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The Syndicates #8
Dimitri
Ivanna
Being the Petrov Bratva Princess isn’t all it’s cracked up to be.
Instead of freedom, I’m locked in a gilded cage with him as a warden.
Dimitri is not only my personal guard, but he happens to be my brother’s best friend and my unrequited childhood crush.
To make matters worse, he imposes all these stifling rules on me.
I’ve had enough.
When I make a drastic decision to finally seek my freedom, it sends him in a tailspin.
Will I survive the carnage in its wake?
Dimitri
When my best friend became Pakhan of the Petrov Bratva, he made me his second in command and entrusted me with the most important task.
Protect his sister at all costs.
Ivanna isn’t the little girl she once was though.
She’s turned into an obsession that I’ve never allowed myself to indulge in.
Until she’s decided she’s had enough.
She wants to be married off to some stranger, but I won’t allow it.
The only way I’ll let her go is in death.
**Some subjects in this book may be triggering. For more information please check our website.
Being the Petrov Bratva Princess isn’t all it’s cracked up to be.
Instead of freedom, I’m locked in a gilded cage with him as a warden.
Dimitri is not only my personal guard, but he happens to be my brother’s best friend and my unrequited childhood crush.
To make matters worse, he imposes all these stifling rules on me.
I’ve had enough.
When I make a drastic decision to finally seek my freedom, it sends him in a tailspin.
Will I survive the carnage in its wake?
Dimitri
When my best friend became Pakhan of the Petrov Bratva, he made me his second in command and entrusted me with the most important task.
Protect his sister at all costs.
Ivanna isn’t the little girl she once was though.
She’s turned into an obsession that I’ve never allowed myself to indulge in.
Until she’s decided she’s had enough.
She wants to be married off to some stranger, but I won’t allow it.
The only way I’ll let her go is in death.
**Some subjects in this book may be triggering. For more information please check our website.
336 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 25, 2023
76 people are currently reading
349 people want to read
About the author
Cala Riley
60 books755 followersCala Riley, better known as Cala and Riley, are a pair of friends with a deep seated love of books and writing. Both Cala and Riley are happily married and each have children, Cala with the four-legged kind while Riley has a mixture of both two-legged and four. While they live apart, that does not affect their connection. They are the true definition of family. What started as an idea that quickly turned into a full-length book and a bond that will never end.
Check out our linktree for more information:
https://linktr.ee/authorcalariley
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https://linktr.ee/authorcalariley
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 117 reviews
May 25, 2023
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Trope: bodyguard, siblings best friend
Angst: 😱😱😱.5
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥
Dimitri has always watched over his Pahkan's sister, Ivanna, but when she declares it's time to start looking for a man to escape her gilded cage they have her in, Dimitri wants her to pick him. Ivanna has been lusting after Dimitri her whole life and is tired of waiting for something that will never be. Just when she finally decides to move on, Dimitri expects her to fall in his lap. But Ivy knows her worth and isn't going to let it be that easy for him.
Super cute read in what’s been a fabulous series! Fast paced read that definitely held my attention with tons of action and just a bit of suspense. I did struggle with Ivy a bit, but I loved Dimitri. Super protective and possessive, but flexible enough to give her what she needed from him. Dimitri is book 8 in the Syndicate's series by Cala Riley and can be read as a standalone, but best enjoyed when read in series order. Dimitri is not my favorite book in the series, but is still a solid read that is super enjoyable as part of the overall series.
⛔️ My bookshelves can sometimes be spoilers
Trope: bodyguard, siblings best friend
Angst: 😱😱😱.5
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥
Dimitri has always watched over his Pahkan's sister, Ivanna, but when she declares it's time to start looking for a man to escape her gilded cage they have her in, Dimitri wants her to pick him. Ivanna has been lusting after Dimitri her whole life and is tired of waiting for something that will never be. Just when she finally decides to move on, Dimitri expects her to fall in his lap. But Ivy knows her worth and isn't going to let it be that easy for him.
Super cute read in what’s been a fabulous series! Fast paced read that definitely held my attention with tons of action and just a bit of suspense. I did struggle with Ivy a bit, but I loved Dimitri. Super protective and possessive, but flexible enough to give her what she needed from him. Dimitri is book 8 in the Syndicate's series by Cala Riley and can be read as a standalone, but best enjoyed when read in series order. Dimitri is not my favorite book in the series, but is still a solid read that is super enjoyable as part of the overall series.
⛔️ My bookshelves can sometimes be spoilers
May 18, 2023
This series, ya'll! Keeps getting better and better. These two fantastic authors make it so easy for us to fall for each and every new hero they write into existence. Dimitri was no different.
This dude was protective. He was broody. Once sexy alpha that I wanted to have pin me to the front door with a new necklace!! Sheesh! He met his match with his best friend's sister, Ivanna. She was tired of her gilded cage and was willing to stop at nothing to gain her independence. Even doing something she swore she'd never do. Just to be able to breathe without the constant shadow Dimitri and his men were to her. Little did she know... lol.
These two were on fire with their chemistry. The push and pull was just right. One of my favorite couple of the series! If you love hot mafia guys and ladies that bring them to their knees - this series is for you!!
This dude was protective. He was broody. Once sexy alpha that I wanted to have pin me to the front door with a new necklace!! Sheesh! He met his match with his best friend's sister, Ivanna. She was tired of her gilded cage and was willing to stop at nothing to gain her independence. Even doing something she swore she'd never do. Just to be able to breathe without the constant shadow Dimitri and his men were to her. Little did she know... lol.
These two were on fire with their chemistry. The push and pull was just right. One of my favorite couple of the series! If you love hot mafia guys and ladies that bring them to their knees - this series is for you!!
Read
May 28, 2023DNF
I was almost positive I was going to love this.
Unfortunately the writing style didn’t work for me.
Also, Ivanna (h) was a tad immature and Dimitri (H) wasn’t alpha enough. *sigh* perhaps this changes along the story but I didn’t enjoy what I’ve read so far.
I was almost positive I was going to love this.
Unfortunately the writing style didn’t work for me.
Also, Ivanna (h) was a tad immature and Dimitri (H) wasn’t alpha enough. *sigh* perhaps this changes along the story but I didn’t enjoy what I’ve read so far.
May 25, 2023
I’ll never let you go. No matter what you do or how far you run, I'll always be there.
Dimitri is book 8 in the syndicate series by Cala Riley. It can be read as a standalone but for reader enjoyment I would say start at book one and get to know all of the families. This story was fast paced with all the twists and turns keeping you flipping the pages until the very end.
