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The Divine Corruption #2
Desires
Noxus City is full of criminals, and Nikolai Babin is one of them.
He parades as the city’s saving grace, free from the torment his family spreads, while inside, he’s as sick as those he heals.
He’s meticulous. Calculated. He uses the shadows to hide his every step. And until now, he’s never made a mistake.
That is until he meets her.
The one who he was only meant to use.
Noxus City is full of innocent faces, and Dominique Jones is one of them.
Though she was born into the dark, she uses the power of the sun to blind those to the shadows within her.
She seeks more than the world has to offer and has yet to met with anything capable of giving her such.
That is until she meets him.
The one who was only meant to use her.
Two shades of the same darkness, though one is seeking to purge themself from it while the other thrives in it. To allow the desire to win out would mean losing it all.
But with everything to gain, it just may be worth it.
He parades as the city’s saving grace, free from the torment his family spreads, while inside, he’s as sick as those he heals.
He’s meticulous. Calculated. He uses the shadows to hide his every step. And until now, he’s never made a mistake.
That is until he meets her.
The one who he was only meant to use.
Noxus City is full of innocent faces, and Dominique Jones is one of them.
Though she was born into the dark, she uses the power of the sun to blind those to the shadows within her.
She seeks more than the world has to offer and has yet to met with anything capable of giving her such.
That is until she meets him.
The one who was only meant to use her.
Two shades of the same darkness, though one is seeking to purge themself from it while the other thrives in it. To allow the desire to win out would mean losing it all.
But with everything to gain, it just may be worth it.
306 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 18, 2023
About the author
Lee Jacquot
24 books2,060 followersHey there! My name is Lee. I like to think of myself as a bibliophile who belongs to the Ravenclaw house.
I write romances that can sometimes be sweet and spicy or deadly and kinky. I'm a firm believer in happily ever afters and men who always make sure their woman is satisfied first.
When I'm not writing, I'm drowning myself in a good book, losing track of time on the Nintendo Switch with my kids, and laughing or yelling at one of my husbands practical jokes. (He likes to leave fake spiders and roaches around.)
Also, something important to note. I live off Chai and Dean Winchester.
Visit me on Instagram or TikTok to find out about upcoming releases and other fun things! @authorleejacquot
I write romances that can sometimes be sweet and spicy or deadly and kinky. I'm a firm believer in happily ever afters and men who always make sure their woman is satisfied first.
When I'm not writing, I'm drowning myself in a good book, losing track of time on the Nintendo Switch with my kids, and laughing or yelling at one of my husbands practical jokes. (He likes to leave fake spiders and roaches around.)
Also, something important to note. I live off Chai and Dean Winchester.
Visit me on Instagram or TikTok to find out about upcoming releases and other fun things! @authorleejacquot
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
July 22, 2023
— 3 'until next time' STARS
— To say I was super excited and had waited for more than 6 months for this book... I was disappointed! 🥲
— I swear, from the day I read the epilogue of "Chances," I was intrigued because I knew it was going to be a stalking romance, and the girl was a badass in the first book! But ughhwhd 🙂
— Dominique Jones, I can say I liked her! She was so relatable, and I actually enjoyed her POVs, about her self-awareness and things related to her behavior and characters because she was so natural and true! She had the same thoughts that I can say I DO GET ON REGULAR THINGS! 🫡
— Nikolai Babin is hands down the sweetest, mushiest, cutest, and softie mafia enforcer ever and a stalker, who, btw, is a doctor too? 🥵 I mean, the man was so cute! He was a stalker but liked the girl since the start, and he never once was violent or gaslighted, manipulated, or took advantage of the heroine's vulnerability and what else lmao. He was supportive and nice! 🥰
— And that ends here! I loved their characters, and Dominique's character had depth, and I actually connected with her! But the overall story? I can't say the same! So, what really happened was that this book was about 395 pages (in the smallest font lmao idk about pdf) and it was LOOOONGGGGG ASSSSS! 🫠 I mean, it had super detailing of things! I swear, even sometimes the full chapter is about places, people, their character, inner thoughts, and A FREAKING SOFT BALL MATCH WHICH I DID NOT KNOW A FUCK ABOUT!
— Dom had her own softball team while being in PR! All her POVs literally contained her thoughts, other people's lives (because she loves overthinking), and THE GREEN-EYED STRANGER! The book was super detailed, and the interactions of the leads were minimum! It was like LJ thought to add some interaction and then continue the boring rambling! ☹️
— I seriously didn't skim anything from the start because I was excited... From chapter 1 till 8, we had no interaction between the leads, and it was a total of 80 pages! I was dead? I still tried, and then we got 1 freaking interaction, and not another happened after so many pages! It was super long and overwritten! 😀😤
— The actual plot was hella confusing! It was about the cartel and the capo who wants Noxus city and wants to kill Alexi and the others. That's all I understood! About the role of Julio? (I didn't fucking understand till the end). Basically, we just got the name of Capo in the end and it's not completed! (That's why these are not standalones.)
— Julio was Dom's fling, and the main reason Nikolai was tasked to stalk her was to get information out of her regarding Julio! HE NEVER DID! NOTHING EVER HAPPENED! and to some extent, I think Julio actually liked Dominique. 💁🏻♀️
— Dominique's childhood was shitty, and I swear everything about her past, her parents was super bad! She was physically, mentally, emotionally abused, yet she lived like a ball of sunshine! and a nice person! But she had fears so deep down, and I'm glad she took therapy in the end and learned to cope with everything! That was good! 💕
— Nikolai was kidnapped, and we were just told that he got saved by Alexi after 5 days! who, mind you, was busy growing PUMPKINS! 💀
— About the Brat fmc trope? pls she was barely.... I mean she was super rude to Niko and she knew it but she said that it's her personality... and no other bf liked that! whatever! I didn't get it much and there wasn't strong dislike in the mmc's part! AND DOM WAS EQUALLY HORNY AFTER SEEING HIM. Thought she have self-control! i can give her that!
— Also Nikolai was the most normal stalker ever! Like he just stalked her like a normal stalker and not like zade or jeremy 🫢
— Lucian and Sabreena? 😭 They were nonexistent in this book, and I LITERALLY THOUGHT I'D GET SO MANY CRUMBS OF THEM... They were nonexistent! Sabreena and Dom were besties, and their friendship in this book? Nonexistent! 🤧
— It only has like 2 steamy scenes, and we got them after like 200 pages, so yeah, not that spicy! I SWEAR TO GOD, THE FIRST BOOK WAS SO GOOD IN EVERY ASPECT! IT CHECKED ALL FREAKING BOXES, LIKE sexual tension? Check. Spice? Check. Forbidden romance? Check. Possessive male? Check. FREAKING AFTER CARE. Check! PLEASE, THAT BOOK WAS THE HOTTEST BOOK! 🥵🫡😭 That's the reason I was expecting so much more from this one!
— THE GROVELING? *chef's kiss*
Please, firstly, there was no angst as Dominique got into an accident, and they had a little talk! BUT THE GROVELING WAS SOOOO GOOOOOOD! 6 months she healed herself, and he sent her flowers, food, and did so many thoughtful things, I can't! 🥲💕
THAT IS EXACTLY HOW I IMAGINED RONAN AND MILA'S SEPARATION, AFTER SHE WAS SHOT AND WENT TO AMERICA! Please, it was how everything was supposed to be... 💔 (from the darkest temptation.)
— Alexi is for real so vile, so crass, I swear his POVs are the only thing that made me laugh so much! How he called everyone different names, like he used to call Sabreena as Sally, Samantha, etc., and then Dominique as Donatella AND FREAKING DORA? 💀💀 I just can't wait for his and Sofia's book! (I'm super interested in them because she was so wild in the first book and Alexi is in his 20's too and interested in plants i guess! whatever I CAN'T WAIT FOR SOFIA TO CONTROL HIM.)
