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Mafia Wars #4
Vicious Protector: The Ivanov Family
Demons so deep they destroy us...
Every part of Adrian Ivanov is pure, unable to ignore, male virility. He’s arrogant. Protective. Sweet and intensely attentive. On rare occasions, outright vicious.
If only his soul weren’t tortured over who he is and what he has become. It makes him hide it all from me, proclaiming the truth will ruin us. No matter how much I insist anything he confesses won’t deter my heart, his ghosts won’t allow him.
But they aren’t apparitions. The present collides with the past in a dangerous and twisted game he doesn’t even know he’s a pawn in. It causes everything in our future to remain in jeopardy.
There’s a choice, yet nothing hard in life comes without consequences.
He’s my vicious protector…
”Vicious Protector” is the jaw-dropping fourth installment of the “Mafia Wars” series. It’s an interconnecting, stand-alone Dark Mafia Romance, guaranteed to have an HEA.
Every part of Adrian Ivanov is pure, unable to ignore, male virility. He’s arrogant. Protective. Sweet and intensely attentive. On rare occasions, outright vicious.
If only his soul weren’t tortured over who he is and what he has become. It makes him hide it all from me, proclaiming the truth will ruin us. No matter how much I insist anything he confesses won’t deter my heart, his ghosts won’t allow him.
But they aren’t apparitions. The present collides with the past in a dangerous and twisted game he doesn’t even know he’s a pawn in. It causes everything in our future to remain in jeopardy.
There’s a choice, yet nothing hard in life comes without consequences.
He’s my vicious protector…
”Vicious Protector” is the jaw-dropping fourth installment of the “Mafia Wars” series. It’s an interconnecting, stand-alone Dark Mafia Romance, guaranteed to have an HEA.
448 pages, Paperback
First published July 1, 2021
985 people are currently reading
1729 people want to read
About the author
Maggie Cole
65 books2,311 followersJoin Maggie Cole's newsletter for exclusive updates and material: https://www.authormaggiecole.com
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Visit https://maggiecolebookstore.com/
Hang out with Maggie in her reader group: https://bit.ly/3cGMxIw
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Maggie Cole is committed to bringing her readers alphalicious book boyfriends and fiercely strong heroines.
She’s been called the literary master of steamy romance. Her books are full of raw emotion, suspense, and will always keep you wanting more. She is a masterful storyteller of contemporary romance and loves writing about broken people who rise above the ashes. Her books can often be found hanging out in the top 100, even years after publication.
Maggie lives in Florida with her son. She loves tennis, yoga, paddleboarding, boating, other water activities, and everything naughty.
Her current series were written in the order below:
All In (Stand alones with entwined characters)
It's Complicated (Stand alones with entwined characters)
Together We Stand (Brooks Family Saga - read in order)
Behind Closed Doors (Read in order)
Mafia Wars
Mafia Wars New York
Club Indulgence Duet
Mafia Wars Ireland
Wilted Kingdom Duet
The Underworld
The Cartwright Family (Holiday Romance)
Grab e-books, paperbacks, special editions, and audio at discounted prices!
Visit https://maggiecolebookstore.com/
Hang out with Maggie in her reader group: https://bit.ly/3cGMxIw
Instagram: @maggiecoleauthor
YouTube: https://bit.ly/3i5zmSk
TikTok:
https://www.tiktok.com/@maggiecole.au...
Maggie Cole is committed to bringing her readers alphalicious book boyfriends and fiercely strong heroines.
She’s been called the literary master of steamy romance. Her books are full of raw emotion, suspense, and will always keep you wanting more. She is a masterful storyteller of contemporary romance and loves writing about broken people who rise above the ashes. Her books can often be found hanging out in the top 100, even years after publication.
Maggie lives in Florida with her son. She loves tennis, yoga, paddleboarding, boating, other water activities, and everything naughty.
Her current series were written in the order below:
All In (Stand alones with entwined characters)
It's Complicated (Stand alones with entwined characters)
Together We Stand (Brooks Family Saga - read in order)
Behind Closed Doors (Read in order)
Mafia Wars
Mafia Wars New York
Club Indulgence Duet
Mafia Wars Ireland
Wilted Kingdom Duet
The Underworld
The Cartwright Family (Holiday Romance)
Ratings & Reviews
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 302 reviews
July 14, 2022
I read a 400+ page book in 6 hours and if that ain’t an addiction, I don’t know what is.
Even with the addiction, I can acknowledge this wasn’t too perfect. The secrecy being the biggest one. The not-letting-your-partner-in made me want shake some sense into hero. But I also understood it. It ain’t no pretty lifestyle he was living. And it was a trauma response.
But I loved it.
I’m so attached these characters and their world now.
4.5 🌟
Even with the addiction, I can acknowledge this wasn’t too perfect. The secrecy being the biggest one. The not-letting-your-partner-in made me want shake some sense into hero. But I also understood it. It ain’t no pretty lifestyle he was living. And it was a trauma response.
But I loved it.
I’m so attached these characters and their world now.
