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Nikolaev Bratva #1
Dmitry Nikolaev
I’m locked in a cage in my wedding dress.
How did I end up here?
Three days ago, I was a normal girl living a normal life.
My adoptive parents came over to my apartment for dinner, just like they do every week.
But this time, they brought bombshells.
They tell me I’m not who they said I was.
And all those dance lessons, those etiquette classes? They weren’t just for show.
They were to groom me.
To mold me into what I’m about to become.
The forced wife of a don.
Then, with my jaw on the floor, they opened the door and let the nightmares in.
My new husband doesn’t love me—he makes that clear the moment we meet.
I’m trapped in his world for one purpose and one purpose only:
To be his wife and have his babies.
Running won’t help.
Crying won’t help.
The only thing that will?
Submitting.
How did I end up here?
Three days ago, I was a normal girl living a normal life.
My adoptive parents came over to my apartment for dinner, just like they do every week.
But this time, they brought bombshells.
They tell me I’m not who they said I was.
And all those dance lessons, those etiquette classes? They weren’t just for show.
They were to groom me.
To mold me into what I’m about to become.
The forced wife of a don.
Then, with my jaw on the floor, they opened the door and let the nightmares in.
My new husband doesn’t love me—he makes that clear the moment we meet.
I’m trapped in his world for one purpose and one purpose only:
To be his wife and have his babies.
Running won’t help.
Crying won’t help.
The only thing that will?
Submitting.
373 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 1, 2022
2708 people are currently reading
1300 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 219 reviews
May 24, 2022
This is a dark mafia arranged marriage trope and focuses on Dmitry Nikolaev who is Russian Bratva and Shannon McNulty who has been raised by her adoptive parents with no idea of her Irish mafia routes. When Dmitry’s father is killed leaving him head of the family he finds out he has been betrothed to Shannon since she was a child. She was the price to end a war between the Irish and the Russians. Now he’s all set to marry a reluctant bride who also had no idea of her future role at his side.
I found this book slightly problematic mafia arranged marriage books are usually my jam and though I found the writing with this one ok the actual characters and story itself were a different kettle of fish entirely. I didn’t connect with either Shannon or Dmitry or even like them that much. I had a lot of issues with both and wasn’t convinced by their chemistry and certainly not their eventual affection.
The rollercoaster of emotions these two experienced didn’t make much actual sense to me they weren’t even consistent with the portrayed character. I guess what I’m trying to say is it was like dealing with multiple personalities within the same person combined with an overall lack of logic to all their behaviours and reactions.
Dmitry, I found particularly unfathomable. Acting in such a cruel way for no apparent reason other than he’s the one in control and the flimsy excuse he gives Shannon later for being so closed off just came out of midfield and seemed to be dropped in just to explain away his cold distant manner and it hadn’t been even alluded to before this point not even internally. I mean I love a dark bad boy as much as the next girl but Dmitry just had no consistency to his moods and it felt like he was being mean just because he could. Their initial encounters especially the belt incident and her unlikely reaction not believable. I mean this man is a stranger they’ve just met she knows nothing about him I just can’t see it myself.
Then there’s Shannon I didn’t find her spirited just stupid with a lack of self-preservation and all she really does is whine and mouth off but otherwise is compliant and is very swiftly coerced into playing nice by Dmitry’s constant threats of violence. She definitely lacks backbone which is further confirmed when she fails to act at a crucial moment meaning Dmitry is injured. I was rolling my eyes at this point saying come on jeez girl just do it.
Then out of nowhere this just switched tack and we are now meant to believe they are deeply in love when the only interactions they’ve really had were in the bedroom. It just didn’t make much sense and didn’t feel authentic. Don’t get me wrong this isn’t massively dark or anything and I’ve read books where the anti-hero has done much worse but it also has to be tempered by some occasional gentleness and compassion and we didn’t really get this impression ever from Dmitry. He never apologises for any of his past responses and they get their HEA without this closure.
I also felt this wasn’t always very cohesive when it came to transitioning it felt a bit clunky and then the lapses of time between their meetings together threw me slightly. I sometimes couldn’t easily work out if it had been a day or maybe longer. I won’t be continuing further with this series I don’t think it’s a good fit for me. Maybe if I’d liked even one of the main characters I’d have liked this more than I did but disliking the hero and then finding the heroine irritating and annoying well, unfortunately, I struck out.
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.bookbub.com/profile/63435390
December 2, 2022
⭐️⭐️ two stars -
Just what you’d expect from a standard dark mafia romance - quick, sexy fluff.
For me, I’m a bit disappointed since I love dark mafia romance, when it’s done right - and if you follow my reviews, you might remember that I’m a sucker for Bratva, but this one from Naomi West just fell short of being entertaining for me.
I did read the whole thing, and that’s why it gets the two stars - because: Bratva 🤣
It’s a typical dark romance read, and it does have our Hero spanking the heroine with a belt, which I normally hate, but I went with the flow with this one 💁♀️ Most likely due to the fact that’s there’s not much depth to the characters here at all, and there’s really not much emotional internal dialogue from our heroine, so since she’s going with it…
The writing is fairly simplistic, and that’s what makes this an easy-to-read book. The characters here are cookie cutter dark romance characters, and the writing was too simplistic in parts, which I found annoying. You are getting what you signed up for with this book, however, so there’s that. No surprises, and no wow.
Would I recommend this one? Only if you’re a sucker for Bratva romance like I am. If you’re looking for good dark mafia romance, you won’t find that here. Go try a Charmaine Pauls instead and you’ll be better entertained.
Would I try another Naomi West? Maybe. This was my first book from her. I was lured in by that sharp cover 👌I would probably try this author again, depending on the premise.
Overall, it was competent but lacking, but I did read it through. Most likely because it wasn’t too taxing, and you need an easy to read smut fest every once in a while, or at least I do, anyway 😉
Two “meh” stars.
Just what you’d expect from a standard dark mafia romance - quick, sexy fluff.
For me, I’m a bit disappointed since I love dark mafia romance, when it’s done right - and if you follow my reviews, you might remember that I’m a sucker for Bratva, but this one from Naomi West just fell short of being entertaining for me.
I did read the whole thing, and that’s why it gets the two stars - because: Bratva 🤣
It’s a typical dark romance read, and it does have our Hero spanking the heroine with a belt, which I normally hate, but I went with the flow with this one 💁♀️ Most likely due to the fact that’s there’s not much depth to the characters here at all, and there’s really not much emotional internal dialogue from our heroine, so since she’s going with it…
The writing is fairly simplistic, and that’s what makes this an easy-to-read book. The characters here are cookie cutter dark romance characters, and the writing was too simplistic in parts, which I found annoying. You are getting what you signed up for with this book, however, so there’s that. No surprises, and no wow.
Would I recommend this one? Only if you’re a sucker for Bratva romance like I am. If you’re looking for good dark mafia romance, you won’t find that here. Go try a Charmaine Pauls instead and you’ll be better entertained.