— About Jordyn and Romero, please, WTF was happening between them? We weren't told about them at all, and Jordyn was always tense and blah blah! 😒
— This story is not completed, and the said CAPO will be killed, or I don't know in the next books! TA DA.
— To say I was super excited and had waited for more than 6 months for this book... I was disappointed! 🥲
— I swear, from the day I read the epilogue of "Chances," I was intrigued because I knew it was going to be a stalking romance, and the girl was a badass in the first book! But ughhwhd 🙂
— Dominique Jones, I can say I liked her! She was so relatable, and I actually enjoyed her POVs, about her self-awareness and things related to her behavior and characters because she was so natural and true! She had the same thoughts that I can say I DO GET ON REGULAR THINGS! 🫡
— Nikolai Babin is hands down the sweetest, mushiest, cutest, and softie mafia enforcer ever and a stalker, who, btw, is a doctor too? 🥵 I mean, the man was so cute! He was a stalker but liked the girl since the start, and he never once was violent or gaslighted, manipulated, or took advantage of the heroine's vulnerability and what else lmao. He was supportive and nice! 🥰
— And that ends here! I loved their characters, and Dominique's character had depth, and I actually connected with her! But the overall story? I can't say the same! So, what really happened was that this book was about 395 pages (in the smallest font lmao idk about pdf) and it was LOOOONGGGGG ASSSSS! 🫠 I mean, it had super detailing of things! I swear, even sometimes the full chapter is about places, people, their character, inner thoughts, and A FREAKING SOFT BALL MATCH WHICH I DID NOT KNOW A FUCK ABOUT!
— Dom had her own softball team while being in PR! All her POVs literally contained her thoughts, other people's lives (because she loves overthinking), and THE GREEN-EYED STRANGER! The book was super detailed, and the interactions of the leads were minimum! It was like LJ thought to add some interaction and then continue the boring rambling! ☹️
— I seriously didn't skim anything from the start because I was excited... From chapter 1 till 8, we had no interaction between the leads, and it was a total of 80 pages! I was dead? I still tried, and then we got 1 freaking interaction, and not another happened after so many pages! It was super long and overwritten! 😀😤
— The actual plot was hella confusing! It was about the cartel and the capo who wants Noxus city and wants to kill Alexi and the others. That's all I understood! About the role of Julio? (I didn't fucking understand till the end). Basically, we just got the name of Capo in the end and it's not completed! (That's why these are not standalones.)
— Julio was Dom's fling, and the main reason Nikolai was tasked to stalk her was to get information out of her regarding Julio! HE NEVER DID! NOTHING EVER HAPPENED! and to some extent, I think Julio actually liked Dominique. 💁🏻♀️
— Dominique's childhood was shitty, and I swear everything about her past, her parents was super bad! She was physically, mentally, emotionally abused, yet she lived like a ball of sunshine! and a nice person! But she had fears so deep down, and I'm glad she took therapy in the end and learned to cope with everything! That was good! 💕
— Nikolai was kidnapped, and we were just told that he got saved by Alexi after 5 days! who, mind you, was busy growing PUMPKINS! 💀
“This is my third year trying to grow a damn pumpkin, and I refuse to let my brother getting abducted ruin the pollination schedule."
— About the Brat fmc trope? pls she was barely.... I mean she was super rude to Niko and she knew it but she said that it's her personality... and no other bf liked that! whatever! I didn't get it much and there wasn't strong dislike in the mmc's part! AND DOM WAS EQUALLY HORNY AFTER SEEING HIM. Thought she have self-control! i can give her that!
— Also Nikolai was the most normal stalker ever! Like he just stalked her like a normal stalker and not like zade or jeremy 🫢
— Lucian and Sabreena? 😭 They were nonexistent in this book, and I LITERALLY THOUGHT I'D GET SO MANY CRUMBS OF THEM... They were nonexistent! Sabreena and Dom were besties, and their friendship in this book? Nonexistent! 🤧
— It only has like 2 steamy scenes, and we got them after like 200 pages, so yeah, not that spicy! I SWEAR TO GOD, THE FIRST BOOK WAS SO GOOD IN EVERY ASPECT! IT CHECKED ALL FREAKING BOXES, LIKE sexual tension? Check. Spice? Check. Forbidden romance? Check. Possessive male? Check. FREAKING AFTER CARE. Check! PLEASE, THAT BOOK WAS THE HOTTEST BOOK! 🥵🫡😭 That's the reason I was expecting so much more from this one!
— THE GROVELING? *chef's kiss*
Please, firstly, there was no angst as Dominique got into an accident, and they had a little talk! BUT THE GROVELING WAS SOOOO GOOOOOOD! 6 months she healed herself, and he sent her flowers, food, and did so many thoughtful things, I can't! 🥲💕
THAT IS EXACTLY HOW I IMAGINED RONAN AND MILA'S SEPARATION, AFTER SHE WAS SHOT AND WENT TO AMERICA! Please, it was how everything was supposed to be... 💔 (from the darkest temptation.)
— Alexi is for real so vile, so crass, I swear his POVs are the only thing that made me laugh so much! How he called everyone different names, like he used to call Sabreena as Sally, Samantha, etc., and then Dominique as Donatella AND FREAKING DORA? 💀💀 I just can't wait for his and Sofia's book! (I'm super interested in them because she was so wild in the first book and Alexi is in his 20's too and interested in plants i guess! whatever I CAN'T WAIT FOR SOFIA TO CONTROL HIM.)
“Ah, yes. The Dora girl who has been absolutely useless.”
— About Jordyn and Romero, please, WTF was happening between them? We weren't told about them at all, and Jordyn was always tense and blah blah! 😒
— This story is not completed, and the said CAPO will be killed, or I don't know in the next books! TA DA.
July 24, 2023
This was a delicious & fun book and I am having so much fun with this series!!!
Lee jacquot is one of my favorite authors & she does such a great job with her characters!!! Dominique had my heart & I was so proud of all the big milestones she overcame! So many moments had my heart breaking for her 😭
Niko was so hot & I just freaking love me some stalker romances!!! He also made me swoon wayyyyy more than I would expect for a mafia member turned stalker. Like pls I’m in love with him. But the way he did so much for the softball girlies, I cry. my lord though he had quite a dirtyyyyy mouth 🔥🤤 & we love a man obsessed with his lady
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Tropes:
Mafia romance
Stalker
Opposites attract
Forced proximity
Doctor MMC
Bratty FMC
Lee jacquot is one of my favorite authors & she does such a great job with her characters!!! Dominique had my heart & I was so proud of all the big milestones she overcame! So many moments had my heart breaking for her 😭
Niko was so hot & I just freaking love me some stalker romances!!! He also made me swoon wayyyyy more than I would expect for a mafia member turned stalker. Like pls I’m in love with him. But the way he did so much for the softball girlies, I cry. my lord though he had quite a dirtyyyyy mouth 🔥🤤 & we love a man obsessed with his lady
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Tropes:
Mafia romance
Stalker
Opposites attract
Forced proximity
Doctor MMC
Bratty FMC
July 17, 2023
ARC Review:
There's once again trouble for the Babin mafia, and this time it's Alexi's little brother Nikolai with an assignment: watch Dominique and see if she has information on an invading cartel via her situationship with Julio Juarez, the mayor of their rival city.
