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Brash
Brash, aka Ben Collins.
Notorious playboy.
Drop-dead gorgeous.
But rude, impetuous and condescending.
He calls me ‘little girl’ and I hate him.
Except everything changes when our plane crashes
And I’m trapped with him on a deserted island.
I see right through those indigo-blue eyes.
Brash is damaged.
But that doesn’t give him the right to be a douchebag.
I’ll bring him to his knees
… if only he’d stop making me weak in mine.
Aly, aka Alyona Abramovich.
Mafia princess.
Beautiful and alluring
She isn’t the spoiled brat I thought she was.
There’s an innocence about her
which calls to something long buried.
That’s risky for a man like me and a woman like her.
I’m a dirty bastard at the best of times
And this isn’t the best of times...
From international bestselling author SC Daiko comes a thrilling new standalone romantic suspense novel, a spin-off from BRUTE, BEAST and Nanny and the BRATVA BOSS.
Notorious playboy.
Drop-dead gorgeous.
But rude, impetuous and condescending.
He calls me ‘little girl’ and I hate him.
Except everything changes when our plane crashes
And I’m trapped with him on a deserted island.
I see right through those indigo-blue eyes.
Brash is damaged.
But that doesn’t give him the right to be a douchebag.
I’ll bring him to his knees
… if only he’d stop making me weak in mine.
Aly, aka Alyona Abramovich.
Mafia princess.
Beautiful and alluring
She isn’t the spoiled brat I thought she was.
There’s an innocence about her
which calls to something long buried.
That’s risky for a man like me and a woman like her.
I’m a dirty bastard at the best of times
And this isn’t the best of times...
From international bestselling author SC Daiko comes a thrilling new standalone romantic suspense novel, a spin-off from BRUTE, BEAST and Nanny and the BRATVA BOSS.
248 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 17, 2019
140 people are currently reading
755 people want to read
About the author
S.C. Daiko
21 books1,321 followersSC Daiko, aka Siobhan, is a bestselling British author of erotic and contemporary romance. When she isn’t writing or looking after visitors, she loves to swim in the sea, travel around Europe, sample different food and enjoy local wine. Siobhan has worked in the City of London and taught languages in a Welsh high school before moving to Italy, where she now lives with her husband, a Havanese puppy, a wild kitten and two elderly cats. Nothing makes her happier than connecting with readers and fellow authors. You can find her at https://scdaiko.com/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 181 reviews
June 17, 2019
Four stars for Brash 😊!
🌟🌟🌟🌟
This is the first book I've read by S. C. Daiko and I really liked it.
This book was so easy to read and it's a page-turner. Once I started reading I couldn't put it down.
I really liked the relationship between Ben and Aly. At first, they were enemies and after spending time together knowing one another on the isolated island they became so connected that they couldn't live without each other.
I also liked the way Aly she became a young independent woman and show her father that she can live on her own without his money.
If you like to read mafia romance, this is a perfect book for your summer vacation 🙂!
🌟🌟🌟🌟
This is the first book I've read by S. C. Daiko and I really liked it.
This book was so easy to read and it's a page-turner. Once I started reading I couldn't put it down.
I really liked the relationship between Ben and Aly. At first, they were enemies and after spending time together knowing one another on the isolated island they became so connected that they couldn't live without each other.
I also liked the way Aly she became a young independent woman and show her father that she can live on her own without his money.
If you like to read mafia romance, this is a perfect book for your summer vacation 🙂!
June 8, 2019
Having read SC Daiko's other books, BRUTE, BEAST, Nanny and the BRATVA BOSS I was patiently waiting for this spin off novel: Brash's story.
BRASH: Is lighter on the mafia scene & drama but does dip into the mafia world, however this is not the main focus, true romance at it's best is. This story is so different from others you will have read by this author but one thing you will get is a hot gripping storyline with all the feelings, a match made in heaven and proof people can change when they fall to their knees for the one they truly love.
Lovers of Romance a one click must
BRASH: Is lighter on the mafia scene & drama but does dip into the mafia world, however this is not the main focus, true romance at it's best is. This story is so different from others you will have read by this author but one thing you will get is a hot gripping storyline with all the feelings, a match made in heaven and proof people can change when they fall to their knees for the one they truly love.
Lovers of Romance a one click must
June 19, 2019
After barely surviving a plane crash mafia Princess Aly and womanizer Ben are stuck on a deserted island. But when two opposites are forced to work together to survive, they find out they are more alike than they could ever imagine.
SC Daiko is becoming one of my favorite authors. Brash is so compelling it just sucks you in and you can't put it down.
What I loved about this story is the depth of these characters. Aly is trying to live her life without the influence of her father. The situation she finds herself in just shows the inner strength this woman has inside her. Ben is more than an arrogant womanizer, and as the story unfolds you see the true nature of this ambitious man. He is still rude, still arrogant but the feelings he develops for Aly shows a softer side.
And if you think this couple just sails off into the sunset when they get off the island then you are truly mistaken. In fact the true challenge awaits for them off the island.
Action, adventure, and intense chemistry is found in every chapter of this book. Two people who are so wrong for each other that makes this story right!
June 14, 2019
Unlike any romance novel I’ve ever read - in a great way - Brash is a love story that has a truly unique voice. The story follows Aly, a mafia princess who is trying to make her own way in life. She meets Ben (known as Brash for his abrasive personality), and agrees to photograph his new hotel in the Maldives. The two are total opposites - reserved vs brash, innocent vs experienced, young vs older - and they dislike each other from the start. When their plane goes down and leaves them on a deserted island together, they must work together to remain alive and begin to see the positives in each other.
