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Bratva Crime Syndicate #1
Lies He Told Me
He filled my head with lies. Then, he set my world on fire.
Gavril Vaknin.
Richer than God.
Crueler than the devil.
And if he has his way…My new fake husband.
A chance meeting turns into a once-in-a-lifetime offer.
The billionaire don needs a blank slate to turn into his perfect politician’s wife.
I’m homeless and desperate—what do I have to lose?
But Gavril is hiding secrets. Cloaked in lies.
Stepping into his world is a one-way ticket to a hell I won’t survive.
Did I do the right thing?
Or did I just sell my soul to a monster?
Lies He Told Me is a full-length, standalone fake marriage mafia romance novel in the Bratva Crime Syndicate series.
Gavril Vaknin.
Richer than God.
Crueler than the devil.
And if he has his way…My new fake husband.
A chance meeting turns into a once-in-a-lifetime offer.
The billionaire don needs a blank slate to turn into his perfect politician’s wife.
I’m homeless and desperate—what do I have to lose?
But Gavril is hiding secrets. Cloaked in lies.
Stepping into his world is a one-way ticket to a hell I won’t survive.
Did I do the right thing?
Or did I just sell my soul to a monster?
Lies He Told Me is a full-length, standalone fake marriage mafia romance novel in the Bratva Crime Syndicate series.
396 pages, Paperback
Published October 23, 2020
About the author
Nicole Fox
196 books5,003 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 113 reviews
June 12, 2021
This was the same tired mafia book I’ve read countless times by now. So it was decent, not good, but not bad- average. However, this book did differ a little in the morality department, & I found it rather annoying. I liked Joy for the most part, so when she became the ethics police (which for a character who grew up so poor & was literally homeless was a bit unbelievable) it instantly read as unrealistic. There is no way this girl was that naive, & honestly it made me not like her as much as a character. The world is a shit place, with shit people who so rarely get what they deserve & you want me to cry over Damon?!? Eww!! She went from this tough badass woman who could stand beside her husband to a whiny ungrateful woman who betrayed this man who had done so much for her!! Not to mention a hypocrite with her stupid glass shard she kept in tent city.
Now understand this is purely 100% a personal preference. I love darker romances.
I’m not interested in Batman-esque moral logic. You want to write a mafia romance I need a heroine who isn’t squeamish. Please & Thank Yew!
Now understand this is purely 100% a personal preference. I love darker romances.
I’m not interested in Batman-esque moral logic. You want to write a mafia romance I need a heroine who isn’t squeamish. Please & Thank Yew!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 29, 2021
4.5 rounded up to 5 stars
I loved it. The chemistry? OMG! Sooo good...
A great storyline, wonderful characters, deliciously good writing. What else do I want?
A huge plus for the character development and the backstory for both Gavril and Joy, it makes it all just click.
The only 'but' that I have here is that the story was a little bit too heavy on the mafia doings and not focusing enough on their relationship. Their growth together as a couple and the transition from the fake one into the real one could use a bit more attention in my opinion.
But I still loved it.
And will deffo continue with the series.
I loved it. The chemistry? OMG! Sooo good...
A great storyline, wonderful characters, deliciously good writing. What else do I want?
A huge plus for the character development and the backstory for both Gavril and Joy, it makes it all just click.
The only 'but' that I have here is that the story was a little bit too heavy on the mafia doings and not focusing enough on their relationship. Their growth together as a couple and the transition from the fake one into the real one could use a bit more attention in my opinion.
But I still loved it.
And will deffo continue with the series.
October 28, 2020
2.5 stars
April 15, 2022
It's a lovely HEA story.
Story was good, but not great. It started off very detailed, a little slow with tent city but then around the 50% mark it took off at warp speed. The plot is no where to be found. Character personalities have enormous holes. I agree with the other review about the lack of details once they met.
Story was good, but not great. It started off very detailed, a little slow with tent city but then around the 50% mark it took off at warp speed. The plot is no where to be found. Character personalities have enormous holes. I agree with the other review about the lack of details once they met.
June 19, 2025
I really liked him. And her until she made a bunch of dumb choices. They had great chemistry, and he was so sweet to her.
4 🌟
4 🌟
October 22, 2020
I was completely captivated by this interesting mafia fake marriage romance. The well-written plot has good world building & is actually quite suspenseful with some unexpected surprises that are well-described. The two main characters (Garvil) & (Joy) have good chemistry between them as they go on their emotional journey of discovery while continuing to develop throughout the storyline.
There is: a don (Garvil Vaknin) trying to build his empire while running for mayor makes a deal with a young woman (Joy) in dire straits, his despicable brother (Osip), twists & turns, action, adventure, mystery, bratva/mafia, various crime syndicates, sibling rivalry, enemies, danger, threats, attacks, violence, blackmail, confrontations, ultimatums, drama, intrigue, suspense, memories, deceit, betrayal, determination, manipulations, complications, retaliation, accusations, disagreements, compromises, some steam, contentment & love. I was particularly impressed with the epilogue & the extended epilogue & I look forward to the next book in this series.
