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Ivanov Crime Family #1
Savage Vow
I took her innocence as payment.
She was far too young and naïve to be betrothed to a monster like me.
I would bring only pain and darkness into her sheltered world.
That’s why she ran.
I should’ve just let her go…
She never asked to marry into a powerful Russian mafia family.
None of this was her choice.
Unfortunately for her, I don’t care.
I own her… and after three years of searching… I’ve found her.
My runaway bride was about to learn disobedience has consequences… punishing ones.
Having her in my arms and under my control had become an obsession.
Nothing was going to keep me from claiming her before the eyes of God and man.
She’s finally mine now… and I’m never letting her go.
Special Preorder price of $.99c only available for a limited time.
She was far too young and naïve to be betrothed to a monster like me.
I would bring only pain and darkness into her sheltered world.
That’s why she ran.
I should’ve just let her go…
She never asked to marry into a powerful Russian mafia family.
None of this was her choice.
Unfortunately for her, I don’t care.
I own her… and after three years of searching… I’ve found her.
My runaway bride was about to learn disobedience has consequences… punishing ones.
Having her in my arms and under my control had become an obsession.
Nothing was going to keep me from claiming her before the eyes of God and man.
She’s finally mine now… and I’m never letting her go.
Special Preorder price of $.99c only available for a limited time.
299 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 15, 2021
3,048 people are currently reading
4,902 people want to read
About the author
Zoe Blake
86 books2,981 followersZoe Blake is the USA Today Bestselling Author of the romantic suspense saga The Cavalieri Billionaire Legacy inspired by her own heritage as well as her obsession with jewelry, travel, and the salacious gossip of history’s most infamous families.
She delights in writing Dark Romance books filled with overly possessive billionaires, taboo scenes, and unexpected twists. She usually spends her ill-gotten gains on martinis, vacations, and red lipstick.
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/zoeblakebooks/
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/zoeblakebooks/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@zoeblakebooks
She delights in writing Dark Romance books filled with overly possessive billionaires, taboo scenes, and unexpected twists. She usually spends her ill-gotten gains on martinis, vacations, and red lipstick.
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/zoeblakebooks/
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/zoeblakebooks/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@zoeblakebooks
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 638 reviews
January 13, 2021
***4.5 STARS***
“If I had lost you last night, I wouldn’t have gone on living. You are my salvation. I need to see the beauty in the world through your eyes or there is no point. Don’t you understand? You are the only light in my unrelentingly dark world.”
Samara learns that she has been promised to Gregor in an arranged Russian mafia marriage. Gregor is Samara’s best friend’s brother and she has always feared him because he is so dark and dangerous. Samara is determined she will not go through with this marriage and decides to run away.
Gregor has taken over his family’s crime syndicate and although he has the wealth, he needs the name to bring respectability to his family. That is where Samara comes in. She has the name plus once he sees her for the first time in years he knows he wants her.
Samara and Gregor are like fire and ice. Samara cannot stand Gregor and she pulls and Gregor pulls back even harder. They are explosive together and no matter how many “punishments” Gregor doles out she refuses to submit. Gregor is the epitome of the anti-hero. He is rough, raw and demanding. Alpha seems tame in describing him. Possessive and over the top he is.
This was such a good book. Well written and fast paced. It is VERY dark and not for everyone. Triggers galore including violence, dub con and BDSM. I highly recommend to my dark readers.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
“If I had lost you last night, I wouldn’t have gone on living. You are my salvation. I need to see the beauty in the world through your eyes or there is no point. Don’t you understand? You are the only light in my unrelentingly dark world.”
Samara learns that she has been promised to Gregor in an arranged Russian mafia marriage. Gregor is Samara’s best friend’s brother and she has always feared him because he is so dark and dangerous. Samara is determined she will not go through with this marriage and decides to run away.
Gregor has taken over his family’s crime syndicate and although he has the wealth, he needs the name to bring respectability to his family. That is where Samara comes in. She has the name plus once he sees her for the first time in years he knows he wants her.
Samara and Gregor are like fire and ice. Samara cannot stand Gregor and she pulls and Gregor pulls back even harder. They are explosive together and no matter how many “punishments” Gregor doles out she refuses to submit. Gregor is the epitome of the anti-hero. He is rough, raw and demanding. Alpha seems tame in describing him. Possessive and over the top he is.
This was such a good book. Well written and fast paced. It is VERY dark and not for everyone. Triggers galore including violence, dub con and BDSM. I highly recommend to my dark readers.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 21, 2021
3.5 Russian Roulette Stars ⭐
I'm on board with rough sex, a little dub con if both parties are into it. Where I'm not convinced is when a virgin is manhandled and then quickly gets converted. I don't buy it and it makes me uncomfortable. Forced blow jobs and hardcore spankings don't turn me on. I need a serving of foreplay to sweeten up the honeypot.
So to start at the beginning, Samara Federov has been sold off like a pawn by a father who has amassed a lot of debt. But as an 18 year old aspiring artist, the last thing she wants is her future cut short by marriage. Especially to a man ruthless enough to give you chills.
"You are lucky you are still innocent or I would have had to kill the man who had robbed me of what was rightfully mine."
I pulled my finger free and slipped it inside my mouth, tasting her.
So with little choice she flees. Three years of freedom until her 'fiance' is back to collect what he has been promised.
This Russian arranged marriage was purely a means of joining two family names. However, from the initial meeting with Samara, Gregor instinctively knew he wanted more from this girl. So how dare she run...
With each lash of my belt and touch of my hand, I would watch as those striking emerald eyes of hers flashed with flecks of gold as I awakened her to the pleasure had through pain and punishment.
Samara quickly learns what disobeying Gregor brings. Fortunately he enjoys balancing pain with pleasure. There is no reasoning with him. He wants her now more than ever, and has every intention of wedding her.
Samara was awesome as a character. With her rockabilly style, and penchant for red lipstick, she was a breath of fresh air. As for Gregor, there is no denying he was one gorgeous tatted hardass. He just wasn't very lovable.