The writing style is fantastic, giving distinct voices to these characters. I loved the forced closeness of them being stranded together. It’s a totally unique spin on the damaged playboy trope - what happens when you take away his options and he actually needs to get to know a woman? This is an extremely steamy book, though all of the intimacy serves to drive the story forward, so it didn’t feel overwhelming. It’s sexy, romantic and a little dirty with a well developed relationship between the characters. The story was so unique that it was hard to put down, and there was no point when I didn’t feel connected to the characters.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The writing style is fantastic, giving distinct voices to these characters. I loved the forced closeness of them being stranded together. It’s a totally unique spin on the damaged playboy trope - what happens when you take away his options and he actually needs to get to know a woman? This is an extremely steamy book, though all of the intimacy serves to drive the story forward, so it didn’t feel overwhelming. It’s sexy, romantic and a little dirty with a well developed relationship between the characters. The story was so unique that it was hard to put down, and there was no point when I didn’t feel connected to the characters.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 17, 2019
If you are looking for a book that will allow you to forget about real life for a while, then look no further. Ms Daiko swept me away in a tide of gentle angst and true love.
Brash, who usually lives up to his nickname, actually has a tender side, and had me weak at the knees. And, while Alyona is a pampered mafia princess, she really comes into her own, when faced with the fight for survival.
Their bond grows deeply amid the uncertainty of the situation they face. I really felt that both characters grew in depth as they let down their barriers and shared their inner thoughts, which made this a compelling read.
There is always something so satisfying when, as a reader, you connect with both the hero and heroine and I did just that with Ben & Alyona. Their story will have your heart swelling with love and add in the sizzling chemistry that the author orchestrated superbly, I’m positive that you will enjoy the ride. This story has all the ingredients of a five star read.
Brash, who usually lives up to his nickname, actually has a tender side, and had me weak at the knees. And, while Alyona is a pampered mafia princess, she really comes into her own, when faced with the fight for survival.
Their bond grows deeply amid the uncertainty of the situation they face. I really felt that both characters grew in depth as they let down their barriers and shared their inner thoughts, which made this a compelling read.
There is always something so satisfying when, as a reader, you connect with both the hero and heroine and I did just that with Ben & Alyona. Their story will have your heart swelling with love and add in the sizzling chemistry that the author orchestrated superbly, I’m positive that you will enjoy the ride. This story has all the ingredients of a five star read.
June 3, 2019
This is such a good book in so many ways. Its well written. It’s got great characters in sexy as hell but arrogant Brash and the surprisingly feisty, intelligent and gorgeous Alyona. The author weaves her magic in creating imagery that transports one to the bliss of the Maldives. It’s got suspense by the shedload and twists and turns that kept me turning over the pages to find out what happens next. She throws in sensual erotica that’s breathtaking and makes one hot and bothered and in need of a cold shower! It’s great to see characters from previous books pop up but it absolutely works as a standalone. It’s the perfect book to delve into and lose yourself on holiday. I can’t wait to see what this talented author writes next. She’s a well deserved, one click, five star author to me.
June 4, 2019
Alyona “Aly” Abramovich is a photographer. Ben “Brash” Cross is luxury hotel owner and a playboy, not to mention a pain in Alyona’s side. She grew up in a Mafia family so she was very sheltered. When Ben invites her to the Maldives to take some professional shots of his hotel she reluctantly agrees. Neither knew what would happen on that trip, when their plane crashes and they are left stranded on a deserted island. Can these two get along long enough to survive the elements....and each other? This is a fantastic enemies to lovers story and a fast read. The chemistry between these two was perfection! This was the first book I have read from SC Daiko and will be looking up her other books. Told in dual POV
June 9, 2019
Brash really was an interesting and unique adventure. I found the premise of this story to start of fairly predictable but then twists a bit. Ben is your standard alphahole (how I love that name), who is older and after a twist of fate falls for the younger Aly. Aly has lived in a gilded cage being a mafia princess but is struggling internally to break free from that cage. I loved the development and growth of these characters and the unusual circumstances they went through.
This book definitely kept my attention and once again I love how we are reintroduced to characters from prior stories and they are woven in.
This book definitely kept my attention and once again I love how we are reintroduced to characters from prior stories and they are woven in.
June 9, 2019
I received an advanced copy of this manuscript and am voluntarily leaving an honest review. I love how even know where the complete opposite from eich other they still where in the same circle at one time they never met before and when they do meet its like the world stopa moving for them even when they have just rich other and they are trying to not like eich other and are trying to hate eich other they can't stay away from eich other
June 15, 2019
4,5 stars
I really like that some of S. C. Daiko’s books have mutual characters. It’s always a pleasure to see more from characters whose stories I enjoyed!!
Alyona “Aly” is the daughter of a Russian mafia kingpin. Ben “Brash” is the owner of a multi-billionaire hotel chain. They mer on Emma’s (she’s Tara’s daughter from “Nanny and the Bratva Boss”) and Aly’s brother’s wedding. Their first encounter only brings out hate to each other. Ben is an asshole to her and treats her like a spoiled brat. When they meet again he offers her a job as a photographer for his resort’s promotion.
I loved the landscape! Maldives is my dream destination 😍 Also, everything that happens after their plane crash gave me some major “Blue Lagoon” vibes-I love the movie!! It was interesting to see how perspectives can change when things you take for granted are lost. Aly grew as a character through everything and she helped Ben see the fault in his ways as well.
This is a really good book; one that I devoured in one sitting and left me only good feelings at the end! I’m looking forward to seeing more of these characters. S. C. Daiko is definitely an 1-click for me from now on!!!
