I devoureddd this book. I mean like reading at 4am devoured. It was sooo good. Pav and Vik were amazing together, but also both had these tragic backstI devoureddd this book. I mean like reading at 4am devoured. It was sooo good. Pav and Vik were amazing together, but also both had these tragic backstories that made you love them as individual characters. One was trying to get over fear while the other was the very essence of it (which, the title for this book is perfect). No one else could understand them but the other. No one else could catch their interest but the other. Their romance was amazing, both of them overcoming who life had turned them into to be with each other. Trusting one another, and learning that emotions they thought they'd never feel again still existed. And on the other side of that was the violence. Oh, how I loved that aspect too. Hearing about Pav's life in the Compound and everything that went on there. What was going on within the Boykovs since some serious changes were made. And the bad guy, or really guys, God, I just wanted to gut them. This book had my heart beating hard from the very beginning and that continued throughout the story. Another amazing read from Bethany-Kris
Merged review:
I devoureddd this book. I mean like reading at 4am devoured. It was sooo good. Pav and Vik were amazing together, but also both had these tragic backstories that made you love them as individual characters. One was trying to get over fear while the other was the very essence of it (which, the title for this book is perfect). No one else could understand them but the other. No one else could catch their interest but the other. Their romance was amazing, both of them overcoming who life had turned them into to be with each other. Trusting one another, and learning that emotions they thought they'd never feel again still existed. And on the other side of that was the violence. Oh, how I loved that aspect too. Hearing about Pav's life in the Compound and everything that went on there. What was going on within the Boykovs since some serious changes were made. And the bad guy, or really guys, God, I just wanted to gut them. This book had my heart beating hard from the very beginning and that continued throughout the story. Another amazing read from Bethany-Kris...more
Of course, I loved this book. This whole series was just amazing, and this book did not disappoint. I got to find out even more about Vas' past in thisOf course, I loved this book. This whole series was just amazing, and this book did not disappoint. I got to find out even more about Vas' past in this story, and it was just as heartbreaking as the rest, but gave a lot of insight into why he was the way he was. Why something Vera did in this story angered him so much. And why him letting Vera in meant so much, took so much for him. For Vera, she had to deal with so much in this book, way too much for me to put in this review without spoiling the book, but A LOT. But like I've learned throughout this series, she was strong and endured it all. There was a huge twist I never saw coming in this book. I literally screamed when it happened, turned back a page like 'Did that really just happen?' It did and it wrecked me, what happened and the fallout from it. There were so many quotes and pages I highlighted, lines that really just rocked me so much that I found myself having to pause before I could continue reading. Much of this series was like that for me. Mostly because of Vas' pain. Although his was physical, it was so relatable, and the things he often felt because of it were all too easy to understand. And Vera because she loved a difficult man, but knew he was worth that love, even if he didn't always act like it. Amazing books. Amazing series....more
This story just keeps getting better and better. I was highlighting so much in this book. These sentences that just struck me to the core, scenes thatThis story just keeps getting better and better. I was highlighting so much in this book. These sentences that just struck me to the core, scenes that left me so utterly satisfied. I love continuing to watch Vas and Vera's relationship grow, them finding out just how much they mean to one another more and more. And how much they willing to give to the other, do for the other. And as always, I love getting more insights into what has made Vas, Vas. I also liked seeing into Vas and Igor's relationship and how it formed and withstood a lot. And seeing Vas form new relationships, even if reluctantly. There were so many things that came to fruition in this book going back to the first that had me grinning like crazy. To see the author tie it all together, the past and present colliding, and still leaving me wanting more in the future. Secrets are also revealed in this book that have been woven through the other 2 books as well, both giving me answers but making me very curious as to what they mean for what's to come. Although I was mad at Vas towards the end of the book, the ending scene was beautiful. Everything about it was beautiful. I can't wait for the next part of their story....more
First off, I'll start by screaming THE ABSOLUTE BALLS ON VASLAV!!!!!
Okay, okay. Now that I've calmed down, this story was so good. I loved finding outFirst off, I'll start by screaming THE ABSOLUTE BALLS ON VASLAV!!!!!
