Didn’t you get the hint yet? I’m a bastard, and I own that shit. My soul is dark as well as my actions. In the end, life will always cause pain, it’s the shit you have to endure to appreciate the good things that are scarcely thrown your way. I’m Yegor Volsky, second in command of The Dudnik Circle. The Russian Mob, in case you need a label.
The instant I laid eyes on Ruby, drugged and strapped to a bed, every inch of me swore to protect her from that day forward, even from myself. She needs to know, needs to feel, what it’s like to belong to me. She will hate me for what comes next but it’s inevitable as I hunt down the one responsible for her kidnapping, and putting her in danger.
Family ties that should have been kept buried in the past, come floating to the surface as retribution lies on the horizon. Revenge is a slippery slope and as I brace for the fight to come that will bring the past to collide with the future, I find myself struggling to be worthy of her love. Will we slip in the blood of our enemies or gain traction to move forward?
*** This steamy, dark, kinky, mafia, standalone romance is not for the faint of heart. You’ve been warned. ***
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.
**ARC RECEIVED IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW **
Esther Schmidt keeps knocking it out of the park for me with these stories. They ride a razors edge of darkness and violence, yet you are backing them and their dangerous actions. I love that the angst/drama came from outside sources and not other women/men drama.
Intense, dark, sexy, protective- just a few adjectives to describe Yegor. He knew that if he was going to win the trust of the woman he loved, he had his work cut out for him. Every action and decision he made was for Ruby.
I liked Ruby. In Ford's story (book 1), she was rescued from the gang who was doing the snuff films. Yegor saw her and instantly fell, as did she. Yet her trust was broken when he had the Dr sedate her - even though it was for her own good. I felt for her. No family, the only home she ever had was gone, and the only person she let her guard down for disappointed her. She gave Yegor hell when he needed it, but also showed her vulnerable side when he needed it as well.
-no cheating -no ow/om drama -short bouts of pushing away on both sides but they never lasted long -steamy sex scenes -some scenes with violence -great secondary characters some were from previous books - Peacock, Ford and their loves. Also, I love that we didn't have to see the other potential heroes whoring around. That makes a huge difference to me! -no epilogue but there was a set up for Afon's story. I love how much of the previous stories characters we are seeing so the lack of epilogue is something I'm overlooking
4.5 stars. Another hit by Esther E Schmidt. I have loved every book of this author's that I've read.
This is Yegor and Ruby's story. Ruby was kidnapped by some very bad men. Yegor rescues her and knows from the minute he sees her that she's his. With everything she's been through Yegor gives her space to recover and gives her his home to do it in.
The reason I love Ms. Schmidt's heroes is because even though they're rough around the edges and live on the wrong side of the law, they love their women with a fierceness that most women would hope to find. Every choice Yegor makes after meeting Ruby is with her best interest at heart.
When these two get together, they're hot and perfect for each other in every way. I love that he encourages her and stands at her side while she becomes the woman she's meant to be. These men are the true definition of alpha to me because they're possessive and protective but also allow their women to be strong and stand on their own two feet.
I'm so looking forward to the next book from this author.
Yegor knew that Ruby was his the day he found her drugged and strapped to a bed, he vowed to protect her but when he had to protect his boss he broke his word. He has been trying to earn Ruby's trust ever since. Now that the threat to Ruby seems to have reappeared, Yegor makes a drastic move that changes everything.
Ruby knows that she wants Yegor but he makes her so confused at times and it doesn't help that her temper flares whenever in his presence. Can Yegor and Ruby find a balance while trying to keep her protected at all costs?
Exciting chapter in the Dudnik Circle. I liked this couple from when they were first introduced n the first book. This story had all my favorite components and the introduction to some new characters I am anxious to read about. Full of sizzle, readers of this series will be thrilled.
