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Mina's Choice #2
THE CONTRACT
Chicago’s hottest legal star is the lawyer of choice for wealthy offenders, but Mina’s courtroom victories increasingly conflict with her sense of right and wrong. When she can’t ease her guilt with her self-punishing extreme sport, tombstoning, she seeks to relieve it in other ways. Billionaire Jonathon Thomas Heun is happy to oblige as they take their relationship to the next level. Mina surrenders control and embraces her dark, dangerous desires by signing a dominant/submissive contract.
As their lives intertwine in and out of the bedroom, past deeds haunt them both. Janko Vorobiev, Jonathon’s frenemy, threatens Mina’s life, catapulting the two lovers into the perilous territory of the Russian mob, money laundering, and blackmail. Jonathan’s secrets have placed a deadly burden on Mina and the relationship. Mina’s trust in her lover is tossed onto uneasy ground. Janko wants 50 million dollars and gives Jonathon one week to deliver.
Mina wants out. Of the relationship and of their contract. Jonathon refuses to let her go.
While attempting to change the trajectory of her career, Mina takes a new client accused of money laundering for the mafia. While digging into this case, ties linking her client to Janko Vorobiev and the Russian mafia make it difficult to distinguish between what’s real and what’s not. Her career and her life tread very thin ice.
The clock is ticking. Mina’s best friend Traci is abducted in broad daylight. Jonathon has twenty four hours to deliver the money. Even less to save Traci’s life.
Even if her enigmatic lover proves his loyalty and saves her, can Mina forgive him and accept his growing affection?
As their lives intertwine in and out of the bedroom, past deeds haunt them both. Janko Vorobiev, Jonathon’s frenemy, threatens Mina’s life, catapulting the two lovers into the perilous territory of the Russian mob, money laundering, and blackmail. Jonathan’s secrets have placed a deadly burden on Mina and the relationship. Mina’s trust in her lover is tossed onto uneasy ground. Janko wants 50 million dollars and gives Jonathon one week to deliver.
Mina wants out. Of the relationship and of their contract. Jonathon refuses to let her go.
While attempting to change the trajectory of her career, Mina takes a new client accused of money laundering for the mafia. While digging into this case, ties linking her client to Janko Vorobiev and the Russian mafia make it difficult to distinguish between what’s real and what’s not. Her career and her life tread very thin ice.
The clock is ticking. Mina’s best friend Traci is abducted in broad daylight. Jonathon has twenty four hours to deliver the money. Even less to save Traci’s life.
Even if her enigmatic lover proves his loyalty and saves her, can Mina forgive him and accept his growing affection?
- GenresDark RomanceContemporary
276 pages, ebook
First published August 16, 2022
6 people are currently reading
41 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
September 19, 2022
B O O K R E V I E W
⭐ ⭐ ⭐ /5
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
-----I was provided with a free ARC from NetGalley for an honest Review-----
This is the second book in the Mina's Choice Series. There are only 2 books out so far but the third book is being written.
After a long vacation away from the court room, Mina is back in action but now she doesn't want to protect and set free evil men anymore. With a new case about an immigrant from Russia being accused of fraud and money laundering and somehow having to do with the Russian mafia, Mina is in for a tricky one. But things start getting confusing when Jonathon's frenemy is somehow involved in this case in ways she did not expect and when an unexpected death happens, Mina knows that she isn't in for a light ride.
Having read the first book, I can say that this is my favorite book out of the two. Some parts for me were confusing but we'll get to those bits in a little. This books didn't have as much spice as the last one and I'm grateful for that because there was an overwhelming amount of spice in the first one. This book was more focused on the case that Mina was working on and the Russian mafia. I just have to point out that the use of yoga posses was so random and honestly USELESS . Like what? Like there's a fight scene where someone has gotten hurt and is literally BLEEDING and then the author described the characters position and compares it to some random yoga pose that I have never heard of. I was REALLY confused at some parts where I was questioning if Mina actually loved Jonathon or if he was her play thing or something but it got clearer closer to the end. The third book is being written as we speak but I won't be continuing this series in the foreseeable future. It had a good plot but it drags... ALOT. I felt like there is possible potential for this book but I'm still not interested or invested enough to keep on reading.
