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The Syndicates #4
Nikolai
Lia
Life has never been fair to me, but I've accepted the hand life has dealt me.
Until that night.
I had no idea I was sneaking into the room of Nikolai Petrov.
As my eyes met his, I knew certain death would follow. I could only hope it was quick.
Except, it never came.
Nikolai
My world is a web of lies and betrayal. When I became Pakhan, I knew the target on my back had grown exponentially.
It's not safe for anyone around me.
Especially not her.
With a war on the horizon, I don't have time for distractions.
So why can't I seem to let her go?
**Some subjects in this book may be triggering. For more information please check our website.
Life has never been fair to me, but I've accepted the hand life has dealt me.
Until that night.
I had no idea I was sneaking into the room of Nikolai Petrov.
As my eyes met his, I knew certain death would follow. I could only hope it was quick.
Except, it never came.
Nikolai
My world is a web of lies and betrayal. When I became Pakhan, I knew the target on my back had grown exponentially.
It's not safe for anyone around me.
Especially not her.
With a war on the horizon, I don't have time for distractions.
So why can't I seem to let her go?
**Some subjects in this book may be triggering. For more information please check our website.
260 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 27, 2022
108 people are currently reading
523 people want to read
About the author
Cala Riley
61 books758 followersCala Riley, better known as Cala and Riley, are a pair of friends with a deep seated love of books and writing. Both Cala and Riley are happily married and each have children, Cala with the four-legged kind while Riley has a mixture of both two-legged and four. While they live apart, that does not affect their connection. They are the true definition of family. What started as an idea that quickly turned into a full-length book and a bond that will never end.
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https://linktr.ee/authorcalariley
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 102 reviews
February 22, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
''Maybe I like to burn''
Safety warnings:
- H 25 / h 18
- No cheating
- No OW/OM drama
- Attempted s*xual assault/abuse
- Mention of r*pe
- Mention of minor assault/r*pe
- Mention of human trafficking
- Exhibition
- Violence/d*ath
- Mention of physical abuse of a minor
- Loss of loved ones
- Branding
- HEA
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
This book is the darkest book in this series (yet).
We meet Felicity aka Lia and she is has been in foster care since she was a child and now that she is a few days away from being 18 her foster father has been attempting to enter her room for a month when he finally does and attempts to assault her but she has a knife her best friend gave her and she stabs him over and over and goes off into the night to her friend but she needs to follow specific instructions to get through the security.
Why?
Well, her best friend’s older brother is the leader of the Russian bratva in California.
She accidentally enters his bedroom instead and this brings forward a long list of series of events that nobody saw coming.
This is definitely a SLOW burn as these two dance around each other for months and they do not have sex until right around the ending of this book. There is some foreplay, but this book focused more on side plots and progression of their feelings/issues rather than the sex of it all.
One thing I was so confused about was how Lia is a nickname for Felicity?? I swear when we read about Felicity when the chapter titles are Lia, you think her identity is hidden and she is the daughter or related to someone special or even mafia connection, but it was just a nickname she used since she was a baby.
Anton being the traitor was obvious when the attack happened but before that moment I swear I never considered it. I swear Nikolai's security is flawed and thankfully it's not brushed aside later, and we get a nice explanation on HOW he fixed it. I’m glad Anton got what he deserved and it was brutal.
The side characters were great, and I really liked Dimitri and Ivanna's banter, their book will be explosive. Can't wait to read it!
There are a few scenes that are hard to get through for some:
1) The scene where Nikolai brands her and tells her it's for her protection but then we find out it's how the men brand their ''pets'' but he does it so nobody would take her (his uncle or the Polish)
2) The scene where they are at the sex/human trafficking club, and they have to put on a short show and the scenes of the women around
3) When Lia and Ivanna are kidnapped, and Lia almost gets assaulted, but we see a young girl (16?) get raped
My reason for the 3.5 stars is because Nikolai compared to Killian/Kai was not my favorite and he made some weird decisions that could have been avoided or talked through.
We do get a nice short epilogue in the near future and Nikolai/Lia are still in love. I also should say that I loved how his sister was NOT against their relationship and there never was any animosity but rather loyalty from her.
''Maybe I like to burn''
Safety warnings:
- H 25 / h 18
- No cheating
- No OW/OM drama
- Attempted s*xual assault/abuse
- Mention of r*pe
- Mention of minor assault/r*pe
- Mention of human trafficking
- Exhibition
- Violence/d*ath
- Mention of physical abuse of a minor
- Loss of loved ones
- Branding
- HEA
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
This book is the darkest book in this series (yet).
We meet Felicity aka Lia and she is has been in foster care since she was a child and now that she is a few days away from being 18 her foster father has been attempting to enter her room for a month when he finally does and attempts to assault her but she has a knife her best friend gave her and she stabs him over and over and goes off into the night to her friend but she needs to follow specific instructions to get through the security.
Why?
Well, her best friend’s older brother is the leader of the Russian bratva in California.
She accidentally enters his bedroom instead and this brings forward a long list of series of events that nobody saw coming.
This is definitely a SLOW burn as these two dance around each other for months and they do not have sex until right around the ending of this book. There is some foreplay, but this book focused more on side plots and progression of their feelings/issues rather than the sex of it all.
One thing I was so confused about was how Lia is a nickname for Felicity?? I swear when we read about Felicity when the chapter titles are Lia, you think her identity is hidden and she is the daughter or related to someone special or even mafia connection, but it was just a nickname she used since she was a baby.
Anton being the traitor was obvious when the attack happened but before that moment I swear I never considered it. I swear Nikolai's security is flawed and thankfully it's not brushed aside later, and we get a nice explanation on HOW he fixed it. I’m glad Anton got what he deserved and it was brutal.
The side characters were great, and I really liked Dimitri and Ivanna's banter, their book will be explosive. Can't wait to read it!