Okay, okay. Now that I've calmed down, this story was so good. I loved finding out more about Vas' history and seeing more of his feelings for Vera. I liked seeing Vera come to understand him more, and I liked getting to know her better, especially when it comes to her mother. And also seeing her come to the point where she was not going to accept certain things any longer. Both Vas and Vera were more vulnerable in this book, making very clear what draws them together and what sets them apart. Vas was just as brutal in this book, and I reveled in it just as much. Brutal in his words and actions, and I just love it. There were heartbreaks I didn't see coming and a few mysteries left for the next book. That ending, THAT ENDING, was amazing and has me extremely impatient for the next book, for so many reasons....more
This book... Amazing from start to finish. Vas is such a complex character. He's cruel with no remorse. Honest to the point that his words cut, and he This book... Amazing from start to finish. Vas is such a complex character. He's cruel with no remorse. Honest to the point that his words cut, and he doesn't think twice about the blood that leaks from the wound he's made. His life has been one of pain and brutality and he has no problem unleashing that on it. And I loved him for it. His harshness, the way he lived up to people calling him the beast, not to prove something, but because life had made him one and he embraced it. I loved that he was a man of utter control, controlling things around him and his self-control, but that the thing that caused him the most pain, he couldn't control, couldn't fix. Vera held her own in this story, which was hard against a man like Vas. She'd gone to Russia to pursue her dream and when things came crashing down, she took that dream and turned it into a way to help others. She understood Vas in ways that surprised even him, maybe because, even without so much cruelty in her life, she knew what it was to have pain, loss, and hardship, and the way it shaped you, changed you. Although there wasn't a lot of action, what action there was had me grinning because listen, I love when people get what's coming to them. But I didn't miss the action because it always felt like there was suspense around damn near everything surrounding Vas. How he got to be where he was left me wondering if someone was waiting in the wings to take what he had in the same fashion. And always, always Vas seemed ready to explode at any moment and I was on pins and needles during his interactions with people, knowing if they said or did the wrong thing, he would show them exactly why people feared him. The ending took me by utter surprise, like eyes widening, face getting closer to the screen surprise, so needless to say, I can't wait for the next book. Because I need answers, about Vas' past, about Vera's future, about ALL OF IT!...more
This book, this trilogy, was such a breath of fresh air. Not because it was light, but because it was heavy. It dealt with so much and just made me feThis book, this trilogy, was such a breath of fresh air. Not because it was light, but because it was heavy. It dealt with so much and just made me feel all the emotions. It kept me surprised and wondering. It had characters whose choices, at times, were hard to understand, and yet those characters, even in the midst of their risky decisions and rough moments, were so easy to relate to in so many ways. What I especially loved about this book was that the beginning of it focused almost mainly on the romance, and was so good that you didn't miss the action, even though you knew danger was right around the corner. It was about Roman and Karine, the issues they were facing between each other and within themselves, figuring out what marriage meant for them of both, and realizing they couldn't be without one another. But life had other plans. So then the action came, and IT SHOWED UP WITH A BANG! I was screaming...Screaming when things were going down. Probably the last thirty percent of the book had my heart racing. I couldn't turn the pages fast enough. And the ending was glorious. Just what I needed it to be. This book and trilogy was amazing, from start to finish. Getting to see old friends, making new ones, sadly losing some friends along the way. Roman and Karine was an epic love story that was different, and just right for them....more
Ahhhh. Every time this was asked, my heart bleed a little more. This story pulls at your emotions for many different reasons, Karine try"You promise?"
Ahhhh. Every time this was asked, my heart bleed a little more. This story pulls at your emotions for many different reasons, Karine trying to get to the root of her mental state, the relationship between Roman and Karine blossoming into something neither of them ever expected, and the heartbreaking truths that were revealed. The danger of Dina and everything going on back in Chicago had me so worried throughout the story. And when things came to a head, I was SCREAMING as I quickly turned the pages, hoping things would be okay. The way BK writes about Karine's mental illness in this book, in this series, is just amazing. The thoughts that go through her mind, the confusion, the fear, the distrust she tries to fight against. The way it affects every area of her life. And when the reasons behind it are revealed, it's enough to make you cry. Loved the ending and cannot wait for the next book. ...more
This book blew me away. I was already excited going into it because I was going to be reacquainted with my favorite Russians, but this story took me oThis book blew me away. I was already excited going into it because I was going to be reacquainted with my favorite Russians, but this story took me on a wild ride that I did not want to end. Roman was out of control and ended up getting himself sent to Chicago, where he should have just laid low, did what he had to do, and gone back to NY. But Roman was never the type to do as he was told. Especially not when he meets a girl like Karine. Karine was an absolute mystery. You know that she's one hundred percent off limits, but also that something is...off, wrong with her situation. But I never, EVER saw the twist that got thrown into this story coming. I thought I had it figured out, but the truth left my mouth hanging open in shock. Neither of them is supposed to, or allowed to, have an interest in the other, which of course means when they do notice each other, all hell breaks loose. This book was interesting from start to finish and I cannot wait for the next part of the story....more