YEGOR!!!! I WAITED FOR THIS BOOK SINCE FORD. I absolutely LOVED Yegor, he knew Ruby was going to be his since first laid eyes on her. He rescued her but then he betrayed his trust. So she tries to run but YEGOR doesn't let her get far. he gives her his house. He knows he has to earn her trust back before they can get any further. Will he earn her heart and trust or his there to much broken to be repaired. When Ruby was rescued she immediately felt safe with YEGOR even if he was the scariest man ever. She never feared him never questioned he would keep her safe. Then he breaks her in the worst possible way. She runs but he never let her go far. Now she will learn to trust him again or she will be alone and endanger from the people who took her. But when secerts come to,light will she ever be able to forgive the only man who made her feel safe. ***** ARC FOR HONEST REVIEW****
After finished reading, all I can think is... "Freaking again she did it!" And in more than one way.
First, the fucking ending!!! All I could do is to sit there for few minutes with my kindle in hand and feel like I was robbed. I mean,... Shit... Yeah, I'm still blitzed and I can't find words. For that ending Esther needs spanking. Lol.
Second, Yegor... Ah, that dominating sexy as sin mobster. Yup, my beloved book boyfriends, please, squeeze yourself tighter [Does that sounds dirty to you too? ;)] and make room for new guy. I'm not going to say more, because seriously, you need to experience Yegor in person.
I was a teenager when I first heard about snuff films while watching "8mm" with Nicolas Cage, so when I started reading Ford I was intrigued! Getting a glimpse of Yegor and Ruby's story, I had to read how it ended! I wasn't disappointed! Their story was awesome, not as intense or as twisted as Ford's story, but great non the less. Just keep in mind that there are several triggers in the book, so you have been warned!
Honestly I don't think there's anything this author can't write about. With each book she draws you into her main characters stories and then also leaves you hoping that she will write future books for some of the side characters. I've been waiting to see how Yegor and Ruby's story would turn out after the ending in Fords book. And I have to say their story did not disappoint I was drawn in from the very start and loved every minute of it the storyline flowed great it was raw dark and gritty at times but not to much because Esther added the perfect balance of banter,sexual tension and then you get hot as hell sex scenes. Yegor is all kinds of hot and domineering he knows what he wants both in and out of the bedroom which I loved about him . He's loyal to everyone who matters to him. I absolutely loved Ruby even though she had been through something traumatic she didn't give up and allow it to take over life . She's strong and sassy as hell. I've been asked many a times what it is that makes me love Esther's books so much so here's my answer I love that she writes Hot domineering alphas but more than anything I love that her heroines aren't weak even though they have faced something traumatic they don't allow it to take over their lives. They come out fighting with everything they have.
This has to be one of the hottest books I have read by Esther. She gives sexual deprivation and tension a new level. And that ending!!! FML... Esther knows exactly how to give you a story that will keep you on the edge of your seat from page one and falling off the edge of said seat at the end screaming NOOOOO!!! I NEED THE NEXT BOOK!!! Gah I feel like I was a bit gypped but yet I know I wasn't I'm just that excited to get to the next book in the series!
So Yegor, Oh Yegor, hes sexy, dominating, always in control, takes no shit, right hand man. But what happens when Ruby is around... He may still be in control but just one look at her and he could fall to his knees.
Ruby, I wanna be this chick. Even after all that she's gone through she's tough as nails. And she knows plenty of men who would cower from the looks Yegor can send but not her. She stands her ground and gives him sass and attitude right back.
But can these two figure out their differences or will Yegors past come back to bite them in the ass??
Well I'm not telling you, what I will say is go get your copy of Yegor and while you're at it you might want to look at some of her other titles as well. I guarantee if you love dominant men, strong females, and a kick ass storyline you will enjoy Esther's books.
YEGOR by Esther E. Schmidt was highly entertaining! The writing was engaging, the characters were witty and vibrant and the feisty banter between Yegor and his virgin bride Ruby was so lol funny at times I nearly tinkled. 😂And their chemistry was scorching hot! Also thought the interaction with the close-knit Dudnik Circle clan (especially Tarzan who was a RIOT) was hysterical.
But, to be honest, I was a bit underwhelmed with the overall story. It lacked dramatic urgency and I never felt the connection between the MCs beyond the physical.