There are a few scenes that are hard to get through for some:
1) The scene where Nikolai brands her and tells her it's for her protection but then we find out it's how the men brand their ''pets'' but he does it so nobody would take her (his uncle or the Polish)
2) The scene where they are at the sex/human trafficking club, and they have to put on a short show and the scenes of the women around
3) When Lia and Ivanna are kidnapped, and Lia almost gets assaulted, but we see a young girl (16?) get raped
My reason for the 3.5 stars is because Nikolai compared to Killian/Kai was not my favorite and he made some weird decisions that could have been avoided or talked through.
We do get a nice short epilogue in the near future and Nikolai/Lia are still in love. I also should say that I loved how his sister was NOT against their relationship and there never was any animosity but rather loyalty from her.
June 22, 2024
I loved the whole trope takes a bullet for him but the dialogues... I kind of expected him to be more strict, more man of little words as he is the mafia boss.
April 6, 2023
Nikolai is the fourth book in The Syndicates series and features Lia and Nikolai. Lia escapes her predator foster father and runs to get help from her best friend. However, she ends up climbing into her best friends brother’s room. Nikolai is NOT pleased that the beauty has found her way through his security and into his bedroom. He wants nothing more than to throw her out to the wolves and move on. But when she saves his life, things change.
Nikolai is an asshole…no doubt about it. He does and says some things you’d like to twist his balls for but he also has a mushy center that he tries to hide. Lia can and is a weakness and he is scared of the future they could have.
Nikolai was sexy and grumpy as hell but I did fall in love with him. Lia was tough as nails but melted for Nikolai in the best way. This was more of a slow burn but I enjoyed the build up. I liked the storyline but I definitely would have liked some more grovel time from Nikolai. If you have triggers, this story had a little more involved so mind those. Overall, a great installment in this series.
Nikolai is an asshole…no doubt about it. He does and says some things you’d like to twist his balls for but he also has a mushy center that he tries to hide. Lia can and is a weakness and he is scared of the future they could have.
“The way I feel about you, kroshka, cannot be expressed in words. Saying I love you is like saying the ocean is like a puddle. The comparison is nowhere near the truth. My feelings for you outweigh everything else in my life. You are more to me. Everything.”
Nikolai was sexy and grumpy as hell but I did fall in love with him. Lia was tough as nails but melted for Nikolai in the best way. This was more of a slow burn but I enjoyed the build up. I liked the storyline but I definitely would have liked some more grovel time from Nikolai. If you have triggers, this story had a little more involved so mind those. Overall, a great installment in this series.
January 27, 2022
My body craves her even though it’s wrong
Nikolai is book 4 in the syndicate series and when I say I love Cala Riley’s mafia men, I mean I LOVE them.
Nikolai is your typical growly alpha and I was here for it. Watching Lia sass him were some of my favourite parts of the book.
Their chemistry was off the scale and the plot had me turning pages and completely hooked with all of the OMG moments.
If you love Mafia then you should definitely check out Nikolai and this series.
Nikolai is book 4 in the syndicate series and when I say I love Cala Riley’s mafia men, I mean I LOVE them.
Nikolai is your typical growly alpha and I was here for it. Watching Lia sass him were some of my favourite parts of the book.
Their chemistry was off the scale and the plot had me turning pages and completely hooked with all of the OMG moments.
If you love Mafia then you should definitely check out Nikolai and this series.
January 29, 2022
3.5 STARS
The story starts out with a bang, I was pulled in right away. It was a really great first scene and situation.
This is a Bratva/Mafia romance that’s lighter than most. I think that will appeal to readers who want a mafia romance that’s not very dark or gritty.
It’s an age gap romance and it’s slow burn. Plenty of sexual tension between the characters. It had an insta care feeling to it. Not love exactly, but more than lust was implied.
Lia has been in foster care most of her life. She is sassy and rebellious.
She really gives Nikolai a run for his money. She constantly challenges his demands.
Nikolai the head of the Bratva in his area, he’s quite young for the position of power.
His sister Ivy (Ivanna) is Lia’s best friend, schoolmate and she also is quite rebellious and mouthy.
Ivy has a fiery relationship with her guard, her brothers second in command. I really liked their dynamic. I think a book about them would be a lot of fun and fiery hot.
I liked the story at times, the sass of the female characters was fun, the exasperation over the unruly girls that the Bratva men showed was funny and the chemistry was definitely hot. Unfortunately, some of it felt immature and unrealistic for a mafia situation.
I felt Lia was much too rebellious and she was disrespectful to Nikolai. I felt either he was weak or it was just unrealistic for the situation.
I thought it was far fetched that he and his men openly discussed that they were Bratva around her.
It had a youthful feel to the story, situations and characters.
I think it will work for a lot of people.
I prefer mafia romance to be darker and more sinister.
Overall, considering the darker nature of the subject matter it was lighter than I expected.
There’s action, suspense, lots of banter and alpha males galore.
Don’t forget those sassy, rebellious girls.
Things were too light and easy for me to fall in love with the characters and story completely.
I think this is a very light, youthful style of mafia romance.
The story starts out with a bang, I was pulled in right away. It was a really great first scene and situation.
This is a Bratva/Mafia romance that’s lighter than most. I think that will appeal to readers who want a mafia romance that’s not very dark or gritty.
It’s an age gap romance and it’s slow burn. Plenty of sexual tension between the characters. It had an insta care feeling to it. Not love exactly, but more than lust was implied.
Lia has been in foster care most of her life. She is sassy and rebellious.
She really gives Nikolai a run for his money. She constantly challenges his demands.
Nikolai the head of the Bratva in his area, he’s quite young for the position of power.
His sister Ivy (Ivanna) is Lia’s best friend, schoolmate and she also is quite rebellious and mouthy.
Ivy has a fiery relationship with her guard, her brothers second in command. I really liked their dynamic. I think a book about them would be a lot of fun and fiery hot.
I liked the story at times, the sass of the female characters was fun, the exasperation over the unruly girls that the Bratva men showed was funny and the chemistry was definitely hot. Unfortunately, some of it felt immature and unrealistic for a mafia situation.