Niko gets obsessed with Dominique in a physical way pretty quickly, but then puts himself in her path and finds that who she is, how she fights with him, and recognizing the way she's fighting herself, make him fall hard. Dominique is also not immune to Niko's charms and ability to surprise her - when she thinks he'll be annoyed or offended, he's amused, and it keeps her intrigued even when everything is warning her to stay away. Niko is stalking her and then insinuating himself into her life - Dominique is unaware of what he's doing, but she knows that he's dangerous. And like any good story of obsession, it doesn't matter.
The banter really was fun between these two, and it wasn't just shallow sniping. It always evolved into a deeper conversation or a further understanding of each other. Both of them experienced significant trauma in their life and it decimated their abilities around healthy attachment. By the end of this, they've both faced that and come out the other side a lot healthier. That's not something that can be said about mafia romance very often!
Dominique is a character that tried to soften herself to be palatable, and fears that if she asks for what she wants she'll be too much and abandoned. Niko becomes very aware of this and brings it into their spicy dynamic - while she is absolutely a brat, it's not only about her submission to him but also her submission to herself and admitting what she wants, and it is HOT AF. This is a bit medium burn as they don't finally give in until more than halfway through the book, but the tension SKYROCKETS so that when it finally breaks, you have to let out that metaphorical breath you were definitely holding.
There's unexpected sweetness to this one involving the baseball subplot, and we see different sides of both characters than we do in the day to day. Niko is such a well-rounded character that I think readers are going to very easily become obsessed with him. Definite touch her and die vibes, but also if he touches her he might die of pleasure vibes.
You might also scream in rage at the true villain of this story like I did. I might have had to stop reading for a bit because I was going to blackout with fury.
I'm going to enjoy my return to Noxus City in the next books! This was a gripping read that made me rage, smile, definitely cry, and swoon a heck of a lot.
There's once again trouble for the Babin mafia, and this time it's Alexi's little brother Nikolai with an assignment: watch Dominique and see if she has information on an invading cartel via her situationship with Julio Juarez, the mayor of their rival city.
Niko gets obsessed with Dominique in a physical way pretty quickly, but then puts himself in her path and finds that who she is, how she fights with him, and recognizing the way she's fighting herself, make him fall hard. Dominique is also not immune to Niko's charms and ability to surprise her - when she thinks he'll be annoyed or offended, he's amused, and it keeps her intrigued even when everything is warning her to stay away. Niko is stalking her and then insinuating himself into her life - Dominique is unaware of what he's doing, but she knows that he's dangerous. And like any good story of obsession, it doesn't matter.
The banter really was fun between these two, and it wasn't just shallow sniping. It always evolved into a deeper conversation or a further understanding of each other. Both of them experienced significant trauma in their life and it decimated their abilities around healthy attachment. By the end of this, they've both faced that and come out the other side a lot healthier. That's not something that can be said about mafia romance very often!
Dominique is a character that tried to soften herself to be palatable, and fears that if she asks for what she wants she'll be too much and abandoned. Niko becomes very aware of this and brings it into their spicy dynamic - while she is absolutely a brat, it's not only about her submission to him but also her submission to herself and admitting what she wants, and it is HOT AF. This is a bit medium burn as they don't finally give in until more than halfway through the book, but the tension SKYROCKETS so that when it finally breaks, you have to let out that metaphorical breath you were definitely holding.
There's unexpected sweetness to this one involving the baseball subplot, and we see different sides of both characters than we do in the day to day. Niko is such a well-rounded character that I think readers are going to very easily become obsessed with him. Definite touch her and die vibes, but also if he touches her he might die of pleasure vibes.
You might also scream in rage at the true villain of this story like I did. I might have had to stop reading for a bit because I was going to blackout with fury.
I'm going to enjoy my return to Noxus City in the next books! This was a gripping read that made me rage, smile, definitely cry, and swoon a heck of a lot.
July 23, 2023
4 stars
I really enjoyed this one! Niko is absolutely delicious antihero and I loved the qualities he adapted from scarecrow figure and how it was adapted to the mob. Plus, he is a man obsessed with the FMC and I’m always here for that.
I really loved Dominique as well. She was a strong heroine, and I loved that she was an outlet for young women with her coaching softball. The fact there was mental health rep and positive talk tied to therapy was another plus for me.
I do wish there was more steam. 2 scenes in the whole book was just not enough 🤣, maybe it is my expectations for Lee Jacquot novel but I expected more.
In terms of plot, I have found with this one and the one before the mafia and suspense plot line is lacking for me. Her previous duet was perfection and I loved the mafia plot line just as much as the romance, but this one seems to drop the plot line at points and I think that increasing it, for me, would make these easily five stars. Like I really truly don’t feel as if we have been told enough to keep me engaged with the mafia side of the books.
Overall, though, I loved the characters, how the author is pulling in aspects of Gotham’s villains and reimagining them in mafia world, and I always enjoy her writing style. And if that next book isn’t Alexi and Poision Ivy inspired florist, I’m going to fight 🤣
I really enjoyed this one! Niko is absolutely delicious antihero and I loved the qualities he adapted from scarecrow figure and how it was adapted to the mob. Plus, he is a man obsessed with the FMC and I’m always here for that.
I really loved Dominique as well. She was a strong heroine, and I loved that she was an outlet for young women with her coaching softball. The fact there was mental health rep and positive talk tied to therapy was another plus for me.
I do wish there was more steam. 2 scenes in the whole book was just not enough 🤣, maybe it is my expectations for Lee Jacquot novel but I expected more.
In terms of plot, I have found with this one and the one before the mafia and suspense plot line is lacking for me. Her previous duet was perfection and I loved the mafia plot line just as much as the romance, but this one seems to drop the plot line at points and I think that increasing it, for me, would make these easily five stars. Like I really truly don’t feel as if we have been told enough to keep me engaged with the mafia side of the books.
Overall, though, I loved the characters, how the author is pulling in aspects of Gotham’s villains and reimagining them in mafia world, and I always enjoy her writing style. And if that next book isn’t Alexi and Poision Ivy inspired florist, I’m going to fight 🤣
August 19, 2023
boy does lee jacquot deliver!!! this is book 2 in the series, and while I didn't read book 1, I definitely didn't feel like I needed to read book 1 beforehand.
niko was a man down so so so bad and dominique really ran him for his money!
read if you like:
- Mafia romance
- Opposites attract
- Forced proximity
- Stalker
- Doctor (surgeon!!!!) MMC and bratty FMC
- slow burn with the bestttttttt tension!
thank you lee jacquot for the arc <3
niko was a man down so so so bad and dominique really ran him for his money!
read if you like:
- Mafia romance
- Opposites attract
- Forced proximity
- Stalker
- Doctor (surgeon!!!!) MMC and bratty FMC
- slow burn with the bestttttttt tension!
thank you lee jacquot for the arc <3
July 23, 2023
In this sequel we have Dominique’s story (actually, in the final chapter of Chances, we have a glimpse of what could be expected).
I need to say something first: I really hate cheating trope. With that said, I really liked the book (even with the trope that I hate). Dominique isn’t the best character ever, but she’s real: with flaws and hopes (and thank God, finally a character realizes that needed therapy) and trying to manage the bad decisions that cross her path. Niko… well, I love him. The doctor, but also the right hand of the crime boss. And c’mon, I always love Scarecrow villain, and Niko fits perfectly (even if I wanted more about the crimes he committed). It’s a really good book, and I can’t wait to dive in more in this series.
I need to say something first: I really hate cheating trope. With that said, I really liked the book (even with the trope that I hate). Dominique isn’t the best character ever, but she’s real: with flaws and hopes (and thank God, finally a character realizes that needed therapy) and trying to manage the bad decisions that cross her path. Niko… well, I love him. The doctor, but also the right hand of the crime boss. And c’mon, I always love Scarecrow villain, and Niko fits perfectly (even if I wanted more about the crimes he committed). It’s a really good book, and I can’t wait to dive in more in this series.
