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The Petrov Mafia #1
Merciless Union
His duty was to choose me but his desire claimed me…
I am married off to the head of the Bratva, Maxim Petrov.
Taken from my safe home,
I’m thrust into an entirely new
One filled without mercy.
My new husband is a cold, ruthless man.
My body is consumed by him,
While my heart knows he could break it.
I want to love him,
But he’s made it so difficult.
I try to break through the ice surrounding his heart.
Can I do it in time to save our marriage?
If I can’t,
Both me and my husband will be bound together forever…
Stuck in a marriage without love.
Merciless Union is part of a four book series but can be read as a standalone and has a guaranteed happy ending.
I am married off to the head of the Bratva, Maxim Petrov.
Taken from my safe home,
I’m thrust into an entirely new
One filled without mercy.
My new husband is a cold, ruthless man.
My body is consumed by him,
While my heart knows he could break it.
I want to love him,
But he’s made it so difficult.
I try to break through the ice surrounding his heart.
Can I do it in time to save our marriage?
If I can’t,
Both me and my husband will be bound together forever…
Stuck in a marriage without love.
Merciless Union is part of a four book series but can be read as a standalone and has a guaranteed happy ending.
Kindle Edition
Published September 6, 2022
766 people are currently reading
280 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
September 20, 2022
Although the story had potentials the writing was bad. The H was not an alpha and certainly i could not describe him as a bratva leader. The romance part was rush and honestly i could not understand how they fall for each other. It was rushed.
September 1, 2022
Four stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐
“You’re my weakness, Arina.”
Maxim is the new head of the Bratva after his father passed. He knows he needs to get married so he sets his sights on a kind woman named Arina. It's meant to be a loveless marriage and Maxim doesn't hesitate to let her know that.
Maxim is cold, cruel, and grumpy but he has his reasons. All Arina wants is a husband that loves her. Can that ever happen?
I enjoyed this book. Ivy Davis is a wonderful mafia author! If it had just a tad bit more romance in it it would be a five star read for me.
safety:
virgin heroine
age gap (20h, 30H)
no OM/OW
no cheating/sharing
safe
HEA & epilogue ♡
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
“You’re my weakness, Arina.”
Maxim is the new head of the Bratva after his father passed. He knows he needs to get married so he sets his sights on a kind woman named Arina. It's meant to be a loveless marriage and Maxim doesn't hesitate to let her know that.
Maxim is cold, cruel, and grumpy but he has his reasons. All Arina wants is a husband that loves her. Can that ever happen?
I enjoyed this book. Ivy Davis is a wonderful mafia author! If it had just a tad bit more romance in it it would be a five star read for me.
safety:
virgin heroine
age gap (20h, 30H)
no OM/OW
no cheating/sharing
safe
HEA & epilogue ♡
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 20, 2022
This was another good read from Ivy Davis. The tension was good, the sexiness was well done, and the plot kept me engaged. I enjoyed this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 20, 2022
Arranged Marriage
Disappointed in the story. This story lacks everything. I can say I finished it. There was no depth in the storyline or characters.
Disappointed in the story. This story lacks everything. I can say I finished it. There was no depth in the storyline or characters.
September 6, 2022
2.5 stars. It was back and forth the entire book . The FMC had no character development. She was weak and acted like a little girl the entire story which made it even worst because it’s hard to picture someone that dense who constantly needs protection , rescuing or defending to be likable. It got so lame that every time anything was said that bruised her childish ego like he didn’t like her painting, she would run to her parents . Ruined the story
September 28, 2022
Fact check....Mafia is Italian, Bratva is Russian. Maxim is Russian
When Alina is told she must marry Maxim the only thing she is concerned about is "whether she will be able to plan her wedding". Really....how old are you? The story could have scored higher had it been unique in it's story line, presentation, or had really good characters.
This story was just a repeat of other arranged marriage novels that lacked credible characters and good dialogue with a plot that was just ok, and not well executed. An author needs to bring something unique or a "wow factor" to an arranged marriage story because it has been overly done. I am always looking for an author who is inventive and a good story teller to add some zest to this genre. This author seems to have a pattern she follows in arranged marriages that just repeat the basic same theme over and over.
Maxim is the new head of the Bratva after daddy dearest dies while banging one of his mistress and is all business and picks Alina as his wife. She is like a programmed Barbie doll that is childish, immature and a submissive glob of jelly that has no depth as a MFC in a book that demands a h that can chew gum and walk at the same time. She is trained to be elegant and do what she is told appearing visibly mature for being a good candidate for an arranged marriage; but is almost childlike/needy with little substance as a character. I like MFC who have strength, intelligence and who know how to pick their battles and know how to handle difficult men and the life they are saying "yes" too. A character needs to know when to push and when to concede in order to get what she wants. How many of these older arranged marriage mother's are bitter alcoholics who hated their husbands, are killed by said husband or kill themselves? Case in point....Maxim's mother.
Maxim is just the typical hard nosed, cold and thoughtless leader that needs a wife as "arm candy" and to strengthen his leverage as the new Bratva leader who spends more time on taking care of his younger sister than his new bride. The story went back and forth w/o any real substance following the same basic story line as those that have come before it. Authors can't expect readers to want to read the same thing over and over again and be willing to pay for it.
When Alina is told she must marry Maxim the only thing she is concerned about is "whether she will be able to plan her wedding". Really....how old are you? The story could have scored higher had it been unique in it's story line, presentation, or had really good characters.
This story was just a repeat of other arranged marriage novels that lacked credible characters and good dialogue with a plot that was just ok, and not well executed. An author needs to bring something unique or a "wow factor" to an arranged marriage story because it has been overly done. I am always looking for an author who is inventive and a good story teller to add some zest to this genre. This author seems to have a pattern she follows in arranged marriages that just repeat the basic same theme over and over.
