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Club XXX #3
Surrender
In the final round of their twisted game, Francesca and Maxim have the ultimate choice to make: surrender to their dangerous attraction, or succumb to the many dangers driving them apart.
With her heart at stake, Francesca must weigh her family’s safety over her own, and trust that Maxim can truly triumph over his past trauma…
Or it will be game over for them both.
With her heart at stake, Francesca must weigh her family’s safety over her own, and trust that Maxim can truly triumph over his past trauma…
Or it will be game over for them both.
326 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 14, 2020
84 people are currently reading
320 people want to read
About the author
Lana Sky
61 books1,327 followersI am a quirky writer from the US who dabbles in dark, paranormal and contemporary romance. My stories aren't always typical, but contain a little something for everyone.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
February 1, 2023
took a shot every time he told her to run away and she didn’t. was sloshed by chapter 2.
July 31, 2024
Surrender brought the clarity i needed in the end.
Frankie started to understand Maxim a little better as he opened up to her a little more.
And Maxim seemed ready to give her what she needed,a life with him as well as her siblings.
How that was supposed to work remained a mystery at first,because even though her siblings were taken care of,they didn’t know him,not really.
And that meant the older ones especially didn’t really trust him.
Add to that the situation with his family,and his grandfather in particular,and a happy after seemed…difficult.
How to deal with that man,that was the question.
Because Anatoli is a controlling,mean and ruthless old man,determined to bring Maxim to heel.
The old Maxim might have considered it…..maybe….but this Maxim?
He’ll go to war before he’ll be forced to do that bastard’s bidding ever again!
Even if he has to ask the only man he doesn’t want to see for help.
His halfbrother,Vadim.
A man that’s worse than he is,a man that suffered at the hands of their family as much,and maybe even more than him.
A lot happened in this last part of Maxim and Frankie’s story and it kept me glued to the pages until i had all the answers.
To see him do his best to give her what she needed,to see him change was good.
It made him human,it made him likeable,and it made him worthy.
To see Frankie grow from that desperate girl that was responsible for her siblings to a woman that acknowledged her need for a life of her own was good.
To see her find a balance and accept the kind of woman she was,gave me hope.
For these two tortured souls to build a life together,with her siblings,that was good.
Vadim has his story next. Am i going to read it?
Am i curious enough to go through that kind of agony again?
Maybe later…..right now,i want to soothe my battered heart……
Frankie started to understand Maxim a little better as he opened up to her a little more.
And Maxim seemed ready to give her what she needed,a life with him as well as her siblings.
How that was supposed to work remained a mystery at first,because even though her siblings were taken care of,they didn’t know him,not really.
And that meant the older ones especially didn’t really trust him.
Add to that the situation with his family,and his grandfather in particular,and a happy after seemed…difficult.
How to deal with that man,that was the question.
Because Anatoli is a controlling,mean and ruthless old man,determined to bring Maxim to heel.
The old Maxim might have considered it…..maybe….but this Maxim?
He’ll go to war before he’ll be forced to do that bastard’s bidding ever again!
Even if he has to ask the only man he doesn’t want to see for help.
His halfbrother,Vadim.
A man that’s worse than he is,a man that suffered at the hands of their family as much,and maybe even more than him.
A lot happened in this last part of Maxim and Frankie’s story and it kept me glued to the pages until i had all the answers.
To see him do his best to give her what she needed,to see him change was good.
It made him human,it made him likeable,and it made him worthy.
To see Frankie grow from that desperate girl that was responsible for her siblings to a woman that acknowledged her need for a life of her own was good.
To see her find a balance and accept the kind of woman she was,gave me hope.
For these two tortured souls to build a life together,with her siblings,that was good.
Vadim has his story next. Am i going to read it?
Am i curious enough to go through that kind of agony again?
Maybe later…..right now,i want to soothe my battered heart……
July 9, 2021
⭒ 5 stars ⭒
maxim is a new obsession of mine.
that's it. that's all.
maxim is a new obsession of mine.
that's it. that's all.
May 15, 2020
Omg, I finally made it to the end. One thing I will say is that these characters kept me reading till the end. This book is the best of the trilogy and FINALLY has Frankie and Maxim communicating in full sentences and having proper conversations. It was glorious to read and experience after the near silence of the first two books. Maxim’s change from book 1 is pretty remarkable and I kind of fell in love with him. Frankie is still a tad annoying but she did come into her own finally. Here we actually get relationship growth, not just lust and stoic grunts while Frankie tries to read Maxim’s body language for hints as to whether he’ll kill her that day. There’s definitely love here, and the moments where Maxim finally experiences emotional vanilla sex is pretty wonderful.
But the main letdown here, for me, was that the intensity of the writing didn’t match where the plot went. When the ending came I was underwhelmed. Don’t get me wrong, I loved how Maxim and Frankie got their HFN, but the perceived threats and challenge at the end kind of came and went and I was left thinking “was that it?”
Lots of reviews have readers clamouring to get to Vadim’s book but I couldn’t care less about him.
But the main letdown here, for me, was that the intensity of the writing didn’t match where the plot went. When the ending came I was underwhelmed. Don’t get me wrong, I loved how Maxim and Frankie got their HFN, but the perceived threats and challenge at the end kind of came and went and I was left thinking “was that it?”
Lots of reviews have readers clamouring to get to Vadim’s book but I couldn’t care less about him.
April 27, 2020
4.5 stars
Love it!
The couple evolution is amazing both has characters and in relation...
Love it!
The couple evolution is amazing both has characters and in relation...
April 13, 2020
What a way to bring Francesca's story full circle!
And Maxim - the man, the monster
Their story? Far exceeded my imagination
I wasn't sure what unholy nightmare gramps was going to rain down on Max after he disposed (?) of his uncle and set the wheels in motion to claim Francesa as his bride (book two).
I can say that none of the events that occurred where even in my realm of possibilities
Oh and the family members we get to meet in this episode
Holy crimson rivers!
I was on the edge from the moment I read the first page
This was like riding the log ride tilt a whirl ( I know it is two rides imagine them combined)
I thought I was prepared for the pain. The horror.
The inevitable bloodshed
I thought I had an inkling of what was coming -
I was wrong - Oh so very wrong
Everything quickly went sideways
Then suddenly the waters seemed calm again. Familiar.
I was able to breathe, relax.
Fool.
"What do you do after a man proposes marriage while towering over a dead, mutilated, body"
This picks up right where we left off
And if you can believe it Sky twisted the story even more.
I'm not giving recaps or spoilers
I do know if you enjoy darker mafia reads with a twisted happily ever after
This is one you won't want to pass up
This does end on a happy for now -
Be real you and I both know he is coming back
I am excited to see who's story is next
And Maxim - the man, the monster
Their story? Far exceeded my imagination
I wasn't sure what unholy nightmare gramps was going to rain down on Max after he disposed (?) of his uncle and set the wheels in motion to claim Francesa as his bride (book two).
