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Bratva Crime Syndicate #2
Scars He Gave Me
Ten years ago, he tore my heart out.
Today’s my wedding day, and he’s come to claim the rest of me.
Ten years ago, Tomas left me behind.
No answers. No explanation. Just gone without a trace.
I thought I could move on.
I thought I could forget him.
But on the day of my wedding, here he is again:
The boy I used to love.
The years have made him harder. Darker.
And the gun in his hand shows just how far he’s fallen.
I thought the scars he gave me a decade ago were painful.
But the look in his eyes says he’s only just begun.
SCARS HE GAVE ME is a full-length, standalone second chance mafia romance novel in the Bratva Crime Syndicate series.
Today’s my wedding day, and he’s come to claim the rest of me.
Ten years ago, Tomas left me behind.
No answers. No explanation. Just gone without a trace.
I thought I could move on.
I thought I could forget him.
But on the day of my wedding, here he is again:
The boy I used to love.
The years have made him harder. Darker.
And the gun in his hand shows just how far he’s fallen.
I thought the scars he gave me a decade ago were painful.
But the look in his eyes says he’s only just begun.
SCARS HE GAVE ME is a full-length, standalone second chance mafia romance novel in the Bratva Crime Syndicate series.
306 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 5, 2020
654 people are currently reading
951 people want to read
About the author
Nicole Fox
203 books4,897 followersNicole Fox writes smart, sexy mafia romance novels. She is a crazy cat lady in her late 30s with a coffee addiction, an overactive imagination, and a husband who somehow puts up with her impulsive need to keep buying new plants for their house.
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
July 26, 2021
4 stars
Another action packed goodness.
I seriously love this series. I only take away 1 star because they got back together a bit too fast for my liking. I like some complication on the way. But still, this is a great read. We have action, heartache, passion and steam. Oh, and great characters. What else do I need?
Plus, we have a quick reappearance of Gavril from the previous book. And I love that bastard!! :)
All in all, a great book. Can't wait to read Sins He Taught Me. This is a great series and I really like this style of writing. My cup of tea, hands down.
Now off to book 3.
Another action packed goodness.
I seriously love this series. I only take away 1 star because they got back together a bit too fast for my liking. I like some complication on the way. But still, this is a great read. We have action, heartache, passion and steam. Oh, and great characters. What else do I need?
Plus, we have a quick reappearance of Gavril from the previous book. And I love that bastard!! :)
All in all, a great book. Can't wait to read Sins He Taught Me. This is a great series and I really like this style of writing. My cup of tea, hands down.
Now off to book 3.
November 8, 2020
I really liked Corinne, especially during and after the kidnapping.
November 5, 2020
This is an amazingly, suspenseful dark mafia romance with an intriguing “second chance” undertone & it is guaranteed to attract the reader’s attention & keep it until the end. The plot is well-written & interesting with vivid scene descriptions & good world building. The well-developed characters are individually quite unique with strong-willed personalities & have intense far-reaching plans with a determination to succeed at any cost. There is good support from the secondary characters.
It is about: a hardened bratva man (Tomas aka Tommy) rescues a newly married old flame (Corinne) in a precarious position instigated by her deceitful husband (Alvin) then the attractions begin to flare between them once again.
There is: action, adventure, Italian mafia/bratva rivalry, family issues, human trafficking, computer viruses, twists & turns, intrigue, suspense, drama, devious plans, murder, brutality, abduction, deceit, betrayal, secrets, mystery, danger, threats, enemies, conflict, violence, confrontations, misunderstandings, complications, manipulations, contentment, steamy scenes, love & a well-deserved satisfying epilogue. I enjoyed reading this mafia romance & would recommend it.
It is about: a hardened bratva man (Tomas aka Tommy) rescues a newly married old flame (Corinne) in a precarious position instigated by her deceitful husband (Alvin) then the attractions begin to flare between them once again.
There is: action, adventure, Italian mafia/bratva rivalry, family issues, human trafficking, computer viruses, twists & turns, intrigue, suspense, drama, devious plans, murder, brutality, abduction, deceit, betrayal, secrets, mystery, danger, threats, enemies, conflict, violence, confrontations, misunderstandings, complications, manipulations, contentment, steamy scenes, love & a well-deserved satisfying epilogue. I enjoyed reading this mafia romance & would recommend it.
December 7, 2022
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋💋
Book two of this Collection is just as good as the first. Tense , spine tingling Mafia Romance with so much action , your never going to be bored reading any book from this author.
Wonderful characters and great continuation of the story.
💋💋💋
Book two of this Collection is just as good as the first. Tense , spine tingling Mafia Romance with so much action , your never going to be bored reading any book from this author.
Wonderful characters and great continuation of the story.
June 19, 2025
This one was soooo good! I am such a sucker for a good second chance romance, and this one gave everything. The FMC was badass and held her own. Not a pushover. Something that seems to happen in these types of books. The chemistry was so there, and I was eating it up!
Torn between 4 and 4.5 🌟.
Torn between 4 and 4.5 🌟.
May 24, 2021
2.5*
someone said that this was better than book one but maybe i just don’t vibe with this authors writing style/plot/ characters 🤷🏽♀️
someone said that this was better than book one but maybe i just don’t vibe with this authors writing style/plot/ characters 🤷🏽♀️
July 17, 2021
3.5 stars
This was a good read. I was pretty excited about it in the beginning, the premise was an original take on a mafia romance as well as a second chance romance. I loved how the hero and heroine connected in highschool. At a certain point, I felt like I was more interested in things that were glossed over than what was explored more in depth. That made my interest wane a little. It had the potential to be great for me, but I ran into some issues. Others will likely not find much or any of this a problem, though.
One thing that eats away at me is Tomas's mother's about-face. It's probably not a big deal to other people that noticed it, but it pissed me off. I'm starting to get fed up with the role of deathbed confessions as a plot device in romance novels. The vast majority of the time, there was either a. no good reason to change their mind about on the secrets they had kept, or b. no good reason to keep the secret in the first place. A deathbed apparently gives a person carte-blanche to make all kinds of big decisions without strong, or any, rationale provided. It's tired as hell and annoying as fuck.
