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Cruel Craving
I should’ve known there would be consequences.
After he stole from us, I had to get back at him. I thought I was careful, but he tracked me down.
Mauro Milano. Sicilian mob boss and the Bratva’s sworn enemy.
I came home to find him standing there, surrounded by smoke. An ascended demon in my living room.
Shamefully, I can’t keep still at the thought of him.
His lusty eyes. His easy demeanor. That cigarette hanging from his lips… I must get a grip.
Especially now that he’s killed my father.
I’m left vulnerable. Shouldering a crumbling legacy as sharks close in.
He gives me a choice; marry him or be destroyed by him.
I vow to kill him for his arrogance alone.
For cruel debts have cruel ends. And though my craving is primal, I must emerge a queen.
With his promise of sweet ruin, I unravel every time…
After he stole from us, I had to get back at him. I thought I was careful, but he tracked me down.
Mauro Milano. Sicilian mob boss and the Bratva’s sworn enemy.
I came home to find him standing there, surrounded by smoke. An ascended demon in my living room.
Shamefully, I can’t keep still at the thought of him.
His lusty eyes. His easy demeanor. That cigarette hanging from his lips… I must get a grip.
Especially now that he’s killed my father.
I’m left vulnerable. Shouldering a crumbling legacy as sharks close in.
He gives me a choice; marry him or be destroyed by him.
I vow to kill him for his arrogance alone.
For cruel debts have cruel ends. And though my craving is primal, I must emerge a queen.
With his promise of sweet ruin, I unravel every time…
210 pages, ebook
Published December 1, 2022
7 people are currently reading
119 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
July 1, 2024
Can’t go wrong with a mafia book - especially one with the Russian and Italian mafia! Elena is a feisty, sassy, strong FMC and Mauro is an intense, powerful MMC. The story is about revenge, but does she get it right? This is a steamy, intense, passionate, emotional rollercoaster that is a fantastic, quick read!
December 31, 2023
I loved the plot even though nothing new or extra ordinary about it. but it had me still anticipating the next scene, the next twist and reveal.
The characters are likeable.
Loved the whole 2 mafias joining up.
One thing I would have loved to read more about is the mafia world itself and its complexity. Seems like it was flattened to manage the plot so it fits in this standalone book- which is understandable and was done pretty well👌
The characters are likeable.
Loved the whole 2 mafias joining up.
One thing I would have loved to read more about is the mafia world itself and its complexity. Seems like it was flattened to manage the plot so it fits in this standalone book- which is understandable and was done pretty well👌
April 11, 2023
Cruel Craving, these two characters were amazing, focused of story was more on the two of then. I found her to be a bit child like in the beginning but her strength emerged. Mauro, word is he killed her father, so he could have her, after all he is Sicilian mob boss and the Bratva’s sworn enemy. But she is is about to show him a queen.
Fadt pas , lots of sex. You'll enjoy this book. I received it for free for an honest review. This is the first book I've read by Bryce Keene and can't wait to find her next one.
Fadt pas , lots of sex. You'll enjoy this book. I received it for free for an honest review. This is the first book I've read by Bryce Keene and can't wait to find her next one.
March 28, 2023
So so good I was pulled in straight away by Elena’s strength and sassy attitude, you can feel her every emotion through the words on the page. The only thing that confuses her is the mafia boss she steals from. Mauro is equally confused by his intense feeling towards the bratva princess that he should of killed not fallen in love with. This is like the Italian/ Russian Romeo and Juliet
January 31, 2023
A very enjoyable read. I didn't know what to expect and I was pleasantly surprised. Romance novels can be like watching porn. No real storyline, no coherent dialogue, terrible characters, and mindless sex. This story was woven with interesting characters that are brought together in unlikely circumstances. This is a love story with great sex, but it actually has a foundation in the Italian and Russian mafias. It is possible that opposites attract. Even though they fight it, almost to the end, they eventually figure it out and set out on life's journey. My only suggestion is cutting back on the curse words. It seems unnecessarily padded with them.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 22, 2023
This was a short little story about a bratva princess and a mafia son who fall in love even though they are taught that they are each other’s enemy. They fall hard even through deception and betrayal and find themselves at the end of this story as a true unit. This story was cute and steamy for the most part, but could’ve been much better if it would’ve been edited. There are so many missing words and grammar issues. I haven’t encountered this issue in a long time. It’s just unpleasant.
