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Ruthless Obsession #3
Sweet Savagery
I was a savage bent on claiming her as punishment for her family's mistakes.
As a powerful Russian Arms dealer, no one steals from me and gets away with it.
She was an innocent pawn in a dangerous game.
She had no idea the package her uncle sent her from Russia contained my stolen money.
If I were a good man, I would let her return the money and leave.
If I were a gentleman, I might even let her keep some of it just for frightening her.
As I stared down at the beautiful living doll stretched out before me like a virgin sacrifice, I thanked God for every sin and misdeed that had blackened my cold heart.
I was not a good man.
I sure as hell wasn’t a gentleman… and I had no intention of letting her go.
She was mine now.
And no one takes what's mine.
As a powerful Russian Arms dealer, no one steals from me and gets away with it.
She was an innocent pawn in a dangerous game.
She had no idea the package her uncle sent her from Russia contained my stolen money.
If I were a good man, I would let her return the money and leave.
If I were a gentleman, I might even let her keep some of it just for frightening her.
As I stared down at the beautiful living doll stretched out before me like a virgin sacrifice, I thanked God for every sin and misdeed that had blackened my cold heart.
I was not a good man.
I sure as hell wasn’t a gentleman… and I had no intention of letting her go.
She was mine now.
And no one takes what's mine.
300 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 7, 2021
1494 people are currently reading
3951 people want to read
About the author
Zoe Blake
92 books3,132 followersZoe Blake is the USA Today Bestselling Author of the romantic suspense saga The Cavalieri Billionaire Legacy inspired by her own heritage as well as her obsession with jewelry, travel, and the salacious gossip of history’s most infamous families.
She delights in writing Dark Romance books filled with overly possessive billionaires, taboo scenes, and unexpected twists. She usually spends her ill-gotten gains on martinis, vacations, and red lipstick.
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/zoeblakebooks/
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/zoeblakebooks/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@zoeblakebooks
She delights in writing Dark Romance books filled with overly possessive billionaires, taboo scenes, and unexpected twists. She usually spends her ill-gotten gains on martinis, vacations, and red lipstick.
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/zoeblakebooks/
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/zoeblakebooks/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@zoeblakebooks
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 447 reviews
October 10, 2021
***4 STARS***
How does a writer make dub con romantic? I’ve always hated it but this author does such a good job of writing it.
Dylan (heroine) was sent $500,000 through the mail by her uncle. The money didn’t belong to him but belonged to Russian arms dealer/criminal Ivan. And he wants his money. He shows up at Dylan’s door and the magic happens.
Be warned that this is smut to the smuttiest degree. The sex gets primal and there is a lot of taking off the belt for punishments. If you have read Zoe Blake before you should be ok. If not this book has trigger warnings galore. But I enjoyed it. I am a sucker for a Russian bad boy billionaire.
How does a writer make dub con romantic? I’ve always hated it but this author does such a good job of writing it.
Dylan (heroine) was sent $500,000 through the mail by her uncle. The money didn’t belong to him but belonged to Russian arms dealer/criminal Ivan. And he wants his money. He shows up at Dylan’s door and the magic happens.
Be warned that this is smut to the smuttiest degree. The sex gets primal and there is a lot of taking off the belt for punishments. If you have read Zoe Blake before you should be ok. If not this book has trigger warnings galore. But I enjoyed it. I am a sucker for a Russian bad boy billionaire.
October 3, 2021
4 Worth Such Devotion Stars ⭐
It kills me every time. The minute I hesitate and think the author won't do that she does. Honestly ZB's dub con is top notch that I feel really guilty thinking it's hot. But if some domineering, rich Russian wants to tear off my panties and spank my ass I can make myself available...
"Admit it, secretly you're a dirty girl who likes it rough. It's always the quiet prudish ones who turn out to be the real freaks in bed."
Not only did we get a signature alpha Russian in Sweet Savagery, Arms Dealer, Ivan Morozov was certifiably crazy. With the word NO not in his vocabulary, his lunacy had no boundaries. He came to the USA to retrieve stolen money yet gained a wife to be instead. He just didn't know it yet.
Dylan Prescott is no stranger to shady dealings. Even whilst trying to steer clear from trouble it's found her nonetheless. When 500k appears in her possession, there's no time to strategize. Before she knows it she is unjustly paying penance with her body.
"I'm very angry right now. And when I'm angry, someone either gets killed or fucked."
In his opinion, Dylan would be a short term sexual fix during his stay, whether she's on board or not. Except her resistance just rouses his desire and Ivan finds himself destroying everything that stands in his way. She will need to accept her fate.
"If you do this, it will be by force."
He smirked. "You act like that's a problem for me. Besides, we both know you like it when I'm rough."
Admittedly most of the books in this series have had similar storylines which feels a little repetitive, however the antics of these Russians still manage to shock and entertain me. As expected there are many triggers, but if dub con isn't a hard limit, I recommend!
ARC provided by author in exchange for my honest opinion.
It kills me every time. The minute I hesitate and think the author won't do that she does. Honestly ZB's dub con is top notch that I feel really guilty thinking it's hot. But if some domineering, rich Russian wants to tear off my panties and spank my ass I can make myself available...
"Admit it, secretly you're a dirty girl who likes it rough. It's always the quiet prudish ones who turn out to be the real freaks in bed."
Not only did we get a signature alpha Russian in Sweet Savagery, Arms Dealer, Ivan Morozov was certifiably crazy. With the word NO not in his vocabulary, his lunacy had no boundaries. He came to the USA to retrieve stolen money yet gained a wife to be instead. He just didn't know it yet.
Dylan Prescott is no stranger to shady dealings. Even whilst trying to steer clear from trouble it's found her nonetheless. When 500k appears in her possession, there's no time to strategize. Before she knows it she is unjustly paying penance with her body.
"I'm very angry right now. And when I'm angry, someone either gets killed or fucked."
In his opinion, Dylan would be a short term sexual fix during his stay, whether she's on board or not. Except her resistance just rouses his desire and Ivan finds himself destroying everything that stands in his way. She will need to accept her fate.
"If you do this, it will be by force."
