What do you think?
Rate this book
Mafia Wars #3
Cruel Enforcer
A tormented soul on the verge of breaking...
The night we met, I joked about being his cougar. He said it depended on how much I could handle. Nothing prepared me for how Sergey Ivanov turned my world upside down.
Borderline scandalous describes the things he introduces me to. Every limit I reach, he knows to back off or keep pushing. Each sinful touch is a catalyst for greedy desire I never knew existed within me.
Once I step into his world, it’s impossible to get out. There’s no retreating from him. It’s a magnetic pull swirling with pain and kindness unable to be defined.
The world views him as strong and intimidating. I see love and demons he never should have been exposed to but can’t escape. Even when he thinks it’s safe, it never really is.
He’s my cruel enforcer…
”Cruel Enforcer” is the jaw-dropping third installment of the “Mafia Wars” series. It’s an interconnecting, stand-alone Dark Mafia Romance, guaranteed to have an HEA.
The night we met, I joked about being his cougar. He said it depended on how much I could handle. Nothing prepared me for how Sergey Ivanov turned my world upside down.
Borderline scandalous describes the things he introduces me to. Every limit I reach, he knows to back off or keep pushing. Each sinful touch is a catalyst for greedy desire I never knew existed within me.
Once I step into his world, it’s impossible to get out. There’s no retreating from him. It’s a magnetic pull swirling with pain and kindness unable to be defined.
The world views him as strong and intimidating. I see love and demons he never should have been exposed to but can’t escape. Even when he thinks it’s safe, it never really is.
He’s my cruel enforcer…
”Cruel Enforcer” is the jaw-dropping third installment of the “Mafia Wars” series. It’s an interconnecting, stand-alone Dark Mafia Romance, guaranteed to have an HEA.
450 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 1, 2021
1258 people are currently reading
1918 people want to read
About the author
Maggie Cole
64 books2,310 followersJoin Maggie Cole's newsletter for exclusive updates and material: https://www.authormaggiecole.com
Grab e-books, paperbacks, special editions, and audio at discounted prices!
Visit https://maggiecolebookstore.com/
Hang out with Maggie in her reader group: https://bit.ly/3cGMxIw
Instagram: @maggiecoleauthor
YouTube: https://bit.ly/3i5zmSk
TikTok:
https://www.tiktok.com/@maggiecole.au...
Maggie Cole is committed to bringing her readers alphalicious book boyfriends and fiercely strong heroines.
She’s been called the literary master of steamy romance. Her books are full of raw emotion, suspense, and will always keep you wanting more. She is a masterful storyteller of contemporary romance and loves writing about broken people who rise above the ashes. Her books can often be found hanging out in the top 100, even years after publication.
Maggie lives in Florida with her son. She loves tennis, yoga, paddleboarding, boating, other water activities, and everything naughty.
Her current series were written in the order below:
All In (Stand alones with entwined characters)
It's Complicated (Stand alones with entwined characters)
Together We Stand (Brooks Family Saga - read in order)
Behind Closed Doors (Read in order)
Mafia Wars
Mafia Wars New York
Club Indulgence Duet
Mafia Wars Ireland
Wilted Kingdom Duet
The Underworld
The Cartwright Family (Holiday Romance)
Grab e-books, paperbacks, special editions, and audio at discounted prices!
Visit https://maggiecolebookstore.com/
Hang out with Maggie in her reader group: https://bit.ly/3cGMxIw
Instagram: @maggiecoleauthor
YouTube: https://bit.ly/3i5zmSk
TikTok:
https://www.tiktok.com/@maggiecole.au...
Maggie Cole is committed to bringing her readers alphalicious book boyfriends and fiercely strong heroines.
She’s been called the literary master of steamy romance. Her books are full of raw emotion, suspense, and will always keep you wanting more. She is a masterful storyteller of contemporary romance and loves writing about broken people who rise above the ashes. Her books can often be found hanging out in the top 100, even years after publication.
Maggie lives in Florida with her son. She loves tennis, yoga, paddleboarding, boating, other water activities, and everything naughty.
Her current series were written in the order below:
All In (Stand alones with entwined characters)
It's Complicated (Stand alones with entwined characters)
Together We Stand (Brooks Family Saga - read in order)
Behind Closed Doors (Read in order)
Mafia Wars
Mafia Wars New York
Club Indulgence Duet
Mafia Wars Ireland
Wilted Kingdom Duet
The Underworld
The Cartwright Family (Holiday Romance)
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 330 reviews
June 2, 2021
Panting for More
This book is FANTASTIC! It started playful and ended with me riveted and panting for the next book!
Backing up a moment, let me start by saying that I love where this story starts! Some gaps from Maksim's and Boris' books get colored in, while also creating pockets for the future books to fill -say like the events that leave Adrian with marks on his back?