I can say that none of the events that occurred where even in my realm of possibilities
Oh and the family members we get to meet in this episode
Holy crimson rivers!
I was on the edge from the moment I read the first page
This was like riding the log ride tilt a whirl ( I know it is two rides imagine them combined)
I thought I was prepared for the pain. The horror.
The inevitable bloodshed
I thought I had an inkling of what was coming -
I was wrong - Oh so very wrong
Everything quickly went sideways
Then suddenly the waters seemed calm again. Familiar.
I was able to breathe, relax.
Fool.
"What do you do after a man proposes marriage while towering over a dead, mutilated, body"
This picks up right where we left off
And if you can believe it Sky twisted the story even more.
I'm not giving recaps or spoilers
I do know if you enjoy darker mafia reads with a twisted happily ever after
This is one you won't want to pass up
This does end on a happy for now -
Be real you and I both know he is coming back
I am excited to see who's story is next
April 11, 2020
Lana Sky's written words draw the reader into the story with delicacy and prose. Maxim is an OTT possessive Alpha male, who takes what he wants, when he wants, as he has been raised. Poor Francesca is still struggling in his perimeters and trying to deal with who they both are and who they are becoming because of one another.
As much as I love the main H and h characters, I kind of fell in love with Dima and need more of his story.
I recommend this series!
As much as I love the main H and h characters, I kind of fell in love with Dima and need more of his story.
I recommend this series!
November 4, 2020
Lame.
These books were weird. The jumping around was too much some times. A lot of this book didn’t even make sense.
They’d be in the middle of something, then boom, the next line they were in a different room, different position, in a whole conversation. It bounces around so much sometimes that I almost stopped reading.
The ending was crap too. Zero closure with Maxim and Frankie’s story. The next three books are about his psycho brother.
I wish I wouldn’t have wasted my time with this series. My curiosity got the better of me, but I doubt I’ll read anything else by this author. Her writing style is more confusing than anything else I’ve ever read.
These books were weird. The jumping around was too much some times. A lot of this book didn’t even make sense.
They’d be in the middle of something, then boom, the next line they were in a different room, different position, in a whole conversation. It bounces around so much sometimes that I almost stopped reading.
The ending was crap too. Zero closure with Maxim and Frankie’s story. The next three books are about his psycho brother.
I wish I wouldn’t have wasted my time with this series. My curiosity got the better of me, but I doubt I’ll read anything else by this author. Her writing style is more confusing than anything else I’ve ever read.
April 17, 2022
I read the past three books but I won't be continuing to read the rest of the series because it didn't go anywhere. honestly their relationship was lost in the plot and they didn't progress. I was told that smut was good but honestly it wasn't doing anything for me
April 19, 2020
What an extraordinary end to a complicated emotional series. It was time for both Maxim and Frankie to make a stand for what they want and believe in. But are they on the same page? This is a part of the story that redefines family for both of them.
We get introduced to a new family member, who changes the game. You wonder what Dima wants: revenge? Money? Power? Or maybe it's something more nebulous. But it's Dima that's the catalyst for both Maxim and Frankie to make choices with real consequences. You might think they already did, but did they really? Getting involved with Maxim was simple for Frankie, and holding her close was easy for Maxim. They both had a symbiotic relationship together sado/masochism at its core. They used each other, but now it's time to deal with the reality that is chasing them. Do they have the strength?
"“But tell me something. A hunter comes across a wolf and learns to care for it. He feeds it. Nourishes it. And then he locks it in a small cage because it is a difficult thing to care for a wild creature. To understand the freedom it needs. To trust that it will always return to you. That hunter may admire its beauty, and its power, and its brutal strength. But how can he trust that such a creature won’t turn on him? And the wolf, it cares for the hunter as well, you see. But even such a creature can sense the fear in the other. So it tries to deny its nature and pretend it enjoys its life within captivity. But instinct can only be ignored for so long… Until one day, the wolf lashes out from behind its bars, mortally wounding the hunter. And they both die, each never truly knowing the other.” “What are you saying?” The picture he painted is in my head, replaying in a morbid loop. Death. Death. Death. “I’m saying that love is in trust,” he warns. “Not fear.""
That above quote was said to Frankie, but it applies to Maxim as well. They are both scared of each other...what they mean to each other, what they would do to keep each other, and the huge changes to their respective lives. Even sister Daisy asks about the relationship. Is this all going away at some point? Does the lavishness mean anything? Does she have to call him Daddy? Frankie and her family have never known stability, so why would they believe it suddenly dropped on them now? And is it healthy for little Ainsley to trust Maxim so much? Can Maxim handle the chaos of 6 children and hide the destructive urges he carries?
The emotion bleeds from every page as Maxim holds on to Frankie for dear life. She's become is lifeline...a support system that goes way beyond sex.
“"You want to know why I brought you? Because if I didn’t, I would have lost my $#@% mind, and I would have killed him. I would have lost control…” His voice breaks, followed by a laugh and then a sigh. “You say you don’t know me—but you do. You know when to ask me &@$% questions I wouldn’t tolerate from anyone else. You know how to use those #&@% eyes so that I can see myself reflected in them. You keep me here.” His tone deepens with unsaid meaning. Here. In the present, away from the horror of his past. "
Frankie is wary. Can Maxim be who she needs long term? Whether he's desperately trying to protect her family or trying ice cream for the first time ever, she is watching a man trying to change...FOR HER. Part of her just can't accept it.
"A tendril of lingering doubt creeps in, feeding off the memories of him in that room. The anger. The repressed emotions. Again I have to wonder if this little game of give and take is more than he can handle. Is normalcy beyond his limits?"
When decisions are finally made, we as The reader sighs in relief. These characters are so likeable, even with the rough stuff! You want them to move forward from their startlingly brutal childhoods that defined them too long.
"This is the life I’m willing to sign up for. The trade, I’m finally able to make—a harmony of violence and security. Death and life. Blood and the purity left behind once it’s all washed away."
"(Maxim says) “By hiding behind that name, I could lie to you and claim that it was all I knew.” The line of his jaw tightens as he captures my waist, dragging me against him. Near my ear, he confesses, “Even before I saw you in that dress… I knew what needed to be done. What I needed to sacrifice to keep you. I’ve done it.”"
I loved all the psychological warfare used, and no one does it better than Sky. Some of the emotions you will feel reading this are dread, ecstasy, sadness, happiness and anxiety. Because you live these characters as you read this book. I felt gutted after reading it in only the best ways. I was pleased to find the next book Sky is releasing is Dima's story. Because wow, he's made an impression!
We get introduced to a new family member, who changes the game. You wonder what Dima wants: revenge? Money? Power? Or maybe it's something more nebulous. But it's Dima that's the catalyst for both Maxim and Frankie to make choices with real consequences. You might think they already did, but did they really? Getting involved with Maxim was simple for Frankie, and holding her close was easy for Maxim. They both had a symbiotic relationship together sado/masochism at its core. They used each other, but now it's time to deal with the reality that is chasing them. Do they have the strength?
