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Mafia Brides #2
Kept by Him
My family took something from the Russian mob. Now they've taken something back.
Me.
I was given to Micah Ivanov as a bride to keep the peace between the two most powerful mafia dynasties in Chicago. But my future husband doesn't plan to let this be a marriage in name only.
He's going to take me to his bed whether I like it or not, starting tonight.
I know he's going to be rough. I know it's going to hurt. But that's not all that scares me...
I'm not just afraid that he'll make me scream.
I'm terrified that he'll make me beg for it first.
Publisher's Note: Kept by Him is a stand-alone novel which is the second book of the Mafia Brides series. It includes spankings and rough, intense sexual scenes. If such material offends you, please don't buy this book.
Me.
I was given to Micah Ivanov as a bride to keep the peace between the two most powerful mafia dynasties in Chicago. But my future husband doesn't plan to let this be a marriage in name only.
He's going to take me to his bed whether I like it or not, starting tonight.
I know he's going to be rough. I know it's going to hurt. But that's not all that scares me...
I'm not just afraid that he'll make me scream.
I'm terrified that he'll make me beg for it first.
Publisher's Note: Kept by Him is a stand-alone novel which is the second book of the Mafia Brides series. It includes spankings and rough, intense sexual scenes. If such material offends you, please don't buy this book.
276 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 4, 2021
1050 people are currently reading
1156 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 160 reviews
February 12, 2022
A short steamy romance. Part of the mafia brides series it’s easy reading if you’re looking for some hot romance.
March 29, 2021
Really struggled to like much about this book and DNF. There was zero chemistry between the leads and neither of them were particularly likeable. The sex scenes were a complete fail for me, there’s a big difference between erotic BDSM type punishment and straight out abuse. There was no sexy banter, no talk of attraction to each other, it was straight into hard spanking and use of a belt, neither of which were given any kind of lead up to make them erotic as opposed to just yuck. And then we’re expected to believe after two of these sessions, she was starting to have feelings for him? Just didn’t fly I’m afraid. Add to that the type of “business” the family are involved in, and the revolting father of the groom, this whole book was just a huge turn off for me and I just couldn’t finish it.
March 10, 2021
3⭐️⭐️⭐️
Style: Dark Mafia Romance
Story: 3/5
Enjoyment: 3.5/5
Dark Level: 1.5/5
Sexual Level: SEX-CITINGLY APPEALING
Triggers: No
Violence: No
Male: Sexy & Intense
Series: Book 2
Pages: 276
Audio: N/A
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
STORY:
I found this storyline appealing. I felt it started out strong, then it went to ok and then appealing again for me. Even though the storyline was touch and go for me, I very much love Micah Ivanov. I found him dominant, sexy, appealing and I love how he took over Lena. Lena is a little sassy but not as strong but seems very smart. I have to say with Micah, even though he has his POV, at times I still didn’t feel I got 100% of his thoughts towards Lena.
CHEMISTRY:
I love Micah sexual attraction towards Lena. I had no complaints with him or her regarding this. His demeanor outside the bedroom is the same inside the bedroom.
SECONDARY CHARACTERS
This story as noted by the author could be a standalone. However, the first book was about Lena’s brother Dominik and his now wife, Kasia. Both characters appear in this book, Kept by Him and it piques my curiosity to check out their story. There were other characters that were appealing that I found interesting.
Overall, this book wasn’t bad, but it wasn’t great. I love the sexual chemistry and look forward to reading more of this series.
***I don’t equate these stories to real life. It’s about personal taste and what you would or want to tolerate with the books you read. I know we all have different opinions and preferences with what we read and hope this review was helpful.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Style: Dark Mafia Romance
Story: 3/5
Enjoyment: 3.5/5
Dark Level: 1.5/5
Sexual Level: SEX-CITINGLY APPEALING
Triggers: No
Violence: No
Male: Sexy & Intense
Series: Book 2
Pages: 276
Audio: N/A
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
STORY:
I found this storyline appealing. I felt it started out strong, then it went to ok and then appealing again for me. Even though the storyline was touch and go for me, I very much love Micah Ivanov. I found him dominant, sexy, appealing and I love how he took over Lena. Lena is a little sassy but not as strong but seems very smart. I have to say with Micah, even though he has his POV, at times I still didn’t feel I got 100% of his thoughts towards Lena.
CHEMISTRY:
I love Micah sexual attraction towards Lena. I had no complaints with him or her regarding this. His demeanor outside the bedroom is the same inside the bedroom.
SECONDARY CHARACTERS
This story as noted by the author could be a standalone. However, the first book was about Lena’s brother Dominik and his now wife, Kasia. Both characters appear in this book, Kept by Him and it piques my curiosity to check out their story. There were other characters that were appealing that I found interesting.
Overall, this book wasn’t bad, but it wasn’t great. I love the sexual chemistry and look forward to reading more of this series.