Loved seeing Diego all grown up, seeing where life had taken him, as well as his older siblings. I was especially interested to see how he felt about Loved seeing Diego all grown up, seeing where life had taken him, as well as his older siblings. I was especially interested to see how he felt about certain events in his life. I was glad to see him making the decisions that were best for him, even if others didn't agree. Luv, which I adore her name, was so interesting. I want to know her backstory so bad. A great addition to the rest of the series....more
Always wanted to know more about Kolya and this did not let me down. I loved getting inside his head, learning what made him into the man he was, and Always wanted to know more about Kolya and this did not let me down. I loved getting inside his head, learning what made him into the man he was, and seeing him be different for the one person he felt deserved the change. Maya, dealt a bad hand, or really a bad family, in life, she was used to being unloved, overlooked. But from the moment Kolya set his eyes on her, she was his and I was LOVINGGGG it. She loved Kolya just the way he was and he loved her beyond even his own understanding. He sacrificed so much for her and she was always right by his side, showing him over and over that they were worth the fight they had to put up to be together. There was lots of action and people I DESPERATELY wanted to see mangled and dead. Loved this book....more
I love this. LOVE. Their story, so far, is all about timing. Their lives collide at the most unexpected time. But still the chemistry is there, the heI love this. LOVE. Their story, so far, is all about timing. Their lives collide at the most unexpected time. But still the chemistry is there, the heat is there, and they go with it. But life won't let it be that easy on them. I can already tell from this peek into their story that it's gonna be a crazy ride. And have me smiling, a lot. Because that's already what this book did for me. I thought I couldn't get any more excited about Pink than I already was from hearing about him in other books. I was wrong. I want to know everythingggg....more
Andino and Haven are one of my all-time favorite couples, so I was so excited to get to read more of them. I love seeing them still be so in love, howAndino and Haven are one of my all-time favorite couples, so I was so excited to get to read more of them. I love seeing them still be so in love, how Andino is with the kids, but still seeing him be the man that he was made to be. Haven, rocking those tattoos and still realizing no other woman could have stood by Andino's side quite like her. Got a dose of action, because come on, Andino is the boss. And a dose of sexy. Loved this addition to their story....more
Cory was the wild child I was looking forward to getting to know and he did not disappoint. Covered in tattoos, clad in leather, with his give-no-f**kCory was the wild child I was looking forward to getting to know and he did not disappoint. Covered in tattoos, clad in leather, with his give-no-f**ks attitude. He was everything Della needed, even if she couldn't see it at first. The way they met was intense, full of passion, and their relationship followed the same track. The unexpected arising again and again. And when I say unexpected, I mean things I never saw coming, betrayals I wanted to rage about, and secrets getting exposed. There was a good amount of suspense, action, mystery, and sweet, sweet revenge. And of course because it's BK, and she is the ripper of hearts, there were tears. There was heartache, and getting to witness the piecing back together of who someone was, even if some parts had to become brand new. Cory and Della were absolutely made for each other. Their crazy perfect for one another, their attitudes turning the other one. Which, fanning myself, they were hot together, their chemistry clear from the very start. But all that grew to a love and loyalty that came alive on the pages. And of course, I loved catching up with the Outfit and getting to see some of the characters from previous books. Another great read form this author....more
This book was just what I needed to bring me back into John and Siena's world. Into their romance that is as unique as it is genuine. And seeing them This book was just what I needed to bring me back into John and Siena's world. Into their romance that is as unique as it is genuine. And seeing them still be so...there for each other, be the one the other leans on through everything, made me smile to be wrapped up in their love again. The author was able to beautifully weave other characters from different stories into the book so effortlessly. And I got to feel that old Marcello family love, which never, ever gets old. There were ups and downs, and through it all, John and Siena's love sustained them, bettered them. This book was exactly what I wanted it to be and more....more
The long awaited Marcus did not let me down in any way. He was everything. A little Gian, but still very much his own man, and stepping into the role The long awaited Marcus did not let me down in any way. He was everything. A little Gian, but still very much his own man, and stepping into the role he was born for. But along with the crown came all it's responsibility and trouble. I loved him so much. The way he took care of his family, that he took no disrespect from anyone without answering it in a way that made it clear he was not to be messed with. And when it came to Cella, she was everything he wanted, so he gave her everything that she needed. Cella, heartbroken, but still strong. Trying not to stay in the past, but also a little afraid to move on. Could she let someone in her heart again, into her daughter's life? The part I liked most about her was that her reactions, her thoughts, her pain was so easy to relate to. She wanted to protect herself and her daughter from one more person being taken from them, but she also had this amazing man saying and doing all the right things. I let myself get too comfortable in the romance and then the action came and slapped me in the face. But like I said, Marcus was not to be trifled with, and that was made perfectly clear before the book was finished. I loved seeing things from Gian and Cara's story in this book, and also how Marcus felt about this role that had always been his, but had now became a lot more real. Seeing the other Guzzi men and what was going on in their lives a few years later was the icing on the cake. This book, this series, was everything....more