Maxim is the new head of the Bratva after daddy dearest dies while banging one of his mistress and is all business and picks Alina as his wife. She is like a programmed Barbie doll that is childish, immature and a submissive glob of jelly that has no depth as a MFC in a book that demands a h that can chew gum and walk at the same time. She is trained to be elegant and do what she is told appearing visibly mature for being a good candidate for an arranged marriage; but is almost childlike/needy with little substance as a character. I like MFC who have strength, intelligence and who know how to pick their battles and know how to handle difficult men and the life they are saying "yes" too. A character needs to know when to push and when to concede in order to get what she wants. How many of these older arranged marriage mother's are bitter alcoholics who hated their husbands, are killed by said husband or kill themselves? Case in point....Maxim's mother.
Maxim is just the typical hard nosed, cold and thoughtless leader that needs a wife as "arm candy" and to strengthen his leverage as the new Bratva leader who spends more time on taking care of his younger sister than his new bride. The story went back and forth w/o any real substance following the same basic story line as those that have come before it. Authors can't expect readers to want to read the same thing over and over again and be willing to pay for it.
April 14, 2024
Doormat
It’s really well written and I will definitely give this author also another try. Truthfully, though, I did not I did not like the characters. H didn’t have any redeeming qualities for the heroine to forgive him, she fell in love with him and he didn’t do anything for her for him to deserve her love. I understood why he fell in love with her. She was sweet, nice and just all round kind, but he just never did anything to make up for why she fell I love with him. Well not anything that he wouldn’t do for anyone he had to.
That was how I felt though. Your thoughts might be different.
It’s really well written and I will definitely give this author also another try. Truthfully, though, I did not I did not like the characters. H didn’t have any redeeming qualities for the heroine to forgive him, she fell in love with him and he didn’t do anything for her for him to deserve her love. I understood why he fell in love with her. She was sweet, nice and just all round kind, but he just never did anything to make up for why she fell I love with him. Well not anything that he wouldn’t do for anyone he had to.
That was how I felt though. Your thoughts might be different.
October 29, 2022
Mostly forgettable
Honestly, forgot most of this plot before writing the review. I wanted to read another book in this series, so I decided to start from book one. I wasn't impressed. I thought Maxim was too much of asshole and that the family was too involved in his relationship. I didn't understand the whole 'no hobbies' thing. Because it wasn't like he was giving out tasks for her to do after they got married...so was she supposed to just stare at the wall??? Not a lot wrong with it but definitely not enough right either.
Honestly, forgot most of this plot before writing the review. I wanted to read another book in this series, so I decided to start from book one. I wasn't impressed. I thought Maxim was too much of asshole and that the family was too involved in his relationship. I didn't understand the whole 'no hobbies' thing. Because it wasn't like he was giving out tasks for her to do after they got married...so was she supposed to just stare at the wall??? Not a lot wrong with it but definitely not enough right either.
October 23, 2022
Writing is subpar
There is no depth. The writing is middle school level at best with every cliche and trope. MC are farcical.
There is no depth. The writing is middle school level at best with every cliche and trope. MC are farcical.
October 17, 2022
painful
The editing is atrocious and the story is surface level. The bones were there for a decent story and perhaps if the author went back and made it multi layered this book would be worth reading. I hate leaving harsh reviews because it’s an accomplishment to finish writing a book but at a minimum at least fix the plethora of typos.
The editing is atrocious and the story is surface level. The bones were there for a decent story and perhaps if the author went back and made it multi layered this book would be worth reading. I hate leaving harsh reviews because it’s an accomplishment to finish writing a book but at a minimum at least fix the plethora of typos.
September 17, 2022
Ich mag die Bücher von Ivy Davis sehr, auch wenn ich der Romantisierung von Mafia-Strukturen nur schwerlich etwas abgewinnen kann. Es ist toll zu sehen, wie zwei sehr unterschiedliche Menschen aufgrund ihrer Situation zusammengeworfen werden, versuchen, das Beste daraus zu machen, und eine gemeinsame Grundlage für ihr Zusammenleben finden.
So ist es auch in „Merciless Union“, der Geschichte von Maxim und Arina. Beide sind so unterschiedlich, dass man kaum glauben kann, dass sie jemals eine Grundlage für eine gut funktionierende Ehe finden könnten.
Doch Arina ist die notwendige Wärme für Maxims kaltes und gnadenloses Herz. Sie zeigt ihm einen anderen Weg und erwärmt ihn für simplere Sachen. Allerdings nicht ganz, ohne eine paar Kämpfe innerhalb ihrer Beziehung zueinander auszutragen. Als Protagonistin ist Arina großartig. Sie ist loyal, eine talentierte Künstlerin und kennt ihren Platz innerhalb der Mafia-Strukturen.
Maxim ist der neue Anführer der Petrov-Familie nach dem Tod seines Vaters. Er selbst wirkt eher kalt, gefühllos und gnadenlos. In seiner Führungsposition allerdings überfordert, wenig unterstützt und nicht respektiert. Seine Frustration lässt er an Arina aus, was ich absolut unangemessen finde. Er zeigt damit nur, dass er keine Führungsperson ist. Ihr gegenüber ist er kalt und grausam, während er seinen Männern gegenüber eher wie ein Weichei wirkt. Nicht der harte Mafia-Mann, den ich erwartet habe. Er macht sich viel mehr Gedanken um sein Ansehen innerhalb der Familie als gesund für ihn ist. Er sollte mehr damit beschäftigt sein, sich den Respekt und die Loyalität seiner Untergegebenen zu erarbeiten. Doch davon findet sich im gesamten Buch so ziemlich gar nichts. Er lässt seinen besten Freund für sich arbeiten. Aber er selbst? Rührt nicht einen Finger für seine Position.