There is: a don (Garvil Vaknin) trying to build his empire while running for mayor makes a deal with a young woman (Joy) in dire straits, his despicable brother (Osip), twists & turns, action, adventure, mystery, bratva/mafia, various crime syndicates, sibling rivalry, enemies, danger, threats, attacks, violence, blackmail, confrontations, ultimatums, drama, intrigue, suspense, memories, deceit, betrayal, determination, manipulations, complications, retaliation, accusations, disagreements, compromises, some steam, contentment & love. I was particularly impressed with the epilogue & the extended epilogue & I look forward to the next book in this series.
February 10, 2022
Gavril needs Joy in his life.
Gavril has decided that the only way to get what he wants done in the city is to become the mayor. Then his campaign manager tells him he needs a wife to get a better approval rating with the public. When Gavril sees a homeless woman named Joy, he knows she is who he needs by his side. This is a great read and I highly recommend it!
Gavril has decided that the only way to get what he wants done in the city is to become the mayor. Then his campaign manager tells him he needs a wife to get a better approval rating with the public. When Gavril sees a homeless woman named Joy, he knows she is who he needs by his side. This is a great read and I highly recommend it!
December 7, 2022
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋💋
This book is filled with everything you want from a Mafia Romance.
Plus it’s brilliantly written and has the best alpha male I’ve read for a while.
💋💋💋
This book is filled with everything you want from a Mafia Romance.
Plus it’s brilliantly written and has the best alpha male I’ve read for a while.
February 28, 2023
I cared for neither of these characters.
October 24, 2020
When a fake marriage becomes a loving one!
by sewsummore
Joy was forced to flee the home she shared with her mum and her mother's boyfriend. It was run or be raped in her own home by her mother's boyfriend. Alone without money or a place to stay, her life went downhill quickly. It took a chance meeting at a Free Pizza Rally for her luck to change. When Gavil first saw Joy, she was dirty and unkempt, but he felt drawn to her despite her appearance. He offered her money, and his contact details should she ever need help. Joy felt drawn to him as well, but her pride would not let her take the money. It was only when her mother needed help that she finally accepted his aid and his proposal. Gavril was a Bratva leader, he was a dangerous man, but there were lines he was not prepared to cross. When Joy's mother was diagnosed with lung cancer, Gavil made Joy an offer she could not refuse, marry him posing as his fake wife, and he would ensure that her mother would be looked after. Neither of them was in love, but there was an attraction between them that neither could deny. Joy was quickly dressed and prepared to take on the role of his wife, but their marriage was never fake. Gavril had decided to run for Mayor of the city to remove an unscrupulous council member who was causing problems for his business interests. The relationship between Joy and Gravil was a complicated one. As Joy learnt more about her new husband's other life, cracks began to appear in their marriage. I admired Joy's determination to do what was right while falling deeply in love with him. Gravil, without even realizing it, had fallen in love with his wife, but his past was driving a wedge between them. I quickly became absorbed in his book, the characters were people I could relate to, and Gravil had many redeeming qualities. There were dangerous times ahead for these two lovers before they could whole-heartedly accept their love for each other.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
by sewsummore
Joy was forced to flee the home she shared with her mum and her mother's boyfriend. It was run or be raped in her own home by her mother's boyfriend. Alone without money or a place to stay, her life went downhill quickly. It took a chance meeting at a Free Pizza Rally for her luck to change. When Gavil first saw Joy, she was dirty and unkempt, but he felt drawn to her despite her appearance. He offered her money, and his contact details should she ever need help. Joy felt drawn to him as well, but her pride would not let her take the money. It was only when her mother needed help that she finally accepted his aid and his proposal. Gavril was a Bratva leader, he was a dangerous man, but there were lines he was not prepared to cross. When Joy's mother was diagnosed with lung cancer, Gavil made Joy an offer she could not refuse, marry him posing as his fake wife, and he would ensure that her mother would be looked after. Neither of them was in love, but there was an attraction between them that neither could deny. Joy was quickly dressed and prepared to take on the role of his wife, but their marriage was never fake. Gavril had decided to run for Mayor of the city to remove an unscrupulous council member who was causing problems for his business interests. The relationship between Joy and Gravil was a complicated one. As Joy learnt more about her new husband's other life, cracks began to appear in their marriage. I admired Joy's determination to do what was right while falling deeply in love with him. Gravil, without even realizing it, had fallen in love with his wife, but his past was driving a wedge between them. I quickly became absorbed in his book, the characters were people I could relate to, and Gravil had many redeeming qualities. There were dangerous times ahead for these two lovers before they could whole-heartedly accept their love for each other.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
November 19, 2020
Really really liked this book but....
