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Molotov Obsession #1
Devil’s Lair
Live-in tutor wanted for four-year-old. Must be willing to relocate to a remote mountain estate. $3K/week cash.
On the run from ruthless killers, I’m down to ten bucks in my wallet and a half-tank of gas in my ancient car when I spot the ad. The job sounds like the answer to my prayers, but there’s a catch. The child’s father is the most beautiful, most dangerous man I’ve ever met.
Darkly seductive and filthy rich, Nikolai Molotov is a tantalizing mystery, a lethally alluring contradiction. Bruised knuckles and tailored suits, tender endearments and dirty promises—my new employer draws me in like a magnet, even as my instincts scream for me to run. I should’ve heeded them… because I’m not the only one with secrets.
My safe haven just might be the devil’s lair, and once he’s claimed me, it will be too late to run.
On the run from ruthless killers, I’m down to ten bucks in my wallet and a half-tank of gas in my ancient car when I spot the ad. The job sounds like the answer to my prayers, but there’s a catch. The child’s father is the most beautiful, most dangerous man I’ve ever met.
Darkly seductive and filthy rich, Nikolai Molotov is a tantalizing mystery, a lethally alluring contradiction. Bruised knuckles and tailored suits, tender endearments and dirty promises—my new employer draws me in like a magnet, even as my instincts scream for me to run. I should’ve heeded them… because I’m not the only one with secrets.
My safe haven just might be the devil’s lair, and once he’s claimed me, it will be too late to run.
344 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 13, 2021
About the author
Anna Zaires
144 books7,985 followersAnna Zaires fell in love with books at the age of five, when her grandmother taught her to read. She wrote her first story shortly thereafter. Since then, she has always lived partially in a fantasy world where the only limits were those of her imagination. Currently residing in Florida, Anna is happily married to Dima Zales (a science fiction and fantasy author) and closely collaborates with him on all their works.
After graduating from the University of Chicago with a degree in Economics, Anna spent eight years on Wall Street analyzing stocks and writing research reports. In 2013, she became a full-time author, pursuing her lifelong dream of writing romance novels.
Dima Zales is the love of her life and a huge inspiration in all aspects of her writing. Every book Anna writes is a product of their unique collaborative process.
In addition to reading and writing, Anna enjoys drinking tea (coconut oolong, anyone?), watching addictive TV shows, and discussing book ideas during long walks with her amazing husband.
She loves hearing from her readers, so please don't hesitate to contact her through her website or connect with her on Facebook, where she hangs out way too often. Also, please visit her husband and collaborator, Dima Zales, at www.dimazales.com and check out their fantasy & science fiction books.
After graduating from the University of Chicago with a degree in Economics, Anna spent eight years on Wall Street analyzing stocks and writing research reports. In 2013, she became a full-time author, pursuing her lifelong dream of writing romance novels.
Dima Zales is the love of her life and a huge inspiration in all aspects of her writing. Every book Anna writes is a product of their unique collaborative process.
In addition to reading and writing, Anna enjoys drinking tea (coconut oolong, anyone?), watching addictive TV shows, and discussing book ideas during long walks with her amazing husband.
She loves hearing from her readers, so please don't hesitate to contact her through her website or connect with her on Facebook, where she hangs out way too often. Also, please visit her husband and collaborator, Dima Zales, at www.dimazales.com and check out their fantasy & science fiction books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 951 reviews
April 5, 2021
2 - 2.5 Stars
I LOVE Anna Zaires and have never given anything by her less than four stars.
Sadly, I just didn't love this one. I found Nikolai to be somewhat bland and Chloe somewhat immature. Her mysterious backstory did nothing for me, unfortunately, and I felt bored by her in general.
Also, there was definitely some insta-love happening here...after less than a week of very limited interaction, both Nikolai and Chloe's inner thoughts contained terms like "fated" and "predestined" and I just wasn't feeling that with them at ALL.
I am aware that many previous AZ novels have had the H very obsessed, very soon...but there is a tangible difference between possessive "I want to own you" obsession and OMG we are meant to be together forever and ever. At least, there is to me.
I am super bummed this one didn't work for me and I legit feel badly about rating it so low; however, that's how I feel about it at the moment.
I am hoping that book two makes all the difference.
***ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review***
I LOVE Anna Zaires and have never given anything by her less than four stars.
Sadly, I just didn't love this one. I found Nikolai to be somewhat bland and Chloe somewhat immature. Her mysterious backstory did nothing for me, unfortunately, and I felt bored by her in general.
Also, there was definitely some insta-love happening here...after less than a week of very limited interaction, both Nikolai and Chloe's inner thoughts contained terms like "fated" and "predestined" and I just wasn't feeling that with them at ALL.
I am aware that many previous AZ novels have had the H very obsessed, very soon...but there is a tangible difference between possessive "I want to own you" obsession and OMG we are meant to be together forever and ever. At least, there is to me.
I am super bummed this one didn't work for me and I legit feel badly about rating it so low; however, that's how I feel about it at the moment.
I am hoping that book two makes all the difference.
***ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review***
April 28, 2021
***4.5 STARS***
I have been anticipating this book for months. Anna Zaires writes one hell of a dark romance and I enjoyed this one too.
Chloe is running from assassins and she makes her way cross country to Idaho. There she finds an advertisement for a tutor. She feels that this will be perfect for her. She applies and when she goes to the interview she is swept away by the mesmerizing eyes of Nickolai.
Nickolai is mysterious. The reader doesn’t know why he is living in the wilderness mountains alone. But he has a son in need of a tutor. He suspects Chloe is running from something but his attraction to her is immediate and he hires her. He is all alpha and possessive.
I loved the sexual tension between Chloe and Nickolai but it was almost like a slow burn as far as the sex scenes. I’m looking forward to finding out what happens with them. I don’t like the cliffhanger but will just have to wait another month.
I have been anticipating this book for months. Anna Zaires writes one hell of a dark romance and I enjoyed this one too.
Chloe is running from assassins and she makes her way cross country to Idaho. There she finds an advertisement for a tutor. She feels that this will be perfect for her. She applies and when she goes to the interview she is swept away by the mesmerizing eyes of Nickolai.