I think this quote aptly describes Sergey and why Kora can't help herself:
Everything about him is hot and possessive. He's a dangerous bad boy of ripped muscles, dominant behavior, and a touch so electric, it instantly lights me on fire. --Kora Kilborn
Here's the answer to the question that frequently comes up about standalone. Yes, this could probably be read as a standalone. Should you? It's not recommended. I'd recommend reading the series in order as there are overlapping events from different POVs and different pieces of information come out each time. I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
July 10, 2022
I love that I’ve found a series that I’m becoming more and more obsessed with.
June 28, 2021
*Thank you to the Author for an eARC in exchange for an honest review*
Well hello sexy Sergey!
I was so excited to get my hands on this book after reading the previous two books in the Mafia Wars in 2 days. The way this author has plotted this series is amazing to me. So far all the romances have overlapped and crossed paths, which is believable for how they all meet each other in the first book and what we know about their histories, we know it's going to be a bumpy ride.
Sergey is one of the Ivanov Brothers, he is one of the younger brothers but he has just as much damage as any of them. He has been in an on-again off-again relationship with a woman who likes him for his dungeon but ignores important moments in his life when it is inconvenient for her. Then he meets Kora…
Kora is a badass boss bitch lawyer, who we see go toe to toe with Maxsim and watch out for her friends when needed. When her and Sergey share a heated kiss one night, she jokingly asks him if she can be his cougar and he calls her his Piranha, a term of endearment for him, but she sees it that he sees her as too aggressive, which has been an issue for her in the past.
She wants a man who doesn't cramp her style, but who will still be in charge and take care of her where she needs it. However, what she doesn’t need is all the secrets that surround Sergey. She is no meek kitten and she will never stop hunting for the truth about why the Ivanovs are always running off at odd times.
But amidst the growing war with the Petrovs…. That is more dangerous than ever.
Holy, this book was sexy! I knew I was in for a good time after Nora got an eyeful of these two going at it in the previous book but… man.. These two were sizzling. And a little BDSM bedroom play never hurt either. Also, Sergey has a pink fetish, well, a fetish for Kora in pink… that made me swoon a few times.
I am loving this series so much and I am so happy to be on the ARC Team now and get o review these books as they are ready. This family has my heart and I appreciate so much about them.
One little detractor for me was the amount of back and forth with these two. I feel like it went around the merry go round 1 too many times. Especially for how long this book was. But not enough to knock a star.
5/5 Stars for me!
Well hello sexy Sergey!
I was so excited to get my hands on this book after reading the previous two books in the Mafia Wars in 2 days. The way this author has plotted this series is amazing to me. So far all the romances have overlapped and crossed paths, which is believable for how they all meet each other in the first book and what we know about their histories, we know it's going to be a bumpy ride.
Sergey is one of the Ivanov Brothers, he is one of the younger brothers but he has just as much damage as any of them. He has been in an on-again off-again relationship with a woman who likes him for his dungeon but ignores important moments in his life when it is inconvenient for her. Then he meets Kora…
Kora is a badass boss bitch lawyer, who we see go toe to toe with Maxsim and watch out for her friends when needed. When her and Sergey share a heated kiss one night, she jokingly asks him if she can be his cougar and he calls her his Piranha, a term of endearment for him, but she sees it that he sees her as too aggressive, which has been an issue for her in the past.
She wants a man who doesn't cramp her style, but who will still be in charge and take care of her where she needs it. However, what she doesn’t need is all the secrets that surround Sergey. She is no meek kitten and she will never stop hunting for the truth about why the Ivanovs are always running off at odd times.
But amidst the growing war with the Petrovs…. That is more dangerous than ever.
Holy, this book was sexy! I knew I was in for a good time after Nora got an eyeful of these two going at it in the previous book but… man.. These two were sizzling. And a little BDSM bedroom play never hurt either. Also, Sergey has a pink fetish, well, a fetish for Kora in pink… that made me swoon a few times.
I am loving this series so much and I am so happy to be on the ARC Team now and get o review these books as they are ready. This family has my heart and I appreciate so much about them.
One little detractor for me was the amount of back and forth with these two. I feel like it went around the merry go round 1 too many times. Especially for how long this book was. But not enough to knock a star.
5/5 Stars for me!
July 11, 2021
Audiobook review. This series is getting better and better with every book. I am so hooked to the interconnected storyline as much as the individual plots.
Sergey and Kora are absolutely explosive. They have an instant chemistry that jumps off the pages. Sergey is so unique in how he handles his emotions. I love that he can be rough and ruthless but sensitive and considerate. Kora is a bad@$$ and I can relate to her in so many ways. Sergey knows exactly what she needs and is there for her in all ways.
Aaron Shedlock and Zara Eden did a fantastic job in their narration. They literally brought the characters to life. Their tone, pitch, and pace were on point.
I can’t wait for the next book!
Complementary copy received and voluntarily reviewed.
Sergey and Kora are absolutely explosive. They have an instant chemistry that jumps off the pages. Sergey is so unique in how he handles his emotions. I love that he can be rough and ruthless but sensitive and considerate. Kora is a bad@$$ and I can relate to her in so many ways. Sergey knows exactly what she needs and is there for her in all ways.
Aaron Shedlock and Zara Eden did a fantastic job in their narration. They literally brought the characters to life. Their tone, pitch, and pace were on point.
I can’t wait for the next book!
Complementary copy received and voluntarily reviewed.
May 7, 2022
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review.
First Impressions
Cruel Enforcer is book three in the Mafia Wars series and I was more than ready to get back to this series and get back to this family again, and I really love how this author writes Mafia, she does it so intricately and where both dark romance and contemporary romance fans could enjoy which doesn’t happen too often in edgier romance like this. I was highly impressed with Cruel Enforcer and the romance that builds, the writing is guaranteed to pull you immediately into it and I really respected the way that we see the over reaching plot be formed within this story. I also couldn’t get enough of our main leads: Sergey and Kora who are such a strong match for each other and I greatly admired seeing their romance develop in the way that it does. I honestly couldn'[t get enough of seeing them together,, and how well they compliment each other.
Summary
Sergey has been in a relationship for years but he knows that is long time to end things as she is not the type of woman that he wants to be with, because while they are explosive in the bedroom, there is nothing solid other than that and she can be a cruel vindictive woman. What he doesn’t expect is to be drawn into Kora’s world. Kora and Sergey instantly have a connection to each other, As they explore the connection that they have together, they also have to come to terms with their pasts and the unresolved issues that creep into their relationship. There is a danger as tension rise with a dangerous mafia lord who has threatened them and Sergey is determined to protect all of those that he loves. We also see how Kora and Sergey lives become intertwined with each other, but Kora will have to face up to the reality of Sergey life and determine if she can live the life he leads while also embracing the fiery passion that is growing between them…
What I Loved
Cruel Enforcer is such a page-turner and it won my heart so quickly. There was an aspect to this story that I so dearly loved and I also get a kick out of age difference when the heroine is the one that is older. I don’t see it very often and I was so intrigued to see how Maggie Cole would write Sergey’s story. I will admit that I deeply adored the way that their romance is built and the history behind it. We do see where it begins, and the events that fall into place, so I do think its best to read this series in order to be honest. The events are connected together and will make more sense if you do. So while it can be read as a stand-alone it is truly best to be read in order of each other. I really admired Sergey in this book, and he has this quiet strength that is admirable. He is such a dominant alpha male, and he is drawn to Kora’s strength. Kora is one of the most prestigious lawyers in Chicago, so she has to be alpha at times. But with Sergey she wants to be seen as feminine and not masculine with him. She wants to submit and let him take control, just so she can have a break from her hectic life where everything needs to be a controllable factor. There is such a vulnerability that we see in both Sergey and Kora. They do explore some BDSM elements, but its not extreme or anything. And I really love seeing this aspect of their relationship, Maggie Cole write BDSM so well and I love how intimate these scenes were and how well built they are that are immersed throughout the story. We do see some side hints for couples in near future books so I am really excited to explore.
What I Struggled With
The only element I would change is having Kora and Sergey work out their issues a bit sooner, there is some back to forth that gets dragged on a bit too much for my liking.
Overall View
I found Cruel Enforcer to be a stunning addition to the mafia wars series, which won my heart quickly. It’s a story that brings two strong personalities and brings such delights to their intimate relationship. The emotions that Maggie Cole is able to give to the reader are stunning and so poignant in the small moments, which is guaranteed to take your breath away. SUPERB IN EVERY WAY!
You are mine. I am yours. There is no one I love more than you, and you will not disregard me or my love for you.
Trigger Warnings:
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review.
What you do with your knife gives you life. In others’ deaths, you were reborn.
First Impressions
Cruel Enforcer is book three in the Mafia Wars series and I was more than ready to get back to this series and get back to this family again, and I really love how this author writes Mafia, she does it so intricately and where both dark romance and contemporary romance fans could enjoy which doesn’t happen too often in edgier romance like this. I was highly impressed with Cruel Enforcer and the romance that builds, the writing is guaranteed to pull you immediately into it and I really respected the way that we see the over reaching plot be formed within this story. I also couldn’t get enough of our main leads: Sergey and Kora who are such a strong match for each other and I greatly admired seeing their romance develop in the way that it does. I honestly couldn'[t get enough of seeing them together,, and how well they compliment each other.
I want to share my life with someone, but I won’t choose any man just so I don’t end up alone.
Summary
Sergey has been in a relationship for years but he knows that is long time to end things as she is not the type of woman that he wants to be with, because while they are explosive in the bedroom, there is nothing solid other than that and she can be a cruel vindictive woman. What he doesn’t expect is to be drawn into Kora’s world. Kora and Sergey instantly have a connection to each other, As they explore the connection that they have together, they also have to come to terms with their pasts and the unresolved issues that creep into their relationship. There is a danger as tension rise with a dangerous mafia lord who has threatened them and Sergey is determined to protect all of those that he loves. We also see how Kora and Sergey lives become intertwined with each other, but Kora will have to face up to the reality of Sergey life and determine if she can live the life he leads while also embracing the fiery passion that is growing between them…
When the time comes, and the fear inside you grows, remember the devil is on your side. His obsession with you isn’t going to wither. It doesn’t die unless you cross him. It grows more powerful with time, and when you give in to his temptation, he will reward you in ways you didn’t anticipate.