I do believe that many readers will like this series but this series was just not my cup of tea and it's literally the opposite of what I normally read.
⭐ ⭐ ⭐ /5
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
-----I was provided with a free ARC from NetGalley for an honest Review-----
This is the second book in the Mina's Choice Series. There are only 2 books out so far but the third book is being written.
After a long vacation away from the court room, Mina is back in action but now she doesn't want to protect and set free evil men anymore. With a new case about an immigrant from Russia being accused of fraud and money laundering and somehow having to do with the Russian mafia, Mina is in for a tricky one. But things start getting confusing when Jonathon's frenemy is somehow involved in this case in ways she did not expect and when an unexpected death happens, Mina knows that she isn't in for a light ride.
Having read the first book, I can say that this is my favorite book out of the two. Some parts for me were confusing but we'll get to those bits in a little. This books didn't have as much spice as the last one and I'm grateful for that because there was an overwhelming amount of spice in the first one. This book was more focused on the case that Mina was working on and the Russian mafia. I just have to point out that the use of yoga posses was so random and honestly USELESS . Like what? Like there's a fight scene where someone has gotten hurt and is literally BLEEDING and then the author described the characters position and compares it to some random yoga pose that I have never heard of. I was REALLY confused at some parts where I was questioning if Mina actually loved Jonathon or if he was her play thing or something but it got clearer closer to the end. The third book is being written as we speak but I won't be continuing this series in the foreseeable future. It had a good plot but it drags... ALOT. I felt like there is possible potential for this book but I'm still not interested or invested enough to keep on reading.
I do believe that many readers will like this series but this series was just not my cup of tea and it's literally the opposite of what I normally read.
August 13, 2022
I didn’t realise there was a first part book to the series, this book briefly touches on the last book and gives an idea of what has happened in the past book which helps you understand her character.
I enjoyed the book and I liked getting to know the characters and enjoyed the plot.
Looking forward to catch up book 1 and also reading book 3 when it’s released.
I enjoyed the book and I liked getting to know the characters and enjoyed the plot.
Looking forward to catch up book 1 and also reading book 3 when it’s released.
August 8, 2022
Take a deep breath before you dive into The Contract, the second book in the Mina’s Choice romantic suspense series. As Mina tries to redeem herself from the shame she feels in defending slimy sexual predators, she takes control over her professional and personal choices. But all choices have consequences, and in this gripping novel, it seems the past is catching up with both Mina and her new lover. Get ready for an adrenaline rush in every chapter. -Joy Ann Ribar, Wisconsin mystery author
November 4, 2022
Thanks to Netgalley for a copy of this book for an honest review.
I haven't read the first part of this trilogy and think this may have impacted on my reading of this book. Found the constant mention of yoga positions confusing and distracting. Will be interested in reading the third part of this series to see how it all ends.
I haven't read the first part of this trilogy and think this may have impacted on my reading of this book. Found the constant mention of yoga positions confusing and distracting. Will be interested in reading the third part of this series to see how it all ends.
August 10, 2022
My Review
I received an ARC from Netgalley. Book comes out 16 Aug 2022.
I really need to pay attention when selecting books to read sometimes. If I did, I would have realized that this is book 2 in what is maybe a series or trilogy, thereby saving myself from the slightly dazed and confused feeling I had when I started this book. Wondering if I had missed something from the start. I did-I missed the first book with the Jonathan and Mina’s first meeting and how exactly they arrived at chapter one in the Contract. Don’t be like me and read out of order. This book should not be read as a stand alone!
That aside, this book was really, really good. Mina is a strong woman in and out of the courtroom. The creeps she represents has left her feeling guilty to the point where she does dangerous things to try to escape, but lately her usual methods for escapism is not working much to her dismay. Jonathan offers his assistance. He will help Mina escape through submission. I loved watching Mina wrestle with her guilt over her part in creeps roaming the streets. I liked how she was willing to let go of her control to Jonathan and how he, in turn, gives her what she needs and more. How he just seeks to cherish her. I loved watching them fall together and see Mina realize how much power she has in their relationship even though Jonathan is the dominant one.