Nickolai is mysterious. The reader doesn’t know why he is living in the wilderness mountains alone. But he has a son in need of a tutor. He suspects Chloe is running from something but his attraction to her is immediate and he hires her. He is all alpha and possessive.
I loved the sexual tension between Chloe and Nickolai but it was almost like a slow burn as far as the sex scenes. I’m looking forward to finding out what happens with them. I don’t like the cliffhanger but will just have to wait another month.
April 18, 2021
2.5 stars
ok this wasnt as hot as the cover.
1. insta love & insta lust
the MCs fell in love in under a week with minimal interactions most of which only included: them staring at each other, stealing glances across the dining room table, and admiring each others physiques.
2. the MCs being all horny for each other ALL THE TIME including when they were in the presence of the Hs son which was not okay for me most of all considering the little kid was THE reason i gave this a go in the first place. #JusticeForSlava
3. wonky characterisations
4. mystery was pretty legit albeit a little dragged (not in a fun and suspenseful typa way), but romance was clearly dead here. unless, youre someone who can get off on all the insta-ness and your MCs being as bland as unseasoned spaghetti.
im not bashing the book, im stating #facts because despite it all i enjoyed it—just couldnt quite hold back the cringing and scoffing. im okay with how the book ended, and i dont care if i read the sequel or not, but i will read it if i can get the audiobook.
(read as an audiobook)
ok this wasnt as hot as the cover.
1. insta love & insta lust
the MCs fell in love in under a week with minimal interactions most of which only included: them staring at each other, stealing glances across the dining room table, and admiring each others physiques.
2. the MCs being all horny for each other ALL THE TIME including when they were in the presence of the Hs son which was not okay for me most of all considering the little kid was THE reason i gave this a go in the first place. #JusticeForSlava
3. wonky characterisations
a H who believed him and the h were “meant for each other,” which was comical and hardly believable to me considering (i thought) he was supposed to be the bad boy all dark & edgy type. i mean, i guess it made sense to be paradoxical, but i also think it would make even more sense if he was obsessed with the h just because he was a psycho who wanted to own and possess the h—instead of for some romantic notion like fate and destiny. *scoffs*
a damsel in distress h with mysterious background who acted all sweet, naive, cute, innocent (yknow the type), AND who was being a total dumb bishhh at the end of the book—running away after being told bad things about the H. i mean, she didnt even think about her charge (my baby boy) and just bolt out the door. 😭 ALSO, the Hs sister whom i didnt understand at all whose side she was on, if she loved or hate her brother, if she shipped him with the h or not. she confused me!
4. mystery was pretty legit albeit a little dragged (not in a fun and suspenseful typa way), but romance was clearly dead here. unless, youre someone who can get off on all the insta-ness and your MCs being as bland as unseasoned spaghetti.
im not bashing the book, im stating #facts because despite it all i enjoyed it—just couldnt quite hold back the cringing and scoffing. im okay with how the book ended, and i dont care if i read the sequel or not, but i will read it if i can get the audiobook.
(read as an audiobook)
April 20, 2021
Holy. $hit. This book pulled me out of a months-long book slump. Seriously, Anna Zaires is the QUEEN when it comes to villainous love interests. Now to go read everything else of hers I haven't yet binged!
April 14, 2021
No sex scene until I was 80% in, and when it finally happened... what a letdown.
The heroine was way too gullible. She actually believed all the nonsense Alina's pot-headed-looking ass was feeding her just to get her to leave Nikolai—and it worked, by the way.
As for Nikolai, I don't buy the whole "dark and dangerous antihero" label. Side-eyes. Where? He was giving plain vanilla hero the entire time.
My biggest issue, though, was how absent he was as a father. There were barely any father-son moments, and their relationship felt like an afterthought.
The heroine was way too gullible. She actually believed all the nonsense Alina's pot-headed-looking ass was feeding her just to get her to leave Nikolai—and it worked, by the way.
As for Nikolai, I don't buy the whole "dark and dangerous antihero" label. Side-eyes. Where? He was giving plain vanilla hero the entire time.
My biggest issue, though, was how absent he was as a father. There were barely any father-son moments, and their relationship felt like an afterthought.
March 16, 2021
It’s been a while since I’ve been so engrossed by a book that I set everything else aside to read. I absolutely could not put Devil’s Lair down and fell crazy in love with Nikolai. This big, super-sexy Russian mobster is hands-down my new favorite Anna Zaires anti-hero. I’m going to need book 2 like yesterday!
December 2, 2021
2. 5 Stars
Eh. I was pretty bored which I didn't expect from a Anna Z book. Legit nothing happened until the very end. It was super repetitive and insta love and too much thinking and saying but not doing.
I also didn't really care for either MCs. I expected more out of the hero, but he just ended up a bit bland and maybe a little too sweet😅. The heroine was immature and unprofessional and I couldn't relate to how quickly comfortable she got there, enough to smoke weed with the sister and fellow employee. It just seemed odd when her job is a nanny/tutor for a kid who she is living there for.
The plot and mysteries surrounding then both also dragged on too much and i just didn't care anymore.
One thing I did like was how sexually active the heroine was previously, experienced, seeing as the hero was obviously a manwhore who has pictures all over the internet of him and many ow. But it got REALLY annoying how horny the heroine is all the time. Like more so than the hero. Every night it was the same scene of her masturbating, or her talking about waking up all hot and bothered because of dreams with the hero. Like okay I get it, can we not please 🙃
Hopefully the next book is better at least 😅
Safety:
Safe
Ow drama- mentions of ow and hero's sex past. Also a few pics
No OM drama
No virgins
No cheating
Eh. I was pretty bored which I didn't expect from a Anna Z book. Legit nothing happened until the very end. It was super repetitive and insta love and too much thinking and saying but not doing.
I also didn't really care for either MCs. I expected more out of the hero, but he just ended up a bit bland and maybe a little too sweet😅. The heroine was immature and unprofessional and I couldn't relate to how quickly comfortable she got there, enough to smoke weed with the sister and fellow employee. It just seemed odd when her job is a nanny/tutor for a kid who she is living there for.