I felt Lia was much too rebellious and she was disrespectful to Nikolai. I felt either he was weak or it was just unrealistic for the situation.
I thought it was far fetched that he and his men openly discussed that they were Bratva around her.
It had a youthful feel to the story, situations and characters.
I think it will work for a lot of people.
I prefer mafia romance to be darker and more sinister.
Overall, considering the darker nature of the subject matter it was lighter than I expected.
There’s action, suspense, lots of banter and alpha males galore.
Don’t forget those sassy, rebellious girls.
Things were too light and easy for me to fall in love with the characters and story completely.
I think this is a very light, youthful style of mafia romance.
January 8, 2022
I'd climb in Nikolai's window any day of the week!
Nikolai is book 4 in The Syndicates series and this series gets better and better with each book. I'm struggling to even say I have a favorite anymore. I LOVE them all!
Nikolai is a brother's best friend, age gap romance that leaves you needing more. Cala and Riley deliver an amazing book while setting up other books in the series.
Nikolai is the sexy as sin head of the Russian Mafia. He's feared by most.
Felicity is fiesty, and sassy and doesn't take shit from anyone, including the head of the Russian Mafia. But that doesn't mean that Nikolai is a pushover. He's anything but, even with Felicity. The push and pull between these two is so much fun to read.
Lies and betrayal run deep and when lines are crossed you have to wonder if mistakes can be undone. Can Nik and Felicity's relationship come back from all the hurt? And why did I still love Nikolai even after he's giant asshole?
Mafia romance is one of my favorite and Cala Riley deliver some of my favorites. They know how to hook a reader from start to finish and leave them wanting more.
Nikolai is an amazing, 5 star, must read!
Nikolai is book 4 in The Syndicates series and this series gets better and better with each book. I'm struggling to even say I have a favorite anymore. I LOVE them all!
Nikolai is a brother's best friend, age gap romance that leaves you needing more. Cala and Riley deliver an amazing book while setting up other books in the series.
Nikolai is the sexy as sin head of the Russian Mafia. He's feared by most.
Felicity is fiesty, and sassy and doesn't take shit from anyone, including the head of the Russian Mafia. But that doesn't mean that Nikolai is a pushover. He's anything but, even with Felicity. The push and pull between these two is so much fun to read.
Lies and betrayal run deep and when lines are crossed you have to wonder if mistakes can be undone. Can Nik and Felicity's relationship come back from all the hurt? And why did I still love Nikolai even after he's giant asshole?
Mafia romance is one of my favorite and Cala Riley deliver some of my favorites. They know how to hook a reader from start to finish and leave them wanting more.
Nikolai is an amazing, 5 star, must read!
January 27, 2022
I have never read a Cala Riley book before. And let me tell you something…I am kicking myself all over the place for not diving in to their books sooner. Like where the heck have I been? They have everything I love in a good book. Mafia/Bratva? Check. Romance? Absolutely. Juicy plot? Most definitely.
I loved how the book captivated me from the start. It grabbed ahold of me and didn’t let up until the very end. Seriously. I read the book in less than a day. Even now, a day later, and it still hasn’t loosened it’s hold. I want more. I want more of all the characters. I want to go back through the series and see what I have missed out on.
The romance was such a delicious slow burn. Usually I am all for those insta-romances. But can appreciate a good, well written slow burn. It has to be just right though. And this one was. It pushed and pulled in all the right places making you crave the scenes Nikolai and Felicity were together. And missing them in the scenes they weren’t.
Ok, enough rambling from me. I am definitely going to be searching out more of their work. These new to me authors are stuck with me now. 5 Stars!
I loved how the book captivated me from the start. It grabbed ahold of me and didn’t let up until the very end. Seriously. I read the book in less than a day. Even now, a day later, and it still hasn’t loosened it’s hold. I want more. I want more of all the characters. I want to go back through the series and see what I have missed out on.
The romance was such a delicious slow burn. Usually I am all for those insta-romances. But can appreciate a good, well written slow burn. It has to be just right though. And this one was. It pushed and pulled in all the right places making you crave the scenes Nikolai and Felicity were together. And missing them in the scenes they weren’t.
Ok, enough rambling from me. I am definitely going to be searching out more of their work. These new to me authors are stuck with me now. 5 Stars!
June 11, 2022
2.5
Disappointed
up till 55% i was going to give it 4 stars but then instead of improving their connection it all went flat to the point i was considering DNF it but i was already invested so i needed to see how it will end..
well disappointing, no wedding, no engagement, no kids...
basically she pinned more for him ...he was good at first but then he just was cold , i dunno
they didnt work so good anymore
Disappointed
up till 55% i was going to give it 4 stars but then instead of improving their connection it all went flat to the point i was considering DNF it but i was already invested so i needed to see how it will end..
well disappointing, no wedding, no engagement, no kids...
basically she pinned more for him ...he was good at first but then he just was cold , i dunno
they didnt work so good anymore
January 12, 2022
This book starts off intense & doesn’t let up till the very last page! Plus the sexual tension between Lia & Nikolai is off the charts!
Lia has been through so much in her life & so has Nikolai. It helps them understand each other when they come from two different worlds. But boy does Lia fit into Nikolai’s world! She packs a punch & lights Nikolai’s life on fire. I really enjoyed their story, I hope we see more of them in future books. I can’t wait to read about the trouble Nikolai’s little sister is going to get into!
Lia has been through so much in her life & so has Nikolai. It helps them understand each other when they come from two different worlds. But boy does Lia fit into Nikolai’s world! She packs a punch & lights Nikolai’s life on fire. I really enjoyed their story, I hope we see more of them in future books. I can’t wait to read about the trouble Nikolai’s little sister is going to get into!
April 11, 2024
“Best friend’s brother” is one of my favorite tropes, but I cared more about the side characters than the main characters. I didn’t really find anything unique about Nik and Lia was mouthing off a lot in the beginning when she wasn’t in a position to be doing so which was an ick for me.