February 27, 2023
I received a free copy of this after seeing an ad on Facebook you received the book after signing up to receive the authors emails. I read a lot of books of this type of trope. I have kindle unlimited and average about 1-2 a day and many I DNF! This is not one of them, great characters, great story right from the get go. I loved the Bratva Princess had a bit more about them than some books. Would not call it dark but definitely spicy! I am looking forward to more books from this world.
February 11, 2023
Italian and Russian mafia fix. Amazing how love and attraction doesn't follow politics. The chemistry and tension between the fiesty no-nonsense Bratva Elena and diabolical Italian "Scorpion" Mauro is what entertains. Their dialogue sells the story while a murder is being investigated. There is some dark scenes involving BDSM. I really enjoyed these two and their journey.
October 10, 2023
Interesting story-kind of a weird romance-can make you really mad at some point to the story especially the way a woman is treated especially when he thinks that he may be in love with her and yet it’s like the woman doesn’t stand up for herself but it’s a good read.
September 5, 2023
A Bratva princess fueled by love and revenge torn between family loyalty and a forbidden love. Sounds good right? It was, except I have some mixed feelings with this one:
There are a ton of grammatical errors and typos and some of the wording is off. Almost like it was poorly translated into English. It didn’t take away from the story but it was enough to become annoying and mess with the flow. It definitely could have benefited from some good editing.
-1 star
It was a little lacking in depth. Where there was a lot of emotion, there was no emotional connection to the characters. You read it and understand what the characters are feeling, but you don’t feel it yourself. When I read a book I want to feel it.
-1 star
The big “punishment scene” didn’t sit right with me. Rough sex and consensual pain is one thing, but married or not, that was just flat out rape. I get that he’s jealous and possessive (which I’m all for) but he also loves her. I think it would have been a stronger point if when she begged him not to, he listened. That would have shown he respected her and she would have understood that too. At least he ended up apologizing and saying he needed to earn her forgiveness, but that doesn’t make it okay. But just because I don’t like to read about it, doesn’t mean everyone else doesn’t, so I won’t give negative points for that.
Two epilogues was also a little weird. It would have been better off with the first being the last chapter. Or even better, leave the second out and write a sequel.
Despite being predictable, the story was good and had a happy ending. It was a quick read full of spice and drama. I wouldn’t mind reading more from this author.
There are a ton of grammatical errors and typos and some of the wording is off. Almost like it was poorly translated into English. It didn’t take away from the story but it was enough to become annoying and mess with the flow. It definitely could have benefited from some good editing.
-1 star
It was a little lacking in depth. Where there was a lot of emotion, there was no emotional connection to the characters. You read it and understand what the characters are feeling, but you don’t feel it yourself. When I read a book I want to feel it.
-1 star
The big “punishment scene” didn’t sit right with me. Rough sex and consensual pain is one thing, but married or not, that was just flat out rape. I get that he’s jealous and possessive (which I’m all for) but he also loves her. I think it would have been a stronger point if when she begged him not to, he listened. That would have shown he respected her and she would have understood that too. At least he ended up apologizing and saying he needed to earn her forgiveness, but that doesn’t make it okay. But just because I don’t like to read about it, doesn’t mean everyone else doesn’t, so I won’t give negative points for that.
Two epilogues was also a little weird. It would have been better off with the first being the last chapter. Or even better, leave the second out and write a sequel.
Despite being predictable, the story was good and had a happy ending. It was a quick read full of spice and drama. I wouldn’t mind reading more from this author.
July 8, 2023
I enjoyed this book so much that I read it in a single day! Full of action and heated passion, this mafia romance will keep you turning the pages for more! From beginning to end, an absolutely spectacular read. I love how it started, the details, the side characters, and how it ended! Thank you Bruce Keene for allowing me to get lost in this mafia story and for leaving an ending that was more than perfect.