Ok so this book was amazing when it came to the story plot but as far as sexy scenes They all felt rushed. Im the first to admit that i read erotica just for the sexy scenes. They were still hot but not like i felt they could've been if the detail was better. Over all tho it was an awesome book and i loved the story line. I can't wait to read the next in the series!
Ok so this book was amazing when it came to the story plot but as far as sexy scenes They all felt rushed. Im the first to admit that i read erotica just for the sexy scenes. They were still hot but not like i felt they could've been if the detail was better. Over all tho it was an awesome book and i loved the story line. I can't wait to read the next in the series!
October 23, 2020
Lies He Tells Me: A Fake Marriage Dark Mafia Romance
(Bratva Crime Syndicate Book 1)
Written by: Nicole Fox
Nicole Fox has written an amazing Bratva suspense novel, in this first of a new series.
Gavril Vaknin and his brother Osip grew up on the streets of Toronto. Both made it through those years and together they formed the Vaknin Bratva. They made rules, rules that everyone even the Leaders had to follow. Osip broke the 1st rule and instead Gavril risks his leadership position and does not follow the rules.
Joy Smith ended up running away from her home (as much as it was) on the night her mother’s boyfriend came into her room with intent to assault her. Joy lived on the streets and the tent city in the park. Protected by an older man in tent city, the night he died was the night Joy ran again. She has met Gavril earlier at an event where he was providing food for the homeless.
Gavril had a plan; he was taking hold of the city not necessarily with violence but by running for Mayor. He was in the midst of trying to turn his campaign around that is where he met Joy.
This is a gritty story about life on the streets, with both Gavril and Joy living on the streets at some point in their lives, Gavril rising above and becoming a Bratva Don and Joy by taking him up on an offer.
As they learn about each, make contracts, establish and add rules to their relationship there is a new threat. Someone has taken over leadership of the Skull Kings MC gang. As Gavril and Joy build their relationship and begin to have feelings for each other, there are more and more violent attacks happening.
Nicole Fox leads readers through the past and the present. The remembrances, the crime and the violence in the city while Joy and Gavril begin what becomes a true marriage, until the night that could bring down the Bratva and puts them both in danger.
It can go one way or it can go the other and when revealed who their enemy is no one is guaranteed safety.
Another well written Bratva story by Nicole Fox. Very much looking forward to Book 2.
(Bratva Crime Syndicate Book 1)
Written by: Nicole Fox
Nicole Fox has written an amazing Bratva suspense novel, in this first of a new series.
Gavril Vaknin and his brother Osip grew up on the streets of Toronto. Both made it through those years and together they formed the Vaknin Bratva. They made rules, rules that everyone even the Leaders had to follow. Osip broke the 1st rule and instead Gavril risks his leadership position and does not follow the rules.
Joy Smith ended up running away from her home (as much as it was) on the night her mother’s boyfriend came into her room with intent to assault her. Joy lived on the streets and the tent city in the park. Protected by an older man in tent city, the night he died was the night Joy ran again. She has met Gavril earlier at an event where he was providing food for the homeless.
Gavril had a plan; he was taking hold of the city not necessarily with violence but by running for Mayor. He was in the midst of trying to turn his campaign around that is where he met Joy.
This is a gritty story about life on the streets, with both Gavril and Joy living on the streets at some point in their lives, Gavril rising above and becoming a Bratva Don and Joy by taking him up on an offer.
As they learn about each, make contracts, establish and add rules to their relationship there is a new threat. Someone has taken over leadership of the Skull Kings MC gang. As Gavril and Joy build their relationship and begin to have feelings for each other, there are more and more violent attacks happening.
Nicole Fox leads readers through the past and the present. The remembrances, the crime and the violence in the city while Joy and Gavril begin what becomes a true marriage, until the night that could bring down the Bratva and puts them both in danger.
It can go one way or it can go the other and when revealed who their enemy is no one is guaranteed safety.
Another well written Bratva story by Nicole Fox. Very much looking forward to Book 2.
February 11, 2021
Gavril is the single head of the Vaknin since his brothers punishment. He’s a ruthless businessman as well as Bratva boss.
He has buildings throughout Maine, under construction but they are slowed down by red tape again and again. The man responsible is a politician funded heavily by the White Skulls who are constantly treading into their territory. He realises that he needs to up his game and decides to run for mayor. When his campaign is floundering, his campaign manager suggests a wife would make him seem more approachable/appealing.
Joy has had a run of bad luck throughout her life. Her and her mother have financially struggled and dead end boyfriends back to back haven’t helped. On her 20th birthday she loses her job in a local grocery store through no fault of her own. When she returns home, her mums deadbeat is on the sofa drinking beer as per. When an argument breaks out between him and her mum, Joy tries to get her mum to stand up to him, but after she backs down and Joy goes to bed, deadbeat attempts to assault her. Fighting back she finds herself homeless and on the streets.