Savage Vow wasn't a complete disappointment. Although I spent the first 50% of the story despising Gregor Ivanov and wanting to cut off his balls, it picked up momentum in the second half. It was the moment Gregor realised that his fucked up ideals wasn't getting the desired effect, and changed his tactic. Here's a titbit, bullying is for narrow minded cowardly fuckers and will never be attractive. Luckily you saw the light Gregor!
She probably thinks I'm a Neanderthal who wants a woman chained to a stove.
Well I'm not.
Chained to my bed...that was different.
For readers who enjoy darker reads with a side of forced orgasms, I found you a good one! 💙
I'm on board with rough sex, a little dub con if both parties are into it. Where I'm not convinced is when a virgin is manhandled and then quickly gets converted. I don't buy it and it makes me uncomfortable. Forced blow jobs and hardcore spankings don't turn me on. I need a serving of foreplay to sweeten up the honeypot.
So to start at the beginning, Samara Federov has been sold off like a pawn by a father who has amassed a lot of debt. But as an 18 year old aspiring artist, the last thing she wants is her future cut short by marriage. Especially to a man ruthless enough to give you chills.
"You are lucky you are still innocent or I would have had to kill the man who had robbed me of what was rightfully mine."
I pulled my finger free and slipped it inside my mouth, tasting her.
So with little choice she flees. Three years of freedom until her 'fiance' is back to collect what he has been promised.
This Russian arranged marriage was purely a means of joining two family names. However, from the initial meeting with Samara, Gregor instinctively knew he wanted more from this girl. So how dare she run...
With each lash of my belt and touch of my hand, I would watch as those striking emerald eyes of hers flashed with flecks of gold as I awakened her to the pleasure had through pain and punishment.
Samara quickly learns what disobeying Gregor brings. Fortunately he enjoys balancing pain with pleasure. There is no reasoning with him. He wants her now more than ever, and has every intention of wedding her.
Samara was awesome as a character. With her rockabilly style, and penchant for red lipstick, she was a breath of fresh air. As for Gregor, there is no denying he was one gorgeous tatted hardass. He just wasn't very lovable.
Savage Vow wasn't a complete disappointment. Although I spent the first 50% of the story despising Gregor Ivanov and wanting to cut off his balls, it picked up momentum in the second half. It was the moment Gregor realised that his fucked up ideals wasn't getting the desired effect, and changed his tactic. Here's a titbit, bullying is for narrow minded cowardly fuckers and will never be attractive. Luckily you saw the light Gregor!
She probably thinks I'm a Neanderthal who wants a woman chained to a stove.
Well I'm not.
Chained to my bed...that was different.
For readers who enjoy darker reads with a side of forced orgasms, I found you a good one! 💙
January 3, 2021
I got this baby as a ARC! And I dove into this baby full on. Its darkish and dirty and 🔥 and they do have this Dub-conish type of vibes so be warned!!
Now many have read Zoes books so you'll know how she writes her dark romance books. Our Hero is rough tough takes no shit and very "Dom" to his woman.
Samara (18 at the start) hasn't seen Gregor since he left 5 years ago so when he's at his sisters 18th bday party he saves her from being sexual assaulted by her then boyfriend. And informs her shes his they are to be married thanks to family. Samara and her group of friends make a plan 2 of them are running away and trying to stay low hoping they would forget them.
And it works for 3 years Gregor has not seen his future wife since shes covering her tracks up pretty well. But she slipped and hes coming for whats his.
Their relationship is very dom/sub and they both need to learn to trust one another and Samara does push and poke the bear she claws and few times and also gives into Gregor.
I had a love/hate relationship with samara i wish she clawed more and try to make Gregor work harder but she was a good friend and sassy which I love, as for Gregor.. when you first meet that man he's hot/cold with his mood i was so glad he never gave up looking for his woman. And he can be a jerk/asshole so be warned lol I do wish he would explain to Samara some of his reasons why he did what he did. But I do love his ass 🤣🤣🤣
Also his dirty mouth 💦💦
Now the Epilogue is of Yelena the friend and her story with Gregor brother and their story.
Low angst, No ow drama and Om drama(ex bf) no cheating, secondary characters, Drama, sexy times, virgin gal and no manwhore
Recommend- yes/maybe
Cover-⭐⭐⭐⭐
Heat level-🌶🌶🌶🌶
Slow-instaburn
Older/younger couple
21H/33H
Push away from h
Seperation 3 years
Dub-conish
Violence
Masochism kink
Anal play/sex
Breath play
Physical abuse (h from her dad)
Almost sexual assaulted
Punishments/Spankings
No condom
Hea
Epilogue
Now many have read Zoes books so you'll know how she writes her dark romance books. Our Hero is rough tough takes no shit and very "Dom" to his woman.
Samara (18 at the start) hasn't seen Gregor since he left 5 years ago so when he's at his sisters 18th bday party he saves her from being sexual assaulted by her then boyfriend. And informs her shes his they are to be married thanks to family. Samara and her group of friends make a plan 2 of them are running away and trying to stay low hoping they would forget them.
And it works for 3 years Gregor has not seen his future wife since shes covering her tracks up pretty well. But she slipped and hes coming for whats his.
Their relationship is very dom/sub and they both need to learn to trust one another and Samara does push and poke the bear she claws and few times and also gives into Gregor.
I had a love/hate relationship with samara i wish she clawed more and try to make Gregor work harder but she was a good friend and sassy which I love, as for Gregor.. when you first meet that man he's hot/cold with his mood i was so glad he never gave up looking for his woman. And he can be a jerk/asshole so be warned lol I do wish he would explain to Samara some of his reasons why he did what he did. But I do love his ass 🤣🤣🤣
Also his dirty mouth 💦💦
Now the Epilogue is of Yelena the friend and her story with Gregor brother and their story.