The plot and mysteries surrounding then both also dragged on too much and i just didn't care anymore.
One thing I did like was how sexually active the heroine was previously, experienced, seeing as the hero was obviously a manwhore who has pictures all over the internet of him and many ow. But it got REALLY annoying how horny the heroine is all the time. Like more so than the hero. Every night it was the same scene of her masturbating, or her talking about waking up all hot and bothered because of dreams with the hero. Like okay I get it, can we not please 🙃
Hopefully the next book is better at least 😅
Safety:
Safe
Ow drama- mentions of ow and hero's sex past. Also a few pics
No OM drama
No virgins
No cheating
April 12, 2021
So whilst I did enjoy the mystery part of this book I’m afraid I didn’t feel the pull this amazing author normally has with her couples. I found Chloe a bit bland to be honest and Nikolai not the alpha I expected. This is book one of a duet so it’s probably why I didn’t feel the sizzling chemistry I normally do with her other characters in her other books. Hopefully Nikolai’s character will also feel a bit more fleshed out and real in the next book. I am still hopeful as this author is one of the few I still have faith in!
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.
Want to Read
November 15, 2020Oh. Damn.... this cover alone is making me wanna read this 🤤🤤🔥🔥
A little secret: I’m a cover hoe. Most books I’ve read is because of the hottest covers 😁
A little secret: I’m a cover hoe. Most books I’ve read is because of the hottest covers 😁
April 9, 2021
4.75
How can we not fell for Anna Zaires' men ??!
These powerful, lethal men you should stay away from, yet you keep falling for because they might be dangerous but with their women they are caring, protective and possessive; they whorship their bodies while digging a place in their hearts....
*They are ruining me* LOL
Once again Mrs Zaires had me engrossed in the story within minutes from the start.
Chloe is on the run: someone wants her dead even she has no idea why....
Stumping on an add for a live-in-tutor in a secluded house up on the mountain it's like a sign of destiny but she doesn't know a man even more dangerous is waiting for her 😏
Nikolai Molotov, a russian "bussiness man".
Handsome, rich, dominant, he is a beast ,ready to devour you, hidden under a tailored suit.
The moment he sets his eyes on Chloe, he knows she belong to him: the attraction, the hunger for her is something he never felt before.
Sparkles fly between the two of them 🔥🔥
But both has secrets that could cause troubles, the lethal kind.
And in the midst of all that there's a sweet 4 yo boys that gonna melt your heart.
The story is fast paced with a lot of action.
The dual pov make it more enjoyable because honestly i love knowing how these men' mind works 😏😏😏
Luckily at the end there's not the big cliffhanger i thought that would have been ( it's bearable thanks God because i would have freaked out), but still i can't wait for Angel's Cage because so many things need an explanation!!
And i really hope Anna Zaires has something planned for Nikolai' brothers too....
How can we not fell for Anna Zaires' men ??!
These powerful, lethal men you should stay away from, yet you keep falling for because they might be dangerous but with their women they are caring, protective and possessive; they whorship their bodies while digging a place in their hearts....
*They are ruining me* LOL
Once again Mrs Zaires had me engrossed in the story within minutes from the start.
Chloe is on the run: someone wants her dead even she has no idea why....
Stumping on an add for a live-in-tutor in a secluded house up on the mountain it's like a sign of destiny but she doesn't know a man even more dangerous is waiting for her 😏
Nikolai Molotov, a russian "bussiness man".
Handsome, rich, dominant, he is a beast ,ready to devour you, hidden under a tailored suit.
The moment he sets his eyes on Chloe, he knows she belong to him: the attraction, the hunger for her is something he never felt before.
Sparkles fly between the two of them 🔥🔥
But both has secrets that could cause troubles, the lethal kind.
And in the midst of all that there's a sweet 4 yo boys that gonna melt your heart.
The story is fast paced with a lot of action.
The dual pov make it more enjoyable because honestly i love knowing how these men' mind works 😏😏😏
Luckily at the end there's not the big cliffhanger i thought that would have been ( it's bearable thanks God because i would have freaked out), but still i can't wait for Angel's Cage because so many things need an explanation!!
And i really hope Anna Zaires has something planned for Nikolai' brothers too....
November 13, 2020
4 solid star! Can't wait to read Angel's Cage, the conclusion of Nikolai and Chloe’s story...❤️
April 11, 2021
2.5 stars
Devil's Lair is the latest release by Anna Zaires and unfortunately one that I had a hard time finishing. While I wanted to love it I just couldn't connect with Nikolai or Chloe. The insta everything was annoying and their thoughts about intimacy with each other was ridiculous. They sounded like young adults experiencing lust for the first time. The overall story is pretty boring, all we know is that Nikolai's family is ridiculously rich and he came to the States 6 months earlier with his sister and young son. What we know for most of the story about Chloe is that she is on the run from killers who murdered her mother but she has no idea why. Now with all that said the ending was really good and some secrets were revealed and I'm definitely looking forward to the next book.
***ARC provided by Author***
Devil's Lair is the latest release by Anna Zaires and unfortunately one that I had a hard time finishing. While I wanted to love it I just couldn't connect with Nikolai or Chloe. The insta everything was annoying and their thoughts about intimacy with each other was ridiculous. They sounded like young adults experiencing lust for the first time. The overall story is pretty boring, all we know is that Nikolai's family is ridiculously rich and he came to the States 6 months earlier with his sister and young son. What we know for most of the story about Chloe is that she is on the run from killers who murdered her mother but she has no idea why. Now with all that said the ending was really good and some secrets were revealed and I'm definitely looking forward to the next book.
***ARC provided by Author***
April 18, 2021
when will authors start to deliver new mafia plots and content because we are tired of reading the same thing over and over again. 😴
January 12, 2022
Pretty good start to this duet!
I liked the set up with nanny and aloof mysterious Russian employer. She’s running for her life and he’s immediately smitten.
