Filthy Promises

Akopov Bratva #1

by Nicole Fox

I’m in love with my boss.
He doesn’t even know I exist.
… Until today.

My name is Rowan St. Clair.
For five years, I’ve tried to pretend I’m not head over heels for a man I can never
Vincent Akopov—gorgeous, ruthless, and completely out of my league.

But one fateful errand changes everything.

When I walk in on him thoroughly “occupied” with another woman, I expect embarrassment.
Instead, I get a saucy wink that sets my body on fire.
And the next day? A promotion I never asked for.
"Congratulations, Ms. St. Clair. You're my new personal assistant."

Suddenly, I'm thrust into Vincent's world—Park Avenue penthouses, private jets, and a boss whose meetings put the "DIC" in "dictation."
He tests my limits.
Filthy promises whispered in my ear in the middle of a boardroom, explicit Polaroids left in unexpected places, sneaky gropes in dark hallways…
And I push back. Sexts send both ways, after all.
Our game escalates with each passing day.

There's just one to inherit his father's empire, Vince needs a wife.
So guess who gets to accompany him on every awkward get-to-know-you date?
Me—sitting beside him, trying to ignore his hands wandering up my skirt while he interviews potential brides.

I tell myself it's just physical. Just temporary. Just a fantasy that will end when reality comes knocking.
And reality does indeed knock—
In the form of two pink lines on a pregnancy test.

FILTHY PROMISES is Book 1 of the Akopov Bratva duet. Vince and Rowan’s story continues in Book 2, FILTHY LIES.

Genres: Romance, Dark Romance, Mafia Romance, Contemporary, Workplace Romance, Forced Proximity, Workplace

636 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 28, 2025

About the author

Nicole Fox writes smart, sexy mafia romance novels. She is a crazy cat lady in her late 30s with a coffee addiction, an overactive imagination, and a husband who somehow puts up with her impulsive need to keep buying new plants for their house.

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Reviews

[Irene]

virgin x manwh*re

she had a crush on him for FIVE years

Vincent only sleeps with virgins and is famous around the office for sleeping through nine-tenths of the female staff.
When Rowan got to the executive floor Vincent secretary Vanessa was nowhere to be found. She was just going to slip into his office and leave the reports on his desk but as she was about to knock she moaning she knew that she should leave and was frozen just like the time they came face-to-face five-years ago. Vincent was fucking his secretary and winked at her as if he didn't have a care in the world that he just caught with his secretary and resume with fucking her. After they finished he dismissed her then tell her that she would be transferred to the CFO's desk. His motto was fuck them then leave them. Keep them anonymous, keep them meaningless, keep them always with one foot out the door.

he also hast to marry at 32 they marry but i think he also tricks her into marrying.

[Marcia · Rating 3 out of 5]

The cover got me.
It started off interesting enough but the usual formula by this author. Not a bad thing but I got annoyed and bored the last 20-30%. I'm probably not going to finish because I can probably guess how things will go in the second part. Same drama and pearl clutching by Rowan and whether or not she can forgive Vince blah blah blah then HEA.

[Makayla · Rating 1 out of 5]

She doesn’t want a Pakhan. She wants a regular Billy Joe.

This book had potential, but the heroine dragged it down for me. It’s one of those stories where the girl chases the guy, he chases her back, and she knows exactly who he is—but still acts surprised and torn up when he shows her. From the very beginning, she sees a gun and knows he’s dangerous. Yet by the end, she’s crying and hating him… because he kills people? Girl, what did you think a Pakhan does?

Honestly, Rowan was one of the most frustrating heroines I’ve ever read. Constantly crying, constantly complaining, and somehow still managing to put everyone around her in danger. She leaves at one point (of course) and then spends the next few chapters being emotionally chaotic and useless. I was over it at 75% and almost DNF’d.

If anyone should’ve been the leading lady, it was Ana. Now she was a true mob wife—ready to fight, spill blood, and take her man’s world head-on without falling apart every five minutes. Rowan wanted the mob fantasy without the real-world grit. She didn’t want a Pakhan; she wanted Billy from down the block.