I really like that some of S. C. Daiko’s books have mutual characters. It’s always a pleasure to see more from characters whose stories I enjoyed!!
Alyona “Aly” is the daughter of a Russian mafia kingpin. Ben “Brash” is the owner of a multi-billionaire hotel chain. They mer on Emma’s (she’s Tara’s daughter from “Nanny and the Bratva Boss”) and Aly’s brother’s wedding. Their first encounter only brings out hate to each other. Ben is an asshole to her and treats her like a spoiled brat. When they meet again he offers her a job as a photographer for his resort’s promotion.
I loved the landscape! Maldives is my dream destination 😍 Also, everything that happens after their plane crash gave me some major “Blue Lagoon” vibes-I love the movie!! It was interesting to see how perspectives can change when things you take for granted are lost. Aly grew as a character through everything and she helped Ben see the fault in his ways as well.
This is a really good book; one that I devoured in one sitting and left me only good feelings at the end! I’m looking forward to seeing more of these characters. S. C. Daiko is definitely an 1-click for me from now on!!!
June 15, 2019
The story of Alyona and Ben, and they’re not particularly fond of each other. Aly is a mafia princess and very sheltered, her father is a Bratva boss and very over protective, but Aly is a great photographer and hopes one day to make a business for herself with her talent and agrees to go to the Maldives with Brash to photograph his resort.
And Ben - nicknamed Brash. A hotel multi billionaire who seems to succeed at everything, failure just isn’t in his vocabulary. He’s a player, he likes a good time, but he’s jaded by love and work is his true mistress. He see’s the potential in Aly’s work and what she could do for him.
The story is told in dual POV which I liked.
Things went well at first but the plane crash’s and Aly and Ben find themselves stranded.
I loved how they took their dislikes and angers for each other and their situation to trying to make the best of what they had and ultimately becoming friends, plus more....
An entertaining read. Great characters and a very unique storyline that was very written. I loved it! I highly recommend this book!
And Ben - nicknamed Brash. A hotel multi billionaire who seems to succeed at everything, failure just isn’t in his vocabulary. He’s a player, he likes a good time, but he’s jaded by love and work is his true mistress. He see’s the potential in Aly’s work and what she could do for him.
The story is told in dual POV which I liked.
Things went well at first but the plane crash’s and Aly and Ben find themselves stranded.
I loved how they took their dislikes and angers for each other and their situation to trying to make the best of what they had and ultimately becoming friends, plus more....
An entertaining read. Great characters and a very unique storyline that was very written. I loved it! I highly recommend this book!
August 21, 2019
Ben o Brash(que es cómo le conoce la gente) es un multimillonario que contrata a una fotógrafa para hacer unas fotos en su hotel de las Maldivas.En el viaje de vuelta su avión se queda sin combustible y se estrella.
Ellos viven como náufragos durante 2 meses,tiempo en el que aprenden a sobrevivir a la naturaleza y a ellos mismos.
Acaban enamorándose y un día una lancha aparece y los "rescata",pero el hombre intenta secuestrar Alyona y Ben la salva.
Son rescatados (esta vez de verdad) y llevados a un hospital, dónde aparece el padre de Alyona y se la lleva de vuelta a EEUU, dónde le busca un marido.
Ella se fuga con Ben con quién quiere pasar el resto de su vida dejando a su familia atrás.
Ellos viven como náufragos durante 2 meses,tiempo en el que aprenden a sobrevivir a la naturaleza y a ellos mismos.
Acaban enamorándose y un día una lancha aparece y los "rescata",pero el hombre intenta secuestrar Alyona y Ben la salva.
Son rescatados (esta vez de verdad) y llevados a un hospital, dónde aparece el padre de Alyona y se la lleva de vuelta a EEUU, dónde le busca un marido.
Ella se fuga con Ben con quién quiere pasar el resto de su vida dejando a su familia atrás.
June 3, 2019
Strip away the material things.
Alonya “Aly” Is a mafia princess. She’s 22 and a wannabe be photographer.
Ben Collins”Brash” is an alphahole.
He’s in his 30s older wealthy a playboy.
On a flight back the crash on an isolated island.
Stripped of their material things they must learn to survive and find the under the layers who they really are.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Alonya “Aly” Is a mafia princess. She’s 22 and a wannabe be photographer.
Ben Collins”Brash” is an alphahole.
He’s in his 30s older wealthy a playboy.
On a flight back the crash on an isolated island.
Stripped of their material things they must learn to survive and find the under the layers who they really are.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 9, 2019
A good enemies to lovers story with Ben (the titular Brash) and Alyona taking centre stage. This is a style I enjoy reading And Ben certainly fit the arrogant a....e title to a T. With gorgeous locations for their exploration of each other, Brash takes us on a fast paced journey to happiness.
Having previously read Brute, it was great to catch up with Daniel and Catrin, but I did feel that this book lacked a certain something from the mix. A good, quick, easy read.
Having previously read Brute, it was great to catch up with Daniel and Catrin, but I did feel that this book lacked a certain something from the mix. A good, quick, easy read.
June 18, 2019
This story is so effing amazing. I need me a Brash of my own.
In this story you meet Brash. Mr sexy businessman, who is addicted to working and refuses to let anyone in too deep, except family. Brash is totally yummy and easy to become addicted to.
Then you meet Aly, Miss Mafia Princess. A young woman who wants to find her own way. The plot was amazing and had me glued to the story.
Would you like a tall glass of Brash? Don't mind if it's do!!! 🥰
In this story you meet Brash. Mr sexy businessman, who is addicted to working and refuses to let anyone in too deep, except family. Brash is totally yummy and easy to become addicted to.