This book isn’t super smutty, with just one make-out scene and one sex scene toward the end, but it still held my attention. 🤷🏼♀️
The H is possessive and intense.
The h is suitably wary.
Bottom line? This was good! I’ll be moving on to the second book. Wish me luck! 🤞🏻🤞🏻 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
⚠️SAFETY SQUAD SPOILERS⚠️
- no cheating or sharing
- no OW drama - the h thinks he’s married at first but the woman turns out to be his sister
- no OM drama a
- no dubcon
- attempted sexual assault on the h by OP
- h is 23 and experienced
- H is 31 and experienced.
- condom used, not discussed at all
I liked the set up with nanny and aloof mysterious Russian employer. She’s running for her life and he’s immediately smitten.
This book isn’t super smutty, with just one make-out scene and one sex scene toward the end, but it still held my attention. 🤷🏼♀️
The H is possessive and intense.
The h is suitably wary.
Bottom line? This was good! I’ll be moving on to the second book. Wish me luck! 🤞🏻🤞🏻 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
⚠️SAFETY SQUAD SPOILERS⚠️
- no cheating or sharing
- no OW drama - the h thinks he’s married at first but the woman turns out to be his sister
- no OM drama a
- no dubcon
- attempted sexual assault on the h by OP
- h is 23 and experienced
- H is 31 and experienced.
- condom used, not discussed at all
Did Not Finish
October 22, 2021DNF 15%
I stand corrected: this was so instalust on the hero's part, I couldn't handle it. He literally just met her, she's interviewing to become his son's babysitter & tutor, she's talking to said 5-8 year old boy, and he's thinking of doing the deed.
Your child is right there. Wtf man. Went from 0-100 real quick.
Was excited for the audio (Teddy. Hamilton. Need I say more 😤), but nah. Won't torture myself.
But man, that cover is beautiful.
I stand corrected: this was so instalust on the hero's part, I couldn't handle it. He literally just met her, she's interviewing to become his son's babysitter & tutor, she's talking to said 5-8 year old boy, and he's thinking of doing the deed.
Your child is right there. Wtf man. Went from 0-100 real quick.
Was excited for the audio (Teddy. Hamilton. Need I say more 😤), but nah. Won't torture myself.
But man, that cover is beautiful.
June 16, 2023
Wayyy to insta-lusty and insta-lovey. He was literally talking about her being the other half of his soul. Like, bruh? It's been four days. It was an easy read, though, and I loved the kid, Slava, so I'm gonna give it two stars just for that.
I don't know if I'll read the next one or not, but I guess we'll see.
I don't know if I'll read the next one or not, but I guess we'll see.
April 6, 2021
ALL MY REVIEWS CAN BE FOUND ON MY BLOG: ABSTRACT BOOKS
Star Rating : 4.5 / 5 Stars
POV : Dual
Cliffhanger : Yes
Hero : Nikolai
Heroine : Chloe
Pace of the story : Moderate
Angst Rating : 4/10
Heat Rating : 5/10
Triggers Involved : Past Trauma
Plot Summary :
Chloe is running. Ever since her life got destroyed a few years ago , she has been on a run. That is until she stumbles upon an add in the newspaper. An advertisement searching for a live in tutor. Now all she needs is to get this job and she might hava chance to secure a safe place for herself.
That is until she meets the owner of the house. Nikolai is everything she should be scared of but is not. He is dark and mysterious and so freaking hot. His son is the cutest little thing ever who needs her help. Soon she sees that things are not what seem at Nikolai's home. He is hiding something big from her and it doesn't take her long to know that he might be one of monsters she has been running away from all along.
Overall Opinion :
My next dark dose from my fav author is here!! I love this book so freaking much. It wasn't as dark as Julian's book but Nikolai still had that mysterious air and personality about him like Julian. From the beginning to the end of this book, something tells me that the next book will be a tad darker, let's wait and watch!
The book was somewhere between a contemporary and dark romance read for me. Apart from Nikolai's character, the best thing that I found about this book was Slava. He was the cutest little character ever and his scenes with nikolai had me swooning so bad! They both were cute and I loved every scene in which that little boy made an appearance. Chloe was a good character too. The book was a cliff hanger and I am sure that we will get all our answers in the next book!
I would deti recommend this book to all the Anna Zaires fans. If you are reading this book , expecting to read a very dark Romance, then this one is not it but I think you guys might like this book as a light dark romance read!
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September 6, 2021
Rushing home from school after my graduation so I can celebrate with my mom only to walk in and kneel over her pool of blood. Thats not the only thing, the killers are still there. As I hide from them and barely escape I am now running from the same killers who killed the only parent I had. With the on my heels at every turn, I am desperate for anything. Hungry and in my beat up Corolla with only $37 left to my name needing to decide what was my next move. So filling up my Corolla with $20 which won't get me far, I look in paper for a job and that is where I see the answer to my prayers
"Live-in tutor wanted for four-year-old. Must be willing to relocate to a remote mountain estate. $3K/week cash".
What I don't know is my new employer Nikolai Molotov seem more dangerous than the enemies that I am running from. I am now living on a fortress safe or have I just got into a new danger I am unaware of.
"Live-in tutor wanted for four-year-old. Must be willing to relocate to a remote mountain estate. $3K/week cash".
What I don't know is my new employer Nikolai Molotov seem more dangerous than the enemies that I am running from. I am now living on a fortress safe or have I just got into a new danger I am unaware of.
Read
April 14, 2021Dnf 15%
When you wait for a book so long but it does not meet the expectations..🤡🤡
When you wait for a book so long but it does not meet the expectations..🤡🤡
April 19, 2021
Audiobook: Narrators - Ava Erickson & Teddy Hamilton
This is the Gold Premier of narration! Either of these narrators alone is enough for me but put them together and it was sheer perfection. Both of their male/female voices was performed in such a way that my mind never consciously recognized that a they were doing the opposite sex’s voice - which is usually where I struggle with audiobooks. I was pulled completely into this story through the emotional depth portrayed by both Ms. Erickson and Mr. Hamilton. Loved how their work fused together so seamlessly.
This was filled with lots of dark danger and desire making it impossible to stop once I started.