"“But tell me something. A hunter comes across a wolf and learns to care for it. He feeds it. Nourishes it. And then he locks it in a small cage because it is a difficult thing to care for a wild creature. To understand the freedom it needs. To trust that it will always return to you. That hunter may admire its beauty, and its power, and its brutal strength. But how can he trust that such a creature won’t turn on him? And the wolf, it cares for the hunter as well, you see. But even such a creature can sense the fear in the other. So it tries to deny its nature and pretend it enjoys its life within captivity. But instinct can only be ignored for so long… Until one day, the wolf lashes out from behind its bars, mortally wounding the hunter. And they both die, each never truly knowing the other.” “What are you saying?” The picture he painted is in my head, replaying in a morbid loop. Death. Death. Death. “I’m saying that love is in trust,” he warns. “Not fear.""
That above quote was said to Frankie, but it applies to Maxim as well. They are both scared of each other...what they mean to each other, what they would do to keep each other, and the huge changes to their respective lives. Even sister Daisy asks about the relationship. Is this all going away at some point? Does the lavishness mean anything? Does she have to call him Daddy? Frankie and her family have never known stability, so why would they believe it suddenly dropped on them now? And is it healthy for little Ainsley to trust Maxim so much? Can Maxim handle the chaos of 6 children and hide the destructive urges he carries?
The emotion bleeds from every page as Maxim holds on to Frankie for dear life. She's become is lifeline...a support system that goes way beyond sex.
“"You want to know why I brought you? Because if I didn’t, I would have lost my $#@% mind, and I would have killed him. I would have lost control…” His voice breaks, followed by a laugh and then a sigh. “You say you don’t know me—but you do. You know when to ask me &@$% questions I wouldn’t tolerate from anyone else. You know how to use those #&@% eyes so that I can see myself reflected in them. You keep me here.” His tone deepens with unsaid meaning. Here. In the present, away from the horror of his past. "
Frankie is wary. Can Maxim be who she needs long term? Whether he's desperately trying to protect her family or trying ice cream for the first time ever, she is watching a man trying to change...FOR HER. Part of her just can't accept it.
"A tendril of lingering doubt creeps in, feeding off the memories of him in that room. The anger. The repressed emotions. Again I have to wonder if this little game of give and take is more than he can handle. Is normalcy beyond his limits?"
When decisions are finally made, we as The reader sighs in relief. These characters are so likeable, even with the rough stuff! You want them to move forward from their startlingly brutal childhoods that defined them too long.
"This is the life I’m willing to sign up for. The trade, I’m finally able to make—a harmony of violence and security. Death and life. Blood and the purity left behind once it’s all washed away."
"(Maxim says) “By hiding behind that name, I could lie to you and claim that it was all I knew.” The line of his jaw tightens as he captures my waist, dragging me against him. Near my ear, he confesses, “Even before I saw you in that dress… I knew what needed to be done. What I needed to sacrifice to keep you. I’ve done it.”"
I loved all the psychological warfare used, and no one does it better than Sky. Some of the emotions you will feel reading this are dread, ecstasy, sadness, happiness and anxiety. Because you live these characters as you read this book. I felt gutted after reading it in only the best ways. I was pleased to find the next book Sky is releasing is Dima's story. Because wow, he's made an impression!
September 1, 2024
Spice: 2/5 darkness: 2/5
**Three Words to Describe Maxim:**
Raging, lethal, dominant.
**Three Words to Describe Francesca:**
Self-loathing, stubborn, free.
**Their Relationship:**
Chaos.
**Things I Hated:**
Daisy. Daisy. Oh, and did I mention Daisy?
---
*Surrender* delves deeper into Maxim's past, revealing the abuse he suffered at the hands of his family and the disturbing things he was forced to do to his brother. In a surprising twist, his brother later reveals that while Maxim did beat him, he would always find small gifts left for him—like candy or socks—after every beating. This added depth to Maxim's character, showing a more conflicted side to his seemingly brutal exterior.
The story begins on a promising note with Maxim proposing to Francesca, but naturally, everything spirals out of control. Francesca questions his motives for marriage, and when Maxim's grandfather puts a hit on her, both of them start to unravel. Francesca is constantly torn between returning to her dysfunctional family and trying to make a life with Maxim. They eventually end up on an island, where a bizarre deal is struck: Maxim controls their nights while she lives her "normal" life with her family during the day. This dynamic was perplexing, especially because Francesca's obsession with her "family" (who are really her siblings) didn't make sense—why would they need to take on Maxim’s last name when they aren’t her kids?
Midway through the book, things seem to settle down, and it felt like it could have been the ending. But there was still more to come.
I was initially unsure about seeing Maxim’s submissive side; he’s such a dominant character that it felt out of place. However, it became clear that he needed the stability of Francesca's family to heal from his past. And in a way, Francesca needs his pain to soothe her own.
There was a lot of back-and-forth tension between Maxim and Francesca—trust issues, compromises, and emotional baggage. While Maxim gave up a lot to let Francesca live her version of a "normal life," this felt odd given the circumstances. Those kids are her siblings, not her own, which made some of her objections to taking Maxim’s last name confusing. But perhaps Francesca’s siblings are what Maxim needed to finally step away from his violent past, especially concerning his brother Dimas, who turned out to be quite a fascinating character.
I had expected a more dramatic ending—like a kidnapping or a major twist—but instead, it was Maxim forcing his grandfather out of the country. Dimas, Maxim’s psychotic brother, adds a fresh dynamic; he’s less rigid than Maxim, and not as empathetic as Milton—just delusional. He wants to understand why Francesca is with Maxim and whether Maxim is capable of love. It’s a compelling thread that could lead to more interesting developments in future books.
Overall, *Surrender* is less violent and sexually charged than its predecessors, but it still holds its own with plenty of psychological twists. It wasn’t quite what I was expecting, but I am curious to read Dimas’s story next. He has an unpredictable, chaotic energy that could be thrilling to explore further.
**Quotes:**
1. "That motherfucker didn’t make me. I made him. I ended him. He didn’t fucking win. They won’t win." —Maxim
2. "I chose you over him. Over them. Don’t forget that. Don’t ever forget that. I chose you. I will fight for you." —Maxim
3. "Only God knows about the rest of your family. You care about the Koslov name, but do you really want Ainsley to share the name of people like that? As you can tell, we aren’t exactly the most perfect family to start with." —Francesca
4. “I lost my fucking mind a long time ago. As you did. As Dima did.” Milton says through clenched teeth, the unspoken history between them rotting the air.” -Milton
5. “I want to know why my brother spared me, and yet shuns me. Why he despises me enough to ignore my very existence for twenty years, and at the same time, never once, ever, attacks me directly. -Dima
**Three Words to Describe Maxim:**
Raging, lethal, dominant.
**Three Words to Describe Francesca:**
Self-loathing, stubborn, free.
**Their Relationship:**
Chaos.
**Things I Hated:**
Daisy. Daisy. Oh, and did I mention Daisy?