The explosive chemistry that Ivanna and Dimitri had was off the charts and kept me glued to the pages. I loved the push and pull between them and how Dimitri would literally do anything for her. Talk about possessive and I loved every second of it.
If you haven’t met Cala Riley’s mafia men and the woman that bring these powerful men to their knees then what are you doing?!
Read Dimitri if you liked:
🧡Mafia
🧡Brothers best friend
🧡Bodyguard
🧡Forbidden
🧡Touch her and you die vibes
Dimitri is book 8 in the syndicate series by Cala Riley. It can be read as a standalone but for reader enjoyment I would say start at book one and get to know all of the families. This story was fast paced with all the twists and turns keeping you flipping the pages until the very end.
The explosive chemistry that Ivanna and Dimitri had was off the charts and kept me glued to the pages. I loved the push and pull between them and how Dimitri would literally do anything for her. Talk about possessive and I loved every second of it.
If you haven’t met Cala Riley’s mafia men and the woman that bring these powerful men to their knees then what are you doing?!
Read Dimitri if you liked:
🧡Mafia
🧡Brothers best friend
🧡Bodyguard
🧡Forbidden
🧡Touch her and you die vibes
May 1, 2023
Oh boyyyyy sign me up for some protective Dimitri love! I loveddd this protective, hard, sexy, alpha man! Even if I didn’t always agree with what he did I still understood & loved him for it. Ivanna was another story… at first I really liked her fight & independence. But near the end I just thought she was self centred & selfish.. I know I know I’d probably feel the way she did too but all Dimitri ever wanted to do was protect & love her & she drove me crazy! This world discovers exactly how deprived their new enemy is & we dive deep into uncovering all their plans so they can destroy them. I’m really looking forward to the next book in this series because I can’t wait to find out what happens next.
May 25, 2023
Y’all I cannot recommend this book enough. I’m not a huge Mafia person but wow. Dimitri is hot, possessive, protective, and gives major touch her and 💀 vibes. If you’re looking for an age gap, brothers best friend, second in the Russian Bratva, action packed, enemies to lovers (but really he’s totally obsessed with her), mutual pining masterpiece, this is your book.
Read
March 20, 2024Dnf @58%
Honestly the first few chapters were good but the rest was just boring and both the mcs in my opinion were dumb, annoying and indecisive. maybe it gets better at the end but it was not for me so I couldn’t complete
Honestly the first few chapters were good but the rest was just boring and both the mcs in my opinion were dumb, annoying and indecisive. maybe it gets better at the end but it was not for me so I couldn’t complete
April 17, 2024
I was so excited for this book because I loved the chemistry of the characters when we first meet them in a previous book and I also love a bodyguard romance; and with this one we also get older brother’s best friend which is an elite trope for me🤌—-but this book was a big fart noise. This man is TOXIC, and not in a “awww look how much he’s willing to do to be with her” kind of way, but in a GURL RUN FOR THE HILLS kind of way. There’s possessive sexy and then there’s possessive psychotic and this was most definitely in the mentally unstable category. But tbh I can’t blame the dude for being so insecurely unhinged because home girl was so wishy washy and flip floppy.
Even though the FMC was ridiculous and immature with her demands of the MMC at times I still managed to have a good time..until she called him “daddy.” 🤢Dude was only like 28 and wanted her (21) to call him daddy. NO.NO.NO. ICK. It was so random and forced.
My thoughts on the series as a whole:
I do not recommend reading 8 of these books in a row. After reading so many of these books I’m convinced these authors just rewrite the same characters but in different trope scenarios. The girl was a V, like almost all of the girls before her, and the dude had the same growly speech. Let’s also add at least one scene where the dude carries the girl “bridal style.” All of the romancing beats are exactly the same. All of the seggy scenes were reworked ones that we’ve read before. These books are so predictably repetitive that tbh I can’t tell a lot of the characters apart.
Even though the FMC was ridiculous and immature with her demands of the MMC at times I still managed to have a good time..until she called him “daddy.” 🤢Dude was only like 28 and wanted her (21) to call him daddy. NO.NO.NO. ICK. It was so random and forced.
My thoughts on the series as a whole:
I do not recommend reading 8 of these books in a row. After reading so many of these books I’m convinced these authors just rewrite the same characters but in different trope scenarios. The girl was a V, like almost all of the girls before her, and the dude had the same growly speech. Let’s also add at least one scene where the dude carries the girl “bridal style.” All of the romancing beats are exactly the same. All of the seggy scenes were reworked ones that we’ve read before. These books are so predictably repetitive that tbh I can’t tell a lot of the characters apart.
May 29, 2023
3 - 3.5 stars!
Dimitri has always looked out for Ivanna, his Pahkan's sister. What started out as protection detail turned into obsession and love and both Dimitri and Ivanna were a constant push and pull. When Ivanna decides she is done waiting for Dimitri to claim her and wants more freedom, she seeks a marriage of convenience orchestrated by her brother. But Dimitri isn't so willing to let her go.
Dimitri will do everything in his power to make Ivy his and Ivy will make him work for her love and affection even with danger looming on the horizon. This was action packed and cute. However, Ivy was a little bit of a snob and I had a difficult time relating to her and how she saw the entire situation regarding Dimitri. The steam in here was yummy but I would have liked it to be steamier and the light daddy kink felt out of place. It just didn't fit for them and felt thrown in for more of a shock factor. I liked the suspense element in here and look forward to Tristano's book. Overall, not my favorite of the series but still a fun and light read.
Dimitri has always looked out for Ivanna, his Pahkan's sister. What started out as protection detail turned into obsession and love and both Dimitri and Ivanna were a constant push and pull. When Ivanna decides she is done waiting for Dimitri to claim her and wants more freedom, she seeks a marriage of convenience orchestrated by her brother. But Dimitri isn't so willing to let her go.
“If you want dick, you find me. Mine is the only dick you’ll ever get.”
Dimitri will do everything in his power to make Ivy his and Ivy will make him work for her love and affection even with danger looming on the horizon. This was action packed and cute. However, Ivy was a little bit of a snob and I had a difficult time relating to her and how she saw the entire situation regarding Dimitri. The steam in here was yummy but I would have liked it to be steamier and the light daddy kink felt out of place. It just didn't fit for them and felt thrown in for more of a shock factor. I liked the suspense element in here and look forward to Tristano's book. Overall, not my favorite of the series but still a fun and light read.