Low angst, No ow drama and Om drama(ex bf) no cheating, secondary characters, Drama, sexy times, virgin gal and no manwhore
Recommend- yes/maybe
Cover-⭐⭐⭐⭐
Heat level-🌶🌶🌶🌶
Slow-instaburn
Older/younger couple
21H/33H
Push away from h
Seperation 3 years
Dub-conish
Violence
Masochism kink
Anal play/sex
Breath play
Physical abuse (h from her dad)
Almost sexual assaulted
Punishments/Spankings
No condom
Hea
Epilogue
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 3, 2021
I can’t believe this!! WTF I JUST READ!! what is the meaning of please don’t do this and alpha male still have sex that’s called RAPE not LOVE. I think this book has made that concept blurr. All most all the lines are same as icious oath bcz i read that first. WHAT IS WITH SPANKING AND ZOE BLAKE BOOKS??? All the sex is forced in this book so i skip most of them and again there is no plot. So i don’t have much more to say about this.
January 24, 2021
3 😮😮😮⭐️s
Mixed feelings for this darkish mafia story. There were some parts that I liked but many more that I didn’t!
The heroine is sold to the hero by her father, she had a crush on him when she was younger but she fears him also and she runs away.
I like aggressive and alphaholes heroes but the specific one took it to the... lowest level. His punishing and abusing behaviour was more than extreme.
Depth was not adequate, their love was not convincing, the heroine was tiring with all this push and pull from her side, and the ending was rushed.
Mixed feelings for this darkish mafia story. There were some parts that I liked but many more that I didn’t!
The heroine is sold to the hero by her father, she had a crush on him when she was younger but she fears him also and she runs away.
I like aggressive and alphaholes heroes but the specific one took it to the... lowest level. His punishing and abusing behaviour was more than extreme.
Depth was not adequate, their love was not convincing, the heroine was tiring with all this push and pull from her side, and the ending was rushed.
February 10, 2025
Classic arranged marriage but with a much darker mafia undertone 🩸 the reread didn’t hit the same but maybe because Zoe has so many better stories out there!
This book had a fast pace and I just consumed it in a few hours. Big insta-love trope with a virginity check at 8% 👀 I wished there was a but more build up to their story to add depth to some of the characters.
Samara & Gregor’s story is definitely darker than most mafia books with many dub/non con moments. I found Gregor to be very morally grey & arguably a bit of an asshole. I guess I was just missing a bit of romance in the ‘dark romance’.
This book had a fast pace and I just consumed it in a few hours. Big insta-love trope with a virginity check at 8% 👀 I wished there was a but more build up to their story to add depth to some of the characters.
Samara & Gregor’s story is definitely darker than most mafia books with many dub/non con moments. I found Gregor to be very morally grey & arguably a bit of an asshole. I guess I was just missing a bit of romance in the ‘dark romance’.
January 15, 2021
This is everything I love in a romance. It was short, sweet and dirty (in the best ways).
Zoe Blake is a new to me author and I wasn’t disappointed with Savage Vow. The book isn’t for everyone but for those that like an overbearing, overprotective, domineering Alpha then this book is for you. The storyline of falling for my best friends brother and an arranged marriage isn’t anything new but I enjoyed reading the authors POV on both genres.
Gregor is the head of his family and in order to legitimize the name he must marry. Unfortunately, his intended decided to run. Samara is feisty. I liked her independent nature and her strong will although I was anxious for Gregor to find her.
For me these two didn’t disappoint. Gregor was demanding and a bit kinky but he also showed his sweeter side with Samara. The sex scenes were hot and kept me reading. Samara held off as long as she could but it’s hard to stop loving your first love.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
Zoe Blake is a new to me author and I wasn’t disappointed with Savage Vow. The book isn’t for everyone but for those that like an overbearing, overprotective, domineering Alpha then this book is for you. The storyline of falling for my best friends brother and an arranged marriage isn’t anything new but I enjoyed reading the authors POV on both genres.
Gregor is the head of his family and in order to legitimize the name he must marry. Unfortunately, his intended decided to run. Samara is feisty. I liked her independent nature and her strong will although I was anxious for Gregor to find her.
For me these two didn’t disappoint. Gregor was demanding and a bit kinky but he also showed his sweeter side with Samara. The sex scenes were hot and kept me reading. Samara held off as long as she could but it’s hard to stop loving your first love.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
January 30, 2021
3.5 Stars
This was pretty hot, not as good as Sweet Cruelty though and it mainly loses a star because the h was such a dumb ass. Honestly she was TSTL and such a petulant brat that when he punished her I was like "good" 😂
I dunno what it says about me but I'm so onboard with humiliation and all the kinky fuckery in this book 🤷 you like what you like I guess!
Interested in the other books in this series in the hopes the h's in them have a few more brain cells and less tantrums....oh and don't live on a diet of McDonalds like they are 13 years old and allergic to vegetables, dunno why that pissed me off but it did haha.
This was pretty hot, not as good as Sweet Cruelty though and it mainly loses a star because the h was such a dumb ass. Honestly she was TSTL and such a petulant brat that when he punished her I was like "good" 😂
I dunno what it says about me but I'm so onboard with humiliation and all the kinky fuckery in this book 🤷 you like what you like I guess!
Interested in the other books in this series in the hopes the h's in them have a few more brain cells and less tantrums....oh and don't live on a diet of McDonalds like they are 13 years old and allergic to vegetables, dunno why that pissed me off but it did haha.
January 17, 2021
Tamer than a usual Zoe Blake but still 4,5 stars. She is really good writer.
April 12, 2021
I don’t know, I just didn’t enjoy it as much. Maybe because I was expecting more, after having read so many romance novels with similar tropes, sometimes some authors pull it off really well while this one just felt bland and I did not understand or see any growth in character in either the h or H.
Safety: safe, hero only lover. Push and pull, seduced by the “sex”, H punished the h a bit too much using both hand and belt
Safety: safe, hero only lover. Push and pull, seduced by the “sex”, H punished the h a bit too much using both hand and belt
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 10, 2024
This is pretty much just one long sexual assault, abuse, rape scene with the characters undergoing a miraculous personality change that takes them from hate to "love" near the end. I never felt the connection between the characters, and in fact, the sexual assaults, whippings, forced sodomy, sexual humiliation, degrading, and demeaning treatment made me want to throw up (literally not figuratively). The only plot aspect that effort was expended upon to detail were the abuse, sexual assault and rape scenes. I stayed furious with the male lead throughout this and thought he deserved a life stretch on death row, not a romantic interlude and marriage. There was so little plotline outside the abuse, I got so mentally and emotionally exhausted from this I was actually horrified and depressed at 88% and didn't care how it ended. I just couldn't hang any more. For a person who reads 2 to 4 books a day, I couldn't even read anything following this -- it actually destroyed my desire to pick up another book, afraid of getting something like this again.
So, the words that describe the actions taken in this are inadequate and the juxtaposition between the sickeningly continual systematic and premeditated violent abuse, gaslighting, complete and utter lack of respect, humiliation and degradation, to the extremely sudden syrupy and unbelievable declarations of "love" with no real character development or relationship interaction outside of a few very brief conversations to lead up to it, made this story grotesque. The entire relationship was so clearly NON-CONSENSUAL that what Gregor does to Samara is NOT love, it is ownership of a "thing," a possession that a sociopath's pride and narcissism will not allow to escape. The entire story seems to be spent on the torture and rape in order to groom a sexually inexperienced woman to his twisted sexual tastes -- think Patty Hearst if you know that history at all, if not, look it up -- it was so severe it became required textbook reading for psychology, sociology, legal and law enforcement. A person who loved another could never treat their partner like filth the way Gregor does to Samara. With the glorification in this and stories like it of stalking, kidnapping, sexual assault, rape, and just about every other sort of abuse, no wonder males nation wide think it is alright to rape and abuse women when acts like these (especially a complete lack of consent with the trope excuse, "the mouth/mind say 'no' and the body is saying 'yes'") are equated to "love" and "protection." It is laughable really; I'm sure this is another one Brock Turner is probably a fan of.
There was no author's note trigger content warnings (which would probably be paltry and ridiculously inadequate), so let me unload the facts for you:
Consent: NO
Rape content: YES, repeatedly
Other Sexual Assault content: YES -- every sexual encounter
Forcible Sodomy: YES
Physical abuse: YES, sometimes in the extreme
Emotional abuse: YES
Mental abuse: YES
Crimes against humanity: YES
Kidnapping/False Imprisonment: YES
Abusive Sexual Grooming: YES
Sexual degradation: YES
Sexual and other targeted humiliation: YES
Extreme violence and gore: moderate amount
Murder: YES
Cheating: No
So, the words that describe the actions taken in this are inadequate and the juxtaposition between the sickeningly continual systematic and premeditated violent abuse, gaslighting, complete and utter lack of respect, humiliation and degradation, to the extremely sudden syrupy and unbelievable declarations of "love" with no real character development or relationship interaction outside of a few very brief conversations to lead up to it, made this story grotesque. The entire relationship was so clearly NON-CONSENSUAL that what Gregor does to Samara is NOT love, it is ownership of a "thing," a possession that a sociopath's pride and narcissism will not allow to escape. The entire story seems to be spent on the torture and rape in order to groom a sexually inexperienced woman to his twisted sexual tastes -- think Patty Hearst if you know that history at all, if not, look it up -- it was so severe it became required textbook reading for psychology, sociology, legal and law enforcement. A person who loved another could never treat their partner like filth the way Gregor does to Samara. With the glorification in this and stories like it of stalking, kidnapping, sexual assault, rape, and just about every other sort of abuse, no wonder males nation wide think it is alright to rape and abuse women when acts like these (especially a complete lack of consent with the trope excuse, "the mouth/mind say 'no' and the body is saying 'yes'") are equated to "love" and "protection." It is laughable really; I'm sure this is another one Brock Turner is probably a fan of.
There was no author's note trigger content warnings (which would probably be paltry and ridiculously inadequate), so let me unload the facts for you:
Consent: NO
Rape content: YES, repeatedly
Other Sexual Assault content: YES -- every sexual encounter
Forcible Sodomy: YES
Physical abuse: YES, sometimes in the extreme
Emotional abuse: YES
Mental abuse: YES
Crimes against humanity: YES
Kidnapping/False Imprisonment: YES
Abusive Sexual Grooming: YES
Sexual degradation: YES
Sexual and other targeted humiliation: YES
Extreme violence and gore: moderate amount
Murder: YES
Cheating: No
January 4, 2021
ALL MY REVIEWS CAN BE FOUND ON MY BLOG: ABSTRACT BOOKS
Star Rating : 4 Stars
POV : Dual
Cliffhanger : No , HEA included
Hero : Gregor Ivanov - Ruthless , Very Dominant , Possessive and he basically had all the qualities that I want in a man lol 🤣
Heroine : Samara Federov - Sassy , Innocent and Perfect for Gregor
Pace of the story :Fast
Angst Rating :3/10
Heat Rating :9/10
Triggers Involved : Dub Con scenes
Plot Summary : Samara has always been entranced with her best friend's older brother Gregor. For years she has wanted him but he has scared her too. Now after 5 years she is to see him for the first time . But things are different now.
Gregor knows that Samara thinks he never noticed her. But she is the only thing he wants. Now he has his chance to possess her and there was no way he was letting her go. If he had to carry her screaming ass to the altar then so be it. She was his.
Overall Opinion : The storyline was pretty plain and there were no major plot twists but the thing that I love the most about this author are her steamy scenes. I don't think I have ever read any author who writes steamy scenes as good as this one!! She is just phenomenal and I can't even tell you guys how quickly I finished this book. I have read other stories by this author too , so it felt kind of repetitive to me with the storyline but it was an overall amazing book. I was hooked and couldn't stop reading until I was finished! One more thing was that their were certain parts of the story where I thought that the hero needed to grovel more , but I was somewhat satisfied with his reasons. The main word being 'somewhat' . Not fully satisfied.
Final Verdict :
Phenomenal Steamy Scenes
Storyline was moderate good
No major plot twists
Amazing chemistry between the main characters
HEA included
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February 3, 2021
Ok read, plot was nothing new. Heroine is sold to Hero, she runs away, he chases, heroine resists but gives in. Cue boredom, lost interest ........ zzz..... the end!
January 6, 2023
Y'all this made my toes curl, my lip sweat, and a heart palpitations!
Great storyline! Love how the girls stayed on the run successfully for 3 years! I mean that is bad ass. They took off. With no fear. Smart. Gritty. But when Gregor catches her .... I want him to catch me!!!!
🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Want to get sweaty?! Get this book!
Happy reading,
DD 🥂
Great storyline! Love how the girls stayed on the run successfully for 3 years! I mean that is bad ass. They took off. With no fear. Smart. Gritty. But when Gregor catches her .... I want him to catch me!!!!
🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Want to get sweaty?! Get this book!
Happy reading,
DD 🥂
January 9, 2021
No one can know what is going on behind closed doors... The author opens the doors to the glamorous world of the privileged and powerful... Outside glamor and generosity, every perk of being rich on display… inside packed flames that try to swallow even the little humanity that remained. Sometimes even the noblest families hide darkness and secrets that can embarrass the devil himself.....
On the threshold of the beginning of a new chapter, young Samara faces the most painful situation in her life ... sold, given to a man she fears. As if she were a commodity, not a human being. The only way out is to run away, but will she be able to hide from the monster that has the power to destroy her with just one glance ... What will happen when the gaze is replaced by touch and all her sanity is lost?
And slowly the monster transforms into a prince. Great love is born and we get a perfect love story, right? Sorry, but that isn’t the case here. This is no ordinary love story. This is a dark and cold portrayal of human alienation, harsh criticism of society, and the search for warmth and acceptance. A story that will make you angry with its display of twisted values. This is a portrait of a woman who is considered an object, a woman whose world is being shattered, a woman who is controlled by her obsessive parents in every way.
The novel abounds with several disturbing scenes that stick to the reader's brain and stay there for a long time. It abounds in numerous artistic remarks, thought processes, and sexually perverted details that are not intended to ignite flames at all - but rather to wreak havoc and shock, at least that is how I felt.
Samara Federov can only express her emotions through her painting. She felt no pain until Gregor Ivanov entered her life. Torn between her dominant parents, the dark desires hidden deep inside her, and the desperate need to be respected as a person, she tries to catch the reins of her life and runs away. And her whole personality is somehow contradictory in itself. On the one hand, she is a calm and withdrawn artistic soul, on the other hand, an adventurer who is not afraid to oppose the powerful mafia boss and escape. Gregor Ivanov is a ruthless man who without any hesitation takes what he wants and has no regard for others. And honestly, no matter how hard I tried to find the light in him, I somehow failed. His treatment of heroine was simply repulsive, as was his way of thinking. Yes, it must be admitted that the chemistry between them is quite explosive, but what I personally lacked was a slightly deeper emotional connection. Somehow the part with grand love came to me too fast and wasn’t sufficiently elaborated. Also, I believe that a deeper study of Russian culture and family life, as well as the Orthodox believes would contribute to a better elaboration of the overall family relationships in the book, because some of the twists and turns seemed slightly far-fetched.
This book captured me and upset me. It made me think that everyone around us has their hidden side that they skillfully hide behind the mask placed on their face. A book that is not for everyone's taste and that will definitely provoke various emotions.
On the threshold of the beginning of a new chapter, young Samara faces the most painful situation in her life ... sold, given to a man she fears. As if she were a commodity, not a human being. The only way out is to run away, but will she be able to hide from the monster that has the power to destroy her with just one glance ... What will happen when the gaze is replaced by touch and all her sanity is lost?
And slowly the monster transforms into a prince. Great love is born and we get a perfect love story, right? Sorry, but that isn’t the case here. This is no ordinary love story. This is a dark and cold portrayal of human alienation, harsh criticism of society, and the search for warmth and acceptance. A story that will make you angry with its display of twisted values. This is a portrait of a woman who is considered an object, a woman whose world is being shattered, a woman who is controlled by her obsessive parents in every way.
The novel abounds with several disturbing scenes that stick to the reader's brain and stay there for a long time. It abounds in numerous artistic remarks, thought processes, and sexually perverted details that are not intended to ignite flames at all - but rather to wreak havoc and shock, at least that is how I felt.
Samara Federov can only express her emotions through her painting. She felt no pain until Gregor Ivanov entered her life. Torn between her dominant parents, the dark desires hidden deep inside her, and the desperate need to be respected as a person, she tries to catch the reins of her life and runs away. And her whole personality is somehow contradictory in itself. On the one hand, she is a calm and withdrawn artistic soul, on the other hand, an adventurer who is not afraid to oppose the powerful mafia boss and escape. Gregor Ivanov is a ruthless man who without any hesitation takes what he wants and has no regard for others. And honestly, no matter how hard I tried to find the light in him, I somehow failed. His treatment of heroine was simply repulsive, as was his way of thinking. Yes, it must be admitted that the chemistry between them is quite explosive, but what I personally lacked was a slightly deeper emotional connection. Somehow the part with grand love came to me too fast and wasn’t sufficiently elaborated. Also, I believe that a deeper study of Russian culture and family life, as well as the Orthodox believes would contribute to a better elaboration of the overall family relationships in the book, because some of the twists and turns seemed slightly far-fetched.
This book captured me and upset me. It made me think that everyone around us has their hidden side that they skillfully hide behind the mask placed on their face. A book that is not for everyone's taste and that will definitely provoke various emotions.
May 15, 2021
Savage Vow was spectacular!
I fell in love with Gregor, his growling, possessive demeanor and the fact the he chased after his betrothed for 3 years made me swoon.
This story had romance and intrigue, chaos and calm, sweet moments and dangerous times. It ticked all the boxes for a great story!
I fell in love with Gregor, his growling, possessive demeanor and the fact the he chased after his betrothed for 3 years made me swoon.
This story had romance and intrigue, chaos and calm, sweet moments and dangerous times. It ticked all the boxes for a great story!
March 12, 2024
TRIGGER WARNING this has noncon/dubcon for most of the relationship, so you've been warned.
Samara (annoying, daughter of Russian bratva family) is sold to the highest bidder, unbeknownst to her, by her father after he squanders all the families money. Gregor Ivanov (Head of Russian bratva family, possessive as f*ck) happens to be Samara's BFFs older brother, and she also had a crush on him in her teens. When she discovers she's supposed to marry him, she goes on the run with one of her BFFs. Jump to 3 years later. Gregor has never stopped looking for his future wife. Even though he didn't expect to want her, their previous encounter got his blood boiling to the point of obsession. When he finally finds her, they battle back and forth for about 100 pages with "you don't own me" and "yes I do". In the end, she ends up loving him, yadda yadda, HEA.