Chloe captured my heart pretty quickly as she had a certain amount of innocence about her while danger was hunting her down. I love a heroine that needs rescuing and Nikolai was perfect for the job. However, there is something dark lurking within him and surrounding his life. His obsession with her was palpable and quite delicious. It kept me on the edge each time I had his point of view.
I loved the way this author wove the plotline with so many variables. Even the secondary characters are questionable as to whether I could trust them with this heroine. I was nibbling on my nails throughout this whole book. However, experiencing Slava through both Chloe’s and Nikolai’s eyes was so sweet and endearing. I can’t wait to find out how his relationship with his father is going to work out.
With a cliffhanger that had me shouting in denial at leaving me hanging as it did, I’m imagining all sorts of scenarios with this couple as well as Slava in the next book.
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
This is the Gold Premier of narration! Either of these narrators alone is enough for me but put them together and it was sheer perfection. Both of their male/female voices was performed in such a way that my mind never consciously recognized that a they were doing the opposite sex’s voice - which is usually where I struggle with audiobooks. I was pulled completely into this story through the emotional depth portrayed by both Ms. Erickson and Mr. Hamilton. Loved how their work fused together so seamlessly.
This was filled with lots of dark danger and desire making it impossible to stop once I started.
Chloe captured my heart pretty quickly as she had a certain amount of innocence about her while danger was hunting her down. I love a heroine that needs rescuing and Nikolai was perfect for the job. However, there is something dark lurking within him and surrounding his life. His obsession with her was palpable and quite delicious. It kept me on the edge each time I had his point of view.
I loved the way this author wove the plotline with so many variables. Even the secondary characters are questionable as to whether I could trust them with this heroine. I was nibbling on my nails throughout this whole book. However, experiencing Slava through both Chloe’s and Nikolai’s eyes was so sweet and endearing. I can’t wait to find out how his relationship with his father is going to work out.
With a cliffhanger that had me shouting in denial at leaving me hanging as it did, I’m imagining all sorts of scenarios with this couple as well as Slava in the next book.
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
March 24, 2021
A sexy, dangerous Molotov Cocktail.
April 14, 2021
Might have to reread Twist Me just to feel something after this 🤷
I love Anna Zaires’ books so I had high hopes for this, unfortunately it didn't work for me. This couple did not call to me like AZ couples usually do… Where was the passion, the chemistry?
The characters were very bland and generic. We get this whole first book where we could have gotten some good characterization, yet I know nothing about them. I know almost as much by the end as I did in the first chapter. The romance was also not up to par. Not only was their attraction instant (which would have been fine) but this was pretty much a case of insta-love. The Hero wasn’t obsessed with the heroine, he was in love with her after a week… Like, what?
I couldn’t care for it because there was no build up or development, it just happened. After a few awkward glances from the heroine and some advances from the Hero, they’re fated… okay.
Honestly, I was tempted to give this one star but it gets the extra star for the cute scenes between the heroine, whose name I already forgot, and the kid she’s tutoring.
I love Anna Zaires’ books so I had high hopes for this, unfortunately it didn't work for me. This couple did not call to me like AZ couples usually do… Where was the passion, the chemistry?
The characters were very bland and generic. We get this whole first book where we could have gotten some good characterization, yet I know nothing about them. I know almost as much by the end as I did in the first chapter. The romance was also not up to par. Not only was their attraction instant (which would have been fine) but this was pretty much a case of insta-love. The Hero wasn’t obsessed with the heroine, he was in love with her after a week… Like, what?
I couldn’t care for it because there was no build up or development, it just happened. After a few awkward glances from the heroine and some advances from the Hero, they’re fated… okay.
Honestly, I was tempted to give this one star but it gets the extra star for the cute scenes between the heroine, whose name I already forgot, and the kid she’s tutoring.
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April 1, 2021Holy Hotness! This book is a 5 Alarm fire! 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Chloe Emmons is running for her life. Literally. Two masked gunmen have been chasing her, running her over, and shooting at her. But why? She didn't do anything. "I'm just - just me" she says. Just a newly orphaned twenty-three year old, fleeing across the country, after arriving home from college to find death and disaster waiting for her there.
Chloe's desperate flight from her pursuers leads her to the remote mountain doorstep of a reclusive and wealthy Russian, Nikolai Molotov, in response to a Help Wanted ad for a child's tutor. It's just what she needs. She has a Bachelor degree in Education and she loves children. The pay is generous and in cash. And there's tons of security around the estate to keep out the bad guys. Wait, what?
It turns out that Chloe is exceptionally well suited for the job and bonds with Nikolai's four year old son immediately. But while she is grateful for how well things are going with little Slava, Chloe can't help but notice how gorgeous and magnetic her new employer is, and how much he appears to be obsessed with her in return. Like I said, "Holy Hotness!" There is heat and crackling energy and a nearly palpable attraction between Chloe and Nikolai throughout the entire book. It's not just isolated to the scenes where they are together. It's even there when Nikolai is watching her through his cameras ...
Anna Zaires writes the very best alpha-male, ultra-possessive anti-heroes and every tall, muscular, deletable inch of Nikolai Molotov measures up to his literary brethren. Unbeknownst to Chloe, there are dark, very dark, family secrets on both sides of her whirlwind adventure/trauma/romance. What has she gotten herself into?
Chloe, Nikolai, and Nikolai's sister Alina, are fascinating characters who quickly captured my interest, Slava is adorable, and the pacing is perfect. I finished this in less than a day and have read it twice, confirming that it is just as sultry and surprising as a re-read as it was the first time. Devil's Lair is a fabulous introduction to a whole new world Russian hotties!
Devil’s Lair is Part 1 of a duet. Nikolai and Chloe’s story concludes with Angel’s Cage.
Join me on my Bookstagram:
Chloe Emmons is running for her life. Literally. Two masked gunmen have been chasing her, running her over, and shooting at her. But why? She didn't do anything. "I'm just - just me" she says. Just a newly orphaned twenty-three year old, fleeing across the country, after arriving home from college to find death and disaster waiting for her there.