A Russian bratva feuds with their enemy, the Italian/Sicilian mafia. When one sides stands to tear down the other, the ever so loyal Russian mafia daughter takes strides to get back at their enemy; however, she leads Mauro, the Sicilian devil back to her and is now on his personal radar. Their intense passion for each other defies the nature of their family’s relationship and their war against each other. Can they put the past behind them? Or will the web of lies entangled in this story bring them to their downfall?
A Russian bratva feuds with their enemy, the Italian/Sicilian mafia. When one sides stands to tear down the other, the ever so loyal Russian mafia daughter takes strides to get back at their enemy; however, she leads Mauro, the Sicilian devil back to her and is now on his personal radar. Their intense passion for each other defies the nature of their family’s relationship and their war against each other. Can they put the past behind them? Or will the web of lies entangled in this story bring them to their downfall?
March 12, 2023
Cruel cravings
This is the first book by this author that I've read, and I'm completely hooked. This is a short mafia romance story. These characters have so much chemistry between them im surprised the kindle didn't set alight. This is a cute and very steamy reward from the start. This may be a quick read, but so much is packed into the pages, making you want to read more from this author. This is a steamy, action-packed, romantic read you can read in one sitting. I can’t wait to read more from this author in the future.
Print length - 210 pages
Release date - 1 Dec 2022
www.obsessedbookreviews.com
March 28, 2023
My first Bryce Keene book and it will not be my last. There are some parts in the book that made me want to hide for the heroine, some took my breath away and others made me grin or sigh and made me want to read more. These are fantastic characters, both strong and strong willed, it was a great story right from the start. Think Hatfields and the McCoys, Montague and Capulet, falling in love with your enemy, forbidden yet unstoppable, well, this is that set in the Bratva world. Start to finish, the story line was well paced, well thought out and executed with style. Sure there were a few grammatical spelling errors but when the story is this good, you glide right over them. As long as Bryce writes, I will read.
May 12, 2023
It’s funny when you start a book that you are interested in and can’t get enough of. I think I read this book in 2 or 3 sittings. I loved this book from beginning to end. Elena is probably one of the strongest female characters who can hold her own and doesn’t need anyone for anything. She loves with her whine heart and will get revenge on anyone who messes with those she loves.
Mauro, is one strong, determined guy who always gets what he wants and when he meets Elena, instead of showing her what happens when you cross the mafia, he finds himself falling for her.
This book was sooooo good, I absolutely
Loved it. Loved the suspense and relationships formed in it
Mauro, is one strong, determined guy who always gets what he wants and when he meets Elena, instead of showing her what happens when you cross the mafia, he finds himself falling for her.
This book was sooooo good, I absolutely
Loved it. Loved the suspense and relationships formed in it
September 26, 2023
Elena, a Bratva princess, always sheltered from the violent side of the business. Mauro, is a tough, mean, feared Mafia boss.
Her father is murdered, in the most ruthless and cowardly way, with all the blame being directed on the wrong person. Revenge is what Elena focuses on to help get her through her grief.
She never imagined that she would have the feelings that she has, for this person. Mauro is very demanding, and he wants her, badly.
Really enjoyed this true Mafia novel, it is full of violence, mistrust, lies, etc … all the best elements that make it great. Good strong MMC with a FMC that is learning her strengths. Great read.
Her father is murdered, in the most ruthless and cowardly way, with all the blame being directed on the wrong person. Revenge is what Elena focuses on to help get her through her grief.
She never imagined that she would have the feelings that she has, for this person. Mauro is very demanding, and he wants her, badly.
Really enjoyed this true Mafia novel, it is full of violence, mistrust, lies, etc … all the best elements that make it great. Good strong MMC with a FMC that is learning her strengths. Great read.