Potential SA of the main character (Lia) by outside characters is a huge plot point of this book, and while I am aware that the skin trade is a thing IRL with organized crime, I don’t want it in the fictional romance books I read. There’s a scene where Lia gets branded for her “protection”and then she and Nik have to put on a “show”—like in ACOMAF— I did not like that at all. Also wasn’t a fan of the SA that occurs on page of a 16 year old girl.
Side note: while these books are enjoyable, all 4 I’ve now read have grammar errors. Whoever their editor is needs to be fired and they need to hire someone new to go through and reedit the books. Also, the virgin trope is getting stale at this point.
Potential SA of the main character (Lia) by outside characters is a huge plot point of this book, and while I am aware that the skin trade is a thing IRL with organized crime, I don’t want it in the fictional romance books I read. There’s a scene where Lia gets branded for her “protection”and then she and Nik have to put on a “show”—like in ACOMAF— I did not like that at all. Also wasn’t a fan of the SA that occurs on page of a 16 year old girl.
Side note: while these books are enjoyable, all 4 I’ve now read have grammar errors. Whoever their editor is needs to be fired and they need to hire someone new to go through and reedit the books. Also, the virgin trope is getting stale at this point.
January 14, 2023
Nikolai was pure campy goodness, and I mean that in the best possible way. It’s a steamy mafia romance with a few dark elements. I really enjoyed reading the push and pull between Nikolai and Lia. Loved the power imbalance and almost captivity nature of their relationship. A fun read.
January 16, 2022
ARC review !
I loved Lia and Nik’s story! these two are definitely made for each other!
Lia, just shy of her eighteen birthday runs away from her foster home to escape the abuse she’s been experiencing. Her best friend tell hers she can come stay her place, but when Lia breaks into the wrong bedroom she’s in for a surprise.
Nik, is the feared leader of the mafia. gets quite the wake up call when a stranger breaks into his bedroom window, and from the moment he sees her, he knows she’s trouble. she isnt scared to mouth back, and lights a fire in Nik’s cold heart.
the sexual tension is high between these two! and it definitely makes up for it!
this book was a quick read but it was amazing and i couldnt put it down! thank you so much for the chance to read! i cannot wait for the next book in the series
I loved Lia and Nik’s story! these two are definitely made for each other!
Lia, just shy of her eighteen birthday runs away from her foster home to escape the abuse she’s been experiencing. Her best friend tell hers she can come stay her place, but when Lia breaks into the wrong bedroom she’s in for a surprise.
Nik, is the feared leader of the mafia. gets quite the wake up call when a stranger breaks into his bedroom window, and from the moment he sees her, he knows she’s trouble. she isnt scared to mouth back, and lights a fire in Nik’s cold heart.
the sexual tension is high between these two! and it definitely makes up for it!
this book was a quick read but it was amazing and i couldnt put it down! thank you so much for the chance to read! i cannot wait for the next book in the series
January 9, 2022
Nikolai Book #4 in the Syndicates series. It was absolutely everything I had hoped for and more!
For a while now I've being seeing and sharing teasers for this book.
OMG.. WOW! ❤🔥❤
Lia is a fiesty sassy young woman
The life she has led until now was not an easy one. So she doesn't take crap from anyone.
Especially a Russian Mafia Boss.
Nikolai is instantly attracted to the fiesty woman who stumbled through his bedroom window.
But it's a major security breach and there are consequences for that!
There is a war brewing though...and an even bigger one for Nikolai....
He can't seem to let Lia go.
I loved the banter and the battle of wills between them.
Nikolai is so freaking Hot.
Who wouldn't want to "accidentally" climb though his window?
I couldn't help but love Nikolai's Sister (Lia's bestfriend) either.
Ivanna, She was crazy fun and super duper loyal.
Always in a constant battle with Nikolai's second in command.😆
Also I did a happy dance and I'm so over the moon to know there are more books. YASSSSS!!
I definitely recommend everyone read this book. This SERIES!!!
For a while now I've being seeing and sharing teasers for this book.
OMG.. WOW! ❤🔥❤
Lia is a fiesty sassy young woman
The life she has led until now was not an easy one. So she doesn't take crap from anyone.
Especially a Russian Mafia Boss.
Nikolai is instantly attracted to the fiesty woman who stumbled through his bedroom window.
But it's a major security breach and there are consequences for that!
There is a war brewing though...and an even bigger one for Nikolai....
He can't seem to let Lia go.
I loved the banter and the battle of wills between them.
Nikolai is so freaking Hot.
Who wouldn't want to "accidentally" climb though his window?
I couldn't help but love Nikolai's Sister (Lia's bestfriend) either.
Ivanna, She was crazy fun and super duper loyal.
Always in a constant battle with Nikolai's second in command.😆
Also I did a happy dance and I'm so over the moon to know there are more books. YASSSSS!!
I definitely recommend everyone read this book. This SERIES!!!
February 8, 2022
I wanted more from this book. This series has been pretty solid-but this book had the opportunity to really take the mafia/bratva romance out of the waters, and it was SUPER light-not very angst, and a bit juvenile for the genre. I wanted this author to write her characters with a bit less reservation-Nikolai was just okay for me, and as a leader, I think he should have been a bit more broody and cater less towards bratty attitudes. The dialogue felt a bit forced throughout the book-and I had to keep remembering their ages, as it felt they were super immature.Again, the series has been good so far, and even though this one wasn’t for me, it’s a perfectly good read if you’re looking for a light mafia romance.
January 30, 2022
Nikolai is the fourth book in Cala Riley's Syndicate series and it does not disappoint. Each book in this series is gripping and a must-read. Lia and Nik's story is one that is full of chemistry from the minute that they meet. He is the grumpy dominant type and Lia is a young lady that is fighting for her life.
Lia has been in the system since she was nine and has gone from one foster home to another unfortunately the last one she was in was the worst. Her foster father was trying to have his way with her and thankfully she got away. Where does she end up? Lia ends up scaling the wall and into the bedroom of the leader of the Russian Bratva, Nikolai, not his sister's, Ivanna, bedroom. Is this the beginning of the end or the beginning of a new life that she could love? Lia pushes Nik's buttons but knows that he will not hurt her. While living with him and Ivanna, she is exposed to things that she never thought she would be. His life is so different and she feels like a prisoner. As time goes on, will her attraction to Nik become something she cannot fight? When danger presents itself, what will she do?
