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Bratva Masters #1
The Russian
A dark mafia romance
255 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 2, 2020
823 people are currently reading
318 people want to read
About the author
Isabella Laase
13 books104 followersWelcome to the world of Isabella Laase, USA Today and #1 Bestselling author across several genres and International best seller on four continents!
Cursed by a sarcastic sense of humor, Isabella works to blend her history loving, feminist side with the fantasy world of hot romance defined by the firm hand of a strong alpha male. Given choice within the confines of history and genre, strong women find balance in their lives while fulfilling their deepest sexual desires.
Isabella lives in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania with her very patient husband. Two tiny dogs complete the family and have learned to sleep under a laptop to gain any comfort from her side while she balances a job, political activism, and steamy spanking novels in the course of a single day.
"Writing is like playing in a virtual reality dollhouse. You can create any character you want within any world, time period, lifestyle, and personality plus have them wear any clothes you can fantasize. You are only limited by your personal imagination."
Cursed by a sarcastic sense of humor, Isabella works to blend her history loving, feminist side with the fantasy world of hot romance defined by the firm hand of a strong alpha male. Given choice within the confines of history and genre, strong women find balance in their lives while fulfilling their deepest sexual desires.
Isabella lives in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania with her very patient husband. Two tiny dogs complete the family and have learned to sleep under a laptop to gain any comfort from her side while she balances a job, political activism, and steamy spanking novels in the course of a single day.
"Writing is like playing in a virtual reality dollhouse. You can create any character you want within any world, time period, lifestyle, and personality plus have them wear any clothes you can fantasize. You are only limited by your personal imagination."
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
July 20, 2024
Dr. Mia Anderson and Russian mafioso Luka Petruskenkov meet when he kidnaps her to treat his injured cousin. The rest of the book details their growing kink relationship that soon deepens -- despite their protestations -- into something more as they navigate their class and cultural differences, as well as the sub-plots surrounding the long-hidden (and melodramatic) Petruskenkov family secrets.
My primary emotional reaction to this book is sadness. I never felt that the strong and independent Mia, who overcame an impoverished childhood by putting herself through medical school, found fulfillment in the kind of TPE relationship Luka demanded. While she certainly found sexual pleasure -- and he certainly showered her with expensive gifts -- she spent much of the story yearning for his warmth, attention, and affection. In addition, he set such a high bar for her obedience that few could achieve -- let alone a newbie sub -- that she frequently failed and, thus, felt like, well, a failure. Given that this was counter-productive to her generally low self-esteem and given that she spent much of this book afraid, uncomfortable, or in tears, I couldn't root for their HEA. There is one scene in particular that I found very hard to read: not in a good, emotionally cathartic way, but in a "how could a man who claims to care for a woman do this?" since it breaks her. Ultimately, I never felt that her submission empowered or freed her; rather, I felt that it sucked up all her energy: the one time that she did stand up for herself was when .
While I understand that Ms. Laase was using some of the above plot points to depict Luka's growth, I never liked him (really, he gets points for not acting on his impulse to hit a woman? talk about damning with faint praise). Their M/s relationship was, for the majority of this book, one filled with more red flags than a Chinese New Year's parade. Luka really isn't a good or responsible dominant: he leaves Mia alone after a scene or punishment; he leaves her alone when she's tied up with no ability to escape should, say, the building catch on fire; he frequently loses his temper; and he engages in emotional blackmail by invoking the very problematic concept of the "true submissive" to compel her obedience and telling her he will end the relationship if she doesn't obey him. While it's true that Luka does ultimately . My main point here is that if a man can't be trusted to be a responsible dominant, how are we supposed to buy that Mia wants to pursue a relationship with him?
I had three other problems with this book. First, Mia -- and by extension, the author -- rationalizes Luka's criminal acts by comparing his to hers But there's little (no) moral equivalence between children stealing food to eat and a criminal empire acquiring diamonds and chartering private jets -- not to mention that Mia's "crimes" didn't kill anyone and the Russian mafia's have. I'd have more respect for authors who dabble in "dark" if they didn't try to justify it. Second, this contains Ms. Laase's usual tropes that are not to all tastes: a newbie sub's ability to go from 0 to 180 in the space of a day ('cause Luka magically knows the "little doctor" is submissive), sharing, and public sex/punishments. And, third, it evokes two tropes common to this genre that are my pet peeves: 1) The H blames the h for reasonably objecting to being kidnapped at gunpoint, and 2) The assumption that no one would call the police if they see a man mauling a woman in public.
However, as usual with this author, it was well-written in terms of descriptive prose, correct grammar, and competent editing; the characters had complex backstories and motivations; the conflicts between the MC were organic (lifestyle and values differences) rather than artificially imposed; I appreciated that this h was an accomplished professional and not barely post-pubescent as too many are in these books; and I really appreciated that the author didn't demonize Mia's working-class single mother -- as so many in this genre are wont do. Finally, I did like that within the limitations of the TPE lifestyle, Luka allowed Mia to maintain control over some aspects of her life, such as her career. YMMV; if you think you'll like this book, please read the many 4- and 5-star reviews it's likely to get.
3 stars. That scene with the four of them was too akin to gang rape for my comfort and she forgave him far too easily for it. In fact, it was unbelievable that she ever trusted him again. Given the other unattached men in this book, I suspect that this is the beginning of a series.