I was way into the heroine. She was an awkward loner and a super talented computer genius. Shit yes. I was all about that. I had one big problem with her, though. In the story, Corrine saw her highschool sweetheart Tomas for the first time since he had abandoned her suddenly and without a trace ten years prior. She had thought they were forever, and she was understandably still deeply hurt and angry over his cruel departure. But for all her pain and for how severely he had wronged her, the heroine made herself emotionally vulnerable wildly easily. The sex I could understand, but they weren't even on good terms yet, and she was telling him that she missed him when he had left for a few hours. He hadn't done anything by way of atonement or explanation at this point, either. For all her damage, I would expect to see some more self-preservation.
She also never took the time to understand exactly what was up with the Bratva, or what the hero's role in it was. For how much she liked to call him a murderer to make him feel like shit in their arguments, she didn't seem to care enough about the hero's life's work or its moral implications. She cared - kind of - in one instance when she was considering helping him, but that was it, and it mostly seemed like an excuse for more righteousness anyway.
I cared. I wanted to know how an average, sweet kid just out of highschool grappled with his sudden life service in the Russian mafia. I wanted to know how he got from there to cold blooded killer. On the one hand, he was the guy that was incensed by an almost rape, and who would never lay his hands on Corrine no matter his anger. On the other, the Bratva was making its living in human sex trafficking, which means that he was literally making a living off of systematic rape, violent subjugation of women, and human enslavement, and he showed no discomfort with it.
Part of my interest is that - and I know this is a hot take - I think human trafficking is probably the most vile, least sexy thing a person could do. The way I see it, people who auction off human beings don't need romance so much as they need to be set on fire. It's for this reason that I tend to avoid books where the hero is in human trafficking. Unfortunately I didn't know about the slavery bit before I started this one. I rationalized it away because he didn't have much choice in his life in the Bratva, and he didn't have anything to do with the actual trafficking that I could tell. He was in the muscle/hitman department, which I can swallow a little better. But I still wished I could have understood his position better.
In the end, some of my issues got resolved. That's cool, but it seemed way too easy and kind of a copout.
This brings me to my last issue, which is the epilogue. It was a little cloying for my taste.
For all of my nitpicking, there was a good amount of fun in there. I think most people will probably like this one a lot.
This was a good read. I was pretty excited about it in the beginning, the premise was an original take on a mafia romance as well as a second chance romance. I loved how the hero and heroine connected in highschool. At a certain point, I felt like I was more interested in things that were glossed over than what was explored more in depth. That made my interest wane a little. It had the potential to be great for me, but I ran into some issues. Others will likely not find much or any of this a problem, though.
One thing that eats away at me is Tomas's mother's about-face. It's probably not a big deal to other people that noticed it, but it pissed me off. I'm starting to get fed up with the role of deathbed confessions as a plot device in romance novels. The vast majority of the time, there was either a. no good reason to change their mind about on the secrets they had kept, or b. no good reason to keep the secret in the first place. A deathbed apparently gives a person carte-blanche to make all kinds of big decisions without strong, or any, rationale provided. It's tired as hell and annoying as fuck.
I was way into the heroine. She was an awkward loner and a super talented computer genius. Shit yes. I was all about that. I had one big problem with her, though. In the story, Corrine saw her highschool sweetheart Tomas for the first time since he had abandoned her suddenly and without a trace ten years prior. She had thought they were forever, and she was understandably still deeply hurt and angry over his cruel departure. But for all her pain and for how severely he had wronged her, the heroine made herself emotionally vulnerable wildly easily. The sex I could understand, but they weren't even on good terms yet, and she was telling him that she missed him when he had left for a few hours. He hadn't done anything by way of atonement or explanation at this point, either. For all her damage, I would expect to see some more self-preservation.
She also never took the time to understand exactly what was up with the Bratva, or what the hero's role in it was. For how much she liked to call him a murderer to make him feel like shit in their arguments, she didn't seem to care enough about the hero's life's work or its moral implications. She cared - kind of - in one instance when she was considering helping him, but that was it, and it mostly seemed like an excuse for more righteousness anyway.
I cared. I wanted to know how an average, sweet kid just out of highschool grappled with his sudden life service in the Russian mafia. I wanted to know how he got from there to cold blooded killer. On the one hand, he was the guy that was incensed by an almost rape, and who would never lay his hands on Corrine no matter his anger. On the other, the Bratva was making its living in human sex trafficking, which means that he was literally making a living off of systematic rape, violent subjugation of women, and human enslavement, and he showed no discomfort with it.
Part of my interest is that - and I know this is a hot take - I think human trafficking is probably the most vile, least sexy thing a person could do. The way I see it, people who auction off human beings don't need romance so much as they need to be set on fire. It's for this reason that I tend to avoid books where the hero is in human trafficking. Unfortunately I didn't know about the slavery bit before I started this one. I rationalized it away because he didn't have much choice in his life in the Bratva, and he didn't have anything to do with the actual trafficking that I could tell. He was in the muscle/hitman department, which I can swallow a little better. But I still wished I could have understood his position better.
In the end, some of my issues got resolved. That's cool, but it seemed way too easy and kind of a copout.
This brings me to my last issue, which is the epilogue. It was a little cloying for my taste.
For all of my nitpicking, there was a good amount of fun in there. I think most people will probably like this one a lot.
November 6, 2020
Corrie and Thomas met in high school and for 2 years they were dating, they were deeply in love, with plans for the future, until one night while they were in bed together Thomas received a call but Corrie convinces him not to pick up the phone. The next morning Corrie wakes up and sees Thomas furious with her, the call was from his sick mother to take her to the hospital, that same day his mother dies and he leaves without saying goodbye.