Then you meet Aly, Miss Mafia Princess. A young woman who wants to find her own way. The plot was amazing and had me glued to the story.
Would you like a tall glass of Brash? Don't mind if it's do!!! 🥰
June 5, 2019
3 1/2*
Alyona isn’t going to be held back she wants a career despite been a Mafia princess she knows how to look after herself.
Ben/Brash is determined never to fall in love again. He offers Alyona a job but will she accept his challenge? And how can two people judge each other so wrong?
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
Alyona isn’t going to be held back she wants a career despite been a Mafia princess she knows how to look after herself.
Ben/Brash is determined never to fall in love again. He offers Alyona a job but will she accept his challenge? And how can two people judge each other so wrong?
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
June 9, 2019
This story reminder me of cast away and blue lagoon with a.mafia twist I've read all the mafia romance now and really enjoyed them each one different then the next this story was really good i liked the relationship between Ben and alyona and how she dealt with her father to a very good read
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 10, 2019
Another amazing Maffia story from SC Daiko.
Alyona and Brash/Ben, their relations gets off to a very rocky start but over time which they have a lot of stranded on a tropical island they get to know eachother very all is not what it seems.
Just love this story and all the ups and downs inbetween.
Go read it its GREAT.
Alyona and Brash/Ben, their relations gets off to a very rocky start but over time which they have a lot of stranded on a tropical island they get to know eachother very all is not what it seems.
Just love this story and all the ups and downs inbetween.
Go read it its GREAT.
June 3, 2019
He's a player he's rude n he's pretty much a man who gets what he wants. She's a mafias princess she has been kept protected their relationship starts out as benefits but before they get too far into it she wants to stop it. You can not put this book down.
June 6, 2019
Holy moly this book blew me away from the start alyona and Ben story was so beautifully written it justed flowed I could not but this book down please ladies read this book you will not be disappointed I don't want to give anything away so get reading xx
June 9, 2019
Wow what a fast pace read that will have you on the edge of your set. This is a mystery and little thriller that will have you loving this excitement through this book. This is amazing read that will have you on edge and falling in love.
June 15, 2019
I liked the characters. Great seeing old characters mixed with new. The story was a bit slow going for me, hard to get into but good.
June 17, 2019
I cannot tell you how much I loved this story. Survival, deceit, lust all rolled up into an amazing book!
May 6, 2020
Maria Antonietta - per RFS
.
Care fenici e appassionate di mafia romance, questo romanzo è uno spin off di Best e Boss ma, tranquille, si può leggere anche senza aver letto i precedenti volumi perché autoconclusivo.
Gli ingredienti ci sono tutti, la mafia russa sullo sfondo di un naufragio su un’isola deserta e, guarda un po’, una coppia bellissima che proprio non si sopporta.
La protagonista è una principessa della mafia russa Alyona Abramovich, una giovane donna di ventidue anni che ambisce a diventare fotografa e, oltre a essere viziata, possiede un bel caratterino.
Lui è Ben Collins detto Brash, presuntuoso di nome e di fatto, che ha quasi quarant’anni e lo avevamo già conosciuto da giovanissimo in Best come nipote di Gleb Sokolov. L’uomo che è diventato rimane sempre un playboy, adesso anche milionario e caso vuole che sia socio in affari del padre di Alyona, il temuto boss Semion Abramovich.
L’incontro tra i due avviene a NewYork a un matrimonio e l’impressione reciproca non è delle migliori. Si rivedono dopo un mese e Ben le propone un incarico come fotografa per occuparsi di un reportage alle Madive in un resort di sua proprietà, la ragazza accetta immediatamente e i due partono per un’avventura che mai avrebbero pensato di vivere.
Il naufragio su un’isola deserta alle Maldive è lo scenario mozzafiato che ci viene descritto e che i due protagonisti, unici superstiti, dovranno affrontare. Vi avviso che da qui in poi le scene diventano particolarmente bollenti e decisamente vietate ai minori. Se la carne è debole che effetto avrà sui loro cuori questa convivenza forzata? Ben è un single incallito, ferito da un amore impossible che gli ha spezzato il cuore e si è ripromesso di non innamorarsi mai più. Lui la considera una sciocca bionda Barbie e tutto si aspetta tranne che trovarsi un’affascinante e coraggiosa compagna di avventura.
La passione e l’amore divampano immediatamente, forse troppo, non mi aspettavo una capitolazione così veloce. Ma le vere perplessità le affronteranno al ritorno alla normalità e sarà questo a svelare se i loro sentimenti sono frutto di una convivenza forzata o del vero amore.
La trama è decisamente avvincente e anomala per un mafia romance, molto soft, avrei preferito più tribolazione d’amore ma è solo un giudizio personale.
La lettura è scorrevole e il punto di vista nella narrazione è di entrambi i protagonisti, ma è molto interessante la descrizione dei luoghi e il cambio di ambientazione durante il racconto.
Questo amore nato per caso e con i presupposti inesistenti è una bellissima love story che dovrà vivere il vero naufragio proprio nel luogo chiamato casa. E se Alyona fosse stata già promessa in sposa a un altro uomo come da tradizione mafiosa? Qui il gioco si fa duro e… non posso dirvi altro, vi toccherà leggerlo e non ve ne pentirete. Buona lettura!
.
Care fenici e appassionate di mafia romance, questo romanzo è uno spin off di Best e Boss ma, tranquille, si può leggere anche senza aver letto i precedenti volumi perché autoconclusivo.
Gli ingredienti ci sono tutti, la mafia russa sullo sfondo di un naufragio su un’isola deserta e, guarda un po’, una coppia bellissima che proprio non si sopporta.