Finally, I know this is a losing battle, but this isn't BDSM. BDSM is a real lifestyle that exists in the real world and is practiced by real people. It comes in many forms but it rests on consent, limits, and safewords. Since these were not present here, this is not BDSM. Read about such practices if you want to, write about them if you want to, but don't call it something it's not. You're only impugning a lifestyle you don't understand.
ETA: Regarding the tag, "A Dark Mafia Romance," I'd like to say two things. First, "dark" is now so ubiquitous (and "A Dark Mafia Romance" even more so as SNP has used it at least five times in the last month alone) that I see it as more a marketing ploy than a true content label. In truth, while a lot of this was out of my comfort zone and "dark" in general is hard to quantify explicitly, I suspect that true "dark" lovers will find it more "grey." This actually isn't particularly "dark" in the ways that so many lovers of "dark" define it: that is, the H doesn't rape the h; he doesn't harm her; and he . For me, this "greyness" is a relief, but it so straddles a fine line that it may please neither the "dark" nor "non-dark" (for want of a better term) audiences.
2nd ETA: My pet peeve is condescending reviewers who say that those who don't like this book mistakenly read it as an "instruction manual." No, of course not, but if we as readers are supposed to invest in an HEA, we have to care enough about the characters to do so and I found it impossible to have any respect for Luka -- nor did I understand how Mia could. Others found their relationship convincing -- great -- doesn't mean that everyone will, and my feelings have nothing to do with "instruction manuals," but with not wanting an h to end up with an H who doesn't treat her well (you know, little things like that).
My primary emotional reaction to this book is sadness. I never felt that the strong and independent Mia, who overcame an impoverished childhood by putting herself through medical school, found fulfillment in the kind of TPE relationship Luka demanded. While she certainly found sexual pleasure -- and he certainly showered her with expensive gifts -- she spent much of the story yearning for his warmth, attention, and affection. In addition, he set such a high bar for her obedience that few could achieve -- let alone a newbie sub -- that she frequently failed and, thus, felt like, well, a failure. Given that this was counter-productive to her generally low self-esteem and given that she spent much of this book afraid, uncomfortable, or in tears, I couldn't root for their HEA. There is one scene in particular that I found very hard to read: not in a good, emotionally cathartic way, but in a "how could a man who claims to care for a woman do this?" since it breaks her. Ultimately, I never felt that her submission empowered or freed her; rather, I felt that it sucked up all her energy: the one time that she did stand up for herself was when .
While I understand that Ms. Laase was using some of the above plot points to depict Luka's growth, I never liked him (really, he gets points for not acting on his impulse to hit a woman? talk about damning with faint praise). Their M/s relationship was, for the majority of this book, one filled with more red flags than a Chinese New Year's parade. Luka really isn't a good or responsible dominant: he leaves Mia alone after a scene or punishment; he leaves her alone when she's tied up with no ability to escape should, say, the building catch on fire; he frequently loses his temper; and he engages in emotional blackmail by invoking the very problematic concept of the "true submissive" to compel her obedience and telling her he will end the relationship if she doesn't obey him. While it's true that Luka does ultimately . My main point here is that if a man can't be trusted to be a responsible dominant, how are we supposed to buy that Mia wants to pursue a relationship with him?
I had three other problems with this book. First, Mia -- and by extension, the author -- rationalizes Luka's criminal acts by comparing his to hers But there's little (no) moral equivalence between children stealing food to eat and a criminal empire acquiring diamonds and chartering private jets -- not to mention that Mia's "crimes" didn't kill anyone and the Russian mafia's have. I'd have more respect for authors who dabble in "dark" if they didn't try to justify it. Second, this contains Ms. Laase's usual tropes that are not to all tastes: a newbie sub's ability to go from 0 to 180 in the space of a day ('cause Luka magically knows the "little doctor" is submissive), sharing, and public sex/punishments. And, third, it evokes two tropes common to this genre that are my pet peeves: 1) The H blames the h for reasonably objecting to being kidnapped at gunpoint, and 2) The assumption that no one would call the police if they see a man mauling a woman in public.
However, as usual with this author, it was well-written in terms of descriptive prose, correct grammar, and competent editing; the characters had complex backstories and motivations; the conflicts between the MC were organic (lifestyle and values differences) rather than artificially imposed; I appreciated that this h was an accomplished professional and not barely post-pubescent as too many are in these books; and I really appreciated that the author didn't demonize Mia's working-class single mother -- as so many in this genre are wont do. Finally, I did like that within the limitations of the TPE lifestyle, Luka allowed Mia to maintain control over some aspects of her life, such as her career. YMMV; if you think you'll like this book, please read the many 4- and 5-star reviews it's likely to get.
3 stars. That scene with the four of them was too akin to gang rape for my comfort and she forgave him far too easily for it. In fact, it was unbelievable that she ever trusted him again. Given the other unattached men in this book, I suspect that this is the beginning of a series.
Finally, I know this is a losing battle, but this isn't BDSM. BDSM is a real lifestyle that exists in the real world and is practiced by real people. It comes in many forms but it rests on consent, limits, and safewords. Since these were not present here, this is not BDSM. Read about such practices if you want to, write about them if you want to, but don't call it something it's not. You're only impugning a lifestyle you don't understand.
ETA: Regarding the tag, "A Dark Mafia Romance," I'd like to say two things. First, "dark" is now so ubiquitous (and "A Dark Mafia Romance" even more so as SNP has used it at least five times in the last month alone) that I see it as more a marketing ploy than a true content label. In truth, while a lot of this was out of my comfort zone and "dark" in general is hard to quantify explicitly, I suspect that true "dark" lovers will find it more "grey." This actually isn't particularly "dark" in the ways that so many lovers of "dark" define it: that is, the H doesn't rape the h; he doesn't harm her; and he . For me, this "greyness" is a relief, but it so straddles a fine line that it may please neither the "dark" nor "non-dark" (for want of a better term) audiences.
2nd ETA: My pet peeve is condescending reviewers who say that those who don't like this book mistakenly read it as an "instruction manual." No, of course not, but if we as readers are supposed to invest in an HEA, we have to care enough about the characters to do so and I found it impossible to have any respect for Luka -- nor did I understand how Mia could. Others found their relationship convincing -- great -- doesn't mean that everyone will, and my feelings have nothing to do with "instruction manuals," but with not wanting an h to end up with an H who doesn't treat her well (you know, little things like that).
July 29, 2021
2.5 кошка Stars
I really liked the last chapters of the book or else all these tiny details that get on my nerves will have pilled up way too high. I don't know where to start:
¬ This guy is in way too many covers lately, he is so popular...
¬ Luca has curly hair tied into a ponytail, an earring and he isn't clean-shaved in almost the whole book, the model doesn't match the main character and it's a disappointment.
¬ Mentions of communism and women's rights in a book with way too much fetish smut and some moments that are borderline non-consensual... NO
¬ The mafia element is minimal.
¬ The book is like it has two parts: The smutty one and the romantic one. At some point it's like a U-turn and everything becomes so sweet. Like reading two different books.
¬ Continuous and repetitive explanations regarding the "lifestyle" and Luca's actions.
¬ Mia had a serious issue with money...
I really liked the last chapters of the book or else all these tiny details that get on my nerves will have pilled up way too high. I don't know where to start:
¬ This guy is in way too many covers lately, he is so popular...
¬ Luca has curly hair tied into a ponytail, an earring and he isn't clean-shaved in almost the whole book, the model doesn't match the main character and it's a disappointment.
¬ Mentions of communism and women's rights in a book with way too much fetish smut and some moments that are borderline non-consensual... NO
¬ The mafia element is minimal.
¬ The book is like it has two parts: The smutty one and the romantic one. At some point it's like a U-turn and everything becomes so sweet. Like reading two different books.
¬ Continuous and repetitive explanations regarding the "lifestyle" and Luca's actions.
¬ Mia had a serious issue with money...
August 12, 2020
Meh 2.5 to 3
There was a great deal off with this. I am not sure why so high. Luka bordered on abuse. If he was so possessive why did he share. The h was as wishy washy as Ana in 50 shades. I want to do this I don’t want to do this. I don’t want your money but I like nice things. I am not good enough for you. Blah blah blah..... no mafia not really. Not even sure why I finished.
There was a great deal off with this. I am not sure why so high. Luka bordered on abuse. If he was so possessive why did he share. The h was as wishy washy as Ana in 50 shades. I want to do this I don’t want to do this. I don’t want your money but I like nice things. I am not good enough for you. Blah blah blah..... no mafia not really. Not even sure why I finished.
August 10, 2020
UPDATED REVIEW:
UPDATED REVIEW:
I really, really liked this one.
A LOT.
This one hit almost all my buttons: an UBER Alpha DOMINANT Russian anti-H (Luka) who with force 'encourages' the heroine (Mia), an emergency room doctor, to come with him to medically attend to his seriously wounded cousin (Anton).
Visiting America for several months, Luka is not only the heir apparent for his family's Russia based Bratva, he is a hardcore Dominant who demands absolute submission & obedience from women he interacts with in or out of the bedroom. And any percieved sass, snark or disrespect of him by women is summararily dealt with via physical punishment. And while Mia is a natural submissive, she is loaded with sass & snark & American attitude regarding the status of women.
I truly enjoyed this battle of wits, personalities & attitudes between Luka with his deceptively cold exterior that barely contained his ready wrath & temper vs. Mia with her intelligence, backbone, smart mouth & unrealized submissive & erotic desires.
I think the author beautifully wrote the changing dynamics of Luka's hard, cold, untrusting nature & Mia's stumbling but determined steps into submission to a man for whom she was coming to deeply care about. As the story progresses, the reader is given more & more background for both Luka & Mia, understanding how their lives had impacted & forged their personalities to this point.
The growth of relationships in this story, IMO, was wonderful.
I loved Luka's cousins, Slavic, Anton & Yuri; they were hard tough Bratva men with strong ties of family & loyalty but also possessed a wicked & fun sense of humor. And Mia's mother Joy & her half siblings, Robbie, Karrie & Rosie were all sometimes frustrating but definitely humorous additions that I felt were excellent additions to the story.
This one has very subtle romance, a BDSM D/s relationship & steam, some violence, childhood trauma (Luka), suspense & tension. As the author advises, there are spankings, other punishments & a D/s power exchange in Luka & Mia's story.