August 6, 2023
Can we get confirmation of what Batman Villian Niko was? I believe that he was Hush but it's driving me insane that I can't get confirmation.
For full transparency I did not read the Chance rewrite. I struggle with rewrites so any new info that may have been provided in regard to Niko and Dom I didn't get.
With that said I didn't feel like anything was missing. I was never lost or felt the need to go read the rewrite. However, after seeing other people's reviews and I will suggest that it be read to any new readers.
So, let's talk about our girl Domonique. She pulled my heart strings. Her backstory hurt my heart. She was hardworking and overachieving but still kind of a mess which I loved. She coaches a youth softball team but specifically works with kids who come from less-than-ideal homes and/or circumstances. She was a true mentor and was made an impact in these girls' lives. I loved her for it.
What I didn't love was her brat attitude. Nothing wrong with a brat but she was over the top. There were times I just could not with her. BUT and it's a big but when she finally begs and submits it did seem all the most satisfying.
Our boy Nikko was a walking wet dream. He was both dark and light, intelligent, analytical, cold, sexy, commanding, and pure perfection. I literally have No complaints about him.
Overall, I really liked this book and the story and highly recommend. It's a slow burn but the spice is worth the wait and the interactions leading up were intense.
For full transparency I did not read the Chance rewrite. I struggle with rewrites so any new info that may have been provided in regard to Niko and Dom I didn't get.
With that said I didn't feel like anything was missing. I was never lost or felt the need to go read the rewrite. However, after seeing other people's reviews and I will suggest that it be read to any new readers.
So, let's talk about our girl Domonique. She pulled my heart strings. Her backstory hurt my heart. She was hardworking and overachieving but still kind of a mess which I loved. She coaches a youth softball team but specifically works with kids who come from less-than-ideal homes and/or circumstances. She was a true mentor and was made an impact in these girls' lives. I loved her for it.
What I didn't love was her brat attitude. Nothing wrong with a brat but she was over the top. There were times I just could not with her. BUT and it's a big but when she finally begs and submits it did seem all the most satisfying.
Our boy Nikko was a walking wet dream. He was both dark and light, intelligent, analytical, cold, sexy, commanding, and pure perfection. I literally have No complaints about him.
Overall, I really liked this book and the story and highly recommend. It's a slow burn but the spice is worth the wait and the interactions leading up were intense.
July 29, 2023
Niko & Dominique
Niko and Dominque were and interesting pair. They both are both lightness and darkness but just work so well together. Usually you get one character who is dark and twisty while the other is lightness and good. I liked that they each were a bit of both in their own ways. Dominique has a lot of trauma that she needed to work through but it also fueled her fiery side too. I hated seeing her hurting cause she was just a good person. Her with her softball team was so sweet.
On the flip side, Niko is both a savior and an executioner. It’s a wild dichotomy to try to reconcile as the book goes on but it works for him. It’s not that he is torn between these two sides but more that he is at peace with both sides. But boy oh boy is this man absolutely gone for his girl. The stalking was chefs kiss and the banter between them was great foreplay. I was surprised that this was a slower burn with tons of teasing.
As the second book in the series of interconnected stand-alones, I enjoyed seeking Lucian and Sab again briefly and I’m glad the FMC was loosely connected to the same world as book #1 so the storyline evolved really naturally. That little bombshell at the end though…. I’m eager to see where the mafia vs. cartel storyline is headed cause it certainly is far from being over.
Niko and Dominque were and interesting pair. They both are both lightness and darkness but just work so well together. Usually you get one character who is dark and twisty while the other is lightness and good. I liked that they each were a bit of both in their own ways. Dominique has a lot of trauma that she needed to work through but it also fueled her fiery side too. I hated seeing her hurting cause she was just a good person. Her with her softball team was so sweet.
On the flip side, Niko is both a savior and an executioner. It’s a wild dichotomy to try to reconcile as the book goes on but it works for him. It’s not that he is torn between these two sides but more that he is at peace with both sides. But boy oh boy is this man absolutely gone for his girl. The stalking was chefs kiss and the banter between them was great foreplay. I was surprised that this was a slower burn with tons of teasing.
As the second book in the series of interconnected stand-alones, I enjoyed seeking Lucian and Sab again briefly and I’m glad the FMC was loosely connected to the same world as book #1 so the storyline evolved really naturally. That little bombshell at the end though…. I’m eager to see where the mafia vs. cartel storyline is headed cause it certainly is far from being over.
August 3, 2023
WOOOO LORD, it's me again.
⭐️: 5
🌶️: 2.75
Desires is number two in a series of interconnected standalones based on DC characters (very loosely and super twisted which is SO fun), but I do recommend reading Chances first, not only because it's AMAZING, but because there are a few references here and there you won't quite get if you don't.
I don't want to give away too much, so I am going to list the tropes + TW below. Also, it is VERY spicy, and the only reason I didn't go 3 peppers is because there weren't as many scenes as I'm used to with Lee's books/novellas. However, the scenes there were were SO FREAKING HOT!
What to expect:
-dark romance
-mafia romance
-stalker mmc
-but he's also a literal surgeon
-strong willed fmc
-a lil bratty though ;)
-"touch her and I will LITERALLY unalive you"
-banter that is *chef's kiss*
-slow burn w/ so much tension
-lots of Russian, including a butterfly inducing nickname
-they open up to each other like they do with no one else
TW:
-violence
-night terrors
-car crash
-discussion/memories of parental abandonment
-discussion/memories of parental death
Thank you to Lee for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
⭐️: 5
🌶️: 2.75
Desires is number two in a series of interconnected standalones based on DC characters (very loosely and super twisted which is SO fun), but I do recommend reading Chances first, not only because it's AMAZING, but because there are a few references here and there you won't quite get if you don't.
I don't want to give away too much, so I am going to list the tropes + TW below. Also, it is VERY spicy, and the only reason I didn't go 3 peppers is because there weren't as many scenes as I'm used to with Lee's books/novellas. However, the scenes there were were SO FREAKING HOT!
What to expect:
-dark romance
-mafia romance
-stalker mmc
-but he's also a literal surgeon
-strong willed fmc
-a lil bratty though ;)
-"touch her and I will LITERALLY unalive you"
-banter that is *chef's kiss*
-slow burn w/ so much tension
-lots of Russian, including a butterfly inducing nickname
-they open up to each other like they do with no one else
TW:
-violence
-night terrors
-car crash
-discussion/memories of parental abandonment
-discussion/memories of parental death
Thank you to Lee for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
July 22, 2023
"Vy Sovershenny Dlya Menya"
(You are perfect for me)
"Ty Moya. Vechno I Navsegda"
(You are mine forever and always)
I went through so many emotions reading this book. I found myself on the edge of my seat for some of it and yelling for other parts.
Niko and Dominique are amazing. I literally had shivers at some of the moments these two shared. I have so many thoughts but my main thought is Thank God Nique got out of her head. I love how her character made not so much a development but a comeback to who she knew she already was.
Niko was my favorite of the men so far in this series. He is kind, polite but has a dark side aswell. I can see he cares for his brother and his role in the family but isn't all bad.
Overall I loved this story. Niko and Dominique were such a great refreshing story and I can't wait to see the next installment of this series.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶🌶
(You are perfect for me)
"Ty Moya. Vechno I Navsegda"
(You are mine forever and always)
I went through so many emotions reading this book. I found myself on the edge of my seat for some of it and yelling for other parts.
Niko and Dominique are amazing. I literally had shivers at some of the moments these two shared. I have so many thoughts but my main thought is Thank God Nique got out of her head. I love how her character made not so much a development but a comeback to who she knew she already was.