Would I try another Naomi West? Maybe. This was my first book from her. I was lured in by that sharp cover 👌I would probably try this author again, depending on the premise.
Overall, it was competent but lacking, but I did read it through. Most likely because it wasn’t too taxing, and you need an easy to read smut fest every once in a while, or at least I do, anyway 😉
Two “meh” stars.
April 30, 2022
Sometimes I think I’m too harsh with my reviews, other times I don’t think I’m harsh enough. When it comes down to it, there is one aspect of a story that MUST be there for me to be able to enjoy it, and that’s continuity. Unfortunately, this book does not have that. That’s also not the Only issue I have with this book. There are many issues with this story. I’m upset because I really wanted to like this one…
I hate having to do Spoilers, but the only way I can explain my review is to give examples of what I am referring too, so as much as I hate it,
SPOILERS AHEAD:
There a a lot missing details in the various transitions between places, such as being on a balcony outside one moment and then being sat at a dinner table calling over a waiter, who as far as I know, wasn’t in the hotel room with the balcony, since that’s where Shannon was being held. I somehow doubt the mob guys would have allowed a waiter into the room with a kidnapped woman, but even if they did, there’s no indication of any of it.
There’s no sense of time, it seems like days go by but we as the reader are not always made aware of that fact.
Then there are sentences that seem designed to sum up what’s happening but they end up just being strange. The two MCs are in a car on their way to a dinner and this is what we’re told about them getting out: “Then the car comes to a stop and it’s gone.” They we’re just riding INSiDE this car, it came to a stop and then it was gone?? No, we exited the car and began our walk to the door? See Simple!
As for continuity here’s my example:
Shannon destroys the room, breaking everything right after having talked with Dmitry, the guards come inside the room to see the damage, then leave, and she then falls asleep, without any mention of changing clothes.(I point this out for a reason) In the very NEXT scene Dmitry is standing in the dark, and he comes to her as expected, but then there’s this : “I can sense the wetness dampening the tops of my thighs beneath this sheer nightgown”- When exactly did she change from the clothes that it was ok to talk to her parents and be seen by guards in to a sheer nightgown? Does she sleep dress? This kind of continuity issue bothers me greatly if it’s repetitive. It’s not that hard to ensure that your writing makes sense.
And I just have to say, I secretly love laughing at some of the ridiculousness of some stories. Authors put so much into these lavish “kidnapped bride weddings” that they overlook the most obvious aspect of getting married. The wedding doesn’t marry you, the marriage license does, there is no actual need for a service, you just sign your name with witnesses and an officiant OR a judge (and you know they have a few of those on payroll) and deliver it to the court house. That’s it. Weddings are beyond unnecessary and if you force her to sign her name BEFOREHAND then you’re guaranteed a compliant bride, because the deed is already done anyways. Duh
Maybe this is why I like Paranormal romance, at least I know without a doubt that the characters are in a world that does not conform to the real world, so there are less expectations about the authors world and the rules that govern it.
I dunno, but this is what I got. I hope the next ones are better with continuity and transitions.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I hate having to do Spoilers, but the only way I can explain my review is to give examples of what I am referring too, so as much as I hate it,
SPOILERS AHEAD:
There a a lot missing details in the various transitions between places, such as being on a balcony outside one moment and then being sat at a dinner table calling over a waiter, who as far as I know, wasn’t in the hotel room with the balcony, since that’s where Shannon was being held. I somehow doubt the mob guys would have allowed a waiter into the room with a kidnapped woman, but even if they did, there’s no indication of any of it.
There’s no sense of time, it seems like days go by but we as the reader are not always made aware of that fact.
Then there are sentences that seem designed to sum up what’s happening but they end up just being strange. The two MCs are in a car on their way to a dinner and this is what we’re told about them getting out: “Then the car comes to a stop and it’s gone.” They we’re just riding INSiDE this car, it came to a stop and then it was gone?? No, we exited the car and began our walk to the door? See Simple!
As for continuity here’s my example:
Shannon destroys the room, breaking everything right after having talked with Dmitry, the guards come inside the room to see the damage, then leave, and she then falls asleep, without any mention of changing clothes.(I point this out for a reason) In the very NEXT scene Dmitry is standing in the dark, and he comes to her as expected, but then there’s this : “I can sense the wetness dampening the tops of my thighs beneath this sheer nightgown”- When exactly did she change from the clothes that it was ok to talk to her parents and be seen by guards in to a sheer nightgown? Does she sleep dress? This kind of continuity issue bothers me greatly if it’s repetitive. It’s not that hard to ensure that your writing makes sense.
And I just have to say, I secretly love laughing at some of the ridiculousness of some stories. Authors put so much into these lavish “kidnapped bride weddings” that they overlook the most obvious aspect of getting married. The wedding doesn’t marry you, the marriage license does, there is no actual need for a service, you just sign your name with witnesses and an officiant OR a judge (and you know they have a few of those on payroll) and deliver it to the court house. That’s it. Weddings are beyond unnecessary and if you force her to sign her name BEFOREHAND then you’re guaranteed a compliant bride, because the deed is already done anyways. Duh
Maybe this is why I like Paranormal romance, at least I know without a doubt that the characters are in a world that does not conform to the real world, so there are less expectations about the authors world and the rules that govern it.
I dunno, but this is what I got. I hope the next ones are better with continuity and transitions.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 12, 2025
I read the reviews and I didn't listen. This might be the worst book I've ever read. The relief I felt when it was done, was immeasurable. I will NEVER read anything by this author ever again that's how bad this was. I have the ICK.
Need a pallet cleanser now !
Need a pallet cleanser now !
May 17, 2022
2.00 Okay but not great. I'll keep looking for authors who provide a unique interesting story and notable characters that are willing to be original and not just rewrite the same story line over and over again.
I honestly wanted to like this book but the story and characters had their moments, but overall were not memorable. The story had allot of gaps, an insignificant back story and didn't flow very well; it felt choppy. The storyline is based upon an antiquated practice that authors love to exploit with selling a female child (yes child), in marriage from one criminal family to their enemies. Shannon had been groomed and raised to be a Bratva wife w/o her knowledge. Who does that to their adoptive daughter? If I want to read fantasy then I will read fantasy. There has to be some believability to fiction.
Dimitry wasn't a great character until the very end of the book. I felt the author was trying to paint his character into many different directions with too many "rough edges". He was an egotistical bully who was hiding behind a narcassistic personality. It was his way or else. His need to punish Shannon because she refused to willingly submit got old fast and was not the least bit hot or sexy. Hitting a woman with a belt or your hand on her ass without her permission every time she doesn't "OBEY" is so chauvinistic. He's need to control everything in his life made his character predictable. The author tried to make this man seem like he had feelings but didn't reach that until the very end of the book.. Too much had happened to just "flip the switch" on a character that was dominated by his own needs and not those of his wife. Any man that chooses to rape a woman against her will that he is SUPPOSED to take as his wife is a complete idiot. How about getting to know her and ease her into this "arranged marriage" instead of holding her prisoner and forcing it literally down her throat.
Shannon's character bordered on immature and childish to a willing submissive. She started out strong but quickly fell for the "big cock and how many times he made her organism" main character. Another strong potential female heroine is once again reduced to an idiot. She talked a good talk but quickly became just another character that quickly became a "ghost" of what her character could have been.
The main plot follows the usual "read and repeat" story line whereas her Irish clan family wants her back. No surprise there...since most of these stories have a kidnapping or something in the story whereas the female character is saved by the H while he is wounded and close to death. Pretty basic stuff and very repetitive.
Authors can spin these stories into a supposed love story, but selling it is another challenge. I never bought into the purported love story between these two characters. Yes, they had plenty of sex but once again sex doesn't equate to love. The last portion of the book felt like the ending to a B movie with Shannon giving birth to their child and them redoing their vows which differed from their original nightmare wedding.
Dimitry's brothers were actually funny at times in this story, while his mother was just an obnoxious pushy bitch.
I honestly wanted to like this book but the story and characters had their moments, but overall were not memorable. The story had allot of gaps, an insignificant back story and didn't flow very well; it felt choppy. The storyline is based upon an antiquated practice that authors love to exploit with selling a female child (yes child), in marriage from one criminal family to their enemies. Shannon had been groomed and raised to be a Bratva wife w/o her knowledge. Who does that to their adoptive daughter? If I want to read fantasy then I will read fantasy. There has to be some believability to fiction.
Dimitry wasn't a great character until the very end of the book. I felt the author was trying to paint his character into many different directions with too many "rough edges". He was an egotistical bully who was hiding behind a narcassistic personality. It was his way or else. His need to punish Shannon because she refused to willingly submit got old fast and was not the least bit hot or sexy. Hitting a woman with a belt or your hand on her ass without her permission every time she doesn't "OBEY" is so chauvinistic. He's need to control everything in his life made his character predictable. The author tried to make this man seem like he had feelings but didn't reach that until the very end of the book.. Too much had happened to just "flip the switch" on a character that was dominated by his own needs and not those of his wife. Any man that chooses to rape a woman against her will that he is SUPPOSED to take as his wife is a complete idiot. How about getting to know her and ease her into this "arranged marriage" instead of holding her prisoner and forcing it literally down her throat.
Shannon's character bordered on immature and childish to a willing submissive. She started out strong but quickly fell for the "big cock and how many times he made her organism" main character. Another strong potential female heroine is once again reduced to an idiot. She talked a good talk but quickly became just another character that quickly became a "ghost" of what her character could have been.
The main plot follows the usual "read and repeat" story line whereas her Irish clan family wants her back. No surprise there...since most of these stories have a kidnapping or something in the story whereas the female character is saved by the H while he is wounded and close to death. Pretty basic stuff and very repetitive.
Authors can spin these stories into a supposed love story, but selling it is another challenge. I never bought into the purported love story between these two characters. Yes, they had plenty of sex but once again sex doesn't equate to love. The last portion of the book felt like the ending to a B movie with Shannon giving birth to their child and them redoing their vows which differed from their original nightmare wedding.
Dimitry's brothers were actually funny at times in this story, while his mother was just an obnoxious pushy bitch.
May 10, 2022
The first 20 percent was good then the interactions between Mc’s was just repetitive.
How many time s can the fmc say eff u? There was a bit of witty banter in the beginning and then the characters fell flat and one dimensional. The storyline became boring. The MC’s were not developed at all. Skimmed a lot of this book.
Shannon is forced into an arranged marriage with Dmitry. He basically keeps her locked up
In a penthouse. He visits occasionally to have sex. Shannon says EFF YOU! Overandoverandoverandoverandover again. Literally the same scene on constant repeat.
How many time s can the fmc say eff u? There was a bit of witty banter in the beginning and then the characters fell flat and one dimensional. The storyline became boring. The MC’s were not developed at all. Skimmed a lot of this book.
Shannon is forced into an arranged marriage with Dmitry. He basically keeps her locked up
In a penthouse. He visits occasionally to have sex. Shannon says EFF YOU! Overandoverandoverandoverandover again. Literally the same scene on constant repeat.
May 6, 2022
Fucking abuse. and she likes it
What the fuck. I get spanking but he is beating her with a belt and she gets wet. He then fingers her after knowing each other for minutes... And again she likes it. In what world would this happen. This book is too wrong come on. She's just soo overwlmed by his looks that she ok to beaten. Sick.
What the fuck. I get spanking but he is beating her with a belt and she gets wet. He then fingers her after knowing each other for minutes... And again she likes it. In what world would this happen. This book is too wrong come on. She's just soo overwlmed by his looks that she ok to beaten. Sick.
August 17, 2024
Sometimes the most day of your life becomes the start of something special
This book is amazing! It includes all of the angst and grit of a great mafia story, but under that runs the tale of an unexpected love that beats all the odds. Watch out though, there are some unexpected revelations that will send you reeling as well as a betrayal that cuts to the core. The author included so many well written and developed characters that each one became an unforgettable center piece of the scenes they were in, making me wish I could read their own story. Not to mention the imagery that went into every chapter and made the book more real. I hate to repeat myself, but this book was so amazing that it needed to be said twice. I can’t wait to read the next book because I can’t imagine it being anything other than a fully immersive masterpiece.
This book is amazing! It includes all of the angst and grit of a great mafia story, but under that runs the tale of an unexpected love that beats all the odds. Watch out though, there are some unexpected revelations that will send you reeling as well as a betrayal that cuts to the core. The author included so many well written and developed characters that each one became an unforgettable center piece of the scenes they were in, making me wish I could read their own story. Not to mention the imagery that went into every chapter and made the book more real. I hate to repeat myself, but this book was so amazing that it needed to be said twice. I can’t wait to read the next book because I can’t imagine it being anything other than a fully immersive masterpiece.
May 1, 2024
I don’t know……
This is book 1 about Shannon and Dmitry. It’s told with dual POVs and has an epilogue.
I had high hopes going into this book. I’ve been in a mafia/arranged marriage kick for a couple of months. The problem I had with this book was the steamy scenes are more hate $3x than anything until near the end. Shannon is totally against him and hates him but when he touches her it’s all over. Dmitry kinda came across to me as a spoiled kid with a new toy. As the Don of the Bratva, I felt he should’ve came across more mature. Instead he kept threatening his enemies like they licked the red off his lollipop. The book was over 80% before he really did anything.
Between Shannon being wishy washy and Dmitry acting like a spoiled brat I was totally over this book 50% into it. I went ahead and finished it, but was kinda disappointed. Maybe it just wasn’t my cup of tea.
This is book 1 about Shannon and Dmitry. It’s told with dual POVs and has an epilogue.
I had high hopes going into this book. I’ve been in a mafia/arranged marriage kick for a couple of months. The problem I had with this book was the steamy scenes are more hate $3x than anything until near the end. Shannon is totally against him and hates him but when he touches her it’s all over. Dmitry kinda came across to me as a spoiled kid with a new toy. As the Don of the Bratva, I felt he should’ve came across more mature. Instead he kept threatening his enemies like they licked the red off his lollipop. The book was over 80% before he really did anything.