10 years has passed and Thomas has joined the ranks of his father’s Bratva and he is his personal hitman. He is entrusted with a job in a hotel, but while he waits for his mark hidden in the close, he realizes that there has been a mixup. The room doesn’t belong to a member of the Italian mafia, it’s the room of a newlyweds and the bride is Corrie. Thomas decides to act when Corrie’s husband ties her up and tries to rape her. He takes her out of there and convinces her to go home with him with the excuse that her lie is in danger, and that’s how this 2 old lovers reconnect again.
What Thomas doesn’t tell her is that he is betrothed to a another woman , the daughter of another Brtava’s don. But that doesn’t prevent him from sleeping with Corrie again, and is that despite all the years that have passed, he has never be able to forget her.
A computer virus is causing problems for Thomas’ Bratva and he asks Corrie for help, who is a computer genius, without knowing that he will put her in the eye of the shit storm, a war that will end up facing him with the Italian mafia and with the family of his future wife.
When all the secrets and betrayals begin to come to light, Corrie and Thomas will have to do what is necessary to survive and to one day be able to get back together as they used to.
I ❤️this story, hooked me from the first page.
“I know everything about you, for starters.” “You don’t know shit,” she answers at once. Her cheeks flush and she’s too slow turning away so I see it. I see the effect I have on her. “I know what your skin feels like against mine. I know how you taste on my tongue.” Her blink is a little long, and the gulp is just a bonus for me. “And I know all about that surprised, sleepy smile when I wake you up by licking your pussy.” What I��ve meant to do to her, I’ve done to myself. It’s shocking but evident. No point in trying to hide it anymore. “Tommy …” She’s breathless. Excited. Then angry. She moves away. “Stop it.” Her tone is almost as hard as my cock. We both need to release the mounting pressure. But we’re in a coffee shop, and she won’t look at me now. “I don’t want to stop. I want to kiss you here.” I glide my finger down her spine to her waistband. “And here.” I drag it around to her belly button. “And here.” I can’t get enough of touching her and as I’m about to slip lower, she catches my wrist. This time, she doesn’t move, doesn’t push me away, just holds on, smoothing her thumb over the pulse point in my wrist, with the same gentle grip she uses to stroke my cock. Fuck. I need her. Now. I want her. Now. “I was young and confused, but I’m not confused about anything right now. You’re everything I want. The only one I want.” Although, as soon as I say the words, a picture of Katerina filters through my brain. Fuck. I don’t generally suffer guilt. I do what I have to do, not by my choice but by necessity and out of loyalty to my family. Guilt isn’t part of that. But right now, I’m swimming upstream in a river of shit laced with guilt because the woman I want more than anything isn’t the woman I’m supposed to marry.
Things between Tommy and I have been … so … unsettled and strange. We’re adults now, adults with scarred hearts. Not the same people we were when we were teenagers who only had eyes for each other. Not naïve enough to believe we can make it through anything anymore. All our childish dreams and ideas are gone. They died when he left. Because there’s still that one thing between us that can never die. I don’t know what to call it or how to express it. All I know is that I feel it more than ever right now. Love. Fate. Destiny. I’m meant for him and he’s meant for me.
10 years has passed and Thomas has joined the ranks of his father’s Bratva and he is his personal hitman. He is entrusted with a job in a hotel, but while he waits for his mark hidden in the close, he realizes that there has been a mixup. The room doesn’t belong to a member of the Italian mafia, it’s the room of a newlyweds and the bride is Corrie. Thomas decides to act when Corrie’s husband ties her up and tries to rape her. He takes her out of there and convinces her to go home with him with the excuse that her lie is in danger, and that’s how this 2 old lovers reconnect again.
What Thomas doesn’t tell her is that he is betrothed to a another woman , the daughter of another Brtava’s don. But that doesn’t prevent him from sleeping with Corrie again, and is that despite all the years that have passed, he has never be able to forget her.
A computer virus is causing problems for Thomas’ Bratva and he asks Corrie for help, who is a computer genius, without knowing that he will put her in the eye of the shit storm, a war that will end up facing him with the Italian mafia and with the family of his future wife.
When all the secrets and betrayals begin to come to light, Corrie and Thomas will have to do what is necessary to survive and to one day be able to get back together as they used to.
I ❤️this story, hooked me from the first page.
“I know everything about you, for starters.” “You don’t know shit,” she answers at once. Her cheeks flush and she’s too slow turning away so I see it. I see the effect I have on her. “I know what your skin feels like against mine. I know how you taste on my tongue.” Her blink is a little long, and the gulp is just a bonus for me. “And I know all about that surprised, sleepy smile when I wake you up by licking your pussy.” What I��ve meant to do to her, I’ve done to myself. It’s shocking but evident. No point in trying to hide it anymore. “Tommy …” She’s breathless. Excited. Then angry. She moves away. “Stop it.” Her tone is almost as hard as my cock. We both need to release the mounting pressure. But we’re in a coffee shop, and she won’t look at me now. “I don’t want to stop. I want to kiss you here.” I glide my finger down her spine to her waistband. “And here.” I drag it around to her belly button. “And here.” I can’t get enough of touching her and as I’m about to slip lower, she catches my wrist. This time, she doesn’t move, doesn’t push me away, just holds on, smoothing her thumb over the pulse point in my wrist, with the same gentle grip she uses to stroke my cock. Fuck. I need her. Now. I want her. Now. “I was young and confused, but I’m not confused about anything right now. You’re everything I want. The only one I want.” Although, as soon as I say the words, a picture of Katerina filters through my brain. Fuck. I don’t generally suffer guilt. I do what I have to do, not by my choice but by necessity and out of loyalty to my family. Guilt isn’t part of that. But right now, I’m swimming upstream in a river of shit laced with guilt because the woman I want more than anything isn’t the woman I’m supposed to marry.
Things between Tommy and I have been … so … unsettled and strange. We’re adults now, adults with scarred hearts. Not the same people we were when we were teenagers who only had eyes for each other. Not naïve enough to believe we can make it through anything anymore. All our childish dreams and ideas are gone. They died when he left. Because there’s still that one thing between us that can never die. I don’t know what to call it or how to express it. All I know is that I feel it more than ever right now. Love. Fate. Destiny. I’m meant for him and he’s meant for me.