---
*Surrender* delves deeper into Maxim's past, revealing the abuse he suffered at the hands of his family and the disturbing things he was forced to do to his brother. In a surprising twist, his brother later reveals that while Maxim did beat him, he would always find small gifts left for him—like candy or socks—after every beating. This added depth to Maxim's character, showing a more conflicted side to his seemingly brutal exterior.
The story begins on a promising note with Maxim proposing to Francesca, but naturally, everything spirals out of control. Francesca questions his motives for marriage, and when Maxim's grandfather puts a hit on her, both of them start to unravel. Francesca is constantly torn between returning to her dysfunctional family and trying to make a life with Maxim. They eventually end up on an island, where a bizarre deal is struck: Maxim controls their nights while she lives her "normal" life with her family during the day. This dynamic was perplexing, especially because Francesca's obsession with her "family" (who are really her siblings) didn't make sense—why would they need to take on Maxim’s last name when they aren’t her kids?
Midway through the book, things seem to settle down, and it felt like it could have been the ending. But there was still more to come.
I was initially unsure about seeing Maxim’s submissive side; he’s such a dominant character that it felt out of place. However, it became clear that he needed the stability of Francesca's family to heal from his past. And in a way, Francesca needs his pain to soothe her own.
There was a lot of back-and-forth tension between Maxim and Francesca—trust issues, compromises, and emotional baggage. While Maxim gave up a lot to let Francesca live her version of a "normal life," this felt odd given the circumstances. Those kids are her siblings, not her own, which made some of her objections to taking Maxim’s last name confusing. But perhaps Francesca’s siblings are what Maxim needed to finally step away from his violent past, especially concerning his brother Dimas, who turned out to be quite a fascinating character.
I had expected a more dramatic ending—like a kidnapping or a major twist—but instead, it was Maxim forcing his grandfather out of the country. Dimas, Maxim’s psychotic brother, adds a fresh dynamic; he’s less rigid than Maxim, and not as empathetic as Milton—just delusional. He wants to understand why Francesca is with Maxim and whether Maxim is capable of love. It’s a compelling thread that could lead to more interesting developments in future books.
Overall, *Surrender* is less violent and sexually charged than its predecessors, but it still holds its own with plenty of psychological twists. It wasn’t quite what I was expecting, but I am curious to read Dimas’s story next. He has an unpredictable, chaotic energy that could be thrilling to explore further.
**Quotes:**
1. "That motherfucker didn’t make me. I made him. I ended him. He didn’t fucking win. They won’t win." —Maxim
2. "I chose you over him. Over them. Don’t forget that. Don’t ever forget that. I chose you. I will fight for you." —Maxim
3. "Only God knows about the rest of your family. You care about the Koslov name, but do you really want Ainsley to share the name of people like that? As you can tell, we aren’t exactly the most perfect family to start with." —Francesca
4. “I lost my fucking mind a long time ago. As you did. As Dima did.” Milton says through clenched teeth, the unspoken history between them rotting the air.” -Milton
5. “I want to know why my brother spared me, and yet shuns me. Why he despises me enough to ignore my very existence for twenty years, and at the same time, never once, ever, attacks me directly. -Dima
April 13, 2020
Well, this is the conclusion to Maxim & his Kotyonok's (Frankie) story.
And what a SUPERB conclusion I found it to be.
I traveled with them through 'Obey' & 'Submit' & I cannot emphasize enough how beautifully satisfying this final book in their story was for me.
And being Maxim's a major part of it, there is blood, death, threats, assassination attempts, rough & brutal carnal interactions between him & his Kotyonok GALORE. Things have ramped up, Maxim proposed to Frankie, his grandfather is squeezing his evil clutches around everyone, a threat from his past pops up & he is desperate to keep Frankie as well as keep her safe.
And Frankie, she is again waffling about her feelings for Maxim & her future like a madly wobbling Weebil. Overall I very much like & admire Frankie's tenacity, her love for her siblings, her sense of family responsibility despite the damage done to her by her mother & the parental role Frankie was cloaked with while only a child herself. BUT, since Frankie's is the only POV, a huge portion of this book is the thoughts & mental musings, insecurities & downright terrors (understandably) that swamp & overwhelm Frankie even as she craves Maxim, his dark hungers & his strength. But nothing Maxim has done or is doing answers the primary question she has: Does Maxim LOVE her? And then the important follow up questions: Is he capable of love? Will he ever accept her family?
Although I *personally* found Frankie's chaotic internal thought processes a tad too much, it wasn't anything that dampened my excitement about the characters or the plot & most of it added to the reader's empathetic sense of the panic, desperation & confusion Frankie was experiencing.
And GAH!!! The last 25% of so of this book just SUCKED me in ever deeper, the plot, for me, exploded & I was reading faster & faster to see what happened next. And the end? STELLAR, SUPERB, SATISFYING to the Nth degree!!!
A brutal romance that as the layers of the anti-H are peeled away, allows the readers to see the heartbreakingly damaged HERO that lies underneath, that despite his upbringing, his nearly feral personality that ensured his rise to the top & survival, managed to cage his rage & anger & leave a spark of humanity waiting for the right woman to fan the flames . . . .
Ms. Sky knows how to draw her readers in, twist them around & around, surprise & shock them, gut their emotions & warm their hearts in wonderfully original ways (you MUST read just what a vicious & physically brutal young Maxim does for a hated childhood opponent) that MELT, literally MELT the hardest heart.
READ this book: You & your heart will be happy you did.
And what a SUPERB conclusion I found it to be.
I traveled with them through 'Obey' & 'Submit' & I cannot emphasize enough how beautifully satisfying this final book in their story was for me.
And being Maxim's a major part of it, there is blood, death, threats, assassination attempts, rough & brutal carnal interactions between him & his Kotyonok GALORE. Things have ramped up, Maxim proposed to Frankie, his grandfather is squeezing his evil clutches around everyone, a threat from his past pops up & he is desperate to keep Frankie as well as keep her safe.
And Frankie, she is again waffling about her feelings for Maxim & her future like a madly wobbling Weebil. Overall I very much like & admire Frankie's tenacity, her love for her siblings, her sense of family responsibility despite the damage done to her by her mother & the parental role Frankie was cloaked with while only a child herself. BUT, since Frankie's is the only POV, a huge portion of this book is the thoughts & mental musings, insecurities & downright terrors (understandably) that swamp & overwhelm Frankie even as she craves Maxim, his dark hungers & his strength. But nothing Maxim has done or is doing answers the primary question she has: Does Maxim LOVE her? And then the important follow up questions: Is he capable of love? Will he ever accept her family?
Although I *personally* found Frankie's chaotic internal thought processes a tad too much, it wasn't anything that dampened my excitement about the characters or the plot & most of it added to the reader's empathetic sense of the panic, desperation & confusion Frankie was experiencing.
And GAH!!! The last 25% of so of this book just SUCKED me in ever deeper, the plot, for me, exploded & I was reading faster & faster to see what happened next. And the end? STELLAR, SUPERB, SATISFYING to the Nth degree!!!
A brutal romance that as the layers of the anti-H are peeled away, allows the readers to see the heartbreakingly damaged HERO that lies underneath, that despite his upbringing, his nearly feral personality that ensured his rise to the top & survival, managed to cage his rage & anger & leave a spark of humanity waiting for the right woman to fan the flames . . . .
Ms. Sky knows how to draw her readers in, twist them around & around, surprise & shock them, gut their emotions & warm their hearts in wonderfully original ways (you MUST read just what a vicious & physically brutal young Maxim does for a hated childhood opponent) that MELT, literally MELT the hardest heart.
READ this book: You & your heart will be happy you did.
April 5, 2020
Surrender: XXX Maxim Book 3 (Club XXX) by Lana Sky
Francesca (Frankie) Marconi is has been taking care of her six siblings all by herself for a long time. She once worked three different jobs so she could support them but now she has someone that could give her more choices.
Maxim Koslov is a Russian crime lord with a dark and twisted sexual appetite who happens to own a sex club called XXX where nothing is off limits. He runs the western section of the city for his grandfather, but things have changed along with loyalties.
Surrender picks up where Obey left off. Maxim has started to take action against those that would rather see him on a slab. Family dynamics and loyalties are changing so Maxim must choose his family or Frankie? Without his family, does Maxim even have a future to give? Frankie has finally taken the hand that could change her future and the future of her siblings, but it comes with a cost that even she can’t imagine. She might already have blood on her hands but how much is she willing to spill to get what she wants? Will she choose Maxim or the safety of her family? Can Maxim give her both, but it could cost him even more than he could be willing to pay. Blood doesn’t always make you family, sometimes you have to form one of your own.
This final book in the series Club XXX was perfect in every way. From the beginning Maxim was so hard and gruff but it’s because of his past. A past that could have sent any other man to his knees or an early grave. He chose to survive it and use it to his advantage. What most men would call hard was his strength. Frankie was pushed down most of her life and to become mother to six kids. She never gave up because she had more than herself to raise and no one else could fill those shoes. When these two people meet neither thinks well of the other. Once they both start to trust the other bonds begin to form and they find they are stronger together. This book shows the give and take between these two and what each is willing to give in order to survive together. Each heroine Lana writes comes across broken at first, but she isn’t, really. She is so much stronger than they think. Stronger than her hero in a way. The hero needs them as much if not more to show them the way. It's almost as if she tells them, "I've got this." Together they unstoppable.
Francesca (Frankie) Marconi is has been taking care of her six siblings all by herself for a long time. She once worked three different jobs so she could support them but now she has someone that could give her more choices.
Maxim Koslov is a Russian crime lord with a dark and twisted sexual appetite who happens to own a sex club called XXX where nothing is off limits. He runs the western section of the city for his grandfather, but things have changed along with loyalties.
Surrender picks up where Obey left off. Maxim has started to take action against those that would rather see him on a slab. Family dynamics and loyalties are changing so Maxim must choose his family or Frankie? Without his family, does Maxim even have a future to give? Frankie has finally taken the hand that could change her future and the future of her siblings, but it comes with a cost that even she can’t imagine. She might already have blood on her hands but how much is she willing to spill to get what she wants? Will she choose Maxim or the safety of her family? Can Maxim give her both, but it could cost him even more than he could be willing to pay. Blood doesn’t always make you family, sometimes you have to form one of your own.
This final book in the series Club XXX was perfect in every way. From the beginning Maxim was so hard and gruff but it’s because of his past. A past that could have sent any other man to his knees or an early grave. He chose to survive it and use it to his advantage. What most men would call hard was his strength. Frankie was pushed down most of her life and to become mother to six kids. She never gave up because she had more than herself to raise and no one else could fill those shoes. When these two people meet neither thinks well of the other. Once they both start to trust the other bonds begin to form and they find they are stronger together. This book shows the give and take between these two and what each is willing to give in order to survive together. Each heroine Lana writes comes across broken at first, but she isn’t, really. She is so much stronger than they think. Stronger than her hero in a way. The hero needs them as much if not more to show them the way. It's almost as if she tells them, "I've got this." Together they unstoppable.
April 9, 2020
WOW, I was going to read this book over several days but dang it was too good to put down; much like all of Lana Sky’s books!
You must read Obey and Submit first to really appreciate and understand these characters and what they have been through to get to this place in their relationship.
I so love Maxim and Francesca’s journey so far and they are fast becoming two of my favorite characters!
Maxim and Francesca both have had such a traumatic past and are desperately trying to fit into each other’s world and hopefully find a balance. Maxim’s world is filled with sex (BDSM), death, control and violence. Francesca’s is filled with distrust of men and the responsibility of keeping her siblings safe from the threats of Maxim’s world. Will she stay with Maxim or will she choose the safety of her family first? Or can they find love when neither of them know what it is?
After reading one of the chapters about something Maxim did in his younger years made my heart melt and brought tears to my eyes. I so did not expect it. It made me realize that there’s so much more to Maxim than meets the eyes.
Also in this book we see two new characters come to life and I can’t wait to find out where their journey will take them and how they will intertwine with Maxim and Francesca’s continued story. I know whatever Lana has conjured up in her mind it will be brilliant.
Well I guess I will have to patiently wait for my next fix! Keep up the fantastic writing Lana!
You must read Obey and Submit first to really appreciate and understand these characters and what they have been through to get to this place in their relationship.
I so love Maxim and Francesca’s journey so far and they are fast becoming two of my favorite characters!
Maxim and Francesca both have had such a traumatic past and are desperately trying to fit into each other’s world and hopefully find a balance. Maxim’s world is filled with sex (BDSM), death, control and violence. Francesca’s is filled with distrust of men and the responsibility of keeping her siblings safe from the threats of Maxim’s world. Will she stay with Maxim or will she choose the safety of her family first? Or can they find love when neither of them know what it is?
After reading one of the chapters about something Maxim did in his younger years made my heart melt and brought tears to my eyes. I so did not expect it. It made me realize that there’s so much more to Maxim than meets the eyes.
Also in this book we see two new characters come to life and I can’t wait to find out where their journey will take them and how they will intertwine with Maxim and Francesca’s continued story. I know whatever Lana has conjured up in her mind it will be brilliant.
Well I guess I will have to patiently wait for my next fix! Keep up the fantastic writing Lana!
April 13, 2020
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of "SURRENDER" (XXX MAXIM) This is such a terrific ending to Frankie and Maxim's journey to find their HEA if thats even possible with all the threats and chaos tossed in their direction.
Frankie has had a rough life raising 6 siblings on her own she's stronger than anyone thinks when she meets Maxim the first time they didn't really click but as time went on they began to trust one another he did so much to help her with her family.
Maxim wants to marry Frankie but there's a bounty put out on her by his grandfather and Anatoli which has them scrambling to save her and the family will Maxim take her over the family and make her his new family will Dima his mutt brother he calls him help Maxim.