Between Shannon being wishy washy and Dmitry acting like a spoiled brat I was totally over this book 50% into it. I went ahead and finished it, but was kinda disappointed. Maybe it just wasn’t my cup of tea.
June 14, 2022
DNF terrible
The characters are unbelievable. The father pushes his son and tells him how he needs a queen but then he treats her like she's a body holding a title. And come on now, there's not a woman in the world that would lose that game of chicken. Bottom line, poorly written regurgitated nonsense that contridicted itself.
The characters are unbelievable. The father pushes his son and tells him how he needs a queen but then he treats her like she's a body holding a title. And come on now, there's not a woman in the world that would lose that game of chicken. Bottom line, poorly written regurgitated nonsense that contridicted itself.
March 17, 2023
Dmitry Nikolaev è l'erede della Bratva di New York. Dopo la morte del padre ad opera di una fazione rivale scopre che il caro paparino nella sua (non tanto)lunga vita gli ha anche trovato moglie. L'unica figlia, pare, del capoclan mafioso dei McNulty, cresciuta da genitori adottivi che in qualche modo hanno intascato soldi su soldi ma poi presi dal rimorso hanno provato a nascondersi per salvare la loro pargoletta dal triste destino che l'attendeva. Senza cambiare nome. O senza scappare da New York. Sta gente è proprio geniale ohibò.
Non che la nostra lei brilli per intelligenza. E' adottata e lo sai perché mammà e papà nemmeno il cognome ti hanno cambiato (e un pelo qualche domanda non ti viene da farti eh), ti fanno prendere lezioni di ballo, di ETICHETTA che Csaba della Zorza scansate te lo mostra lei come si apparecchia una tavola. E quando mostri un brillume di vita neurale tanto da chiedere alla Madre perché ti devi sobbarcare tali rotture di scatole (che poi, personalmente io adorerei farle ma sono vecchia. Dentro. Anche fuori. Vecchia ovunque insomma) la risposta è
«La mamma dice che è tutta una questione di “io che sono adottata”» dico con una mezza alzata di spalle. «Che sentono di dover essere più protettivi.»
...
ok. Più che di galateo vi prego fate frequentare ai genitori il corso "Come mentire al tuo pargolo e cavartela in modo decente" e al pargolo in questione il corso "fatti una domanda e datti la risposta" del caro prof. Marzullo.
Ma dunque ecco che lui scopre che si deve sposare con lei. Lei scopre che ha un marito che la attende. Si odiano ed è l'unica cosa normale di tutta la storia, per quanto possa essere normale un romanzo del genere. Vengono entrambi catapultati in una situazione da cui non possono sfuggire, si odiano. Ci sta, ottimo, meraviglioso...
E poi la catastrofe.
Lei è rinchiusa in una prigione (di lusso ma sempre prigione è), da lui che la ignora se non per andare a vederla una tantum per cinque secondi. Eppure ha le ovaie che bramano lui, il suo tocco, le sue mani, il suo megagalattico Coso. E poi dal nulla ..SBAM.. si innamora. Come se non ci fosse un domani. Di uno che la tiene rinchiusa e va da lei solo per usarla come un sex toy autopulente.
Ovviamente non che Lui, capo della mafia, dimostri maggior vitalità neuronale. Si innamora di lei senza farci una reale conversazione. Della serie, mi innamoro delle poppe. Poi se l'appendice cervellotica sa anche ragionare in modo decente meglio per me.
Ok è un romance , so che non si aspira a premi nobel. Ma mi spiegate perché è come se l'aver scritto un romance porti a resettare tutto quello che potrebbe essere un testo scritto in modo decente? Cioè non è che uno scrive una trama coerente non debba metterci scene di sesso selvaggio .
qualcuno lo spieghi un po' alle autrici eh.
Non che la nostra lei brilli per intelligenza. E' adottata e lo sai perché mammà e papà nemmeno il cognome ti hanno cambiato (e un pelo qualche domanda non ti viene da farti eh), ti fanno prendere lezioni di ballo, di ETICHETTA che Csaba della Zorza scansate te lo mostra lei come si apparecchia una tavola. E quando mostri un brillume di vita neurale tanto da chiedere alla Madre perché ti devi sobbarcare tali rotture di scatole (che poi, personalmente io adorerei farle ma sono vecchia. Dentro. Anche fuori. Vecchia ovunque insomma) la risposta è
«La mamma dice che è tutta una questione di “io che sono adottata”» dico con una mezza alzata di spalle. «Che sentono di dover essere più protettivi.»
...
ok. Più che di galateo vi prego fate frequentare ai genitori il corso "Come mentire al tuo pargolo e cavartela in modo decente" e al pargolo in questione il corso "fatti una domanda e datti la risposta" del caro prof. Marzullo.
Ma dunque ecco che lui scopre che si deve sposare con lei. Lei scopre che ha un marito che la attende. Si odiano ed è l'unica cosa normale di tutta la storia, per quanto possa essere normale un romanzo del genere. Vengono entrambi catapultati in una situazione da cui non possono sfuggire, si odiano. Ci sta, ottimo, meraviglioso...
E poi la catastrofe.
Lei è rinchiusa in una prigione (di lusso ma sempre prigione è), da lui che la ignora se non per andare a vederla una tantum per cinque secondi. Eppure ha le ovaie che bramano lui, il suo tocco, le sue mani, il suo megagalattico Coso. E poi dal nulla ..SBAM.. si innamora. Come se non ci fosse un domani. Di uno che la tiene rinchiusa e va da lei solo per usarla come un sex toy autopulente.
Ovviamente non che Lui, capo della mafia, dimostri maggior vitalità neuronale. Si innamora di lei senza farci una reale conversazione. Della serie, mi innamoro delle poppe. Poi se l'appendice cervellotica sa anche ragionare in modo decente meglio per me.
Ok è un romance , so che non si aspira a premi nobel. Ma mi spiegate perché è come se l'aver scritto un romance porti a resettare tutto quello che potrebbe essere un testo scritto in modo decente? Cioè non è che uno scrive una trama coerente non debba metterci scene di sesso selvaggio .
qualcuno lo spieghi un po' alle autrici eh.
July 4, 2022
Just the same as every other mafia romance book really.
Don't get me wrong I will probably end up reading the others in the series.
Don't get me wrong I will probably end up reading the others in the series.
April 30, 2022
Man oh Man!!! What a read was Dmitry Nikolaev by Naomi West!!! It’s the story of Dmitry and Shannon. His father passes unexpectedly and he is now don. He doesn’t know about the contract made for him years earlier. Now, he is to be wed.
Unbelievably hard-hitting, intense, and hugely romantic story!!!! These two knock it out of the park with their constant fighting, trash-talking, and so much more….when underneath it all, romance blooms. Outside forces threaten to doom them all!!! But, who is responsible??? Fantastic story!!!