Deswegen kann und will ich ihn gar nicht akzeptieren. Ich kann sogar verstehen, warum andere ihn nicht respektieren und gegen ihn rebellieren. Das kann ich aber auch aus einem weiteren Grund nicht: Arina. Er behandelt sie wie einen warmen Körper, der einfach nur dazu da ist, sein sexuelles Verlangen zu stillen. Er behandelt sie nicht einmal wie einen Menschen, der ebenfalls Bedürfnisse und Gefühle hat. Das finde ich absolut krank und es ist wirklich verwunderlich, dass Arina das so lange mit sich machen lässt… bis zu diesem einen Moment. Denn ab da verlangt sie Respekt für sich.
Die Geschichte von Arina und Maxim ist geprägt von Verlust und Intrigen, aber auch Grausamkeiten, die wenig Loyalität in anderen Charakteren wecken. Es wird ein weites Spektrum an Handlungslinien eröffnet und nur eine wird einigermaßen zu Ende gebracht. Allerdings nur halbwegs zufriedenstellend. Die Situation mit Stephan hätte meiner Ansicht nach wesentlich mehr Aufmerksamkeit verlangt und Beobachtung seitens Maxim. Aber was passiert da? Nichts. Es wird nicht einmal aufgeklärt, was genau Stephan und wie lange er es schon geplant hat. Oder auch wen er auf seine Seite gezogen hat… Da bleibt so einiges im Dunkeln. Es gibt dann noch die Andeutung mit Erik. Damit hat sich Maxim selbst keinen Gefallen getan und ich dachte, dass hier eher etwas in die Richtung gegangen wird. Aber das wird sich dann wohl eher bis zu Alexeis Geschichte aufgespart… oder auch nicht.
Die Damen der Petrov-Familie, nämlich die Schwestern von Maxim und Alexei, sind sehr unterschiedlich. Elena gilt als Eisprinzessin und Kira als das warmherzige, verletzliche Küken. Deren Mutter ist ein Miststück, die keinen Respekt vor anderen hat, es aber für sich selbst verlangt. Aber Elena und Kira sind anders als ihre Mutter. Selbst hinter Elenas kalter Fassade verbirgt sich eine verletzliche junge Frau, die nie die Möglichkeit hatte, sich selbst zu entfalten. Vielleicht bekommt sie in einem der nächsten Bände die Gelegenheit dazu? Ich würde es ihr wünschen. Und ich könnte mir schon gut vorstellen, welchen Mann ich ihr hierzu an die Seite wünsche. 😉
Trotz kleiner Mankos konnte ich meine Finger nicht von Arinas und Maxims Geschichte lassen. Die Geschichte habe ich in einem Rutsch verschlungen. Ich habe sie genossen und freue mich bereits auf die Fortsetzung der Reihe. Ich bin gespannt, welches Familienmitglied dann sein Glück findet.
Hinweis: Das Buch habe ich als digitales Rezensionsexemplar via Booksprout im Austausch für eine ehrliche Rezension erhalten.
So ist es auch in „Merciless Union“, der Geschichte von Maxim und Arina. Beide sind so unterschiedlich, dass man kaum glauben kann, dass sie jemals eine Grundlage für eine gut funktionierende Ehe finden könnten.
Doch Arina ist die notwendige Wärme für Maxims kaltes und gnadenloses Herz. Sie zeigt ihm einen anderen Weg und erwärmt ihn für simplere Sachen. Allerdings nicht ganz, ohne eine paar Kämpfe innerhalb ihrer Beziehung zueinander auszutragen. Als Protagonistin ist Arina großartig. Sie ist loyal, eine talentierte Künstlerin und kennt ihren Platz innerhalb der Mafia-Strukturen.
Maxim ist der neue Anführer der Petrov-Familie nach dem Tod seines Vaters. Er selbst wirkt eher kalt, gefühllos und gnadenlos. In seiner Führungsposition allerdings überfordert, wenig unterstützt und nicht respektiert. Seine Frustration lässt er an Arina aus, was ich absolut unangemessen finde. Er zeigt damit nur, dass er keine Führungsperson ist. Ihr gegenüber ist er kalt und grausam, während er seinen Männern gegenüber eher wie ein Weichei wirkt. Nicht der harte Mafia-Mann, den ich erwartet habe. Er macht sich viel mehr Gedanken um sein Ansehen innerhalb der Familie als gesund für ihn ist. Er sollte mehr damit beschäftigt sein, sich den Respekt und die Loyalität seiner Untergegebenen zu erarbeiten. Doch davon findet sich im gesamten Buch so ziemlich gar nichts. Er lässt seinen besten Freund für sich arbeiten. Aber er selbst? Rührt nicht einen Finger für seine Position.
Deswegen kann und will ich ihn gar nicht akzeptieren. Ich kann sogar verstehen, warum andere ihn nicht respektieren und gegen ihn rebellieren. Das kann ich aber auch aus einem weiteren Grund nicht: Arina. Er behandelt sie wie einen warmen Körper, der einfach nur dazu da ist, sein sexuelles Verlangen zu stillen. Er behandelt sie nicht einmal wie einen Menschen, der ebenfalls Bedürfnisse und Gefühle hat. Das finde ich absolut krank und es ist wirklich verwunderlich, dass Arina das so lange mit sich machen lässt… bis zu diesem einen Moment. Denn ab da verlangt sie Respekt für sich.