Chloe's desperate flight from her pursuers leads her to the remote mountain doorstep of a reclusive and wealthy Russian, Nikolai Molotov, in response to a Help Wanted ad for a child's tutor. It's just what she needs. She has a Bachelor degree in Education and she loves children. The pay is generous and in cash. And there's tons of security around the estate to keep out the bad guys. Wait, what?
It turns out that Chloe is exceptionally well suited for the job and bonds with Nikolai's four year old son immediately. But while she is grateful for how well things are going with little Slava, Chloe can't help but notice how gorgeous and magnetic her new employer is, and how much he appears to be obsessed with her in return. Like I said, "Holy Hotness!" There is heat and crackling energy and a nearly palpable attraction between Chloe and Nikolai throughout the entire book. It's not just isolated to the scenes where they are together. It's even there when Nikolai is watching her through his cameras ...
Anna Zaires writes the very best alpha-male, ultra-possessive anti-heroes and every tall, muscular, deletable inch of Nikolai Molotov measures up to his literary brethren. Unbeknownst to Chloe, there are dark, very dark, family secrets on both sides of her whirlwind adventure/trauma/romance. What has she gotten herself into?
Chloe, Nikolai, and Nikolai's sister Alina, are fascinating characters who quickly captured my interest, Slava is adorable, and the pacing is perfect. I finished this in less than a day and have read it twice, confirming that it is just as sultry and surprising as a re-read as it was the first time. Devil's Lair is a fabulous introduction to a whole new world Russian hotties!
Devil’s Lair is Part 1 of a duet. Nikolai and Chloe’s story concludes with Angel’s Cage.
Join me on my Bookstagram:
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April 15, 2021
3.5-4 stars. This wasn't the most amazing book I've ever read, but I did really enjoy reading it.
First off I'll say that I had no idea this wasn't a standalone and even worse that it would end on a cliffhanger😩I knew this was the first book in a series, but I just figured the next books would be about different people. As I was reading and loving this book though I did notice that while things were built up well I could tell from pretty early on that there was no way those plot elements would be satisfactorily wrapped up given how short this book felt/how quickly I was going through it. I thought this would end up being an enjoyable book, but too short to really reach it's full potential and be amazing. So now I'm feeling both grateful that I was wrong and there's more to the story and annoyed that I'll have to wait to get it.😓
All that aside... man do I love mafia books, especially Russian mafia books, they just hit different. Not only that, but we've got a single dad🥵which if you know me you know I love the single parent trope. Better yet the single dad is a broody, mysterious, dangerous Russian mobster, Nikolai, who is too emotionally inept to figure out how to bond with his adorable 4 year old son, Slava, who he loves so much, but doesn't understand and can't express?! Yes. So much yes. Can't wait to see how father and son build their relationship and how Chloe's relationship with Slava progresses as well. That shit is gonna be cute.
Then we have our heroine, Chloe, who is the epitome of a damsel in distress, which, not gonna lie, is especially fun for a mafia book where you've got a big, bad mobster ready to get all possessive and protective. The tension and attraction between Chloe and Nikolai was immediate and so hot. She's not only on the run, but hired as Slava's nanny/tutor so there's another fun trope on top of the age gap and single dad, which just makes this story even more forbidden and steamy. At the end of this book Chloe gets a little TSTL, but I'll forgive her for that. I'm excited to see how Chloe and Nikolai's dynamic changes and grows in the next book now that she's a little more clued into who Nikolai is and what the danger is that's been plaguing her the past month.
AND OH THANK GOD. Just checked and the second book comes out next month 😪*whew* I was worried I'd have a much longer wait.
First off I'll say that I had no idea this wasn't a standalone and even worse that it would end on a cliffhanger😩I knew this was the first book in a series, but I just figured the next books would be about different people. As I was reading and loving this book though I did notice that while things were built up well I could tell from pretty early on that there was no way those plot elements would be satisfactorily wrapped up given how short this book felt/how quickly I was going through it. I thought this would end up being an enjoyable book, but too short to really reach it's full potential and be amazing. So now I'm feeling both grateful that I was wrong and there's more to the story and annoyed that I'll have to wait to get it.😓
All that aside... man do I love mafia books, especially Russian mafia books, they just hit different. Not only that, but we've got a single dad🥵which if you know me you know I love the single parent trope. Better yet the single dad is a broody, mysterious, dangerous Russian mobster, Nikolai, who is too emotionally inept to figure out how to bond with his adorable 4 year old son, Slava, who he loves so much, but doesn't understand and can't express?! Yes. So much yes. Can't wait to see how father and son build their relationship and how Chloe's relationship with Slava progresses as well. That shit is gonna be cute.
Then we have our heroine, Chloe, who is the epitome of a damsel in distress, which, not gonna lie, is especially fun for a mafia book where you've got a big, bad mobster ready to get all possessive and protective. The tension and attraction between Chloe and Nikolai was immediate and so hot. She's not only on the run, but hired as Slava's nanny/tutor so there's another fun trope on top of the age gap and single dad, which just makes this story even more forbidden and steamy. At the end of this book Chloe gets a little TSTL, but I'll forgive her for that. I'm excited to see how Chloe and Nikolai's dynamic changes and grows in the next book now that she's a little more clued into who Nikolai is and what the danger is that's been plaguing her the past month.
AND OH THANK GOD. Just checked and the second book comes out next month 😪*whew* I was worried I'd have a much longer wait.
June 4, 2021
2.5 star. I never gave Anna Zaires lower than 4stars before. Her book always intense...... not this lukewarm insta love and cheesy.
April 13, 2021
Chloe Emmons is out of options. Someone wants her dead to the point they've tracked her cross country despite her using extreme measures to keep off grid and cover her tracks to avoid them. Down to her last ten dollars and last tank of gas, Chloe is resigned that it's just a matter of time before they find her and finish the job.
A guardian angel must be looking out for her when she spots an ad in the Elkwood Creek paper for a "live in tutor for a four year old. Must be well-educated, good with children, and willing to relocate to remote mountain estate." Recently graduated with a major in Education Studies, Chloe submits an online application/resume crossing her fingers.