Niko was my favorite of the men so far in this series. He is kind, polite but has a dark side aswell. I can see he cares for his brother and his role in the family but isn't all bad.
Overall I loved this story. Niko and Dominique were such a great refreshing story and I can't wait to see the next installment of this series.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶🌶
April 17, 2024
3 ★ 3 🌶️
ahhh i had such high expectations after Chances and the epilogue that leads into Desires. while i could see the chemistry between Niko and Dominique, what didn’t work for me was the lack of dialogue and actual interactions between them. also, the plot was a little confusing?????? Niko says several cute things in Russian and i would’ve appreciated the translation being directly after the phrase instead of having to go to the glossary/google translate every time.
all that being said, i still enjoyed it overall and i love that the MMCs for this series are inspired by Batman Villains. i will definitely be reading the next book in the series!!!
ahhh i had such high expectations after Chances and the epilogue that leads into Desires. while i could see the chemistry between Niko and Dominique, what didn’t work for me was the lack of dialogue and actual interactions between them. also, the plot was a little confusing?????? Niko says several cute things in Russian and i would’ve appreciated the translation being directly after the phrase instead of having to go to the glossary/google translate every time.
all that being said, i still enjoyed it overall and i love that the MMCs for this series are inspired by Batman Villains. i will definitely be reading the next book in the series!!!
July 23, 2023
ARC REVIEW
This one is a slow burn on both the romance and the story, and while that’s not really my jam (I’m impatient, give me the goods ASAP haha), it was a good read! The slow going of it all makes sense in the story though, so I’d say it’s well done! Overall, I found this to be a good read!
This one is a slow burn on both the romance and the story, and while that’s not really my jam (I’m impatient, give me the goods ASAP haha), it was a good read! The slow going of it all makes sense in the story though, so I’d say it’s well done! Overall, I found this to be a good read!
July 20, 2023
2.5 ⭐️ boosted to 3 ⭐️
September 29, 2023
feeling whoreish
August 13, 2023
This was deliciously dark and had SO MUCH tension. Desires follows Dominique and Niko, who are two very interesting characters. And interesting in a way where throughout the book i am so intruged on finding out more about them and its a really enjoyable experience as we do. Dominique is a strong fmc that is snarky and doesnt take shit. She does come off somewhat "bratty" when it comes to those high tension scenes between her and Niko, but I also think that it is a way of her protecting herself from getting hurt. Niko is a very sound man. In a way that he explains that he experiences a feeling, processes it, and moves on. He also seems like he does things the way he does to not open himself up to anyone. So when these two literally clash together, we get two strong mcs that continuously challenge eachother. Their banter was so much fun and i really liked how Lee developed this relationship. I will say that it is a slow burn, but the besttttt kind.
The Divine Corruption series has mcs that are inspired by Batman villians. Niko is inspired from the villian Scarecrow. I will say that I knew of the character, but didn't know details so I looked up some of the characteristics of them in the comics. I am so glad I did that because I seriously loved how Lee tied in those details for this storyline and Niko's characteristics/hobbies. It made it to be a really fun reader experience. I will say I did pick up who the next one will be about/inspired by, and I ALSO loved how she was able to throw that little snippet into this book too. This series plot also has me on the edge of my seat wanting to know MORE! I am so excited for this series to continue. Also, how did i end up loving Alexi in this book too??
The Divine Corruption series has mcs that are inspired by Batman villians. Niko is inspired from the villian Scarecrow. I will say that I knew of the character, but didn't know details so I looked up some of the characteristics of them in the comics. I am so glad I did that because I seriously loved how Lee tied in those details for this storyline and Niko's characteristics/hobbies. It made it to be a really fun reader experience. I will say I did pick up who the next one will be about/inspired by, and I ALSO loved how she was able to throw that little snippet into this book too. This series plot also has me on the edge of my seat wanting to know MORE! I am so excited for this series to continue. Also, how did i end up loving Alexi in this book too??
August 7, 2023
I received a eArc in exchange for my honest review. That doesn't affect my rating or opinion on this book.
Desires is the second book in the Divine Corruption series, you can read it as a stand alone, but I highly recommend you reading Chances first, because then you will have a lot of aha moments. 😏
We already meet Dominique Jones, as Sabreena's best friend in Chances. She's a sassy and feisty woman. But what we didn't know so far is that her childhood was gruesome and that she still has some heavy mental issues based on that. As a young woman, she tries to please everyone, still to be loved. Something she was fiercely missing in her past. That's how she finds herself in an unsatisfying situations hip with Julio, the mayor. Who doesn't do anything without gaining something in return.
One day, Dominique runs into the good-looking, green-eyed stranger on her way to the office, who is no other than Nikolas Babin. These random encounter become more frequent, and they end up sharing more time together.
I really liked the slow way Niko sneaks into Dominique's life. Even if he isn't a good guy, and does some really morally gray shit 😅, he's a sweet cinnamon role towards her. The way they slowly build a friendship and the tension is starting to grow was sooo good.
The best thing about this whole book, in my opinion is the groveling at the end 👌.
If you don't know, the Divine Corruption Series is inspired by DC Villains. Nikolai Babin is inspired by Scarecrow.
Read if you like:
- stalker / Mafia romance
- standalone in a series
- possessive & morally gray MMC / sassy-brat FMC
- HEA
- slow burn
- Dual POV
Desires is the second book in the Divine Corruption series, you can read it as a stand alone, but I highly recommend you reading Chances first, because then you will have a lot of aha moments. 😏
We already meet Dominique Jones, as Sabreena's best friend in Chances. She's a sassy and feisty woman. But what we didn't know so far is that her childhood was gruesome and that she still has some heavy mental issues based on that. As a young woman, she tries to please everyone, still to be loved. Something she was fiercely missing in her past. That's how she finds herself in an unsatisfying situations hip with Julio, the mayor. Who doesn't do anything without gaining something in return.
One day, Dominique runs into the good-looking, green-eyed stranger on her way to the office, who is no other than Nikolas Babin. These random encounter become more frequent, and they end up sharing more time together.
I really liked the slow way Niko sneaks into Dominique's life. Even if he isn't a good guy, and does some really morally gray shit 😅, he's a sweet cinnamon role towards her. The way they slowly build a friendship and the tension is starting to grow was sooo good.
The best thing about this whole book, in my opinion is the groveling at the end 👌.
If you don't know, the Divine Corruption Series is inspired by DC Villains. Nikolai Babin is inspired by Scarecrow.
Read if you like:
- stalker / Mafia romance
- standalone in a series
- possessive & morally gray MMC / sassy-brat FMC
- HEA
- slow burn
- Dual POV
August 17, 2023
“Are you implying I sit and wait to see you walking and distracted before I place myself in your path?” That is very close to what I do, actually, rather, since I know her schedule, there is no waiting involved.
We’re not going to talk about how much I love the “he’s her stalker trope.” Niko is everything I wanted him to be. He stalks her but also forced himself into her life. She may have started out as a job but the obsession becomes very real very quick.
Dominique had so much depth. When we see her in Chances she seems nothing short of a bubble of sheer sunshine and happiness. I was severely underprepared for the pain that is her back story.
Never have I wanted to lick a man like a damn ice cream cone in my life, but this complete stranger has me contemplating subservience.
I think it’s safe to say we all felt this way about Niko. Her and Niko balance each other out so well and I found myself just wanting more time with the two of them. Sassy Dominique is the best and I love that Niko gives it right back. It’s natural. They felt real. I fell in love very quickly.
I didn’t think anyone could be worse than Alexi in Chances (to be fair I’m pretty sure I’m falling for him too because Desires Alexi is something else entirely) but Julio did just that actually. I haven’t been screaming for an FMC to leave a guy so much in so long.