Die Geschichte von Arina und Maxim ist geprägt von Verlust und Intrigen, aber auch Grausamkeiten, die wenig Loyalität in anderen Charakteren wecken. Es wird ein weites Spektrum an Handlungslinien eröffnet und nur eine wird einigermaßen zu Ende gebracht. Allerdings nur halbwegs zufriedenstellend. Die Situation mit Stephan hätte meiner Ansicht nach wesentlich mehr Aufmerksamkeit verlangt und Beobachtung seitens Maxim. Aber was passiert da? Nichts. Es wird nicht einmal aufgeklärt, was genau Stephan und wie lange er es schon geplant hat. Oder auch wen er auf seine Seite gezogen hat… Da bleibt so einiges im Dunkeln. Es gibt dann noch die Andeutung mit Erik. Damit hat sich Maxim selbst keinen Gefallen getan und ich dachte, dass hier eher etwas in die Richtung gegangen wird. Aber das wird sich dann wohl eher bis zu Alexeis Geschichte aufgespart… oder auch nicht.
Die Damen der Petrov-Familie, nämlich die Schwestern von Maxim und Alexei, sind sehr unterschiedlich. Elena gilt als Eisprinzessin und Kira als das warmherzige, verletzliche Küken. Deren Mutter ist ein Miststück, die keinen Respekt vor anderen hat, es aber für sich selbst verlangt. Aber Elena und Kira sind anders als ihre Mutter. Selbst hinter Elenas kalter Fassade verbirgt sich eine verletzliche junge Frau, die nie die Möglichkeit hatte, sich selbst zu entfalten. Vielleicht bekommt sie in einem der nächsten Bände die Gelegenheit dazu? Ich würde es ihr wünschen. Und ich könnte mir schon gut vorstellen, welchen Mann ich ihr hierzu an die Seite wünsche. 😉
Trotz kleiner Mankos konnte ich meine Finger nicht von Arinas und Maxims Geschichte lassen. Die Geschichte habe ich in einem Rutsch verschlungen. Ich habe sie genossen und freue mich bereits auf die Fortsetzung der Reihe. Ich bin gespannt, welches Familienmitglied dann sein Glück findet.
Hinweis: Das Buch habe ich als digitales Rezensionsexemplar via Booksprout im Austausch für eine ehrliche Rezension erhalten.
September 6, 2022
This is the first book in The Petrov Mafia series it is one that grabs you from the start and won’t let you go until the last page has been turned. Buckle up this is a wild ride, dangerous men, alpha personified, possessive, oh, so gorgeous, brooding all the makings of a deliciously story that can be read in an hour or so 😊. There will be suspense, betrayal, arranged marriage, death, darkness, secrets reveled, violence, hope, forgiveness, and maybe love (to be expected in the mafia world). By the time you’ve figured out who is who and what is what, you’re already hooked, and you may as well give up the fight and prepare yourself for an all-nighter!
Can’t say I didn’t warn you.
Maxim sexy as all get out head of the Bratva which he has taken over after the death of his father knowing some aren’t too happy with the takeover so doing what his father taught him always think ahead, plan ahead, have plans in case first set fall through so watching his own back, strategically planning ensuring he has people around him he can trust and keeping his position so taking a wife is one of the first steps for him. Arina is shy, intelligent, the daughter of Maxim father’s second in command, her father comes with his on army so to speak and she is an amazing painter extraordinarily good. While she is attending the funeral of her father’s employer she notice his son but she isn’t or doesn’t want to be a part of the world her father lives in but also realizes she has never had a choice because the father decides so when he shows up on her father’s doorstep asking for her hand of course her father couldn’t /wouldn’t say no so against all odds she hopes they can learn to love each other not just be a moving piece on a chess board played by men but she is marrying a man who see love as a weakness something his enemies can exploit. So, he is determined to use her nothing more or less or so he thought what he didn’t count on was fate stepping in and taking all control so the more he tried to harden his heart towards her the more he cared fate proving the heart wants what the heart wants nothing you can do to stop it and the more you fight the stronger the magnetic pull between them grows. But Arina isn’t as soft as everyone seems to think she does grown thicker skin thanks to his coldness, taking the one thing she loves away her painting, she gets feed up with the disrespect and decides to stand up for herself but will he break her like most try to do, will she stand in her resolve, what doesn’t her father have to say about any of it considering he is a loving father never once mistreated her which I loved about this because often times the father’s are horrible, will Maxim learn that love can be a strength not a weakness, will he learn it in time or after his wife’s heart has grown cold, and can they find something more than just their arranged marriage?.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Can’t say I didn’t warn you.
Maxim sexy as all get out head of the Bratva which he has taken over after the death of his father knowing some aren’t too happy with the takeover so doing what his father taught him always think ahead, plan ahead, have plans in case first set fall through so watching his own back, strategically planning ensuring he has people around him he can trust and keeping his position so taking a wife is one of the first steps for him. Arina is shy, intelligent, the daughter of Maxim father’s second in command, her father comes with his on army so to speak and she is an amazing painter extraordinarily good. While she is attending the funeral of her father’s employer she notice his son but she isn’t or doesn’t want to be a part of the world her father lives in but also realizes she has never had a choice because the father decides so when he shows up on her father’s doorstep asking for her hand of course her father couldn’t /wouldn’t say no so against all odds she hopes they can learn to love each other not just be a moving piece on a chess board played by men but she is marrying a man who see love as a weakness something his enemies can exploit. So, he is determined to use her nothing more or less or so he thought what he didn’t count on was fate stepping in and taking all control so the more he tried to harden his heart towards her the more he cared fate proving the heart wants what the heart wants nothing you can do to stop it and the more you fight the stronger the magnetic pull between them grows. But Arina isn’t as soft as everyone seems to think she does grown thicker skin thanks to his coldness, taking the one thing she loves away her painting, she gets feed up with the disrespect and decides to stand up for herself but will he break her like most try to do, will she stand in her resolve, what doesn’t her father have to say about any of it considering he is a loving father never once mistreated her which I loved about this because often times the father’s are horrible, will Maxim learn that love can be a strength not a weakness, will he learn it in time or after his wife’s heart has grown cold, and can they find something more than just their arranged marriage?.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 28, 2022
Good story premise but poorly executed and at times seemed juvenile.