4.5 🌟
July 1, 2021
*Thank you to the author for an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
This series is so addicting. The world that Maggie Cole has created just keeps me hooked in so deep. While this is a series of connected standalones, as a reader it is very rewarding to read them in the order presented by the author. It makes for a multi-layered reading experience and if you are paying attention, things connect in an amazing way.
I was so excited to read about Adrian and Skyler. The author always has me salivating for the next couple and it is a thrill when I catch glimpses of them in previous novels. Also, so much of their love stories are all happening on top of each other, it makes for a beautifully tangled web to unravel. They make my skin flush and my blood heat and it is a good time for everyone.
This book has romance, steam, and action. It will have you on the edge of your seat. I am so in love with this family and this world... its the awesome.
One detractor I have to bring up, in all fairness, is that there is a bit of a plot point that starts to get repetitive for me. How tight lipped the Ivanovs are. Like, to the detriment of their relationships, they will not share ANYTHING. It is consistent through most of the books, but by this 4th one, it was getting old. One of my favorite things in a Mafia book is when an outside heroine comes to see what their hero is up against and will accept them no matter what they do. So by the time I have reached this one and that is STILL happening, it started to weigh down the romance for me.
However, that is the choice of the author to have her Ivanovs do business and pleasure that wat=y so I just accept it. The world of the Mafia Wars is still heating up, so jump on the ride and hold on tight.
4/5 Stars for this entry. I can't wait til you read the next one...
This series is so addicting. The world that Maggie Cole has created just keeps me hooked in so deep. While this is a series of connected standalones, as a reader it is very rewarding to read them in the order presented by the author. It makes for a multi-layered reading experience and if you are paying attention, things connect in an amazing way.
I was so excited to read about Adrian and Skyler. The author always has me salivating for the next couple and it is a thrill when I catch glimpses of them in previous novels. Also, so much of their love stories are all happening on top of each other, it makes for a beautifully tangled web to unravel. They make my skin flush and my blood heat and it is a good time for everyone.
This book has romance, steam, and action. It will have you on the edge of your seat. I am so in love with this family and this world... its the awesome.
One detractor I have to bring up, in all fairness, is that there is a bit of a plot point that starts to get repetitive for me. How tight lipped the Ivanovs are. Like, to the detriment of their relationships, they will not share ANYTHING. It is consistent through most of the books, but by this 4th one, it was getting old. One of my favorite things in a Mafia book is when an outside heroine comes to see what their hero is up against and will accept them no matter what they do. So by the time I have reached this one and that is STILL happening, it started to weigh down the romance for me.
However, that is the choice of the author to have her Ivanovs do business and pleasure that wat=y so I just accept it. The world of the Mafia Wars is still heating up, so jump on the ride and hold on tight.
4/5 Stars for this entry. I can't wait til you read the next one...
June 29, 2021
Fun with Words
4.5 stars - I was hooked from the beginning. The heartache and angst is deep and powerful, as is their chemistry.
I, too, was left feeling my insides turning to molten lava. 🌋🌋🌋🔥🔥🔥 ...well, except for that encounter at the boxing match. That one left me cold and ready to throw down. 💪👊💣💥
One thing I wasn't expecting but absolutely loved was the education in abstract words like clatterdevengeance, collywobbles, jentacular, tittynopes, kakorrhaphiophobia, and agastopia. These little pockets of word challenges were amongst my favorite parts of the book. I love the heat between Adrian and Skylar but this unique thing endeared them to me.
This book isn't as intense as Cruel Enforcer but there's a lot of build-up getting to where the epilogue of CE left us hanging. I loved getting to see their relationship build and break but I was admittedly antsy to get to the place that intersected with that cliffhanger. The book doesn't advance as far into the future as the others have, getting only days passed CE, epilogue excluded. I was saddened by that as things were just starting to again move in a positive direction.
This is the fourth book in the series. There are a lot of timeline / events overlapping with the other books but I think you could get away with reading this as a standalone. Even saying that, I'd recommend reading the series in order.
I'm voluntarily reviewing an ARC of this book.
4.5 stars - I was hooked from the beginning. The heartache and angst is deep and powerful, as is their chemistry.
Everything he does with his hands, mouth, or eyes turns my insides to hot lava. --Skylar Scott
I, too, was left feeling my insides turning to molten lava. 🌋🌋🌋🔥🔥🔥 ...well, except for that encounter at the boxing match. That one left me cold and ready to throw down. 💪👊💣💥
One thing I wasn't expecting but absolutely loved was the education in abstract words like clatterdevengeance, collywobbles, jentacular, tittynopes, kakorrhaphiophobia, and agastopia. These little pockets of word challenges were amongst my favorite parts of the book. I love the heat between Adrian and Skylar but this unique thing endeared them to me.
This book isn't as intense as Cruel Enforcer but there's a lot of build-up getting to where the epilogue of CE left us hanging. I loved getting to see their relationship build and break but I was admittedly antsy to get to the place that intersected with that cliffhanger. The book doesn't advance as far into the future as the others have, getting only days passed CE, epilogue excluded. I was saddened by that as things were just starting to again move in a positive direction.