I could not go to sleep until I'd finished this book, until I'd reached the last page and got off this emotional rollercoaster. This book was amazing.I could not go to sleep until I'd finished this book, until I'd reached the last page and got off this emotional rollercoaster. This book was amazing. It kept me on the edge of my seat. Would Vanna be able to take the Guzzis down? Would Bene realize what was going on? One thing was certain, hearts would break, and mine definitely did. Bene was going through so much, with his family, the mafia, his own internal battles. I loved him, his cockiness, his sweet words to Vanna, his loyalty to both his family and his heart. Vanna, you want to be mad at what she's doing, the secrets, the lies, but knowing the reason behind them all makes that really hard. Vanna had so much going on, so many people trying to control her, change her, and then here was Bene, a man she should hate, but who adored her just the way she was and showed her another way to live. But the truth always, always comes out, doesn't it? There wasn't a moment where I felt comfortable enough to relax, because I knew, I knew everything was going to explode and the blood and gore would get on everyone. And even knowing this, I was still shocked at what happened, the way truths were revealed. The way things were exposed and hatred started to mix with love. It was glorious. The ending was everything I needed to piece my heart back together again. Cannot wait for Marcus' book....more
Ahhhh these two. They were so perfect for each other. August a planner, while Beni was wild. Her focusing on her career, while Beni was just settling Ahhhh these two. They were so perfect for each other. August a planner, while Beni was wild. Her focusing on her career, while Beni was just settling down in what he needed to be doing. Both far from home, staying in Chicago and finding each other across a club. Their chemistry was sizzling from the moment they locked eyes. They both had a lot going on, decisions to be made, and yet all they wanted to do was spend time with each other, to get just a little more of one another. The action was good, I was wondering who wasn't to be trusted, and what the consequences would be from the fall-out of the truth being revealed. But I was completely unprepared for what went down a.k.a. the way my heart got ripped from my chest. I loved the romance, not just the steamy parts (and boy were they hot), but also the bond they built, the connection they had. Their smiles that were just for each other, the way Beni would surprise her, and the way they supported one another, and gave each other space to work through things on their own. I cannot wait for the next Guzzi book....more
I felt so many emotions while reading this book, cried 5x, and was sitting on the edge of my seat practically the whole book. I could not read fast enI felt so many emotions while reading this book, cried 5x, and was sitting on the edge of my seat practically the whole book. I could not read fast enough. I could not stop the hope that built in me that everything would work out, even as my dread that everything was going to go up in flames was constant. The romance, the relationship Chris and Valeria were able to build was amazing. Every moment they stole, everytime their eyes met each other's across a room, I both loved and feared it. Their passion came off the pages. The lengths they were both willing to go to for freedom, for the chance to be together was everything. The ending made me gasp so loudly that my kids were asking if I was okay. No, I was not. My heart was in my throat and my hand was covering my mouth as my eyes flew across the pages. The action, the suspense of it all made it so I absolutely could not put the book down until I'd finished the story. Amazing book from the first page to the last....more
I loved catching up with these characters, especially in such a beautiful setting. They took a break from their hectic lives to be with just each otheI loved catching up with these characters, especially in such a beautiful setting. They took a break from their hectic lives to be with just each other, loving on one another and enjoying the silence of Bali. There were little sneak peeks into other characters' lives as well. There was a little work thrown in here and there, as responsibilities are never too far away. Just seeing Lucia and Ren still so in love with each other was the absolute best....more
This was such a recurring thought while I read this book. Did people forget what his last name was? Did they forget who raSTOP UNDERESTIMATING MICHEL!
This was such a recurring thought while I read this book. Did people forget what his last name was? Did they forget who raised this man? That viciousness and sharp thinking were ingrained in him just as much as respect, honor, and loyalty? I loved Michel. He may not have followed in the footsteps of other men in his family, but he was very much a Marcello. That confidence, that wicked tongue, the way he loved hard and didn't care what anyone else thought about his choices. I liked that he struck out on his own path, wanted to do something different, and yet still held onto many of the traits of Cosa Nostra. Plus even not being a made man, he still managed to find plenty of trouble far from New York, but Lord, the trouble was so worth it. I loved Gabbie. She was strong, smart, knew what she wanted and got it, no matter what anyone else had to say. And when someone got in the way, neither she nor Michel was going to stand for that. And when they came together... it melted the pages. They were perfect for each other. There was so much action, twists and turns, surprises, and just everything I needed in this book. Michel trying to figure out what was underneath all the violence in Detroit had me reading with sleepy eyes, not wanting to put the book down to even sleep. Michel and Gabbie both made decisions I didn't think they would, but I loved them even more for their choices because when it came to their love, I was rooting for whatever got them together again. The ending had tears coming to my eyes, because there was yet another twist I did not seeing coming and it warmed my heart....more