This is the first book in Ivy Davis's Arranged Marriage (Petrov Family series). While all the books take place in the same world, each is a standalone with an HEA, no cliffhanger.
This book needs some serious editing. There are missing words, wrong words used, words out of place and spelling errors.
About the story: The eldest Petrov son becomes the new Bratva leader upon the death of his cold, abusive father, but there are those who are opposed or want the leadership for themself. The son decides he must take a wife, choosing the daughter of his father's best friend, who is well respected among the men, knowing this connection will help him win over some of those who oppose him and help solidify his position. Raised by loving parents, the h has always known hers would be an arrainged mariage. She doesn't expect love, but hopes for respect and affection at least. However, the H was raised to never show emotion or get close to anyone, not even family, it is a weakness that could be used against him.
You'd think this would make a great premise for not only a strangers to lovers romance, but a back-story of danger and excitement. Unfortunately, while the story premise itself was a good one, sadly, it lacked in execution. First, the dialogue sometimes seemed juvenile, as if the characters were in high school, which they were not. Additionally, they sometimes seemed to act out of character for Bratva guys. As a result, the bratva aspects of this story lacked the intensity, the viciousness and ruthlessness you'd expect between Bratva men fighting for control. Add in a younger brother who was always fu¢k|ng up (which seemed to serve NO purpose to this tale ...comic relief maybe?), and you have a less than satisfying story.
This author seemed to lacked sufficient knowledge of her subject matter (the Bratva), to pull off the back story. Instead the characters often came across as high schoolers fighting to be top dog and ruler of the school as opposed to ruthless men fighting for control of a criminal organization.
Didn't hate it, but didn't love it either. For the poor execution, 3 star for this one, and that's being generous because of all the word/typo errors.
This is the first book in Ivy Davis's Arranged Marriage (Petrov Family series). While all the books take place in the same world, each is a standalone with an HEA, no cliffhanger.
This book needs some serious editing. There are missing words, wrong words used, words out of place and spelling errors.
About the story: The eldest Petrov son becomes the new Bratva leader upon the death of his cold, abusive father, but there are those who are opposed or want the leadership for themself. The son decides he must take a wife, choosing the daughter of his father's best friend, who is well respected among the men, knowing this connection will help him win over some of those who oppose him and help solidify his position. Raised by loving parents, the h has always known hers would be an arrainged mariage. She doesn't expect love, but hopes for respect and affection at least. However, the H was raised to never show emotion or get close to anyone, not even family, it is a weakness that could be used against him.
You'd think this would make a great premise for not only a strangers to lovers romance, but a back-story of danger and excitement. Unfortunately, while the story premise itself was a good one, sadly, it lacked in execution. First, the dialogue sometimes seemed juvenile, as if the characters were in high school, which they were not. Additionally, they sometimes seemed to act out of character for Bratva guys. As a result, the bratva aspects of this story lacked the intensity, the viciousness and ruthlessness you'd expect between Bratva men fighting for control. Add in a younger brother who was always fu¢k|ng up (which seemed to serve NO purpose to this tale ...comic relief maybe?), and you have a less than satisfying story.
This author seemed to lacked sufficient knowledge of her subject matter (the Bratva), to pull off the back story. Instead the characters often came across as high schoolers fighting to be top dog and ruler of the school as opposed to ruthless men fighting for control of a criminal organization.
Didn't hate it, but didn't love it either. For the poor execution, 3 star for this one, and that's being generous because of all the word/typo errors.
August 29, 2022
Without a doubt Ivy Davis is both a prolific and gifted romance author who has figured out that special formula for writing a successful Mafia romance/thriller with tons of heat and edge of your seat excitement and her latest trope, Merciless Union is one of her best. The story centers on Maxim Petrov, the newly crowned head of the Bratva who inherited his father’s throne upon his death. Maxim is just waiting for a challenge to his reign by a bullet through his back, so as he is strategically planning how to hold on to his position, he sees a woman who he decides to make his wife because she will look perfect beside him, and her father brings a lot of men who will transfer their loyalty to him if she becomes his wife. Arina Smirnoff, daughter of George Smirnoff who was Maxim’s father’s second in command, is breathtakingly beautiful, shy, and is an extraordinarily talented painter. At Maxim’s father’s funeral, she notices Maxim staring at her, and immediately turned away, the blood rushing to her face. Maxim knows that an alliance between himself and Arina will garner men who were loyal to his own father onto his side, so he appears at George’s house to ask for her hand which is given. He then lets her know why he is there and she agrees to marry him, hoping they will fall in love as her own parents did even though they had an arranged marriage. Maxim finds love to be a weakness that he cannot afford to let his enemies know of because they will use it against him to capture his throne from him so he knows he cannot give into the attraction he feels for Arina. Instead, Maxim decides he will use her body but will harden his heart to her, and the battle begins between Irina and Maxim, their hearts and their bodies at war with one another, all the while traitors are behind every corner attempting to take Maxim from his rightful place as head of the Bratva! I will not give away any more of the plot. Read it for yourself to truly appreciate just how well-crafted and exciting this novel is.