One of four siblings who head a prominent Russian Bratva, Nikolai Molotov has relocated to the US. Now in need of a tutor for his four year old son Miroslav, Nikolai needs someone who won't ask questions regarding his lifestyle or business and agrees to living on his remote estate. The perfect candidate has applied though the timing is suspect.
* * *
New series by a fav author who is known for her dark jealous/possessive antiheros and vulnerable innocent heroines and meaningful story lines. Couldn't wait to get my grubby little hands on this one and was privileged to receive an ARC copy to read and review. This review is my honest feelings and thoughts regarding this book.
Main characters Nikolai & Chloe. While the insta-attraction and chemistry between the two was a factor from the start, it's a case where a four year old puts the brakes on the two acting on those feelings. Sure Nikolai was used to and took for granted that any woman would gladly fall into bed with him at the drop of a hat, in this case he had to consider the long game. In Chloe's case, sexual activity with her employer is a fast track to unemployment. It's for that reason imho the romance elements are included but not a significant draw for those readers who are on a need to know basis for this info. Adult content between the two does happen in this story but only well into the story. No worries though as the next installment Angel's Cage which is scheduled to be released May 25th 2021, will probably more than make up for that deficit.
Secondary characters. Various degrees of cameo appearances by Nikolai's other siblings adds depth and world building opportunities in the form of multiple open ended subplots - I kind of liken this to a soap opera situation where each character has a potential parallel story to play out. That means the subplots won't be answered in this installments. Heck the overall plot itself isn't answered which means, dah dah dah, cliffhanger .... to be continued ... ending.
It's really hard for me to now say that my issues with this story/book are that the overall story didn't have a cohesive flow. From the start I found myself questioning the lead up to the meat and potatoes portion of the story. Additionally, various details and scenes were inconsistent, confusing, or lacked follow through. Thus my reference to a soap opera. As a fan of this author I'm hoping the next installment is the light bulb moment I'm looking for as the subplots are fleshed out and Nikolai/Chloe's past, present, and future is revealed.
A solid read that is more a slow burn mystery-suspense romance that fans of this author will appreciate and new fans may want to check out if you're into dark antihero mafia who don't shy away from getting their hands dirty.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
A guardian angel must be looking out for her when she spots an ad in the Elkwood Creek paper for a "live in tutor for a four year old. Must be well-educated, good with children, and willing to relocate to remote mountain estate." Recently graduated with a major in Education Studies, Chloe submits an online application/resume crossing her fingers.
One of four siblings who head a prominent Russian Bratva, Nikolai Molotov has relocated to the US. Now in need of a tutor for his four year old son Miroslav, Nikolai needs someone who won't ask questions regarding his lifestyle or business and agrees to living on his remote estate. The perfect candidate has applied though the timing is suspect.
* * *
New series by a fav author who is known for her dark jealous/possessive antiheros and vulnerable innocent heroines and meaningful story lines. Couldn't wait to get my grubby little hands on this one and was privileged to receive an ARC copy to read and review. This review is my honest feelings and thoughts regarding this book.
Main characters Nikolai & Chloe. While the insta-attraction and chemistry between the two was a factor from the start, it's a case where a four year old puts the brakes on the two acting on those feelings. Sure Nikolai was used to and took for granted that any woman would gladly fall into bed with him at the drop of a hat, in this case he had to consider the long game. In Chloe's case, sexual activity with her employer is a fast track to unemployment. It's for that reason imho the romance elements are included but not a significant draw for those readers who are on a need to know basis for this info. Adult content between the two does happen in this story but only well into the story. No worries though as the next installment Angel's Cage which is scheduled to be released May 25th 2021, will probably more than make up for that deficit.
Secondary characters. Various degrees of cameo appearances by Nikolai's other siblings adds depth and world building opportunities in the form of multiple open ended subplots - I kind of liken this to a soap opera situation where each character has a potential parallel story to play out. That means the subplots won't be answered in this installments. Heck the overall plot itself isn't answered which means, dah dah dah, cliffhanger .... to be continued ... ending.
It's really hard for me to now say that my issues with this story/book are that the overall story didn't have a cohesive flow. From the start I found myself questioning the lead up to the meat and potatoes portion of the story. Additionally, various details and scenes were inconsistent, confusing, or lacked follow through. Thus my reference to a soap opera. As a fan of this author I'm hoping the next installment is the light bulb moment I'm looking for as the subplots are fleshed out and Nikolai/Chloe's past, present, and future is revealed.
A solid read that is more a slow burn mystery-suspense romance that fans of this author will appreciate and new fans may want to check out if you're into dark antihero mafia who don't shy away from getting their hands dirty.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
April 13, 2021
It’s a decent read. I don’t like reading single parent romances: one, because of the drama there always seems to be from the mother/father, and two, I like children to be an OTP feature. I made an exception because it’s Anna Zaires but it didn’t feel like her signature reads.
Why is Nikolai saying she’s the other half of his soul? He met the girl a week ago and they’ve had a handful of interactions none of which have been particularly meaningful ...
With darker toned reads where the hero is in a shady business I prefer instant obsession, broken boundaries, forced exclusivity. The lovey dovey thoughts can wait until there’s something more concrete between them... Furthermore Chloe was a bit too ... goody goody for me. I don’t know... I suppose I wanted a more formidable pairing with combustible chemistry.
One scene that was super hot though was this one 😏:
“I’m not—” I stop, realizing I was about to launch into childish denials. “You’re right,” I say in a more level tone. “I apologize. I shouldn’t have kissed you. That was completely inappropriate and—”
“And it’s going to happen again.” His eyes are like amber jewels in the warm light cast by the lamp. “You’re going to kiss me, and we’re going to fuck, and you’re going to come again and again. You’ll come on my fingers and my tongue, and with my cock buried deep inside your tight, wet pussy. You’ll come as I fuck your throat and your ass. You’ll come so fucking much you’ll forget what it feels like not to come—and you’ll still beg for more.”
GIRL. 👀🤭
This heroine needs to pick up on some Russian. It’s not everyday Slav learning English. English speakers can be a bit egotistical - I said it, I don’t care. 🥰
Completely safe from the moment they meet. No virgins here. She seems sexually comfortable.
Why is Nikolai saying she’s the other half of his soul? He met the girl a week ago and they’ve had a handful of interactions none of which have been particularly meaningful ...
With darker toned reads where the hero is in a shady business I prefer instant obsession, broken boundaries, forced exclusivity. The lovey dovey thoughts can wait until there’s something more concrete between them... Furthermore Chloe was a bit too ... goody goody for me. I don’t know... I suppose I wanted a more formidable pairing with combustible chemistry.
One scene that was super hot though was this one 😏:
“I’m not—” I stop, realizing I was about to launch into childish denials. “You’re right,” I say in a more level tone. “I apologize. I shouldn’t have kissed you. That was completely inappropriate and—”
“And it’s going to happen again.” His eyes are like amber jewels in the warm light cast by the lamp. “You’re going to kiss me, and we’re going to fuck, and you’re going to come again and again. You’ll come on my fingers and my tongue, and with my cock buried deep inside your tight, wet pussy. You’ll come as I fuck your throat and your ass. You’ll come so fucking much you’ll forget what it feels like not to come—and you’ll still beg for more.”
GIRL. 👀🤭
This heroine needs to pick up on some Russian. It’s not everyday Slav learning English. English speakers can be a bit egotistical - I said it, I don’t care. 🥰
Completely safe from the moment they meet. No virgins here. She seems sexually comfortable.
April 26, 2021
What i love so much about the hero from this book is that HE WANTS HER SOOO BADLY THE FIRST TIME HE SAW HER. FIRST TIME HE TOUCH HER HANDS BY ACCIDENT... AND HE WENT VERY LOYAL ABOUT IT. He never gets with another woman when he meets the heroine “she is all mine. I might not have claimed her physically yet, but it doesn’t change the facts. She was made for me, her light the perfect oil to the dark void inside me, her warmth filling every cold, empty crevice in my heart.”
I like it when a dark hero that been through a lot in the past, HE NEVER BRINGS THAT TO THE HEROINE OR IN THEIR RELATIONSHIP. HE wants to love her and protects her and so loyal to her even before they were even dating or go physical😍😍😍😍😍 wow! 😍
When the hero finds out about the heroine past, he went very protective towards her and lucky she was with him and safe. “If i lost her that day, I wouldn’t know what its like to have found the other half of my soul.”
🥺🥺🥺🥺🥺
‼️‼️‼️SAFE ROMANTIC HOT LOVE STORY
‼️‼️‼️THE HERO IS OTT POSSESSIVE PROTECTIVE ALPHA MALE
‼️‼️‼️NOT SO MANY JEALOUS SCENES FROM BOTH BUT IT STILL THERE.
“No one else will touch her. I will eviscerate any man who tries.”
‼️‼️‼️LOVE IN FIRST SIGHT
‼️‼️‼️HOT SMUT SCENES
‼️‼️‼️NO VIRGINS AND NO CHEATING
‼️‼️‼️THE HERO WANTS THE HEROINE SOOOO BADLY...
‼️‼️‼️THEIR CONNECTION IS SOOO ROMANTIC🥺🥺🥺
‼️‼️‼️NO DRAMA WITH OW AND OM
‼️‼️‼️THE HERO’S son is sooo cute i want to hug him🥺
‼️‼️‼️THIS IS PART ONE OF THE STORY SO YOU HAVE TO WAIT FOR THE SECOND ONE WHICH IS NEXT MONTH MAY 2021. The ending on this part one was not bad so I’m glad that the heroine or hero did not make a bad ending because other books usually do that lol.
I like it when a dark hero that been through a lot in the past, HE NEVER BRINGS THAT TO THE HEROINE OR IN THEIR RELATIONSHIP. HE wants to love her and protects her and so loyal to her even before they were even dating or go physical😍😍😍😍😍 wow! 😍
When the hero finds out about the heroine past, he went very protective towards her and lucky she was with him and safe. “If i lost her that day, I wouldn’t know what its like to have found the other half of my soul.”
🥺🥺🥺🥺🥺
‼️‼️‼️SAFE ROMANTIC HOT LOVE STORY
‼️‼️‼️THE HERO IS OTT POSSESSIVE PROTECTIVE ALPHA MALE
‼️‼️‼️NOT SO MANY JEALOUS SCENES FROM BOTH BUT IT STILL THERE.
“No one else will touch her. I will eviscerate any man who tries.”
‼️‼️‼️LOVE IN FIRST SIGHT
‼️‼️‼️HOT SMUT SCENES
‼️‼️‼️NO VIRGINS AND NO CHEATING
‼️‼️‼️THE HERO WANTS THE HEROINE SOOOO BADLY...
‼️‼️‼️THEIR CONNECTION IS SOOO ROMANTIC🥺🥺🥺
‼️‼️‼️NO DRAMA WITH OW AND OM
‼️‼️‼️THE HERO’S son is sooo cute i want to hug him🥺
‼️‼️‼️THIS IS PART ONE OF THE STORY SO YOU HAVE TO WAIT FOR THE SECOND ONE WHICH IS NEXT MONTH MAY 2021. The ending on this part one was not bad so I’m glad that the heroine or hero did not make a bad ending because other books usually do that lol.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 8, 2021
2.5 stars
Well that was disappointing. I kind of "drag read" so I can finish this. It has a very predictable plot, uninteresting characters and sucky storyline.
I'm also not impressed by the insta lust and insta love. Imagine after only a week of seing each other? Really?? A week??
Tbh the main reason why I liked this book is because of Slava.
Will I read the sequel? I honestly don't know.
Well that was disappointing. I kind of "drag read" so I can finish this. It has a very predictable plot, uninteresting characters and sucky storyline.
I'm also not impressed by the insta lust and insta love. Imagine after only a week of seing each other? Really?? A week??
Tbh the main reason why I liked this book is because of Slava.
Will I read the sequel? I honestly don't know.
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