Also, based on the blurb, I was expecting a MUCH darker and grittier read and I felt like I was missing key components of their backstory story—and Ruby’s subsequent rescue—because a lot of the juicy parts to their story already took place in the previous book. So something definitely felt lost in translation for me since I did not read book 1.
Esther E. Schmidt did an Amazing job on this book. The story is well written. Esther E. Schmidt is a Fabulous Author. I have read every one of her books. Love them all. In this story we have Yegor and Ruby. Yegor is strong, loyal, smart and fierce. He is the second in command of the Dudnik Circle. A Russian Mob. Yegor is dominating, protective, and always in control. And next we have Ruby. Ruby is a strong, smart, feisty, just so much sassy. She stands her ground, will not back down. Loved Yegor and Ruby. They are perfect together. Their chemistry is beyond off the charts sizzling. Sexy pair. This is a great story. It will keep you on the edge of your seat. I could not put this book down. It's filled with emotions. This is a great book. Loved it. I'm looking forward to the next one. I really enjoyed this story. 5 Stars! I highly recommend this book. Thank you, Esther E. Schmidt. Fabulous work <3 :)
This is the second book in this series though I do recommend you read Peacock (standalone) as well as reading the first book Ford as well.
I read Ford last night and as soon as I got up this morning I jumped into Yegor. I couldn't help but read it in one sitting. We met these characters in book one and got the start of Yegor and Ruby's story. As well as Yegor and Ruby we get the rest of the characters Peacock & Karma, Ford & Justice and so many other great characters.
This storyline is brilliant. We have strong alpha males that will do anything for their women. The women love their men but also are strong fierce characters. It's oh so good.
Have you seen I didn't mention how the storyline goes? Nope I ain't letting anything spill. If you want a really well written mob story with amazingly good characters then jump on this now:)
Hot Diggy Dog Esther E Schmidt did it again! I've said all along that this woman had mad writing skills,well this book proves my point. If you want hot as hell sexy alpha male then this is your book. Yegor is in the Russian Mafia 2nd in command, he takes his job serious. Then there's Rudy you would think for someone who was kidnapped she would be this week pansy , but she's has to be tough to be with Yegor, they are explosive together ( in a good way) I can't say enough positive about this book, I am such a big fan, this book has laughter, makes your heart stop a time or two, you start it and you don't want to put it down, then when your done you want to start all over again. Guess you could say I Loved it!!!!!!
4.5/5 Dark dirty safe read! -Insta love -slight pushing away -OTT Alpha male -Dark Dirty violent -Virgin h -H has not been with anyone since before meeting h -H did not a Man whore -No OW Drama -h is sassy and tough -tons of LOL and OMG moments -HFN no epilogue witch is disappointing -again a safe dark read!
But all characters from this series are seen in each book. looking forward to the next book
Wow!!! Esther always writes amazing books, but she may have outdone herself here! Yegor is my favorite alpha to date! He and Ruby have an exciting and sexy story told here, they are both strong willed and I loved seeing it all come together!! This is yet another must read from Esther!
As someone who has read nearly every single book Esther has put out (all but 2, pretty impressive yeah?), I can tell you that once again she’s effectively changed my favorite book of hers from Peacock to Yegor! Trust me, it’s frustrating! Why? Because I love all the characters and besides that, I love peacocks in general!
But onto my review!
In order to be familiar with the characters in Yegor and Ruby’s story, it's a great idea to read the three books before this one. The reading order is: Ford (The Dudnick Circle #1), Peacock (The Faults of Our Sins) then Yegor (The Dudnick Circle #2). However, all three can be read as standalones!
Yegor is dark, mysterious, strong, loyal, some think a bit crazy. That’s all wrapped into a heart stopping, sexy-licous hunk! Life may have made him a hardened man (get your mind of the gutter! Although…...my thoughts wander that way too….) who is both feared and respected by many. He’s made a name for himself as a ruthless man who will take down anyone that dares to cross him or the one he cares about. But what so many don’t see, is the man beneath the cloak of darkness. The man who vows to protect a woman he helped to rescue from a horrific situation. He may not understand why this feeling comes to him, but its there. What now?