La protagonista è una principessa della mafia russa Alyona Abramovich, una giovane donna di ventidue anni che ambisce a diventare fotografa e, oltre a essere viziata, possiede un bel caratterino.
Lui è Ben Collins detto Brash, presuntuoso di nome e di fatto, che ha quasi quarant’anni e lo avevamo già conosciuto da giovanissimo in Best come nipote di Gleb Sokolov. L’uomo che è diventato rimane sempre un playboy, adesso anche milionario e caso vuole che sia socio in affari del padre di Alyona, il temuto boss Semion Abramovich.
L’incontro tra i due avviene a NewYork a un matrimonio e l’impressione reciproca non è delle migliori. Si rivedono dopo un mese e Ben le propone un incarico come fotografa per occuparsi di un reportage alle Madive in un resort di sua proprietà, la ragazza accetta immediatamente e i due partono per un’avventura che mai avrebbero pensato di vivere.
Il naufragio su un’isola deserta alle Maldive è lo scenario mozzafiato che ci viene descritto e che i due protagonisti, unici superstiti, dovranno affrontare. Vi avviso che da qui in poi le scene diventano particolarmente bollenti e decisamente vietate ai minori. Se la carne è debole che effetto avrà sui loro cuori questa convivenza forzata? Ben è un single incallito, ferito da un amore impossible che gli ha spezzato il cuore e si è ripromesso di non innamorarsi mai più. Lui la considera una sciocca bionda Barbie e tutto si aspetta tranne che trovarsi un’affascinante e coraggiosa compagna di avventura.
La passione e l’amore divampano immediatamente, forse troppo, non mi aspettavo una capitolazione così veloce. Ma le vere perplessità le affronteranno al ritorno alla normalità e sarà questo a svelare se i loro sentimenti sono frutto di una convivenza forzata o del vero amore.
La trama è decisamente avvincente e anomala per un mafia romance, molto soft, avrei preferito più tribolazione d’amore ma è solo un giudizio personale.
La lettura è scorrevole e il punto di vista nella narrazione è di entrambi i protagonisti, ma è molto interessante la descrizione dei luoghi e il cambio di ambientazione durante il racconto.
Questo amore nato per caso e con i presupposti inesistenti è una bellissima love story che dovrà vivere il vero naufragio proprio nel luogo chiamato casa. E se Alyona fosse stata già promessa in sposa a un altro uomo come da tradizione mafiosa? Qui il gioco si fa duro e… non posso dirvi altro, vi toccherà leggerlo e non ve ne pentirete. Buona lettura!
July 1, 2020
Recensione a cura di Persefone per Feel the Book
Rispetto ai due precedenti romanzi, di cui Brash è spin-off, non sono rimasta particolarmente colpita. Certo, lo stile dell’autrice è sempre presente, i personaggi accattivanti, la protagonista femminile ha il suo perché e il protagonista maschile è affascinante ma la storia, nel suo insieme, non è riuscita a conquistarmi.
Non possiamo definire questo libro un mafia romance perché l’unico riferimento mafioso è legato alla protagonista. Figlia di un boss della mafia russa e trattata come una principessa viziata e superficiale, il suo incontro con Brash non nasce sotto i migliori auspici. Vuoi la differenza di età, vuoi il rapporto che lega Brash alle donne, i due non si apprezzano. Aly, però, riesce a ottenere da lui la possibilità di fare un servizio fotografico in uno dei resort. Vittime di un incidente aereo l’ultimo giorno di permanenza alle Maldive, i due si ritrovano su un’isola deserta. Trascorreranno settimane in cui le barriere che entrambi tengono ben sollevate cadono e mostreranno il loro vero IO senza timore di apparire deboli. Capiremo così perché Brash tiene le donne a distanza trattandole con fare arrogante; ha il cuore ferito e Aly, mostrandosi ben diversa da quella che tutti pensano di conoscere, la ragazzina, dimostrerà di avere carattere e idee ben precise per il suo futuro.
La permanenza nell’isola svilupperà tutto il lato puramente romance del libro lasciando un briciolo di azione, ma proprio solo un briciolo, nella seconda parte della storia. La nascita dell’amore, le difficoltà di sopravvivenza, il sesso appassionato, legheranno Brash e Aly intensamente. Si troveranno a dover combattere, però, con le decisioni del padre di lei che ha già pianificato il futuro della figlia. Troveremo in questa seconda parte due camei che legano il libro ai precedenti e vedremo la storia arrivare al lieto fine.
Il libro si legge tranquillamente in un paio d’ore, racconta una storia romantica in un ottimo stile di scrittura senza però lasciare particolari tracce.
Editing a cura di Ash.
Rispetto ai due precedenti romanzi, di cui Brash è spin-off, non sono rimasta particolarmente colpita. Certo, lo stile dell’autrice è sempre presente, i personaggi accattivanti, la protagonista femminile ha il suo perché e il protagonista maschile è affascinante ma la storia, nel suo insieme, non è riuscita a conquistarmi.
Non possiamo definire questo libro un mafia romance perché l’unico riferimento mafioso è legato alla protagonista. Figlia di un boss della mafia russa e trattata come una principessa viziata e superficiale, il suo incontro con Brash non nasce sotto i migliori auspici. Vuoi la differenza di età, vuoi il rapporto che lega Brash alle donne, i due non si apprezzano. Aly, però, riesce a ottenere da lui la possibilità di fare un servizio fotografico in uno dei resort. Vittime di un incidente aereo l’ultimo giorno di permanenza alle Maldive, i due si ritrovano su un’isola deserta. Trascorreranno settimane in cui le barriere che entrambi tengono ben sollevate cadono e mostreranno il loro vero IO senza timore di apparire deboli. Capiremo così perché Brash tiene le donne a distanza trattandole con fare arrogante; ha il cuore ferito e Aly, mostrandosi ben diversa da quella che tutti pensano di conoscere, la ragazzina, dimostrerà di avere carattere e idee ben precise per il suo futuro.