This is the fourth book in the series. There are a lot of timeline / events overlapping with the other books but I think you could get away with reading this as a standalone. Even saying that, I'd recommend reading the series in order.
I'm voluntarily reviewing an ARC of this book.
July 8, 2021
SKYLER IS A HELL NO!!!! UGH SUCH A DISAPPOINTMENT
I was so excited to read this book since the rest were awesome. Skylar is extremely insecure and cries the ENTIRE book, I skipped so many chapters because I just couldn't deal with it. I'm second guessing the remainder of the books in the series.. Ugh
I was so excited to read this book since the rest were awesome. Skylar is extremely insecure and cries the ENTIRE book, I skipped so many chapters because I just couldn't deal with it. I'm second guessing the remainder of the books in the series.. Ugh
October 18, 2021
❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥
💋💋
Yes In parts this was frustrating, aggravating, annoying even, but given poor Skylars track record with Adrian she couldn’t seem to win.
I felt sorry for both of them and wanted to shake them.
That said, I loved the story and the plot, ex wife and all. Great stuff , long may it continue.
💋💋
Yes In parts this was frustrating, aggravating, annoying even, but given poor Skylars track record with Adrian she couldn’t seem to win.
I felt sorry for both of them and wanted to shake them.
That said, I loved the story and the plot, ex wife and all. Great stuff , long may it continue.
July 5, 2021
Adrian and Skylar
Meet Adrian and Skylar in this story. All the series is about a different couple all with pasts that nightmares are made of. How they overcome them to keep the women they fall in love with safe. It's no different with Adrian and Skylar. You still get to know how the others are doing, the stories are easy to follow. Adrian has trust issues as he has a vengeful ex wife who,s character is an absolute snake in the grass. It's a hot read with Mafia related theme,s.
Meet Adrian and Skylar in this story. All the series is about a different couple all with pasts that nightmares are made of. How they overcome them to keep the women they fall in love with safe. It's no different with Adrian and Skylar. You still get to know how the others are doing, the stories are easy to follow. Adrian has trust issues as he has a vengeful ex wife who,s character is an absolute snake in the grass. It's a hot read with Mafia related theme,s.
October 29, 2021
Adrian and Skylar are everything!!!!!
I was really looking forward to Adrian’s book and I was not disappointed in the least. I knew that this one would be emotional and have a lot of twists and turns.
From the moment I started on page one I could not stop reading. The prologue pulls you in and then you are hooked from there. There is so much back story in these interconnected books but I loved to read the different POV’s.
This book has steam, romance, laughs, and some suspense because there are parts you didn’t see coming. Adrian and Skylar fought their attraction to each other for all of 10 seconds before they gave into their strong chemistry. I have read a lot of couple romances and I have to say that theirs is one of my favorites. There are some epic dates they go on and makes you think that true love like theirs is a possibility no matter what the circumstances are.
Book 4 in the Mafia Wars series was one of my favorites so far. I cannot wait for the rest! Maggie Cole really knows how to burrow a story deep into your chest and not let go in the best way! And she certainly gets you to have all the feels!
I was really looking forward to Adrian’s book and I was not disappointed in the least. I knew that this one would be emotional and have a lot of twists and turns.
From the moment I started on page one I could not stop reading. The prologue pulls you in and then you are hooked from there. There is so much back story in these interconnected books but I loved to read the different POV’s.
This book has steam, romance, laughs, and some suspense because there are parts you didn’t see coming. Adrian and Skylar fought their attraction to each other for all of 10 seconds before they gave into their strong chemistry. I have read a lot of couple romances and I have to say that theirs is one of my favorites. There are some epic dates they go on and makes you think that true love like theirs is a possibility no matter what the circumstances are.
Book 4 in the Mafia Wars series was one of my favorites so far. I cannot wait for the rest! Maggie Cole really knows how to burrow a story deep into your chest and not let go in the best way! And she certainly gets you to have all the feels!
June 28, 2021
In book four of the Mafia Wars we learn about Adrian and Skylars story. And as with every Maggie Cole book we don’t know what’s in Maggie’s mind until boom it gets more intense. Leaving us hooked waiting for the next book following the story. I loved how behind a tough looking man there’s a super sweet sensitive loving individual wanting to be loved and to love deeply amd as with skylar she wants to be let in and be loved too. The mafia wars keeps getting more intense with each book can’t wait to read the next one; and don’t forget about all the hot scenes.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 29, 2021
Review by: Jennifer
(5 stars)
This is a series, these do flow from one story to the next. The author does an amazing job of going back and recapping certain situations from a different POV. She does this in a way that its not boring and wanting you to skip, but in a way where it feels fresh, like you're getting something new. With that said, we already know that Adrian and Skylar have something going; once again just like the previous stories, we have no clue just how deep, or what exactly they have gotten up to, just that there is something and there is drama. Adrian and Skylar's story is so full of drama, danger, violence, hot naughty bits, and a few WTF moments. Don't want to say much, but I will say, I understood some of Skylar's issues BUT I feel that she took things a bit too far. Other than that, I loved everything about this story and still give it 5 stars.