September 7, 2022
This is the 1st book in Ivy Davis’s new Petrov Mafia Series and it’s Maxim and Arina’s story. He takes the throne of the Bratva after the death of his father. Not everyone is content with the takeover so he has some house cleaning to do. His father taught him to always think and plan ahead, so he decides a strategic marriage would help ensure some important alliances. Enter Arina. She’s a shy, young daughter of Maxim father’s second in command, taking care of her dying mother. She’s an amazing painter, she hopes against all odds she’ll marry for love, not only for strategic alliances of her father. Maxim is however determined not to have any feelings for her as he perceives that’s how she becomes his weakness. Arina turns out not to be as soft as everyone seems to think she is and the girl shows a backbone and starts dealing with the disrespect received from her new husband. And that’s where the fun really starts. The book is written very well, it grabs you from the start until the very end. There is suspense, betrayal, death, violence and forgiveness. There is an arranged marriage and at the end there is love. The only remark I have is that after reading most of Ivy’s books I miss something new, unexpected as I feel all her mafia books follow the same pattern. I’ve read this type of romance quite a lot and some authors still manage to completely surprise me with a twist in their works. So 4 stars and a warm recommendation for reading. After all I said it’s still a bloody good book!
October 1, 2024
In the book Merciless Union, Maxim Petrov has just lost his father the head of the Bratva and he is now the new leader. At his father’s funeral he meets Ariana the daughter of a trusted man in his organization. Because he knows that there may be men who would try to challenge his position as the head of the Bratva he needs to get married fast to make himself appear stable and secure.
He offers to marry Ariana to because her father will help sway the other men that Maxim is the right leader. Ariana has no qualms about marrying Maxim, she knows it’s an arranged marriage so she complies. Maxim and his siblings were raised by a really tough father who abused them and a cold mother. Maxim is a very cold man to Ariana especially when they are intimate. He treats her very impersonally and coldly. In the midst of Ariana trying to get her husband and his distant family to warm up to her, Maxim is fighting the men trying to challenge his position in the Bratva.
I enjoyed the book. The romance between these two main characters was interesting. I like when the heroine is able to bring about a change in the hero for good and when he realizes that his life is better with her in it. This book is probably the first in a series of books about the Petrov siblings since the other two sisters and brother were quite interesting, colorful characters.
He offers to marry Ariana to because her father will help sway the other men that Maxim is the right leader. Ariana has no qualms about marrying Maxim, she knows it’s an arranged marriage so she complies. Maxim and his siblings were raised by a really tough father who abused them and a cold mother. Maxim is a very cold man to Ariana especially when they are intimate. He treats her very impersonally and coldly. In the midst of Ariana trying to get her husband and his distant family to warm up to her, Maxim is fighting the men trying to challenge his position in the Bratva.
I enjoyed the book. The romance between these two main characters was interesting. I like when the heroine is able to bring about a change in the hero for good and when he realizes that his life is better with her in it. This book is probably the first in a series of books about the Petrov siblings since the other two sisters and brother were quite interesting, colorful characters.
September 6, 2022
This is the start to the The Petrov Mafia Series. Maxim takes over the head of the Bratva once his father passes and knows he needs to marry to ensure he’s strong on all fronts. Maxim decides he wants to marry Arina,the daughter of his fathers 2nd in command. They meet and Arina knows what’s expected of her but is shocked when she’s told she can never paint again. They marry in a week and Maxim works to gather support of all their men to ensure there are not any problems of a take over of his power. Arina was raised in a happy home with love and she’s close with her father, Maxim was raised with 3 younger siblings and had a father who was mean and very rough on him making him closed off to love. Maxim believes he owns Arina and her body and does not need to worry about anything else concerning her. I love how Arina stands up for herself and shows Maxim how good their marriage can be and he ends up opening his heart to her. When those out to cause trouble they use Arina against him knowing she’s a weakness. Arina shows her strength and does what is necessary and Maxim becomes the man and leader his meant to be. I look forward to discovering the next story in this series! I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 14, 2022
The drama, intensity, suspense, and eventual possessiveness will pull you into another great story from Ivy Davis. This is the story of Maxim and Arina (daughter of Maxim’s father second in command). Maxim was raised to not show any type of weakness – even when it comes to family. All Arina has known is the love and devotion her parents have and does not see it as a weakness. She is innocent, naïve, yet also feisty and sassy! When an arranged marriage is set up between the two, Arina is hoping for a love story while Maxim is just looking for a “trophy”.
Get ready for a roller coaster ride as Maxim comes to realize that maybe having a weakness can also be your strength. Arina proves to be worthy – she does not take any crap from Maxim’s family who believe that she is beneath them. She stands up for what she believes in and will only take so much of Maxim’s withdrawal. Will Arina be able to help Maxim see what’s right in front of him, or will he continue to believe she is a weakness? Great start to this series and I cannot wait to see what happens in the next book of this series! I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Get ready for a roller coaster ride as Maxim comes to realize that maybe having a weakness can also be your strength. Arina proves to be worthy – she does not take any crap from Maxim’s family who believe that she is beneath them. She stands up for what she believes in and will only take so much of Maxim’s withdrawal. Will Arina be able to help Maxim see what’s right in front of him, or will he continue to believe she is a weakness? Great start to this series and I cannot wait to see what happens in the next book of this series! I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 20, 2023
Dark arrange marriage mafia romance 🥰
This book is filled with Bratva violence, danger, backstabbing, arranged marriage, and Bratva leader who is willing to open his heart to the woman who sees more of him than he’s ever allowed anyone too before!
Maxim has taken over as the leader of the Bratva and he has to ensure his men stay faithful to him. He has his best friend and second Nik who will do anything for him but he needs a wife. He has to ensure his Bratva sees his strengths and determination to be their leader without discord. When he lays eyes on Arina she is beautiful and he must take her and make her his wife.
However, he doesn’t know how to be a husband and Arina will not put up with his actions when she is the one being hurt and disrespected. This is a wild ride to see their love transform and they are fighting those who don’t want Maxim as their leader. Weakness is dangerous in this world but them being together makes everything possible. You will thoroughly enjoy this book 1 in this series. I’m excited to see where the Petrov Mafia series takes us next. Happy Reading!!