But I vastly enjoyed this one & have my fingers crossed the author will write about Luka's cousins & Mia's siblings.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
UPDATED REVIEW:
I really, really liked this one.
A LOT.
This one hit almost all my buttons: an UBER Alpha DOMINANT Russian anti-H (Luka) who with force 'encourages' the heroine (Mia), an emergency room doctor, to come with him to medically attend to his seriously wounded cousin (Anton).
Visiting America for several months, Luka is not only the heir apparent for his family's Russia based Bratva, he is a hardcore Dominant who demands absolute submission & obedience from women he interacts with in or out of the bedroom. And any percieved sass, snark or disrespect of him by women is summararily dealt with via physical punishment. And while Mia is a natural submissive, she is loaded with sass & snark & American attitude regarding the status of women.
I truly enjoyed this battle of wits, personalities & attitudes between Luka with his deceptively cold exterior that barely contained his ready wrath & temper vs. Mia with her intelligence, backbone, smart mouth & unrealized submissive & erotic desires.
I think the author beautifully wrote the changing dynamics of Luka's hard, cold, untrusting nature & Mia's stumbling but determined steps into submission to a man for whom she was coming to deeply care about. As the story progresses, the reader is given more & more background for both Luka & Mia, understanding how their lives had impacted & forged their personalities to this point.
The growth of relationships in this story, IMO, was wonderful.
I loved Luka's cousins, Slavic, Anton & Yuri; they were hard tough Bratva men with strong ties of family & loyalty but also possessed a wicked & fun sense of humor. And Mia's mother Joy & her half siblings, Robbie, Karrie & Rosie were all sometimes frustrating but definitely humorous additions that I felt were excellent additions to the story.
This one has very subtle romance, a BDSM D/s relationship & steam, some violence, childhood trauma (Luka), suspense & tension. As the author advises, there are spankings, other punishments & a D/s power exchange in Luka & Mia's story.
But I vastly enjoyed this one & have my fingers crossed the author will write about Luka's cousins & Mia's siblings.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 9, 2020
Just not for me. Good book though
I wish the info had included that there would be scenes of SHARING her with his cousins I skipped the scene the first time it happened but the second one with all of them. Yea not for me. I’ve read dark romance before but this one just wasn’t for me sorry. Written really well for what I read.
I wish the info had included that there would be scenes of SHARING her with his cousins I skipped the scene the first time it happened but the second one with all of them. Yea not for me. I’ve read dark romance before but this one just wasn’t for me sorry. Written really well for what I read.
July 10, 2020
Totally enjoyed reading this mafia romance story, it truely was a delight to read. This Author never fails to deliver on her stories, never has she failed to bring a book and its characters to life. And in this instance in this really great story, one would feel for the heroine, but i had to feel for Lukas character as he has been though so much, and really, it made him to be the man he was today.
Luka needed a doctor to fix his youngest cousin Anton as he had been shot. So he went to the hospital and overheard that Mia Anderson would be going home and spending time alone. So when he picked her up, it wasnt kidnapping in his opinion, after all he did offer to pay her for her services.
Mia was so looking forward to going home after a long shift, and was just about home when she was confronted by a man wanting her to fix a gun shot, she said no, but darn, this dazzling man just wouldnt take no for an answer.
He made her body tingle and want more, so when her job was done she stayed with Luka a bit longer to discover what was between them.
This book is hot and spicy, mixed with a dash of danger .What with Mias mother turning up at Mias house and Lukas father turning up and will Luka be able to make the right choices between himself and Mia?
This certainly is a must read book that all views im sure will love to read.
5plus stars
Luka needed a doctor to fix his youngest cousin Anton as he had been shot. So he went to the hospital and overheard that Mia Anderson would be going home and spending time alone. So when he picked her up, it wasnt kidnapping in his opinion, after all he did offer to pay her for her services.
Mia was so looking forward to going home after a long shift, and was just about home when she was confronted by a man wanting her to fix a gun shot, she said no, but darn, this dazzling man just wouldnt take no for an answer.
He made her body tingle and want more, so when her job was done she stayed with Luka a bit longer to discover what was between them.
This book is hot and spicy, mixed with a dash of danger .What with Mias mother turning up at Mias house and Lukas father turning up and will Luka be able to make the right choices between himself and Mia?
This certainly is a must read book that all views im sure will love to read.
5plus stars
July 13, 2020
Mia is a Doctor and not used to taking orders and then she is taken by Luka, a mob boss because he needs medical attention. When she doesn’t listen, Luka is happy to take her over her knee. Entertaining mafia read with lots of steam, great characters and a hot read. I liked it.
July 24, 2020
HEA
The ending was so abrupt but I was glad MIA wasn’t really exposed to the mob’s dealings. Damir was scary in mane only. The dynamic of Luka & Mia’s relationship was hard to understand.
The ending was so abrupt but I was glad MIA wasn’t really exposed to the mob’s dealings. Damir was scary in mane only. The dynamic of Luka & Mia’s relationship was hard to understand.