What I Loved
Cruel Enforcer is such a page-turner and it won my heart so quickly. There was an aspect to this story that I so dearly loved and I also get a kick out of age difference when the heroine is the one that is older. I don’t see it very often and I was so intrigued to see how Maggie Cole would write Sergey’s story. I will admit that I deeply adored the way that their romance is built and the history behind it. We do see where it begins, and the events that fall into place, so I do think its best to read this series in order to be honest. The events are connected together and will make more sense if you do. So while it can be read as a stand-alone it is truly best to be read in order of each other. I really admired Sergey in this book, and he has this quiet strength that is admirable. He is such a dominant alpha male, and he is drawn to Kora’s strength. Kora is one of the most prestigious lawyers in Chicago, so she has to be alpha at times. But with Sergey she wants to be seen as feminine and not masculine with him. She wants to submit and let him take control, just so she can have a break from her hectic life where everything needs to be a controllable factor. There is such a vulnerability that we see in both Sergey and Kora. They do explore some BDSM elements, but its not extreme or anything. And I really love seeing this aspect of their relationship, Maggie Cole write BDSM so well and I love how intimate these scenes were and how well built they are that are immersed throughout the story. We do see some side hints for couples in near future books so I am really excited to explore.
The devil doesn’t come and go, my lapa. You’re about to make a deal with him, and this is your last out. If you stay, we aren’t going to keep discussing this and going in circles. Not tonight, or tomorrow, or anytime in the future. You’re accepting what you told me earlier today you can’t.
What I Struggled With
The only element I would change is having Kora and Sergey work out their issues a bit sooner, there is some back to forth that gets dragged on a bit too much for my liking.
Overall View
I found Cruel Enforcer to be a stunning addition to the mafia wars series, which won my heart quickly. It’s a story that brings two strong personalities and brings such delights to their intimate relationship. The emotions that Maggie Cole is able to give to the reader are stunning and so poignant in the small moments, which is guaranteed to take your breath away. SUPERB IN EVERY WAY!
You are mine. I am yours. There is no one I love more than you, and you will not disregard me or my love for you.
Trigger Warnings:
dnf
April 6, 2024DNF @15%
It’s interconnected standalone but still I felt I was missing something. Also too much inner monologue. I wasn’t interested in neither the story or characters.
It’s interconnected standalone but still I felt I was missing something. Also too much inner monologue. I wasn’t interested in neither the story or characters.
July 28, 2021
I really loved the chemistry this couple had, it was honestly PERFECTLY done. But I think it can be really hard to balance the heat level, background plot, and falling in love aspect of a mafia romance and it fell a little short for me in the falling in love part. They were very hot and cold and it felt just too much. But still an engaging story and effective at moving the Mafia war plot forward.
February 16, 2023
4 solid stars! RTC...
October 15, 2021
❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥
💋💋💋
I can wholeheartedly say that I’m seriously addicted to this series and these characters now.
Hot , steamy, hard hitting, uncomfortable and so enjoyable to read.
I need more.
💋💋💋
I can wholeheartedly say that I’m seriously addicted to this series and these characters now.
Hot , steamy, hard hitting, uncomfortable and so enjoyable to read.
I need more.
May 15, 2021
OH MY GOD!! I’m warning you in advance... prepare to have tissues close to hand, and not just for tears!
It’s hot, it’s sexy and it’s a rollercoaster of a ride.
If you don’t finish it in one sitting I’m going be surprised, I couldn’t put the book down until the very last word was done! And even then I looked for more.....
Sergey is the youngest Ivanov brother, trained as a young man like his brothers to become killers, to be hired thugs!
Kora is an attorney, and a really one, she fights for those who can’t fight for themselves.
She works hard, and she plays hard, but finding someone to keep up with her is proving difficult! Most men find her intimidating.
This series runs along the same time timeline, we just get to see it from different angles and from the different characters perspectives, but with each book, the story evolves and continues to thrill.
Quick update without spoiling it ....
The brothers were blackmailed into becoming killers for a Russian mafia boss, but they’ve been making plans to become legit, they are intending to start a war between two mafia families, they know this is could be dangerous, it could backfire on the brothers. So they need to take small steps, with the intention of taking out both families. But Zamir (the man blackmailing them) isn’t going down without a fight!
Kora knows what she wants and goes after it. She’s such a strong character, her wit and sarcasm had me chuckling every time she showed up.
Sergey had me wanting to climb into the book and comfort him, his story is probably the saddest in the book so far!
He can’t help falling for the wrong women, and questions how a woman like Kora would ever look at him?!
I loved the age gap reversal (she’s the older woman to his younger man) it made such a nice change for a cougar to be doing the chasing.
This series just keeps getting better. With each book we get more story unfolding. We get to witness how the brothers and cousins intend to take down the men that are trying to control their lives.