So - I'm more accepting of this book because I love mean Russian bratva men. The sex is decently violent. Def noncon/dubcon involved. I'm a fan, but not everyone is. I was only upset he didn't claim her much sooner.
Book is def too long for my preference. Samara annoyed me and I just got tired of the same old fight they were having. She acted childish way too many times with her foot stomping. Plus, she acts like she's totally unaware of being in the bratva world, despite her family and her BFFs family being heads of crime families. How is she so shocked at this point?
Also, there's no epilogue. Well, there is one, but it's about the characters in the next book. It has nothing to do with Samara and Gregor.
I can't say this is my most favorite, but it's not horrible. I'm giving it a higher rating just because I love violent Russian bratva.
Samara (annoying, daughter of Russian bratva family) is sold to the highest bidder, unbeknownst to her, by her father after he squanders all the families money. Gregor Ivanov (Head of Russian bratva family, possessive as f*ck) happens to be Samara's BFFs older brother, and she also had a crush on him in her teens. When she discovers she's supposed to marry him, she goes on the run with one of her BFFs. Jump to 3 years later. Gregor has never stopped looking for his future wife. Even though he didn't expect to want her, their previous encounter got his blood boiling to the point of obsession. When he finally finds her, they battle back and forth for about 100 pages with "you don't own me" and "yes I do". In the end, she ends up loving him, yadda yadda, HEA.
So - I'm more accepting of this book because I love mean Russian bratva men. The sex is decently violent. Def noncon/dubcon involved. I'm a fan, but not everyone is. I was only upset he didn't claim her much sooner.
Book is def too long for my preference. Samara annoyed me and I just got tired of the same old fight they were having. She acted childish way too many times with her foot stomping. Plus, she acts like she's totally unaware of being in the bratva world, despite her family and her BFFs family being heads of crime families. How is she so shocked at this point?
Also, there's no epilogue. Well, there is one, but it's about the characters in the next book. It has nothing to do with Samara and Gregor.
I can't say this is my most favorite, but it's not horrible. I'm giving it a higher rating just because I love violent Russian bratva.
August 9, 2022
Savage Vow is book 1 in the Ivanov Crime Family and unfortunately a miss for me. I liked Gregor but I disliked Samara. While I did enjoy the fact that she fled for 3 years, and he was unable to find her. When she is forced back it's a mess of intimate scenes and absolutely no connection. The entire book is spent with her trying to escape, making immature decisions and then were supposed to believe they are in love. I'm not sure if I will read book 2 because it's Samar's friend who fled with her and Gregor's brother. I have a feeling she will be just as stubborn and impulsive.
January 17, 2021
What a fantastic read.
It was dark and sensual and thrilling and has a Russian mafia. What's not to love?
Gregor and Samara definitely fit the phrase enemies-to-lovers to a tee. From the very beginning I loved their back and forth, fiery exchanges.
I also really enjoyed the flow of the story and how it was perfectly paced to draw the reader in. I started the first chapter and immediately knew I should settle in for the long haul.
This was my first book by this author but she certainly didn't disappoint. This story definitely isn't for people who enjoy their romance of the light and gentle variety. Gregor and Samara's relationship isn't easy. It didn't even start willingly on one of their parts. But they eventually got to the place I hoped for and it made the journey that much more enjoyable.
Now I'm super excited to get the next book that was teased at the end.
May 29, 2021
3.5 Stars
I don’t think this one was for me. I feel bad giving it such a low rating because for someone who is into what this book was would enjoy it. I felt that Gregor was too cold to Samara. I understand that “that’s what she needs” but, for me, his behavior towards Samara was a turn off. If it weren’t for the small glimpses into how Gregor truly felt, I would have dnf’d a long time ago.
In Gregor’s quest to subdue Samara, he likes to use his belt. It was too much for me. Sure, a slap can be pleasant, but the way it’s described here didn’t really give me the excitement that other books may have. I think it would’ve been more acceptable if I felt a bond between our H and h, but you had Gregor’s need to be controlling and a step ahead of Samara which resulted in cold, sometimes abusive behavior. And then Samara, avoiding her feelings for Gregor, constantly telling herself that she hates him and that she’s going to get away. Then, in a blink of an eye their issues align and cancel each other out and they’re happy. It was hard to get on board with it, it didn’t feel genuine. I wish that there was more communication between our characters along the way, more of a bond.
Anyway, I think this just wasn’t for me.
I don’t think this one was for me. I feel bad giving it such a low rating because for someone who is into what this book was would enjoy it. I felt that Gregor was too cold to Samara. I understand that “that’s what she needs” but, for me, his behavior towards Samara was a turn off. If it weren’t for the small glimpses into how Gregor truly felt, I would have dnf’d a long time ago.
In Gregor’s quest to subdue Samara, he likes to use his belt. It was too much for me. Sure, a slap can be pleasant, but the way it’s described here didn’t really give me the excitement that other books may have. I think it would’ve been more acceptable if I felt a bond between our H and h, but you had Gregor’s need to be controlling and a step ahead of Samara which resulted in cold, sometimes abusive behavior. And then Samara, avoiding her feelings for Gregor, constantly telling herself that she hates him and that she’s going to get away. Then, in a blink of an eye their issues align and cancel each other out and they’re happy. It was hard to get on board with it, it didn’t feel genuine. I wish that there was more communication between our characters along the way, more of a bond.
Anyway, I think this just wasn’t for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 25, 2021
3.5 stars
This is my 2nd book by this author my 1st was sweet Cruelty which I liked and enjoyed alot ,
This book is the 1st of a Trilogy, the H is a Russian Mafia man and the h is the daughter of one of the families in the Mafia , it's was supposed to be a simple arranged marriage but the h run away!