October 26, 2020
I did enjoy this book for the most part. In my opinion His dominance was more of the " I'm the man, I'm the boss and you do what I say or I'll beat your ass" There were no safe words, no aftercare, no clear communication. She had never been in such a relationship. Eventually it works out and there becomes a more give and take relationship, her physical and emotional needs met, instead of it being so one sided. Sherrie
December 26, 2020
I kind of wish there would have been more in scenes with the sharing with his cousins so I didn’t feel as if they were raping her during the 2nd scene. But overall I enjoyed this book
February 22, 2022
No, no,no. He threatens her, then seduces her into being a submissive. It’s awful.
I love to read domineering men. He’s awful. He wants to slap her face for being rude to him, after he’s kidnapped her and forced her to treat his cousins gunshot wound. He threatens her when she compliments him on a cake he makes??? She cooks and asked him to load the dishwasher and he tells her she the woman and it’s her job. Oh good grief!!
Then her seduces her into role play, when she asks him to stop, he ignores her, and puts a plug in!!! She tries to ask him about safe words and he tells her that she’ll obey and that’s the only rule!!! That’s so bad on so many levels!!!!
I love to read domineering men. He’s awful. He wants to slap her face for being rude to him, after he’s kidnapped her and forced her to treat his cousins gunshot wound. He threatens her when she compliments him on a cake he makes??? She cooks and asked him to load the dishwasher and he tells her she the woman and it’s her job. Oh good grief!!
Then her seduces her into role play, when she asks him to stop, he ignores her, and puts a plug in!!! She tries to ask him about safe words and he tells her that she’ll obey and that’s the only rule!!! That’s so bad on so many levels!!!!
July 23, 2020
Horrible
NOPE... Spoiler Alert.....He shared her by force. True bratva, mafia etc DO NOT SHARE...anyone knows this. Will not read any others.
NOPE... Spoiler Alert.....He shared her by force. True bratva, mafia etc DO NOT SHARE...anyone knows this. Will not read any others.
February 11, 2021
Dnf at 35%. Just really not into H sharing h with others.
June 30, 2021
Rape disguised as romance
This book was a total dissappointment. Invtingyour cousins to basically have forced sex with your sub without her concent is rape.
This book was a total dissappointment. Invtingyour cousins to basically have forced sex with your sub without her concent is rape.
October 8, 2021
I could not suspend belief to accommodate the doctor's complete acceptance of her "relationship" to Luka - nor could I sympathize much with either of them.
DNF 28%
DNF 28%
July 25, 2020
Warning: This story is very dark and has an obsessive compulsive alpha male who is an over-the-top controlling individual heavily involved in BDSM; bondage, discipline sadism and masochism. This story is not for everyone because there is an event in this story that borders on serial rape of the heroine all under the guise of "disciplining her". It is a degrading and a self-loathing experience for the heroine.
Past BDSM novels that I have read have defined the story as involving two consenting adults that enter into a dark sexual relationship that includes setting boundaries, using a safe word and forging a mutual respect for each other. This novel does not do that. Luka is the only character with any control in this relationship. He invokes pain by psychological and physical discipline in his attempt to control Mia's every move. If you can get past that then read on.
Luka's character is very complex, with dueling contrasts of good and bad. His childhood is riddled with things a child should never have to see or experience leaving a damaged soul. His father is a heartless cold blooded man. Luka's dysfunction is layer by layer revealed to the reader as the book progresses.
Mia's character while smart and an accomplished ER doctor has it's issues as well. Her character is a mix of mouthy and feisty with an underlying self-loathing of herself. She still sees herself as "white trash" and not deserving of her accomplishments. Her continued support of her mother and younger siblings seems admirable at times, but also seems guilt ridden.
She embarks on a one night stand with Luka after she is kidnapped and taken to his home to treat a GSW that his cousin Anton received during a shoot out with a rival gang. Luka goes into his "discipline" mode and she immediately becomes his willing submissive. One night turns into months with Luka's constant inflection of "discipline" because Mia is always doing something that he doesn't approve of. His character at times is suffocating. During this time he buys her furniture, clothes, jewelry; fixing her home while giving her all that she will accept that his money can buy. The gentler side of his personality rises to the top during this time. Unfortunately, his character is a chameleon, always changing colors leaving the reader jaw-struck when he flips the switch from one personality to the next. Mia eats up the attention becoming more and more submissive. I prefer stronger women in my books. Her character while strong in some ways was a disappointment in others. There were times in the novel when she should have left him, walked away seeing the relationship for what it was. She wanted love and mutual respect; something Luka isn't capable of delivering until the end of the book.
This book has it all if you can stand the ride. It's well written and the author does a good job of delving into each character's previous life while developing a story in real time. Enjoy.
Past BDSM novels that I have read have defined the story as involving two consenting adults that enter into a dark sexual relationship that includes setting boundaries, using a safe word and forging a mutual respect for each other. This novel does not do that. Luka is the only character with any control in this relationship. He invokes pain by psychological and physical discipline in his attempt to control Mia's every move. If you can get past that then read on.
Luka's character is very complex, with dueling contrasts of good and bad. His childhood is riddled with things a child should never have to see or experience leaving a damaged soul. His father is a heartless cold blooded man. Luka's dysfunction is layer by layer revealed to the reader as the book progresses.
Mia's character while smart and an accomplished ER doctor has it's issues as well. Her character is a mix of mouthy and feisty with an underlying self-loathing of herself. She still sees herself as "white trash" and not deserving of her accomplishments. Her continued support of her mother and younger siblings seems admirable at times, but also seems guilt ridden.