June 5, 2023
First time reader of Cala Riley and her brother best friend, bodyguard romance, definitely hit some love of me this hard days.
So this is the story of Dimitri the second in comand to the Pakhan Nicolai Petrov who is the character in the previous book in the series.
Dimitri is appointed by the pakhan to look after the most important person in he's life his little sister Ivanna Petrova.
This little spitfire that have crush one her brother best friend from little,finally see that she have no chance to be with him,and that her life is surrounded in her golden cage,is forced to get her life in her own hands, and to do the thing she swore not do.
Namely, to make her brother to arrange her marriage to someone, who will save her ,from her suffocating life.
But when Dimitri find out about this ,hell definitely break out, and he do anything in his power to show Ivanna that he is the man for her.
Now I like this bodyguard romance, with slay age gap(7yrs),but this one was not my favorite. I like the push and pull between the characters, but Ivanna was little bit of naive,and Dimitri not my cup of tea with he's lessmafia charm possessiv man.
But overall quick easy and short read for slay killing time and little action.
So this is the story of Dimitri the second in comand to the Pakhan Nicolai Petrov who is the character in the previous book in the series.
Dimitri is appointed by the pakhan to look after the most important person in he's life his little sister Ivanna Petrova.
This little spitfire that have crush one her brother best friend from little,finally see that she have no chance to be with him,and that her life is surrounded in her golden cage,is forced to get her life in her own hands, and to do the thing she swore not do.
Namely, to make her brother to arrange her marriage to someone, who will save her ,from her suffocating life.
But when Dimitri find out about this ,hell definitely break out, and he do anything in his power to show Ivanna that he is the man for her.
Now I like this bodyguard romance, with slay age gap(7yrs),but this one was not my favorite. I like the push and pull between the characters, but Ivanna was little bit of naive,and Dimitri not my cup of tea with he's lessmafia charm possessiv man.
But overall quick easy and short read for slay killing time and little action.
May 23, 2023
I am OBSESSED with this series- every book adds another book boyfriend to the ever growing list.
This duo does mafia romance like no other! Dimitri is just *yummy* I love the back and forth between these two even though on occasion I wanted to shake Ivy. This is a slow burn but man when they finally get together they get together and your kindle will be melting. The relationship is not without it trials but Dimitri is all in and will stop it nothing to prove it to Ivy. As always character and world building is well done! Can’t wait for Tristiano and another man for my list 😉
This duo does mafia romance like no other! Dimitri is just *yummy* I love the back and forth between these two even though on occasion I wanted to shake Ivy. This is a slow burn but man when they finally get together they get together and your kindle will be melting. The relationship is not without it trials but Dimitri is all in and will stop it nothing to prove it to Ivy. As always character and world building is well done! Can’t wait for Tristiano and another man for my list 😉
May 25, 2023
♥️Dimitri
Reviewed in the United States on May 22, 2023
I loved Dimitri! Give me a Russian mafia, possessive, alpha-hole any day!
Dimitri and Ivy’s relationship is like a volcano! Explosive and hot AF! The sexual tension with these two is strong! I don’t want to spoil it for anyone but damn is it hot!
You won’t regret reading Dimitri. And you will get sucked into the entire Syndicate Series!
**Fav quote**
“I will always be loyal to you. But if you make me choose, my loyalty to her will always win out.”
Reviewed in the United States on May 22, 2023
I loved Dimitri! Give me a Russian mafia, possessive, alpha-hole any day!
Dimitri and Ivy’s relationship is like a volcano! Explosive and hot AF! The sexual tension with these two is strong! I don’t want to spoil it for anyone but damn is it hot!
You won’t regret reading Dimitri. And you will get sucked into the entire Syndicate Series!
**Fav quote**
“I will always be loyal to you. But if you make me choose, my loyalty to her will always win out.”
May 25, 2023
Dimitri by Cala Riley is book 8 in the Syndicates Series. This is the story of Dimitri and Ivanna 'Ivy'. This series is a interconnecting one so I think it does help to read the previous books....and they are wonderful! If you have read the previous book 'Nikolai' then you have met Dimitri because he is Nikolai 2nd in commend. Along with that, Ivanna is Nikolai sister. Ivanna had along time crush on Dimitri but that ended with he broke her heart when she was a teenager. Now she is going to college and wanting to spread her wings. But, Dimitri has been protecting Ivanna since she was a kid and he a teenager. Dimitri wants her and this starts their story. Enjoy!
July 22, 2023
Ok dang it all to heck balls now I’m going to have to buy the rest of this series was so dang good
Read
February 6, 2024Heroine is annoying.
She wants Hero but is so wishy washy.. wants him to have no other priorities in life but her then gets hurt if he does but is also willing to marry a stranger. She sucked.
She wants Hero but is so wishy washy.. wants him to have no other priorities in life but her then gets hurt if he does but is also willing to marry a stranger. She sucked.
May 25, 2023
Oh the things this book did to me. The things Dimitri did to me. I was smitten from the very start and it never let up once throughout the entire read. I absolutely could have stayed in Dimitri and Ivy’s own little world forever.
Since Ivanna was a little girl, she has held on to the words her late mother spoke to her about fairytale love and how not to settle. She wants that. She wants it with Dimitri. But at 16 he ruins those dreams for her and soon puts her under lock and key in everything she does. Feeling captive in her life she tells Nik it’s time for her to move on. Only Dimitri isn’t having it. He will fight to prove they belong together.
Oh my heart the romance in this book. Semi slowburn but juicy and sexy af. Their romance twisted me up something good and I flounced around in it. I could not get enough. I wanted anything and everything these two were dishing out. Especially the dirty talk from Dimitri. Gimmie.
Great story all around. Dimitri is probably my favorite so far in the series. But with more to come and the way these ladies write, I am betting that’s sure to change. 5 Stars.
Since Ivanna was a little girl, she has held on to the words her late mother spoke to her about fairytale love and how not to settle. She wants that. She wants it with Dimitri. But at 16 he ruins those dreams for her and soon puts her under lock and key in everything she does. Feeling captive in her life she tells Nik it’s time for her to move on. Only Dimitri isn’t having it. He will fight to prove they belong together.
Oh my heart the romance in this book. Semi slowburn but juicy and sexy af. Their romance twisted me up something good and I flounced around in it. I could not get enough. I wanted anything and everything these two were dishing out. Especially the dirty talk from Dimitri. Gimmie.