It’s great to read about women who are in their mid/late thirties, instead of barely legal girls!
Strong women, independent women who know their own minds.
And these Russian men who might be killers, but have a code of honour, they don’t kill or intimidate women and children. They are hardened men, but will crumble for the right woman.
We have lots of action, we have kink, and we have misunderstandings and betrayal. Just when you think you know someone, they stab you in the back!
And family doesn’t have to mean blood!
And now the agonising wait for book four begins!!!
🦋
It’s hot, it’s sexy and it’s a rollercoaster of a ride.
If you don’t finish it in one sitting I’m going be surprised, I couldn’t put the book down until the very last word was done! And even then I looked for more.....
Sergey is the youngest Ivanov brother, trained as a young man like his brothers to become killers, to be hired thugs!
Kora is an attorney, and a really one, she fights for those who can’t fight for themselves.
She works hard, and she plays hard, but finding someone to keep up with her is proving difficult! Most men find her intimidating.
This series runs along the same time timeline, we just get to see it from different angles and from the different characters perspectives, but with each book, the story evolves and continues to thrill.
Quick update without spoiling it ....
The brothers were blackmailed into becoming killers for a Russian mafia boss, but they’ve been making plans to become legit, they are intending to start a war between two mafia families, they know this is could be dangerous, it could backfire on the brothers. So they need to take small steps, with the intention of taking out both families. But Zamir (the man blackmailing them) isn’t going down without a fight!
Kora knows what she wants and goes after it. She’s such a strong character, her wit and sarcasm had me chuckling every time she showed up.
Sergey had me wanting to climb into the book and comfort him, his story is probably the saddest in the book so far!
He can’t help falling for the wrong women, and questions how a woman like Kora would ever look at him?!
I loved the age gap reversal (she’s the older woman to his younger man) it made such a nice change for a cougar to be doing the chasing.
This series just keeps getting better. With each book we get more story unfolding. We get to witness how the brothers and cousins intend to take down the men that are trying to control their lives.
It’s great to read about women who are in their mid/late thirties, instead of barely legal girls!
Strong women, independent women who know their own minds.
And these Russian men who might be killers, but have a code of honour, they don’t kill or intimidate women and children. They are hardened men, but will crumble for the right woman.
We have lots of action, we have kink, and we have misunderstandings and betrayal. Just when you think you know someone, they stab you in the back!
And family doesn’t have to mean blood!
And now the agonising wait for book four begins!!!
🦋
May 18, 2021
Cruel Enforcer is the third book in the Mafia Wars series which follows the youngest Ivanov brother, Sergey and attorney Kora Kilborn. The chemistry between these two characters from the beginning to the end is electrifying! Maggie Cole sure knows how to write a hot, hot, hot story that just keeps you wanting more and more. This is a definite must read!
May 31, 2021
Must read hot 🔥new awesome book in the series! Maggie Cole this is so good. I loved it and you will too! Don't miss out get it now! It's really written good and easy to read. You won't want to stop til you're done reading!
Can't wait for the rest of the series
Can't wait for the rest of the series
June 1, 2021
I just LOVED Kora and Sergey’s story! Cruel Enforcer is the action-packed third installment of the Mafia Wars series and is a page turner from beginning to end. Theoretically you could read it as a standalone, but read in order with the others is best to get the most of the series. All of the stories in the series pretty much run concurrently, but from different couple’s perspectives. It can be a little repetitive at times, but nothing too bad. Each story adds to a little bit more to the overall story arc. One thing I really love about this series is that it’s not just about the relationship between the male and female protagonist, but it’s about the sisterhood of the women and the brotherhood of the men.
Cruel Enforcer has the most wonderful characters! Kora is fantastic. She’s a high powered attorney who is control in every aspect of her life after her pulling herself out of poverty. Men frequently make her feel not feminine because they consider her too outspoken, too successful. She wants to find a man who isn’t intimidated by her success. Sergey is that definitely that man. He’s younger than her, but definitely knows what she needs and appreciates her for who she is inside. He has always been attracted to strong women, but it has come at a cost leaving him feel vulnerable. His last relationship is was super toxic and his is leery that because Kora is alpha like his ex, that means she may have the same toxicity. The chemistry between Kora and Sergey is practically tangible from the moment they meet and their smexy times were SUPER 🔥🔥🔥. Definitely a great addition to the Mafia Wars series and I can’t wait to read the next book!!
Trope: Instalust
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Angst: 😰😰😰/5
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥/5
Triggers: none
Cruel Enforcer has the most wonderful characters! Kora is fantastic. She’s a high powered attorney who is control in every aspect of her life after her pulling herself out of poverty. Men frequently make her feel not feminine because they consider her too outspoken, too successful. She wants to find a man who isn’t intimidated by her success. Sergey is that definitely that man. He’s younger than her, but definitely knows what she needs and appreciates her for who she is inside. He has always been attracted to strong women, but it has come at a cost leaving him feel vulnerable. His last relationship is was super toxic and his is leery that because Kora is alpha like his ex, that means she may have the same toxicity. The chemistry between Kora and Sergey is practically tangible from the moment they meet and their smexy times were SUPER 🔥🔥🔥. Definitely a great addition to the Mafia Wars series and I can’t wait to read the next book!!