I am volunteering to leave a review for an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Unbelievably hard-hitting, intense, and hugely romantic story!!!! These two knock it out of the park with their constant fighting, trash-talking, and so much more….when underneath it all, romance blooms. Outside forces threaten to doom them all!!! But, who is responsible??? Fantastic story!!!
I am volunteering to leave a review for an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 1, 2022
Shannon was living a normal life until the night Dmitry came for her, that is when she learns that there is an agreement that she will be his wife. He isn’t looking for love but just wants an heir. Will they chemistry they share become more or will she try to leave? Fast-paced read with loads of drama, emotion and sizzling scenes. Great characters with lots of depth and an entertaining story. I really liked it.
September 22, 2022
I always seem to find myself drawn to mafia stories and here is another series that has me invested.
This story has an arranged marriage, spice, rivalry and a surprise plot twist that I did not see coming.
Dmitry suddently finds himself leading the Russian mafia in NYC after a metting with a rival mob leader goes south and put him into power far earlier than he anticipated. Once stepping into that role, he finds out that he has been destined to marry Shannon since they were kids and the craziness ensues. It is not an easy road to love for either Shannon or Dmitry, but despite the bumps along they way, they do end up finding their happily ever after and an understanding with each other.
The book is well paced and the twist at the end had be needing to finish the book as quickly as possible- I was not prepared for the bombshell that was dropped and the way it was first introduced and then discovered was fantastic. That secret was not something I had seen in a mafia romance that I had previously read and it was nice to see- especially since it turned everything Shannon knew about her past and upbringing completly upside down. It was also really interesting to see Shannon right in the middle of the fighting between Dmitry and his enemy. A lot of mafia stories I have read have had the FMC kidnapped and tortured as a way to get back at the MMC, but I have never seen one that was placed directly in the middle of the fight so that was a pleasant surprise.
My one complaint about this story is that Shannon was not consistently strong like a lot of FMC's in mafia novels. She did have a bit of fight in her but as certain situatuins progressed (especially fights with Dmitry that led to spicy moments), it was almost like he could lay a hand on her cheek and suddenly she was putty in his hands to do with what he pleases. Don't get me wrong, I loved the spicy moments and they were really well written. I just would have loved to have seen a bit more push out of her.
This story has an arranged marriage, spice, rivalry and a surprise plot twist that I did not see coming.
Dmitry suddently finds himself leading the Russian mafia in NYC after a metting with a rival mob leader goes south and put him into power far earlier than he anticipated. Once stepping into that role, he finds out that he has been destined to marry Shannon since they were kids and the craziness ensues. It is not an easy road to love for either Shannon or Dmitry, but despite the bumps along they way, they do end up finding their happily ever after and an understanding with each other.
The book is well paced and the twist at the end had be needing to finish the book as quickly as possible- I was not prepared for the bombshell that was dropped and the way it was first introduced and then discovered was fantastic. That secret was not something I had seen in a mafia romance that I had previously read and it was nice to see- especially since it turned everything Shannon knew about her past and upbringing completly upside down. It was also really interesting to see Shannon right in the middle of the fighting between Dmitry and his enemy. A lot of mafia stories I have read have had the FMC kidnapped and tortured as a way to get back at the MMC, but I have never seen one that was placed directly in the middle of the fight so that was a pleasant surprise.
My one complaint about this story is that Shannon was not consistently strong like a lot of FMC's in mafia novels. She did have a bit of fight in her but as certain situatuins progressed (especially fights with Dmitry that led to spicy moments), it was almost like he could lay a hand on her cheek and suddenly she was putty in his hands to do with what he pleases. Don't get me wrong, I loved the spicy moments and they were really well written. I just would have loved to have seen a bit more push out of her.
February 5, 2023
This book was disappointing, it started out decent, I thought the writing was pretty good but as other reviewers have said there is a major lack of continuity. A lot of things in this book just don’t make any sense.
This is a dark mafia arranged marriage trope and focuses on Dmitry Nikolaev who is Russian Bratva and Shannon McNulty who has been raised by her adoptive parents with no idea of her Irish mafia routes. When Dmitry’s father is killed leaving him head of the family he finds out he has been betrothed to Shannon since she was a child. She was the price to end a war between the Irish and the Russians. Now he’s all set to marry a reluctant bride who also had no idea of her future role at his side.
This set up is typically my jam but the book was just not good. World building and character development was kind of pathetic. Basically he spanks her, beats her with a belt, gets turned on they have sex. at 60% of this book I did not care about either one. They were not working for a common good. there were some fish out of water type characteristics but really she was too stupid to die.
Neither character was overly likelable. I just gave up. I might try to second book to see if it gets better but I really on the fence with this book.
This is a dark mafia arranged marriage trope and focuses on Dmitry Nikolaev who is Russian Bratva and Shannon McNulty who has been raised by her adoptive parents with no idea of her Irish mafia routes. When Dmitry’s father is killed leaving him head of the family he finds out he has been betrothed to Shannon since she was a child. She was the price to end a war between the Irish and the Russians. Now he’s all set to marry a reluctant bride who also had no idea of her future role at his side.
This set up is typically my jam but the book was just not good. World building and character development was kind of pathetic. Basically he spanks her, beats her with a belt, gets turned on they have sex. at 60% of this book I did not care about either one. They were not working for a common good. there were some fish out of water type characteristics but really she was too stupid to die.
Neither character was overly likelable. I just gave up. I might try to second book to see if it gets better but I really on the fence with this book.
July 18, 2022
The arranged marriage trope is my actual kryptonite - throw in the mafia and it’s usually an instant 5 stars for me (I know - I’m easy to please) and this book had both of those ingredients but it was just…lacking?
Don’t get me wrong; it’s a good book, and you’ll definitely finish it without waiting in God’s customer service line to ask for your time back BUT it was missing some components that could have made it really stellar like more emotions from both MMC AND FMC. Their entire dynamic was very “hate, sex, hate, hate sex hate oh wait sprinkle some love”
It also could have benefit from some really basic errors being avoided like the FMC mentioning she lives on the first floor and can step into the grass from her window and then mentioning she saw the elevator doors open when the goons came to get her…little silly things but they make the readers face go 🤔
Overall, it was an alright read. Not sure if I’m tempted to continue the series because it seems this year I’ve found by backbone and refuse to continue a series just because my OCD compels me to finish what I start. 2022 me will not continue if the first book didn’t bring all the fireworks…y’know?
Don’t get me wrong; it’s a good book, and you’ll definitely finish it without waiting in God’s customer service line to ask for your time back BUT it was missing some components that could have made it really stellar like more emotions from both MMC AND FMC. Their entire dynamic was very “hate, sex, hate, hate sex hate oh wait sprinkle some love”
It also could have benefit from some really basic errors being avoided like the FMC mentioning she lives on the first floor and can step into the grass from her window and then mentioning she saw the elevator doors open when the goons came to get her…little silly things but they make the readers face go 🤔
Overall, it was an alright read. Not sure if I’m tempted to continue the series because it seems this year I’ve found by backbone and refuse to continue a series just because my OCD compels me to finish what I start. 2022 me will not continue if the first book didn’t bring all the fireworks…y’know?