This book is filled with Bratva violence, danger, backstabbing, arranged marriage, and Bratva leader who is willing to open his heart to the woman who sees more of him than he’s ever allowed anyone too before!
Maxim has taken over as the leader of the Bratva and he has to ensure his men stay faithful to him. He has his best friend and second Nik who will do anything for him but he needs a wife. He has to ensure his Bratva sees his strengths and determination to be their leader without discord. When he lays eyes on Arina she is beautiful and he must take her and make her his wife.
However, he doesn’t know how to be a husband and Arina will not put up with his actions when she is the one being hurt and disrespected. This is a wild ride to see their love transform and they are fighting those who don’t want Maxim as their leader. Weakness is dangerous in this world but them being together makes everything possible. You will thoroughly enjoy this book 1 in this series. I’m excited to see where the Petrov Mafia series takes us next. Happy Reading!!
March 26, 2023
Honestly?
I must say that this is absolutely one of the most unfortunate reads I have encountered. And that isn't even including the typos.
I am very much one of those people who have to finish a book. I did not find the need to finish this one.
The characters do not resemble a mafia family. Living in a penthouse with 1 guard. The head of the mafia not going after someone who came in his home threatening his wife and telling him he will take over his position as head of the mafia. Deciding he didn't want to upset his men and seem weak.. Going ice skating. Agreeing to everything his wife says. YET still not wanting to seem weak.
The youngest sister supposed to be 15, but her character seems like she's 8 to 10. The older sister 25 actually acts around 15. The brother constantly getting drunk and embarrassing the family.
This story just seems totally wrong. I cannot connect the characters to the story background. Even the best friend of the former "boss" being so soft, like a Mr. Magoo.
I hate not finishing a story, but this is ridiculous.
I dare not even read any more in this series.
I must say that this is absolutely one of the most unfortunate reads I have encountered. And that isn't even including the typos.
I am very much one of those people who have to finish a book. I did not find the need to finish this one.
The characters do not resemble a mafia family. Living in a penthouse with 1 guard. The head of the mafia not going after someone who came in his home threatening his wife and telling him he will take over his position as head of the mafia. Deciding he didn't want to upset his men and seem weak.. Going ice skating. Agreeing to everything his wife says. YET still not wanting to seem weak.
The youngest sister supposed to be 15, but her character seems like she's 8 to 10. The older sister 25 actually acts around 15. The brother constantly getting drunk and embarrassing the family.
This story just seems totally wrong. I cannot connect the characters to the story background. Even the best friend of the former "boss" being so soft, like a Mr. Magoo.
I hate not finishing a story, but this is ridiculous.
I dare not even read any more in this series.
October 31, 2022
Well it could have been good, but it was tragically childish. First, he's like 29-years-old and the leader of the Bratva but he acts like he's 21. Someone shows up in his home, knocks his guard out, and holds his wife at gunpoint and he just lets him go, then doesn't bother even trying to hunt him down. Plus, the guard is like well I didn't know if you'd want me to shoot him. DUH - what kind of mafia guy are you? Someone breaks into your bosses house and you don't kill them? What sense does that make? Then the story with Arina and Max is just juvenile. She should have stood up to her MIL and SIL and showed that she's the wife of the Bratva leader. Instead she lets them treat her like crap. Girl - not in my house! Plus, he marries Arina because of her dad's "power" but the man is weak! Always crying and groveling and hugging. He's not a powerful mob leader. Plus, Max lets his stupid brother get away with everything instead of just beating his ass. It started out good but just kept going down hill.
August 30, 2022
Maxim Petrov has just taking his fathers his seat as head of the Bratva because his father has died . His father was a cruel man and that see on all his kids but the smallest one. Maxim first order of business is to take a wife . He knows the perfect one to take that will also bring men to his side of the table. So he goes George Smirnoff to as his daughter to marry him.
Ariina Smirnoff has been raised by a loving father. She loves to painting and she is very pretty . When Maxim get to her she is painting. They are married within a week. Arina find him very closed off and cold . Maxim has decided that he would use her body and nothing else. Maxim tells her she can’t paint , just so cold ..She tells her dad that he doesn’t respect me. She told until he change he would not touch her. Maxim is fighting a battle to hold his position and know he has his wife to worry about . Thing have to change . Will they change
Ariina Smirnoff has been raised by a loving father. She loves to painting and she is very pretty . When Maxim get to her she is painting. They are married within a week. Arina find him very closed off and cold . Maxim has decided that he would use her body and nothing else. Maxim tells her she can’t paint , just so cold ..She tells her dad that he doesn’t respect me. She told until he change he would not touch her. Maxim is fighting a battle to hold his position and know he has his wife to worry about . Thing have to change . Will they change
September 5, 2022
Maxim has to take over from his father and needs to ensure that his father's men will follow him and he thinks that marrying the daughter of one of his fathers trusted men will do the trick. Unfortunately, Arina, the daughter in question isn't as keen. She wants to paint and keep herself to herself not be a trophy for some mafia boss.
Maxim is cold and takes his responsibilities very seriously, having to look after his mother, brother and sisters, as well as the Petrov empire, is hard; no time for emotional attachments.
Will Maxim find his softer side, will Arina toughen up?
Lots of brooding tension, misunderstandings, angst and heat combine to make this an enjoyable read.
I'm looking forward to the next book in the series, I hope it's Elena and Nik!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Maxim is cold and takes his responsibilities very seriously, having to look after his mother, brother and sisters, as well as the Petrov empire, is hard; no time for emotional attachments.
Will Maxim find his softer side, will Arina toughen up?
Lots of brooding tension, misunderstandings, angst and heat combine to make this an enjoyable read.