She embarks on a one night stand with Luka after she is kidnapped and taken to his home to treat a GSW that his cousin Anton received during a shoot out with a rival gang. Luka goes into his "discipline" mode and she immediately becomes his willing submissive. One night turns into months with Luka's constant inflection of "discipline" because Mia is always doing something that he doesn't approve of. His character at times is suffocating. During this time he buys her furniture, clothes, jewelry; fixing her home while giving her all that she will accept that his money can buy. The gentler side of his personality rises to the top during this time. Unfortunately, his character is a chameleon, always changing colors leaving the reader jaw-struck when he flips the switch from one personality to the next. Mia eats up the attention becoming more and more submissive. I prefer stronger women in my books. Her character while strong in some ways was a disappointment in others. There were times in the novel when she should have left him, walked away seeing the relationship for what it was. She wanted love and mutual respect; something Luka isn't capable of delivering until the end of the book.
This book has it all if you can stand the ride. It's well written and the author does a good job of delving into each character's previous life while developing a story in real time. Enjoy.
April 2, 2021
The Russian is the first book in Isabella Laase’s Bratva Masters series. In this book readers meet Dr. Mia Anderson and Luka Petruskenkov. Mia is a petite, beautiful, determined, and competent emergency room doctor. Through her determination and internal strength, she changed her life trajectory crossing socio-economic lines from trailer park trash to a respected medical doctor. Despite all she has going for her, Mia, in her inner core, she is submissive. Luka is part of a Russian mafia family sent to America at the family’s bidding. He his accomplished at what he does. He is a dominant alpha male. An unfavorable situation leaves his cousin, Anton, wounded with gunshot wounds in a thigh and shoulder. Luka seeks medical attention. He finds Mia and kidnaps her. Luka is drawn to Mia. After Mia treats Anton, Luka enters a romantic liaison with her. Both faces their inner demons. Can they find happiness? Will they be able to overcome their inner demons? Will their relationship evolve to one of true love? Will their pasts come back to haunt them?
I liked this romantic suspense plot. I appreciated how Ms. Laase strengthens it by adding suspense through the antagonist, Luka’s father, the patriarch of their mob family. As the first book in this series, Ms. Laase also introduces us to a group of secondary characters that play an instrumental role in the defusing the threat of the crime boss.
Dialog is outstanding. The banter between Mia and Luka makes readers chuckle, but at times is heart wrenching. Ms. Laase outdid herself with the pacing of her plot as she takes readers on an emotional roller coaster ride. Her skill in using a dual point of view allowed readers to be engrossed in this story. Additionally, this strategy provides readers with insight into Mia and Luka's true character. Her descriptive scenes are another way she heightens the tension of the rise and fall of her plot line. Readers are transported into each scene allowing them to feel a range of emotions for these characters. Some of the BDSM scenes were a bit too much for me. Nevertheless, I did enjoy this book and am looking forward to reading the rest of this series. Well done!
I liked this romantic suspense plot. I appreciated how Ms. Laase strengthens it by adding suspense through the antagonist, Luka’s father, the patriarch of their mob family. As the first book in this series, Ms. Laase also introduces us to a group of secondary characters that play an instrumental role in the defusing the threat of the crime boss.
Dialog is outstanding. The banter between Mia and Luka makes readers chuckle, but at times is heart wrenching. Ms. Laase outdid herself with the pacing of her plot as she takes readers on an emotional roller coaster ride. Her skill in using a dual point of view allowed readers to be engrossed in this story. Additionally, this strategy provides readers with insight into Mia and Luka's true character. Her descriptive scenes are another way she heightens the tension of the rise and fall of her plot line. Readers are transported into each scene allowing them to feel a range of emotions for these characters. Some of the BDSM scenes were a bit too much for me. Nevertheless, I did enjoy this book and am looking forward to reading the rest of this series. Well done!
July 8, 2020
The story of Luka and Mia is intense. They are both people whose lives have left them unable to put trust in anybody. She knows from the start that he is part of a criminal organization. She is a doctor who managed to achieve that goal despite her poor, dysfunctional background. The hero and heroine are, on the surface, people with nothing in common. But the chemistry between them is irresistible.
The sexual dynamic of the relationship between them is BDSM, M/s focused. I have read a fair number of novels with this type of subject matter, but there was one part in particular, with Luka’s cousins, that startled me. I don’t give spoilers, so if you want to see what I’m talking about, just read the book. There are solid layers of emotion in this book; Fear, pain, anger, excitement, curiosity, humor, frustration, desperation, forgiveness. Love. When Luca and Mia finally get their HEA, it is beautifully done.
Remember, this is not an instruction manual about the correct way to conduct any particular type of relationship. It’s a creative work of fiction. I think the author did a great job creating the universe in which these characters live. I found this book to be well-written and engaging. I actually read it straight through because I kept wanting to see what would happen next. Isabella Laase has also set the stage for additional books to make this a series. I will definitely be on the lookout for more
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. I also purchased a copy on Amazon.
The sexual dynamic of the relationship between them is BDSM, M/s focused. I have read a fair number of novels with this type of subject matter, but there was one part in particular, with Luka’s cousins, that startled me. I don’t give spoilers, so if you want to see what I’m talking about, just read the book. There are solid layers of emotion in this book; Fear, pain, anger, excitement, curiosity, humor, frustration, desperation, forgiveness. Love. When Luca and Mia finally get their HEA, it is beautifully done.