December 14, 2022
DNF 88% This book was disappointing, it started out decent, I thought the writing was pretty good but as other reviewers have said there is a major lack of continuity. A lot of things in this book just don’t make any sense.
Also, as a Sims player, I can’t get over the fact that she’s on the phone with her friend and is like “oh let’s randomly play the sims” so they play the sims together? It’s not a multiplayer game so I guess maybe they played their own saves and just talked on the phone at the same time? And it was the Sims 3 I am assuming based on the fact that Vicki she bought the Pets expansion. The problem with this is that Shannon said she had a new “high end laptop.” Well if the author had done any research she would know that the Sims 3 only works on computers from like a decade ago, because the game is over a decade old! Unless Shannon modded her game? But she seems too stupid to be able to figure that kind of thing out. I’m sorry but I just can’t except this completely unrealistic premise.
Also, as a Sims player, I can’t get over the fact that she’s on the phone with her friend and is like “oh let’s randomly play the sims” so they play the sims together? It’s not a multiplayer game so I guess maybe they played their own saves and just talked on the phone at the same time? And it was the Sims 3 I am assuming based on the fact that Vicki she bought the Pets expansion. The problem with this is that Shannon said she had a new “high end laptop.” Well if the author had done any research she would know that the Sims 3 only works on computers from like a decade ago, because the game is over a decade old! Unless Shannon modded her game? But she seems too stupid to be able to figure that kind of thing out. I’m sorry but I just can’t except this completely unrealistic premise.
July 14, 2022
3.3 ⭐
It was a fun read tbh. I dive into this knowing what i would get, and i enjoyed the story. Despite the messy and twisted concept, I did like some of the scenes. It was Stockholm Syndrome for sure, the possesiveness is over the top, standard damsel-in-distress female character, but I actually found myself reading this nonstop.
For those who want to read something without nit-picking every sentence and get offended by the cliche themes in this book, stay away. This book is only for people who want to read for fun without analysing the behaviour or anything like that. This book is for enjoyment. And I enjoyed it.
Of course they are some aspects i didnt agree with, but again, this book isnt to teach you good things like in schools. And i am not in the mood for anything serious, and i wanna something cliche like wattpad or something, and this book has that. I like it, i dont hate or love it, but i quite like it.
It was a fun read tbh. I dive into this knowing what i would get, and i enjoyed the story. Despite the messy and twisted concept, I did like some of the scenes. It was Stockholm Syndrome for sure, the possesiveness is over the top, standard damsel-in-distress female character, but I actually found myself reading this nonstop.
For those who want to read something without nit-picking every sentence and get offended by the cliche themes in this book, stay away. This book is only for people who want to read for fun without analysing the behaviour or anything like that. This book is for enjoyment. And I enjoyed it.
Of course they are some aspects i didnt agree with, but again, this book isnt to teach you good things like in schools. And i am not in the mood for anything serious, and i wanna something cliche like wattpad or something, and this book has that. I like it, i dont hate or love it, but i quite like it.
September 8, 2024
No está mal.
La relación entre los hermanos y con sus padres me gusta. Que exista una vida de la protagonista fuera de la mafia que no se ve interrumpida completamente por su matrimonio forzado, también me ha gustado. Toda la trama de conflictos entre familias mafiosas y las escenas de violencia son aceptables. Las escenas spicy entre los protagonistas no son de lo mejor, pero no están mal.
Sin embargo, algo falla en este libro que no termina de convencer, aunque me ha gustado. Algo ha faltado en su ejecución, porque todo lo demás parece correcto para ser un libro mejor.
Espero que lo consiga en los siguientes libros de los hermanos Nikolaev.
La relación entre los hermanos y con sus padres me gusta. Que exista una vida de la protagonista fuera de la mafia que no se ve interrumpida completamente por su matrimonio forzado, también me ha gustado. Toda la trama de conflictos entre familias mafiosas y las escenas de violencia son aceptables. Las escenas spicy entre los protagonistas no son de lo mejor, pero no están mal.
Sin embargo, algo falla en este libro que no termina de convencer, aunque me ha gustado. Algo ha faltado en su ejecución, porque todo lo demás parece correcto para ser un libro mejor.
Espero que lo consiga en los siguientes libros de los hermanos Nikolaev.
September 14, 2022
Will this ever end?
A good idea written poorly, not well thought out, and the characters actions make no sense. I don’t understand all the 4-5 stars in the reviews. I only had about 20% more to read but I could not finish it. I was beyond frustrated. I love a good mafia romance, but not this one.
A good idea written poorly, not well thought out, and the characters actions make no sense. I don’t understand all the 4-5 stars in the reviews. I only had about 20% more to read but I could not finish it. I was beyond frustrated. I love a good mafia romance, but not this one.
August 15, 2022
so rushed
Lacking real substance and character development. There was real potential if there for this story if only the entire story hadn’t been rushed. I skim read most of it, quite frankly I surprised myself and finished the book.
Lacking real substance and character development. There was real potential if there for this story if only the entire story hadn’t been rushed. I skim read most of it, quite frankly I surprised myself and finished the book.
May 15, 2022
Worst mafia book so far
September 8, 2022
Who doesn't love a forced bride Bratva book? Especially when she does not make it easy for him and there's tons of action to go with the steam.
March 8, 2025
🪧 Mafia Romance (Bratva)
🪧 Enemies-to-Lovers
🪧 Arranged/ Forced Marriage
🪧 On fire Chemistry
🪧 Delicious hate to Love Vibes
🪧 War with the enemy on the horizon
🅼🆈 🆃🅷🅾🆄🅶🅷🆃🆂: 🄰🅄🄳🄸🄾🄱🄾🄾🄺
Jameson Adams and Kat Riley really brought Dmitry and Shannon to life. Especially their banter and the way they fought with each other all the while fighting the insane attraction that they felt, Jameson and Kat just made me live what the characters were going through and I loved it.
Oohhh... We have action packed scenes along with spicy times with bantering that had me hooked.
Shannon was living her normal life until fate throws the most wicked curveball her way when she finds out about who she really is and moreover her life is tossed upside down when she's told that she'd be marrying the new Don, Dmitry Nicolaev.
Trapped in a new life that she has no control over, she hates Dmitry but what she hates more are the flickers of hot sparks of chemistry she feels between them.
Dmitry might be a bit of a hot and cold kinda man but he's definitely a possessive one and a strong, dominant man who knows to take charge and doesn't back down from his responsibilities.
I really felt the emotional connect with Dmitry and his family as even though they are dangerous people but their dynamics had me feeling right and oh so much, especially when a certain incident happens that marks the beginning of a new war between the gangs.