Great story all around. Dimitri is probably my favorite so far in the series. But with more to come and the way these ladies write, I am betting that’s sure to change. 5 Stars.
May 31, 2023
Oh my goodness, I can't with Dimitri and Ivanna. Ngl, I cried when Ivanna said all those words to her brother as she couldn't take it anymore of being caged by Dimitri's protectiveness. But that is what he needed to wake up and realised what he's doing is just hurting her, that she's willing to choose someone else and not someone she loves for so long. Their story really got me and my heart. I can definitely feel Ivanna's emotions in it. however, I do still feel like she's showing her young age especially when she's a bit impulsive and irrational. Like she couldn't give Dimitri some slack when all he was doing is protecting her. Still, I enjoyed it because of Dimitri.
July 21, 2025
(I received an ARC for this book)
Trigger Warnings include:
human trafficking, kidnapping, mafia related violence, breeding kink, mentions of rape, mentions of drug use/distribution
As soon as I finished reading Nikolai, I jumped right into this book because I couldn’t wait another second before getting more of Dimitri and Ivanna! Dimitri is the mafia man we dream of. He has a tight leash, is overprotective, completely possessive, carries around a match to burn down the world, and makes sure she’s easy to track. Dimitri is dominating in all things. Ivanna, though, has all the control. Their stubbornness drove me crazy just as much as I loved it! The tension was delicious! It’s a cat and mouse chase with them. She wants out of her gilded cage, he wants to put her in another one. But when she decides she wants to fly into someone else’s cage, Dimitri realizes he’s losing his chance. I was secretly hoping that Nikolai was going to beat the tar outta Dimitri for causing this issue. But when he instantly started torture himself for hurting Ivy? Gosh that broke my heart! I was still afraid that at any moment Dimitri and Nikolai were going to kill each other! Scarier than any third act break up. Because let’s be honest, Ivy and Dimitri were always a sure thing. It was always her, and it was always him. They never had any other choice. Once they both opened their hearts and truly gave their all, there was no stopping them. Dimitri made sure of that!
printsessa: 56
My Favorite Quotes:
• “You have always been mine.”
• “I can love you enough for the both of us.”
• “My loyalty to her will always win out.”
• “If she dies, I won’t have a reason to live.”
• “If anyone sees what’s mine, I will be committing murder.”
• “I needed to prepare to be what you need.”
• “More of you. Make me feel good. Claim me. Make me yours. Please.”
• “You want the heart from my chest? I’ll carve it out and hand it to you on a silver platter.”
• “I’m so desperately in love with you that I can’t even breathe without you near me.”
• “You existing does everything I need.”
• “You are embedded into my soul.”
• “I’m in love with who you already are.”
• “I would burn the f!cking world down if I can’t have you.”
8/10 Dirty Birdy
7/10 Age Gap
8/10 Dark Romance
6/10 Enemies to Lovers
5/10 Forced Proximity
9/10 Mafia Romance
6/10 Slow Burn
9/10 Series
This is my review for Matteo
This is my review for Killian
This is my review for Haruaki
This is my review for Nikolai
This is my review for Enzo
This is my review for Callum
This is my review for Kenji
This is my review for Tristano
This is my review for Declan
This is my review for Kado
This is my review for Maxim
This is my review for Oh Holy Night
Trigger Warnings include:
human trafficking, kidnapping, mafia related violence, breeding kink, mentions of rape, mentions of drug use/distribution
As soon as I finished reading Nikolai, I jumped right into this book because I couldn’t wait another second before getting more of Dimitri and Ivanna! Dimitri is the mafia man we dream of. He has a tight leash, is overprotective, completely possessive, carries around a match to burn down the world, and makes sure she’s easy to track. Dimitri is dominating in all things. Ivanna, though, has all the control. Their stubbornness drove me crazy just as much as I loved it! The tension was delicious! It’s a cat and mouse chase with them. She wants out of her gilded cage, he wants to put her in another one. But when she decides she wants to fly into someone else’s cage, Dimitri realizes he’s losing his chance. I was secretly hoping that Nikolai was going to beat the tar outta Dimitri for causing this issue. But when he instantly started torture himself for hurting Ivy? Gosh that broke my heart! I was still afraid that at any moment Dimitri and Nikolai were going to kill each other! Scarier than any third act break up. Because let’s be honest, Ivy and Dimitri were always a sure thing. It was always her, and it was always him. They never had any other choice. Once they both opened their hearts and truly gave their all, there was no stopping them. Dimitri made sure of that!
printsessa: 56
My Favorite Quotes:
• “You have always been mine.”
• “I can love you enough for the both of us.”
• “My loyalty to her will always win out.”
• “If she dies, I won’t have a reason to live.”
• “If anyone sees what’s mine, I will be committing murder.”
• “I needed to prepare to be what you need.”
• “More of you. Make me feel good. Claim me. Make me yours. Please.”
• “You want the heart from my chest? I’ll carve it out and hand it to you on a silver platter.”
• “I’m so desperately in love with you that I can’t even breathe without you near me.”
• “You existing does everything I need.”
• “You are embedded into my soul.”
• “I’m in love with who you already are.”
• “I would burn the f!cking world down if I can’t have you.”
8/10 Dirty Birdy
7/10 Age Gap
8/10 Dark Romance
6/10 Enemies to Lovers
5/10 Forced Proximity
9/10 Mafia Romance
6/10 Slow Burn
9/10 Series
This is my review for Matteo
This is my review for Killian
This is my review for Haruaki
This is my review for Nikolai
This is my review for Enzo
This is my review for Callum
This is my review for Kenji
This is my review for Tristano
This is my review for Declan
This is my review for Kado
This is my review for Maxim
This is my review for Oh Holy Night
May 17, 2023
thank you greys promotion and Cala Riley for this arc in exchange for an honest review*
this is book 8 in the series but can be read as a stand-alone. this was the first book that I read of Cala Riley’s and now I want to go back & read their other books.
this is Dimitri and Ivy’s story and it was DELICIOUS!
Ivanna is a mafia princess and the sister of the Pakhan Nik.
Dimitri is Nik’s best friend and right hand man who has made a vow to always watch over & protect Ivy.
Dimitri is possessive and ruthless and he will kill anyone who touches Ivy.
I really loved a lot about this story and that dirty mouth on Dimitri was 🤤
one thing I couldn’t stand was how immature Ivy was and the miscommunication from her made me want to rip my hair out. she kept flip flopping over the smallest things & would go off on Dimitri.
this is book 8 in the series but can be read as a stand-alone. this was the first book that I read of Cala Riley’s and now I want to go back & read their other books.
this is Dimitri and Ivy’s story and it was DELICIOUS!
Ivanna is a mafia princess and the sister of the Pakhan Nik.
Dimitri is Nik’s best friend and right hand man who has made a vow to always watch over & protect Ivy.
Dimitri is possessive and ruthless and he will kill anyone who touches Ivy.
I really loved a lot about this story and that dirty mouth on Dimitri was 🤤
one thing I couldn’t stand was how immature Ivy was and the miscommunication from her made me want to rip my hair out. she kept flip flopping over the smallest things & would go off on Dimitri.
February 2, 2024
DNF @ 61%
May 26, 2023
Steamy, angst ridden, with a bit of a mystery underlying the larger storyline, Dimitri is the sort of mafia romance that’s deliciously engaging. We finally get to see what’s really been going on between Dimitri, who’s second in command next to Nikolai, and Nikolai’s younger sister Ivanna. He’s been protecting her since she was little in his own way and then for the last few years her safety has been left to him entirely. It’s a job Dimitri’s always taken seriously…too seriously for Ivanna’s liking. When the story begins, she’s so desperate to be rid of Dimitri’s overbearing ways that she’s willing to be married off to get away. He’s not having that though, and what ensues is plenty of push and pull. Will Dimitri and Ivanna be able to make it work, or will Ivanna get what she claims she wants and run off to get married to be rid of her invisible shackles?
Holy hotness! Dimitri is everything I love my MMCs in a mafia romance to be. He’s overprotective, intense, a little bit vulnerable where his woman is concerned, and a whole lot spicy. Since we met his character, he’s been the broody bodyguard that takes his job to a whole new level. Here we find out his true backstory and what he thinks of Ivanna’s plan, and without giving anything away I’ll just say that I found myself swooning over him.
And Ivanna’s admirable in the sense that she’s got a mind of her own, but she’s young and a little naïve and ruled by her emotions. She’s definitely deeper than you might assume a character like hers could be, and I loved her for all her strengths and flaws alike. Together they work, and the sparks and steaminess between them? Yes, please!
Also, I like that we get a secondary storyline that complicates the overall plot. It adds even more tension to the book, and it fuels what’s going on with Dimitri and Ivanna, too. The added stress makes what’s already happening that much more interesting, and seeing how our main characters deal propelled their story.
If you love steamy mafia romances with a good dose of angst and some moments of sweetness, then you’ll want to give this one a read. I enjoyed Dimitri and Ivanna’s story, and I’m really looking forward to seeing where this series goes from here.
Holy hotness! Dimitri is everything I love my MMCs in a mafia romance to be. He’s overprotective, intense, a little bit vulnerable where his woman is concerned, and a whole lot spicy. Since we met his character, he’s been the broody bodyguard that takes his job to a whole new level. Here we find out his true backstory and what he thinks of Ivanna’s plan, and without giving anything away I’ll just say that I found myself swooning over him.
And Ivanna’s admirable in the sense that she’s got a mind of her own, but she’s young and a little naïve and ruled by her emotions. She’s definitely deeper than you might assume a character like hers could be, and I loved her for all her strengths and flaws alike. Together they work, and the sparks and steaminess between them? Yes, please!
Also, I like that we get a secondary storyline that complicates the overall plot. It adds even more tension to the book, and it fuels what’s going on with Dimitri and Ivanna, too. The added stress makes what’s already happening that much more interesting, and seeing how our main characters deal propelled their story.
If you love steamy mafia romances with a good dose of angst and some moments of sweetness, then you’ll want to give this one a read. I enjoyed Dimitri and Ivanna’s story, and I’m really looking forward to seeing where this series goes from here.
May 22, 2023
I was so excited to read Dimitri’s story.
He absolutely caught my attention while I was reading Nikolai’s book.
Dimitri is 100% alpha. He’s dominant and possessive like crazy.
He’s been taking care and looking out for Ivanna since she was six and he only thirteen.
He takes that position and role seriously. And he won’t let anyone interfere with the precautions he has in place for her. Not even her own brother.
Ivanna has always had a crush on her protector and brother’s best friend Dimitri.
When she moves a move on him when she sixteen he’s taken aback.
Since then their relationship has changed. It’s rocky and combative.
Ivy is sick and tired of what’s happening between them so she decides on an option to get herself out of the situation. But that decision has Dimitri going absolutely insane.
I appreciated Ivy’s strength and her strong will. Having those traits has seen her through some tough times.
But sometimes that girl can be so stubborn and acting impulsively.
Dimitri sure does have his hands full with the little hellion.
But he has also played a big part in her wanting to get away from under his thumb.
I loved that Dimitri was willing to change and be what she needed.
He grew and developed so much. Willing to compromise and negotiate.
Ivanna is also taking steps to be more open minded and more patient.
But at times I really wanted to shake her. Especially that last time when everything could have gone so wrong. But experience is the best teacher. So she learned and became the wiser for it.
Just when things are going on track for these two. They may find themselves derailed.
Because a dangerous player has now entered into their territory and no one knows what he has planned. Evil and danger lurk everywhere.
While the story is filled with action and drama. The spice here is sizzling as well.
Dimitri and Ivanna burn up the pages! Their passion and lust is sexy, dirty and wicked.
Perfect blend of intrigue and spice.
I really enjoyed reading this book, it did not disappoint.
He absolutely caught my attention while I was reading Nikolai’s book.
Dimitri is 100% alpha. He’s dominant and possessive like crazy.
He’s been taking care and looking out for Ivanna since she was six and he only thirteen.
He takes that position and role seriously. And he won’t let anyone interfere with the precautions he has in place for her. Not even her own brother.
Ivanna has always had a crush on her protector and brother’s best friend Dimitri.
When she moves a move on him when she sixteen he’s taken aback.
Since then their relationship has changed. It’s rocky and combative.
Ivy is sick and tired of what’s happening between them so she decides on an option to get herself out of the situation. But that decision has Dimitri going absolutely insane.
I appreciated Ivy’s strength and her strong will. Having those traits has seen her through some tough times.
But sometimes that girl can be so stubborn and acting impulsively.
Dimitri sure does have his hands full with the little hellion.
But he has also played a big part in her wanting to get away from under his thumb.
I loved that Dimitri was willing to change and be what she needed.
He grew and developed so much. Willing to compromise and negotiate.