November 8, 2020
Do you ever pick up a book knowing exactly what you’re going to read? You think, “This is going to be a (enter qualifiers here)” and then you start reading and realize you were one hundred percent, right?
Yeah, this is NOT that book #sorrynotsorry!
The addition starts with the book cover….yeah…yeah…yeah don’t judge a book by its cover they say ….well we all do it and this one here it is the scratch to your itch or better yet the filling to your oreos! Speaking of filling…..wait, that’s for later. Within the first chapters you get the panoramic view of whom you’re dealing with!
Bad boy….check
Bod boy’s crazy brother/friend…check
Bad boy’s Kryptonie…check ….check and check
By the time you’ve figured out who is who, what is what, and how deep hate can run, you’re already hooked, and you may as well give up the fight and prepare yourself for an all-nighter!
Can’t say I didn’t warn you.
Tomas and Corrine went to school together with Corrine being really a nobody by that not one of the popular girls just went to school and did her thing until Tomas took notice and of course he was one of the popular boys. After, going out for a while Tomas’s mom pass away forcing him to go live with his Bratva father leaving Corrine to wonder what happened and to deal with a broken heart and figuring out how to move on which she does. Tomas is being told he will marry another Bratva don’s daughter even though he doesn’t know her, nor does he want to marry her, but he never forgot the girl from high school who stole his heart. Fast forward Corrine is about to get married to a man who will make due she isn’t really in love with him but he is the safe bet or so she thinks but Tomas is back in town to do a job for his father. Their wedding night suite was mixed up they were supposed to get the honeymoon suite but instead was given the presidential suite where there was suppose to be an Italian Mafia which was target and that is why Tomas was there to begin with but once he knows who is really in that suite and who she is married to he can’t and won’t allow it to go that way seeing as Alvin the man she was suppose to marry brought BDSM items without consulting Corrine knowledge so how will this play out is the question and can they find a way to be happy with one another?
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Yeah, this is NOT that book #sorrynotsorry!
The addition starts with the book cover….yeah…yeah…yeah don’t judge a book by its cover they say ….well we all do it and this one here it is the scratch to your itch or better yet the filling to your oreos! Speaking of filling…..wait, that’s for later. Within the first chapters you get the panoramic view of whom you’re dealing with!
Bad boy….check
Bod boy’s crazy brother/friend…check
Bad boy’s Kryptonie…check ….check and check
By the time you’ve figured out who is who, what is what, and how deep hate can run, you’re already hooked, and you may as well give up the fight and prepare yourself for an all-nighter!
Can’t say I didn’t warn you.
Tomas and Corrine went to school together with Corrine being really a nobody by that not one of the popular girls just went to school and did her thing until Tomas took notice and of course he was one of the popular boys. After, going out for a while Tomas’s mom pass away forcing him to go live with his Bratva father leaving Corrine to wonder what happened and to deal with a broken heart and figuring out how to move on which she does. Tomas is being told he will marry another Bratva don’s daughter even though he doesn’t know her, nor does he want to marry her, but he never forgot the girl from high school who stole his heart. Fast forward Corrine is about to get married to a man who will make due she isn’t really in love with him but he is the safe bet or so she thinks but Tomas is back in town to do a job for his father. Their wedding night suite was mixed up they were supposed to get the honeymoon suite but instead was given the presidential suite where there was suppose to be an Italian Mafia which was target and that is why Tomas was there to begin with but once he knows who is really in that suite and who she is married to he can’t and won’t allow it to go that way seeing as Alvin the man she was suppose to marry brought BDSM items without consulting Corrine knowledge so how will this play out is the question and can they find a way to be happy with one another?
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 5, 2020
Scars He Gave Me
A Second Chance Dark Mafia Romance
Book 2 of the Bratva Crime Syndicate Trilogy
Written by: Nicole Fox
Tomas Dubrovsky and Corinne O’Shea were high school sweethearts, until the night that Tomas’s mother was rushed to the hospital. She told him a long held secret just before she passed away. Shortly after that he told Corinne he was leaving and that was the first scar he gave her.
Their reunion happens ten years after that night, oddly on another night that should have been a happy night for Corinne, but ends up with her brand new hours old husband trying to tie her to a bed, with Tomas hiding in their closet, waiting for the Italians coming to pick a bag of money hidden in the hotel room.
Tomas manages to get her (uck) husband off her in time to hopefully hide from the Italians, but, like all of Tomas’s plans that night, their hiding spot is given up and Tomas ends up killing the Italians and pistol whipping her husband. Another scar being added to Corrine’s count.
This also is where Nicole Fox starts to take readers through this wonderful labyrinth of the Dubrovsky Bratva, the war with the Italian Roberto Totti and the pack made by Tomas’s father and Kuznetsov Bratva.
It doesn’t take long for Tomas and Corrie (his nick name for her) to fall back into old habits. There is smoke and fire in parts of that labyrinth, the combustible sexual attraction that continues to throw them together. The longer they are in hiding together the more the heat grows and then draws them in into the fire as they become lovers again.
While that happens there is all sorts of crazy breaking lose and the stakes get higher every day. And who is the ghost who has hacked into the Dubrovsky computer system?
This story moves quickly, who can be trusted, who is the one running the computer program that is being used against the Dubrovsky family, can Corrie convince them to let them help find who is doing this?
Nicole Fox has give readers another well told, Bratva story with wonderful characters, a Bratva war and the worst of Corrie’s scars finally coming out for all to hear. With the fast moving story and characters you are rooting for, it will either
A Second Chance Dark Mafia Romance
Book 2 of the Bratva Crime Syndicate Trilogy
Written by: Nicole Fox
Tomas Dubrovsky and Corinne O’Shea were high school sweethearts, until the night that Tomas’s mother was rushed to the hospital. She told him a long held secret just before she passed away. Shortly after that he told Corinne he was leaving and that was the first scar he gave her.
Their reunion happens ten years after that night, oddly on another night that should have been a happy night for Corinne, but ends up with her brand new hours old husband trying to tie her to a bed, with Tomas hiding in their closet, waiting for the Italians coming to pick a bag of money hidden in the hotel room.