I have to say the way Kat has done the voice acting for Vanna, Dmitry's mother was so freaking amazing. I felt the character's richness and attitude and really could see the Mafia queen as she would be. Kat was amazing.
And Jameson was.. Ahhh... Perfect🔥
I get why Shannon was out with pitchforks because the way she was forced to obey because of a destiny chosen for her yet I really loved the chemistry between her and Dmitry.
Also, I really liked Vicky as Shannon's friend and I hope to get to see her in the next books.
I'm so looking forward to the next two books in this series who are brothers of Dmitry. Loved this one.
🪧 Enemies-to-Lovers
🪧 Arranged/ Forced Marriage
🪧 On fire Chemistry
🪧 Delicious hate to Love Vibes
🪧 War with the enemy on the horizon
🅼🆈 🆃🅷🅾🆄🅶🅷🆃🆂: 🄰🅄🄳🄸🄾🄱🄾🄾🄺
Jameson Adams and Kat Riley really brought Dmitry and Shannon to life. Especially their banter and the way they fought with each other all the while fighting the insane attraction that they felt, Jameson and Kat just made me live what the characters were going through and I loved it.
Oohhh... We have action packed scenes along with spicy times with bantering that had me hooked.
Shannon was living her normal life until fate throws the most wicked curveball her way when she finds out about who she really is and moreover her life is tossed upside down when she's told that she'd be marrying the new Don, Dmitry Nicolaev.
Trapped in a new life that she has no control over, she hates Dmitry but what she hates more are the flickers of hot sparks of chemistry she feels between them.
Dmitry might be a bit of a hot and cold kinda man but he's definitely a possessive one and a strong, dominant man who knows to take charge and doesn't back down from his responsibilities.
I really felt the emotional connect with Dmitry and his family as even though they are dangerous people but their dynamics had me feeling right and oh so much, especially when a certain incident happens that marks the beginning of a new war between the gangs.
I have to say the way Kat has done the voice acting for Vanna, Dmitry's mother was so freaking amazing. I felt the character's richness and attitude and really could see the Mafia queen as she would be. Kat was amazing.
And Jameson was.. Ahhh... Perfect🔥
I get why Shannon was out with pitchforks because the way she was forced to obey because of a destiny chosen for her yet I really loved the chemistry between her and Dmitry.
Also, I really liked Vicky as Shannon's friend and I hope to get to see her in the next books.
I'm so looking forward to the next two books in this series who are brothers of Dmitry. Loved this one.
August 11, 2022
I enjoyed the start of this book, Shannon and Vickie were hilarious together. I enjoyed the authentic bestie vibe a lot.
The relationship between Dmitry and Shannon was really difficult to endure. Firstly, he and EVERYONE in his Bratva treated Shannon like an unwanted, but necessary hostage. They didn't even have a civil conversation until 77% in. Then the "big reveal" and attack happened (days later) and all of a sudden it's all "I love you". It wasn't believable, and honestly I was still plotting murder as they are planning to renew their months-old vows.
But the worst part of this book was the author's inability to properly describe movement. At one point Dmitry has Shannon chest pressed into the floor, but they are doing the whole "battle kissing". Are they giraffes? because I don't see how the human body would bend like that.
-There's a part where he spanks her (face down, butt up), then he enters her (you know what I mean) and he's staring into her eyes. Then he flips her and enters her from "behind" but then they are kissing face to face passionately. The logistics not being fleshed out was lazy and VERY distracting because it happened a lot.
-They're in the car, Dmitry is reaching for his driver's gun because his is in the glovebox and it will not open because of the crash. So he has ONE gun. Then Shannon mentions she wants a gun, he gives it to her, then turns and shoots someone. HOW? He had one gun and gave it to Shannon.. there are NO MORE GUNS!!
In short, I will not be continuing this series. This book irritated me too much, and I don't have hope the author's writing will improve.
The relationship between Dmitry and Shannon was really difficult to endure. Firstly, he and EVERYONE in his Bratva treated Shannon like an unwanted, but necessary hostage. They didn't even have a civil conversation until 77% in. Then the "big reveal" and attack happened (days later) and all of a sudden it's all "I love you". It wasn't believable, and honestly I was still plotting murder as they are planning to renew their months-old vows.
But the worst part of this book was the author's inability to properly describe movement. At one point Dmitry has Shannon chest pressed into the floor, but they are doing the whole "battle kissing". Are they giraffes? because I don't see how the human body would bend like that.
-There's a part where he spanks her (face down, butt up), then he enters her (you know what I mean) and he's staring into her eyes. Then he flips her and enters her from "behind" but then they are kissing face to face passionately. The logistics not being fleshed out was lazy and VERY distracting because it happened a lot.
-They're in the car, Dmitry is reaching for his driver's gun because his is in the glovebox and it will not open because of the crash. So he has ONE gun. Then Shannon mentions she wants a gun, he gives it to her, then turns and shoots someone. HOW? He had one gun and gave it to Shannon.. there are NO MORE GUNS!!
In short, I will not be continuing this series. This book irritated me too much, and I don't have hope the author's writing will improve.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 21, 2025
Audiobook narrators:
Jameson Adams as Dmitry: 5/5 - Sexy voice and didn't do a Russian accent.
Kat Riley: 5/5 - I liked the slight rasp of her voice.
I liked the idea of the story but not the characters. I disliked the female main character more than the male main character. Most of their sex was hate sex. She'd push his buttons, he'd "punish" her, they'd fall all over each other and then right after she'd get mad or stay mad at him. Also, how many times could she say "F*ck you!" That may as well have been his name for as often as she said it. But the most irritating habit of hers was defying him, pushing his buttons and saying mean things without thinking knowing full well what he'd say ... the same thing he told her from the very beginning which was to threaten her parents and her best friend. Any sane person who feared for their loved ones would not act like that. All I'm saying is that she wasn't certain she had enough sway over him to know he wouldn't actually harm them.
The switch from all that hostile foreplay to the love portion felt weirdly off. Their sexual chemistry was intense, but I didn't feel the romance. And towards the end their lives are at stake, the villain has already injured Dmitry severely, and she knows he'll finish them off if she doesn't act. What does she do?
I’m not made for this. I don’t belong here.
And I can’t kill. Not even to save myself.
Sigh. Not even to save the man she loves? What if she'd had children and their lives were at stake? Or her parents? Her best friend?
I will not be continuing with Gavriil and Bastien's stories.
Jameson Adams as Dmitry: 5/5 - Sexy voice and didn't do a Russian accent.
Kat Riley: 5/5 - I liked the slight rasp of her voice.
I liked the idea of the story but not the characters. I disliked the female main character more than the male main character. Most of their sex was hate sex. She'd push his buttons, he'd "punish" her, they'd fall all over each other and then right after she'd get mad or stay mad at him. Also, how many times could she say "F*ck you!" That may as well have been his name for as often as she said it. But the most irritating habit of hers was defying him, pushing his buttons and saying mean things without thinking knowing full well what he'd say ... the same thing he told her from the very beginning which was to threaten her parents and her best friend. Any sane person who feared for their loved ones would not act like that. All I'm saying is that she wasn't certain she had enough sway over him to know he wouldn't actually harm them.