I love how Maxim is changing for Frankie to overcome his traumatic past and I really like Vadim-Dima his character is terrific this is absolutely a must have series you don't want to miss Lana Sky truly does an excellent job writing this dark twisted romance with addicting engaging captivating characters.
I definitely recommend this series it won't disappoint I Soooo can't wait for "Vadim-Dima's" story next it should be a phenominal series as well.
Frankie has had a rough life raising 6 siblings on her own she's stronger than anyone thinks when she meets Maxim the first time they didn't really click but as time went on they began to trust one another he did so much to help her with her family.
Maxim wants to marry Frankie but there's a bounty put out on her by his grandfather and Anatoli which has them scrambling to save her and the family will Maxim take her over the family and make her his new family will Dima his mutt brother he calls him help Maxim.
I love how Maxim is changing for Frankie to overcome his traumatic past and I really like Vadim-Dima his character is terrific this is absolutely a must have series you don't want to miss Lana Sky truly does an excellent job writing this dark twisted romance with addicting engaging captivating characters.
I definitely recommend this series it won't disappoint I Soooo can't wait for "Vadim-Dima's" story next it should be a phenominal series as well.
April 14, 2020
Holy beautiful darkness, Batman!!
She's done it again. Ms. Sky has broken my mind with the conclusion to Maxim and Frankie's dirty and gritty, beautiful and bloody, dangerous and seductive story. I tell you the monster of a mobster will have you teetering between loving and hating him more than half way through the story (. . . And I love it). It's beautiful torture, the twisted nightmare these two go through to find the end of their story - assassins, blood, bondage, a ring, and family.
By only having Frankie's POV, the reader is subjected to all her insecurities and self-doubts, we are also let in on her loyalties, weaknesses, and truths. It's a fine line between disconnecting because the character comes across as whinny and annoying or staying immersed in the story because the character is unsure and overwhelmed. Somehow, Ms. Sky finds that balance in her characters. She always finds a way of making the weak character show strength when strong character is weak.
This story will have you to the very end and after
** I am voluntarily leaving this review after receiving an ARC copy. **
She's done it again. Ms. Sky has broken my mind with the conclusion to Maxim and Frankie's dirty and gritty, beautiful and bloody, dangerous and seductive story. I tell you the monster of a mobster will have you teetering between loving and hating him more than half way through the story (. . . And I love it). It's beautiful torture, the twisted nightmare these two go through to find the end of their story - assassins, blood, bondage, a ring, and family.
By only having Frankie's POV, the reader is subjected to all her insecurities and self-doubts, we are also let in on her loyalties, weaknesses, and truths. It's a fine line between disconnecting because the character comes across as whinny and annoying or staying immersed in the story because the character is unsure and overwhelmed. Somehow, Ms. Sky finds that balance in her characters. She always finds a way of making the weak character show strength when strong character is weak.
This story will have you to the very end and after
** I am voluntarily leaving this review after receiving an ARC copy. **
May 16, 2020
I have to say this might be the best work Sky has done. Frankie and Maxim really .... I love them in their final book. The growth these characters have is astronomical. I’m so happy I was along for the journey these two provided. Frankie and Maxim are completed different but the same and I’m here for it.
This book (series) does continue to contain dark elements such as descriptions of killing, mentions of abuse, and dark sex BDSM but in no way shape or form do these elements take away from the story at all. If this isn’t something you usually go for. I beg of you to take a chance in this world that Lana creates. As messy and dark as it is. It’s beautiful and will leave you captivated and breathless. Wanting more and more from her and the books.
There’s new faces introduced in this book and world with more in-depth inside looks of the characters already introduced. It was a nice surprise that I didn’t know I really wanted or needed till presented.
This final conclusion of the Club XXX series will have you crying, laughing, and sighing in contentment. Definitely worth the wait, time, and money.
This book (series) does continue to contain dark elements such as descriptions of killing, mentions of abuse, and dark sex BDSM but in no way shape or form do these elements take away from the story at all. If this isn’t something you usually go for. I beg of you to take a chance in this world that Lana creates. As messy and dark as it is. It’s beautiful and will leave you captivated and breathless. Wanting more and more from her and the books.
There’s new faces introduced in this book and world with more in-depth inside looks of the characters already introduced. It was a nice surprise that I didn’t know I really wanted or needed till presented.
This final conclusion of the Club XXX series will have you crying, laughing, and sighing in contentment. Definitely worth the wait, time, and money.
February 8, 2022
[Received an ARC]
Rating 5/5
Plot 5/5
Spice 4/5
Character Development 5/5
“Surrender: XXX Maxim” is the third book in Club XXX’s series about Francesca and Maxim. This story continues their game for one last time as Francesca must decide if her family’s safety can lie in the hands of Maxim. Maxim’s world continues to become dangerous, twisted, and dark due to his past trauma and the empire. This leaves Francesca questioning if she can surrender to the dangerous desire of being with a sinful man or if this life will drive them apart.
I love Francesca and Maxim’s story so much. They have grown a tremendous amount throughout the series and I love how we end off in this third book. Maxim is the coldest softie and I love him for it. Although he’s dominating and fierce, he’s extremely sweet and gentle which I absolutely love. Francesca’s growth in this book was amazing as well. I can see the confidence within her and I’m content seeing her find happiness and safety within Maxim. We're introduced to Maxim's brother in this one and I cannot wait to read the rest of the series and learn more about him.
Rating 5/5
Plot 5/5
Spice 4/5
Character Development 5/5
“Surrender: XXX Maxim” is the third book in Club XXX’s series about Francesca and Maxim. This story continues their game for one last time as Francesca must decide if her family’s safety can lie in the hands of Maxim. Maxim’s world continues to become dangerous, twisted, and dark due to his past trauma and the empire. This leaves Francesca questioning if she can surrender to the dangerous desire of being with a sinful man or if this life will drive them apart.
I love Francesca and Maxim’s story so much. They have grown a tremendous amount throughout the series and I love how we end off in this third book. Maxim is the coldest softie and I love him for it. Although he’s dominating and fierce, he’s extremely sweet and gentle which I absolutely love. Francesca’s growth in this book was amazing as well. I can see the confidence within her and I’m content seeing her find happiness and safety within Maxim. We're introduced to Maxim's brother in this one and I cannot wait to read the rest of the series and learn more about him.
April 14, 2020
Oh my black heart needed this book. It coudn't have came at a better time! If you haven't read Submit and Obey (books 1&2) it makes a lot of sense to read the books in order. You definitely don't wan't to miss out on Frankie and Maxim's crazy world of Darkness. Frankie has come into her own by the end of this series. We watched her grow and become who she is , I love her character. We learned so much about Maxim in this story and I loved seeing how Frankie made Maxim become more human. He is pretty ruthless FYI. Also two new characters were given life and I am dying to know more about them and how they intertwine with Maxim and Frankie in the future so hopefully this isn't the complete end of Frankie and Maxim.
