), but all were interesting, especially Vladimir. I think if you were a fan of Christian Grey of the Fifty Shades series, Vladimir will have a certain appeal to you.
Overall, I did enjoy the story. Although there were times I wished I hadn’t begun the series at number three, it was still somewhat of a page turner for me and I just needed to know how it ended. I would love to read your comments below about the series; I need some people to discuss further with!
I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 28, 2017
Vladimir love!
This the third and final book in the Russian Tattoos series by Kat Shehata. Wow! If you've made it here than you know you've been on an emotional rollercoaster! I read this trilogy in three days! Needless to say, I've neglected to get any work done.
But... oh, my ever loving gracious! I'm in love! Vladimir is Russian hotness to the extreme! In Criminal we see Vlad struggle some, by the end of the book dominate Vladimir is back. Fighting for the love of his family.
Carter! Wow! She was a force in this book, definitely no damsel in distress. She was completely badass.
There is so many twist, turns, and layers in this book. Read it. Trust me.
This the third and final book in the Russian Tattoos series by Kat Shehata. Wow! If you've made it here than you know you've been on an emotional rollercoaster! I read this trilogy in three days! Needless to say, I've neglected to get any work done.
But... oh, my ever loving gracious! I'm in love! Vladimir is Russian hotness to the extreme! In Criminal we see Vlad struggle some, by the end of the book dominate Vladimir is back. Fighting for the love of his family.
Carter! Wow! She was a force in this book, definitely no damsel in distress. She was completely badass.
There is so many twist, turns, and layers in this book. Read it. Trust me.
May 20, 2017
Finally they get their HEA!
Glad and Carter had a tumultuous road to go in the beginning of their marriage. The kidnapping of Carter was very stressful to read. She grew up in a very short period of time, but her stubbornness turned out to be her best weapon for survival. Her love for George and Vladimir was all the insensitive she needed for survival
Even though their HEA was conditional, they were still able to keep their blended family together with much love FOREVER!
This was an enjoyable read, full of suspense and drama.
Glad and Carter had a tumultuous road to go in the beginning of their marriage. The kidnapping of Carter was very stressful to read. She grew up in a very short period of time, but her stubbornness turned out to be her best weapon for survival. Her love for George and Vladimir was all the insensitive she needed for survival
Even though their HEA was conditional, they were still able to keep their blended family together with much love FOREVER!
This was an enjoyable read, full of suspense and drama.
August 6, 2017
Wow, book three was expected to be pretty intense, but it was crazy intense!! It has the intense drama you come to expect from this bratva series and it's action packed! It had me turning the page faster and faster. I just had to find out what was going to happen next. We get to see the somewhat immature Carter grow up and Vladimir learns how to be a better man for her. I have to say that book three redeems books one and two and makes it a worthwhile read. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
January 24, 2019
What an amazing ride it was. Gah, I felt so hopeless in times and jeez I cringed and cheered. Emotional rollercoaster. Am I the only crazy who though Maks is actually not bad :D When he described some stuff I was like khm what is wrong with me, why I like what he says. And I love villans who redeem themselves.
I really hope a book about Dimitri and Maks. Dimitri was fantastic, If I would be Carter damn it would have been hard to say no to him 🙈 And Maks Maks, what can I say. He was an asshole but one sexy cunning one.
I really hope a book about Dimitri and Maks. Dimitri was fantastic, If I would be Carter damn it would have been hard to say no to him 🙈 And Maks Maks, what can I say. He was an asshole but one sexy cunning one.
March 12, 2024
What an amazing ride it was. Gah, I felt so hopeless in times and jeez I cringed and cheered. Emotional rollercoaster. Am I the only crazy who though Maks is actually not bad :D When he described some stuff I was like khm what is wrong with me, why I like what he says. And I love villans who redeem themselves.
I really hope a book about Dimitri and Maks. Dimitri was fantastic, If I would be Carter damn it would have been hard to say no to him 🙈 And Maks Maks, what can I say. He was an asshole but one sexy cunning one.
I really hope a book about Dimitri and Maks. Dimitri was fantastic, If I would be Carter damn it would have been hard to say no to him 🙈 And Maks Maks, what can I say. He was an asshole but one sexy cunning one.
September 10, 2024
Very intresting
Such a wild crazy story that is kind of twisted. I found myself re-reading paragraphs just to make sure I did read what was written. I guess if Russian Bratva has stereo types this would probably hit all of them. I think the most crazy chapter is the last one. You will never believe it and you have to read it to believe it. Amazing writing and storytelling. This book will definitely hit triggers for some people so warning, it is not for the weak of heart. Happy reading All.
Such a wild crazy story that is kind of twisted. I found myself re-reading paragraphs just to make sure I did read what was written. I guess if Russian Bratva has stereo types this would probably hit all of them. I think the most crazy chapter is the last one. You will never believe it and you have to read it to believe it. Amazing writing and storytelling. This book will definitely hit triggers for some people so warning, it is not for the weak of heart. Happy reading All.
May 7, 2017
Epic Trilogy!
I loved, loved, loved this 3 book series. It was a sexy, thrilling ride from the first book to the last. If you like mafia stories with dominant alpha heroes and strong sassy heroines, this series is for you. Each book picks up where the last one left off and they are not stand alone. I normally don't read series, but this one is so worth it. I had never heard of this author prior to reading this trilogy, but will definitely be exploring more.