Trope: Instalust
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Angst: 😰😰😰/5
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥/5
Triggers: none
May 17, 2021
I just thought Boris and Nora were smoking hot but then along comes Sergey and Kora. This book has so many twists and turns, alliances and betrayals and lots of hot, steamy scenes that I didn't want it to end. I love how Maggie Cole gives us Alpha males but also some of the toughest female characters you will ever find. Now I can't wait for Adrian and Skylar's story.
August 11, 2021
4 Stars - Mafia Romance
Continuing with the Mafia War series, this one is an age gap romance with an older women and younger man and I really enjoyed that dynamic.
I love when an older women can let go and just fall into a younger man arms.
Continuing with the Mafia War series, this one is an age gap romance with an older women and younger man and I really enjoyed that dynamic.
I love when an older women can let go and just fall into a younger man arms.
June 2, 2021
Wow! Dark, dangerous, sexy, and broken.
Sergey Ivanov is the youngest of the four Ivanov brothers. He was so young when Zamir turned him into the man he is today. Sergey wants to destroy the dark and ugly that surrounds him and his family, but he also wants to find someone that loves him for who he is and accepts him. He thought he had that, but Eloise is not a woman that can commit, and he’s tired of fighting with her for a relationship. He’s done with the games she wants to play. When he meets Kora Kylborn, he’s afraid of making the same mistakes he made with Eloise. Little does he know that Kora is the complete opposite of Eloise.
Kora Kylborn is a strong, confident woman that is well known for abilities in the courtroom, when she is helping her client get what they are entitled when divorcing their husbands. She’s a woman that will fight for her clients. She’s not afraid to speak up and take what she wants in life either. When she meets Sergey for the first time, he is helping to rescue her from a dangerous situation, she’s a bit inebriated and not afraid to ask him if he likes cougars.
I loved this story of Kora and Sergey. While it was dark, dirty, and tragic, it was also steamy and entertaining. They both crave the control, but when Sergey shows Kora what it’s like to give that control over to someone she trusts, she’s hooked. I love the characters in the Mafia Wars series, and I look forward to Adrian and Obrecht’s stories. The Ivanov men are powerful in their own right and when they ally with the O’Malleys, they gain strength and numbers to take care of their enemies. Sergey and Kora have their own demons they are fighting, but when they finally lay their problems out and talk, their relationship gains strength, and they are better together. I give this story a 5-star review and suggest that if you like Mafia stories with dark, lethal, broken, sexy men that are possessive and protective, you will enjoy the Mafia Wars Series.
Sergey Ivanov is the youngest of the four Ivanov brothers. He was so young when Zamir turned him into the man he is today. Sergey wants to destroy the dark and ugly that surrounds him and his family, but he also wants to find someone that loves him for who he is and accepts him. He thought he had that, but Eloise is not a woman that can commit, and he’s tired of fighting with her for a relationship. He’s done with the games she wants to play. When he meets Kora Kylborn, he’s afraid of making the same mistakes he made with Eloise. Little does he know that Kora is the complete opposite of Eloise.
Kora Kylborn is a strong, confident woman that is well known for abilities in the courtroom, when she is helping her client get what they are entitled when divorcing their husbands. She’s a woman that will fight for her clients. She’s not afraid to speak up and take what she wants in life either. When she meets Sergey for the first time, he is helping to rescue her from a dangerous situation, she’s a bit inebriated and not afraid to ask him if he likes cougars.
I loved this story of Kora and Sergey. While it was dark, dirty, and tragic, it was also steamy and entertaining. They both crave the control, but when Sergey shows Kora what it’s like to give that control over to someone she trusts, she’s hooked. I love the characters in the Mafia Wars series, and I look forward to Adrian and Obrecht’s stories. The Ivanov men are powerful in their own right and when they ally with the O’Malleys, they gain strength and numbers to take care of their enemies. Sergey and Kora have their own demons they are fighting, but when they finally lay their problems out and talk, their relationship gains strength, and they are better together. I give this story a 5-star review and suggest that if you like Mafia stories with dark, lethal, broken, sexy men that are possessive and protective, you will enjoy the Mafia Wars Series.
May 31, 2021
Another good book by this author. Although it wasn't one of my favourites it was still well written as always, hence the rating. The heat in this book almost overshadowed the plot but the fact that it didn't shows the talent of the author, as so many can't find that balance,. I read books for the suspense/action and boy did this book have that. It was a bit like whack a mole for a bit (literally and figuratively), as soon as one problem was sorted one way or another, another just as bad if not worse popped up.
This couple was an interesting pairing, both as head strong as each other, but having gone through so much together and apart it makes perfect sense.
Shutting up now before I give anything away.
Perfect page turning addition to the series.
This couple was an interesting pairing, both as head strong as each other, but having gone through so much together and apart it makes perfect sense.
Shutting up now before I give anything away.