(5 stars)
This is a series, these do flow from one story to the next. The author does an amazing job of going back and recapping certain situations from a different POV. She does this in a way that its not boring and wanting you to skip, but in a way where it feels fresh, like you're getting something new. With that said, we already know that Adrian and Skylar have something going; once again just like the previous stories, we have no clue just how deep, or what exactly they have gotten up to, just that there is something and there is drama. Adrian and Skylar's story is so full of drama, danger, violence, hot naughty bits, and a few WTF moments. Don't want to say much, but I will say, I understood some of Skylar's issues BUT I feel that she took things a bit too far. Other than that, I loved everything about this story and still give it 5 stars.
July 1, 2021
This series just keeps getting better and better! I couldn’t put this book down I loved it so much. The danger, lies, secrets and suspense kept me on the edge of my seat throughout. Adrian and Skylar have this instant chemistry but Adrian is keeping many secrets and won’t let Skylar in. Skylar is trying her best to have a relationship with Adrian but she doesn’t want it built on lies. Will they be able to forge forward?
July 1, 2021
Vicious Protector is the fourth book in the Mafia Wars series.
I’ve always found Adrian to be intriguing. He’s cocky, arrogant, protective, sexy, sweet and a romantic at heart. Everything that makes him the perfect alpha, but he’s not so perfect, more tormented by his past
Skylar has not had the best of luck when it comes fo her relationships, but she couldn’t deny her attraction to Adrian even if she tried. Even though she trusted him with her whole heart, she felt the trust was lacking on his end as he couldn’t find it in himself to open up and reveal what has him tormented. You feel the love she has for Adrian as well as all the pain and insecurities she has, it’s so painfully real and heartfelt you just pray they get their HEA.
The epic date nights, the steamy sex, the plot twists made it so hard to put the book down, and you start to realize the war is far from over.
Maggie has outdone herself once again, the stories infiltrate you down to the core, You find yourself falling for every character she writes about. Can’t wait to find out about Obrecht and Selena’s journey in Savage Tracker
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I’ve always found Adrian to be intriguing. He’s cocky, arrogant, protective, sexy, sweet and a romantic at heart. Everything that makes him the perfect alpha, but he’s not so perfect, more tormented by his past
Skylar has not had the best of luck when it comes fo her relationships, but she couldn’t deny her attraction to Adrian even if she tried. Even though she trusted him with her whole heart, she felt the trust was lacking on his end as he couldn’t find it in himself to open up and reveal what has him tormented. You feel the love she has for Adrian as well as all the pain and insecurities she has, it’s so painfully real and heartfelt you just pray they get their HEA.
The epic date nights, the steamy sex, the plot twists made it so hard to put the book down, and you start to realize the war is far from over.
Maggie has outdone herself once again, the stories infiltrate you down to the core, You find yourself falling for every character she writes about. Can’t wait to find out about Obrecht and Selena’s journey in Savage Tracker
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 9, 2022
3⭐️ 3🌶
Ahh again I wasn’t thrilled with it but it’s still hooked me enough that I want to continue. That last 10% always gets me with Maggie.
"When you let the past dictate the future, you let them win. You end up hurting people around you instead of the people who should receive your wrath."
I couldn’t connect with Skylar because she bugged me with how much she was accusing Adrian of cheating, it started to get old. It felt like he was just defending himself nonstop. 🫣
But it wasn’t all bad! I did like them and the spice was good. I also like that it’s told over the same time as the first books and now getting the POV from this couple but then it continues the story further.
The mafia plot is really good and flowing well throughout the series. These are not standalones IMO.
Ahh again I wasn’t thrilled with it but it’s still hooked me enough that I want to continue. That last 10% always gets me with Maggie.
"When you let the past dictate the future, you let them win. You end up hurting people around you instead of the people who should receive your wrath."
I couldn’t connect with Skylar because she bugged me with how much she was accusing Adrian of cheating, it started to get old. It felt like he was just defending himself nonstop. 🫣
But it wasn’t all bad! I did like them and the spice was good. I also like that it’s told over the same time as the first books and now getting the POV from this couple but then it continues the story further.
The mafia plot is really good and flowing well throughout the series. These are not standalones IMO.
June 25, 2021
Adrian, Adrian, Adrian! He makes my lady parts quiver! He’s the man that makes shit happen. He was wrecked by past experiences, but he had no idea how his mojo rocked the dojo! HE is all things sexy, dangerous, lethal. He will stop at nothing to keep his woman safe. He is mystery, danger, intrigue. But a woman can’t live on secrets. Skylar needs more than great chemistry, sex, charisma. She is betting on it all, and awaits her happily ever after! Adrian will not disappoint! After all, he is an Ivanov! Did you say Russian? Printsessa!