This book was fast-paced and intriguing. It was very, very, steamy, angsty, fun read. The characters were relatable and believable. I flew through this book and I am looking forward to reading the last book whenever it comes out. Would I go back and find the first book in the trilogy? Probably. If only to connect the dots better. Do I want to read more by Karissa Knight? Definitely.
I received an ARC from Netgalley. Book comes out 16 Aug 2022.
I really need to pay attention when selecting books to read sometimes. If I did, I would have realized that this is book 2 in what is maybe a series or trilogy, thereby saving myself from the slightly dazed and confused feeling I had when I started this book. Wondering if I had missed something from the start. I did-I missed the first book with the Jonathan and Mina’s first meeting and how exactly they arrived at chapter one in the Contract. Don’t be like me and read out of order. This book should not be read as a stand alone!
That aside, this book was really, really good. Mina is a strong woman in and out of the courtroom. The creeps she represents has left her feeling guilty to the point where she does dangerous things to try to escape, but lately her usual methods for escapism is not working much to her dismay. Jonathan offers his assistance. He will help Mina escape through submission. I loved watching Mina wrestle with her guilt over her part in creeps roaming the streets. I liked how she was willing to let go of her control to Jonathan and how he, in turn, gives her what she needs and more. How he just seeks to cherish her. I loved watching them fall together and see Mina realize how much power she has in their relationship even though Jonathan is the dominant one.
This book was fast-paced and intriguing. It was very, very, steamy, angsty, fun read. The characters were relatable and believable. I flew through this book and I am looking forward to reading the last book whenever it comes out. Would I go back and find the first book in the trilogy? Probably. If only to connect the dots better. Do I want to read more by Karissa Knight? Definitely.
August 16, 2022
The contract by Karissa Knight.
Mina's Choice Book 2.
Chicago’s hottest legal star is the lawyer of choice for wealthy offenders, but Mina’s courtroom victories increasingly conflict with her sense of right and wrong. When she can’t ease her guilt with her self-punishing extreme sport, she seeks to relieve it in other ways. Billionaire Jonathon Thomas Heun is happy to oblige as they take their relationship to the next level with Mina surrendering control and embracing her dark, dangerous desires.
Really enjoyable read. I love this series. Can't wait for book 3. 5*.
Mina's Choice Book 2.
Chicago’s hottest legal star is the lawyer of choice for wealthy offenders, but Mina’s courtroom victories increasingly conflict with her sense of right and wrong. When she can’t ease her guilt with her self-punishing extreme sport, she seeks to relieve it in other ways. Billionaire Jonathon Thomas Heun is happy to oblige as they take their relationship to the next level with Mina surrendering control and embracing her dark, dangerous desires.
Really enjoyable read. I love this series. Can't wait for book 3. 5*.
August 3, 2022
This book is about a lawyer who represents really horrible people and feels a lot of guilt about it. She uses self destructive behaviour to cope with her guilt. At first she uses cliff jumping too subdue her guilt until she meets Jonathan, a billionaire who is intense. She views this punishing relationship as a way to atone for her sins. Unfortunately for her, Jonathan is very rich and accidentally connected to the Russian mob. His ex girlfriend is part of the mob and hates him. She is extorting him for money and Mina (our main character) is being threatened because Jonathan is in love with her.
I really enjoyed this book. I thought it was fast-paced, exciting and the characters, however frustrating, are lovable and go through serious development. The only issue I had with the book was that the first chapter was so fast and exciting and promised serious sexuality throughout the book and didn't fully deliver. It was heavily plot driven which was an unexpected surprise but I wasn't disappointed by it. Overall It was very enjoyable and deeper than I expected. I would highly recommend.
I really enjoyed this book. I thought it was fast-paced, exciting and the characters, however frustrating, are lovable and go through serious development. The only issue I had with the book was that the first chapter was so fast and exciting and promised serious sexuality throughout the book and didn't fully deliver. It was heavily plot driven which was an unexpected surprise but I wasn't disappointed by it. Overall It was very enjoyable and deeper than I expected. I would highly recommend.