I'm looking forward to the next book in the series, I hope it's Elena and Nik!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 10, 2022
This is the 1st in a new mafia romance, and this is Maxim and Arina’s story. Maxim is cold, broody, ruthless, feared, and cruel, possessive, and he is the new head of the Bratva after his fathers’ death. Maxim knows he needs to get married, and he has set his sights on Arina, the shy and innocent daughter of his 2nd in command. Arina is a painter, who is taking care of her ailing mother, and she is not as soft as she appears, she has a backbone, and she intends to take on her new husband and his disdain for her. This is a well written story which has an engaging and in-depth plot, with tension, emotions, intrigue, betrayal, suspense, danger, action, arranged marriage, violence, twists, and love, which leads to a riveting and addictive page turner.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 29, 2024
An arranged marriage…3 Stars!
Maxim took over his father’s position as head of the Russian Bratva crime syndicate right after his father’s death but there are a few men who want to be the boss. To solidify his strength as the boss, he arranged a marriage of convenience to Arina, the daughter of one of the Bratva loyalist who’s on his side. Stepan, has convinced quite a few of his father’s men that he is the better leader and he had become Maxim’s enemy. Not only does he want to be the boss, he also wants Arina for himself and everything else he owns. He wants to kill Maxim. Maxim did not want to get close to his wife but Arina is unhappy about being just a trophy wife. She wants him to love her but how can she convince a ruthless, unfeeling and cold hearted man to do that? I wouldn’t say I love this story but I don’t hate it either. Meh.
Maxim took over his father’s position as head of the Russian Bratva crime syndicate right after his father’s death but there are a few men who want to be the boss. To solidify his strength as the boss, he arranged a marriage of convenience to Arina, the daughter of one of the Bratva loyalist who’s on his side. Stepan, has convinced quite a few of his father’s men that he is the better leader and he had become Maxim’s enemy. Not only does he want to be the boss, he also wants Arina for himself and everything else he owns. He wants to kill Maxim. Maxim did not want to get close to his wife but Arina is unhappy about being just a trophy wife. She wants him to love her but how can she convince a ruthless, unfeeling and cold hearted man to do that? I wouldn’t say I love this story but I don’t hate it either. Meh.
September 5, 2022
Maxim is next in line after his father's death and he knows a power struggle could ensue if he doesnt tamper it down and marriage is a way to strengthen his claim. Aria is the daughter of George who was close with the late Bratva leader and holds sway with the men, a perfect choice for a bride. A marriage without love is what Arina expects she knew not to expect more than becoming a pawn, but as trouble flares, Maxim will do anything to keep her safe. Could love ever be possible? Well written, angst steamy emotional drama and action filled, arraigned mafia marriage, romance the story has you hooked, a great start to a new series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 7, 2022
"You're my weakness, Arina"
I absolutely loved this book. If you love mafia romance then this book is one to read. Arina & Maxim journey starts out coldly as an arranged marriage & what follows is an emotional rollercoaster ride for them both with plot twists. With outside forces trying to take him out who can Maxim really trust?
Can Arina break through the emotional wall Maxim has erected?
Is a HEA in their future or will the outside threats destroy any chance they had?
This story takes you on an emotional ride but it is so worth reading it.
I look forward to the next story by the author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I absolutely loved this book. If you love mafia romance then this book is one to read. Arina & Maxim journey starts out coldly as an arranged marriage & what follows is an emotional rollercoaster ride for them both with plot twists. With outside forces trying to take him out who can Maxim really trust?
Can Arina break through the emotional wall Maxim has erected?
Is a HEA in their future or will the outside threats destroy any chance they had?
This story takes you on an emotional ride but it is so worth reading it.
I look forward to the next story by the author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 14, 2023
Great story
I loved how Max makes up for his father being such a brutal bastard to his 2 sons and 2 daughters. His first sister has reached her 25th year and had no life, and no chance for a husband. His baby sister was shielded by him, so she didn't know how cold, and heartless her father really was. His younger brother was also abused by their father, but somehow still felt grief at his death. When Max takes Aria as his wife, he is following in the Bratva tradition of having a attractive, obedient wife, who was no more than a means of working off sexual tension. Face down over the end of the bed, and no kissing. Boy does he get his eyes opened.
I loved how Max makes up for his father being such a brutal bastard to his 2 sons and 2 daughters. His first sister has reached her 25th year and had no life, and no chance for a husband. His baby sister was shielded by him, so she didn't know how cold, and heartless her father really was. His younger brother was also abused by their father, but somehow still felt grief at his death. When Max takes Aria as his wife, he is following in the Bratva tradition of having a attractive, obedient wife, who was no more than a means of working off sexual tension. Face down over the end of the bed, and no kissing. Boy does he get his eyes opened.
March 18, 2024
Ivy Davis has hooked me….lol! I love her Mafia series, and Maxim and Arina are no different. Maxim was really a cold fish to her but he didn’t know any better; his father beat him until he was big and strong enough to defend his self against him, and his mother….wow….was a very Nasty woman who obviously didn’t show him the Love he needed and definitely didn’t teach him how to treat a woman other than an obedient servant and sex slave…. I guess that’s all she was to her husband, so she couldn’t teach him anything else. But I’m glad that Arina was able to bring out the real kind Man that Maxim was destined to be, and they were able to have a Loving and Happy Relationship!
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September 9, 2022
This is the first book in Ivy's new Petrov Mafia series and it is a fantastic beginning. Maxim is the new head of the family following his father's death. He feels he needs to get married to solidify his power, so he sets his sights on Arina. He tells her how the marriage is going to be from the beginning, not wanting her to have any illusions of love or that they will grow to love. Of course, since this is a romance, you know that's not what is going to happen. As it turns out Maxim is also possessive and protective of Arina, which can always lead to more!
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