Ivanna is also taking steps to be more open minded and more patient.
But at times I really wanted to shake her. Especially that last time when everything could have gone so wrong. But experience is the best teacher. So she learned and became the wiser for it.
Just when things are going on track for these two. They may find themselves derailed.
Because a dangerous player has now entered into their territory and no one knows what he has planned. Evil and danger lurk everywhere.
While the story is filled with action and drama. The spice here is sizzling as well.
Dimitri and Ivanna burn up the pages! Their passion and lust is sexy, dirty and wicked.
Perfect blend of intrigue and spice.
I really enjoyed reading this book, it did not disappoint.
May 23, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🔥🔥🔥
“I will always be loyal to you, but if you make me choose, my loyalty to her will always win out.”
This is the eighth book in The Syndicates series and I couldn’t put this book down. I’m obsessed with the series and I love how each one is a standalone. This writing duo never disappoints with their books.
Ivanna is a Bratva Princess and she is tired of her gilded cage. She just wants a little bit of freedom but she will never get that with Dimitri as her protector. Dimitri is best friend and second in command to Ivanna brother Nikolai, the Pakhan. When Nikolai took over he gave Dimitri control over Ivanna safety since she was young and when she told him about her feeling, he didn’t return them because he was older than her. Their relationship changed becoming more rocky especially now that she’s in college and wants more freedom, so she take things into her own hand and makes her brother set up an arrange marriage for her since Dimitri doesn’t want her, let’s just say that didn’t go well when Dimitri found. But things become complicated for them when people start to go missing on their territory. So will Dimitri be able to keep her for himself or will his job and her safety always get in their way?
Their chemistry and banter was electric from the beginning to the end and the slow burn between them only made it so much better. Their relationship was bumpy but once they were on the same page they were fire together. They didn’t disappoint in the spice department once they got their hands on each other. I love how possessive/obsessive/protective Dimitri was with Ivanna and how he wanted her no matter what she did or how she acted. I loved all their moments together from them arguing to them watching movies but also their relationship with the other characters. Overall this book has a bit of everything drama, suspense, action, and romance. I can’t wait for Tristano’s book.
I would recommend if you like:
🧡Mafia romance
🧡Bodyguard
🧡Age gap
🧡Brother’s Best friend
🧡Steamy Scenes 🔥
Thank you Grey’s Promotion for the ARC!!
🔥🔥🔥
“I will always be loyal to you, but if you make me choose, my loyalty to her will always win out.”
This is the eighth book in The Syndicates series and I couldn’t put this book down. I’m obsessed with the series and I love how each one is a standalone. This writing duo never disappoints with their books.
Ivanna is a Bratva Princess and she is tired of her gilded cage. She just wants a little bit of freedom but she will never get that with Dimitri as her protector. Dimitri is best friend and second in command to Ivanna brother Nikolai, the Pakhan. When Nikolai took over he gave Dimitri control over Ivanna safety since she was young and when she told him about her feeling, he didn’t return them because he was older than her. Their relationship changed becoming more rocky especially now that she’s in college and wants more freedom, so she take things into her own hand and makes her brother set up an arrange marriage for her since Dimitri doesn’t want her, let’s just say that didn’t go well when Dimitri found. But things become complicated for them when people start to go missing on their territory. So will Dimitri be able to keep her for himself or will his job and her safety always get in their way?
Their chemistry and banter was electric from the beginning to the end and the slow burn between them only made it so much better. Their relationship was bumpy but once they were on the same page they were fire together. They didn’t disappoint in the spice department once they got their hands on each other. I love how possessive/obsessive/protective Dimitri was with Ivanna and how he wanted her no matter what she did or how she acted. I loved all their moments together from them arguing to them watching movies but also their relationship with the other characters. Overall this book has a bit of everything drama, suspense, action, and romance. I can’t wait for Tristano’s book.
I would recommend if you like:
🧡Mafia romance
🧡Bodyguard
🧡Age gap
🧡Brother’s Best friend
🧡Steamy Scenes 🔥
Thank you Grey’s Promotion for the ARC!!
May 25, 2023
After we were introduced to Dimitri in Nikolai as his right hand man I have been ready to be back with this Russian family. Ivanna is the sheltered and protected sister of the head of the mafia. Her most fierce protector is Dimitri. Even in previous books it is clear that Dimitri and Ivanna have strong feelings for one another. Not all love either.
Dimitri is almost as grumpy & stoic as they come. He has dedicated his life to the Russian mafia, but mostly dedicated to keeping Ivanna safe and protected. Some may say he is obsessed. But his number one priority is always Ivanna’s safety and happiness. He knows that one day Ivanna will be his and all will be right in the world for him.
Ivanna grew up pretty sheltered and others might say spoiled. But her world is small. As a college student she wants to spread her wings and enjoy life a little. She pushes back on Nikoli and Dimitri around her protection and her ability to live as a normal college girl all while trying to mend her broken heart. At 16 Dimitri broke her heart, and she is set on finding her one true love.
When danger is on Ivanna’s doorstep Dimitri wants to wrap Ivanna up in a bubble all while she is trying to break free. This push pull was amazing. Dimitri and Ivanna had some seriously epic banter and intense arguments….that the readers could see exactly what it was….amazing and intense sexual tension! And my oh my when these two finally gave in HOLY buckets I thought my kindle would melt! It was THAT good friends. While I would classify this as a slow burn it absolutely made sense. Rushing sexual intimacy would have not have worked.
One of my favorite things about this author duo’s mafia books is how the different families around the country work together for the common good. While some might think that they are the bad guys, they really are family men at heart and want to protect those they love. If you love a great mafia series where the authors make the couple work for their HEA this book should 100% be on your kindle!
Dimitri is almost as grumpy & stoic as they come. He has dedicated his life to the Russian mafia, but mostly dedicated to keeping Ivanna safe and protected. Some may say he is obsessed. But his number one priority is always Ivanna’s safety and happiness. He knows that one day Ivanna will be his and all will be right in the world for him.
Ivanna grew up pretty sheltered and others might say spoiled. But her world is small. As a college student she wants to spread her wings and enjoy life a little. She pushes back on Nikoli and Dimitri around her protection and her ability to live as a normal college girl all while trying to mend her broken heart. At 16 Dimitri broke her heart, and she is set on finding her one true love.