Tomas manages to get her (uck) husband off her in time to hopefully hide from the Italians, but, like all of Tomas’s plans that night, their hiding spot is given up and Tomas ends up killing the Italians and pistol whipping her husband. Another scar being added to Corrine’s count.
This also is where Nicole Fox starts to take readers through this wonderful labyrinth of the Dubrovsky Bratva, the war with the Italian Roberto Totti and the pack made by Tomas’s father and Kuznetsov Bratva.
It doesn’t take long for Tomas and Corrie (his nick name for her) to fall back into old habits. There is smoke and fire in parts of that labyrinth, the combustible sexual attraction that continues to throw them together. The longer they are in hiding together the more the heat grows and then draws them in into the fire as they become lovers again.
While that happens there is all sorts of crazy breaking lose and the stakes get higher every day. And who is the ghost who has hacked into the Dubrovsky computer system?
This story moves quickly, who can be trusted, who is the one running the computer program that is being used against the Dubrovsky family, can Corrie convince them to let them help find who is doing this?
Nicole Fox has give readers another well told, Bratva story with wonderful characters, a Bratva war and the worst of Corrie’s scars finally coming out for all to hear. With the fast moving story and characters you are rooting for, it will either
November 6, 2020
Put this page turner your must read list. The story line is gripping, intriguing and captivates you from the start. The characters are well written, compelling and exciting with betrayals close to home and intense chemistry between second chance lovers Corinne and Tomas.
Tomas saves Corinne on her wedding night from Alvin her husband who in a weird twist of fate has a very, very dark secret and had plans to hurt Corinne. Unfortunately even though forced to spend time together, Corinne is still hung up on the past and when Tomas secret comes out, can she forgive him and give their relationship a chance? Both characters are strong, well developed and Corinne lets her independent, feisty and opinionated side that takes no nonsense come out a few times. While she still loves him, she is not blind to his faults and actually has plenty to say on it, especially when he crosses a line.
Tomas loves to rile her up, to see her reaction and to try and keep some separation between them as he is fighting his love and attraction to her. From the moment he saves her, his main goal is to keep her safe and protected.
In true mafia style we have betrayals, secrets, a mafia war, retribution, revenge, blood and death. The supporting characters are well developed and supports and elevates the plot. Fantastic Read
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Tomas saves Corinne on her wedding night from Alvin her husband who in a weird twist of fate has a very, very dark secret and had plans to hurt Corinne. Unfortunately even though forced to spend time together, Corinne is still hung up on the past and when Tomas secret comes out, can she forgive him and give their relationship a chance? Both characters are strong, well developed and Corinne lets her independent, feisty and opinionated side that takes no nonsense come out a few times. While she still loves him, she is not blind to his faults and actually has plenty to say on it, especially when he crosses a line.
Tomas loves to rile her up, to see her reaction and to try and keep some separation between them as he is fighting his love and attraction to her. From the moment he saves her, his main goal is to keep her safe and protected.
In true mafia style we have betrayals, secrets, a mafia war, retribution, revenge, blood and death. The supporting characters are well developed and supports and elevates the plot. Fantastic Read
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 10, 2020
Tomas is the heir to the Dubrovsky Bratva. Upon his mother's death, he learned who his dad was and sought him out. He was trained, groomed and moved up the ranks!! As things are heating up and he is set to join forces by marriage while he is also trying to take out the Italian threat, he finds someone he never thought he would see again...his Corinne!!! Can he keep his cool, please his father and his men but also protect Corinne?!? What about the feelings that rush back, can he hide them away and does he want to?
After Tommy left, Corinne wemt to college and kept doing what she loved...coding and computer work!! She had a nice life, no surprises, she was marrying Alvin, a safe bet. But when they wedding night comes and Alvin shows his true colors, she is scared and alone with a monster that is now her husband...until Tommy saves the day. But the fun is only beginning and Corinne is finding out who Tomas is now. Can she handle Tomas? Will she trust him with her heart again?
This is the second story in the Bratva series and you won't be disappointed!! This story has everything from love, lust, romance, lies, deception, mystery, betrayal and so much more. I can't wait for more in the series and by this author. I received an ARC of this book from the author.
After Tommy left, Corinne wemt to college and kept doing what she loved...coding and computer work!! She had a nice life, no surprises, she was marrying Alvin, a safe bet. But when they wedding night comes and Alvin shows his true colors, she is scared and alone with a monster that is now her husband...until Tommy saves the day. But the fun is only beginning and Corinne is finding out who Tomas is now. Can she handle Tomas? Will she trust him with her heart again?
This is the second story in the Bratva series and you won't be disappointed!! This story has everything from love, lust, romance, lies, deception, mystery, betrayal and so much more. I can't wait for more in the series and by this author. I received an ARC of this book from the author.
November 6, 2020
I received an Advanced Reader Copy from BookSprout for an honest and voluntary review
This is a second chance dark mafia romance 🖤 This story really held my attention!! There is so much action, and so many surprises, it’s very hard to put this book down!! Your heart really breaks for Corrine and everything she has been through. Her and Tomas have amazing chemistry 🔥🔥🔥 Both of these characters are very likable!! Tomas doesn’t really have a choice in the situation he is thrown into either, being his father’s only heir in the Dubrovsky Bratva. Both characters are each facing the fallouts of their no choice circumstances. I highly recommend this book!!
Tomas and Corrine are high school sweethearts ♥️ They both plan on spending the rest of their lives together. Unfortunately, life changes for Tomas when he turns 18, and his mother dies. He finds out whom the father he has never met is. He has no choice but to leave the love of his life behind, due to an arranged marriage. Corrine, who is heartbroken, moves on with someone else. On her wedding night, Corrine witnesses an event, involving her new husband. Tomas who is there, saves Corrine, and she falls under his protection.....
This is a second chance dark mafia romance 🖤 This story really held my attention!! There is so much action, and so many surprises, it’s very hard to put this book down!! Your heart really breaks for Corrine and everything she has been through. Her and Tomas have amazing chemistry 🔥🔥🔥 Both of these characters are very likable!! Tomas doesn’t really have a choice in the situation he is thrown into either, being his father’s only heir in the Dubrovsky Bratva. Both characters are each facing the fallouts of their no choice circumstances. I highly recommend this book!!
Tomas and Corrine are high school sweethearts ♥️ They both plan on spending the rest of their lives together. Unfortunately, life changes for Tomas when he turns 18, and his mother dies. He finds out whom the father he has never met is. He has no choice but to leave the love of his life behind, due to an arranged marriage. Corrine, who is heartbroken, moves on with someone else. On her wedding night, Corrine witnesses an event, involving her new husband. Tomas who is there, saves Corrine, and she falls under his protection.....
November 7, 2020
I received an ARC from the author thru Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving my review. This book is about two people that regardless of time or circumstance fate is going to see them finally be together. Young lovers are separated by Tomas leaving. Corrine never gets over this heartbreak but goes on with her life. She marries and Tomas must save her from him. Fate might have put him where she needed him but now Corrine back close to the man she hates to love. This is a full blown mafia romance with plenty of darkness, secrets, suspense, danger, lies, drama and a couple of twists you will not see coming. Corinne and Tomas have a connection between them that full of emotions. Hers ranges from hate to lust to love. He realizes that she has always been his and he protects what is his. Now that they are thrown together, they will both have to find a way to fight thru it all to have their happy ending. I thought the characters in the story were well written. The storyline was gripping and emotional.
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.
November 8, 2020
Right about of dark, gritty, mafia and romance. Kept my attention right from the start and left with a HEA. Action packed, steamy, intense and unforgettable.
10 years between being together will bring out the emotions for Corrie because the last time she saw Tomas he was spitting mad about his mom and blaming Corrie of her selfishness to keep him in her bed and not with his mother. Corrie also never told him her news she wanted to tell him. 10 years later when these two see each other for the first time, Tomas was zipping out of the hotel closet attacking her new husband who just threatened to rape her with an elephant truck size dildo on their wedding night. Corrie had her memories flash before her eyes when finding a man that looked like Tomas but older with a gun in his hand, pistol whipping her husband. After that their lives are changed and feeling that we’re locked away behind caged hearts are fighting to become open once more. Two stubborn people will face life and death to fight for their love or die.
There is another woman for Tomas behind Corrie’s back, a fiancée of sorts but no cheating really since they were never intimate, could be a tigger for some.
10 years between being together will bring out the emotions for Corrie because the last time she saw Tomas he was spitting mad about his mom and blaming Corrie of her selfishness to keep him in her bed and not with his mother. Corrie also never told him her news she wanted to tell him. 10 years later when these two see each other for the first time, Tomas was zipping out of the hotel closet attacking her new husband who just threatened to rape her with an elephant truck size dildo on their wedding night. Corrie had her memories flash before her eyes when finding a man that looked like Tomas but older with a gun in his hand, pistol whipping her husband. After that their lives are changed and feeling that we’re locked away behind caged hearts are fighting to become open once more. Two stubborn people will face life and death to fight for their love or die.
There is another woman for Tomas behind Corrie’s back, a fiancée of sorts but no cheating really since they were never intimate, could be a tigger for some.
February 11, 2021
Tomas and Corinne were high school sweethearts who were madly in love with a future together ahead of them. Until the night that Tomas lost his mother and he walked out of her life for good, breaking her heart in the process. They don’t see each other again until her wedding night where he new groom attempts to use some seriously heavy duty bdsm equipment that she definitely has not agreed to. Tomas not only rescues her but kills two Italian mobsters in the process. That’s when she discovers that Tomas is Bratva. He kills when he needs to and that’s a lifestyle that Corinne just doesn’t sit well with her, despite her attraction to the man he is now.
She is a talented computer coder helping create programs for the company she works for. When both her personal life as well as her work collide, Corinne has to decide if she can come to terms with everything facing her...
Excellent from start to end. Really well written with both of the characters being twisted inside out between what’s right and what feels right. But their history is what makes them a unique unit that may be able to fight all of the forces against them.
Loved it.
She is a talented computer coder helping create programs for the company she works for. When both her personal life as well as her work collide, Corinne has to decide if she can come to terms with everything facing her...
Excellent from start to end. Really well written with both of the characters being twisted inside out between what’s right and what feels right. But their history is what makes them a unique unit that may be able to fight all of the forces against them.
Loved it.
November 7, 2020
The chemistry between them was just as powerful ten years later!
by sewsummore
I found this book an exciting mafia read that was full of drama, danger, and suspense. Tomas and Corrine were high school sweethearts, but their romance ended when his mother died, and he reconnected with the father he thought had died when he was a baby. They met again, and the chemistry between them was just as powerful ten years later. Still, Tomas was the son of the Bratva head in Atlanta and engaged to marry the daughter of another Bratva leader in an arranged marriage. However, this did not prevent him from coming to Corrine's aid when she becomes wanted by the Italian mafia. This book was an absorbing read. Tomas realizes that he cannot marry the Bratva Princess. His father is killed in retaliation, and Corrine is abducted. What happens next is dramatic and dangerous, but you will have to read the book to find out how their story ends.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
by sewsummore
I found this book an exciting mafia read that was full of drama, danger, and suspense. Tomas and Corrine were high school sweethearts, but their romance ended when his mother died, and he reconnected with the father he thought had died when he was a baby. They met again, and the chemistry between them was just as powerful ten years later. Still, Tomas was the son of the Bratva head in Atlanta and engaged to marry the daughter of another Bratva leader in an arranged marriage. However, this did not prevent him from coming to Corrine's aid when she becomes wanted by the Italian mafia. This book was an absorbing read. Tomas realizes that he cannot marry the Bratva Princess. His father is killed in retaliation, and Corrine is abducted. What happens next is dramatic and dangerous, but you will have to read the book to find out how their story ends.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
November 8, 2020
Unputadownable describes this series from the mafia queen herself Nicole Fox. A fast paced second chance romance with plenty of twists and turns, suspense, secrets and lies and betrayal to the Max with just a slight touch of humour thrown into the mix. Corinne never really got over her first true love Tomas after he upt and walked out of her life just when she needed him the most, it’s only now ten years later she is actually ready to move on with her life but she never expected her wedding day to end up the disaster it did and Tomas an assassin for the mafia never expected that Corinne would renter his life in the manner she does. The sexual chemistry is undeniable, but what is Tomas hiding?? Is Corinne on course for another heartache?? Both Tomas and Corinne want there HEA but the hidden forces are working against them, who will succeed?? Reading this book will tell you all you need to know, you sure won’t be disappointed. I was given this as an ARC by the author in exchange for a voluntary honest review which I was totally happy to provide.