If you’re into mafia romances where the hardened boss slowly turns into a soft-hearted simp, maybe you’ll like this. But if you want a heroine with grit to match the world she’s in, this one will disappoint.

[Isabella Grace · Rating 3 out of 5]

“𝓘’𝓶 𝓲𝓷 𝓵𝓸𝓿𝓮 𝔀𝓲𝓽𝓱 𝓶𝔂 𝓫𝓸𝓼𝓼…𝓱𝓮 𝓭𝓸𝓮𝓼𝓷’𝓽 𝓮𝓿𝓮𝓷 𝓴𝓷𝓸𝔀 𝓘 𝓮𝔁𝓲𝓼𝓽…”

I’m prefacing this by saying I absolutely ADORE Nicole Fox. She is one of my absolute FAVOURITE Mafia Romance authors. No one writes dangerously filthy Mafia men quite like she does. I loved this book. I loved the premise, the tropes…what I didn’t love…the FMC. She was quite possibly the most insufferable character I’ve ever had to read. Any stars lost on this review are all due to her because what the actual f is wrong with this woman. 😩

Vincent is our MMC and yes…you should probably dislike him for the first page but I didn’t 😂 I also run towards red flags like it’s my job so I’m not a great judge of character. He’s a big boss in the business world and the Bratva. He’s also a man-wh@re….no way around it. His guilty pleasure is defiling virgins and has made it through the majority of the females at his company like it’s his second job. Maybe it is? 🤷🏻‍♀️ I dunno. Good for him I guess ? 😂 honestly…if I was a hot mob boss I’d probably be a playboy too. Why not. Live life to the fullest.

Rowan…even her name makes me want to scream. Our innocent, virginal 27 year old FMC. She’s been working at the company for 5 years and in love with Vincent for just as long. Silently sitting by and pining for him like a desperate school girl. She’s too busy to have any sort of life. Working hard to care for her sick mother. Things get kind of messy when she goes to deliver some papers to Vincent and catches him mid hump sesh with his secretary. He winks at her as his secretary moans under him…she scurries off to her desk, wondering “why not me” 😩😂 it’s a mess.

After Vincent sends his used up secretary to another position…he doesn’t believe in going more than once with anyone…he decides that Rowan is the perfect replacement. Rowan is shocked…she’s sure she’s getting fired…instead she’s getting a promotion. Boy is she ever.

There are a lot of secrets swirling around these two. Vincent actually has been spying on her for years. And Rowans family has dangerous ties to Vincent’s.

Vincent shows up to Rowans apartment and lets her know that he knows about her financial situation. He wants her. Not for a quick 🥵 but as his wife. He needs to be married in order to inherit the company fully and become Pakhan. Rowan knows what Vincent’s true affiliations are and she’s ok with it…she lets him take her virginity with a random expired condom that’s just laying around her house…weird for a 27 year old virgin to just have but I digress. But let’s all use our brains and figure out what happens now…… 🤰🏻🥲

She’s pregnant. Yippee! No? We aren’t excited? Just me? Ok fine. Look. She’s pregnant. She doesn’t want to tell him but let’s be honest. He’s going to figure it out. And he does.

Now…this is when the story starts to take the most annoying turn. And it’s all because of Rowan. I don’t know if she’s being intentionally stupid or if her brain cells fell out when Vincent was on top of her but holy crap…she acts like she doesn’t know he’s a BAD MAN. GIRL! Be so fucking for real. You knew. You’ve known for five years. You wanted him. You have him. Now stop crying. Literally. Stop. Crying. All this girl does is cry. Whine. Complain. She refuses protection even though there are literally people trying to unalive her 🤡 what?!? You wanted this life. You have it. Now you don’t want it ???? You want him to change?? CHANGE?!?!? Please. I can’t. I cannot. She’s back and forth. Wishy washy 24/7. Annoying. Entitled for someone with nothing. She wants nothing to do with the mafia life and wants Vincent to go from a mafia leader who has unalived more people than he can count, to the innocent church boy husband. 👀👀👀👀

Clearly. CLEARLY…this causes some conflict. All this man has thought about his whole life is running the company and the Bratva. But…his good heart has softened to this annoying woman and he wants to give her everything. But will he give it all up for her? His father is sitting there slamming his face against the table screaming, THIS IS WHY I TOLD YOU TO MARRY A WOMAN OF MY CHOOSING! 😩😩😩 same papa Akopov….same….