When danger is on Ivanna’s doorstep Dimitri wants to wrap Ivanna up in a bubble all while she is trying to break free. This push pull was amazing. Dimitri and Ivanna had some seriously epic banter and intense arguments….that the readers could see exactly what it was….amazing and intense sexual tension! And my oh my when these two finally gave in HOLY buckets I thought my kindle would melt! It was THAT good friends. While I would classify this as a slow burn it absolutely made sense. Rushing sexual intimacy would have not have worked.
One of my favorite things about this author duo’s mafia books is how the different families around the country work together for the common good. While some might think that they are the bad guys, they really are family men at heart and want to protect those they love. If you love a great mafia series where the authors make the couple work for their HEA this book should 100% be on your kindle!
May 24, 2023
'"I want to be happy, Dimitri. I don’t think you can make me happy.”
From the start, you knew that you were going to be in for one hell of a ride, as yet again Cala Riley produced a heart-stopping heat charged, fast-paced read, how dark dangerous and scary Dimitir can also have me swooning is beyond me but, it only goes to prove how well these two writers draw you into the romantic dark worlds they create.
Ivanna, the sister of the head of the mafia, has crushed on Dimitri since she was six and he was 13, Dimitri is also best friends with her brother Nik so, their lives have always been entwined, especially 15-years-later when he is now Nik's right-hand man and also the man who is tasked to keep her safe, Dimitri may be at last ready to claim Ivy, but is he too late?
'My woman. My printsessa. My forever.'
This couple has so much chemistry, and such a connection that you know when they finally give in to their feelings, it will be explosive, and boy was it, well done Cala Riley for making their bedroom scenes so hot yet so beautiful but not overpowering the wonderful fast-paced storyline, because while Dimitri and Ivy are working out their dynamics there is an ugly force at play too and one that puts Ivy and those around her in danger but, they haven't planned for Dimitiri who will stop at nothing to keep his Printessa safe, there is one heart-stopping moment near the end of the story that catapults Dimitiri to the top of the book boyfriend list and, made my heart stop beating for just a moment, it was spine-tingling perfect.
"You're mine, printesessa. You will be mine for eternity."
May 27, 2023
She's loved him for as long as she can remember. He's Sworn to protect her until his last breath.
Ivanna has only ever loved one person, envisioned her future and building a life with one person and that's Dimitri Lukin, her brother's best friend , his second in command, head of her security and most loyal protector. As the years passed by her crush as only grown and now she's had enough, she's finally grown tired of her unrequited love,she's desperate for freedom, to break free from the shackles on her life, on her heart placed there by the man she loves.
Dimitri took protecting Ivanna to heart and in doing so he unknowingly pushed her away but when he learns of her decision to be married off the feelings he's pushed aside can no longer be ignored long gone are the days of seeing her as his best friends little sister and now no one can stop him from having her....no one can stop him from making her his,not even Ivanna herself.
That side to Dimitri that he reserved for Ivanna and Ivanna alone was beautiful I loved how he showed her because words only mean so much ,he showed her that even though he acted indifferent to her over the years his heart was always hers. The lengths he went to to validate that his feelings for her wasn't fleeting but all consuming, the way he created her all her dream dates to show her that he's aware of all her dreams, that every time she spoke he listened because knowing every little detail of her life was precious to him.
Though she was skeptical as to why he was now showing her how he felt she couldn't deny that could never love anyone the way she loved him , that he would out a doubt protect her until his last breath and that no other man could light up her world like Dimitri could.
Ivanna has only ever loved one person, envisioned her future and building a life with one person and that's Dimitri Lukin, her brother's best friend , his second in command, head of her security and most loyal protector. As the years passed by her crush as only grown and now she's had enough, she's finally grown tired of her unrequited love,she's desperate for freedom, to break free from the shackles on her life, on her heart placed there by the man she loves.
Dimitri took protecting Ivanna to heart and in doing so he unknowingly pushed her away but when he learns of her decision to be married off the feelings he's pushed aside can no longer be ignored long gone are the days of seeing her as his best friends little sister and now no one can stop him from having her....no one can stop him from making her his,not even Ivanna herself.
That side to Dimitri that he reserved for Ivanna and Ivanna alone was beautiful I loved how he showed her because words only mean so much ,he showed her that even though he acted indifferent to her over the years his heart was always hers. The lengths he went to to validate that his feelings for her wasn't fleeting but all consuming, the way he created her all her dream dates to show her that he's aware of all her dreams, that every time she spoke he listened because knowing every little detail of her life was precious to him.
Though she was skeptical as to why he was now showing her how he felt she couldn't deny that could never love anyone the way she loved him , that he would out a doubt protect her until his last breath and that no other man could light up her world like Dimitri could.
June 9, 2023
Thank you Greys and Cala for sending me a copy to read and review. Apologies for it being late.
Well what a blooming Book. I literally demolished it in 2 days around the kids and Uni work.
Dimitri is Nikolai's second in command. He is also his best friend and the object of Nikolai's sister Ivanna's fantasy's. Only Dimitri with dark and dangerous stare but a barrier between them when she made he feelings clear to him at the age of 16, which lead to him making a drastic promise between Nikolai and Dimitri one Ivanna is oblivious to. Dimitri wasn't ready back then but as time has gone on and the more time they have had to annoy each other his love for her has blossomed.
Ivanna is quite young minded after loosing her mother at young age, all she has left are the words she spoke to her about finding the love of her life. the small Guidance's in which Ivanna uses to make the right decisions but sometimes these decisions lead her to be a little selfish and childish. Instead of facing problems she tends to run. When Dimitri's over protective security techniques get too much for her. She reaches out to her brother to set up some dates for he to look at potential suitors. What she doesn't realise is what she is about to cause by doing so.
When Dimitri finds out about Ivanna's demands, he is livid but this also gives him the kick up the backside to finally pull his head together and make his move in securing the only women he has and ever will love. This story was incredible. I was hooked from the very beginning. Once i started i just didnt want to put it down. I seriously can not wait for more in the syndicate series because WOW!
My Overall Rating is 5 💋💋💋💋💋
My Character Rating is 5 ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
My Smut Rating is 2 🍆🍆
My Angst Rating is 4 😬😬😬😬
Well what a blooming Book. I literally demolished it in 2 days around the kids and Uni work.
Dimitri is Nikolai's second in command. He is also his best friend and the object of Nikolai's sister Ivanna's fantasy's. Only Dimitri with dark and dangerous stare but a barrier between them when she made he feelings clear to him at the age of 16, which lead to him making a drastic promise between Nikolai and Dimitri one Ivanna is oblivious to. Dimitri wasn't ready back then but as time has gone on and the more time they have had to annoy each other his love for her has blossomed.