Months later at a pizza for the homeless funded by Gavril’s campaign team, she meets the handsome businessman. She admits that he is good looking but trusts no one. Everyone wants something from someone. Gavril is completely taken with Joy and knows that she’s in a vulnerable position that he can turn to his favour for a fake-marriage.
When Joy agrees she then plays a waiting game before the other shoe drops....
This was a thoroughly enjoyable and well written to Nicole’s Bratva books.
Their relationship is ironically innocent in their worlds of blood and fear that they each survive in, a day at a time in Joy’s case. But their passion and commitment is steamy and attentive. Brilliant.
He has buildings throughout Maine, under construction but they are slowed down by red tape again and again. The man responsible is a politician funded heavily by the White Skulls who are constantly treading into their territory. He realises that he needs to up his game and decides to run for mayor. When his campaign is floundering, his campaign manager suggests a wife would make him seem more approachable/appealing.
Joy has had a run of bad luck throughout her life. Her and her mother have financially struggled and dead end boyfriends back to back haven’t helped. On her 20th birthday she loses her job in a local grocery store through no fault of her own. When she returns home, her mums deadbeat is on the sofa drinking beer as per. When an argument breaks out between him and her mum, Joy tries to get her mum to stand up to him, but after she backs down and Joy goes to bed, deadbeat attempts to assault her. Fighting back she finds herself homeless and on the streets.
Months later at a pizza for the homeless funded by Gavril’s campaign team, she meets the handsome businessman. She admits that he is good looking but trusts no one. Everyone wants something from someone. Gavril is completely taken with Joy and knows that she’s in a vulnerable position that he can turn to his favour for a fake-marriage.
When Joy agrees she then plays a waiting game before the other shoe drops....
This was a thoroughly enjoyable and well written to Nicole’s Bratva books.
Their relationship is ironically innocent in their worlds of blood and fear that they each survive in, a day at a time in Joy’s case. But their passion and commitment is steamy and attentive. Brilliant.
October 19, 2020
This was a simply captivating read filled with action, tension and great plot
This is another wonderful story by Nicole Fox who is simply wonderful at gathering a group of characters and a simply terrific read that will draw you into the life of the Bratva brotherhood and their lifestyle.
Gavril Vaknin had been trying to build his empire and now that he is also standing for mayor and things could have been going better and now that he needs to win, he has decided that he needs to find a wife and this will help him appeal to a far wider number of voters. However, on the day that he had been distributing out pizza to the homeless nothing could have prepared him for the vision of loveliness known as “Joy” that appeared before him.
As Gavril and Joy start attending functions and living as husband and wife it is apparent that they are doing far more that just pretending and Gavril knows that she is his and at every opportunity assures that she knows it.
As things are going well with the election the problems the Bratva are having with the Skull Kings who are at odds to create as much damage to their businesses as possible, men have been losing their lives and at time it has seemed as though they have someone passing on information, however the truth may be far more surprising.
This is a riveting read that will hold your attention from start to finish, there is plenty of surprises and the interaction between the two main characters Joy and Gavril is off the charts leaving you totally enamoured and unable to put this book down till you reach the very last page.
I voluntarily received and review an Advanced Reader Copy
I thoroughly enjoyed the book and look forward to reading any future publications; keep up all the great writing.
This is another wonderful story by Nicole Fox who is simply wonderful at gathering a group of characters and a simply terrific read that will draw you into the life of the Bratva brotherhood and their lifestyle.
Gavril Vaknin had been trying to build his empire and now that he is also standing for mayor and things could have been going better and now that he needs to win, he has decided that he needs to find a wife and this will help him appeal to a far wider number of voters. However, on the day that he had been distributing out pizza to the homeless nothing could have prepared him for the vision of loveliness known as “Joy” that appeared before him.
As Gavril and Joy start attending functions and living as husband and wife it is apparent that they are doing far more that just pretending and Gavril knows that she is his and at every opportunity assures that she knows it.
As things are going well with the election the problems the Bratva are having with the Skull Kings who are at odds to create as much damage to their businesses as possible, men have been losing their lives and at time it has seemed as though they have someone passing on information, however the truth may be far more surprising.
This is a riveting read that will hold your attention from start to finish, there is plenty of surprises and the interaction between the two main characters Joy and Gavril is off the charts leaving you totally enamoured and unable to put this book down till you reach the very last page.
I voluntarily received and review an Advanced Reader Copy
I thoroughly enjoyed the book and look forward to reading any future publications; keep up all the great writing.