But once Maxim and Frankie finally have learned to trust one another. They discover that they are Stonger together and are ment for one another.
Lana Sky has created a brilliant ending to a phenomenal story that leaves the doors open for new stories to emerge. I love her brillian mind so much. I will anxiously be awaiting the next release by Lana!
But once Maxim and Frankie finally have learned to trust one another. They discover that they are Stonger together and are ment for one another.
Lana Sky has created a brilliant ending to a phenomenal story that leaves the doors open for new stories to emerge. I love her brillian mind so much. I will anxiously be awaiting the next release by Lana!
May 14, 2020
What an epic conclusion of one of the best series I've read. I preordered this the second it came up, and yet, I waited weeks to read it. It felt like I had been waiting eagerly for Maxim and Francesca's 3rd book, but I could not bring myself to let it end. And that's the very first time I've ever done that with any released book. I was sure I was going to speed through as soon as it officially released, but I couldn't help but want to hold off so I could have that in my back pocket whenever I wanted it.
I won't go too much into the story, but it continues with both the internal and external factors of M & F's relationship. While they're navigating who they are as individuals and relative to the other, they're also navigating the familial ties and the world that didn't stop for them. The door is opened for more books in this universe (and it's been confirmed!!) Lana Sky books are outstanding dark romances, and it's a bittersweet ending for me as a reader to finish a trilogy that gripped my heart for so long, but I know the next one she'll bring out will be amazing once again.
I won't go too much into the story, but it continues with both the internal and external factors of M & F's relationship. While they're navigating who they are as individuals and relative to the other, they're also navigating the familial ties and the world that didn't stop for them. The door is opened for more books in this universe (and it's been confirmed!!) Lana Sky books are outstanding dark romances, and it's a bittersweet ending for me as a reader to finish a trilogy that gripped my heart for so long, but I know the next one she'll bring out will be amazing once again.
December 6, 2022
The final instalment to Francesca and Maxim's story, and possibly my favourite of them. In this book, you can truly see the changes, Maxim underwent for the sake of Francesca, her siblings, and himself. I would honestly love to read more about Frankie and Maxim, I feel like there's still so much to tell for their tale but back to talking about this book, I love the moments of domesticity especially interactions between Maxim and little Ainsley, I can just imagine him having a daughter with Francesca one day and he would spoil the crap out of the little girl just because he can 😆.
Cute moments of playing wholesome family aside, this book isn't without its dark moments which is on brand with Lana Sky, but I can see the focus has shifted more to changes within Maxim and Frankie and how they're both fighting for a future for themselves as a couple and as a family. Frankie is a lot more open with what she wants here than she was in the previous two books and I liked the palpable progression of her relationship with Maxim although it is not without its torments.
All in all, this is a 5 star 🌟 read for me.
Cute moments of playing wholesome family aside, this book isn't without its dark moments which is on brand with Lana Sky, but I can see the focus has shifted more to changes within Maxim and Frankie and how they're both fighting for a future for themselves as a couple and as a family. Frankie is a lot more open with what she wants here than she was in the previous two books and I liked the palpable progression of her relationship with Maxim although it is not without its torments.
All in all, this is a 5 star 🌟 read for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 18, 2024
5 stars.
This was *incredible*! I can’t believe the trilogy is finally over, I’m not ready to move on. It feels like there’s a hole in my heart. Maxim and Francesca’s turbulent, toxic journey together was just addicting. Their chemistry was intoxicating from start to finish, keeping me hooked throughout the series.
This has to be my favorite book from the trilogy. You can finally see them understanding and accept each other. I can’t believe these were the same characters from book 1, especially maxim. Is this really the same cold, distant man we met in Book 1? The things he did for her, the sacrifices he made for her even with all his darkness. Francesca was his perfect match in every way. She’s easily one of my favorite female leads of all time. Her resilience truly awes me.
This trilogy is unforgettable. I ate this up this up despite having many elements I typically don’t enjoy at all. The character development, the intense chemistry, the writing and everything was top-tier. This series exceeded my expectations. Can’t wait to read more books by Lana sky.
This was *incredible*! I can’t believe the trilogy is finally over, I’m not ready to move on. It feels like there’s a hole in my heart. Maxim and Francesca’s turbulent, toxic journey together was just addicting. Their chemistry was intoxicating from start to finish, keeping me hooked throughout the series.
This has to be my favorite book from the trilogy. You can finally see them understanding and accept each other. I can’t believe these were the same characters from book 1, especially maxim. Is this really the same cold, distant man we met in Book 1? The things he did for her, the sacrifices he made for her even with all his darkness. Francesca was his perfect match in every way. She’s easily one of my favorite female leads of all time. Her resilience truly awes me.
This trilogy is unforgettable. I ate this up this up despite having many elements I typically don’t enjoy at all. The character development, the intense chemistry, the writing and everything was top-tier. This series exceeded my expectations. Can’t wait to read more books by Lana sky.
April 13, 2020
INCREDIBLE DARK & GRITTY OBSESSION!
Oh my ever lovin F-Bombs. This is one helll of a continuation to this phenomenal series that was worth the wait. It had me hooked and riding the edge holding my breath and gasping in shock and riddled with nervous anxiety overcome with fear and pulled at my emotions as the story gets down and dirty deep into Maxim and Dima's brutal past that pulls at my heartstrings and cringing in disgust. I loved it and had a really hard time putting it down. The writing is impeccable vivid and flows at a nice steady pace with mind blowing twists that are dark, gritty, fierce, explosive, demanding intense edgy, shocking and an array of heart pounding chaotic emotions. The chemistry is dark intense and hot. I lost my nails and dropped an awful lot of F-Bombs but I can guarantee that the explosive cliffhanger had me digging deep and screaming a whole lot louder like an obsessed crazy woman because that is exactly what this incredible series turns me into.
Oh my ever lovin F-Bombs. This is one helll of a continuation to this phenomenal series that was worth the wait. It had me hooked and riding the edge holding my breath and gasping in shock and riddled with nervous anxiety overcome with fear and pulled at my emotions as the story gets down and dirty deep into Maxim and Dima's brutal past that pulls at my heartstrings and cringing in disgust. I loved it and had a really hard time putting it down. The writing is impeccable vivid and flows at a nice steady pace with mind blowing twists that are dark, gritty, fierce, explosive, demanding intense edgy, shocking and an array of heart pounding chaotic emotions. The chemistry is dark intense and hot. I lost my nails and dropped an awful lot of F-Bombs but I can guarantee that the explosive cliffhanger had me digging deep and screaming a whole lot louder like an obsessed crazy woman because that is exactly what this incredible series turns me into.
April 13, 2020
Let me just say this whole series was phenomenal. I recommend reading all three books. The story line, the characters, the flow made this series one of my top 3. These books made me want to read every single word written in it. I found myself grabbing the book for dear life and holding my breath in the next. Mafia greatness. Francesca aka Kotyonok was so strong, smart and loving. I love the way she was written. I felt all of her pain and happiness. And my bad boy Maxim aka Wolf . He was mean, evil, smart, and misunderstood. You hated him one minute and loved him down to your soul the next. This story was so well written I am hoping that another book is in the works of Milton and Dima. I just don't want it to end. But in the meantime I am going to re-read the series again because all of the books were just that good. I recommend that you read them all you will not be disappointed trust me.