June 20, 2021
From book 1 in the series, Ruthless Stranger, I was looking forward to learning more about Adrian. He didn’t seem like a typical Ivanov guy. Skylar in the previous books reminded me of the girl trying to hard to get the guy that she will never get. Boy, oh boy, I was wrong. Adrian and Skylar like every other couple have amazing, sexy, wishing you were them connections! I said it last book and I’ll say it again, I don’t know how Maggie Cole can write such an amazing book and it fit in like the missing piece you needed from the previous book? I’m telling you that any author that can keep you going with each new book is rare! The series is unreal! I cannot wait for the next book! If you have not started this series you are seriously missing out!
July 1, 2021
Another phenomenal story for the Mafia Wars series. I love the progression from each book to the next. We see the events from the main characters POVs and then get more details.
I claimed Sergey with the last Mafia Wars installment, but Adrian's story brings him to the top of the book boyfriend list too.
He is as the title suggests, vicious and a fierce and loyal protector. He was instantly interested in Skylar and we saw that in book 1, Maksims book. The connection between Adrian and Skylar blew me away.
Skylar is sweet and caring and dedicated. She had past issues that made her initially wary of Adrian. This led to him wanting to protect her from the bad parts of himself.
As the couple progressed they were fighting for each other as well as his past and the surrounding Mafia issues. I was rooting for them and felt heartbroken when everything came to a head....a break up and a shooting keep the reader invested; but in true Maggie Cole fashion while one couple gets their HEA, another doesn't and we have to wait for the next story.
All the stars for this story and the entire Mafia Wars books so far.
I claimed Sergey with the last Mafia Wars installment, but Adrian's story brings him to the top of the book boyfriend list too.
He is as the title suggests, vicious and a fierce and loyal protector. He was instantly interested in Skylar and we saw that in book 1, Maksims book. The connection between Adrian and Skylar blew me away.
Skylar is sweet and caring and dedicated. She had past issues that made her initially wary of Adrian. This led to him wanting to protect her from the bad parts of himself.
As the couple progressed they were fighting for each other as well as his past and the surrounding Mafia issues. I was rooting for them and felt heartbroken when everything came to a head....a break up and a shooting keep the reader invested; but in true Maggie Cole fashion while one couple gets their HEA, another doesn't and we have to wait for the next story.
All the stars for this story and the entire Mafia Wars books so far.
August 2, 2024
Unpredictable, Action-packed, Page-turner, Wonderful characters, Steamy, Romantic, Entertaining
June 13, 2021
When a book has you almost crying in the first few pages, you know your in for a real treat! This series just keeps getting better and better- everytime you think Maggie can't do any better, she blows everything you thought you knew, out of the water.
I Love the connections that this entire series has, but I'm stuck in a vicious circle of wanting to know what happens next and never wanting it to end, if we could just get a new Mafia Wars book every month for at least the next few years, I'd be forever grateful!
I'm not sure how she does it, but Maggie holds the power to shatter your heart and fill it with love for fictional characters all at the same time- if I could give this more stars, I would!
I Love the connections that this entire series has, but I'm stuck in a vicious circle of wanting to know what happens next and never wanting it to end, if we could just get a new Mafia Wars book every month for at least the next few years, I'd be forever grateful!
I'm not sure how she does it, but Maggie holds the power to shatter your heart and fill it with love for fictional characters all at the same time- if I could give this more stars, I would!
June 13, 2021
This series just keeps getting better and better! The fourth book in Mafia Wars is by far my favorite to date! Skylar and Adrian have so much heat and passion when they are together but the challenges they face that try to tear them apart add so much drama to their story. An amazing addition to an already incredible series!! I highly recommend this series to anyone who loves romance and especially Mafia!
June 13, 2021
Adrian and Skylar heat up the pages. Their chemistry is off the charts. He will do anything to keep her from his world. Anything to keep their love pure and unblemished. But will the secrets he keeps tear them apart. Skylar wants it to be enough but she needs all of him. Even the not so glamorous. Step into their steamy world. You won’t regret it.
December 6, 2021
What can I say about this VERY STEAMY boom without spoiling anything....
I will say this Maggie has a talent of making on the stories link together. Behind the scenes of Cruel Enforcer ~ Kora & Sergey story. The whole time Adrian and Skylar have been seeing each other. We see their relationship grow and we get remind what happened Cruel Enforcer. Both stories do link together just the series.
That it no more but I will promise there is steamy scenes & action !! My spoilers review will come on the 1st July
☆ UPDATE Review 1st July 2021☆
"Fairy tales aren't real. I learned the hard way."
Skylar did learn the hard but she has a demon by her side called Adrian🔥
Skylar & Adrian love story is EPIC. Both characters start to learn more about each other and they did this during in "Cruel Enforcer" when we got hints of them together whispering. Now we have the answers...
Skylar is the creative & kind hearted with pink hair. She is talented fashion designer but her boss is a DICK! I wanted her to succeed to create her own label cause she deserves!
Adrian is cousins to Inanov Brothers. His blood brother Obrecht and their lovable & hilarious Svetlana. I love how Skylar asks Adrian to teach her Russian to show respect for their culture. Adrian is such a complicated character and my heart broke for him when we learned about the true meaning of the lion tattoo on his chest.