He smirked. "You act like that's a problem for me. Besides, we both know you like it when I'm rough."
Admittedly most of the books in this series have had similar storylines which feels a little repetitive, however the antics of these Russians still manage to shock and entertain me. As expected there are many triggers, but if dub con isn't a hard limit, I recommend!
ARC provided by author in exchange for my honest opinion.
August 21, 2023
4.5 the spice hit just right stars
Look. I’ve read enough Zoe Blake to know that I’m going to get an OTT, alpha, rough H who’s all about the h and will do anything to get/keep her… even if she doesn’t exactly agree 😅😬.
And that’s exactly what I got 😮💨😈. I know that if I’m reading “clean” ish books, reading a ZB book will give me all the 🔥 I’m missing out on 😉. And yup, this hit the spot 💅.
Dylan’s (25) at her studio apartment when she receives a bunch of boxes from one of her uncles. Okay… Cool... No biggie 😅. Except… except the fact that these boxes contain $500,000 in them 😳.
Half a million dollars was sent to her through the USPS mail 😳 and she doesn’t know what to do…
Well, what she DOES do is use her bed to hide them 🤣I know 🫢 seems silly. But, where else could she hide it all in a studio apartment 😅🤷🏻♀️?
She COULD use a few thousand to get her real estate broker license… among other things… but she decides she’ll just go to work and earn a living like a normal human being (unlike her uncles and imprisoned dad).
All’s going well; she’s showing two couples a house that they could never afford when a huge Russian man arrives… the man who owns the half million dollars her uncle stole… and he thinks that Dylan was in on it 😬.
Ivan’s (35) angry that someone would dare steal from him. It’s not the money that’s bothering him, it’s the principle of it all. He *gets* (😬😅) the info he needs from Dylan’s uncle and finds out where his money is. When he meets Dylan, he can’t help but want her, not just because she’s gorgeous, but also because someone’s gonna have to pay for what was done to him.
And he decides Dylan’s body will do just fine 😉.
What I liked/love: possible spoilers
—the 🔥. Duh 🤣 that’s why I picked this up 👏🏻. Jeeezus 🥵. First of all, I swear, Ivan’s one of the most selfless heroes I’ve ever read by ZB. This man makes sure that Dylan’s basically melted into a puddle every time they 🔥. I don’t know how she doesn’t get dehydrated 💦. The patience on him to make sure she’s good and ready would make a monk proud 🤣. There’s 🔥 action by 15% with all the fixings by 45% and continues throughout 👀
—the amount of cereal eating 💦. This man is obsessed with her… and her taste 😉. No wonder Dylan can’t think when she’s around him 🫠. He likes to eat a hearty meal 😮💨
—n0nc0n/dubc0n. The word No? What’s that? It’s not in Ivan’s dictionary 😬. The 🔥scenes might start off as nonnie, but they quickly morphe into dubbie and consent 🔥
—the Russian diiiiirty talk 🥵. So I was living off google translate for a bit, sue me 🤣. Ivan. Ivan… jeeezus 💦 why is it hotter when it’s Russian?!?! I wish this was duet narration 😭
—the jacuzzi scene 😅. Ivan’s so sweet, teaching Dylan how to take deep breaths 🥵. I’ve never read a scene like this before 👀
—the D/s aspect. Umm…. Normally, I cringe when the punishment stuff happens, but I wasn’t cringing as much in this one 😅. It’s not like warnings weren’t given 🫣
—his nicknames for her 🥰. He calls her Malen’kaya kukla which means ‘little doll.’ He also calls her baby and baby girl 🥹
—the 🤣 scenes. Omg. This isn’t supposed to be a romcom, but I swear, I was laughing at the audacity in some parts 🤣. There were many times I was giggling. The Russian words being misspoken, the playing cards while they’re getting attacked, the injuring and not un aliving aspect, I mean, these guys made me 🤣
—how protective Ivan is ❤️. Aww. This man will do anything to protect Dylan’s honor. Like…
—praise k 👀. I just luuuurve it 😮💨
—how sweet Ivan could be 🥰. He’s not just a hard shell of a man. When bad things happen to Dylan, he goes crazy and feels relieved when he finds her ❤️
—he falls first, and says I love you first 🥰
—door in the way? Let’s break it 💅
—the previous MCs from the other books 👀. I mean. We didn’t see Emma and Dimitri’s pregnancy/baby in their book, but we see them here 🥰. Also… I’m excited to get to the next one 😈 so much feistiness in Carinna, and Max is over her 🤣 I can’t wait to read their book 👀
What I wanted more of:
—length (🤣 not like that!!! But, I mean… 🤷🏻♀️… 🤣jk).
—a longer epilogue. But, I DO love that we get to see previous couples, which means I’m sure I’ll see them in the next books
Overall, I really enjoyed this! It’s probably one of my favorite ZB books
⚠️ safety squad ⚠️
-no cheating/sharing/owd
-noncon/dubcon
-violence/torture
-praise kink/anal play/spanking/belt whipping/biting/anal/face f
-D/s
-OMD- the h has a date with OM whom she’s been seeing. The H takes care of him 🤷🏻♀️
-very experienced H/h has been with 2 men
-no condom/always used one before/h not on birth control
-HEA/epilogue/3 months later
Look. I’ve read enough Zoe Blake to know that I’m going to get an OTT, alpha, rough H who’s all about the h and will do anything to get/keep her… even if she doesn’t exactly agree 😅😬.
And that’s exactly what I got 😮💨😈. I know that if I’m reading “clean” ish books, reading a ZB book will give me all the 🔥 I’m missing out on 😉. And yup, this hit the spot 💅.
Dylan’s (25) at her studio apartment when she receives a bunch of boxes from one of her uncles. Okay… Cool... No biggie 😅. Except… except the fact that these boxes contain $500,000 in them 😳.
Half a million dollars was sent to her through the USPS mail 😳 and she doesn’t know what to do…
Well, what she DOES do is use her bed to hide them 🤣I know 🫢 seems silly. But, where else could she hide it all in a studio apartment 😅🤷🏻♀️?