August 6, 2022
I received an arc in exchange for an honest review!
I’m not going to lie, there were a few moments where I thought I would DNF this book but I powered through and I’m glad I did because it did get better. I’m personally not a fan of how Mina’s and Jonathon’s relationship dynamic worked for about 3/4 of the book. But once they reached the breaking point and precipice of the line between a “contract” and actual love, it got better. I really enjoyed the plot too, this series has substance and that’s what makes the book better in my opinion. I liked the twists and turns and the mysterious backstory that came back to haunt Jonathon and set everything into motion. All in all, 3 stars and I am curious to see what will happen in the next book.
I’m not going to lie, there were a few moments where I thought I would DNF this book but I powered through and I’m glad I did because it did get better. I’m personally not a fan of how Mina’s and Jonathon’s relationship dynamic worked for about 3/4 of the book. But once they reached the breaking point and precipice of the line between a “contract” and actual love, it got better. I really enjoyed the plot too, this series has substance and that’s what makes the book better in my opinion. I liked the twists and turns and the mysterious backstory that came back to haunt Jonathon and set everything into motion. All in all, 3 stars and I am curious to see what will happen in the next book.
November 13, 2022
Criminal defense attorney Mina's guilt over her part in keeping horrible misogynists out of prison is the most interesting aspect of a story that has her seeking punishment through BDSM. I did have issues with her reactions to some of the situations in which she found herself, but the writing is good, which makes up for it. After all, just because I would respond differently doesn't mean that Mina should.
August 2, 2022
I savored this spicy read. The Client was good, and this sequel goes even deeper, giving me a true appreciation of Jonathon like never before. Knight weaves together the various subplots into a powerful climax (no pun intended) I hadn't seen coming, and the villains are deliciously evil. I'm inspired to travel to all the American sites Mina visits which I found unique and beautiful. I'm impatient for the next installment!
August 3, 2022
The second in the Mina’s Choice Series dives deeper into tombstoning, Mina’s punishing habit, but also explores Jonathan’s darker side. Knight masterfully balances the narrative between the characters’ erotic desires with a compelling, twisting mystery that involves a long-forgotten meeting and the Russian mob in Chicago. Every aspect is tightly controlled, leaving the reader breathless and wanting more.
October 17, 2022
Steamy, smart suspense!
Yes, we like our books with a little sizzle (or a lot!), but we also want a smartly plotted thriller with intriguing scenes that take place outside the bedroom. “The Contract” delivers that and more! The author has created a fabulous main character in Mina—a seemingly in-control, intelligent criminal defense lawyer who has so many secrets. As a reader you will admire, envy, and at times empathize with her as she struggles with guilt over the clients her courtroom skills have set free. She leans on her lover, but does he offer the refuge she truly needs? This book is a fast-paced ride as Mina hurtles (sometimes literally) toward danger and the deadly knot of deception that’s winding tighter and tighter around her and those she loves. An excellent read on every level!
Yes, we like our books with a little sizzle (or a lot!), but we also want a smartly plotted thriller with intriguing scenes that take place outside the bedroom. “The Contract” delivers that and more! The author has created a fabulous main character in Mina—a seemingly in-control, intelligent criminal defense lawyer who has so many secrets. As a reader you will admire, envy, and at times empathize with her as she struggles with guilt over the clients her courtroom skills have set free. She leans on her lover, but does he offer the refuge she truly needs? This book is a fast-paced ride as Mina hurtles (sometimes literally) toward danger and the deadly knot of deception that’s winding tighter and tighter around her and those she loves. An excellent read on every level!
August 25, 2022
Thank you NetGalley and Team for providing me with an e-arc in exchange for an honest review!
3 Stars
Following Mina and her lover, the author presents a fast paced book with one hell of a ride. The plot keeps you on your toes, often wondering how everyone and everything seemed to be all interconnected. Amid the light BDSM-induced erotic scenes, the main characters are often trying to find each other in the dark world they've entered. Mina is a head-strong lawyer that is beyond the space of a submissive. She makes her intentions clear, her heart cold and her body warm when she meets Jonathan. Jonathan, however, is encapsuled with secrets and a dark past, Despite his feelings for Mina, he still struggles with opening up to her. Mina now has to figure out why and how she got herself into the mess.