Ruby is a strong willed, slightly nutty, passionate, intense and independent woman who is learning how to cope with what happened to her. She survived a kidnapping, being drugged and tied to a bed unwillingly. One thing is for sure, no one will ever make the mistake of trying to hurt her again. Even though she knows in her heart Yegor won’t hurt her, it doesn’t stop her from pushing him away every chance she gets. He may have set her up in a better situation, but she won’t let him own her heart. But she has a soft spot for the man who rescued her. How does she get past these feelings?
Their journey is freaking incredible. Be prepared for a roller coaster of a ride as the emotions are drawn out of you! Esthers creative writing style introduces you to characters that find their way into your soul and take up residence. I loved the way the characters from the previous books were entwined and not forgotten. I loved this book so much!!!! It took my breath away and it’s one I’ll be reading again. I have to say I’m not one for dark romance usually, but I make the exception for Esther!!
This is the second book in this series and I think they should be read in order. This book continues on from the first book with Yegor and Ruby’s story. Yegor knew that Ruby was the one for him the first time he laid eyes on her strapped to that table and drugged. He then did the worst thing he could have done and had her drugged again but this time it was for her protection. Now they need to figure out who had her kidnapped in the first place and why they wanted her specifically. They begin to piece things together and they think they have figured out who wanted her and why. Family from Yegor’s past maybe involved. Yegor will do whatever he has to in order to protect Ruby. They aren’t in this fight alone though. This book has danger, romance, and even a few funny bits. I really loved this book and I want the next one like now. Yegor and Ruby are a great couple. While Ruby did try and push him away for a while he wasn’t really going anywhere. He was just giving her the time she needed. I love that characters from some of the other books cross over into this one. I love Esther’s books and always look forward to the next one. I was given this book in return for an honest review.
Yegor is the second book in Esther E. Schmidt’s The Dudnik Circle series and holy geez, this book is great. I did not read the first one and was able to pick up easily without missing anything. Needless to say, I have gone back and bought book 1 to read. This book is Yegor’s story and he is completely obsessed with Ruby the girl that they rescued in book one. He knows that he has done things to make her hate him but is still determined to claim her and keep her safe. I loved Ruby because even though she has gone through horrible things, she refuses to allow it to break her and Yegor being the strong man that he is becomes her rock. This book is full of hot mafia men, suspense, action and totally smokin’ scenes. While this author is new to me, I have recently caught up on almost all her books. Once you read this book you will know why and will be as addicted to her writing as I am. So I highly suggest that you get started now, so that you are ready to go for her next amazing release.
Spellbinding read, couldn't put it down. thrilling from beginning to end, action and excitement. Ruby is feisty, determined to be able to defend herself and understand those around her no matter what language they speak, luckily she seems to pick up both quite easily. Yegor may have rescued Ruby but after doing that he did the one thing she asked him not to do so she has pushed him away, until the day his house alarm goes off. Do not expect silly soppy lovey dovey with this couple, its more like fireworks and boxing gloves but it works. With more friends and colleagues being made amongst the various groups I see at least a few more books in the future, which is great news for me. This does contain graphic violence and sex, all in the context of the story and in no way deflects from the events happening in the plot. Awesome, fantastic and it kept me hooked. Worth more than the 5 stars I am allowed to mark as far as I am concerned, Definitely a best seller. I cant wait for more.
***ARC provided in exchange for an honest review***
I have been so not patiently waiting for this book and boy did Esther not disappoint me in the least. Yegor is a dominant man who took one look at Ruby and the man was hooked, too bad a decision to protect his boss makes him lose Ruby's trust. Ruby has been through hell but she doesn't let what happened to her define her, she makes the past her b**ch and decide to kill the man responsible for every bit of turmoil that she went through. These two know they have feelings for each other and Yegor is tired of waiting so is about time that she learns who she belongs to. The sexual tension and chemistry between the pair will literally melt your panties off, its that HOT. The action, drama and just all around goodness in this book will leave you panting and waiting for more. Once again Esther has another hit on her hands I just need book three like yesterday.