She COULD use a few thousand to get her real estate broker license… among other things… but she decides she’ll just go to work and earn a living like a normal human being (unlike her uncles and imprisoned dad).
All’s going well; she’s showing two couples a house that they could never afford when a huge Russian man arrives… the man who owns the half million dollars her uncle stole… and he thinks that Dylan was in on it 😬.
Ivan’s (35) angry that someone would dare steal from him. It’s not the money that’s bothering him, it’s the principle of it all. He *gets* (😬😅) the info he needs from Dylan’s uncle and finds out where his money is. When he meets Dylan, he can’t help but want her, not just because she’s gorgeous, but also because someone’s gonna have to pay for what was done to him.
And he decides Dylan’s body will do just fine 😉.
What I liked/love: possible spoilers
—the 🔥. Duh 🤣 that’s why I picked this up 👏🏻. Jeeezus 🥵. First of all, I swear, Ivan’s one of the most selfless heroes I’ve ever read by ZB. This man makes sure that Dylan’s basically melted into a puddle every time they 🔥. I don’t know how she doesn’t get dehydrated 💦. The patience on him to make sure she’s good and ready would make a monk proud 🤣. There’s 🔥 action by 15% with all the fixings by 45% and continues throughout 👀
—the amount of cereal eating 💦. This man is obsessed with her… and her taste 😉. No wonder Dylan can’t think when she’s around him 🫠. He likes to eat a hearty meal 😮💨
—n0nc0n/dubc0n. The word No? What’s that? It’s not in Ivan’s dictionary 😬. The 🔥scenes might start off as nonnie, but they quickly morphe into dubbie and consent 🔥
—the Russian diiiiirty talk 🥵. So I was living off google translate for a bit, sue me 🤣. Ivan. Ivan… jeeezus 💦 why is it hotter when it’s Russian?!?! I wish this was duet narration 😭
—the jacuzzi scene 😅. Ivan’s so sweet, teaching Dylan how to take deep breaths 🥵. I’ve never read a scene like this before 👀
—the D/s aspect. Umm…. Normally, I cringe when the punishment stuff happens, but I wasn’t cringing as much in this one 😅. It’s not like warnings weren’t given 🫣
—his nicknames for her 🥰. He calls her Malen’kaya kukla which means ‘little doll.’ He also calls her baby and baby girl 🥹
—the 🤣 scenes. Omg. This isn’t supposed to be a romcom, but I swear, I was laughing at the audacity in some parts 🤣. There were many times I was giggling. The Russian words being misspoken, the playing cards while they’re getting attacked, the injuring and not un aliving aspect, I mean, these guys made me 🤣
—how protective Ivan is ❤️. Aww. This man will do anything to protect Dylan’s honor. Like…
—praise k 👀. I just luuuurve it 😮💨
—how sweet Ivan could be 🥰. He’s not just a hard shell of a man. When bad things happen to Dylan, he goes crazy and feels relieved when he finds her ❤️
—he falls first, and says I love you first 🥰
—door in the way? Let’s break it 💅
—the previous MCs from the other books 👀. I mean. We didn’t see Emma and Dimitri’s pregnancy/baby in their book, but we see them here 🥰. Also… I’m excited to get to the next one 😈 so much feistiness in Carinna, and Max is over her 🤣 I can’t wait to read their book 👀
What I wanted more of:
—length (🤣 not like that!!! But, I mean… 🤷🏻♀️… 🤣jk).
—a longer epilogue. But, I DO love that we get to see previous couples, which means I’m sure I’ll see them in the next books
Overall, I really enjoyed this! It’s probably one of my favorite ZB books
⚠️ safety squad ⚠️
-no cheating/sharing/owd
-noncon/dubcon
-violence/torture
-praise kink/anal play/spanking/belt whipping/biting/anal/face f
-D/s
-OMD- the h has a date with OM whom she’s been seeing. The H takes care of him 🤷🏻♀️
-very experienced H/h has been with 2 men
-no condom/always used one before/h not on birth control
-HEA/epilogue/3 months later
September 26, 2021
I'm say this right here because just a warning if you have read Zoes books you know her men are OTT so be warned if that's not your cup please don't read. You won't enjoy it I have triggers below so you can read them.
We sorta met Ivan in passing in the previous books now its his turn. He is on a mission when he has a rat who steals from him and now he has a name and going to get his money back. Who he meets isn't a boy Dylan.. oh no it's a firey sassy woman he now wants something more.. but Dylan isn't having it she doesn't want drama from her uncles but she has no choice she has someones money put away now a scary Russian who is at her job want it and her. He takes no for an answer and those steamy moments between them dang talk about steamy!! But Dylan does fight the attraction to her Russian many times.. but Ivan was always one step ahead of her.. like many times he even toss her into a trunk of his car.. he gave her a choice 🤣🤣 so he wasn't evil lol we also get family drama and some murder!!! Lots of back and forth between them two but that was all Dylan who fought the temptation. Like I said above you'll wanna smack Ivan few times on how he was going about this. But boy did I love him.
And our next couple heheh and they already starting off with sparks..
No ow drama and tiny om drama (past ex bf or was he), no cheating, Secondey characters, drama, sexy times, no virgins and no manwhore
Recommend-Yes/maybe
Cover-⭐⭐⭐⭐
Heat level-🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
Slow-instaburn
Push away from h
23h/35H
Dub-conish/noncon
Pubishments
Underwater force oral
Violence
Force orgasms
No condom
Anal play/sex
Hea
Epilogue
We sorta met Ivan in passing in the previous books now its his turn. He is on a mission when he has a rat who steals from him and now he has a name and going to get his money back. Who he meets isn't a boy Dylan.. oh no it's a firey sassy woman he now wants something more.. but Dylan isn't having it she doesn't want drama from her uncles but she has no choice she has someones money put away now a scary Russian who is at her job want it and her. He takes no for an answer and those steamy moments between them dang talk about steamy!! But Dylan does fight the attraction to her Russian many times.. but Ivan was always one step ahead of her.. like many times he even toss her into a trunk of his car.. he gave her a choice 🤣🤣 so he wasn't evil lol we also get family drama and some murder!!! Lots of back and forth between them two but that was all Dylan who fought the temptation. Like I said above you'll wanna smack Ivan few times on how he was going about this. But boy did I love him.
And our next couple heheh and they already starting off with sparks..
No ow drama and tiny om drama (past ex bf or was he), no cheating, Secondey characters, drama, sexy times, no virgins and no manwhore
Recommend-Yes/maybe
Cover-⭐⭐⭐⭐
Heat level-🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
Slow-instaburn
Push away from h
23h/35H
Dub-conish/noncon
Pubishments
Underwater force oral
Violence
Force orgasms
No condom
Anal play/sex
Hea
Epilogue
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 16, 2021
Shallow characters and…
Rape. A lot of rape. There was one consensual sex scene in the entire book. They started having sex at 15% of the book and it took them until 74% to have the only consensual sex scene in the entire book. Every other scene was rape.
The characters are also shallow. The FMC is really really dumb which is not her fault really. She grew up in an abusive environment and so it makes sense that she just lets the MMC rape her over and over and over again. She can’t help it. The MMC has basically no background and not one romantic bone in his body. He was a nothing character. This is not a romance novel. This is a rape fantasy.
Also this is not BDSM. Consent is required in BDSM. Aftercare and communication and respect is required in BDSM. This is a book about rape. And very stupid characters.
Rape. A lot of rape. There was one consensual sex scene in the entire book. They started having sex at 15% of the book and it took them until 74% to have the only consensual sex scene in the entire book. Every other scene was rape.
The characters are also shallow. The FMC is really really dumb which is not her fault really. She grew up in an abusive environment and so it makes sense that she just lets the MMC rape her over and over and over again. She can’t help it. The MMC has basically no background and not one romantic bone in his body. He was a nothing character. This is not a romance novel. This is a rape fantasy.
Also this is not BDSM. Consent is required in BDSM. Aftercare and communication and respect is required in BDSM. This is a book about rape. And very stupid characters.
January 1, 2025
4 - 4.5 stars!
Re-read 12/17/24
Still love it. 😍
First Read
I have no idea how Zoe Blake does it but this woman makes me salivate over her over-the-top, possessive, obsessive and borderline psychotic men and Ivan was no exception. That man oozed power and strength and I loved every second of his ruthlessness and knuckle-dragging alpha energy. Do I feel bad for getting hot and bothered by a man that in real life would need a swift kick to the balls? Absolutely not.
Ivan is a Russian Arms Dealer and when he discovers that quite a bit of money has been stolen from him, he intends to make an example out of the people that stole it. When he discovers that a person by the name of Dylan has the money he travels to America to show him that no one crosses him and lives to tell about it.
But when Ivan finds Dylan he is surprised to find that Dylan isn't a man but an enticingly beautiful and feisty woman that challenges him at every turn. And he intends on making her his for as long as he pleases. Dylan on the other hand doesn't want to be seen as a piece of property and fights him at every turn. Will Ivan make Dylan realize they are meant to be together? Can Dylan accept Ivan's particular brand of possession? What happens when Dylan's criminal family comes after her because of the money...can Ivan keep her safe?
This was a sexy AF story with LOADS of steam (borderline non-consensual for those with triggers) and a suspenseful story line. There is one scene in a bathtub that had me completely confused with the mechanics of what happened lol. I really loved Ivan despite his crazy and I loved Dylan for all her fight and heart. I would have liked Ivan to come to the conclusion that Dylan was his indefinitely faster and for Dylan to have a little more confidence in her worth but I do think it was all wrapped up beautifully. It was great to see Mary and Emma and Dimitri and Vaska. I'm gonna need Maxim and Carrina's story like now. Please and thank you! Overall, if you like completely over-the-top mafia romance with a heavy dose of kinky f*ckery then definitely pick this one up.
Re-read 12/17/24
Still love it. 😍
First Read
I have no idea how Zoe Blake does it but this woman makes me salivate over her over-the-top, possessive, obsessive and borderline psychotic men and Ivan was no exception. That man oozed power and strength and I loved every second of his ruthlessness and knuckle-dragging alpha energy. Do I feel bad for getting hot and bothered by a man that in real life would need a swift kick to the balls? Absolutely not.
Ivan is a Russian Arms Dealer and when he discovers that quite a bit of money has been stolen from him, he intends to make an example out of the people that stole it. When he discovers that a person by the name of Dylan has the money he travels to America to show him that no one crosses him and lives to tell about it.
But when Ivan finds Dylan he is surprised to find that Dylan isn't a man but an enticingly beautiful and feisty woman that challenges him at every turn. And he intends on making her his for as long as he pleases. Dylan on the other hand doesn't want to be seen as a piece of property and fights him at every turn. Will Ivan make Dylan realize they are meant to be together? Can Dylan accept Ivan's particular brand of possession? What happens when Dylan's criminal family comes after her because of the money...can Ivan keep her safe?
This was a sexy AF story with LOADS of steam (borderline non-consensual for those with triggers) and a suspenseful story line. There is one scene in a bathtub that had me completely confused with the mechanics of what happened lol. I really loved Ivan despite his crazy and I loved Dylan for all her fight and heart. I would have liked Ivan to come to the conclusion that Dylan was his indefinitely faster and for Dylan to have a little more confidence in her worth but I do think it was all wrapped up beautifully. It was great to see Mary and Emma and Dimitri and Vaska. I'm gonna need Maxim and Carrina's story like now. Please and thank you! Overall, if you like completely over-the-top mafia romance with a heavy dose of kinky f*ckery then definitely pick this one up.
April 19, 2022
⭐️ one star -
One star for this one. I normally like this author, Zoe Blake, when I’m in the mood for some smut in the dark romance genre, but this book is not one of her best.
Sweet Savagery is part of a new series from her (her Ruthless Obsession series), and this is book #3. This one is just not as well written as her other books. I did like her first book from this series (Sweet Cruelty - three stars), and I really liked her Dark Obsession series, the three from that series are great to read when you’re in the mood for some edgy dark romance smut.