Remember, this is not an instruction manual about the correct way to conduct any particular type of relationship. It’s a creative work of fiction. I think the author did a great job creating the universe in which these characters live. I found this book to be well-written and engaging. I actually read it straight through because I kept wanting to see what would happen next. Isabella Laase has also set the stage for additional books to make this a series. I will definitely be on the lookout for more
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. I also purchased a copy on Amazon.
July 5, 2020
Style: Mafia Dark Romance
Story: 3/5
Sexual: FAIR
Enjoyment: 2/5
Series: N/A
I’ll start off by saying, my interpretation of dark is what made me not invested in this story. I truly tried, but I didn’t feel a connection with Luka. In the beginning, first few chapters, yes, then it dwindled. Mia, she is strong and isn’t familiar with Luka’s mobster lifestyle professionally or personally with his need for dominance BDSM in the bedroom.
For dark, I was expecting and wanted more with their sex scenes. The first time, I did think to myself when it was over, wait that’s it? I did find my self wanting to skip through pages.
Overall, because I didn’t care much for Luka and Mia in this story setting, doesn’t mean it isn’t a read for someone else. This book truly boils down to taste. The personal taste of the reader is what will determine if this is the read for you or not.
***I don’t equate these stories to real life, its definitely about personal taste and what you would or want to tolerate with the stories you read. I hope this review was helpful.
Story: 3/5
Sexual: FAIR
Enjoyment: 2/5
Series: N/A
I’ll start off by saying, my interpretation of dark is what made me not invested in this story. I truly tried, but I didn’t feel a connection with Luka. In the beginning, first few chapters, yes, then it dwindled. Mia, she is strong and isn’t familiar with Luka’s mobster lifestyle professionally or personally with his need for dominance BDSM in the bedroom.
For dark, I was expecting and wanted more with their sex scenes. The first time, I did think to myself when it was over, wait that’s it? I did find my self wanting to skip through pages.
Overall, because I didn’t care much for Luka and Mia in this story setting, doesn’t mean it isn’t a read for someone else. This book truly boils down to taste. The personal taste of the reader is what will determine if this is the read for you or not.
***I don’t equate these stories to real life, its definitely about personal taste and what you would or want to tolerate with the stories you read. I hope this review was helpful.
July 15, 2020
When I saw that this new series was about the Russian Mafia I admit I was slightly bored, because it would seem that Russian Mafia is in fashion and I thought, not another one. However I am a fan of Ms Laase, so of course I would give a go. Good call, this was a fabulous story and although it was set around the Bratva, it was really a love story. The characters were compelling and well rounded with oodles of baggage and angst and I quickly became invested in their futures and found I couldn’t put it down until suddenly I was at the end and thought how sad a bit like losing an only friend. Essentially this is an erotic romance and it contains all the expected elements, hot raunchy love scenes and eye watering discipline delivered by a stern and serious master to and a strong feisty young submissive . Ms Laase’s book has put a breath of fresh air into this rather tired genre and I for one cannot wait to see what the next books in the series will be. Isabella has delivered five great big stars from me.
July 11, 2020
Each of the main characters in The Russian have both had a hard life, but in very different ways. Luka was raised with money, but his family is very dark and controlling. Mia grew up sharing a trailer with her brother and sisters and has had to work for everything she has while still supporting her family. Each of their family dynamics have shaped them into the person they are. After being kidnapped by Luka, Mia finds she is willing to look the other way for the money to help her family.
I loved the story and it definitely kept my interest. There were warm family moments, some humor and plenty of steam. The transition from captive to love interest was smooth and not creepy. However, the humiliation as discipline aspect was not for me.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I loved the story and it definitely kept my interest. There were warm family moments, some humor and plenty of steam. The transition from captive to love interest was smooth and not creepy. However, the humiliation as discipline aspect was not for me.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 14, 2020
Sensational Read
This story was one I started and couldn’t put down.
The Russian is not the typical Russian Mafia/Bratva story. Yes, there are aspects but the story truly focuses on the physical and emotional relationship between the good doctor and Luca.
I don’t post spoilers but I will say there some steamy scenes in here as well as an amazing detail to the emotional turmoil Mia encounters developing her submissive tendencies. Her battles, her understanding of the lifestyle and even the raw vulnerability resonates throughout. Opposite, Luca and his family guide Mia in a way through her journey explaining the basic principles to the lifestyle. Luca too embarks on a journey that is sure to make your heart (and panties) melt.
While this book is not focused on BDSM in every page, it is a heavy theme done tastefully and eloquently.
This story was one I started and couldn’t put down.
The Russian is not the typical Russian Mafia/Bratva story. Yes, there are aspects but the story truly focuses on the physical and emotional relationship between the good doctor and Luca.
I don’t post spoilers but I will say there some steamy scenes in here as well as an amazing detail to the emotional turmoil Mia encounters developing her submissive tendencies. Her battles, her understanding of the lifestyle and even the raw vulnerability resonates throughout. Opposite, Luca and his family guide Mia in a way through her journey explaining the basic principles to the lifestyle. Luca too embarks on a journey that is sure to make your heart (and panties) melt.