August 29, 2024
I enjoyed the storyline and the characters. Elena is bright and fearless, someone who could take over for her father. Mauro was domineering but loved Elena. Together they made a good pair. The villain was fairly obvious, but it was okay. I was curious to see when Elena would finally catch on. There were two obvious errors that I caught although there are probably more. Chicago is on Lake Michigan, not Lake Superior, a mistake that should not have been made. Elena was wearing a sheath dress, not a sheaf. I imagined Elena walking int the restaurant wearing a cluster of wheat, and it made me giggle. Other than that, it was an enjoyable book.
March 23, 2025
I did enjoy both characters and the way they interacted. Also appreciated the dual POV. There could be more focus on the mafia lifestyle and its presence, and how they handle things, how the two families interact with each other when forced to become one. Though the main focus was on the two characters—their interactions and the underlying issue of her father's death. It was a bit obvious how it's gonna end, so I was getting antsy with Elena not seeing through the lies she was being fed and Mauro's forgiveness came a bit too easily.
But overall, it was a fast-paced read, and I enjoyed it.
But overall, it was a fast-paced read, and I enjoyed it.
May 25, 2023
I enjoyed this book… a bit different premise than other Mafia books I have read. The marriage between primary characters of the Russian Bratva and Italian Mafia was arranged a bit differently. Both strong characters… But without the expected circumstance where one groups absorbs the other after the head of one family is murdered.
I did receive a copy of this in return for a an honest review. A new author for me - will be looking for her other books.
On an aside - there is an epilogue, and a “later” epilogue so you get a glimpse into the future… I do like this!
I did receive a copy of this in return for a an honest review. A new author for me - will be looking for her other books.
On an aside - there is an epilogue, and a “later” epilogue so you get a glimpse into the future… I do like this!
August 8, 2023
I was gifted this book as an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Elena is a kickass Mafia Brat who will do anything for the ones she loves and Mauro is an arrogant Mafia Don who gives to charity and loves his family with everything he's got... Somehow - even through misunderstandings and a few close calls -, they're perfect for each other. I didn't want their story to end. Chemistry was off the charts and smutty enough without detracting from the love story. If I could give this more stars, I would!!
Elena is a kickass Mafia Brat who will do anything for the ones she loves and Mauro is an arrogant Mafia Don who gives to charity and loves his family with everything he's got... Somehow - even through misunderstandings and a few close calls -, they're perfect for each other. I didn't want their story to end. Chemistry was off the charts and smutty enough without detracting from the love story. If I could give this more stars, I would!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 14, 2023
Unexpected delight. Got this book for free and was not expecting to like it due to the setting as thought it might glorify the mafia. However was pleasantly surprised as although gave some insight into the crime families it was essentially a love story and one I found hard to put down once I started to read. The main characters Elena and Mauro were exciting and likeable despite their backgrounds.
May 1, 2023
I could NOT put this book down…
Mafia✔️
Mob✔️
Enemies to lovers✔️
🥵 🔥 scenes ✔️✔️✔️
Strong as h*ll FMC✔️✔️
Deceit ✔️✔️
This book had it all. Elena and Mauro are a match to be reckoned with. The heat that surrounds them from the first interaction to the last keeps the story moving. Elena is played by one of her own and Mauro pays the price but can he forgive her?
Can a Russian Bratva princess be with an Italian Mob king???
Mafia✔️
Mob✔️
Enemies to lovers✔️
🥵 🔥 scenes ✔️✔️✔️
Strong as h*ll FMC✔️✔️
Deceit ✔️✔️
This book had it all. Elena and Mauro are a match to be reckoned with. The heat that surrounds them from the first interaction to the last keeps the story moving. Elena is played by one of her own and Mauro pays the price but can he forgive her?
Can a Russian Bratva princess be with an Italian Mob king???
May 1, 2023
I could NOT put this book down…
Mafia✔️
Mob✔️
Enemies to lovers✔️
🥵 🔥 scenes ✔️✔️✔️
Strong as h*ll FMC✔️✔️
Deceit ✔️✔️
This book had it all. Elena and Mauro are a match to be reckoned with. The heat that surrounds them from the first interaction to the last keeps the story moving. Elena is played by one of her own and Mauro pays the price but can he forgive her?