Perfect page turning addition to the series.
July 13, 2022
The night we met, I joked about being his cougar. He said it depended on how much I could handle. Nothing prepared me for how Sergey Ivanov turned my world upside down. This third book in this series has been the best so far. This book follows the building relationship between Sergey and Cora, they are both stubborn alphas and the relationship has its ups and downs, secrets and trust issues along with mafia business threading its way into their lives, the story line was interesting and we get more of a glance into the criminal world. The characters are lovable, Sergey is a very sexy hot and sweet heart and the sex is hot. All over this was a really enjoyable read and I am so glad I persisted with this series.
May 16, 2021
Hands down, this is the steamiest s**t I've read. Cruel Enforcer had me hooked from page 1, with Maggie pulling us into Sergey's world, baring his soul to us and showing that not everything is as it seems.
Kora is a serious bossbitch and provides the challenge Sergey needs- Who wears the trousers in this relationship? You'll have to read and find out ;)
Sergey and Kora are my favourites from the Mafia Wars series so far and I can't wait to meet the rest of the Ivanovs!
Kora is a serious bossbitch and provides the challenge Sergey needs- Who wears the trousers in this relationship? You'll have to read and find out ;)
Sergey and Kora are my favourites from the Mafia Wars series so far and I can't wait to meet the rest of the Ivanovs!
November 14, 2021
Oh my gosh Maggie Cole does it again!! I love this series & I can’t wait to read more!! This book is sooo great!!
Kora is this independent, fierce, badass lawyer who will do anything for her friends.. she’s has been through a lot & has worked hard her entire life to get where she’s at..
Sergey is an Ivanov & has been through a lot starting at the early age of 12 years old.. Of course he’s a badass he’s a freak’n Ivanov.. Him & his brothers will do anything for the ones they love & keep them safe .. They are not to be messed with..
This book is freak’n steamy & great oh my gosh sooooo good!!🥵
& oh my gosh that ending!! What!!?? Definitely going to be jumping into book 4.. 😅
This series is a must freak’n read!! If you like dark mafia romance then this book is for you!!💜
Kora is this independent, fierce, badass lawyer who will do anything for her friends.. she’s has been through a lot & has worked hard her entire life to get where she’s at..
Sergey is an Ivanov & has been through a lot starting at the early age of 12 years old.. Of course he’s a badass he’s a freak’n Ivanov.. Him & his brothers will do anything for the ones they love & keep them safe .. They are not to be messed with..
This book is freak’n steamy & great oh my gosh sooooo good!!🥵
& oh my gosh that ending!! What!!?? Definitely going to be jumping into book 4.. 😅
This series is a must freak’n read!! If you like dark mafia romance then this book is for you!!💜
August 22, 2021
The story and chemistry was good but I wasn’t a fan of Kora’s. She’s supposed to be this tough as nails of a divorce lawyer. Yet she let’s her family treat her like shit. The whole story line with her sister taking advantage of her I couldn’t even read and skimmed over because it was so ridiculous. Giving your sister $60,000 in cash believing it’s was for medical reasons seriously.
July 7, 2021
The cover is the only thing going for this book- every other thing is a hot mess
May 16, 2021
Sergey is the youngest Ivanov brother and the Enforcer. He finds himself attracted to Kora after rescuing her from his family's enemies. He has spent years with a woman who has jerked him around and he doesn't trust easily. Kora similarly has always been an alpha female who craves for someone to take control but has never allowed it. I really enjoyed their interactions and how they struggled to trust one another enough to love. The sex scenes were steamy the mysteries and twists had me on the edge of my seat. The ending left an urgency to read that next story. I don't want this series to end anytime soon.
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.
December 29, 2021
Kora and Sergey both are strong headed even though one is younger than the other. Even though many of plot scenes are crossovers from the previous books as we get to see different things happening on different fronts about different perspectives, yet this one had that same suspense and steaminess factor that makes you keep turning the pages.
That ending in book 2 had me freaked out for Sergey and in this one we get to see him been freed from the clutches of his most hated yet powerful enemy.
Also Kora and Sergey do take the twisted and Hotness to another level as Sergey has kinks quite different and although it is something that he was affected in the past it sure makes their chemistry fire. ❤️❤️❤️
Also that ending has me so scared for Adrian and what happened.
That ending in book 2 had me freaked out for Sergey and in this one we get to see him been freed from the clutches of his most hated yet powerful enemy.
Also Kora and Sergey do take the twisted and Hotness to another level as Sergey has kinks quite different and although it is something that he was affected in the past it sure makes their chemistry fire. ❤️❤️❤️
Also that ending has me so scared for Adrian and what happened.
May 16, 2021
I need a cub of my own!
I devoured this book in a mere matter of hours! I could not put it down. From the first chapter, I was caught up in Sergey and Kora’s whirlwind relationship and just had to know what happened next!
In the third installment of Maggie Cole’s Mafia Wars series, new threats emerge that lead us deeper into the ever evolving secret truths behind the Ivanov men, the O’Malleys and their enemies.