Ivanna is quite young minded after loosing her mother at young age, all she has left are the words she spoke to her about finding the love of her life. the small Guidance's in which Ivanna uses to make the right decisions but sometimes these decisions lead her to be a little selfish and childish. Instead of facing problems she tends to run. When Dimitri's over protective security techniques get too much for her. She reaches out to her brother to set up some dates for he to look at potential suitors. What she doesn't realise is what she is about to cause by doing so.
When Dimitri finds out about Ivanna's demands, he is livid but this also gives him the kick up the backside to finally pull his head together and make his move in securing the only women he has and ever will love. This story was incredible. I was hooked from the very beginning. Once i started i just didnt want to put it down. I seriously can not wait for more in the syndicate series because WOW!
My Overall Rating is 5 💋💋💋💋💋
My Character Rating is 5 ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
My Smut Rating is 2 🍆🍆
My Angst Rating is 4 😬😬😬😬
May 7, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️🌶️🌶️
✨Mafia
✨Friends to Lovers
✨Protective Bodyguard
✨Childhood Crush
•Dual POV
•Stand-alone, but part of The Syndicates
This book was so good! 🔥
Ivanna & Dimitri have been friends for years. Ivanna is the daughter of the Russian Pahkan and Dimitri works for him. Ivanna’s brother Nik takes over as the Pakhan and allows Ivanna to choose who she gets to marry, instead of forcing her into an arranged marriage. Ivanna has always loved Dimitri, but Dimitri let her know years ago that nothing could happen. Even though he said that, he felt the complete opposite. Dimitri is in charge of her safety, but goes overboard with her protection, causing Ivanna to break. She wants Dimitri but doesn’t think he loves her the way she wants. Dimitri is set out to prove to her love any way he can. Along the way, they learn of a problem in their area of trafficking women and harvesting organs. When Ivanna’s friend & roommate goes missing, it is up to her family to help find her.
I loved the twists and turns of this book. It kept me on the edge of my seat trying to figure out who was plotting out to get to Ivanna. I also loved the connection between Dimitri & Ivanna. Their love ran so deep, that Dimitri would rather die than be without Ivanna for any second. 🥹
Also, the amazing references to the All-American Rejects & 90s gangster rap! 🥳
I’m looking forward to reading Tristiano’s story next!
Favorite Quote:
“I would literally give you my last breath as long as it meant you kept breathing. You want the heart from my chest? I’ll carve it out and hand it to you on a silver platter.”
🌶️🌶️🌶️
✨Mafia
✨Friends to Lovers
✨Protective Bodyguard
✨Childhood Crush
•Dual POV
•Stand-alone, but part of The Syndicates
This book was so good! 🔥
Ivanna & Dimitri have been friends for years. Ivanna is the daughter of the Russian Pahkan and Dimitri works for him. Ivanna’s brother Nik takes over as the Pakhan and allows Ivanna to choose who she gets to marry, instead of forcing her into an arranged marriage. Ivanna has always loved Dimitri, but Dimitri let her know years ago that nothing could happen. Even though he said that, he felt the complete opposite. Dimitri is in charge of her safety, but goes overboard with her protection, causing Ivanna to break. She wants Dimitri but doesn’t think he loves her the way she wants. Dimitri is set out to prove to her love any way he can. Along the way, they learn of a problem in their area of trafficking women and harvesting organs. When Ivanna’s friend & roommate goes missing, it is up to her family to help find her.
I loved the twists and turns of this book. It kept me on the edge of my seat trying to figure out who was plotting out to get to Ivanna. I also loved the connection between Dimitri & Ivanna. Their love ran so deep, that Dimitri would rather die than be without Ivanna for any second. 🥹
Also, the amazing references to the All-American Rejects & 90s gangster rap! 🥳
I’m looking forward to reading Tristiano’s story next!
Favorite Quote:
“I would literally give you my last breath as long as it meant you kept breathing. You want the heart from my chest? I’ll carve it out and hand it to you on a silver platter.”
May 26, 2023
This story was definitely an emotional rollercoaster ride from start to finish. The drama, angst and emotional ups and downs throughout pulled me in, had a grip on my heart and made it very difficult to put the book down.
Ivanna is a young woman, who has lost a lot at a young age, and feels like she is kept in a gilded cage by her brother and his second Dimitri. She has had a crush on Dimitri since she was little and hoped that he would one day feel the same, but everything stays stagnant except the walls around her keep feeling tighter. When she finally has had enough, she forces the hand of her brother and Dimitri, which ends up pushing Dimitri over the edge.
Dimitri has always protected Ivanna and over the years has come to see her as more than a child. He wants her to pick him as her future but ends making her feel caged instead and backing her into a corner making her do the unthinkable.
Ugh, these two had so much pent-up aggression, anger, hurt and sexual tension flowing between them that it just oozed off the pages. You couldn’t help but feel all their emotional turmoil continually throughout. It was so intense at times that you just wanted to slap some sense into both of them. The slow build up to their explosive first moment was so worth the wait. They have such a fiery relationship but were absolutely made for each other.
I loved this story. It was well written, made me laugh, and at one particular moment Dimitri and Ivanna had me in tears! The underlying suspense and mystery was fantastic and kept me on the edge of my seat guessing on the outcome.
Loved it.
Ivanna is a young woman, who has lost a lot at a young age, and feels like she is kept in a gilded cage by her brother and his second Dimitri. She has had a crush on Dimitri since she was little and hoped that he would one day feel the same, but everything stays stagnant except the walls around her keep feeling tighter. When she finally has had enough, she forces the hand of her brother and Dimitri, which ends up pushing Dimitri over the edge.
Dimitri has always protected Ivanna and over the years has come to see her as more than a child. He wants her to pick him as her future but ends making her feel caged instead and backing her into a corner making her do the unthinkable.
Ugh, these two had so much pent-up aggression, anger, hurt and sexual tension flowing between them that it just oozed off the pages. You couldn’t help but feel all their emotional turmoil continually throughout. It was so intense at times that you just wanted to slap some sense into both of them. The slow build up to their explosive first moment was so worth the wait. They have such a fiery relationship but were absolutely made for each other.
I loved this story. It was well written, made me laugh, and at one particular moment Dimitri and Ivanna had me in tears! The underlying suspense and mystery was fantastic and kept me on the edge of my seat guessing on the outcome.
Loved it.
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