Sweet Savagery just didn’t do it for me. The writing in the beginning is not as good as what I associate with ZB, and the flow was pretty choppy and was just not on point. I did enjoy the scene with the h’s friends (she was introduced to them by the H, and they are the so’s of the H’s from the previous two books in the series). I especially loved that Emma was included from Sweet Cruelty, as that was the book that I enjoyed from this series, but having it thrown in there seemed more of an afterthought and came across as an add-on.
Also, while you have to expect spanking as part of the whole smut package with ZB (this is a dark romance, after all), the H uses a belt on the h here, and that is something I’ve come to find is a limit for me, and I did not care for that as part of the whole dub con here. Having the H whip her with a belt and leave a mark came across as entirely hypocritical when he suddenly has a problem with a secondary character punching her in the face and leaving a mark. Marking someone’s skin is a hard no for me, and I found this almost laughable that our H would be such a hypocrite. Too distractingly stupid for me.
Finally, readers should know that other reviewers are spot on here and the dub con that takes place in the beginning is rape, and is pretty disturbing, so there’s that going on too.
One small star here. Try another ZB if you’re if the mood for smut, but pass on this one.
One star for this one. I normally like this author, Zoe Blake, when I’m in the mood for some smut in the dark romance genre, but this book is not one of her best.
Sweet Savagery is part of a new series from her (her Ruthless Obsession series), and this is book #3. This one is just not as well written as her other books. I did like her first book from this series (Sweet Cruelty - three stars), and I really liked her Dark Obsession series, the three from that series are great to read when you’re in the mood for some edgy dark romance smut.
Sweet Savagery just didn’t do it for me. The writing in the beginning is not as good as what I associate with ZB, and the flow was pretty choppy and was just not on point. I did enjoy the scene with the h’s friends (she was introduced to them by the H, and they are the so’s of the H’s from the previous two books in the series). I especially loved that Emma was included from Sweet Cruelty, as that was the book that I enjoyed from this series, but having it thrown in there seemed more of an afterthought and came across as an add-on.
Also, while you have to expect spanking as part of the whole smut package with ZB (this is a dark romance, after all), the H uses a belt on the h here, and that is something I’ve come to find is a limit for me, and I did not care for that as part of the whole dub con here. Having the H whip her with a belt and leave a mark came across as entirely hypocritical when he suddenly has a problem with a secondary character punching her in the face and leaving a mark. Marking someone’s skin is a hard no for me, and I found this almost laughable that our H would be such a hypocrite. Too distractingly stupid for me.
Finally, readers should know that other reviewers are spot on here and the dub con that takes place in the beginning is rape, and is pretty disturbing, so there’s that going on too.
One small star here. Try another ZB if you’re if the mood for smut, but pass on this one.
May 3, 2024
absolutely unhinged silliness but 🎤 YOU KNOW I DO THIS FOR THAT SMUT, I DO THIS FOR THAT SMUT 🎤
October 3, 2021
ALL MY REVIEWS CAN BE FOUND ON MY BLOG: ABSTRACT BOOKS
Star Rating : 4/5 Stars
POV : Dual
Cliffhanger : no
Hero : Ivan
Heroine : Dylan
Pace of the story : Moderate
Angst Rating : 5/10
Heat Rating : 6/10
Triggers Involved : Dub Con Scenes
Plot Summary :
No one steals from Ivan and lives to tell the tale. When he goes to retrieve his money from a man named Dylan, he gets much more than what he bargained for. Only Dylan is not a man and rather an enticing woman trapped in his game. She doesn't know where the money came from and Ivan knows she is innocent. That does not mean he will let her go. She was his now. His prize and his in every way.
Dylan has led a pretty simple life. She always knew that her danger loving uncles would one day get her into trouble and so they did. When she got a carton full of money from them, she didn't know what to do with it. That money bought the most dangerous man she had ever met at her doorstep and now he won't leave. Neither would he let her leave.
Overall Opinion :
Zoe's book has these JP heroes that just drive me crazy! Her brand of craziness and addiction and I can't get enough of them. I have been waiting for Ivan's book for so long! And we finally have it. Dylan was his match in every way. She was innocent yet she had this strength that made me love her so much.
Ivan didn't know the meaning of the word No and rook what he wanted but he knew that Dylan liked it that much too! He was dark as hell and I loved every second of it.
Definitely recommending this one to all the dark mafia romance loving people. This one has a few triggers like Dubcon scenes and dark mafia romance with a very controlling and broody hero so please keep the triggers in mind before reading this one.
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January 8, 2023
"Sweet Savagery" is the story of Dylan and Ivan.
Another growly hero meets the sassy heroine when he comes to take the money she has inherited. He soon realizes she's the one, they have loads of kinky sex and after some back and forth it ends in a HEA.
Tried and tested formula that works.
Safe
3/5
Another growly hero meets the sassy heroine when he comes to take the money she has inherited. He soon realizes she's the one, they have loads of kinky sex and after some back and forth it ends in a HEA.
Tried and tested formula that works.
Safe
3/5
November 5, 2021
I'm sorry, but it's so hard to take this book seriously.
February 23, 2023
3.5 Stars
I liked this better than the previous book in a lot of ways but towards the end there were some massive "dumb bitch" moments that just really made my eyes roll. I just want the h to be sensible sometimes, ya know?? Not do the opposite thing that will guarantee her being put in danger.
I couldn't help but compare the h's in this series to the h's in the Queens and Monsters series. Those gals wouldn't be walking into a warehouse full of armed men and shouting "stop! Police!!" I like heroines who not only have backbone but have a bit of cunning and smarts about them. They were foiled way too easily and it frustrated me a bit but that's probably more of a me thing.
Now I didn't hate the book at all, in fact as per the previous two I love the steamroller H trope, also not ashamed to admit that when the mood strikes a bit of dub-con just really hits the spot 😂 so I loved the steam in this book and loved Ivan even if he was a bit of a Neanderthal at times. I mean who doesn't sometimes wish a rich, hot guy will swoop in and solve all your worries?? So for all these things I'm giving it 3.5 stars which is still an enjoyable book for me.
I liked this better than the previous book in a lot of ways but towards the end there were some massive "dumb bitch" moments that just really made my eyes roll. I just want the h to be sensible sometimes, ya know?? Not do the opposite thing that will guarantee her being put in danger.
I couldn't help but compare the h's in this series to the h's in the Queens and Monsters series. Those gals wouldn't be walking into a warehouse full of armed men and shouting "stop! Police!!" I like heroines who not only have backbone but have a bit of cunning and smarts about them. They were foiled way too easily and it frustrated me a bit but that's probably more of a me thing.
Now I didn't hate the book at all, in fact as per the previous two I love the steamroller H trope, also not ashamed to admit that when the mood strikes a bit of dub-con just really hits the spot 😂 so I loved the steam in this book and loved Ivan even if he was a bit of a Neanderthal at times. I mean who doesn't sometimes wish a rich, hot guy will swoop in and solve all your worries?? So for all these things I'm giving it 3.5 stars which is still an enjoyable book for me.
October 7, 2021
I'm picturing Dimitri (Sweet Cruelty) and Vaska (Sweet Depravity) conversing in a bar. Dimitri: "No one is more jealous and possessive than me." Vaska: "Well, no one is more obsessive and controlling than me." Ivan walks in... "Friends, hold my beer."
Sweet Savagery is book 3 in the Ruthless Obsession series, featuring Ivan and Dylan. This book had everything you come to expect from Zoe's books including an extremely OTT male MC and the perfect female MC to balance him out. There was action, revenge, witty banter, punishments, a "ride" in the car trunk and loads of hot, steamy scenes. As the MC's relationship develops, there is also plenty of humor along the way!
I loved getting to catch up with Emma & Dimitri, as well as Mary & Vaska as we got to know Ivan & Dylan in book 3. And as always, I learned some new Russian phrases and endearments!
Sweet Savagery is book 3 in the Ruthless Obsession series, featuring Ivan and Dylan. This book had everything you come to expect from Zoe's books including an extremely OTT male MC and the perfect female MC to balance him out. There was action, revenge, witty banter, punishments, a "ride" in the car trunk and loads of hot, steamy scenes. As the MC's relationship develops, there is also plenty of humor along the way!
I loved getting to catch up with Emma & Dimitri, as well as Mary & Vaska as we got to know Ivan & Dylan in book 3. And as always, I learned some new Russian phrases and endearments!
October 10, 2021
FLOVED it!!
Story: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Trope: Captive
Angst: 😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Triggers: dubcon
What a perfect addition to the Ruthless Obsession series by Zoe Blake! Sweet Savagery dished out the perfect combination of a great read with delicious smexy times ❤. Ivan is the perfect alphahole who is used to controlling his world and getting whatever (and whomever) he want. Dylan is superb as the object of his not so appreciated obsession, lol (at least at first). The chemistry between them is super hot and their smexy times nearly lit my kindle on fire! It was awesome to see Dimitri, Anna, Vaska, and Mary as well ❤. This is seriously one of my favorite series!
Story: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Trope: Captive
Angst: 😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Triggers: dubcon
What a perfect addition to the Ruthless Obsession series by Zoe Blake! Sweet Savagery dished out the perfect combination of a great read with delicious smexy times ❤. Ivan is the perfect alphahole who is used to controlling his world and getting whatever (and whomever) he want. Dylan is superb as the object of his not so appreciated obsession, lol (at least at first). The chemistry between them is super hot and their smexy times nearly lit my kindle on fire! It was awesome to see Dimitri, Anna, Vaska, and Mary as well ❤. This is seriously one of my favorite series!
July 1, 2022
I don't know what it is with Zoe Blake's over the top Alphahole heroes, but oh my God, I need more and more and more LOL. This entire series is bananas, with over the top Alphahole heros and dubious consent. But man, it works LOL.
I was in the mood for a smutty dark mafia romance and this book checked all of my boxes. It was a little similar to the first book in the series (i.e. changing the locks, the friendship between Dylan and Carinna, Maxim vs. Vaska), but who cares?!
I would have given this book a higher rating if the pacing was more coherent. The first half of this book takes place in the space of 24 hours LOL. I think the entire story takes place in 1-3 days. Dylan was likable in the beginning, but then she somehow lost her brain in the final act.
But who cares about all the critical nonsense? If you are in the mood for an over the top mafia romance with an Alphahole whose notions of consent are dubious at best, then I recommend this book.
I was in the mood for a smutty dark mafia romance and this book checked all of my boxes. It was a little similar to the first book in the series (i.e. changing the locks, the friendship between Dylan and Carinna, Maxim vs. Vaska), but who cares?!
I would have given this book a higher rating if the pacing was more coherent. The first half of this book takes place in the space of 24 hours LOL. I think the entire story takes place in 1-3 days. Dylan was likable in the beginning, but then she somehow lost her brain in the final act.
But who cares about all the critical nonsense? If you are in the mood for an over the top mafia romance with an Alphahole whose notions of consent are dubious at best, then I recommend this book.
September 27, 2021
This series man......I loved eeeettttt!
October 3, 2021
I am absolutely and irrevocably in love with Ivan.
Tall, tattooed, hot dark and dangerous. Ivan sees, Ivan wants, Ivan takes.
Tall, tattooed, hot dark and dangerous. Ivan sees, Ivan wants, Ivan takes.
October 16, 2021
UPDATE:
The entire series is the same story but the names of each character are different. Everything happens in the same exact order in all of her series, girl meet boy, boy spanks girl and it takes off from there.
Not only have I discovered that the series are following the same pattern, but if you choose to read the authors other works you will realize she also duplicates her books.
Duplicate her books? Yes, as in change the name of the characters, change the plot, add a new cover, keep the same dialog and scenes then publish. WORD FOR WORD!
It’s like she wrote one series and said y’all will deal! Three books replicated with at least 6 other titles. It’s like paying a ghost writer to create a book, using Microsoft word to replace a few pesky things like names, then BAM publish a few more times!
I don’t know if she’s brave or just don’t give a damn. Maybe she fees that the readers are so ignorant and horny they will forgive the lack of plot and devour the smut.