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of this book. From the very beginning I was caught up in the unfolding drama. There were plot twists and turns that I didn't see coming. We were given glimpses of what it going on with all the Dudnik Circle and their ladies. I also appreciated catching up with Peacock and hopefully meeting future heroes (Ricca & Borya) As a reader you could feel the attraction between Yegor and Ruby. Their chemistry was sizzling. One of the things I enjoy most about an Esther Schmidt book is her alpha heroes. She writes the perfect combination of sexy, possessive, caring and bad boy all rolled in to the perfect book boyfriend. I for one can't wait for her next book no matter what genre.
Yegor is the second book in this series and it was definitely a better read than Ford’s book.
Yegor rescues his Ruby from a traumatic experience and falls on so hard at first sight. He decides he’s going to keep her at his place and with time she will be for the taking!
There are character appearances by ford and Tarzan. The girls bond as Tarzan has decided to help Ruby.
The premise for a great book was definitely there, it just wasn’t dark or gritty that I had been anticipating. Their tit for tat added comedy to this book.
Esther has really outdone herself with Yegor and Ruby's story! I didn't want to put this book down once I started in fact I did continue to read when I brought my kids fishing :) I loved that we got to see Ford, Tarzan, Peacock, and Karma again and met Andy. I think Andy fits in well with the rest of the kick a$$ ladies. I can't wait for Afon's story, hopefully he gets the girl he wants.
I love everything this author writes! She knows how to twist everything into one & serve it on a silver platters to you! This book is just as great as her other books! Yegor isn't my favorite of all but boy this book is just as great as the others. Don't let me forget to mention all the action that's through your of this book! I can't wait for the next book!
Loved Yegor! Loved Ruby! Together they are awesome! He is rough and dirty, she is sweet but tough as nails. They were like watching a boxing match with fireworks. A fantastic story of love and getting revenge. That ending though! I need the next book NOW!!
Four and half stars! This was the first time I had ever read anything by this author and can I say I was thoroughly impressed. Once I started I could not put down. Initially Ruby seemed to be helpless, timid girl who is saved by the H. But surprisingly she was a feisty h who was not adverse to saying and doing what she felt was right. At times she came across as a bit selfish but she eventually redeemed herself. Yegor was a strong alpha male who believed in taking what he wanted and no discussion was needed. He was also very caring and adored Ruby but did not feel he was good enough for her. The sexual chemistry between these two was off the page and with the side characters added in this was a great book. Looking forward to the next one and I know have to go back and read the first!!
This book was Hot..Yegor is not a man to be toyed with..unless your Ruby
Jude (Ruby) was kidnapped, drugged, and waiting to be transported to a guy who planned to use her in a snuff film. Lucky for her, Yegor and the Dudnik Circle found her..and double luck for her, Yegor claimed her as his. Sure, he has to overcome a few set backs, but ultimately, she’s his and she’ll have to accept that and all his darkness. Ruby on the other hand has to deal with her newfound self. The old Ruby is gone, the new Ruby is sassy, fierce, and eager to kick as for revenge. They make a perfect couple.
Loved Yegor and Ruby together. He is dominate and all alpha like and she gives as good as she gets. Their chemistry is hot and at times..they are funny as hell.
Loved this book..sad that Aron’s book will be the last one..this group and their friends are awesome.
It’s just plain OTT weird. Everyone was rude to each other because they were jealous and ridiculously possessive. Maybe I just wasn’t in the mood for something too overly crazy. So the first chapter consist on the H shooting his doctor because he did a medical procedure to h that had him looking at her vagina. Okay wtf bro.. that was so uncalled for. And then the next chapter the h was snapping and being rude to a woman that came to their place to give the H their marriage license. She didn’t know about it but drew her own conclusion, being jealous and all thinking that was the H’s mistress or sth idk. She didn’t say sorry even after she knew that the woman was harmless. The next chapter we got H’s boss called the h bitch just because she hinted something sexual at his wife, she was joking too and I just found that soooo OTT. I was done with that so yeah bye.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.