Nikolai has to always show that he is the ruler and to be feared. When he wakes up to a strange woman in his room, he needs to find out who she is and how she got past the guards and cameras. Finding out that his sister knows her and told her how to breach security, he calms down a bit. The only problem is she is beautiful and is feisty. When he finds out why she is there he wants to help her out. He comes across to the public as a ruthless man but Lia sees a completely different side of him. Can he be helping her because he is attracted to her? Will she want to live the life of a Bratva woman? When he feels she is in danger, he does something but is not truthful to her on why he did what he did. Can he keep away from her? He is fighting the need to be with her since she is so young and she is not from his world. When danger strikes, what will he do?
Nikolai is a heart-stopping, suspense-filled romance that grabs your attention right from the start. Cala Riley gives us a different story than the regular mafia, dark romance books that are out there. They deliver a book that is not as dark as other mafia stories but is still intriguing, gripping and has you sitting on the edge of your seat. Nikolai is a must-read as well as the rest of the series.
Lia has been in the system since she was nine and has gone from one foster home to another unfortunately the last one she was in was the worst. Her foster father was trying to have his way with her and thankfully she got away. Where does she end up? Lia ends up scaling the wall and into the bedroom of the leader of the Russian Bratva, Nikolai, not his sister's, Ivanna, bedroom. Is this the beginning of the end or the beginning of a new life that she could love? Lia pushes Nik's buttons but knows that he will not hurt her. While living with him and Ivanna, she is exposed to things that she never thought she would be. His life is so different and she feels like a prisoner. As time goes on, will her attraction to Nik become something she cannot fight? When danger presents itself, what will she do?
Nikolai has to always show that he is the ruler and to be feared. When he wakes up to a strange woman in his room, he needs to find out who she is and how she got past the guards and cameras. Finding out that his sister knows her and told her how to breach security, he calms down a bit. The only problem is she is beautiful and is feisty. When he finds out why she is there he wants to help her out. He comes across to the public as a ruthless man but Lia sees a completely different side of him. Can he be helping her because he is attracted to her? Will she want to live the life of a Bratva woman? When he feels she is in danger, he does something but is not truthful to her on why he did what he did. Can he keep away from her? He is fighting the need to be with her since she is so young and she is not from his world. When danger strikes, what will he do?
Nikolai is a heart-stopping, suspense-filled romance that grabs your attention right from the start. Cala Riley gives us a different story than the regular mafia, dark romance books that are out there. They deliver a book that is not as dark as other mafia stories but is still intriguing, gripping and has you sitting on the edge of your seat. Nikolai is a must-read as well as the rest of the series.
January 31, 2022
I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.
Lia
Life has never been fair to me, but I've accepted the hand life has dealt me. Until that night. I had no idea I was sneaking into the room of Nikolai Petrov. As my eyes met his, I knew certain death would follow. I could only hope it was quick. Except it never came.
Nikolai
My world is a web of lies and betrayal. When I became Pakhan, I knew the target on my back had grown exponentially. It's not safe for anyone to be around me. Especially not her. With a war on the horizon, I don't have time for distractions. So why can't I seem to let her go?
This is the fourth book in The Syndicate Series from Cala Riley. You need to read the first three books too. It is a age gap mafia romance. This is the story of Nikolai and Lia. This story really starts out with a huge bang and your hooked from that moment on. Lia is a girl that has been in foster care for most of her life. So her life has never ever been really easy for her and because of this I think it made her super rebellious and so so sassy. Man that girl is really sassy!! Nikolai is the head of the Bratva where he lives and is young to be in that powerful of a position but the man has some serious enemies and is convinced that anyone around his is a target. That broke my heart because gosh what a lonely life this guy must really lead. Surrounded by people but no one you really are close to or trust with all your heart. I don't even know that guys do that it just sounded like something they need to do if they don't. When he meet Lia when she enters the wrong room she knows that she is dead but he doesn't do it. Instead he is very interested in her and wants her. I wouldn't call it a love at first sight thing its more like a I like what I see and I must have her kind of thing. Lia is also his sister Ivy's best friend. And from that moment on it is on and I have to say that Lia gives him a run for his money. I really loved their back and forth and the moments they had together I also really loved the way that Cala Riley writes her mafia men. They are just pure magice and I read and loved all four of these books in one go.
Lia
Life has never been fair to me, but I've accepted the hand life has dealt me. Until that night. I had no idea I was sneaking into the room of Nikolai Petrov. As my eyes met his, I knew certain death would follow. I could only hope it was quick. Except it never came.
Nikolai
My world is a web of lies and betrayal. When I became Pakhan, I knew the target on my back had grown exponentially. It's not safe for anyone to be around me. Especially not her. With a war on the horizon, I don't have time for distractions. So why can't I seem to let her go?
This is the fourth book in The Syndicate Series from Cala Riley. You need to read the first three books too. It is a age gap mafia romance. This is the story of Nikolai and Lia. This story really starts out with a huge bang and your hooked from that moment on. Lia is a girl that has been in foster care for most of her life. So her life has never ever been really easy for her and because of this I think it made her super rebellious and so so sassy. Man that girl is really sassy!! Nikolai is the head of the Bratva where he lives and is young to be in that powerful of a position but the man has some serious enemies and is convinced that anyone around his is a target. That broke my heart because gosh what a lonely life this guy must really lead. Surrounded by people but no one you really are close to or trust with all your heart. I don't even know that guys do that it just sounded like something they need to do if they don't. When he meet Lia when she enters the wrong room she knows that she is dead but he doesn't do it. Instead he is very interested in her and wants her. I wouldn't call it a love at first sight thing its more like a I like what I see and I must have her kind of thing. Lia is also his sister Ivy's best friend. And from that moment on it is on and I have to say that Lia gives him a run for his money. I really loved their back and forth and the moments they had together I also really loved the way that Cala Riley writes her mafia men. They are just pure magice and I read and loved all four of these books in one go.