October 22, 2020
🖤🖤ONE ACTION PACKED THRILL🖤🖤
Blazing blizzard! Nicole not only brought it, she waxed the floor with it, delivering up some terrifying facts, ruthless decisions and brutal tactics, keeping you riveted on a razors edge and frozen to your seat, propelling this gem to staggering heights. Observing the arduous trials and exhilarating triumphs, unveiling the deadly twists and wicked turns, dissolved limitations and unbound restrictions are amplified and exploited, baring the crazed quirks and defying bents, highlighting the soaring ups and agonizing downs, bursting this jewel to life brilliantly. Trapped in minefield full of captivating drama, callous deception, relentless cruelty, perilous intrigue, nerve racking betrayal, daring blackmail, spine tingling danger, escalating suspense and intense situations, along with a boatload of revelations, you have one block busting thrill ride, kicking this baby into a tailspin with astonishing impacts, fusing this gem together flawlessly. The attraction and chemistry collides with such intensity, showcasing explosive emotions and undeniable affections, drawing our characters closer, binding them to one another perfectly. The characters, dialogue, interactions and charged atmosphere along with relatable qualities and individual traits add depth and diversity, transforming them into lovable personalities. The scenes are strikingly sharp with abundant details and vivid descriptions creating an elaborate backdrop that makes the storyline explode. Fantastic job Nicole, thanks for sharing this bad boy with us.
Blazing blizzard! Nicole not only brought it, she waxed the floor with it, delivering up some terrifying facts, ruthless decisions and brutal tactics, keeping you riveted on a razors edge and frozen to your seat, propelling this gem to staggering heights. Observing the arduous trials and exhilarating triumphs, unveiling the deadly twists and wicked turns, dissolved limitations and unbound restrictions are amplified and exploited, baring the crazed quirks and defying bents, highlighting the soaring ups and agonizing downs, bursting this jewel to life brilliantly. Trapped in minefield full of captivating drama, callous deception, relentless cruelty, perilous intrigue, nerve racking betrayal, daring blackmail, spine tingling danger, escalating suspense and intense situations, along with a boatload of revelations, you have one block busting thrill ride, kicking this baby into a tailspin with astonishing impacts, fusing this gem together flawlessly. The attraction and chemistry collides with such intensity, showcasing explosive emotions and undeniable affections, drawing our characters closer, binding them to one another perfectly. The characters, dialogue, interactions and charged atmosphere along with relatable qualities and individual traits add depth and diversity, transforming them into lovable personalities. The scenes are strikingly sharp with abundant details and vivid descriptions creating an elaborate backdrop that makes the storyline explode. Fantastic job Nicole, thanks for sharing this bad boy with us.
January 5, 2021
Gavril is the Vaknin Bratva leader, he has a duty and an image to uphold. But when his brother Osip breaks the rules of the Bratva, what choice does he have?!? When he is doesn't punish his brother like the rules dictate, he may live to regret it. But for now, he has contracts that aren't going as planned he decides to run for Mayor, but needs to clean up his image, he needs a wife!!! Can he find what he is looking for in Joy?
Joy has tried to live a quiet love to get through her days the best she can. She is currently living with her mom and her mom's boyfriend Damon, but one night proves to be too much and she runs away from home to live on the streets where she is better cared for than with Damon. She has made friends, but one day over a pizza party she meets the soon to be Mayor and feels a pull and an attraction to him that no one can resist. But when he proposes a fake marriage in exchange for anything she wants, how can she say no if it means her mom gets the best help, away from Damon and so much more?!?! Will Gavril hold up his end and make things right for Joy’s mom? Can she trust Gavril with her heart?
This story has so much from death, drama, suspense, passion, love, lust, romance, mystery and tragedy. Will Gavril & Joy get their happy ever after? I loved this book and can't wait for more of the Bratva men!!! I received an ARC of this book from the author.
Joy has tried to live a quiet love to get through her days the best she can. She is currently living with her mom and her mom's boyfriend Damon, but one night proves to be too much and she runs away from home to live on the streets where she is better cared for than with Damon. She has made friends, but one day over a pizza party she meets the soon to be Mayor and feels a pull and an attraction to him that no one can resist. But when he proposes a fake marriage in exchange for anything she wants, how can she say no if it means her mom gets the best help, away from Damon and so much more?!?! Will Gavril hold up his end and make things right for Joy’s mom? Can she trust Gavril with her heart?
This story has so much from death, drama, suspense, passion, love, lust, romance, mystery and tragedy. Will Gavril & Joy get their happy ever after? I loved this book and can't wait for more of the Bratva men!!! I received an ARC of this book from the author.
November 1, 2020
5 STARS FOR Lies He Told Me - A Fake Marriage ( Dark Mafia Romance )
Author Nicole Fox
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.
LOVED THIS BOOK !!!
Great characters in Joy and Gavril Vaknin
Mafia Setting
Arranged marriage
Interesting plot / storyline
Great secondary characters
Sizzling chemistry
Loved the book cover - interested along with book blurb to one click
HEA
Loved this book and could not put it down ! Gavril and Joy have awesome chemistry even though they enter into an arranged marriage . Gavril benefits by looking more respectable to the public in his bid for mayor and Joy ( who is homeless at the time they meet ) gets a cash payout. Neither expect to fall in love or come to trust each other. There is great action and suspense in this book as well bringing to light the issue of homelessness ( something no one chooses to be but can happen to someone under very unexpected circumstances )
Can’t wait to read more by this author !! Highly recommend her work and this book !!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Author Nicole Fox
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.