***I don’t equate these stories to real life. It’s about personal taste and what you would or want to tolerate with the books you read. I know we all have different opinions and preferences with what we read and hope this review was helpful.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 15, 2021
First book from this author and I absolutely did enjoy it. I have to go back and read the next book soon. This book is considered a standalone and I was able to follow the story with no issues.
To punish Lena’s family, Micah, really his father, decide to have her marry him. The marriage is supposed to be a punishment and not a romantic adventure. There is also human trafficking which is just the cherry on top for this mafia family. Micah wants to go legit but his father is horrible and rather stick with trafficking women. He is just great, isn’t he.
The book started off great. I was interested and intrigued. Then around the middle it was lagging a bit. Ending was good though. I feel like not that much actually happen in the middle.
I felt bad for Lena because her family really threw her under a bus. Even if they do eventually show how much they love her, it doesn’t seem like that in the beginning. She got the bad end of the deal. She has her moments when she doesn’t control herself, when I’m like girl shhhh. Yet, I liked her. I was rooting for her to get to her happy ending. Micah was good for me as well. He was firm and dominant but also had a caring side even if he couldn’t really show it. Chemistry was good.
I feel like something was missing from the romance and plot for this to be a five star read. That something to light a spark. Some times the characters and story were a little lack luster. I will be continuing the series and will be reading the first book as well.
To punish Lena’s family, Micah, really his father, decide to have her marry him. The marriage is supposed to be a punishment and not a romantic adventure. There is also human trafficking which is just the cherry on top for this mafia family. Micah wants to go legit but his father is horrible and rather stick with trafficking women. He is just great, isn’t he.
The book started off great. I was interested and intrigued. Then around the middle it was lagging a bit. Ending was good though. I feel like not that much actually happen in the middle.
I felt bad for Lena because her family really threw her under a bus. Even if they do eventually show how much they love her, it doesn’t seem like that in the beginning. She got the bad end of the deal. She has her moments when she doesn’t control herself, when I’m like girl shhhh. Yet, I liked her. I was rooting for her to get to her happy ending. Micah was good for me as well. He was firm and dominant but also had a caring side even if he couldn’t really show it. Chemistry was good.
I feel like something was missing from the romance and plot for this to be a five star read. That something to light a spark. Some times the characters and story were a little lack luster. I will be continuing the series and will be reading the first book as well.
March 24, 2021
Arranged/forced marriage and captive romances are one of my favorite tropes. There isn’t a shortage of them for sure but because of this they can be hit or miss. I wasn’t overly impressed by the first book in this series. It wasn’t bad. It was just ok with a couple things I didn’t care for.
I love these jealous/possessive alpha males and their domineering ways. I started out liking this book about as much as the other one. At certain points I liked Micah even more than Dominik. There’re were two fatal flaws here for me. I get the whole dad being the one in charge bit but Micah kowtowing to his father over Lena disgusted me. Some alpha male letting her be treated that way. I know he eventually gets his shit together but for me the damage was done. The dark antiheroes I love so much would burn the whole world down for their heroines not sit back and let daddy humiliate her. The heroes in my dark romances are the only ones who can get away with hurting the heroine because if the author is worth her salt she’ll redeem him.
The ultimate blow on this story was Micah punishing her for not allowing his father to humiliate her. This whole I told you to behave bullshit. I don’t care how wet she was that isn’t the point. At that point Micah became irredeemable to me. I like this type of stuff in my reads but this was so far out of bounds it’s gross.
I love these jealous/possessive alpha males and their domineering ways. I started out liking this book about as much as the other one. At certain points I liked Micah even more than Dominik. There’re were two fatal flaws here for me. I get the whole dad being the one in charge bit but Micah kowtowing to his father over Lena disgusted me. Some alpha male letting her be treated that way. I know he eventually gets his shit together but for me the damage was done. The dark antiheroes I love so much would burn the whole world down for their heroines not sit back and let daddy humiliate her. The heroes in my dark romances are the only ones who can get away with hurting the heroine because if the author is worth her salt she’ll redeem him.
The ultimate blow on this story was Micah punishing her for not allowing his father to humiliate her. This whole I told you to behave bullshit. I don’t care how wet she was that isn’t the point. At that point Micah became irredeemable to me. I like this type of stuff in my reads but this was so far out of bounds it’s gross.
March 10, 2021
Always enjoy her stories.
October 14, 2025
Short, easy mafia read. The FMC was a bit bratty, but mostly in understandable situations and not in an obnoxious way. The sex was also hot and fast-ish medium burn, a little bit of spanking for discipline. There was very mild OW drama, but it was very short lived and all manufactured by the H's evil father. The MMC was very "touch her and die" and even though the marriage wasn't his idea and was arranged, he took his responsibility as her husband very seriously and then grew to love her for her sake. It was a little quicker than realistic, but considering the size of the book, it was to be expected. There were a few things I didn't love. First of all, I really dislike when a Mafia book or any book with a morally grey character has the whole "bad guys doing good things" angle. I'm sure some people like it, but to me it feels like they're trying to sanitize the genre and make it more palatable to the pearl clutching readers who get a self-righteous thrill from moralizing fiction instead of just letting it be what it is. In the same vein, another frustration I had were these born and raised Mafia women acting like mother Teresa! I suppose if I'd read the first book, I might have been able to tolerate the h's brother and sister-in-law more since they were the MC's of the last book, but as it was, I was so disappointed that she let go of the very legitimate anger she had towards them for her having to pay for their altruistic meddling. This blends pretty well with my first issue in that the whole thing seems like it's trying to emphasize how virtuous these characters are which is completely undermining the entire purpose of the genre and basically turning a lion into a house cat. The fact that her whole family was willing to sell her out so they could free a few strangers was mind bogglingly hypocritical. There was this implied and accepted idea that, because it all worked out okay in the end and Micah (The H) just happened to be a decent guy, that everything they did was justifiable and water under the bridge. The sister-in-law was disgustingly too naive for the organized crime wife's life and the brothers and father were a bunch of assholes and fools. How would any of them feel if the H's father had ACTUALLY gone through with what he planned to do to her? Would it really have been worth it to them? Maybe, since her father DISINHERITED her after selling her off against her will, he wouldn't have actually cared that much. For someone who claimed to be able to stand up for herself, the h folded up embarrassingly quickly. The one time she really stood up for herself was at the pre-wedding dinner with the H's family and I thought how she handled it was EPIC! It definitely rode the line between bad ass and stupid, but I felt like it landed decidedly in the bad ass camp. So I was incredibly disappointed at how quickly she folded on the subject and just let the H gaslight her into thinking she was wrong for not trusting that he was "gonna handle it". 🙄😡 Nevermind he had already *not* followed through on what he said would happen that evening. He said he'd walk her down from the room, he didn't. He said he would be with her the whole time, he wasn't. He sat there smiling and letting OW disrespect his fiance long enough she felt ignored and then when OW zeroed back on h, he still never stopped her and let it go on long enough that h had to stand up for herself or be humiliated. I can't believe he had the balls to say she should have trusted him to handle it and that she just accepted that 😤 Apparently I had some feelings that I had yet to recognize until now going on here! 😂 All that aside, the sex and chemistry was definitely hot, so if you're looking for a quick, sexy read that you shouldn't think about too much, this is a solid contender.
March 6, 2021
Kept by Him
Lena the Polish mafia princess and Micah the Bratva's 2nd son forever living in his dead brother's shadow have an incredibly yummy story cloaked in darkness and undeniable attraction that had this reader imagining all sorts of wicked goodness. There are twists, boundaries, sassiness, passion and evil that left me guessing, pleasantly surprised, hot and at times cold. Just how far will Micah's crazy father go. As Bratva's "merchandise" is stolen an eye for an eye results in Lena's abduction. Thrown in a cell this princess is not happy what ensues is just pure pleasure (for the reader that is). The world building, characters, steam and angst are this author's strong suits which always leave me happy for the hours spent in her worlds.
Lena the Polish mafia princess and Micah the Bratva's 2nd son forever living in his dead brother's shadow have an incredibly yummy story cloaked in darkness and undeniable attraction that had this reader imagining all sorts of wicked goodness. There are twists, boundaries, sassiness, passion and evil that left me guessing, pleasantly surprised, hot and at times cold. Just how far will Micah's crazy father go. As Bratva's "merchandise" is stolen an eye for an eye results in Lena's abduction. Thrown in a cell this princess is not happy what ensues is just pure pleasure (for the reader that is). The world building, characters, steam and angst are this author's strong suits which always leave me happy for the hours spent in her worlds.
March 21, 2021
Oooooh, I DID so LOOOVE this one!
This latest release by Ms. Stone ticked so many of my boxes:
Kidnap/Capture
Alpha anti-H
Intelligent feisty heroine
Intense Steam & Sizzle
BUT, the icing on this darkish mafia romance is Ms. Stone's deft writing. Somehow she is able the make us come to love the anti-H, Micah, a Russian Mafia Prince. Because just maybe, there is a heart beating in that chest of his, hidden behind a calm cold exterior. And the heroine, Lena, a Polish Mafia Princess has a lot of intelligence, grit & steel behind her physical beauty.
A darkish Mafia romance that I was not able to put down once I started it & I read it straight through to the last word. Wonderfully written, full of tension, suspense, danger, steam, sizzle, betrayal & deftly subtle love.
A definite reread for me!
This latest release by Ms. Stone ticked so many of my boxes:
Kidnap/Capture
Alpha anti-H
Intelligent feisty heroine
Intense Steam & Sizzle
BUT, the icing on this darkish mafia romance is Ms. Stone's deft writing. Somehow she is able the make us come to love the anti-H, Micah, a Russian Mafia Prince. Because just maybe, there is a heart beating in that chest of his, hidden behind a calm cold exterior. And the heroine, Lena, a Polish Mafia Princess has a lot of intelligence, grit & steel behind her physical beauty.
A darkish Mafia romance that I was not able to put down once I started it & I read it straight through to the last word. Wonderfully written, full of tension, suspense, danger, steam, sizzle, betrayal & deftly subtle love.
A definite reread for me!
March 7, 2021
Great Mafia romance!! I really loved Micah, he had such an intense chemistry with Lena!! The whole storyline progressed at a good pace and the sex scenes were very intense!!
I did feel that Lena gave up far to easy and would have liked a bit more fight and sass from her before she made it easy on him!! That said the story still worked, I can't wait to see if we get Nico's story next.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I did feel that Lena gave up far to easy and would have liked a bit more fight and sass from her before she made it easy on him!! That said the story still worked, I can't wait to see if we get Nico's story next.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 19, 2021
This was my first book by the author but unfortunately, I don't think I would be reading more from her.
I was expecting a lot from reading the blurb.
It looked promising.
However, it was lacking the angst, the chemistry, the pull, the mystery. Yes, there were spankings (numerous!), lust being the obvious main play here.
However, other than that, I just didn't 'feel' it. Even the hero was a bit too 'blah' for me.
I expected misunderstandings, I expected grovelings, I expected animosities between the couple and so much more...
Best to say, this was an average, easy read. Very standard.
I was expecting a lot from reading the blurb.
It looked promising.
However, it was lacking the angst, the chemistry, the pull, the mystery. Yes, there were spankings (numerous!), lust being the obvious main play here.
However, other than that, I just didn't 'feel' it. Even the hero was a bit too 'blah' for me.
I expected misunderstandings, I expected grovelings, I expected animosities between the couple and so much more...
Best to say, this was an average, easy read. Very standard.
March 11, 2021
I absolutely love this series. I have never been a huge fan of mafia romance, but between Measha Stone and Renee Rose, I've actually become quite enamored with the trope.
Following on from the end of the first book in the series, we discover that actions do have consequences, and that those consequences don't always hit the ones who kicked things into ction directly.
Can't wait for book three!
Following on from the end of the first book in the series, we discover that actions do have consequences, and that those consequences don't always hit the ones who kicked things into ction directly.
Can't wait for book three!
May 2, 2021
Least favorite
Did not like the character of Micah. Felt he was too sadistic and cold even after he realized he loves Lena. Usually a character softens as storyline continues but not here. Lena has anxiety issues and Micah does not seem sensitive to this by his behavior.
Did not like the character of Micah. Felt he was too sadistic and cold even after he realized he loves Lena. Usually a character softens as storyline continues but not here. Lena has anxiety issues and Micah does not seem sensitive to this by his behavior.
March 8, 2021
Kept by Him is the second book in the Mafia Brides series, and while the couple in this book stands alone, events in this book happen as a direct result of events from the first book. Lena’s life is completely turned around when she goes from a pampered mafia princess to a pawn used to create a sense of peace between two families. Forced to wed Micah, he demands her body, trust, and eventually love, but will he be able to keep her safe from his own family?
Whoa. I totally have a book hangover. I started this book thinking “oh, I’ll just read a chapter or two before I move on with my day,” but I. Was. Wrong. I should have known better. I was completely captivated by Lena and Micah from the very first chapter and I could not put this book down! It was so good! It moved quickly, there was a sense of enemies to lovers, and Lena sure knew her mind! I loved her character and loved that while she knew her place in the world she grew up in, she also knew ways to push back and not let it completely overwhelm who she was inside. She had fire, but was also able to admit when she was wrong. I loved how well Micah fit with her personality. He was able to handle her feistier moments, but able to cultivate her fire in more productive manners. Usually naked, haha! But he was so much more than just a mafia member, and I loved that he often questioned his orders and had a bit of a conscious. I loved his protective nature, too! So good! Their chemistry sizzled, their connection stood on a firm foundation, even when they were building their trust, and I loved that their trust took time. This wasn’t an insta-love romance, but there was definitely insta-chemistry! Oh! And the danger that they were constantly under had me at the edge of my seat and the whole book had my heart pounding! I loved this book!
Whoa. I totally have a book hangover. I started this book thinking “oh, I’ll just read a chapter or two before I move on with my day,” but I. Was. Wrong. I should have known better. I was completely captivated by Lena and Micah from the very first chapter and I could not put this book down! It was so good! It moved quickly, there was a sense of enemies to lovers, and Lena sure knew her mind! I loved her character and loved that while she knew her place in the world she grew up in, she also knew ways to push back and not let it completely overwhelm who she was inside. She had fire, but was also able to admit when she was wrong. I loved how well Micah fit with her personality. He was able to handle her feistier moments, but able to cultivate her fire in more productive manners. Usually naked, haha! But he was so much more than just a mafia member, and I loved that he often questioned his orders and had a bit of a conscious. I loved his protective nature, too! So good! Their chemistry sizzled, their connection stood on a firm foundation, even when they were building their trust, and I loved that their trust took time. This wasn’t an insta-love romance, but there was definitely insta-chemistry! Oh! And the danger that they were constantly under had me at the edge of my seat and the whole book had my heart pounding! I loved this book!
April 11, 2021
I wasn't sure what to expect with this one, since the first book wasn't great for me. I did enjoy Micah and Lena's story though. Lena is a strong female character. She doesn't sit back and just take it. She also knows when she needs to take a step back. Micah is a typical alpha male who will go to any lengths to protect what is his. In the beginning, he seems to listen to his father, but you get the sense that he is trying to mold his father towards his way of thinking. I loved the banter back and forth between Micah and Lena. They really do make a great couple.
Overall, it was a good book. I was able to pick up who the traitor was feeding Roman info. I wish the epilogue would've given a little more.
Overall, it was a good book. I was able to pick up who the traitor was feeding Roman info. I wish the epilogue would've given a little more.
August 10, 2021
second volume in a wonderful Mafia series
Oh yeah I just had to get this book after reading the first book in this Mafia series. I really love Arranged Marriages that are required like this series is and I am really enjoying it. This has really great HEA and now I am going to read the next volume in this great series.
Oh yeah I just had to get this book after reading the first book in this Mafia series. I really love Arranged Marriages that are required like this series is and I am really enjoying it. This has really great HEA and now I am going to read the next volume in this great series.
March 10, 2021
All I have to say is I loved this book! Russian mafia is one of my favorite genres, and this is definitely one I highly recommend! Lena is from a family who ends up doing something they shouldn’t have so she becomes the pawn. When she meets Micah, she knows her life will never be the same.
Quite a bit goes on in this story and it will keep you entranced from beginning to end! There is mystery, lust and maybe love between two people who are thrown together in a situation they aren’t sure they want a part of. Micah is the kind of character who is described as a tough, alpha male, but as you read you find he may actually have a heart somewhere in that gorgeous body. And Lena is a bit of a spitfire who will fulfill any family obligation she is made to do, whether she agrees or not. I really enjoyed this story, and so will you!
Quite a bit goes on in this story and it will keep you entranced from beginning to end! There is mystery, lust and maybe love between two people who are thrown together in a situation they aren’t sure they want a part of. Micah is the kind of character who is described as a tough, alpha male, but as you read you find he may actually have a heart somewhere in that gorgeous body. And Lena is a bit of a spitfire who will fulfill any family obligation she is made to do, whether she agrees or not. I really enjoyed this story, and so will you!
March 10, 2021
Really great book!
A fast paced story that is amazing, Intense and also has some action, mystery and suspense in it. Some awesome chemistry between the characters with some hot steamy sexy parts makes this a book that you definitely will want to read!!
A fast paced story that is amazing, Intense and also has some action, mystery and suspense in it. Some awesome chemistry between the characters with some hot steamy sexy parts makes this a book that you definitely will want to read!!
March 6, 2021
What an emotional story. It will make you glad you were not the daughter of a mafia family. Lena is a very proud and outspoken lady. When she is handed over to the Ivanov Russian family to keep peace she is to marry Micah. In the beginning she believes Micah to be just like his father, but he is not. You will find yourself wanting to have their union workout, but the hell his father puts Micah and Lena through will make you wish him to die. He father is very old school mafia and women are property to be owned and traded. You will have to read the very emotional dramatic story. Enjoy
August 22, 2024
#2 is fantastic same quick story line you really just jump right in. Love the fast pace, and so creative! There are situations in these books that I have not read in others and so very much appreciate the inventiveness! Loved the ending....... and follow up a few years later is always nice...
March 6, 2021
Smoking hot
I love this series, if you love mafia arranged marriage type books this is for you. Sometimes with books like these it can be somewhat repetitive but the story line kept me interested. I enjoyed the crossover from the first book and was happy to see the previous characters. Can’t wait for the next installment.
I love this series, if you love mafia arranged marriage type books this is for you. Sometimes with books like these it can be somewhat repetitive but the story line kept me interested. I enjoyed the crossover from the first book and was happy to see the previous characters. Can’t wait for the next installment.
March 14, 2021
This is the second book in the series, but it can be read as a standalone. Lena and Micah are forced to marry to create peace between their mafia families. What will happen when sparks begin to fly between them. Fast-paced read with loads of drama, suspense and intense chemistry. Great characters with plenty of heat and a story that draws you in. I liked it.
March 19, 2021
I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review.
My family sinned against our enemy. Now, Micah Ivanov has come for retribution. My freedom. Commanded to his bed and forced to the altar, the deal is done. I am married to the first son of Chicago's largest Bratva family. It will not be an easy arrangement, he is determined to own every bit of me. Fight as I might, when he has me bound and wanting, I am helpless to my own desires.
If you have read Measha Stone before then you know that she writes some amazing dark read and this one is no exception. I also think that even though this is a standalone you should read the first book in the series Taken by Him. It is equally as good and I think it adds to this book, but it's about a totally different couple. This is the story of Lean and Micah. She is the daughter of a Bratva family and she is forced to marry Micah who is a restaurateur but in line for the throne one day that his father now holds. I really like Micah as the anti-hero for his was smoking hot but he sure did demand obedience but he also had a soul and a conscience and he kept his word. Lena was this super strong but she was equally as sassy and I loved that sass. She knew she lived in a male dominated world but refused to accept that until she does by Micah's hand. There is a lot of heat in this book so you might just feel your kindle melting in your very hands. I can't wait to see what story we get next in this series and I am loving it.
My family sinned against our enemy. Now, Micah Ivanov has come for retribution. My freedom. Commanded to his bed and forced to the altar, the deal is done. I am married to the first son of Chicago's largest Bratva family. It will not be an easy arrangement, he is determined to own every bit of me. Fight as I might, when he has me bound and wanting, I am helpless to my own desires.
If you have read Measha Stone before then you know that she writes some amazing dark read and this one is no exception. I also think that even though this is a standalone you should read the first book in the series Taken by Him. It is equally as good and I think it adds to this book, but it's about a totally different couple. This is the story of Lean and Micah. She is the daughter of a Bratva family and she is forced to marry Micah who is a restaurateur but in line for the throne one day that his father now holds. I really like Micah as the anti-hero for his was smoking hot but he sure did demand obedience but he also had a soul and a conscience and he kept his word. Lena was this super strong but she was equally as sassy and I loved that sass. She knew she lived in a male dominated world but refused to accept that until she does by Micah's hand. There is a lot of heat in this book so you might just feel your kindle melting in your very hands. I can't wait to see what story we get next in this series and I am loving it.
March 14, 2021
This is the second in the author's Mafia Brides series. Though it's a standalone in terms of the couple, I do want to advise potential readers that characters and at least one line of action from the previous book appear.
Here, we get another arranged marriage between two Bratva families when Lena (the daughter of the family we saw in the first book) is forced to marry restaurateur Micah, in line for his father's "throne." The rest of the book details their deepening feelings for each other -- feelings endangered by Micah's father's hate and paranoia.
If you're looking for a greyish, dub-connish mafia kink book featuring a likable heroine and a hero who manages to redeem himself somewhat by the end, you may enjoy this. Certainly, the kink scenes are well-described; certainly, Micah is laser-focused on Lena; certainly, Lena exhibits at least some agency over her largely powerless life.
I really liked Taken By Him so I'm sorry to say that in looking at the other reviews, I feel that I read a completely different book. Unlike, well, nearly every other reviewer, I couldn't stand Micah: even his change of heart at the end couldn't make up for all that he had done before. I had two problems. First, though I understand that these mafia/bratva/gang/cartel books are invested in hierarchy, this becomes tricky when you're also trying to give your readers an Alpha male character. When that H isn't the kingpin, he can easily look weak, and Micah did, in spades -- particularly when he allowed his father to humiliate Lena at dinner.
Second, few things annoy me in this genre than an H who tells the h to trust him even though he hasn't done anything to earn it. Micah gets upset and punishes Lena for "acting out" when his father humiliates her at dinner -- he tells her she should have trusted him. But why? He wasn't doing anything to stop his father; he wasn't doing anything to try to alleviate Lena's pain (later, Micah said that he would have done something -- gee, dude, exactly what were you waiting for because it looked like you were just twiddling your thumbs the whole time). And then Lena apologizes for doubting him. At that point, I almost stopped reading and in her place I would never have trusted him again.
2 1/2 stars. Without that dinner scene, I would have rated this more highly. Since it hasn't bothered others, I urge you to read those reviews. Oh, and Ms. Stone: really, get an editor to proof (no one says "hold a career"). Note: I see at least two more possible entries in this series. I hope they're more like the first book, because if they're like this, I doubt I'll continue.
Here, we get another arranged marriage between two Bratva families when Lena (the daughter of the family we saw in the first book) is forced to marry restaurateur Micah, in line for his father's "throne." The rest of the book details their deepening feelings for each other -- feelings endangered by Micah's father's hate and paranoia.
If you're looking for a greyish, dub-connish mafia kink book featuring a likable heroine and a hero who manages to redeem himself somewhat by the end, you may enjoy this. Certainly, the kink scenes are well-described; certainly, Micah is laser-focused on Lena; certainly, Lena exhibits at least some agency over her largely powerless life.