Happy Reading!!!
Happy Reading!!!
November 8, 2022
In the final book in Maxim’s and Frankie’s trilogy, Lana spent most of the time bringing to the surface Maxim’s humanity. It was incredible to see this other side of his. However, in order to do so, she brought to front and center Frankie’s little siblings and dark/mafia romance don’t match with kids in my brain. While they were kept aside I could manage alright, but when they were involved… that’s why my rating lowered a little.
Another thing that bothered me, the books are told in the FMC’s POV only, so, for most important scenes she had to be present, but it was as if she weren’t. She just kept silent and trembling the whole time and it was extremely frustrating when the men were talking about her future as if she weren’t there, and for the way she acted, it seemed she wasn’t.
All that being said, I liked the conclusion of the story and that they could finally be together after so much suffering and struggles.
Another thing that bothered me, the books are told in the FMC’s POV only, so, for most important scenes she had to be present, but it was as if she weren’t. She just kept silent and trembling the whole time and it was extremely frustrating when the men were talking about her future as if she weren’t there, and for the way she acted, it seemed she wasn’t.
All that being said, I liked the conclusion of the story and that they could finally be together after so much suffering and struggles.
April 10, 2020
I have no words. Well, actually I do:
This was an incredible end to a series, to say the least. Absolutely unputdownable.
I feel like this book expands so much more on both Frankie's and Maxim's characters than the previous two books in the series. Especially with Maxim's past, he is definitely made more human, less of stone. And I felt like there was some really great character development in this book, and the overall tone of this book feels different, or at least it changes. It's more hopeful. A little vanilla, in contrast to the whole whips and chains and blood shabang they have going on.
The most important thing: it made my heart happy. So happy. Planning to do a reread of everything sometime in the near future.
Last note: the introduction of some new characters (no spoilers) definitely has me intrigued.
This was an incredible end to a series, to say the least. Absolutely unputdownable.
I feel like this book expands so much more on both Frankie's and Maxim's characters than the previous two books in the series. Especially with Maxim's past, he is definitely made more human, less of stone. And I felt like there was some really great character development in this book, and the overall tone of this book feels different, or at least it changes. It's more hopeful. A little vanilla, in contrast to the whole whips and chains and blood shabang they have going on.
The most important thing: it made my heart happy. So happy. Planning to do a reread of everything sometime in the near future.
Last note: the introduction of some new characters (no spoilers) definitely has me intrigued.
April 10, 2020
This is the third and final book in Maxim and Frankie's story. You must read all these books and in order to get the most out of them. I am sorry to say goodbye to this couple but I am totally satisfied with how everything wrapped up. I thought that there was a special kind of beauty to this couple's romance. Having both characters be incredibly strong and fierce but also wounded and burdened by baggage created a powerful and compelling dynamic that was incredibly easy to become invested in. Watching as these two learned to trust and rely on each other and simply daring to take a chance on love was incredibly moving. A wonderful and series that I highly recommend wholeheartedly to any reader that enjoys intensity, drama, emotion, heat, danger and darkness. Of my own accord I am posting a sincere review.
June 23, 2023
Final Book
So the trilogy of Francesca and Maxim has concluded...for now. Dima gets his own books next in the final 3 books and let me tell you, he is an intriguing figure. One that I might enjoy more than this duo.
The nice thing about this series, it has picked up right where it left off. However, I am not usually a fan when characters change because of love. I like it more when love helps embrace themselves. However, with two lost characters this seemed to have still fit. I did struggle to like Francesca and maybe this is why I didn't read them as fast. It was hard for me to dice into book 2 and book 3. However, I wanted to complete their journey. If you pushed yourself through book 2, book 3 is better...but different. Meaning, why would the characters go for normalcy when they were born to stand out and be more.
So the trilogy of Francesca and Maxim has concluded...for now. Dima gets his own books next in the final 3 books and let me tell you, he is an intriguing figure. One that I might enjoy more than this duo.
The nice thing about this series, it has picked up right where it left off. However, I am not usually a fan when characters change because of love. I like it more when love helps embrace themselves. However, with two lost characters this seemed to have still fit. I did struggle to like Francesca and maybe this is why I didn't read them as fast. It was hard for me to dice into book 2 and book 3. However, I wanted to complete their journey. If you pushed yourself through book 2, book 3 is better...but different. Meaning, why would the characters go for normalcy when they were born to stand out and be more.
April 12, 2020
Surrender is the third and final installment of Club XXX: MAXIM series.
Now I have read and enjoyed the first 2 parts of this series so I was very excited to finally get my hands on the final part of it and to find out what happens next with both Maxim and Frankie.
As per usual Lana’s writing continues to amaze, she manages to create such a dark atmosphere filled with mystery and suspense which it just keeps you on the edge of your seat.
overall, i think that this was such a great ending to this series, I absolutely loved it and I loved the character development that got here, and all the plots and twists along the way, I also enjoyed the new characters that were introduced here.
I highly recommend this series for anyone who enjoys this genre of dark romance.
Now I have read and enjoyed the first 2 parts of this series so I was very excited to finally get my hands on the final part of it and to find out what happens next with both Maxim and Frankie.
As per usual Lana’s writing continues to amaze, she manages to create such a dark atmosphere filled with mystery and suspense which it just keeps you on the edge of your seat.
overall, i think that this was such a great ending to this series, I absolutely loved it and I loved the character development that got here, and all the plots and twists along the way, I also enjoyed the new characters that were introduced here.
I highly recommend this series for anyone who enjoys this genre of dark romance.
April 15, 2020
Surrender is the conclusion to the club XXX trilogy featuring maxim and Frankie. You need to read the first 2 books before delving into surrender.
I really enjoyed the conclusion to this couple. Maxim is still his sexy alpha self, although we did see a much softer side to him this time around, especially with Frankie’s family.
Our girl Frankie gets some much needed back bone, and stands up to maxim quite a bit in this book - almost a little bit too much maybe? Or maybe it was just accepted a bit too easily by maxim?
anyway, there’s still the usual twists and turns, a lot of the heat that we’ve come to expect from these 2...#yum!!
If you enjoyed the first 2 books then you’ll definitely enjoy this one.
I really enjoyed the conclusion to this couple. Maxim is still his sexy alpha self, although we did see a much softer side to him this time around, especially with Frankie’s family.
Our girl Frankie gets some much needed back bone, and stands up to maxim quite a bit in this book - almost a little bit too much maybe? Or maybe it was just accepted a bit too easily by maxim?
anyway, there’s still the usual twists and turns, a lot of the heat that we’ve come to expect from these 2...#yum!!
If you enjoyed the first 2 books then you’ll definitely enjoy this one.
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