While this book is not focused on BDSM in every page, it is a heavy theme done tastefully and eloquently.
July 12, 2020
Luka and Mia
This books has everything you need in a Russian dark romance. It has passion and intensity and emotion. Luka comes hard with discipline and a much needed lesson in appreciation for love. He taught Mia how to accept his dominant hand and that she had to let him into her fears. There is nothing wrong with enjoying life. This is more character driven and I liked that too. It’s focused on the actions of the characters and not the violence of the mafia. He wanted her to have nice things since she came from a harsh childhood. Luka embraces her family and she did the same with his. I believe they both taught one another to love. Great book! Definitely worth the read.
This books has everything you need in a Russian dark romance. It has passion and intensity and emotion. Luka comes hard with discipline and a much needed lesson in appreciation for love. He taught Mia how to accept his dominant hand and that she had to let him into her fears. There is nothing wrong with enjoying life. This is more character driven and I liked that too. It’s focused on the actions of the characters and not the violence of the mafia. He wanted her to have nice things since she came from a harsh childhood. Luka embraces her family and she did the same with his. I believe they both taught one another to love. Great book! Definitely worth the read.
September 20, 2020
So this was surprisingly good. Surprisingly I say because I did not know there was BDSM in this book and that is just not my thing. So it hit me by surprise but I was too invested in the story to quit so I kept reading and really enjoyed this story. In spite of the BDSM elements and that's just personal. It's mafia but not dark at all and the H is surprisingly sweet and respectful to the h.
Trigger warning: there is sharing which isnt a problem for me since I love menage but I know some people feel strongly about it. The H shares her with his cousins as form of punishment. Not all the way but touching and oral. She is freaked but enjoys is.
I will be looking forward to reading other books in this (new) series.
Trigger warning: there is sharing which isnt a problem for me since I love menage but I know some people feel strongly about it. The H shares her with his cousins as form of punishment. Not all the way but touching and oral. She is freaked but enjoys is.
I will be looking forward to reading other books in this (new) series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 4, 2020
YPA! YPA!! - отлично сработан! Most Excellent! Bravo! - Totally Googled
Guys! I sat down to read for a bit and ended up finishing it in one fell swoop! SO GOOD! There are good books and there are good writers, The Russian has both. It is delightfully, wickedly dark. Can you say YUM? I mean, we are talking about a Russian Mafioso here. He kidnaps... no pardon, he Pre acquired her professional medical services in a business deal. Totally kidnapped her!!! And the Fun, Sass, Punishment and sweet Submission continue from there. Maybe a bit of healing and Love too. There are so many great lines that made me burst out laughing. I know you will enjoy reading. Go get it now. Hurry up!
rumrunner
Guys! I sat down to read for a bit and ended up finishing it in one fell swoop! SO GOOD! There are good books and there are good writers, The Russian has both. It is delightfully, wickedly dark. Can you say YUM? I mean, we are talking about a Russian Mafioso here. He kidnaps... no pardon, he Pre acquired her professional medical services in a business deal. Totally kidnapped her!!! And the Fun, Sass, Punishment and sweet Submission continue from there. Maybe a bit of healing and Love too. There are so many great lines that made me burst out laughing. I know you will enjoy reading. Go get it now. Hurry up!
rumrunner
July 11, 2020
When Russian Luka Petruskenkov needs a doctor to treat his cousin, resident Mia will do. When Mia is basically kidnapped, she has no choice but to help Luka. After she helps, he "asks" her to stay with him for a while. He's introduced her to a world of sexuality that she never knew existed.. Luca is a Dom and he recognizes submissiveness in her that she never knew she had. Somehow the temporary relationship gets really deep really fast. This is a really sexy, hot story with romance and danger and fierce attraction.
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.
July 9, 2020
I am so in love with this book. I fell in love with the characters in this book. Luka and Mia are from totally different worlds, but they end up fitting together like puzzle pieces. Mia is a strong and independent woman. Luka is a strong alpha male that is use to getting his own way. But together instead of being oil and water, they come together beautifully.
I have never read anything by Isabella Laase, but I am absolutely impressed.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I have never read anything by Isabella Laase, but I am absolutely impressed.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 12, 2020
A great Mafia romance story. Dr. Mia Anderson is on her way home when Luka, who was eavesdropping at the hospital. picked her up to help patch up a gun shot. Luka is willing to pay for her services but she just wasn't interested. Luka doesn't take no for an answer so she ends up with a Dom who knows she is somehow a submissive. This is dark and sinfully sexy. There is humor, steam, suspense and danger. This is a story that will keep you reading until the very end. Highly recommend. I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 14, 2020
dr. mia anderson happened to be a t the wrong plavce and luka petrukenkov happened to be at the right place to find the doctor for his injured cousin. she;s the doctor and hes the criminal can these come together and make it work despite the hot chemistry they have both of them have issues with thier pastand yes being witheach other the future as wel. this was a well written story with intrique, pain, excitment betrayal and love.
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.
July 15, 2020
This is Mia and Luka’s amazing story. I was drawn into the story pretty much from the get-go. They are both strong well written characters from very different worlds so seeing them come together was fun and interesting to read. There are some possible triggers for some readers due to the D/s relationship that they have, so be warned. I loved everything about this book and have yet to read a book from this author that I have not loved.
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.
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