I really liked Taken By Him so I'm sorry to say that in looking at the other reviews, I feel that I read a completely different book. Unlike, well, nearly every other reviewer, I couldn't stand Micah: even his change of heart at the end couldn't make up for all that he had done before. I had two problems. First, though I understand that these mafia/bratva/gang/cartel books are invested in hierarchy, this becomes tricky when you're also trying to give your readers an Alpha male character. When that H isn't the kingpin, he can easily look weak, and Micah did, in spades -- particularly when he allowed his father to humiliate Lena at dinner.
Second, few things annoy me in this genre than an H who tells the h to trust him even though he hasn't done anything to earn it. Micah gets upset and punishes Lena for "acting out" when his father humiliates her at dinner -- he tells her she should have trusted him. But why? He wasn't doing anything to stop his father; he wasn't doing anything to try to alleviate Lena's pain (later, Micah said that he would have done something -- gee, dude, exactly what were you waiting for because it looked like you were just twiddling your thumbs the whole time). And then Lena apologizes for doubting him. At that point, I almost stopped reading and in her place I would never have trusted him again.
2 1/2 stars. Without that dinner scene, I would have rated this more highly. Since it hasn't bothered others, I urge you to read those reviews. Oh, and Ms. Stone: really, get an editor to proof (no one says "hold a career"). Note: I see at least two more possible entries in this series. I hope they're more like the first book, because if they're like this, I doubt I'll continue.
March 12, 2021
This is the second book in the Mafia Brides series. It’s an interconnected standalone featuring Micah Ivanov and Lena Staszek. The dynamic start of the story immediately caught my interest. Bringing the Russian Bratva together with the Polish Mafia is rife with distrust. Micah &Lena have to follow their families’ wishes and the uncertainty & tension surrounding families is massive. I loved the solidity of Micah, his strength & protectiveness of Lena and the way he simultaneously pushes her boundaries. Lena is cherished by her family, yet also a bit smothered. It's lovely to see her start to bloom. I enjoyed the story-there were a couple unexpected bits that I loved!-and how both families plan to evolve their businesses in the future.
I received a copy of this book. My honest opinion is voluntarily provided.
I received a copy of this book. My honest opinion is voluntarily provided.
March 13, 2021
A much awaited second part to this series
A much awaited second part to this book that I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of this book and I know that other readers will feel exactly the same. Micah is a really great character, so strong and dominant and inserted in this story you cannot help but be totally drawn into the book.
I believe that Lena was also complex and I think she may have been a slightly stronger character however this is a personal opinion and the author wrote this story with a very specific plot and character traits in mind and they were excellent.
I look forward to future stories by this wonderful author.
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.
A much awaited second part to this book that I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of this book and I know that other readers will feel exactly the same. Micah is a really great character, so strong and dominant and inserted in this story you cannot help but be totally drawn into the book.
I believe that Lena was also complex and I think she may have been a slightly stronger character however this is a personal opinion and the author wrote this story with a very specific plot and character traits in mind and they were excellent.
I look forward to future stories by this wonderful author.
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.
March 10, 2021
Micah is one of the best mafia romance heroes I’ve read for awhile. He never loses his cool yet he’s always right where his wife needs him to protect her. He is domineering but not mean. He wants to take the business legitimate routes. He expects Lena to obey him and punishes her calmly when she doesn’t. He doesn’t let her push his buttons and she is used to being able to do that.
Lena comes off as spoiled at first, but you’ll come to appreciate her for her honesty, sincerity and ability to fix things she does wrong. Micah actually likes her strength and feisty attitude.
The relationships to watch are those with their fathers. It is the old world mafia vs the new and how best to honor the family.
This is a really good story because of the dynamic between Lena and Micah and because it peripherally deals with issues of organized crime and human trafficking. I loved the ending.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Lena comes off as spoiled at first, but you’ll come to appreciate her for her honesty, sincerity and ability to fix things she does wrong. Micah actually likes her strength and feisty attitude.
The relationships to watch are those with their fathers. It is the old world mafia vs the new and how best to honor the family.
This is a really good story because of the dynamic between Lena and Micah and because it peripherally deals with issues of organized crime and human trafficking. I loved the ending.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 13, 2021
My father’s enemy is my temptation
This author is my go-to author when it comes to dark romance. She always gives me the strong alpha anti-hero that I crave, who takes command of the head strong woman who is all he thinks about, and she fills the pages of her stories with so much steam they leave the sheets burning and my glasses foggy. This book is just what I look for in her mafia romances. I absolutely enjoyed the characters and the struggles they faced with their families, their worlds and their conscience. This book is one that I will be reading over and over again, to once again lose myself in the world that this author has created.
This author is my go-to author when it comes to dark romance. She always gives me the strong alpha anti-hero that I crave, who takes command of the head strong woman who is all he thinks about, and she fills the pages of her stories with so much steam they leave the sheets burning and my glasses foggy. This book is just what I look for in her mafia romances. I absolutely enjoyed the characters and the struggles they faced with their families, their worlds and their conscience. This book is one that I will be reading over and over again, to once again lose myself in the world that this author has created.