Can a Russian Bratva princess be with an Italian Mob king???
Mafia✔️
Mob✔️
Enemies to lovers✔️
🥵 🔥 scenes ✔️✔️✔️
Strong as h*ll FMC✔️✔️
Deceit ✔️✔️
This book had it all. Elena and Mauro are a match to be reckoned with. The heat that surrounds them from the first interaction to the last keeps the story moving. Elena is played by one of her own and Mauro pays the price but can he forgive her?
Can a Russian Bratva princess be with an Italian Mob king???
May 2, 2023
The novel is exquisitely written. There isn't a single scene that I would have preferred to have written differently. From the beginning to the finish, the novel is a breeze to read. It was fantastic.
I really liked how the author created the character of Mauro. The character strikes the perfect balance between authority and a true gentleman's demeanour. I believe we all appreciate a man who has our back and enjoys watching us lead the show with nothing but respect, love, and awe.
I really liked how the author created the character of Mauro. The character strikes the perfect balance between authority and a true gentleman's demeanour. I believe we all appreciate a man who has our back and enjoys watching us lead the show with nothing but respect, love, and awe.
December 13, 2023
I really loved this book I thought it was very well written. I loved the MMC and the FMC the story line was amazing. I like that it was pretty much love at first sight even though she tried to fight it. The spice was so good. I just wish that there was some talking about safe words or even what limits one might have. I get that it doesn't come out and say he's a Dom but the spice pretty much said he was. Other than that the book was amazing I highly recommend reading it.
June 5, 2024
All I can say about this book is WOW! This book was full of love, deceit and lust. Mauro and Elena steamed up the pages and although they are from two very different mafia families and are basically enemies they become so much more with a promise of a good life. I was hooked and now I need so much more. The intensity was off the charts and the story was appealing. Cannot wait to get my hands on the next book.
April 8, 2023
When 2 warring mafia families come to blows and you add in a powerful romantic interest you have the makings of a really good story. There is plenty to enjoy in this tale of revenge and passion between the Bratva and the Sicilians as their age old feud comes to a climax. I really enjoyed this story very much.
August 14, 2023
Driven by revenge Elena was determined to make Mauro suffer. She couldn’t help herself though to be drawn to him. Mauro as well was captivated by Elena and the pair generated so much heat between them.
The story had a good amount of pace and plenty of steam and action to keep my attention.
My first book by Bryce, but it certainly won’t be my last ad I thoroughly enjoyed it!
The story had a good amount of pace and plenty of steam and action to keep my attention.
My first book by Bryce, but it certainly won’t be my last ad I thoroughly enjoyed it!
November 15, 2023
*ARC REVIEW*
This was my first book by this author. I definitely loved this book! I would recommend it! Mafia romance is one of my favorite tropes to read and Bryce did a fantastic job! I loved having the dual POVs and a Female Mafia boss. The plot twist I never seen coming was great! I look forward to reviewing more of Bryce’s work.
This was my first book by this author. I definitely loved this book! I would recommend it! Mafia romance is one of my favorite tropes to read and Bryce did a fantastic job! I loved having the dual POVs and a Female Mafia boss. The plot twist I never seen coming was great! I look forward to reviewing more of Bryce’s work.
December 17, 2023
I just loved this book!! it was intriguing and full of surprises!! Love Maurio and Elena, but the only thing I did not like is the spanking, the paddles, their love scenes need more romance and not that rough with all the gadgets. But I can't wait to read more of your books. You are an amazing writer!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 29, 2024
Elena is the daughter of the Bratva pakan. She helps her father retrieve money that was stolen by Maurizio from the Italian mob. The find out that Elena stole the money.
She goes out dancing with friends and Mauro rescues her from some men. She winds up sleeping with him but can not tell her father.
This was an amazing book the characters were so real and the storyline was great
She goes out dancing with friends and Mauro rescues her from some men. She winds up sleeping with him but can not tell her father.
This was an amazing book the characters were so real and the storyline was great
Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews