The Promise

The Darkest Lies Trilogy #2

by Bethany-Kris

Roman Avdonin has always lived life on the edge of reason—hiding an unstable woman while officials knock down his family’s door and a mafia war brews really doesn’t seem that crazy, all things considered.

But everything about Karine Yazov is a beautiful, dangerous lie. And they’ve not even learned the worst of it.

All she knows is how to survive, and put into the hands of a man who seems like her wildest dreams, why would she fight? His stare lights her on fire, he gives her the safety she craves, and Karine can’t stop herself from falling …

Even if she knows the monster chasing her will never let her go.

Promises like his shouldn’t be broken, but secrets like hers could get them all killed.

*

The Promise is book 2 in The Darkest Lies Trilogy. The Trilogy is standalone; the books should be read in order.

Genres: Romance, Mafia Romance, Suspense, Dark Romance, Dark, Abuse, Erotica

Unknown Binding

Published March 29, 2021

About the author

The author of too many novels to count, Bethany-Kris is a Canadian, lover of much, and mother to four sons, a glaring of cats, and a pack of dogs. A small town in Eastern Canada where she was born and raised is where she has always called home. With her boys under her feet, a snuggling cat, barking dogs, and a spouse calling over his shoulder, she is nearly always writing something ... when she can find the time.

Reviews

[Bev · Rating 4 out of 5]

This author's latest books have been a bit off the boil for me and given I have read and loved most of them that's saying something. However, she's definitely back with this trilogy despite me not liking Roman very much in the beginning. If ever there was huge character growth, it's Roman. That man amazed me.

I loved being back in BK's crime world of mob/mafia.

[Deanna❤Pink Lady❤️ · Rating 4 out of 5]

This second book in The Darkest Lies trilogy is filled with Roman Avdonin’s promises to Karine Yazov. His promise to keep her safe, to always return, and to care about her are all things that Karine craves but doesn’t believe she can ever have. Her mental health also need help and Roman promises to help secure that as well. But Karine does not trust easily as no one has ever really cared about her but with Roman, she somehow trust him and his intentions on all his promises. And the more that Roman promises, the more his feelings develop. There is nothing better than seeing Roman become like his father and grandfather when he finally realizes that he loves Karine.

This storyline was very unique. It’s very hard to address and make sure that it is portrayed properly. While there are things concerning Karine’s condition that I felt were corrected too quickly, I did feel for her and all that she had to live with until Roman entered her life.

I will say that the ending is sure to set major fireworks for the last book. Both Roman and Karine may have to pay with their life for what they did and the secrets that now both hold. I’m sure the last book in the trilogy will be beyond dangerous and all I can say is Bring It On!!

*advanced copy provided in exchange for an honest review*

[Jessica Alcazar · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have to get one thing out of the way before I review this installment. I am not only fascinated by what this story has become thus far, but I’ve become even more in awe of the author’s storytelling skills. I’ve been captivated by how her brain works since I read my first book by her, but this story is a level of layering and unfolding like nothing I’ve read in the past, or if I have, it’s been too long for me to remember details. I’m especially thrilled of the development of Karine and her circumstance. The choices Bethany-Kris has made for this story in respect to Karine are intricate and not easily portrayed unless you’ve either lived it or have done deep research. I don’t know which is the case, but as I read this story I feel it is written accurately and respectfully to Karine’s circumstance and that deserves mad props! So thank you, Bethany-Kris, for not only providing a ridiculously captivating story but also making it unique in subject.

OKAY, enough about my obvious mad love and respect for the author! Let’s talk about this story! I’m still just a girl, holding her kindle, reading a story, hoping it won’t break her.

As we move forward with Roman and Karine’s journey, we learn a whole bunch of things but also have a whole lot of questions. I personally can’t see the light for these two just yet and that is thrilling. You guys know the phrase plot thickens , right? Well, this plot is so thick, we are waddling in quicksand! #sendhelp Honestly, the more the story unfolds, the more apprehensive I get because what is happening is real and things are going to get a whole lot uglier before they get prettier, if they ever do << GASP!

That’s it. That’s all I’m sharing. I know, it’s basically nothing about Karine and Roman but if I told you anything else, you wouldn’t be scared like me when you read this epic story and honestly, I need the company in my dark corner. So join me, I have snacks :)

Amazon: https://geni.us/Promise
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Kobo: https://bit.ly/3c70Nu8
Google Play: https://bit.ly/3defegr

[Ari Reavis · Rating 5 out of 5]

"You promise?"

Ahhhh. Every time this was asked, my heart bleed a little more. This story pulls at your emotions for many different reasons, Karine trying to get to the root of her mental state, the relationship between Roman and Karine blossoming into something neither of them ever expected, and the heartbreaking truths that were revealed.
The danger of Dina and everything going on back in Chicago had me so worried throughout the story. And when things came to a head, I was SCREAMING as I quickly turned the pages, hoping things would be okay.
The way BK writes about Karine's mental illness in this book, in this series, is just amazing. The thoughts that go through her mind, the confusion, the fear, the distrust she tries to fight against. The way it affects every area of her life. And when the reasons behind it are revealed, it's enough to make you cry.
Loved the ending and cannot wait for the next book.

[Tanaka K · Rating 5 out of 5]

You guys, this series, The Darkest Lies Trilogy slays me so much. Rich storytelling and utterly compelling. I am forever touched by such a beautiful and emotional story that Bethany-Kris managed to move every single inch of me. The delicate and impeccable writing that captures you and leaves you so emotional. Man, I cried. You have no idea how completely striking this series is so far, Every word makes you feel all the emotions. Every world brings into a world so intoxicating and addictive. The Darkest Lies Trilogy is truly one of my favourite series from Bethany Kris.

The Promise is the heartburning second installment in The Darkest Lies trilogy that mesmerizes you and takes you on such a journey filled with angst and love. I was engulfed into a high paced book with emotional undertones that truly left breathless. I was engrossed. I was crippled. I was emotionally charged but still felt every single word down to my soul. Bethany-Kris is truly amazing. She is brilliant in creating a unique world set in the Russian underbelly of New York. I can only bow down to her amazing and talented way that she conjures words like magic and makes you fall in love with it.

Seriously I cannot wait for the last installment of The Darkest Lies trilogy, The Marriage. I am freaking excited. If you are new to Bethany-Kris, what are you waiting for?

[Izzie d · Rating 3 out of 5]

No intimate scenes other than the Hero and heroine.
Tbc

[Angels · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book two turned out to be one complicated tale. The drama intensified and became more dangerous than ever before.

We loved Karine and Roman as a couple their chemistry off the charts and no matter the complication when it came to Karine they made the perfect couple and the most important thing was that Karine felt safe for the first time ever.

Overall we loved the second book in this series that was about healing and hope infused with yet another mystery to solve and more than a few of surprises. We started getting the answers to the questions that we seek, but, not all of them. Talk about one complicated plot, things really heated up this time around and love seemed to flourish no matter the current circumstances.

[Hopelessly Addicted To Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book two in this series and Bethany continues to blow me away with this storyline. Roman is now on the run sort of with Karine and he comes home where he has to face his father. I love how Roman has quickly been able to see all the facets of Karine's personalities the way he works round each one with such gentle compassion and understanding. I like how we slowly get to learn more about Karine we see her on edge and my heart breaks for her when it happens but Roman is her calm her anchor to love. What didn't surprise me was the way the family supported them, they may be scary Bratva but above all else they are a family. The element of danger is still a big part of the story and I have a feeling things are building to a dramatic finish in the next book.

[Mar · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars

This was beyond good but now I need book 3 asap 😫

[Tzelina · Rating 3 out of 5]

3,5 stars

[♕ Isa_ Books & Tea _ · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 ★ stars.

This book was even better than the first one.

[Aminah Ahmad · Rating 5 out of 5]

Part two in the Darkest Lies trilogy picks up where The Agreement left off. The Promise is a very apt title for this, as we see all the way through, between Roman and Karine. Although we saw that Karine had different identities in book 1, this book is where we get more of an explanation and in-depth look at how it all works for Karine, and what it means for her.

Karine herself is obviously lacking in affection and confidence, whereas Katee is curious and probably a little bolder around those she sees she can trust. "The younger one insisted everything would be fine, it always is with Roman." Katina on the other hand, is all business. "The man in the other room-drinking water. He deserved to be knifed, one said, being there like that, she spit right after."

I actually liked all 3 identities, I think they all had characteristics that made me like each of them individually, and I love that even though Katina is so full on and we haven't gotten to see too much of her, underneath it all, she also trusts Roman too and is willing to listen to him in ways she won't anyone else. "Katina glared at him, and he held her gaze, calmly."

Roman, is a sweetheart and I won't let anybody tell me different. He might be the Bratva Prince that can kill with no remorse, but for Karine, he is his fathers' son.

"He's not perfect," Claire repeated, "but there's a very good chance he wants to be perfect for you. And trust me when I say when it comes to them, that makes all the difference."
"Them?" Karine asked.
"Avdonin men. They're all the same. Every single one."

It might take him a while to admit it, but it's obvious he loves her purely from the way he asks her rather than tells her things.

I also loved that we got to see more of Demyan in this! I honestly find his character so funny and can't wait to go back and read his books. "That happened to Demyan all of one time before his father made it very clear it had better never happen again." This book sees him and Roman on slightly better terms lol, but the love for his son is clearly still there, even if it isn't as apparent as his mother's. "Demyan wanted to keep his son alive. Probably even more than Roman did for himself."

Overall I rated this 4.8 stars. I personally would've preferred to see more physical scenes between Roman and Karine, as this was maybe a little too slow burn for me, considering it's the second book. However, given the plot, I can understand why it played out as it did and given it's BK, I know I'll still enjoy the story anyway. I'm definitely looking forward to all the action I know will be coming in book 3 though, and I really want to see what the rest of the 'why' was behind everything going on in Chicago!

*ARC received in exchange for an honest review.

TW: mental illness and disorders are heavily mentioned in this book. Please pay heed to any trigger warning the author may have noted.

[whatjtreads · Rating 5 out of 5]

"As long as you keep asking me to do it- I'll keep coming back. I promise. You trust me, don't you?"

This book was all about promises. Roman's promises to always care for Karine, to always come back to her, to believe in the best of her, to be a better man for her. I'm a fan of the Avdonin men, and Roman only proves to be so much more than just the carefree and even self destructive man we see in the first book. There is so much growth in both Karine and Roman in this book, and they truly molded themselves to fit each other, but also to be a better person for the other.

I love the glimpse into Roman's mind, how everything he did was for Karine's safety and for her well being. Even when he didn't understand her disorder, he still understood HER, her insecurities, her vulnerability, her desires, the fears she has. He's observant and patient, and this is a great change from the selfish and careless man he was. He finds a purpose in caring for Karine, with the selfless desire to see her healthy and happy. What I really appreciate is that fact that Bethany Kris approach mental health with such sensitivity and nuance: there is no shame in seeking help and in the desire to understand and to work towards being a better and healthier person. Roman never makes Karine feels like she's "crazy" and perhaps that proves he loves her best: he doesn't reduce her to a simple stereotype or a condition, but understands that the trauma of her life has affected her and provides care for her. Karine really blossoms in the book, and in trusting Roman, she is able to live life again. Away from the toxic environment and people, Karine finds safety in her new surroundings and with people who care for her health instead of simply medicating her to make her compliant. Though her growth is painful, because she has to unlearn some of her habits from before, Karine really shines here and you see so much more of her personality.

This second book focuses on so much of Roman and Karine's developing relationship and their deepening feelings. There's plenty of action as the war between Chicago and New York begins, but also heart warming moments between Roman and his parents, and steamy scenes between Roman and Karine. This was such a pivotal part of the story to see how these two characters develop and really fall for each other.

"She flashed a teasing smile and he wished he could frame that moment when she looked so carefree beside him- flying high, because for only a second, it felt like nothing and no one was chasing them. When nothing was holding her back. Because that was when he knew. this was the woman he would always love."

[⏃ : ✦ villainous_vixen ⏃ : ✦ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Almost always I feel I need to pause and collect my thoughts and emotions after I read any of Bethany-Kris’s books. That’s the kind of ride she takes me on every single time. I wasted no time at all on this book, and finished in one sitting. This one was one of those fast paced stories that you can’t put down until the end.
...
Roman Avdonin & Karine Yazov are trying to maneuver a relationship together.... in hiding. One, I wouldn’t call easy. They come from two sides of the same coin, yet couldn’t be more different. Karine’s life has changed drastically since she has met Roman. Both their worlds have turned upside down, they have risked so much to be with one another. But what really got me was the promises the Roman made to Katrine, by keeping her safe, returning home to her and always being there for her. Gah a true Avdonin at it's finest if I don't say so myself. Yet, there is someone lurking in the shadows.....a looming threat. Watching. Waiting for the right time to strike.

The Promise is the second installment in the Darkest Lies Trilogy that takes place right where we are left off in The Agreement. Roman is a changed man of sorts, never in a million years would he believed he would have settled down with a gem like Karine. He's far from perfect, but seeing him try to be for Karine really made the story line truly unique and special. I'm so ready for the final installment!

[Lavender]

5 STARS

Roman and Karine leave their troubles in Chicago. Or so they thought. For the first time, Roman is responsible for someone else—uncharted territory for a man like him. Selflessness isn’t something that comes naturally to Roman. He found something more important than fluffing his ego and cutting up cars—Karine’s well-being and her freedom.

Roman is only beginning to piece together the puzzle that is Karine. He’s outside of his wheelhouse. Roman approaches Karine with love and patience—I doubt Roman even recognizes the change happening in himself. Karine and her broken pieces help Roman bring together the hidden pieces of himself.

But what happens in Chicago, doesn’t stay in Chicago. Roman must think smart and take swift action to keep her alive—and himself too. Roman is no good to Karine if he’s dead. He will have to ask for help, rely and trust others to do so. Anything for Karine.

A fire. Dead body. A promise. Two people that were made for one another. They could never be happy loving anyone else. Soulmates. Their love is fire.

Roman will do whatever he has to protect Karine and her well-being. I have a feeling he will have too. Roman’s track-record is bound to catch up with him. Monsters don’t stay hidden for long. They take what they want.

[Brigitte · Rating 5 out of 5]

This second installment sheds some lights on some of the questions raised in the first one. The concept of this story is fascinating in the way that it reflects the Dissociative Identity Disorder. A delicate subject.

Roman is the ultimate bad boy, but his compassion is commendable. Even though he doesn't quite know what's going on or how it materialises, he does his best to understand and help.

Karine has been through a lot, though the full extent of what she went through hasn't been revealed as yet. She evolves for the better, but still has a way to go.

The plot thickens as the story develops and the looming threats are unsettling. There might be a traitor in the mist, but who? The suspense begs the reader to continue with the story to uncover what really happened in the past and how it all ends. The impossible romance blooms and the threat to Roman and Karine is forever present. All the mysteries are yet to be unveiled and hopefully these will be addressed in the final installment. It's a brave and baffling storyline.

I received an eARC and the views expressed are my personal opinion.

[Gin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another spectacular mafia romance from this outstanding author. This features the Russian Bravta world with the NY Avdonin family and the Chicago Yazov family. The Avdonin prince, Roman has all the arrogance and smarts you would expect. He's not perfect but oh so sexy and brilliant especially when he wants something. It's an instant want when he meets the beautiful Karine Yazov even if she's promised to his enemy. But there's so much more to Karine than her looks. She's a complicated heroine with a tragic past and a monster threatening. These characters are so unique and I loved them. Karine with all her mental health issues and Roman willing to do whatever if takes to make her well and happy. This is a terrific romance as Roman and Karine fall in love and hide from their enemies. There are some special moments with Roman's sweet mother and his stern father. Magnificent characters, a thrilling storyline full of suspense, mystery, danger and twists makes this a must read. I love this author's mafia/bravta stories and this one is a favorite with an unusual couple with complicated problems along with the normal brutal criminal worlds they live in. So good. A must read!

[Jennifer Pierson · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Promise is the second book in this Trilogy, so you HAVE TO START WITH The Agreement (Book 1) before taking this on. Oh Roman, you have started to become a better man & I find myself slipping into falling for you. I see now that he's the perfect person to have felt something for Karine, since she needed someone truly brave (or reckless) to help her & take on the mafia, and he's doing that. He has her hiding in his place, and has promised her things that she needed in her life, but trust doesn't come easily for her. The Promise is where I see the growth in Roman as when push comes to shove, he's exactly what Karine needs in her life. Of course, the monster who is chasing her won't give up until someone is dead, so the danger is stalking them, the twists are coming in hot, and the relationship between these two is starting to develop. It's truly a miracle that Roman is already growing on me with how I felt about him in the first book, but I should have never doubted this brilliant author as it was a rookie move LOL! HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!

[Summer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Yo quiero un Roman en mi vida🥰.

I absolutely loved Roman in this book. I love books that show character growth and maturity, and i got it here in this book. Roman stepped up for Karine and became both the man she needed, he also became the support she was never shown or given. He didn't have the answers but he braved on. I saw growth in Karine too, she wasn't weak. She was strong willed. I feel like Roman should have trusted her more with the truth. Karine can handle things just that she was not exposed to a lot of things and people around her always thought she couldn't cope that's why they locked her away and made decisions for.

Am still in the beginning of book 3, i hope Maxim is alive so he has a chance with Karine to start over and really show her he loves her, and also to make sense to Roman keeping the truth from her that Maxim might be dead. Am getting indications that Masha might be Karines mother. It will definitely be a twist. All in all I loved the second book and am falling In love the writer's writing skills more so that am into the story now.

[Crystal Solis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Give me more!

The Promise is the second book in the Darkest Lies Trilogy by Bethany Kris. I loved all of the character growth I saw in not only Roman Avdonin alone, but in Karine as well. Before he was all about the bachelor life and never wanting to be tied down to anyone. He even mocked his father and grandfather, two men he looked up to and respected because he did not believe in one woman and one man forever. Now he’s all about Karine Yazov and promising her a forever filled with love and security. Karine’s growth was a bit rushed from what I could see, but it was in small bits as pieces that it grew, just a bit fast paced. This book was a good show of growth and understanding. I cannot wait for the final book, The Marriage, so we can catch of glimpse at their forever.

[Mindy Lopez · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reviewed in the United States on April 1, 2021
This is Book 2 in the Darkest Lies Trilogy by this author. It is the next installment to the dark, slow burn romance between Bratva prince Roman and mafia princess Karine. The connection and the hot chemistry between these flawed characters remain strong as they navigate through the unique plot. Feelings start to intensify as their love story continues with enough drama, danger, suspense, passion, family dynamic, frustrating moments, sweetness, some twists, and engaging secondary characters to keep the reader interested until the next book. An engaging page turner with a no happy ending yet.

I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.

[Sandy Lieberman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I devoured this book. Once again, an AMAZING story! Bethany-Kris just has a way with words, I always get a visual and feel like I can hear their voices. I was definitely spell-bound with the story. Although he is the tough Bratva Prince, I love Roman, he is so compassionate and gentle with Karine. She's always on the edge, it's like Roman is her anchor. And even if he is part of the Bratva, how can you not love this guy, the way he takes care of her? But, there is a secret and you must read this book to find out how this is going to move forward. I was once again guessing trying to figure things out, there is so much uncertainty and danger surrounding them. Everything is so volatile!

[Serena · Rating 5 out of 5]

Karin knows she has issues with her mental health and the one thing in her life is Roman, he’s promised to keep her safe and for some reason she believes him.
Things don’t go as smoothly as planned, he was meant to stay quiet while he was in Chicago and it ended anything but, and soon Roman finds he will do anything and ask anyone for help if it means keeping Karine safe. He knows that people will be looking for Karine, but he needs to make sure she’s safe and that her mental health is being looked after. He’s going to use everything available to him to make that happen, but can he stop what he knows is coming and keep her safe.

[Wafeeya Razak · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Promise is the second book in the Darkest Lies Trilogy and it continues where book 1 left off.
Roman and Karine has left Chicago.
We get to see how Roman changes and matures into a man who is in love and will burn the world for Karine.
Karine has alot of things goin on. She doesnot trust easily but with Roman, it is different.
Karine and Roman journey is not an easy one but it is filled with love,danger,secrets and more secrets.
I cannot wait to read the concluding book in this amazing trilogy.
Bethany kris has done a spectacular job again.

[literary.supremacy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oh gosh this book makes my heart aches specially after getting to know more about Karine *teary eyes*.
And I loved how Roman & Karine relationship bloom, gosh it was so painfully lovely to watch that and also how they get closer and closer to danger.
Book 3 so excited for it .

*arc received in exchange for an honest review*

[reneeNaDaCherry · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Promise (Darkest Lies Trilogy 2)

All I can say is danger zone for Roman and Karine. What wii happen with Dima? That is the question I need the answer to. On to the final book in this series apprpriately named "The Marriage." Thanks to writer Bethany-Kris because her books are 🔥!

3/18/2022.

[Janee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Roman is coming into his own. Not the playboy who just does want he wants. He found something to care about, keeping Karine safe and healthy.

Love the way Roman has insured that does what has to do to love Karine. If that means going against others to keep Marine sane.

[Mari (Mystics & Metaphysics Book Blog) · Rating 4 out of 5]

The lies, the danger, the secrets, and so much more! Roman and Karine have even more chemistry in this story and it had me on edge. The story is real because it touches on some real subject matters and the author does a great job of bringing it all together.

[THall · Rating 4 out of 5]

Bethany doesn't disappoint

[Pamela · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Promise

Your books are so Awesome i love the characters and all the Denver,drama,suspense and lots of hot sex and love. Your a Awesome Writter.