La permanenza nell’isola svilupperà tutto il lato puramente romance del libro lasciando un briciolo di azione, ma proprio solo un briciolo, nella seconda parte della storia. La nascita dell’amore, le difficoltà di sopravvivenza, il sesso appassionato, legheranno Brash e Aly intensamente. Si troveranno a dover combattere, però, con le decisioni del padre di lei che ha già pianificato il futuro della figlia. Troveremo in questa seconda parte due camei che legano il libro ai precedenti e vedremo la storia arrivare al lieto fine.
Il libro si legge tranquillamente in un paio d’ore, racconta una storia romantica in un ottimo stile di scrittura senza però lasciare particolari tracce.
Editing a cura di Ash.
June 16, 2019
I loved this wonderful read. This entertaining read delivers a welcome combination of steam, drama, suspense, twists, danger, action and emotions. Lots of sparks and banter fly between Brash and Aly. I really liked the evolution of the relationship between these two. From enemies, to castaways working together to survive, to surprising friends, to lovers. There was a lot of personal growth for these two during the story for these characters and I found that very entertaining. I am posting my independant, impartial review.
May 11, 2020
3.5 STELLE
RECENSIONE COMPLETA SU https://www.allcoloursofromance.it/br...
Copia ARC inviata gratuitamente dalla Queen Edizioni in cambio di una recensione onesta e sincera
RECENSIONE COMPLETA SU https://www.allcoloursofromance.it/br...
Copia ARC inviata gratuitamente dalla Queen Edizioni in cambio di una recensione onesta e sincera
Dopo Beast e Boss torna SC Daiko, sempre grazie alla Queen Edizioni, con un nuovo Mafia Romance con titolo Brash.
Brash è una novella ambientata in un luogo paradisiaco che per i nostri due protagonisti, avrebbe potuto trasformarsi nel peggiore inferno, soprattutto se condiviso da due persone che a malapena riescono a sopportarsi.
Alyona “Aly” Abramovich è la ventiduenne figlia di un mafioso russo ma, al contrario di quanto si possa pensare non è la ricca e viziata figlia di papà.
La fotografia, da quando le è stata regalata la sua prima macchina fotografica, è il suo scopo nella vita oltre che, la sua più grande passione.
Immortalare situazioni particolari e ambientazioni spettacolari è il suo sogno per questo, desidera trasformarlo nella propria professione.
Il padre e padrone, ne è reticente, vede la figlia come un oggetto da plasmare e modellare a proprio gusto, un burattino inanimato costretto solo al suo volere e, quello che Papa desidera è vederla diventare una buona moglie per il figlio di un altro membro della Bratva russa e continuare attraverso di lui il controllo e la protezione che la figlia di un Boss merita.
«Potresti dedicarti ad aiutare tua mamma con le sue beneficienze…» Non aggiunse mentre aspetti di sposarti, ma conoscevo il messaggio nascosto. Papa era all’antica. Secondo lui, il posto adatto a una donna era a fianco del suo uomo. Non che io ne avessi uno. La mia più grande paura era che lui potesse provare a organizzare un matrimonio per me, come era successo a lui e alla mamma.
Ma Aly non è per niente d’accordo e quando decide di accettare l’incarico di Ben Collins, vede sempre più vicina la realizzazione del suo sogno.
Ben Collins soprannominato da tutti “Brash” per la sua arroganza ed insolenza, è un quasi quarantenne milionario, playboy e ideatore di strutture alberghiere.
Da poco più di un anno, ha aperto l’hotel All Seasons alle Maldive e desidera che Aly applichi la sua visione artistica alla narrazione del sito delle foto che invoglino la permanenza nel suo resort.
Ah e non accetta un no come risposta!
Quindi, allacciate le cinture e preparatevi a partire per un posto paradisiaco.
Ma sarà realmente così?
Beh già andare d’accordo tra di loro non sarà cosa semplice, l’arroganza e la strafottenza di Brash non aiutano il migliore dei dialoghi.
È un uomo affascinante e sicuro di sé ma allo stesso tempo uno stronzo di proporzioni epiche, per fortuna che la loro permanenza nella stessa isola durerà solo un paio di giorni.
Qualcosa però, sta per andare storto.
Un naufragio.
Un’isola deserta.
Due persone che a mala pena si sopportano obbligate dalle circostanze a condividere gli stessi spazi per la sopravvivenza.
Brash e Aly e il mare sconfinato delle Maldive.
Può la totale indifferenza trasformarsi in un sentimento vero, puro, mai provato prima d’ora?
La risposta è Sì ma, per scoprire tutti i retroscena di una storia a metà strada tra Cast Away e Laguna blu, l’unica cosa che dovrete fare sarà leggere Brash.
Ben Collins, proprietario multimiliardario di hotel di lusso, e Alyona Abramovich, principessa della mafia… Se solo qualcuno ci avesse visti in quel momento, avrebbe pensato di essere finito in un universo parallelo. E avrebbe avuto ragione.
Brash è una storia di sopravvivenza, ma non solo su un’isola deserta, ma anche nella vita.
Aly è alla ricerca del proprio posto nel mondo ma l’ala protettiva di un padre prepotente tende a sedare e soffocare il desiderio di rivalsa e d’indipendenza della ragazza.
È giovane, bella e nonostante la sua giovane età è sicura di sé e delle proprie capacità e Brash riuscirà, nelle asperità di una vita blindata a tirare fuori il meglio di lei.