Skylar is the perfect person to show him that she is the real deal, her heart will not change when he tells her the truth. When he finally got the courage to tell her the truth (the truth that Aspen & Kora knows) but it didn't go to plan...no spoliers.
Yes I am emotionally invested in these characters and, all I want to do is cheer them !! I hope we get more Svetlana her lovable mother vibe just jump of the page.
THERE is a twist of betray in this book, while I say betrayal I mean set up Adrian & his family from the past events. Trust me I DID NOT see this coming and it broke my heart for Adrian's family. NO SPOLIERS
📚🎧 Tim Paige & Kelsey Navarro performances was brilliant especially when it came to them heart wrenching moments. When Adrian talks about the lost of his son and telling "Skylar I love you come home". Kesley did a brilliant job on Skylatlr determination on what's going on with the brothers and what's the secret. Another great performance but their Russian accent is slightly off but that does not ruin the story telling at all. Well done Tim & Kelsey on this brilliant job from romantic moments to heart wrenching moments
☆MUST READ & FAV& LISTEN ☆
I will say this Maggie has a talent of making on the stories link together. Behind the scenes of Cruel Enforcer ~ Kora & Sergey story. The whole time Adrian and Skylar have been seeing each other. We see their relationship grow and we get remind what happened Cruel Enforcer. Both stories do link together just the series.
That it no more but I will promise there is steamy scenes & action !! My spoilers review will come on the 1st July
☆ UPDATE Review 1st July 2021☆
"Fairy tales aren't real. I learned the hard way."
Skylar did learn the hard but she has a demon by her side called Adrian🔥
Skylar & Adrian love story is EPIC. Both characters start to learn more about each other and they did this during in "Cruel Enforcer" when we got hints of them together whispering. Now we have the answers...
Skylar is the creative & kind hearted with pink hair. She is talented fashion designer but her boss is a DICK! I wanted her to succeed to create her own label cause she deserves!
Adrian is cousins to Inanov Brothers. His blood brother Obrecht and their lovable & hilarious Svetlana. I love how Skylar asks Adrian to teach her Russian to show respect for their culture. Adrian is such a complicated character and my heart broke for him when we learned about the true meaning of the lion tattoo on his chest.
Skylar is the perfect person to show him that she is the real deal, her heart will not change when he tells her the truth. When he finally got the courage to tell her the truth (the truth that Aspen & Kora knows) but it didn't go to plan...no spoliers.
Yes I am emotionally invested in these characters and, all I want to do is cheer them !! I hope we get more Svetlana her lovable mother vibe just jump of the page.
THERE is a twist of betray in this book, while I say betrayal I mean set up Adrian & his family from the past events. Trust me I DID NOT see this coming and it broke my heart for Adrian's family. NO SPOLIERS
📚🎧 Tim Paige & Kelsey Navarro performances was brilliant especially when it came to them heart wrenching moments. When Adrian talks about the lost of his son and telling "Skylar I love you come home". Kesley did a brilliant job on Skylatlr determination on what's going on with the brothers and what's the secret. Another great performance but their Russian accent is slightly off but that does not ruin the story telling at all. Well done Tim & Kelsey on this brilliant job from romantic moments to heart wrenching moments
☆MUST READ & FAV& LISTEN ☆
July 1, 2021
Vicious Protector is the 4th book in Maggie Cole's Mafia Wars series and a great addition to the series! The storyline is great, and while it wasn’t my favorite of the series, it still well written, had lots of twists and turns, and was action-packed to the end. For the most part, each book in the Mafia Wars series can be read as an interconnected standalone, but I feel like a person might be a bit lost if you started with Vicious Protector so it's best read in order. All the books are running concurrently, but slightly offset of each other. They are each about a different couple and while there are some redundancies, it’s nothing that is too off-putting.
In Vicious Protector, we get the story of Skylar Scott and Adrian Ivanov. They have explosive chemistry from the moment they meet and remains almost palpable through the whole story. Skyler is a fun, eclectic, independent woman which is really attractive to Adrian, but has insecurities about their relationship which come across as super relatable, especially when Adrian isn’t forthcoming about his work, why he occasionally disappears, and why his ex-wife keeps popping up. Adrian’s brooding, intense nature is attractive to Skylar at first, but in the end it’s driving the wedge between them. Adrian has become defined by his past and his refusal to share the darker sides of himself makes Skylar feel even more insecure in their relationship and may drive them apart permanently if he can’t figure out a way to trust her. It’s a very high angst read with a lot of back and forth. Skyler for feeling like Adrian should trust her with more information and Adrian for believing that she should just trust him more in doing what was best for her. The character development in Maggie’s books are great and I really like that her books aren’t just about the male and female protagonists relationship with each other, but almost equally about their relationships with their friends and family. Can’t wait for the next book in the series!