LOVED THIS BOOK !!!
Great characters in Joy and Gavril Vaknin
Mafia Setting
Arranged marriage
Interesting plot / storyline
Great secondary characters
Sizzling chemistry
Loved the book cover - interested along with book blurb to one click
HEA
Loved this book and could not put it down ! Gavril and Joy have awesome chemistry even though they enter into an arranged marriage . Gavril benefits by looking more respectable to the public in his bid for mayor and Joy ( who is homeless at the time they meet ) gets a cash payout. Neither expect to fall in love or come to trust each other. There is great action and suspense in this book as well bringing to light the issue of homelessness ( something no one chooses to be but can happen to someone under very unexpected circumstances )
Can’t wait to read more by this author !! Highly recommend her work and this book !!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 4, 2025
Gavril & Joy's Story
This book takes place in Toronto, different than most of the author's books that are usually based on NY or LA.
Gavril Vaknin is head of the Bratva and a successful real estate businessman. I the beginning of the book, he excils his brother for breaking the cardinal rule of killing a civilian. This is the beginning of him showing weakness as that was punishable by only death.
Unbelievably, this Bratva boss decides to run for the mayor, but no one exploits his rumored connections.
He meets Joy Smih at one of his community campaign events. Joy has had an awful life, growing up poor, with a mother and her many deadbeat boyfriends. She ran away to avoid being raped by the latest deadbeat boyfriend, spending 6 months homeless in a tent city.
The story then moves to a fake wedding for political purposes (even though it isn't fake at all) even though Gavril knew her for 5 minutes before he asked her, war with a motorcycle gang, and other outrageous complications.
The book really stretches what is believable. How could Gavril run a campaign while fighting a war? The extreme change in Gavril as a dominant and strong leader is not believable.
This is moderately entertaining but not one of the author's more believable or enjoyable books.
This book takes place in Toronto, different than most of the author's books that are usually based on NY or LA.
Gavril Vaknin is head of the Bratva and a successful real estate businessman. I the beginning of the book, he excils his brother for breaking the cardinal rule of killing a civilian. This is the beginning of him showing weakness as that was punishable by only death.
Unbelievably, this Bratva boss decides to run for the mayor, but no one exploits his rumored connections.
He meets Joy Smih at one of his community campaign events. Joy has had an awful life, growing up poor, with a mother and her many deadbeat boyfriends. She ran away to avoid being raped by the latest deadbeat boyfriend, spending 6 months homeless in a tent city.
The story then moves to a fake wedding for political purposes (even though it isn't fake at all) even though Gavril knew her for 5 minutes before he asked her, war with a motorcycle gang, and other outrageous complications.
The book really stretches what is believable. How could Gavril run a campaign while fighting a war? The extreme change in Gavril as a dominant and strong leader is not believable.
This is moderately entertaining but not one of the author's more believable or enjoyable books.
October 23, 2020
This is the start of a trilogy.
Joy is living a life where she is just getting by living with her mother and her mothers awful boyfriend in a rundown apartment building. When her mother’s boyfriend try’s to attack her one night, Joy runs away and finds herself homeless and trying to protect herself the best she can.
Gavril is a Boss of the Bratva syndicate. Gavril decides to run for Mayor but, he is not getting the votes he needs so, he is told he needs a wife to help him win the election. Joy and Gavril meet while he is giving away free pizza in the park for charity. Gavril see’s something special in Joy and offers her his card telling her she will not be turned away if she comes to his house. Soon Joy gets scared and desperate and goes to Gavril and he offers Joy anything her heart desires to play the part as his wife. He gets so taken by Joy the more time they spend together and wants to be a better man for her but, his enemies the Skull Kings are getting very destructive with a new leader which is making things hard on Gavril.
I cannot wait to read the next book in this series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Joy is living a life where she is just getting by living with her mother and her mothers awful boyfriend in a rundown apartment building. When her mother’s boyfriend try’s to attack her one night, Joy runs away and finds herself homeless and trying to protect herself the best she can.
Gavril is a Boss of the Bratva syndicate. Gavril decides to run for Mayor but, he is not getting the votes he needs so, he is told he needs a wife to help him win the election. Joy and Gavril meet while he is giving away free pizza in the park for charity. Gavril see’s something special in Joy and offers her his card telling her she will not be turned away if she comes to his house. Soon Joy gets scared and desperate and goes to Gavril and he offers Joy anything her heart desires to play the part as his wife. He gets so taken by Joy the more time they spend together and wants to be a better man for her but, his enemies the Skull Kings are getting very destructive with a new leader which is making things hard on Gavril.