If you decide to read this be prepared it has some triggers , the H is into kinky stuff he loves to spank , to tie and to choke the h !!!! yes !! ( I hated some of the things he did) I finished this in one sitting so you won't be bored 👍
Next book is the H's friend and the H's brother story!
This is my 2nd book by this author my 1st was sweet Cruelty which I liked and enjoyed alot ,
This book is the 1st of a Trilogy, the H is a Russian Mafia man and the h is the daughter of one of the families in the Mafia , it's was supposed to be a simple arranged marriage but the h run away!
If you decide to read this be prepared it has some triggers , the H is into kinky stuff he loves to spank , to tie and to choke the h !!!! yes !! ( I hated some of the things he did) I finished this in one sitting so you won't be bored 👍
Next book is the H's friend and the H's brother story!
January 9, 2021
Zoe Blake has done it again. What a fantastic read. There isn't a book by her that I've read that I didn't like.
Bravo Zoe.
Bravo Zoe.
January 24, 2024
“You can’t what? Admit you’ve fallen in love with a monster?” His hips ground against mine, punctuating each word. “Admit you love the feel of my hands on you? Admit that despite three years apart you never let another man touch you?” He kissed the column of my neck. His hands wrapped around to my lower back and pulled me forward.
This line ripped me apart ⬆️😱🥵👹
I back at it with Zoe again. Gosh, she makes me think I need buttloads of therapy but then again, where would the fun be if I didn’t enjoy this ridiculous kink?
Samara has been used as collateral for a loan her father obtained from the rich and powerful Ivan family and when Gregor catches her kissing another boy he’s ready to collect on the unpaid debt.
Samara flees along with one of her best friend’s and Gregor spends THREE YEARS hunting her down.
When he finally finds her he is determined to keep her at any cost even if she hates him. There is so much more to the story but you’ve got to read it so I don’t spoil the adventure.
Also, this is hands down, the most romantic book I’ve read from this author. She ripped my heart out at the end, pieced it back together and sent me on my merry way.
Expect a well earned HEA, on the more extreme side of BSDM, dubious consent or nonexistent sometimes, and so much beautiful art education.
💕💕💕💕💕/5
🔥🔥🔥🔥/5
😂😂😂/5
😳😳😳😳😳/5
This line ripped me apart ⬆️😱🥵👹
I back at it with Zoe again. Gosh, she makes me think I need buttloads of therapy but then again, where would the fun be if I didn’t enjoy this ridiculous kink?
Samara has been used as collateral for a loan her father obtained from the rich and powerful Ivan family and when Gregor catches her kissing another boy he’s ready to collect on the unpaid debt.
Samara flees along with one of her best friend’s and Gregor spends THREE YEARS hunting her down.
When he finally finds her he is determined to keep her at any cost even if she hates him. There is so much more to the story but you’ve got to read it so I don’t spoil the adventure.
Also, this is hands down, the most romantic book I’ve read from this author. She ripped my heart out at the end, pieced it back together and sent me on my merry way.
Expect a well earned HEA, on the more extreme side of BSDM, dubious consent or nonexistent sometimes, and so much beautiful art education.
💕💕💕💕💕/5
🔥🔥🔥🔥/5
😂😂😂/5
😳😳😳😳😳/5
March 10, 2021
DNF 35%
I love alpha heroes and this plot was very interesting. I should have known better, I think.
The hero definitely sucks. I don't know what the author wanted to do with him but he was contradictory: sometimes a typical dark romance hero, sometimes an alpha hero (protective, strong and possessive). Sometimes he says he doesn't want to be like his father, the next he behaves like him and he's proud.
And another exemple:
"She was smart as a whip and cunning.
And I'd be lying if I didn't admit I found it arousing as hell.
Damn, I loved this spirited side to her... even as I seduced her into submission."
Hum... No comment.
In short, I'm not fond of punishment especially when the heroine is afraid and says NO and we are not in a BDSM book (or I didn't see it in the plot...).
The first time with the spanking, it was a little hard but I kept saying to myself, he will behave soon. At 35% when he uses his belt to punish her, it was a point of no return for me.
I love alpha heroes and this plot was very interesting. I should have known better, I think.
The hero definitely sucks. I don't know what the author wanted to do with him but he was contradictory: sometimes a typical dark romance hero, sometimes an alpha hero (protective, strong and possessive). Sometimes he says he doesn't want to be like his father, the next he behaves like him and he's proud.
And another exemple:
"She was smart as a whip and cunning.
And I'd be lying if I didn't admit I found it arousing as hell.
Damn, I loved this spirited side to her... even as I seduced her into submission."
Hum... No comment.
In short, I'm not fond of punishment especially when the heroine is afraid and says NO and we are not in a BDSM book (or I didn't see it in the plot...).
The first time with the spanking, it was a little hard but I kept saying to myself, he will behave soon. At 35% when he uses his belt to punish her, it was a point of no return for me.
January 27, 2021
Ok, so I don't like to write anything bad about books because they are subjective, and everyone has their own opinion. So this is mine...it only got 2 stars because every now and then out hero does something cute or says something cute that the heroine appreciates. I enjoy dark romance and there sin't much that bothers me, what his a problem is a heroine saying NO! and the hero carrying on their sexual encounter. That is just too much of a hard limit for me.
I do actually like Zoe's writing style so I might try a different troupe of book if she has one and maybe that will be better for me.
This is my honest and unbiased review.
I do actually like Zoe's writing style so I might try a different troupe of book if she has one and maybe that will be better for me.
This is my honest and unbiased review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 17, 2021
4.6 stars
March 7, 2021
Yeah, no ick. I’m all for dark romances but when you have the “hero” raping the heroine with anal sex as a punishment....there’s no hope for redeeming the story or the male lead. There’s no romance involved at that point and I cannot fathom the female lead actually loving him. Instead, it sounds like she developed feelings for her abuser so she could accept the forced marriage. Hard pass on this book and author.
January 15, 2021
THE REVIEW FOR THE BOOK: SAVAGE VOW.
GENRE:DARK MAFIA ROMANCE.
TROPE: FORCED MARRIAGE, NON-CON, ALPHA HERO, INNOCENT HEROINE...
TYPE: STANDALONE...HEA INCLUDED.