Julio can suck a big toe. An infected one that’s not being treated for its gangrene and athlete’s foot problem.
I am so invested in this story and I cannot wait to see it continue. Lee you own my soul and I would read a grocery list if you wrote it.
We’re not going to talk about how much I love the “he’s her stalker trope.” Niko is everything I wanted him to be. He stalks her but also forced himself into her life. She may have started out as a job but the obsession becomes very real very quick.
Dominique had so much depth. When we see her in Chances she seems nothing short of a bubble of sheer sunshine and happiness. I was severely underprepared for the pain that is her back story.
Never have I wanted to lick a man like a damn ice cream cone in my life, but this complete stranger has me contemplating subservience.
I think it’s safe to say we all felt this way about Niko. Her and Niko balance each other out so well and I found myself just wanting more time with the two of them. Sassy Dominique is the best and I love that Niko gives it right back. It’s natural. They felt real. I fell in love very quickly.
I didn’t think anyone could be worse than Alexi in Chances (to be fair I’m pretty sure I’m falling for him too because Desires Alexi is something else entirely) but Julio did just that actually. I haven’t been screaming for an FMC to leave a guy so much in so long.
Julio can suck a big toe. An infected one that’s not being treated for its gangrene and athlete’s foot problem.
I am so invested in this story and I cannot wait to see it continue. Lee you own my soul and I would read a grocery list if you wrote it.
July 24, 2023
4.5/5 stars
Desires was a really fun read! I have really been enjoying this series so much! The Divine Corruption series is inspired by Batman Villains, and Desires focuses on Scarecrow, who is known to use drügs/t0xins on his enemies.
We first meet Dominique in Chances where she is best friends with Sabreena. Dominique can’t help but feel like she is being watched (shhhh she’s totally right). Turns out she is being “monitored” by Nikolai Babin, brother to the hilariously villainous Alexi also from Chances, due to her relationship with her politician boyfriend. Nikolai works with his brother as an enforcer, but is also a surgeon at two local hospitals. It starts as a job, but he soon becomes captivated by Dominique.
Not only was Dominique a total badass, she was a genuinely good person! She wanted and deserved all the love. Watching her coach the softball girls was so incredibly endearing to my teacher heart. It was inspiring when she finally discovered her self worth and wouldn’t settle for anything less than she deserved. Their banter was top tier! Nikolai was the perfect match for her. He gave as much as he received and he always wanted the best for Dominique.
I honestly can’t wait for Alexi’s book. He is hilarious and continues to be the comic relief with his snarky comments and inability to get anyone’s name correct. Although nothing has been officially announced, the end of this book sets up a book that I believe will be inspired by Poison Ivy. She was my absolute favorite, so I can’t wait to see where this author takes this series next!
Desires was a really fun read! I have really been enjoying this series so much! The Divine Corruption series is inspired by Batman Villains, and Desires focuses on Scarecrow, who is known to use drügs/t0xins on his enemies.
We first meet Dominique in Chances where she is best friends with Sabreena. Dominique can’t help but feel like she is being watched (shhhh she’s totally right). Turns out she is being “monitored” by Nikolai Babin, brother to the hilariously villainous Alexi also from Chances, due to her relationship with her politician boyfriend. Nikolai works with his brother as an enforcer, but is also a surgeon at two local hospitals. It starts as a job, but he soon becomes captivated by Dominique.
Not only was Dominique a total badass, she was a genuinely good person! She wanted and deserved all the love. Watching her coach the softball girls was so incredibly endearing to my teacher heart. It was inspiring when she finally discovered her self worth and wouldn’t settle for anything less than she deserved. Their banter was top tier! Nikolai was the perfect match for her. He gave as much as he received and he always wanted the best for Dominique.
I honestly can’t wait for Alexi’s book. He is hilarious and continues to be the comic relief with his snarky comments and inability to get anyone’s name correct. Although nothing has been officially announced, the end of this book sets up a book that I believe will be inspired by Poison Ivy. She was my absolute favorite, so I can’t wait to see where this author takes this series next!
July 26, 2023
I love Lee Jacquot’s writing. Her characters have fantastic depth and are all struggling with something. The plot envelopes characters’ backstories and pulls everything together without making it feel like crisis after crisis.
DESIRES is book two in Jacquot’s Divine Corruption series. I have truly enjoyed this series so far, but I think there might be something about mafia romance that isn’t entirely for me? Or at least not my favorite trope, to say the least.
Nikolai Babin is one of those characters you hate to love. Don’t get me wrong, he’s entirely lovable. But he also unalives people and stalks our FMC, Dominique.
While the book felt a bit slow at times, I loved how it all came together and how easy it was to visualize these characters in their every day lives all because of how Jacquot goes about incorporating details in every scene.
And honestly, even if mafia isn’t totally for me, I know I’ll be reading the rest of this series once it releases! Because I still can’t get enough of her books and characters. OH and it’s definitely a spicy one 😏
Tropes:
- Mafia romance
- Stalker romance
- Touch her and die vibes
- Possessive/protective alpha male/MMC
- Childhood trauma
- Toxic family
- Opposites attract
- Forced proximity
- Doctor MMC
- Bratty FMC
- Grand gestures
DESIRES is book two in Jacquot’s Divine Corruption series. I have truly enjoyed this series so far, but I think there might be something about mafia romance that isn’t entirely for me? Or at least not my favorite trope, to say the least.
Nikolai Babin is one of those characters you hate to love. Don’t get me wrong, he’s entirely lovable. But he also unalives people and stalks our FMC, Dominique.
While the book felt a bit slow at times, I loved how it all came together and how easy it was to visualize these characters in their every day lives all because of how Jacquot goes about incorporating details in every scene.
And honestly, even if mafia isn’t totally for me, I know I’ll be reading the rest of this series once it releases! Because I still can’t get enough of her books and characters. OH and it’s definitely a spicy one 😏
Tropes:
- Mafia romance
- Stalker romance
- Touch her and die vibes
- Possessive/protective alpha male/MMC
- Childhood trauma
- Toxic family
- Opposites attract
- Forced proximity
- Doctor MMC
- Bratty FMC
- Grand gestures
August 5, 2023
Desires is the second book of the Divine Corruption Series by Lee and follows the story of Nikolai Babin and Dominique Jones.
Nikolai is Alexi’s enforcer for the mafia and brother whom is tasked with getting information from Dominique since she is dating Julio Juarez whom is helping the cartel that is trying to take over Alexi’s territory. Nikolai is also a surgeon during the day.
Dominique is Sabreena’s best friend whom met in the first book and I honestly thought there would have been more interaction but there wasn’t much. The story details Dominique’s background and history in depth and shows a good amount of character development by the end of the story.
Dominique and Nikolai’s love for each other is explosive and intense even though Dominique does try to fight it. Nikolai stalks her for months and while Dominique can feel this intense stare from someone she doesn’t know it’s Nikolai. Their actual face to face meeting takes awhile to happen and Dominique doesn’t realize who Nikolai actually is until later in the story.
All in all - the overall story was great but there were bits and pieces that should have been elaborated on or went into more detail. I feel like the ending was a bit rushed and some POV’s from Nikolai or Alexi should have been expanded. The steam and spice is there because Lee never disappoints on that part!
Nikolai is Alexi’s enforcer for the mafia and brother whom is tasked with getting information from Dominique since she is dating Julio Juarez whom is helping the cartel that is trying to take over Alexi’s territory. Nikolai is also a surgeon during the day.
Dominique is Sabreena’s best friend whom met in the first book and I honestly thought there would have been more interaction but there wasn’t much. The story details Dominique’s background and history in depth and shows a good amount of character development by the end of the story.