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Trope: Instalust
Angst: 😰😰😰😰😰
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Triggers: none
In Vicious Protector, we get the story of Skylar Scott and Adrian Ivanov. They have explosive chemistry from the moment they meet and remains almost palpable through the whole story. Skyler is a fun, eclectic, independent woman which is really attractive to Adrian, but has insecurities about their relationship which come across as super relatable, especially when Adrian isn’t forthcoming about his work, why he occasionally disappears, and why his ex-wife keeps popping up. Adrian’s brooding, intense nature is attractive to Skylar at first, but in the end it’s driving the wedge between them. Adrian has become defined by his past and his refusal to share the darker sides of himself makes Skylar feel even more insecure in their relationship and may drive them apart permanently if he can’t figure out a way to trust her. It’s a very high angst read with a lot of back and forth. Skyler for feeling like Adrian should trust her with more information and Adrian for believing that she should just trust him more in doing what was best for her. The character development in Maggie’s books are great and I really like that her books aren’t just about the male and female protagonists relationship with each other, but almost equally about their relationships with their friends and family. Can’t wait for the next book in the series!
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Trope: Instalust
Angst: 😰😰😰😰😰
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Triggers: none
August 3, 2022
Adrian was just a mess and a lot .
December 29, 2021
Delicious push and pull and full of twists ride ahead 😍
That freaking prologue and I also a scene in the previous book had me known how tumultuous Adrian and Skylar's journey was going to be.
Right from book 1, I've been waiting for Adrian's book and the instant chemistry between him and Skylar. AHH.. This one sure took me on a rough ride.
The Mafia wars and issues are prevalent as usual (pun intended) but in this one there's a Betrayal that Adrian so doesn't see coming or rather believes wouldn't happen to him.
Adrian and Skykar have had a rough start when he finds her on the lap of his enemy, Wes petrov and is angry with her. His family was destroyed and a loss he still can't get over was meted by the petrovs and hence he hates anyone who willingly would go near them.
But Skykar tries to tell him it was all a misunderstanding and she was not of her free will there. They as in Skykar and her gang of friends are saved in the nick of time but Adrian is still angry with her and hurts her emotionally while giving her the best time of her life.
When he realises his mistake his does his best to apologize and get her back. But then another blast from Adrian's past comes and a new rift starts building which Adrian and Skylar do their best to fight and stay together.
AHH.. These two made me work for getting to happier times and I was so edge every time these would dance and fight then get back. But you could feel how they were deeply connected and couldn't actually stay away from each other.
I loved taking this rough ride of love with Adrian and Skykar. But that ending. Yep can't wait to dive into Obrecht's book. ❤️❤️❤️❤️
That freaking prologue and I also a scene in the previous book had me known how tumultuous Adrian and Skylar's journey was going to be.
Right from book 1, I've been waiting for Adrian's book and the instant chemistry between him and Skylar. AHH.. This one sure took me on a rough ride.
The Mafia wars and issues are prevalent as usual (pun intended) but in this one there's a Betrayal that Adrian so doesn't see coming or rather believes wouldn't happen to him.
Adrian and Skykar have had a rough start when he finds her on the lap of his enemy, Wes petrov and is angry with her. His family was destroyed and a loss he still can't get over was meted by the petrovs and hence he hates anyone who willingly would go near them.
But Skykar tries to tell him it was all a misunderstanding and she was not of her free will there. They as in Skykar and her gang of friends are saved in the nick of time but Adrian is still angry with her and hurts her emotionally while giving her the best time of her life.
When he realises his mistake his does his best to apologize and get her back. But then another blast from Adrian's past comes and a new rift starts building which Adrian and Skylar do their best to fight and stay together.
AHH.. These two made me work for getting to happier times and I was so edge every time these would dance and fight then get back. But you could feel how they were deeply connected and couldn't actually stay away from each other.
I loved taking this rough ride of love with Adrian and Skykar. But that ending. Yep can't wait to dive into Obrecht's book. ❤️❤️❤️❤️
June 30, 2021
Oh my…..these Ivanovs are amazing……Adrian Ivanov is the 4th book in the Mafia Wars series! Adrian has been mentioned in the previous three books and I have been waiting (not so patiently) for his story!! Adrian and Skylar are explosive. Adrian is a Vicious Protector who wants to keep Skylar safe, but he can’t tell her everything he does for his family’s affairs. Skylar is fiercely independent and wants to know why Adrian has to leave so often or where he has been. Neither one of them wanting to bend on these issues and each having their own reasons for this. They both want each other, but will they each let go of some their individual insecurities and rules to allow their relationship to blossom and move forward?
This is book four of Maggie’s new Mafia Wars series! This book is just as electric and page turning as the previous Ivanov brothers…..Adrian is the cousin of Dmitri, Maksim, Boris and Sergey! It is thrilling with mystery and danger plus it has steam with lots of heat and sex…..a perfect mix of both! Get this book now and if you haven’t read the first 3 books, get those too!!! Maggie never disappoints!
This is book four of Maggie’s new Mafia Wars series! This book is just as electric and page turning as the previous Ivanov brothers…..Adrian is the cousin of Dmitri, Maksim, Boris and Sergey! It is thrilling with mystery and danger plus it has steam with lots of heat and sex…..a perfect mix of both! Get this book now and if you haven’t read the first 3 books, get those too!!! Maggie never disappoints!