Lui, invece, è un uomo tormentato, tormentato da un amore mancato, da un amore mai vissuto e per questo motivo, a quasi quaranta anni, si è precluso ogni rapporto se non per mero piacere carnale con qualsiasi donna desideri condividere con lui un momento di passione.
Passione che Brash ha da vendere ma che si nega di fronte alla verginale ed innocente Aly.
Ma non potevo farmi Aly. Primo, perché era vergine e secondo, non si meritava una sveltina e tanti saluti ragazza, che rappresentava il mio modus operandi. Torna a disprezzarla, Brash. Metti zizzania tra di voi o te ne pentirai. L’ultima donna che è stata tua amica ti ha spezzato il cuore.
Una “Ragazzina” così pura e fragile ma anche determinata e irriverente.
Aly era veramente diversa. A volte mi sorprendeva, mostrandosi molto più matura rispetto alla sua età. Come quando era riuscita a capire come trasformare in corda le fibre del cocco. Altre volte, la sua ingenuità mi faceva andare su tutte le furie. Pregavo Dio che non stesse sviluppando certi sentimenti. Sentimenti che non ricambiavo. Mi piaceva, ma solo perché eravamo intrappolati qui insieme. In qualsiasi altra circostanza, non sarei uscito con lei, non avrei trascorso tempo con lei o infranto la mia regola di non farmi una ragazza più di una volta. Aly non era il mio tipo.
Sarà dura non cedere alla tentazione o confondere l’Amore con il sesso.
C’era qualcosa in lei che mi attirava come un pesce è attratto dalla lenza. Ero stato con così tante donne, che avevo perso il conto.
Ancora una volta SC Daiko ci ha permesso di conoscere due personaggi accattivanti ed insoliti, legati ad un mondo fatto di criminalità e violenza.
Aly, come vi ho già raccontato qui sopra, è figlia di un membro della Bratva russa ed è la migliore amica di Emma – Figlia di Taras protagonista di Boss - e Brash?
Brash apparentemente è pulito ma in fondo come si dice “anche il più pulito ha la rogna” e solo verso la fine scopriremo che è il nipote di Gleb - protagonista di Beast -.
Questo file rouge legherà i capitoli precedenti a questo terzo della serie.
Non ci saranno grossi colpi di scena o cruente mutilazioni, tutto filerà stranamente liscio come l’olio ed è forse questa l’unica pecca di questa breve storia.
Manca il patos – di eros invece ne è ricca - che contraddistingue il genere e mi ha un po’ delusa, se fosse stato definito Romantic Suspence probabilmente lo avrei apprezzato maggiormente o letto con una maggiore consapevolezza.
Forse mi aspettavo di più che una romantica storia d’amore con tanta passione su un’isola deserta.
«Ascolta, Aly. Come disse una volta Shakespeare, amore non è amore se muta quando scopre un mutamento. Quello che provo per te è davvero profondo.»
In ogni caso potrei consigliarvelo per questi motivi:
June 16, 2019
Alyona Abramovich is a Mafia princess who wants to live her own life and not the one her dad wants her to live. When she has to opportuntiy to take some pictures for a new hotel chain she jumps on the chance even though it means she will be working with Ben Collins, a friend of her brothers and well known playboy.
Ben "Brash" Collins is a billionaire hotel developer who is constantly working and striving for more. He sees a talent in Alyona and knows he can use it to his advantage for his new hotel in the Maldives and get it some extra publicity.
When Brash and Aly are returning from Maldives they unexpectedly crash and now are stuck on a deserted island together. Sworn enemies the two need to do what it takes to survive but can they call a truce before one of them kills the other one?
I really like the enemies to lovers books as you start off with so much animosity and gradually know things are going to change and I liked that this one was different than most of them out there.
Aly lived a privileged life but she was still very much controlled by what her father wanted to do and that was settle down with a man from the right family to continue on and make a powerful merger. That was nothing that Aly wanted for herself as she loved taking photographs and wanted her own life.
Ben is a man who is to the point and driven by his successes in work. He is known for all the women he has been through and he stays as far away from relationships as he possibly can. He is also known as "Brash" due to his no nonsense attitude that leaves no room for questions or second guesses. He strives on getting more and never stops working.
When the plane crashed I was happy that Ben did everything he could to make sure Aly survived and he never gave up. I was impressed with everything that Ben was able to accomplish on the island and how both he and Aly made the best of the situation and did what they could to survive. It helped that they had some help from people that had been there before but they still had to make it.
The sexual tension between the two slowly heated up and it was no surprise as they only had each other. They both grew to love each other but at the same time they were both worried that it was only because of the island and if they never crashed things wouldn't be the same. I liked how it all progressed and developed and how they both gradually opened up to each other about certain things, specifically Ben.
I was worried at a certain point when a boat lands and what happens afterwords and I knew they would survive but I wasn't sure at what cost. I was so mad at Aly's dad for his decisions after everything she had been through. I knew why he was protective but the arrangements he made were not right and I was frustrated for sure!
I understood why both Ben and Aly made a rash decision after but I was worried when Ben's parents reacted the way they did and I was shocked at what Aly's dad did after. I think it was a little too much personally as it took a little weird turn. I'm also super curious to understand how Ben's Uncle Gleb was able to turn the situation around so fast.
The end was awesome and I really loved the update we got for a year down the road and what Ben surprised Aly with! That was so cool and an awesome surprise!
The epilogue was great and I will definitely be going back and reading the other stories!