March 6, 2021
This enemy to lovers story was captivating. I was mesmerized by
what I initially thought was just another dark mafia story., but I was
so very wrong. This couple burned up the sheets with chemistry so
electrifying that you will be left with goosebumps.
Micah was my kind of anti-hero. A dark, complex man who demands
obedience, but a man with a conscience. He was a man of his word.
Lena was his to play with. She was his to punish. She would learn to
take the good with the bad.
I admired Lena, who was so strong and sassy. The perfect blend of
strength and submission. She knew she lived in a male-dominated
world, but the reality was inconceivable.Her impulsive actions led to
punishments that were hard to accept. Micah’s hard hand eventually
won over her trust.
Peace between the two families was in the hands of Micah and Lena.
They were left paying the price for the sins of their fathers. They lived
in a violent world where families were decimated not only at the hands
of their enemies but also at the hands of their own families.
This book checked all the right boxes for a drool-worthy mafia story.
A dark and compelling love story with “ HELL “ waiting in the wings.
what I initially thought was just another dark mafia story., but I was
so very wrong. This couple burned up the sheets with chemistry so
electrifying that you will be left with goosebumps.
Micah was my kind of anti-hero. A dark, complex man who demands
obedience, but a man with a conscience. He was a man of his word.
Lena was his to play with. She was his to punish. She would learn to
take the good with the bad.
I admired Lena, who was so strong and sassy. The perfect blend of
strength and submission. She knew she lived in a male-dominated
world, but the reality was inconceivable.Her impulsive actions led to
punishments that were hard to accept. Micah’s hard hand eventually
won over her trust.
Peace between the two families was in the hands of Micah and Lena.
They were left paying the price for the sins of their fathers. They lived
in a violent world where families were decimated not only at the hands
of their enemies but also at the hands of their own families.
This book checked all the right boxes for a drool-worthy mafia story.
A dark and compelling love story with “ HELL “ waiting in the wings.
March 10, 2021
3⭐️⭐️⭐️
Style: Dark Mafia Romance
Story: 3/5
Enjoyment: 3.5/5
Dark Level: 1.5/5
Sexual Level: SEX-CITINGLY APPEALING
Triggers: No
Violence: No
Male: Sexy & Intense
Series: Book 2
Pages: 276
Audio: N/A
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
STORY:
I found this storyline appealing. I felt it started out strong, then it went to ok and then appealing again for me. Even though the storyline was touch and go for me, I very much love Micah Ivanov. I found him dominant, sexy, appealing and I love how he took over Lena. Lena is a little sassy but not as strong but seems very smart. I have to say with Micah, even though he has his POV, at times I still didn’t feel I got 100% of his thoughts towards Lena.
CHEMISTRY:
I love Micah sexual attraction towards Lena. I had no complaints with him or her regarding this. His demeanor outside the bedroom is the same inside the bedroom.
SECONDARY CHARACTERS
This story as noted by the author could be a standalone. However, the first book was about Lena’s brother Dominik and his now wife, Kasia. Both characters appear in this book, Kept by Him and it piques my curiosity to check out their story. There were other characters that were appealing that I found interesting.
Overall, this book wasn’t bad, but it wasn’t great. I love the sexual chemistry and look forward to reading more of this series.
***I don’t equate these stories to real life. It’s about personal taste and what you would or want to tolerate with the books you read. I know we all have different opinions and preferences with what we read and hope this review was helpful.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Style: Dark Mafia Romance
Story: 3/5
Enjoyment: 3.5/5
Dark Level: 1.5/5
Sexual Level: SEX-CITINGLY APPEALING
Triggers: No
Violence: No
Male: Sexy & Intense
Series: Book 2
Pages: 276
Audio: N/A
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
STORY:
I found this storyline appealing. I felt it started out strong, then it went to ok and then appealing again for me. Even though the storyline was touch and go for me, I very much love Micah Ivanov. I found him dominant, sexy, appealing and I love how he took over Lena. Lena is a little sassy but not as strong but seems very smart. I have to say with Micah, even though he has his POV, at times I still didn’t feel I got 100% of his thoughts towards Lena.
CHEMISTRY:
I love Micah sexual attraction towards Lena. I had no complaints with him or her regarding this. His demeanor outside the bedroom is the same inside the bedroom.
SECONDARY CHARACTERS
This story as noted by the author could be a standalone. However, the first book was about Lena’s brother Dominik and his now wife, Kasia. Both characters appear in this book, Kept by Him and it piques my curiosity to check out their story. There were other characters that were appealing that I found interesting.
Overall, this book wasn’t bad, but it wasn’t great. I love the sexual chemistry and look forward to reading more of this series.
***I don’t equate these stories to real life. It’s about personal taste and what you would or want to tolerate with the books you read. I know we all have different opinions and preferences with what we read and hope this review was helpful.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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