POV: FIRST PERSON: DUAL PROSPECTIVE.(GREGOR & SAMARA.)
MY RATING: 4 STARS.
This is the first installment in the Ivanov Crime Family with leading stars Gregor, the new boss and Samara, his force reluctant betrothed.
Samara was an innocent artistic soul, strange to the wrong-doings of the world. But that the illusion of her dreams and future burst like a bubble when her father who should have protected her daughter, pretty much sells her to the biggest bidder in hopes for replenishing their fame prestiged life.
Gregor, a Russian mob boss, and her best friend Nadia's older brother have always stared in her wet dreams but to encounter the actual man in Nadia's birthday party was nightmare to her.
When comes to the knowledge of her being bounded to him for life and their upcoming marriage she ran for her life.
No one can outrun Mob...and when the boss is after you...the chances are slim to none.
Gregor has always gotten what he wanted, willing or unwilling, he will be married to the rebellious woman even if he has to force her down the altar...
You want Non-Con...you got it here plenty with so much heat going off the limits.
Gregor is THE devil...his ruthlessness, cruelty knows no bounds yet I found a light in him too...nevertheless it was buried deep within and took Samara's efforts to find it.
The attraction between them was evident from the start and when they both finally let go...gosh the fireworks erupted!!!
You can't get enough of these characters...hopefully, Nadia and Yelena will be having their own story.
There is no cliffhanger here...HEA will be included for Gregor and Samara...no matter how impossible it seemed.
If you are in the search for a cute, happy to go love story with silly moments...then you won't find any here...
Because all you will find here is dark Romance with little light to guide you through the book...but you will enjoy it...that I can assure you!
GENRE:DARK MAFIA ROMANCE.
TROPE: FORCED MARRIAGE, NON-CON, ALPHA HERO, INNOCENT HEROINE...
TYPE: STANDALONE...HEA INCLUDED.
POV: FIRST PERSON: DUAL PROSPECTIVE.(GREGOR & SAMARA.)
MY RATING: 4 STARS.
This is the first installment in the Ivanov Crime Family with leading stars Gregor, the new boss and Samara, his force reluctant betrothed.
Samara was an innocent artistic soul, strange to the wrong-doings of the world. But that the illusion of her dreams and future burst like a bubble when her father who should have protected her daughter, pretty much sells her to the biggest bidder in hopes for replenishing their fame prestiged life.
Gregor, a Russian mob boss, and her best friend Nadia's older brother have always stared in her wet dreams but to encounter the actual man in Nadia's birthday party was nightmare to her.
When comes to the knowledge of her being bounded to him for life and their upcoming marriage she ran for her life.
No one can outrun Mob...and when the boss is after you...the chances are slim to none.
Gregor has always gotten what he wanted, willing or unwilling, he will be married to the rebellious woman even if he has to force her down the altar...
You want Non-Con...you got it here plenty with so much heat going off the limits.
Gregor is THE devil...his ruthlessness, cruelty knows no bounds yet I found a light in him too...nevertheless it was buried deep within and took Samara's efforts to find it.
The attraction between them was evident from the start and when they both finally let go...gosh the fireworks erupted!!!
You can't get enough of these characters...hopefully, Nadia and Yelena will be having their own story.
There is no cliffhanger here...HEA will be included for Gregor and Samara...no matter how impossible it seemed.
If you are in the search for a cute, happy to go love story with silly moments...then you won't find any here...
Because all you will find here is dark Romance with little light to guide you through the book...but you will enjoy it...that I can assure you!
January 5, 2021
Oh my gosh, what is life again?! No, seriously. I don't know what to do with my life again! This book will ruin me for another read!
Zoe Blake upped her writing game and slayed this story! It was sooooo phenomenal! Not just good or great! It deserves more than those words!
This book was everything I've ever wanted to read for what feels like foreeeever! Deliciously hawt Russian crime lord who dirty talks and dirty fuck you in every dirty way imaginable? Uhm, yes please, and he's so much more than that! Gregor Ivanov will capture your hearts by first meeting him on the book! He oozed with heavy sexual intensity like no other and girl, he truly delivers! The heroine was so lucky to be chased by this man over and over and over again!
Yes, there's chasing galore, no OW drama and all the dirty sex you could think of, this man will give it to you and give it to you hard and good!
I also love how he's character was so consistent all throughout the story. He saw Samara as his and that's it. Girl didn't stood a chance but oh no, she didn't make it easy for him too, which balances their characters.
What a great way to start the year for me by reading this book! I highly, highly recommend this! And calm your tits for this, but the other two that will feature next installment? I don't think we're ready for them! But gah, can't wait!
Zoe Blake upped her writing game and slayed this story! It was sooooo phenomenal! Not just good or great! It deserves more than those words!
This book was everything I've ever wanted to read for what feels like foreeeever! Deliciously hawt Russian crime lord who dirty talks and dirty fuck you in every dirty way imaginable? Uhm, yes please, and he's so much more than that! Gregor Ivanov will capture your hearts by first meeting him on the book! He oozed with heavy sexual intensity like no other and girl, he truly delivers! The heroine was so lucky to be chased by this man over and over and over again!
Yes, there's chasing galore, no OW drama and all the dirty sex you could think of, this man will give it to you and give it to you hard and good!
I also love how he's character was so consistent all throughout the story. He saw Samara as his and that's it. Girl didn't stood a chance but oh no, she didn't make it easy for him too, which balances their characters.
What a great way to start the year for me by reading this book! I highly, highly recommend this! And calm your tits for this, but the other two that will feature next installment? I don't think we're ready for them! But gah, can't wait!
January 6, 2021
Runaway bride and a mafia man who is determined to reclaim her.
.
I really enjoyed this book and the characters. Who doesn't love a good mafia romance with a strong heroine? She didn't just submit and I loved that.
From the first chapter there is a constant push and pull, with all the hotness in between. Pick this up and you won't be disappointed.
.
I really enjoyed this book and the characters. Who doesn't love a good mafia romance with a strong heroine? She didn't just submit and I loved that.
From the first chapter there is a constant push and pull, with all the hotness in between. Pick this up and you won't be disappointed.
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