But that’s also a damn problem because the smut scenes are reused, again WORD FOR WORD, in her other books. I thought I was seeing doubles, but no, just a “writer” looking to cash out on book porn.
It is the first time I’ve ever seen something like this. I don’t know if I should say “get money bish” to the author or “do better” lmao.
I AM REPOSTING THIS EXACT REVIEW TO THE OTHER SERIES, I am inspired by the author to save my time by reusing my content.
The entire series is the same story but the names of each character are different. Everything happens in the same exact order in all of her series, girl meet boy, boy spanks girl and it takes off from there.
Not only have I discovered that the series are following the same pattern, but if you choose to read the authors other works you will realize she also duplicates her books.
Duplicate her books? Yes, as in change the name of the characters, change the plot, add a new cover, keep the same dialog and scenes then publish. WORD FOR WORD!
It’s like she wrote one series and said y’all will deal! Three books replicated with at least 6 other titles. It’s like paying a ghost writer to create a book, using Microsoft word to replace a few pesky things like names, then BAM publish a few more times!
I don’t know if she’s brave or just don’t give a damn. Maybe she fees that the readers are so ignorant and horny they will forgive the lack of plot and devour the smut.
But that’s also a damn problem because the smut scenes are reused, again WORD FOR WORD, in her other books. I thought I was seeing doubles, but no, just a “writer” looking to cash out on book porn.
It is the first time I’ve ever seen something like this. I don’t know if I should say “get money bish” to the author or “do better” lmao.
I AM REPOSTING THIS EXACT REVIEW TO THE OTHER SERIES, I am inspired by the author to save my time by reusing my content.
January 9, 2023
Keeping it simple:
Erotic
Spicy
Good storyline
Dangerous
Happy reading,
DD 🥂
Erotic
Spicy
Good storyline
Dangerous
Happy reading,
DD 🥂
March 16, 2022
4.4 stars.
I loved reading this series.
I love how this author writes Russian mafia men.
They’re so perfectly imperfect.
This book is packed full of domineering Russian mafia man who takes what he wants with zero regard for any dissent in the negative.
And the entire time Dylan is denying her feelings for him and trying to run away from the big bad caveman.
There’s non-con, there’s spanking, mostly with a belt, there’s some breath play, there’s really rough punishing sex. And theres a terrifyingly large 🐓 attached to a terrifyingly large and intimidating Russian savage.
Its fucking sexy as all hell.
I loved it.
I would’ve liked it if there was a tiny bit more of them together after Dylan had accepted her feelings and they weren’t pushing and pulling each other. But I still really enjoyed it.
We also got some cameos from past characters from the previous books, which was gratifying and totally entertaining.
The way romance authors write Russian Mafia men is my absolute favorite kind of man.
Yes. I’m aware I have issues.
They’re just so hot and dominating and have such a sexy accent, and they’re never taking ‘no’ for an answer.
Stop judging me.
They’re the best.
Dimitri, Vaska, and Ivan are the best.
Re-Read: 03/16/22
4.6 stars.
I loved this more the second time.
I wanted to reread it because Maxim’s book is coming out in a couple days, and I’ll be honest. I couldn’t remember who the hell Maxim was.
I’m glad I did.
I know what the hell is happening now.
So good!
I can’t wait to see what’s going on with Carinna and Maxim while Ivan is busy with Dylan.
I also can’t wait to see more of Dylan and Ivan in the background of Carinna’s book.
I’m just excited for a new book, period.
I loved reading this series.
I love how this author writes Russian mafia men.
They’re so perfectly imperfect.
This book is packed full of domineering Russian mafia man who takes what he wants with zero regard for any dissent in the negative.
And the entire time Dylan is denying her feelings for him and trying to run away from the big bad caveman.
There’s non-con, there’s spanking, mostly with a belt, there’s some breath play, there’s really rough punishing sex. And theres a terrifyingly large 🐓 attached to a terrifyingly large and intimidating Russian savage.
Its fucking sexy as all hell.
I loved it.
I would’ve liked it if there was a tiny bit more of them together after Dylan had accepted her feelings and they weren’t pushing and pulling each other. But I still really enjoyed it.
We also got some cameos from past characters from the previous books, which was gratifying and totally entertaining.
The way romance authors write Russian Mafia men is my absolute favorite kind of man.
Yes. I’m aware I have issues.
They’re just so hot and dominating and have such a sexy accent, and they’re never taking ‘no’ for an answer.
Stop judging me.
They’re the best.
Dimitri, Vaska, and Ivan are the best.
Re-Read: 03/16/22
4.6 stars.
I loved this more the second time.
I wanted to reread it because Maxim’s book is coming out in a couple days, and I’ll be honest. I couldn’t remember who the hell Maxim was.
I’m glad I did.
I know what the hell is happening now.
So good!
I can’t wait to see what’s going on with Carinna and Maxim while Ivan is busy with Dylan.
I also can’t wait to see more of Dylan and Ivan in the background of Carinna’s book.
I’m just excited for a new book, period.
September 25, 2021
This was a fantastic read. It was a mafia based book with violence, action and adventure. And the author even threw in a little bit of romance
October 9, 2021
This book was everything I expected and more. Ivan is dangerous, possessive male, sizzling, drama, action, set your Kindle on fire type of guy. Absolutely loved this book.
January 17, 2023
3.5⭐️
Safety squad :
-no cheating/sharing
-no owd
-no real omd
-no condoms
-breeding kink
-no virgins
-hea(engaged and pregnant in the epilogue)
Safety squad :
-no cheating/sharing
-no owd
-no real omd
-no condoms
-breeding kink
-no virgins
-hea(engaged and pregnant in the epilogue)
October 14, 2021
Ivan ❤ Dylan! Their story was intense and so enjoyable to read! I liked the fast pace and the story-line. The steamy moments were a little awkward and rough sometimes. Emma, Dimitri, Mary and Vaska make an appearance too! I can't wait to read the next one in the series!