July 4, 2025
Tomas and Corinne's Story
This is a fun book and highly recommended.
Tomas Dubrovsky is the heir to the Dubrovsky Bratva family. He was raised by his mother away from his father's domain, with her lying to Tomas that he was dead until her deathbed. He left his prior life immediately at 18 to reunite with his father.
Corinne O'Shea was the love of Tomas' life before he left town to join his father and learn to his way of life. She was heartbroken and has held a grudge against him for 10 years, which is where the book begins.
The Dubrovsky Bratva is at war with the Italian mob. There is a tentative merger with another Bratva family, contingent upon Tomas marrying the daughter of the other family.
Tomas and Corinne meet in a freak accident of switched rooms, a twisted wedding night and husband, a botched assassination, and stolen mob money.
The story gets more convoluted and entertaining from there. There is a lot of violence, sex, cyber warfare, and betrayal, although their love for each other is stronger than all the adversity.
This is a fun book and highly recommended.
Tomas Dubrovsky is the heir to the Dubrovsky Bratva family. He was raised by his mother away from his father's domain, with her lying to Tomas that he was dead until her deathbed. He left his prior life immediately at 18 to reunite with his father.
Corinne O'Shea was the love of Tomas' life before he left town to join his father and learn to his way of life. She was heartbroken and has held a grudge against him for 10 years, which is where the book begins.
The Dubrovsky Bratva is at war with the Italian mob. There is a tentative merger with another Bratva family, contingent upon Tomas marrying the daughter of the other family.
Tomas and Corinne meet in a freak accident of switched rooms, a twisted wedding night and husband, a botched assassination, and stolen mob money.
The story gets more convoluted and entertaining from there. There is a lot of violence, sex, cyber warfare, and betrayal, although their love for each other is stronger than all the adversity.
November 5, 2020
Tomas and Corrine were lovers years ago until he left her broken hearted. Corrine went off to college and became a computer whiz while Tomas went to live and work with his father Bogan Dubrovsky a mafia don. Now Tomas is on the path to taking over for his father and Corrine is up for a promotion on her job until…………. Fate throws Tomas and Corrine together again on her honeymoon night! Who would have ever guessed Alvin, the grooms dark secret? The one Tomas saved Corrine from but in doing so brought her to the Italian mafia’s attention. Now it’s up to him to keep her safe and it’s up to her to save his business. They must save each other! What could be more delicious then helping each other between the passionate sessions they can’t resist? Will they be able to defeat the Italians and find their HEA at last? Loved this ARC by Nicole Fox and can’t wait for the next book of hers.
November 7, 2020
Nicole Fox has done it again! Tomas and Corrine were head over heels in love as teenagers, until Tomas's mother died and he felt guilty for not being there for her and shifted that blame onto Corrine. Before his mother passed, he discovered that his father was the head of Dubrovsky Bratva, so after she died, he decided to seek him out and left Corrine without a word. A lot has happened to each of them in the 10 years that have passed, and they are very different people. When they are thrown together again, can they overcome the pain of betrayal, loss, and who they have now become. I loved these two character, they are well developed, compelling, and their chemistry is undeniable. The story is fast paced, has great twists and turns, intense emotional surprises, and steam, lots of steam. Nicole Fox has never disappointed me and this was one of her best!
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
November 12, 2020
5 STARS for Scars He Gave Me : A second Chance Dark Mafia Romance
ARC received from Booksprout and author in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed are my own and have not been influenced in any way.
Ms Fox does an AMAZING job writing in the mafia genre !!! She is by far one of my favorite / go to authors.
There is a lot to love ❤️ about Scars He Gave Me ...
Loved the book cover and could definitely picture Tomas and Corinne
Fast paced storyline with great characters
Suspense
Family drama
Sizzling chemistry
HEA with a great epilogue
This book might even leave you with some scars of your own as it’s pretty intense. I know the sign of a GREAT read for me is not wanting to see THE END. Tomas and Corinne stay with you for sure !!
Highly recommend this book and any mafia setting romance by this author ! Loved it !!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
ARC received from Booksprout and author in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed are my own and have not been influenced in any way.
Ms Fox does an AMAZING job writing in the mafia genre !!! She is by far one of my favorite / go to authors.
There is a lot to love ❤️ about Scars He Gave Me ...
Loved the book cover and could definitely picture Tomas and Corinne
Fast paced storyline with great characters
Suspense
Family drama
Sizzling chemistry
HEA with a great epilogue
This book might even leave you with some scars of your own as it’s pretty intense. I know the sign of a GREAT read for me is not wanting to see THE END. Tomas and Corinne stay with you for sure !!
Highly recommend this book and any mafia setting romance by this author ! Loved it !!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 5, 2020
I loved Tommy and Corrie's story! I've read a bunch of Nicole Fox's books and I think this one was the most emotional. You could really feel the push and pull of their feelings, whether they should pursue each other again or just walk away. I really loved that as I love angst! Corrie was a great, strong character. I loved her take no crap attitude. You could really feel her conflicting emotions, which anyone would have in her position. Tomas was a good alpha character and they had hot chemistry! As always with Nicole Fox books it was beautifully written and keeps you on the edge of your seat right up till the very end. A very interesting and intriguing story line that you don't see coming. Highly recommend, whether you like Mafia or not you will enjoy this book!