Sergey has new problems to deal with, one being his struggle to open up fully to Kora. Will he ever be able to give her what she so desperately desires, or will his demons prevent him from finally truly discovering the all-consuming, unconditional love he’s wanted all along?
This story left me breathless, panting and wanting more!
I devoured this book in a mere matter of hours! I could not put it down. From the first chapter, I was caught up in Sergey and Kora’s whirlwind relationship and just had to know what happened next!
In the third installment of Maggie Cole’s Mafia Wars series, new threats emerge that lead us deeper into the ever evolving secret truths behind the Ivanov men, the O’Malleys and their enemies.
Sergey has new problems to deal with, one being his struggle to open up fully to Kora. Will he ever be able to give her what she so desperately desires, or will his demons prevent him from finally truly discovering the all-consuming, unconditional love he’s wanted all along?
This story left me breathless, panting and wanting more!
February 22, 2025
I thought I was done with this series, but I got sucked back in after a break wanting to know “what’s next” and now that it ended on a cliff hanger with Adrian, I gotta keep going. Kora and Sergey were great - Maxism and Aspen still remain my favorite in book one.
My main issue is that there’s a lot of almost repeat story telling, just from different POV as we add in new love stories. we go back to the same crime, but with a different couple, there’s different elements in each story and different drama but the main story line is still there - but it seems, based on how this one ended, we’ll move past what we already know and go forward - I think, I hope - now off I go.
My main issue is that there’s a lot of almost repeat story telling, just from different POV as we add in new love stories. we go back to the same crime, but with a different couple, there’s different elements in each story and different drama but the main story line is still there - but it seems, based on how this one ended, we’ll move past what we already know and go forward - I think, I hope - now off I go.
June 2, 2021
Cruel Enforcer is book 3 in the Mafia Wars series by Maggie Cole. It’s action packed and contains a cougar and her cub 😉
Sergey is the youngest brother of the Ivanov family. He’s loyal, tough, and oh so yummy. He lost most of his childhood after being forced to work for a Russian mob boss, which ultimately made him the man he is today.
Kora is a confident and strong woman who controls every aspect of her life. She’s a high powered attorney who knows what she wants, in and outside the courtroom.
Despite being tough, both Kora and Sergey have their own personal demons to battle. Their chemistry is hot and they fit together perfectly.
A great addition to the series and I can’t wait for more from the Ivanov family.
Sergey is the youngest brother of the Ivanov family. He’s loyal, tough, and oh so yummy. He lost most of his childhood after being forced to work for a Russian mob boss, which ultimately made him the man he is today.
Kora is a confident and strong woman who controls every aspect of her life. She’s a high powered attorney who knows what she wants, in and outside the courtroom.
Despite being tough, both Kora and Sergey have their own personal demons to battle. Their chemistry is hot and they fit together perfectly.
A great addition to the series and I can’t wait for more from the Ivanov family.
June 4, 2021
Cruel Enforcer by Maggie Cole is a dark mafia romance that I listened to on audio narrated by Aaron Shedlock and Zara Eden. This is the third book in the Mafia Wars series. The book can be read as a standalone but the stories are interconnected.
This is the third book of Maggie's that I have read and it definitely won't be my last. I loved the relationship between Sergey and Kora. The chemistry between them was off the charts. I really enjoyed getting both of their points of views throughout the book. It really brought the story to life.
I can't wait for the next book in the series Vicious Protector to be released on July 1, 2021.
Aaron and Zara did an amazing job on the narration. They both really know how to bring a story to life. I look forward to listening to more of their work in the future.
I would recommend this book if you love mafia romances, dark romances, or romantic suspense.
The Flock Team
Audiobook Obsession Reviewer
This is the third book of Maggie's that I have read and it definitely won't be my last. I loved the relationship between Sergey and Kora. The chemistry between them was off the charts. I really enjoyed getting both of their points of views throughout the book. It really brought the story to life.
I can't wait for the next book in the series Vicious Protector to be released on July 1, 2021.
Aaron and Zara did an amazing job on the narration. They both really know how to bring a story to life. I look forward to listening to more of their work in the future.
I would recommend this book if you love mafia romances, dark romances, or romantic suspense.
The Flock Team
Audiobook Obsession Reviewer
July 19, 2021
I read and really enjoyed the first two books, so it's not really shocking that I enjoyed this book. I love how there are scenes that were in this book that was in the first two but from a different point of view. It really helps shed light on some of the important parts of the series. I do have to warn that it somewhat ends on a cliffhanger. It's not a major one. I just really dislike all cliffhangers.
May 21, 2021
Maggie Cole does it again in Cruel Enforcer by expanding on the story of Sergey Ivanov and Kora Kilborn. This story is panty wetting, sheet melting, page burning hot!!!!!! The way Maggie tells the story of Sergey as a wounded (both physically and emotionally) alpha/dom grips you from the beginning and keeps you at the edge of your seat (while you cool yourself down!!!) all the way to the very last word. This is definitely a series you don’t want to miss out on!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 330 reviews