Dominique and Nikolai’s love for each other is explosive and intense even though Dominique does try to fight it. Nikolai stalks her for months and while Dominique can feel this intense stare from someone she doesn’t know it’s Nikolai. Their actual face to face meeting takes awhile to happen and Dominique doesn’t realize who Nikolai actually is until later in the story.
All in all - the overall story was great but there were bits and pieces that should have been elaborated on or went into more detail. I feel like the ending was a bit rushed and some POV’s from Nikolai or Alexi should have been expanded. The steam and spice is there because Lee never disappoints on that part!
August 11, 2023
You know how we always wish Lee's novellas were longer? I have the solution - y'all need to read her Divine Corruption series! Desires is book 2 in the series and it's even more delicious than the first.
This book follows Dominique, a beautiful, talented young woman who's looking for someone to love her. Even if she doesn't really know what love looks like. As Nique moves through her day to day, secretly dating a prominent community figure, working and creating art and developing a friendship with the mysterious doctor, Nikolai Babin, she also constantly feels like she's being watched.
Meanwhile Nikolai can't quite figure out what it is about this sweet woman that's captured his focus. He's supposed to be watching her to learn what she knows about the cartel, but he can't seem to stop himself from inserting himself into her life.
This mafia, stalker, medium burn romance is absolutely wonderful. Both characters captured my attention and heart. The chemistry between Dominique and Nikolai as they verbally spar jumps off the page and watching Niko secretly fall in love with her a little more each time she's a brat was *chefs kiss*.
While the books are standalones, I would recommend reading Chances first as it provides a fuller picture of the world that Lee has created.
This book follows Dominique, a beautiful, talented young woman who's looking for someone to love her. Even if she doesn't really know what love looks like. As Nique moves through her day to day, secretly dating a prominent community figure, working and creating art and developing a friendship with the mysterious doctor, Nikolai Babin, she also constantly feels like she's being watched.
Meanwhile Nikolai can't quite figure out what it is about this sweet woman that's captured his focus. He's supposed to be watching her to learn what she knows about the cartel, but he can't seem to stop himself from inserting himself into her life.
This mafia, stalker, medium burn romance is absolutely wonderful. Both characters captured my attention and heart. The chemistry between Dominique and Nikolai as they verbally spar jumps off the page and watching Niko secretly fall in love with her a little more each time she's a brat was *chefs kiss*.
While the books are standalones, I would recommend reading Chances first as it provides a fuller picture of the world that Lee has created.
Did Not Finish
April 4, 2025DNF @14%
I tried but I just really don’t care. Idk if I’m in a book slump and I can’t speak on how this book progresses or if it gets good.
What I will say is in the previous book, Dominique’s (FMC) best friend was forced to marry Alexi Babin and you’re telling me that in this book, Dominique does not recognise the surname Babin??????????????????????????????????????????????????? Your best friend was being forced into a marriage and you can’t remember the guy’s name???? bsffr rn
The FMC, for what little I read, kind of seemed like an airhead? Between the above and the fact that the guy she’s currently in a situationship can’t possible be involved in illegal activity despite being cautioned about it from her best friend that was born into organised crime? lol, bye
Petty point: why do they keep calling situationship guy a Capo? He’s part of a cartel. Capo is Italian. It is a rank in a *Mafia* setting. They’re discussing a *Cartel* - Julio would not be called Capo, lol
so far…
TW -torture, death, murder (incl that committed by a surgeon, past, mentioned), stalking, scars (sc, from a cat), paranoia, parental neglect (past, mentioned), alcohol consumption, breaking and entering, invasion of privacy, hidden cameras
I tried but I just really don’t care. Idk if I’m in a book slump and I can’t speak on how this book progresses or if it gets good.
What I will say is in the previous book, Dominique’s (FMC) best friend was forced to marry Alexi Babin and you’re telling me that in this book, Dominique does not recognise the surname Babin??????????????????????????????????????????????????? Your best friend was being forced into a marriage and you can’t remember the guy’s name???? bsffr rn
The FMC, for what little I read, kind of seemed like an airhead? Between the above and the fact that the guy she’s currently in a situationship can’t possible be involved in illegal activity despite being cautioned about it from her best friend that was born into organised crime? lol, bye
Petty point: why do they keep calling situationship guy a Capo? He’s part of a cartel. Capo is Italian. It is a rank in a *Mafia* setting. They’re discussing a *Cartel* - Julio would not be called Capo, lol
so far…
TW -torture, death, murder (incl that committed by a surgeon, past, mentioned), stalking, scars (sc, from a cat), paranoia, parental neglect (past, mentioned), alcohol consumption, breaking and entering, invasion of privacy, hidden cameras
August 2, 2023
“There’s something about him, an energy I can’t pinpoint. It’s as if the grim reaper and prince charming merged, and I have no idea if I should be running for the hills or embracing the desire he inflicts in me.”
“I can’t wait to see how pretty you are when you beg, malen'kiy podsolnukh.”
🖤🖤🖤
Every single time I get sucked in by banter in Lee’s books! I just love it! And it always makes me laugh!
I was honestly surprised when I finished reading this that it wasn’t very spicy. It has spice but I wouldn’t call it spicy and I didn’t even notice until I was done reading.
This is a mafia romance inspired by the personality of the villain Scarecrow. Our MMC is Niko, brother to Alexi who we met in book 1 and our FMC is Dominique. Niko is tasked with getting close to Dominique to get info from her. He stalks her and soon becomes Obsessed!
Dominique has a traumatic childhood and is afraid of the dark. Her favorite color is yellow like the sun because it’s bright and cheerful. And because of this he starts calling her “malen'kiy podsolnukh” which means Little Sunflower 🥹🥹
I enjoyed this so much! I can’t wait to read more from this world!! Especially if Elena who we meet in this book (inspired by Poison Ivy) gets a book! 🖤
What to expect:
Stalker
Obsessed Hero
Forced Proximity
Bratty FMC
“I can’t wait to see how pretty you are when you beg, malen'kiy podsolnukh.”
🖤🖤🖤
Every single time I get sucked in by banter in Lee’s books! I just love it! And it always makes me laugh!
I was honestly surprised when I finished reading this that it wasn’t very spicy. It has spice but I wouldn’t call it spicy and I didn’t even notice until I was done reading.
This is a mafia romance inspired by the personality of the villain Scarecrow. Our MMC is Niko, brother to Alexi who we met in book 1 and our FMC is Dominique. Niko is tasked with getting close to Dominique to get info from her. He stalks her and soon becomes Obsessed!
Dominique has a traumatic childhood and is afraid of the dark. Her favorite color is yellow like the sun because it’s bright and cheerful. And because of this he starts calling her “malen'kiy podsolnukh” which means Little Sunflower 🥹🥹
I enjoyed this so much! I can’t wait to read more from this world!! Especially if Elena who we meet in this book (inspired by Poison Ivy) gets a book! 🖤
What to expect:
Stalker
Obsessed Hero
Forced Proximity
Bratty FMC
August 13, 2023
✨ARC REVIEW✨
I've been chipping away, slowly but surely, on this book for weeks now, sneaking in chapters when I could. Mafia romances, as a general statement, are not my thing. I've read a couple of them, but none of them seems to hit right. I truly believed that if anyone could make me love the genre, it would be Lee Jacquot. Unfortunately though, it's still just not my thing. Though this was enjoyable enough, mafia romances just don't appeal to me.
Let me tell you what did appeal, though. The romance here, for one. This definitely had a drawn out tension to it. It felt like forever before the main characters were even really interacting. But Niko and Dominique had great chemistry and some lovely banter. Even the stalking piece had its appeal. And of course, Lee Jacquot knows how to write some of the hottest spice. Even if I hated this story (which I didn't) I wouldn't have anything but praise for the spice. So hot, so delicious.