This plot is undeniably well detailed and planned! But be careful, one might get lost in how fast everything is progressing. The suspense and mystery keeps one guessing to figure out the character's next moves.
Mina, as the heroine, simply does not bend to the will of others and stand her ground. She is strong-headed, which makes you root the entire time for her.
Admittedly, I read this without prior knowledge of it being the second book of a series (I really don't know how I missed that?) but regardless, it was pretty enjoyable. I was first a bit confused on how quickly the main characters got together, but now I have better understanding!
Definitely looking forward to the next book within this series!
3 Stars
Following Mina and her lover, the author presents a fast paced book with one hell of a ride. The plot keeps you on your toes, often wondering how everyone and everything seemed to be all interconnected. Amid the light BDSM-induced erotic scenes, the main characters are often trying to find each other in the dark world they've entered. Mina is a head-strong lawyer that is beyond the space of a submissive. She makes her intentions clear, her heart cold and her body warm when she meets Jonathan. Jonathan, however, is encapsuled with secrets and a dark past, Despite his feelings for Mina, he still struggles with opening up to her. Mina now has to figure out why and how she got herself into the mess.
This plot is undeniably well detailed and planned! But be careful, one might get lost in how fast everything is progressing. The suspense and mystery keeps one guessing to figure out the character's next moves.
Mina, as the heroine, simply does not bend to the will of others and stand her ground. She is strong-headed, which makes you root the entire time for her.
Admittedly, I read this without prior knowledge of it being the second book of a series (I really don't know how I missed that?) but regardless, it was pretty enjoyable. I was first a bit confused on how quickly the main characters got together, but now I have better understanding!
Definitely looking forward to the next book within this series!
October 5, 2022
4.2/5 stars
Following the events of the first book, Mina tries to take back control of her life in both her personal and professional life. As she is starting to trust Johnathan, his sketchy past comes to visit in the form of Janko Vorobiev who is deeply involved in the Russian mafia. Mina takes on a new client who is being used as a scapegoat for the Russian mafia in Chicago. Once again her involvement with Johnathan puts her back in danger.
Compared to the last book, this plot seems a lot slower. I felt that at times I was reading the same information many times throughout the book with no new developments. I understand that its a mystery and thriller and it needs suspense but I could barely get through some chapters. However, the actual plot of the story was intriguing to read about and the story itself was well described.
Even though she is hesitant to trust Johnathan, she stays with him continuing their sexual relationship as she continues to explore BDSM. I could definitely see that Johnathan cares for her, making sure she has a place to stay, a bodyguard to protect her, and the various amounts of gifts he brings her. However, I couldn't connect how Mina felt about him. I knew that she was conflicted about her emotions but I never got to the point where I could clearly see that she loved him.
The book was a good and fast read. I will definitely be reading the third book when it comes out.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an arc of this book for an honest review.
Following the events of the first book, Mina tries to take back control of her life in both her personal and professional life. As she is starting to trust Johnathan, his sketchy past comes to visit in the form of Janko Vorobiev who is deeply involved in the Russian mafia. Mina takes on a new client who is being used as a scapegoat for the Russian mafia in Chicago. Once again her involvement with Johnathan puts her back in danger.
Compared to the last book, this plot seems a lot slower. I felt that at times I was reading the same information many times throughout the book with no new developments. I understand that its a mystery and thriller and it needs suspense but I could barely get through some chapters. However, the actual plot of the story was intriguing to read about and the story itself was well described.
Even though she is hesitant to trust Johnathan, she stays with him continuing their sexual relationship as she continues to explore BDSM. I could definitely see that Johnathan cares for her, making sure she has a place to stay, a bodyguard to protect her, and the various amounts of gifts he brings her. However, I couldn't connect how Mina felt about him. I knew that she was conflicted about her emotions but I never got to the point where I could clearly see that she loved him.
The book was a good and fast read. I will definitely be reading the third book when it comes out.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an arc of this book for an honest review.