Ben "Brash" Collins is a billionaire hotel developer who is constantly working and striving for more. He sees a talent in Alyona and knows he can use it to his advantage for his new hotel in the Maldives and get it some extra publicity.
When Brash and Aly are returning from Maldives they unexpectedly crash and now are stuck on a deserted island together. Sworn enemies the two need to do what it takes to survive but can they call a truce before one of them kills the other one?
I really like the enemies to lovers books as you start off with so much animosity and gradually know things are going to change and I liked that this one was different than most of them out there.
Aly lived a privileged life but she was still very much controlled by what her father wanted to do and that was settle down with a man from the right family to continue on and make a powerful merger. That was nothing that Aly wanted for herself as she loved taking photographs and wanted her own life.
Ben is a man who is to the point and driven by his successes in work. He is known for all the women he has been through and he stays as far away from relationships as he possibly can. He is also known as "Brash" due to his no nonsense attitude that leaves no room for questions or second guesses. He strives on getting more and never stops working.
When the plane crashed I was happy that Ben did everything he could to make sure Aly survived and he never gave up. I was impressed with everything that Ben was able to accomplish on the island and how both he and Aly made the best of the situation and did what they could to survive. It helped that they had some help from people that had been there before but they still had to make it.
The sexual tension between the two slowly heated up and it was no surprise as they only had each other. They both grew to love each other but at the same time they were both worried that it was only because of the island and if they never crashed things wouldn't be the same. I liked how it all progressed and developed and how they both gradually opened up to each other about certain things, specifically Ben.
I was worried at a certain point when a boat lands and what happens afterwords and I knew they would survive but I wasn't sure at what cost. I was so mad at Aly's dad for his decisions after everything she had been through. I knew why he was protective but the arrangements he made were not right and I was frustrated for sure!
I understood why both Ben and Aly made a rash decision after but I was worried when Ben's parents reacted the way they did and I was shocked at what Aly's dad did after. I think it was a little too much personally as it took a little weird turn. I'm also super curious to understand how Ben's Uncle Gleb was able to turn the situation around so fast.
The end was awesome and I really loved the update we got for a year down the road and what Ben surprised Aly with! That was so cool and an awesome surprise!
The epilogue was great and I will definitely be going back and reading the other stories!
June 19, 2019
I received a copy of this book from the publishr/author to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.
I'm cast away on a tripical island with a dirty, damaged alpha-hole. Women swoon over him. I'm not one of them. I hate him. And I see right throught those indigo-blue eyes. Brash is hurting. But that doesn't give him the right to be a douchebag. Especially now that I'm all he's got here. A mafia princess who know how to set someone straight. I will bring him to his knees. If only he's stop making me weak in mine. His strong arms have become my refuge. And his gorgeous smile, my hope. He tells me that I belong to him. That he will protect me in this dangerous place. But what happens if my heart is at risk? Who will save me then?
I so love a good enemies to lovers book and S.C. Daiko has delivered an amazing one in spades. I was so engrossed in this book that I read it in a day. I am not a super speedy reader so that tell me that I loved it. This is the story of a mafia princess Aly and Ben who is called Brash for a reason. He is the owner of hotels all over the world and she is a photographer. They meet at an event and he is not very nice to her but he does hire her to go to his resort and take phots of it for his advertisement as his is outdated and not very well done. This is the chance of a lifetime for Aly as she is trying her hardest to lose her mafia princess reputation and get her career off the ground and be taken seriously. But her dad still thinks of her as his little girl and is determinded to have things happen his way and not what she wants at all. When Brash and Aly become trapped on a deserted island after a plane crash that very well should have killed them they have to learn to depend on each other for survivial while waiting to be rescued and figure out just exactly how their sea plane ran out of gas in the middle of the ocean. I loved so much the time these two spent on the island and how they got to really know each other. Will they ever be rescued and who exactly wanted their plane to crash and why? You have to read to find out but I am telling you this book was so good. I can't wait to see what S.C. Daiko gives us next. This is one of my favorites that she has written and one that I am sure I will read again and again.
I'm cast away on a tripical island with a dirty, damaged alpha-hole. Women swoon over him. I'm not one of them. I hate him. And I see right throught those indigo-blue eyes. Brash is hurting. But that doesn't give him the right to be a douchebag. Especially now that I'm all he's got here. A mafia princess who know how to set someone straight. I will bring him to his knees. If only he's stop making me weak in mine. His strong arms have become my refuge. And his gorgeous smile, my hope. He tells me that I belong to him. That he will protect me in this dangerous place. But what happens if my heart is at risk? Who will save me then?
I so love a good enemies to lovers book and S.C. Daiko has delivered an amazing one in spades. I was so engrossed in this book that I read it in a day. I am not a super speedy reader so that tell me that I loved it. This is the story of a mafia princess Aly and Ben who is called Brash for a reason. He is the owner of hotels all over the world and she is a photographer. They meet at an event and he is not very nice to her but he does hire her to go to his resort and take phots of it for his advertisement as his is outdated and not very well done. This is the chance of a lifetime for Aly as she is trying her hardest to lose her mafia princess reputation and get her career off the ground and be taken seriously. But her dad still thinks of her as his little girl and is determinded to have things happen his way and not what she wants at all. When Brash and Aly become trapped on a deserted island after a plane crash that very well should have killed them they have to learn to depend on each other for survivial while waiting to be rescued and figure out just exactly how their sea plane ran out of gas in the middle of the ocean. I loved so much the time these two spent on the island and how they got to really know each other. Will they ever be rescued and who exactly wanted their plane to crash and why? You have to read to find out but I am telling you this book was so good. I can't wait to see what S.C. Daiko gives us next. This is one of my favorites that she has written and one that I am sure I will read again and again.
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