February 3, 2022
Wow! Another page turner yet again by this author, the more we read her stories, the more we fall in love with her works.
Nikolai story had a fantastic cast of characters, even through Lia/Felicity and Nik stole the show the side characters really played an important part in the story as well, making it a huge success.
This was one of my favorites from this author.
My favorite character was Lia she was a firecracker, she was sassy, and strong and brave, we loved her wicked sense of humor, we loved her offhanded remarks, and we loved that she really wasn't as scared as she should have been when it came to Nik. Another word comes to mind is she is a little scrapper, and Ivanna was no slouch either. She was another strong and fierce woman who is a bit of a rebel. LOL
Loved her with her bodyguard Dimitri, we have a feeling something brewing there, and we can't wait to see what happens. Loved Maxim with Lia it was like all these mobsters fell for this little slip of a girl and she for them.
Nic and Lia chemistry was off the charts! Can you say HOT!
We loved them together and how they were drawn to one another and considering who Nik was we loved that he was a different softer Nik in Lia presence, perhaps she soothed his soul in some way. We loved how they developed as a couple so naturally. Smoking hot together in or out of the bedroom.
Overall for us, we thought this was a fantastic read, and we loved it from cover to cover we loved the mystery and suspense betrayals left and right, justice served, friendships developed that will last a lifetime. Loved that Ivanna and Lia were little rebels, even if it was hazardous to the safety. But, most of all, we loved the ending to a ready awesome story. We hope that it isn't the last or end to seeing these characters again, and we are hoping somewhere down the line that Ivanna gets her story staring Dimitri perhaps? This would be so mouth watering tale.LOL
Nikolai story had a fantastic cast of characters, even through Lia/Felicity and Nik stole the show the side characters really played an important part in the story as well, making it a huge success.
This was one of my favorites from this author.
My favorite character was Lia she was a firecracker, she was sassy, and strong and brave, we loved her wicked sense of humor, we loved her offhanded remarks, and we loved that she really wasn't as scared as she should have been when it came to Nik. Another word comes to mind is she is a little scrapper, and Ivanna was no slouch either. She was another strong and fierce woman who is a bit of a rebel. LOL
Loved her with her bodyguard Dimitri, we have a feeling something brewing there, and we can't wait to see what happens. Loved Maxim with Lia it was like all these mobsters fell for this little slip of a girl and she for them.
Nic and Lia chemistry was off the charts! Can you say HOT!
We loved them together and how they were drawn to one another and considering who Nik was we loved that he was a different softer Nik in Lia presence, perhaps she soothed his soul in some way. We loved how they developed as a couple so naturally. Smoking hot together in or out of the bedroom.
Overall for us, we thought this was a fantastic read, and we loved it from cover to cover we loved the mystery and suspense betrayals left and right, justice served, friendships developed that will last a lifetime. Loved that Ivanna and Lia were little rebels, even if it was hazardous to the safety. But, most of all, we loved the ending to a ready awesome story. We hope that it isn't the last or end to seeing these characters again, and we are hoping somewhere down the line that Ivanna gets her story staring Dimitri perhaps? This would be so mouth watering tale.LOL
January 20, 2022
What happens when you are on the run from a truly evil person only to step foot into the head of the Bratva’s bedroom uninvited? This is where Lia finds herself and Nikolai doesn’t trust her motives, story, anything and where he would normally eliminate the threat he finds himself intrigued by her. When Nik finds out that she is actually friends with his sister and left behind the worst situation for anyone in foster care he finds a need to help her but send her on her way because he doesn’t need any complications while running his empire. Lia is feisty and can hold her own and this just adds more to Nik’s interest in her yet he knows his lifestyle is not for someone like her. They go back and forth between attraction and hate but when Lia puts her life on the line and saves Nik’s life will things change or will Nik stick to his plan to send her away? When betrayal occurs and backs are against the wall will they find help in each other or will things fall apart because trust is not easily given let alone given twice. I loved this story because it had such strong characters, alpha broody mafia guys that would do anything to protect them, and Nik wasn’t like many mafia leaders I have read about. He was strong, relentless, could be cruel at times, but he would show some leniency and mercy if the occasion called for it and he had a heart of gold willing to help others or those he loved. A great read with a lot of twists and turns that kept me glued all the way through. I really hope we get a story about Dimitri and Ivy.
January 25, 2022
4.5 Stars
A young heroine wise beyond her years due to life’s circumstances, Lia escapes one nightmare believing she has stumbled into a new one that is just a bit less scary to her personally. As this story unfolds she learns to trust her instincts, trust others and see the world in a different light.
Nikolai has all the responsibility as the young head of the Bratva. He is a fierce but understanding leader who adores his sister and wants to do his best to keep her happy and safe, so when her best friend shows up needing help he offers assistance despite his own concerns. When she becomes more important to him for various reasons he winds up needing to keep the women in his life safe while staying alive.
Readers prepare for an entertaining story that will have you turning pages and loving every word. I truly hope to get more stories with these characters in the near future!
Cara - Alphas Do It Better Book Blog
A young heroine wise beyond her years due to life’s circumstances, Lia escapes one nightmare believing she has stumbled into a new one that is just a bit less scary to her personally. As this story unfolds she learns to trust her instincts, trust others and see the world in a different light.
Nikolai has all the responsibility as the young head of the Bratva. He is a fierce but understanding leader who adores his sister and wants to do his best to keep her happy and safe, so when her best friend shows up needing help he offers assistance despite his own concerns. When she becomes more important to him for various reasons he winds up needing to keep the women in his life safe while staying alive.
Readers prepare for an entertaining story that will have you turning pages and loving every word. I truly hope to get more stories with these characters in the near future!