So while this book wasn't for me, it is through no fault of the story. I think that mafia romance lovers will enjoy this, even if the plot seems a little off at times. Still, I look forward to more Lee Jacquot novels in the near future!
I've been chipping away, slowly but surely, on this book for weeks now, sneaking in chapters when I could. Mafia romances, as a general statement, are not my thing. I've read a couple of them, but none of them seems to hit right. I truly believed that if anyone could make me love the genre, it would be Lee Jacquot. Unfortunately though, it's still just not my thing. Though this was enjoyable enough, mafia romances just don't appeal to me.
Let me tell you what did appeal, though. The romance here, for one. This definitely had a drawn out tension to it. It felt like forever before the main characters were even really interacting. But Niko and Dominique had great chemistry and some lovely banter. Even the stalking piece had its appeal. And of course, Lee Jacquot knows how to write some of the hottest spice. Even if I hated this story (which I didn't) I wouldn't have anything but praise for the spice. So hot, so delicious.
So while this book wasn't for me, it is through no fault of the story. I think that mafia romance lovers will enjoy this, even if the plot seems a little off at times. Still, I look forward to more Lee Jacquot novels in the near future!
August 21, 2023
Desires is book 2 in this series, but can definitely be read standalone!
Nikolai was tasked with keeping an eye on Dominique because of her situationship/boyfriend who happened to be the Mayor.. And he just couldn’t look away…
✨Mafia - he stalks her, she feels him and feels drawn to him in such an intense way she can’t stop thinking about.
✨She’s bratty.. and he loves it.
✨Touch, Look, Hurt, Think about her and 💀 vibes
✨He supports her in all the things she does and this just melted me🫠
✨Plus the Caretaker vibes..
✨Slow burn.. but the payoff🔥
✨How’s that going to fit moment!!😋
(Always classic, always my favorite)
I loved seeing more from this world.. and as always can’t wait to see what Lee writes next!!🔥🔥
August 23, 2023
This is the second book in the series, and focuses on Nikolai Babin and Dominic Jones. Dominic works in media (I think) and Nikolai is a surgeon but he also works for his brother’s mafia empire. He balances his day job of saving people, but then doing his brother’s dirty work. He’s tasked with stalking Dominique, who is going out with a man named Julio, who is her sometimes boyfriend, who is linked to the organization that is encroaching on the Babin’s territory. While Nikolai isn’t supposed to get close to Dominique, he devises a way to get into her life. I like that he has a soft spot for her, but I especially liked that Dominique has a good heart and wants to help out younger girls. There are ties throughout the book to continue the larger plot, so I suggest reading in order.
July 18, 2023
Desires is the second in the Divine Corruption Series. Though it is a standalone, reading Chances, the first in the series, will provide a better reading experience. Nikolai an ER surgeon and the enforcer in the Babin empire and he needs to get closer to Julio Juarez, the mayor. Dominique is Sabreena's best friend and secret fling to the Julio. The banter, angst and tension between Dominique and Nikolai was great. I can't wait for the next book!
TW/tropes
Forced proximity, death of a parent, stalker, dislike to love, bratty fmc, child abuse, OM drama, mafia/cartel, PTSD, nightmares, ice play, orgasm denial, sex without condom
TW/tropes
Forced proximity, death of a parent, stalker, dislike to love, bratty fmc, child abuse, OM drama, mafia/cartel, PTSD, nightmares, ice play, orgasm denial, sex without condom
August 18, 2023
The books in this series are all inspired by the personalities of Batman Villains (which I love) this one is the Scarecrow
✔️ Stalker
✔️ Obsessed Hero
✔️ Forced Proximity
This one follows Nikolai who has been tasked by his brother Alexi to stalk Dominique who is currently in a relationship with one of their rivals Mayor Julio Juarez.
There is a war brewing between the Babin Mafia and the Cartel because the Cartel is invading the Babin’s territory.
Dominique now finds herself in the middle of the war. The more that Nikolai stalks Dominique the more obsessed with her he becomes!!!
This book is so good, I throughly enjoyed it from start to finish a and cannot wait for the next one!!!
✔️ Stalker
✔️ Obsessed Hero
✔️ Forced Proximity
This one follows Nikolai who has been tasked by his brother Alexi to stalk Dominique who is currently in a relationship with one of their rivals Mayor Julio Juarez.
There is a war brewing between the Babin Mafia and the Cartel because the Cartel is invading the Babin’s territory.
Dominique now finds herself in the middle of the war. The more that Nikolai stalks Dominique the more obsessed with her he becomes!!!
This book is so good, I throughly enjoyed it from start to finish a and cannot wait for the next one!!!
August 18, 2023
This was a good read! Let me start by saying I LOVED Nikolai!! A stalker who’s a bit of a softie but also commanding 🥵 And Dominique was such a relatable character! Her backstory was painful but her commitment to helping others was amazing!
These two together was tension filled but I needed more spice!!!!! Lee is notorious for her spice and I just thought it would have more. This series has intrigued me from the first teaser!! I’m so glad I’ve gotten to read them both so far!
The only reason this lost a star was because it was too long 😬 There was too much description that wasn’t necessary to the story in my opinion.
It’s a great series so far and worth the read!!
These two together was tension filled but I needed more spice!!!!! Lee is notorious for her spice and I just thought it would have more. This series has intrigued me from the first teaser!! I’m so glad I’ve gotten to read them both so far!
The only reason this lost a star was because it was too long 😬 There was too much description that wasn’t necessary to the story in my opinion.
It’s a great series so far and worth the read!!
July 30, 2023
Lee Jacquot has done it again, loves!! I am obsessed with this Divine Corruption series she is creating. It’s Mafia, but make it based on Batman. One of the MCs is based on a Batman villain in each book and they get a love story. So far we’ve had Lucian in Book 1 as Two Face, and now we have Niko as Scarecrow in this one. I also see you, little teases of Riddler and Poison Ivy, I see you. So in this one, Niko is tasked by his mob boss brother Alexi with tailing, stalking, just generally trying to get as much information from Dominique as possible on her boyfriend, who is a rival of theirs. Naturally the stalking has him becoming fascinated and infatuated.
What I love so much in these books is how complex and well fleshed out these characters are. I couldn’t help but feel for Dominique given her back story. The arc she goes on is so wonderful. She is bratty and prickly to protect herself and easily scare away the ones who can’t handle it. Oh, my darling Niko does handle it though. He is my exact favorite shade of morally grey. While he does kill and do other bad things, like stalking Dominique, he has a moral compass and hard lines he will not cross. He is also so incredibly patient in winning her over, and genuine in his love for her. The things he did for her had me melting. Then there’s also the fact that he’s a well respected surgeon who enjoys helping people, with a brilliant mind. Their chemistry and banter is so good!!
The plot had me in suspense too, I could not put it down. I loved seeing Lucian and Sabreena again so much! I can’t wait for the next book.
What I love so much in these books is how complex and well fleshed out these characters are. I couldn’t help but feel for Dominique given her back story. The arc she goes on is so wonderful. She is bratty and prickly to protect herself and easily scare away the ones who can’t handle it. Oh, my darling Niko does handle it though. He is my exact favorite shade of morally grey. While he does kill and do other bad things, like stalking Dominique, he has a moral compass and hard lines he will not cross. He is also so incredibly patient in winning her over, and genuine in his love for her. The things he did for her had me melting. Then there’s also the fact that he’s a well respected surgeon who enjoys helping people, with a brilliant mind. Their chemistry and banter is so good!!
The plot had me in suspense too, I could not put it down. I loved seeing Lucian and Sabreena again so much! I can’t wait for the next book.
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