January 7, 2023
The Contract by Karissa Knight is a fabulous book following the Chicago Defence Lawyer, Wilhelmina Green and her adventures. We follow Mina on her tombstoning short breaks to punish herself for defending the guilty and letting them get away with murder and rape. The real story, however, is about Mina and her lover Jonathon Heun. We follow Mina and Jon on a suspenseful mission to try and catch members of the Russian mafia who have demanded Jon pay them a large sum of money or else lose his lover, Mina. This leads to Mina having a full-time group of bodyguards. A couple of murders and kidnappings later, but the police and FBI have still failed to catch the main perpetrator. This book will take you on a true adventure.
For my full review please visit- https://cembookportal.blogspot.com/20... (you won't regret it).
For my full review please visit- https://cembookportal.blogspot.com/20... (you won't regret it).
September 8, 2022
Criminal lawyer Mini is a strong independent woman who feels her life choices are conflicting with sense of right and wrong, especially defending billionaire Jonathon Thomas Heun. He draws her into his world both in and out of the bedroom. Her self-inflicted guilt sends her into his arms and into his world and gives him control embracing her dark hidden desires. I love this second book it definitely delivers a great suspenseful dark romance story as secrets are revealed. I have voluntarily read and reviewed this excellent story.
August 4, 2022
Are you kidding me??
So many grammatical errors...
But looking past the grammar - the book lost me, when the 29-year-old female lawyer twice within 10 pages gave a thousand Euros in tips...
Listen, if you have that kind of money to waste... there was absolutely no need to do all the dirty work for the law firm.
(I am not sure the author knows the value of Euros...)
I am moving on - It is a DNF for me!
So many grammatical errors...
But looking past the grammar - the book lost me, when the 29-year-old female lawyer twice within 10 pages gave a thousand Euros in tips...
Listen, if you have that kind of money to waste... there was absolutely no need to do all the dirty work for the law firm.
(I am not sure the author knows the value of Euros...)
I am moving on - It is a DNF for me!
August 7, 2022
This book is not what I thought. It's more a Russian crime novel with a little sex thrown in. It was listed in NetGalley as erotic but I found it tame. The sex is glossed over, especially for a sub/dom relationship.
Many times I wanted to DNF but then again wanted questions answered only to be left with two overwhelming thoughts:
1. Rich people problems
2. For smart people y'all are freakin' stupid.
Many times I wanted to DNF but then again wanted questions answered only to be left with two overwhelming thoughts:
1. Rich people problems
2. For smart people y'all are freakin' stupid.
July 21, 2024
This is the second book in the series and it starts off where The Contract ends. Mina and Jonathan are still exploring their relationship when they enter into a contract. There is also a new case for Mina when a man begs for her help. He’s been set up as the fall guy in a criminal organization that spans all the way to Russia, and it’s Jonathan’s old crony who’s responsible.
Read more here: https://wp.me/p12iNR-c0d
Read more here: https://wp.me/p12iNR-c0d
August 25, 2022
When I received this ARC I did not realize it was the second book so I did ho and read the first one before diving into this one. I loved this one way more than the first. It keeps you on edge the whole time and the spicy scenes definitely keep it going as well. I didnt really love the FMC whoch usually lowers the stars for me but the plot was very well done!
September 1, 2022
Received this ARC from netgalley and really enjoyed how this was a continuation of Jonathan and Mina’s relationship. Being able to see their journey instead of ending after the first one was splendid. There’s far more exploration into the world of BDSM in this one, so beware if that’s not something you’re into!
September 23, 2022
I enjoyed this book. It gave us more information about Jonathon’s background. I felt after reading book 1 that he was an enigma. After reading this book, I feel like I know Jonathon more. I enjoyed the plot of the book, everything involving the Russian Mob, money laundering, and blackmail kept me reading.
July 31, 2022
“Love, lust, and angst, THE CONTRACT has it all. The antagonists are evil personified, the kind I love to hate, and the protagonists are fallible, the kind I love to root for. The nail-biting action and emotional tension held me captive as I tore through the sizzling pages.”
August 1, 2022
Karissa Knight’s second book in her Mina’s Choice romantic suspense series is a pulse-pounding roller coaster ride that will leave readers breathless.
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