Cara - Alphas Do It Better Book Blog
January 30, 2022
Nikolai is the fourth book in the Syndicate series by Cala Riley and I enjoyed every moment reading it. It is of course a mafia book that involves the California bratva and it’s young boss Nikolai and an eighteen year old orphan Lia. Their surprise meeting and the push and pull between them is delicious and exciting. Nikolai is not a typical cold hearted Russian boss. He is actually a fair man with a conscience who just has to wear a stone mask to do his job. Lia, on the other hand, is not a demure, weak orphan but a fiery and fierce young woman with a strong-head. Their chemistry is off the charts 🔥 and the circumstances that involve them are thrilling and intoxicating. The side characters are also pretty involved and they probably deserve their own book😍. If you like mafia books with lots of chemistry and action, Nikolai is the way to go.
February 9, 2022
Let me start by saying I love this series. I love getting to see the inner workings of the different syndicates in the mafia world. Also while being somewhat dark, none of them are overpowering or make me want to stop reading.
Nikolai is probably my favorite one so far. I think it is because Lia is such a strong female lead. She has had a rough life but she refuses to be a victim.
And the there is Nik, the head of the Bratva. He can be harsh and ruthless, but he does not lead with an iron fist. He shows respect to his men and is very protective of those he loves. When Lia steps in front of a bullet meant for him she earns his respect, loyalty and as time goes by, his love.
I just loved this story so much. These two were such likable characters and the side tease of a romance between Dimitri and Ivanna made this a great read.
Nikolai is probably my favorite one so far. I think it is because Lia is such a strong female lead. She has had a rough life but she refuses to be a victim.
And the there is Nik, the head of the Bratva. He can be harsh and ruthless, but he does not lead with an iron fist. He shows respect to his men and is very protective of those he loves. When Lia steps in front of a bullet meant for him she earns his respect, loyalty and as time goes by, his love.
I just loved this story so much. These two were such likable characters and the side tease of a romance between Dimitri and Ivanna made this a great read.
January 28, 2022
Did I just read a slow-burn mafia romance? Yup. How was it? Loved this!
I love a gruff man and the girl who won't take any of his sh*t.
Lia has to run for her life and she runs to her best friend's compound recalling the instructions she was given to slip in undetected. But she never expected to come face to face with Nikolai Petrov. She's resigned to whatever comes next but she wasn't expecting him to take her in.
Nikolai's world is dangerous. As the Pakhan, he has a large target on his back. So he doesn't trust Lia at first but he can't figure out why he feels this attraction to her. He doesn't need the distraction. But when she puts her body between him and danger, something shifts and he's not sure he'll ever be able to let her go.
Thanks so much to author and Wildfire for this ARC to review
I love a gruff man and the girl who won't take any of his sh*t.
Lia has to run for her life and she runs to her best friend's compound recalling the instructions she was given to slip in undetected. But she never expected to come face to face with Nikolai Petrov. She's resigned to whatever comes next but she wasn't expecting him to take her in.
Nikolai's world is dangerous. As the Pakhan, he has a large target on his back. So he doesn't trust Lia at first but he can't figure out why he feels this attraction to her. He doesn't need the distraction. But when she puts her body between him and danger, something shifts and he's not sure he'll ever be able to let her go.
Thanks so much to author and Wildfire for this ARC to review
January 27, 2022
UM OK HELLO CALA RILEY?!?!?! I have never read these wonderful ladies but I LOVE IT. This was a *chef's kiss* of a mafia read. Mafia Romances are my favorite no question. This book was fast paced, slow burn, age gap but not, and action packed! I couldn't put it down! The only reason it took me a couple days to finish it was because I had to work. Boo, maybe one day I can just read and write reviews for my job?!?!?! lol. ANYWAY, this book is a part of the Syndicate series and focus's on the Russian Bratva, which I really enjoyed most of the Mafia romances that I have read thus far are usually a combo of the Italians and Russians or Irish. But I did enjoy the fully Russian side of things. I am soooo looking forward to reading the other books of the Syndicate! I read Nikolai as a standalone, all can be read as a standalone but various points are mentioned from other books in the series. I received this book as an ARC. All opinions are my own!
January 26, 2022
I love a good Bratva book. Watching the tough alpha-hole hero fall for the only woman who can bring him to his knees is my all time favorite. Nik may not be the cold hearted killer that his father expected him to be but the gentler side that few get to see made him the best thing to ever happen to Lia. Lia was an awesome heroine. Able to take care of her self to a fault and loyal to no end. I loved her sass and smart mouth. The banter and tension between her and Nik was on a whole new level! But what I am really looking forward to now is Ivanna and Dimitri’s story, I have a feeling it’s going to be epic!!!
January 30, 2022
I loved Lia and Nik’s story! It's absolutely enthralling and gripping. Lia ended up in Nik's protection when she ran away from her nightmare. The instant these two met, they felt a connection between each other. However, Nikolai would never want to show any kind of weakness so he tried so hard to not go there with her. And for Lia, she knows she's going to be sent away afterwards anyway. So there was quite a push and pull between them. Cala Riley is fast becoming my auto-read author for mafia romances because they just write it differently, it's not like typical mafia romance.
I hope we get Dimitri and Ivanna's story! The tension between them is definitely burning and scorching hot.
I hope we get Dimitri and Ivanna's story! The tension between them is definitely burning and scorching hot.
January 25, 2022
Holy mother - I was sucked in from the beginning with Nik and Lia’s story.
Cala and Riley ramped up the suspense in this one and has continued to build a world of characters I find myself loving more and more.
Lia is a spitfire who chose to fight to survive rather than crumble when her life took a turn for the worse. She’s brave, smart, sassy and stronger than she seems - I adore her.
Nikolai is the head of the Bratva - refusing to be the cold and heartless leader his father was, he leads his men in a better way. He may appear to be cold, but he is truly a leader with heart that is huge.
I love how Lia didn’t back down from Nik, she continued to speak her mind even after she found out who he was. The chemistry between these two is just insane - the push and pull had me glued to my kindle dying to see what happened next. I loved watching these two grow and go from pushing one another away to holding each other close. The respect and love they develop for one another is just swoon-worthy.
Their story is fast paced, but didn’t feel rushed and played out like a dream. I loved the suspense and build up (I swear my kindle was crackling at some point from the sexual tension) - and when the fireworks happened, I melted. I really enjoyed how involved the side characters were without overtaking the main ones. This series just keeps getting better and I can’t wait to see what these two Queens have in store for Enzo
Cala and Riley ramped up the suspense in this one and has continued to build a world of characters I find myself loving more and more.
Lia is a spitfire who chose to fight to survive rather than crumble when her life took a turn for the worse. She’s brave, smart, sassy and stronger than she seems - I adore her.
Nikolai is the head of the Bratva - refusing to be the cold and heartless leader his father was, he leads his men in a better way. He may appear to be cold, but he is truly a leader with heart that is huge.
I love how Lia didn’t back down from Nik, she continued to speak her mind even after she found out who he was. The chemistry between these two is just insane - the push and pull had me glued to my kindle dying to see what happened next. I loved watching these two grow and go from pushing one another away to holding each other close. The respect and love they develop for one another is just swoon-worthy.
Their story is fast paced, but didn’t feel rushed and played out like a dream. I loved the suspense and build up (I swear my kindle was crackling at some point from the sexual tension) - and when the fireworks happened, I melted. I really enjoyed how involved the side characters were without overtaking the main ones. This series just keeps getting better and I can’t wait to see what these two Queens have in store for Enzo
January 16, 2022
Nikolia was always going to be something special, and Cala Riley didn't disappoint, Nik and Lia's story is a potent mixture, dark and brooding one minute and hot and all-consuming the next, so be prepared for this intense journey.
The Syndicates Series has produced such different storylines and such different types of couples, but they all have had their own uniqueness and the same can be said about Nik and Lia's story, the only difference with this one, is that Cala Riley tantalises you with this couples chemistry, they tease you, they built up the chemistry and then they snatch it away as we are taken on a journey of intrigue, danger and betrayal all the while Lia and Nik try and fight the attraction that is growing stronger every day.
Lia is best friends with Niks sister, they go to college together and when Lia needs Ivanna's help she is there for her, which leads Lia into the den of Nikolai and the mafia, Lia has been through a lot in her short young life and now she is trying to deal with her ever-growing feelings for Nik but waiting for the time when he sends her away, Nik knows it is dangerous for him to be with Lia but she brings out a protective side to him that has his blood boiling like nobody before.
Nikolai is a hot slow burn, dark mafia romance, one that once started you won't want to put down.
January 15, 2022
“I own you now “
I received a copy of this arc in exchange for my honest review. Nikolai is a standalone book in the Syndicates series. This book starts out fast and intense. Lia is running away from her foster family and ends up climbing into Nikolai’s window for safety, only to find it is his bedroom, by mistake. He’s dangerous and part of a large crime organization. She knew immediately she was in danger with him and he didn’t plan to keep her around for long. Neither expects the attraction between the two them. Nikolai is determined to keep her safe, no matter how much Lia wants to rebel against his demands and push his buttons. The sexual tension between these two is insane. When Lia is put in serious danger from Nikolai’s enemies, all his rules regarding her become unhinged and his only focus is on saving her and his sister ( her bestfriend). I can’t go into the storyline much more without giving away the whole story and plot. This book can be read in order of the series or as a standalone. It’s a fast paced page turner with a major slow burn. I absolutely loved this book and highly recommend ! This is my second book by this author, and again I was hooked immediately. I can’t wait to read more from her!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I received a copy of this arc in exchange for my honest review. Nikolai is a standalone book in the Syndicates series. This book starts out fast and intense. Lia is running away from her foster family and ends up climbing into Nikolai’s window for safety, only to find it is his bedroom, by mistake. He’s dangerous and part of a large crime organization. She knew immediately she was in danger with him and he didn’t plan to keep her around for long. Neither expects the attraction between the two them. Nikolai is determined to keep her safe, no matter how much Lia wants to rebel against his demands and push his buttons. The sexual tension between these two is insane. When Lia is put in serious danger from Nikolai’s enemies, all his rules regarding her become unhinged and his only focus is on saving her and his sister ( her bestfriend). I can’t go into the storyline much more without giving away the whole story and plot. This book can be read in order of the series or as a standalone. It’s a fast paced page turner with a major slow burn. I absolutely loved this book and highly recommend ! This is my second book by this author, and again I was hooked immediately. I can’t wait to read more from her!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
February 9, 2022
Loved this! If mafia is your thing then you’ll love this too! I was invested from beginning to end and couldn’t get enough!
The characters and action and everything in between was so good. I definitely recommend this!
The characters and action and everything in between was so good. I definitely recommend this!
January 16, 2022
Best friends brother and age gap…sign me up! Every book in The Syndicate series is so so good, just when you think you can’t live a character any more this duo shoves another sexy, dominant possessive man at you and makes you weak in the knees.
I was sucked into Nikolai and Lia’s story from page one, it’s a one sitting read because you will not be able to look away. The banter is amazing, the tension is thick and the suspense is perfectly done. Nikolai is the leader of the Bratva but his past has him doing things differently- he’s compassionate but still leads with a lead fist. Lia’s past is much the same and has led her right into the wolfs den.
One thing I love about this duo is they will never give you a FMC that doesn’t fight with everything she has and Lia does exactly that. This is a slow burn but when it catches fire it will have your kindle smoking. Another job well done by some of my favorites.
I was sucked into Nikolai and Lia’s story from page one, it’s a one sitting read because you will not be able to look away. The banter is amazing, the tension is thick and the suspense is perfectly done. Nikolai is the leader of the Bratva but his past has him doing things differently- he’s compassionate but still leads with a lead fist. Lia’s past is much the same and has led her right into the wolfs den.
One thing I love about this duo is they will never give you a FMC that doesn’t fight with everything she has and Lia does exactly that. This is a slow burn but when it catches fire it will have your kindle smoking. Another job well done by some of my favorites.
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