I cannot wait to read the next book in this series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 23, 2020
A great start to a wonderful new Bratva series from the queen of Mafia books, Nicole Fox but fear not, there isn't a cliffhanger to tie you up waiting for the next book. When Gavril finds the stronghold he has on the city of Toronto slipping, he realizes that becoming Mayor would be one way to boost his power since the current Mayor has some kind of deal with the Skull Kings. His "playboy" ways are apparently hurting him in the polls so the logical solution is to find a fake wife who the public would fall in love with. When he meets Joy at a publicity stunt where he is providing free pizza to the some of the homeless community, he realizes that she is the one. When the lines between a fake and a real connection begin to blur, he realizes that she is more than just the one who will help him secure the Mayoral win things get complicated. There are some clues at the end about who will be the focus of the next book in the Bratva Crime Syndicate Series and I can't wait to get my hands on it and start reading.
I was given an ARC in exchange for an honest and totally voluntary review.
I was given an ARC in exchange for an honest and totally voluntary review.
October 24, 2020
Joy leaves her home where she lives with her mother and her boyfriend after he tried to tape her. For moths she lived on the streets until,one day Gavril Vaknin, a candidate for mayor in Toronto, organized an act to feed the homeless and they met. Gavril feels an immediate connection to her and hands her his business card, hoping that one day she will call him or come to his house. When things get real complicate for Joy she goes to his house, he lets her take a bath and feed her and when Joy asks him what he wants in return, he tells her that he needs a wife. If Gavril,wants to win the elections, he needs to improve his public image and Joy can help him achieve it. She refuses and leaves, but after talking to her mother and find out that she has lung cancer, she agrees to marry him in exchange for him to take care of her mother. Joy has no idea that her husband is the lead of the Bratva and when she discovers it is too late, she is already fully involved.
What started as a farce becomes something real for them and when Joy’s life is in danger, Gavril doesn’t hesitate to risk his own to protect her.
What started as a farce becomes something real for them and when Joy’s life is in danger, Gavril doesn’t hesitate to risk his own to protect her.
October 25, 2020
Oh what a tangled web we weave is how I would portray this incredible book by this talented author, Nicole has this ability to take you into the minds of her characters weaving a tale of love, pain, heartbreak and so much more, there are so many twists and turns a truly gripping emotional mafia romance.
Gavril Vakrin head of the Vakrin Bratva decides to run for Mayor in order to gain further control over the city, during his electoral campaign handing out food to the homeless he locks eyes with Joy, homeless due to circumstances at home, maybe she could be the answer to him winning the election, with an offer which would be beneficial to them both they set off down a path full of lies and potholes, the truth can only hurt??
With the Skull Kings hot on there tails anticipating there every move causing as much death and devastation as possible, who could be the brains of this organisation causing the complications, maybe it isn’t just luck after all!!!
Is there a HEA? Well you really need to read this book to understand just how amazing it is. I was given this as an ARC by the author in exchange for a voluntary honest review which I was totally happy to provide.
Gavril Vakrin head of the Vakrin Bratva decides to run for Mayor in order to gain further control over the city, during his electoral campaign handing out food to the homeless he locks eyes with Joy, homeless due to circumstances at home, maybe she could be the answer to him winning the election, with an offer which would be beneficial to them both they set off down a path full of lies and potholes, the truth can only hurt??
With the Skull Kings hot on there tails anticipating there every move causing as much death and devastation as possible, who could be the brains of this organisation causing the complications, maybe it isn’t just luck after all!!!
Is there a HEA? Well you really need to read this book to understand just how amazing it is. I was given this as an ARC by the author in exchange for a voluntary honest review which I was totally happy to provide.
May 16, 2023
I DNF at the halfway mark when I realised that reading it was becoming a chore.
There are so many, SO MANY plot holes & the whole thing is totally unbelievable. I can suspend belief as much as the next romance reader but this was bananas.
- she’s living on the streets
- he’s a Bratva boss who suddenly decides to become mayor.
- he chooses to marry Joy after meeting her on the streets. (She’s not exactly a solid bet for a trophy wife & several times it’s rammed home that he’s “all about facts not feelings”)
- no one ever twigs who she is & she has a My Fair Lady style turnaround into a beautiful, refined & elegant woman of the upper class.
This was only the tip of the iceberg.
It’s nonsense, bitty & as a result. they have no chemistry.
The ending & big threat of the new rival gang leader is really obvious.
There was just nothing to enjoy about the whole thing & I’m really surprised as I’ve read things by this author before & generally enjoyed them!
There are so many, SO MANY plot holes & the whole thing is totally unbelievable. I can suspend belief as much as the next romance reader but this was bananas.
- she’s living on the streets
- he’s a Bratva boss who suddenly decides to become mayor.
- he chooses to marry Joy after meeting her on the streets. (She’s not exactly a solid bet for a trophy wife & several times it’s rammed home that he’s “all about facts not feelings”)
- no one ever twigs who she is & she has a My Fair Lady style turnaround into a beautiful, refined & elegant woman of the upper class.