Voluntary review of an ARC
Voluntary review of an ARC
November 5, 2020
Gripping, enticing and captivating ! Tomas and Corinne’s story is filled with passion and suspense. They were young and in love when Tomas left Corinne to find his father. A chance encounter with Tomas puts Corinne in danger. Tomas is Russian Bratva and the Italians now have Corinne in their sights after Tomas interrupts Corinne on her wedding night. It’s a case of being at the wrong place at the wrong time, unless...Corrine stills holds a grudge and isn’t very happy about the fact she will need to lay low with Tomas until he can solve the Italian dilemma. When feelings resurface and the flame of passion is stroked Tomas and Corinne’s need and love for one another is scorching! Will he forsake his love for Corinne or betray his father’s wishes? One thing is for sure Tomas will do everything to protect his first and only love.
Powerfully intense and beautifully written Nicole❣️🔥❤️
Powerfully intense and beautifully written Nicole❣️🔥❤️
November 7, 2020
Another great read by this author
Well hold on tight for a dark and wild ride when you read this book. Scars He Gave Me is the second book in the Bratva Crime Syndicate and is the story of Tomas and Corinne. Their story is another dark, intense and amazing Mafia story by Nicole Fox. This author has a writing and story-telling style that I love as she is able to immerse the reader into a world you can get easily lost in. The characters are well developed and have a depth of emotion which is explained and you can connect with. Not everyone is as they seem which you learn over time and keeps you engaged with the story.
I really enjoyed this story and would recommend it to other readers who like a good Mafia romance, slightly dark but not a bottomless black-hole.
I received a copy of this book and am leaving my honest review. My opinions are all my own.
Well hold on tight for a dark and wild ride when you read this book. Scars He Gave Me is the second book in the Bratva Crime Syndicate and is the story of Tomas and Corinne. Their story is another dark, intense and amazing Mafia story by Nicole Fox. This author has a writing and story-telling style that I love as she is able to immerse the reader into a world you can get easily lost in. The characters are well developed and have a depth of emotion which is explained and you can connect with. Not everyone is as they seem which you learn over time and keeps you engaged with the story.
I really enjoyed this story and would recommend it to other readers who like a good Mafia romance, slightly dark but not a bottomless black-hole.
I received a copy of this book and am leaving my honest review. My opinions are all my own.
November 7, 2020
This is the 2nd book in this amazing series. Tomas and Corrie met in high school and were dating for 2-years, until one fateful night when he leaves a heartbroken Corrie behind. Now 10-years later they reconnect again, when Tomas has joined the ranks of his father’s Bratva and is now his assassin, and when there is a hotel room mix-up, and Tomas is hiding in the closet waiting for the Italians to arrive, but instead he witnesses Corrie being tied up by her new husband, and comes to her rescue. This is a well written flawless story which has combustible chemistry, and is a fast-paced read, with secrets, betrayal, retribution, revenge, violence, and love. I was hooked and intrigued throughout this addictive page turner, and I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I recommend for all.
November 5, 2020
Tomas and Corinne were childhood sweethearts and had planned their lives until the day Tomas leaves without even a goodbye, 10 years had gone by where Corinne had tried to put Tomas behind her and was finally moving on getting married and then Tomas is back. Tomas should know Corinne wouldnt wait forever and seeing her with another made him crazy, when Tomas protects Corinne its the start of something that should have never ended. but can Corinne look past the hurt of he past and have a future with Tomas or is their other reasons she should stay away from him. A well written romance with twist, turns suspense, betrayal, heartache, desires, second chances and more!
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.
November 5, 2020
This story is amazing. It bring us Tomas, or Tommy, and Corrine, or Corri. They were school sweethearts, until Tomas up and left. It broke Corrine's heart. Ten years later, much has changed, and Tomas is now part of the Bratva. Fate intervenes as Tomas finds himself in the same room as Corrine on her wedding night to a man Corrine doesn't deserve. He "saves" her, but in doing so puts them both in danger. As much as they want to deny their feelings, they both realize that is still as strong as before. Will they get their HEA now, or will family commitments break them apart again? Ms. Fox writes excellent Bratva/Mafia romances. I highly recommend this book. I did receive an arc for an honest review.
November 7, 2020
Tomas and Corrine had their future all planned. Then Tomas disappeared. He broke Corrine’s Heart.
Tomas joined the Bratva. But he never forgot the girl he left behind. Corrine moved on but never got over the hurt of Tomas leaving...
10 years later neither could be more surprise when Tomas shows up in Corrine’s hotel room on her wedding night. Her new husband turns out to be an abusive jerk. Tomas only has one thought to save the woman that still owns his heart. With a target now on her back she’s forced to follow Tomas.
As old feelings begin to surface and the heat between them gets hotter. Tomas will stop at nothing to protect the woman he’s always loved.
“I voluntarily received this arc book for an honest review”
Tomas joined the Bratva. But he never forgot the girl he left behind. Corrine moved on but never got over the hurt of Tomas leaving...
10 years later neither could be more surprise when Tomas shows up in Corrine’s hotel room on her wedding night. Her new husband turns out to be an abusive jerk. Tomas only has one thought to save the woman that still owns his heart. With a target now on her back she’s forced to follow Tomas.
As old feelings begin to surface and the heat between them gets hotter. Tomas will stop at nothing to protect the woman he’s always loved.
“I voluntarily received this arc book for an honest review”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 9, 2020
Thomas and Corinne were high school sweethearts so when his mum died he went to live with his Russia father. Thomas was set up with arranged marriage. His father gave him a job to handle. Corinne and Alvin went back to the hotel after the wedding, Alvin grabbed Corinne and handcuffed her to the bed she screamed, Thomas was hiding in the wardrobe and thought he was hearing things because it sounded like Corinne, as soon as he realized that it was Corinne he came out of hiding and killed Alvin and his two goons and rescued Corinne. After ten years of not knowing if Thomas was alive then to jump out of a wardrobe was a shock. Can they mend their hearts or will it remain broken for good.
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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