I loved, loved, loved this 3 book series. It was a sexy, thrilling ride from the first book to the last. If you like mafia stories with dominant alpha heroes and strong sassy heroines, this series is for you. Each book picks up where the last one left off and they are not stand alone. I normally don't read series, but this one is so worth it. I had never heard of this author prior to reading this trilogy, but will definitely be exploring more.
May 28, 2017
Fell Short
The premise of the third installment of "Russian Tattoos" was great, but this story fell waaay short of its predecessors. Poor Carter was kidnapped-again-chained, assaulted, nearly raped, and it took until the end of the story for ber and Vladimir to reunite. Then they "killed" Yuri. I was waiting for his return before the story ended but...
I gave this installment 2.5 stars.
The premise of the third installment of "Russian Tattoos" was great, but this story fell waaay short of its predecessors. Poor Carter was kidnapped-again-chained, assaulted, nearly raped, and it took until the end of the story for ber and Vladimir to reunite. Then they "killed" Yuri. I was waiting for his return before the story ended but...
I gave this installment 2.5 stars.
August 10, 2017
I hated it!!!
The Book series read like a young adult series with a buddy hero character and a silly immature heroine. I actually Preferred Dmitri for the Heroine as opposed to Vladimir. I foolishly had high hopes that this Book would be like Mia Knight's Crime Lord series but no such luck. Waste of my time and money and I found myself skipping chapter after chapter, after a while. The sex scenes were even awful. They were scarce, brief and not very descriptive.
The Book series read like a young adult series with a buddy hero character and a silly immature heroine. I actually Preferred Dmitri for the Heroine as opposed to Vladimir. I foolishly had high hopes that this Book would be like Mia Knight's Crime Lord series but no such luck. Waste of my time and money and I found myself skipping chapter after chapter, after a while. The sex scenes were even awful. They were scarce, brief and not very descriptive.
January 12, 2025
This was an excellent book. The writing, the characters and the storyline was amazing
Carter the wife of a Russian bratva pakhan has been kidnapped by another Russian bratva who wants to pakhan. He kidnaps Carter so that he can get the information needed to be pakhan. He also wants to kill Vladimir her husband. He wants Vladimir to surrender to him and he will let his wife go.
This is a most read book. Loved it
Carter the wife of a Russian bratva pakhan has been kidnapped by another Russian bratva who wants to pakhan. He kidnaps Carter so that he can get the information needed to be pakhan. He also wants to kill Vladimir her husband. He wants Vladimir to surrender to him and he will let his wife go.
This is a most read book. Loved it
May 4, 2017
Wow
Wow what a series ,hot Dom and a great series with a completely AWESOME characters ,to make the series even better.Kat kept her story believable throughout the series. Give it a try ,you won't be disappointed from beginning to the end. Waiting on another series by her I hope. Awesome author
Wow what a series ,hot Dom and a great series with a completely AWESOME characters ,to make the series even better.Kat kept her story believable throughout the series. Give it a try ,you won't be disappointed from beginning to the end. Waiting on another series by her I hope. Awesome author
June 27, 2017
I have no words... This book was just wow. From beginning to end I was falling into this crazy mess of a story and I mean that in a good way!
Drama...and dear LORD I was sobbing from like 75%-90%!! Drama and just holding your breath hoping what you want to happen will happen but being like "oh my god please tell me I'm not wrong"
Brilliant ending to a wonderful trilogy. Thank you
Drama...and dear LORD I was sobbing from like 75%-90%!! Drama and just holding your breath hoping what you want to happen will happen but being like "oh my god please tell me I'm not wrong"
Brilliant ending to a wonderful trilogy. Thank you
March 4, 2018
I had to finish this and thought it couldn't get worse but I wanted to see how it ended. the h was the most annoying heroine I ever read. I can understand if you want a strong h but try to be some what realistic.a 15 wk pregnant girl after getting her but kick turns around and kills the person... Come on?? I skimmed most of the series since so many people gave great reviews.
January 2, 2024
2.5 stars.
It all wrapped up a lot too neatly considering. I mean for goodness sakes even Maks was now part of the “family” 🙄🙄🙄
But I guess it was interesting. I just expected more conflict. But this one was mostly about Carter missing Vladimir and hoping he would return to her while taking care of their home in the U.S.
It all wrapped up a lot too neatly considering. I mean for goodness sakes even Maks was now part of the “family” 🙄🙄🙄
But I guess it was interesting. I just expected more conflict. But this one was mostly about Carter missing Vladimir and hoping he would return to her while taking care of their home in the U.S.
May 5, 2017
Wow!!! What a conclusion to one of the best action packed Mafia/Bratva stories that I have read in a very long time. I highly recommend this trilogy to mafia lovers. 10/10 for Kat Shehata for a brilliant story.
May 5, 2017
What a powerful story. Couldn't put down. The Love of vadinmer and Carter was so strong. They went through hell and back to finally be a family, Carter never gave up. She said "I promise" oh how she meant it. Such powerful, love story read
May 7, 2017
Absolutely amazing! Criminal was a pager turner from start to end. I didn't think the roller coaster would end. My heart would race my hands would sweat and I couldn't believe what was happening through the story. This series was brilliant and a must read for anyone looking for a dark romance.
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