This was only the tip of the iceberg.
It’s nonsense, bitty & as a result. they have no chemistry.
The ending & big threat of the new rival gang leader is really obvious.
There was just nothing to enjoy about the whole thing & I’m really surprised as I’ve read things by this author before & generally enjoyed them!
October 22, 2020
This book is part of the Bratva Crime Syndicate Series. You don't have to read the others to enjoy this book, and enjoy is an understatement. This book was so, so good. It brings us Garvil Vaknin, part of this Bratva Crime Organization. While others are trying to take over his "space," and try to delay his projects, he decides to run for Mayor. As he is trying to clean up his image, he meets homeless Joy, who captivates him. Joy is a very proud woman, however, due to circumstances beyond her control, she agrees to become his "fake wife." The people love Joy, and she suprises Garvil at every turn. While pretending, everything fake becomes real. I loved how strong Joy was, overcoming everything that she encountered. This is such an amazing read and I highly recommend it. I did receive an arc for an honest review.
October 23, 2020
Nicole Fox is the Biblio Phenom of mafia romance novels! "Lies He Told Me" is a brilliantly crafted story of lies and loss, heartache and hardship, secrets exposed, the past and the present, and love and passion. Gavril and Joy both have difficult pasts with sad circumstances. What starts out as an arrangement transforms into something much more despite the two of them fighting it. The character development of the main characters as well as secondary along with a evocative storyline adds Gavril and Joy's story to the must-read list! An intricately woven story with so many twists and deep suspense that will have you reading this sensational book in one setting!
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.
October 23, 2020
I am a huge fan of Nicole Fox. Her books really take you away and build worlds of intrigue, drama, loyalty, brutality, and passion. This new series, Bratva Crime Syndicate, is off to a great start. Gavril Vaknin, the head of a Bratva family, is running for mayor to appear more legitimate. It's decided he needs a wife, so enters Joy, survivor and trying to help her mother. They negotiate a deal for a temporary marriage of convenience which becomes so much more. These two are great together both strong, loyal, smart, and passionate. There story was intense, well paced, had some surprises, and steam. I cant wit for the next book in this series.
I received an ARC and this is my honest review
I received an ARC and this is my honest review
October 24, 2020
This is the 1st in a new series and is Gavril and Joy’s journey. Gavin and his brother grew up on the streets, and together they formed the Vaknin Bratva, and Gavril is running for mayor as a means to take over the city. Joy ran away to escape from home, and is livening on the streets and in tent city in the park, and when she gets a chance of a free meal she grabs it, and that is where she crossed paths with Gavril as he is providing food for the homeless. When Gavril offers Joy an opportunity which is beneficial to them both she agrees. This is another well written story, which is raw, gritty, fast paced, and has danger, violence, secrets, lies, and love. I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I recommend for all.
October 29, 2020
Well written story that flows smoothly with likable well developed characters. Joy is homeless, when she leaves home after an incident with her mothers new boyfriend, and meets Gavril a hopeful mayor candidate at a pizza feed for the homeless, they feel an instant connection. Gavril is drawn to Joy and proposes a fake marriage to her in which they will both gain she financially and he the respectability he needs to become mayor. Joy is forced to accept his proposal due to her circumstances, unbeknownst to her Gavril is keeping secrets, dangerous secrets. Joy is a sweet lovely caring woman and people are naturally drawn to her and love her. Great read, with a well deserved HEA.
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 14, 2020
This is the start of a new set of mafia books by Nicole. This is about a homeless girl who happens to be at the right time in the wrong place, but can it turn into the opposite? Gravril is running for mayor but he isn't leading in the polls and his team thinks it would help if he was married to look like a family man. He happened to be passing out pizza to the homeless where he sees Joy. He comes up with the idea to pay her to be his fake wife. Along the way they both begin to have real feelings for each other. Eventually Gravril's two worlds crash together. The story has a lot of intrigue and I enjoyed the fast pace. No spoilers on the ending though. Another Nicole mafia hit!
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 15, 2022
Action-packed romance featuring bratva don Gavril and Joy. I really enjoyed reading this. Although this is not a dark mafia story it is an interesting one. The storyline of Gavril's journey to becoming mayor of Toronto is strewn with emotionally painful decisions as well as strange but good decisions to better his run for mayor. At the same time his involvement with Joy takes a toll on Gavril's bratva and puts them in a position of weakness. The story also carries Joy's journey from abject poverty to being homeless and all the emotions, suffering and danger it brings. An excellent book. I highly recommend.
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Action-packed
Happily Ever After
Page-turner
Romantic
Realistic
Scary
Steamy
Tragic
Unpredictable
Wonderful characters
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Action-packed
Happily Ever After
Page-turner
Romantic
Realistic
Scary
Steamy
Tragic
Unpredictable
Wonderful characters
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