The switch from all that hostile foreplay to the love portion felt weirdly off. Their sexual chemistry was intense, but I didn't feel the romance. And towards the end their lives are at stake, the villain has already injured Dmitry severely, and she knows he'll finish them off if she doesn't act. What does she do?
I’m not made for this. I don’t belong here.
And I can’t kill. Not even to save myself.
Sigh. Not even to save the man she loves? What if she'd had children and their lives were at stake? Or her parents? Her best friend?
I will not be continuing with Gavriil and Bastien's stories.
May 12, 2022
Dmitry Nikolaev is book one in the Nikolaev Bratva trilogy. This is an aged gap trope, arrange/forced marriage, hate-to-love feels, enemies-to-lovers captive/captor romance, mafia bride. The story is fast paced and engrossing. The characters are tantalizing, thrilling and intense. It's easy read and flows seamlessly from page to page. Dmitry became the Don of the Nikolaev Bratva after his father was gunned down on his way to a meeting to Don Andrushka of the Los Verdugos Cartel who had truce with for ten years. Shannon McNulty is an Irish princess and has been grooming all her life to be a mafia bride unbeknowing to her. She was adopted as a child and doesn't know her biological parents. Dmitry doesn't do relationships. He broken, damaged and broody and prefers one night stands. However, the death of his father his mother suggested that he takes bride.
Shannon is beautiful, sassy and sheltered just school and her friends. When Dmitry found documents that Shannon dad had sign her over to him to his bride he went to her house and abducted her. He also found out that she was his enemy's daughter so he he dragged her down the aisle kicking and screaming. This story is steamy, filled with suspense, drama, danger, lies, rivalry, lust, passion, murder, bloodshed, violence, action packed, mob war, enemies, secrets, threat, tragedy, revenge, retaliation, kidnapping non-con, con, and love.
I received an advanced copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Shannon is beautiful, sassy and sheltered just school and her friends. When Dmitry found documents that Shannon dad had sign her over to him to his bride he went to her house and abducted her. He also found out that she was his enemy's daughter so he he dragged her down the aisle kicking and screaming. This story is steamy, filled with suspense, drama, danger, lies, rivalry, lust, passion, murder, bloodshed, violence, action packed, mob war, enemies, secrets, threat, tragedy, revenge, retaliation, kidnapping non-con, con, and love.
I received an advanced copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 30, 2025
I powered through and finished the book, I was going to DNF … I didn’t enjoy it personally. It was honestly a struggle to get through. Yes, it was spicy, there was that…but… something major was missing.
Shannon, the main character, was incredibly immature, and that made it really hard to connect with her. I usually love the arranged marriage + mafia trope, but this one felt off. Dimitry started solid, but as the story progressed, his arc lost its edge. Things just didn’t flow well, and some of Shannon’s choices didn’t even make sense for her character or the situation she was in, it felt forced and fell flat… The only thing she had going was the supposedly "beauty" with the blonde ringlet hair, the body, but that was it!
Worst of all, she wasn’t even a good friend. Vicky was actively looking for love, and Shannon didn’t seem to care or even try to help. That rubbed me the wrong way. She was just self-centered and a garbage human who expected things to go her way always and pretended to care 🙄 and when FMC has no self preservation bone, it’s usually over for me and this one? I felt like I should maybe stopped… but I just DNFd a book so I had to continue… sigh…
One of the very few highlights was Vicky, Shannon’s friend, she brought some fun energy and I actually wished she had more chapters or she was the FMC. I was really hoping she'd end up with one of the brothers or have her own storyline, she’s that good, compared to the FMC especially…
All in all, I won’t be continuing the series...
Shannon, the main character, was incredibly immature, and that made it really hard to connect with her. I usually love the arranged marriage + mafia trope, but this one felt off. Dimitry started solid, but as the story progressed, his arc lost its edge. Things just didn’t flow well, and some of Shannon’s choices didn’t even make sense for her character or the situation she was in, it felt forced and fell flat… The only thing she had going was the supposedly "beauty" with the blonde ringlet hair, the body, but that was it!
Worst of all, she wasn’t even a good friend. Vicky was actively looking for love, and Shannon didn’t seem to care or even try to help. That rubbed me the wrong way. She was just self-centered and a garbage human who expected things to go her way always and pretended to care 🙄 and when FMC has no self preservation bone, it’s usually over for me and this one? I felt like I should maybe stopped… but I just DNFd a book so I had to continue… sigh…
One of the very few highlights was Vicky, Shannon’s friend, she brought some fun energy and I actually wished she had more chapters or she was the FMC. I was really hoping she'd end up with one of the brothers or have her own storyline, she’s that good, compared to the FMC especially…
All in all, I won’t be continuing the series...
December 29, 2024
dmitry and shannon
shannon is in love with sketching. she knows she’s adopted and that her parents didn’t want her because they were low level farmers and that they send her letters often. until she finds out she was lied to all her life. she finds out that she was won over by dmitry is father in a war. she was made to be dmitry is wife and groomed to be well prepared with classes on adequate and class. she meets dmitry after his father dies and they kidnap her. she’s not allowed to see her friends and adoptive parents. she thought that her real parents were dead until she finds out that rafeal was working with her real parents to kill her husband and killed her father in law. she finds out that her father is behind it and doesn’t care for her and tells her that she wasn’t worth a bullet. she’s holding a. dying dmitry when there on their way home and get attacked by rafeal and finds out her dad was behind it. dmitry has a recovery period after they didn’t know if he was going to live or not. shannon finds out she’s pregnant when she remembers she hasn’t had a period in a minute. they get re married again after falling in love.
this is just for my remembrance of what i read not really a review.
but i was surprised i thought vicki would be working with her cop boyfriend or something where he was using her to get to dmitry but i’m glad that didn’t happen in this book
shannon is in love with sketching. she knows she’s adopted and that her parents didn’t want her because they were low level farmers and that they send her letters often. until she finds out she was lied to all her life. she finds out that she was won over by dmitry is father in a war. she was made to be dmitry is wife and groomed to be well prepared with classes on adequate and class. she meets dmitry after his father dies and they kidnap her. she’s not allowed to see her friends and adoptive parents. she thought that her real parents were dead until she finds out that rafeal was working with her real parents to kill her husband and killed her father in law. she finds out that her father is behind it and doesn’t care for her and tells her that she wasn’t worth a bullet. she’s holding a. dying dmitry when there on their way home and get attacked by rafeal and finds out her dad was behind it. dmitry has a recovery period after they didn’t know if he was going to live or not. shannon finds out she’s pregnant when she remembers she hasn’t had a period in a minute. they get re married again after falling in love.
this is just for my remembrance of what i read not really a review.
but i was surprised i thought vicki would be working with her cop boyfriend or something where he was using her to get to dmitry but i’m glad that didn’t happen in this book
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