July 20, 2021
Vicious Protector by Maggie Cole is a dark mafia romance that I listened to on audio narrated by Kelsey Navarro and Tim Paige. This is the fourth book in the Mafia Wars series. The book can be read as a standalone but the stories are interconnected.
I absolutely love Maggie's books! She does an amazing job pulling me into the story. I loved the relationship between Skylar and Adrian. The chemistry between them was off the charts. I really enjoyed getting both of their points of views throughout the book. It really brought the story to life.
I can't wait for the next book in the series Savage Tracker to be released on August 1, 2021 so I can get Obrecht and Selena's story.
Kelsey and Tim did an amazing job on the narration. They both really know how to bring a story to life. I look forward to listening to more of their work in the future.
I would recommend this book if you love mafia romances, dark romances, or romantic suspense.
I absolutely love Maggie's books! She does an amazing job pulling me into the story. I loved the relationship between Skylar and Adrian. The chemistry between them was off the charts. I really enjoyed getting both of their points of views throughout the book. It really brought the story to life.
I can't wait for the next book in the series Savage Tracker to be released on August 1, 2021 so I can get Obrecht and Selena's story.
Kelsey and Tim did an amazing job on the narration. They both really know how to bring a story to life. I look forward to listening to more of their work in the future.
I would recommend this book if you love mafia romances, dark romances, or romantic suspense.
July 19, 2022
Every part of Adrian Ivanov is pure, unable to ignore, male virility. He’s arrogant. Protective. Sweet and intensely attentive. On rare occasions, outright vicious. Book four in this series follows the anticipated romance between Adrian and Skylar which is a very up and down relationship. I was really looking forward to this book as in previous books both Adrian and Skylar were tough and out spoken characters but in their own story they were anything but, unfortunately. The romance was back and forth due to the fact that Adrian didn't want to scare Skylar away with the sins of his past and Skylar's constant insecurities which were to some point understandable. The story line between them got a little tiresome, the sex was okay and their chemistry seemed strained while all around them the mafia families goings on keep expanding. It was an okay read for me I just expected more action and tension between these two tough characters.
June 28, 2021
Book 4 in the Mafia Wars series brings to life Adrian Ivanov,whose whole life is loss,violence and secrets. Everything he is, and everything he has,he needs to keep safe,to keep secure. He is the Ivanov family security,but he is so much more. He is strong,he is passionate and he loves with every fiber of his being. This only increases when he meets Skylar...the girl whose fiery personality matches her fiery hair...they instantly hit it off,but it soon becomes apparent that Adrian's need for security and protection,and especially his secrets begin to come between them. Skylar's need to be Adrian's equal pushes him to reveal who he really is, and how he came to be the man he is today.
The war between the families escalates when a certain lady decides to make an appearance,which only gets worse when secrets are revealed. Adrian and Skylar must work to get the relationship they both deserve,but even a terrible incident doesn't break them.
Just goes to show...if you want something that much...just go for it!
The war between the families escalates when a certain lady decides to make an appearance,which only gets worse when secrets are revealed. Adrian and Skylar must work to get the relationship they both deserve,but even a terrible incident doesn't break them.
Just goes to show...if you want something that much...just go for it!
June 29, 2021
Amazing! I didn’t want to put the book down! I absolutely loved the story of Skylar and Adrian. Skylar “Printsessa” and Adrian have instant chemistry. Adrian has a lot of hidden secrets and won’t tell Skylar anything. Will this destroy them or can Skylar get past the fact that some things are better left hidden. This story was full of suspense and page turning events. Between Adrian’s ex wife and everything else going on around them, Skylar tries her best to have a relationship with Adrian. The way his relationship was with his ex wife, it’s hard for Adrian to think he can have a normal relationship. Skylar doesn’t want a relationship based on lies. She wants the truth, but will the truth destroy the future they could have. You’ll want to keep reading to see if they get their happy ending.
June 30, 2021
Adrian and Skylar grabbed my attention from the beginning of Maggie Cole’s Mafia War Series. Book 4 is this dynamic couples story . Multiple obstacles , hidden secrets, ghost of the past and demons ready to attack all hinder any future Adrian and Skylar hope to have.
Oh the drama they face on this emotional roller coaster. This is a ride you don’t want to miss! Hot Hot Hot , did I mention Hot? Maggie Cole keeps on keeping on with her amazing writing !
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Oh the drama they face on this emotional roller coaster. This is a ride you don’t want to miss! Hot Hot Hot , did I mention Hot? Maggie Cole keeps on keeping on with her amazing writing !
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 1, 2021
Adrian and Skylar's story has you hooked from the prologue. I laughed, cried, I was angry. I felt a gut punch and sympathy for the situations they found themselves in. Adrian and Skylar are very relatable and you probably know someone similar to their relationship. It hits you in the feels. You will hate the bad guy in the story and the trials the person puts Adrian and Skylar through. I love the Ivanov family. Can't wait for more!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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