October 9, 2021
If you like all of Zoe Blake’s books you’ll probably like this one. If you are hoping for more of the same magic created from Sweet Cruelty and Sweet Depravity, you might be disappointed. I’m disappointed. The book isn’t bad, it just lacks the spark the first two had and ventures more into the territory of Zoe’s other books, which to me have always fallen into “this story is ok” to “no, thank you” categories, to each their own.
I was reluctant to read Sweet Cruelty initially because I really hated Ward and everyone raved about it too. I know some people love that series but it just wasn’t my cup of tea. When I finally read Sweet Cruelty I was shocked by just how much I loved it. Instant top 5 reads for me, ever. Her other series haven’t blown me away like this one but I haven’t hated them either, they were fine. This books keeps some of the elements from the first two in this series but adds in a lot more focus on spanking and punishment. I know tons of people read Zoe Blake books for this type of content, she’s great at writing it and her fans love it. Personally it doesn’t do anything for me, it doesn’t offend me but I don’t seek out books because they contain spanking, I read books with spanking because they normally have the other stuff I do like to read, the heavier focus on punishment here was disappointing.
Story 3/5, Spice 4/5, Heat 3/5, Darkness 1.5/5, Angst 1/5
Medium burn, they sex it up at 45%. There are few foreplay scenes before 45%, fingers at 20%, oral at 27% but no actual sex until 45%. It’s all non-con, pretty much all the spicy scenes throughout the book are non-con, which I’m not complaining about, it’s the reason I read this book but if you don’t like that sort of thing - RUN.
No condoms, no virgins, jealous/possessive H, non-con, dub-con, non-con punishments, breath play, no OW drama, mild OM drama, major push away from h, no separation. No sharing, no cheating, no cliffhanger and HEA.
Safety - I’d consider this safe provided you like non-con and dub-con and don’t mind violence. He’s a mob guy so he’s ruthless and violent.
I was reluctant to read Sweet Cruelty initially because I really hated Ward and everyone raved about it too. I know some people love that series but it just wasn’t my cup of tea. When I finally read Sweet Cruelty I was shocked by just how much I loved it. Instant top 5 reads for me, ever. Her other series haven’t blown me away like this one but I haven’t hated them either, they were fine. This books keeps some of the elements from the first two in this series but adds in a lot more focus on spanking and punishment. I know tons of people read Zoe Blake books for this type of content, she’s great at writing it and her fans love it. Personally it doesn’t do anything for me, it doesn’t offend me but I don’t seek out books because they contain spanking, I read books with spanking because they normally have the other stuff I do like to read, the heavier focus on punishment here was disappointing.
Story 3/5, Spice 4/5, Heat 3/5, Darkness 1.5/5, Angst 1/5
Medium burn, they sex it up at 45%. There are few foreplay scenes before 45%, fingers at 20%, oral at 27% but no actual sex until 45%. It’s all non-con, pretty much all the spicy scenes throughout the book are non-con, which I’m not complaining about, it’s the reason I read this book but if you don’t like that sort of thing - RUN.
No condoms, no virgins, jealous/possessive H, non-con, dub-con, non-con punishments, breath play, no OW drama, mild OM drama, major push away from h, no separation. No sharing, no cheating, no cliffhanger and HEA.
Safety - I’d consider this safe provided you like non-con and dub-con and don’t mind violence. He’s a mob guy so he’s ruthless and violent.
December 9, 2025
Meh
30%~40% of the book is almost the same as Book 1, except in Book 1, I liked the heroine's depraved innocence. This heroine crosses the line into belligerent. She's a liar on top too.
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🕮⋆˚࿔✎𓂃 𝐣𝐨𝐢𝐧 𝐦𝐲 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐲 𝐟𝐮𝐥𝐥 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰
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30%~40% of the book is almost the same as Book 1, except in Book 1, I liked the heroine's depraved innocence. This heroine crosses the line into belligerent. She's a liar on top too.
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🕮⋆˚࿔✎𓂃 𝐣𝐨𝐢𝐧 𝐦𝐲 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐲 𝐟𝐮𝐥𝐥 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰
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Read
November 2, 2021I am not giving this book a rating as it just isn’t for me. It’s a dubious consent and fantasy rape genre. Don’t want to yuk anyone’s yum, just definitely not for me.
January 28, 2022
Zoe Blake has done it yet again! Another 🥵🥵🥵Russian arms dealer has met his match in a feisty, yet sweet American woman!! Loved Ivan and Dylan! But especially loved Ivan!! 🥰🥵🔥!! He was so deliciously jealous and possessive!! And so protective of Dylan, who had been treated poorly by her family and didn't feel she was worth protecting and defending.
This book had it all...hot, hot, hot smex scenes, bad guys who are really good guys (yes, Dimitri and Vaska are back!!), bad guys that Ivan and his friends need to take care of, romance, and delightful banter between Ivan and Dylan. And spankings! Did I mention spankings?! 😊🥵🔥
Definitely recommend this book!! And I can't wait for Maxim's story!! 🥰🥰🥰
This book had it all...hot, hot, hot smex scenes, bad guys who are really good guys (yes, Dimitri and Vaska are back!!), bad guys that Ivan and his friends need to take care of, romance, and delightful banter between Ivan and Dylan. And spankings! Did I mention spankings?! 😊🥵🔥
Definitely recommend this book!! And I can't wait for Maxim's story!! 🥰🥰🥰
November 19, 2021
Almost every time you think, so good as the last time she does not get it again and then it becomes so good again. Incredible how someone can phrase so many wrong things really well that they are emotionally convincing and you want more and you want it now and also something gritty just for you alone.
Incredibly awesomely wonderful, twisted, stirring and so damn hot and desirably sweet. If you know and like the author, this is another smash hit or bullseye 🎯
Incredibly awesomely wonderful, twisted, stirring and so damn hot and desirably sweet. If you know and like the author, this is another smash hit or bullseye 🎯
April 19, 2022
This series is so good and I love Dylan and Ivan, I love everything about them and especially Dylan’s stubbornness. Also the epilogue, cutest thing ever
TW/ CW: noncon, guns, bullet wounds, violence, mentions of abuse
TW/ CW: noncon, guns, bullet wounds, violence, mentions of abuse
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