We are left in chaos , shambles , cliffhanger emotional damage in true Nicole Fox style. I love it. I’m itching for my answers and PRAYING to the Mafia romance gods that Rowan grows a backbone and a new personality before the next book 🙃 Happy reading, loves X

Thank you to Nicole Fox and Literally Yours PR for the opportunity to ARC read this book 🖤

🖤Dark Mafia Romance
🥃Virgin FMC
🖤Man-Wh@re MMC
🥃Age Gap (27/32)
🖤Workplace Romance
🥃Boss x Employee
🖤Bratva
🥃Billionaire
🖤Morally Grey Anti-Hero
🥃Surprise Pregnancy
🖤Suspense
🥃Secrets/Lies
🖤Secret Identity
🥃Danger/Violence
🖤Forced Proximity
🥃Dual POV
🖤Cliffhanger

[Jayde · Rating 1 out of 5]

0/10 and be prepared because i am going to spoil THE FUCK out of this monstrosity. i am writing this review on my laptop which i never do, but i need the full keyboard in order to write out my complaint.

There are very few things I like about this book. Actually, I only like one thing about this book and that is the MMC Vince.

The author wrote the FMC to be such a fucking stupid bitch. I have never hated a character more. First, she is this lowly marketing employee that had a crush on her boss for five years. Cute; love that. Then she walks into him fucking his secretary and is promoted to his Executive Assistance by him. Again, cute; love that. The FMC is a virgin that does not have time to date because her mother has cancer and she has been taking care of her mother since she was eleven which is all understandable. All of the sudden, her boss (Vince) shows up to her apartment and they start having sex. She has a random condom in her living room and gives it to him. Here is where my confusion lies. If you are a virgin and have never come close to having sex, why do you have a random condom in your living room? Not hating, just asking. Also, EVERYONE (even virgins) know condoms expire so why wouldn't you check the expiration date before spreading your legs for your boss -- I bet you know where this is going right?

SURPRISE!!!! The FMC is now pregnant by her rich mafia boss and she is *shocked* AND refuses to tell him; whatever, that's her (dumbass) choice. She then decides to fight him on EVERYTHING. This women got into a car accident (that happened bc a rival hit them) and she watched her boss kill someone and she has the AUDACITY to be upset that the MMC is offering well, *forcing* around the clock protection for both her and her mother. At the end of the chapter she says she does not want to go back to her old life and ON THE VERY NEXT PAGE she is bitching to Vince that she does not want/need protection and she wants to go back to her old life. Make that make fucking sense please.

IF YOU KNOW THE MAN YOU ARE INVOLVED WITH IS THE HEAD OF A MAFIA ORGANIZATION THEN WHY ARE YOU SURPRISED THAT YOU NEED TO HAVE ARMED GUARDS WITH YOU 24/7!!!!!!! The FMC is dumb and irrational throughout the entire fucking book and it is exhausting. She is such a whiny little bitch i swear.

THEN, they end up working things out (snoozefest because the author uses sex instead of actual meaningful dialogue) and now the MMC wants to go "clean." Cool! No problem with that. I am confused as to how the FMC has a seat at the table. The MMC calls a business meeting for the high level associates in the mafia and the FMC is there (which we love), but she is giving the fucking presentation as if she knows who she is dealing with and what she is talking about. I do not have a degree in marketing so I could be talking out of my ass, but how does someone in marketing know what the fuck they are talking about when it comes to writing up business plans for different businesses?!?!?! I understand that marketing does play a part with some of this, but this did not make sense to me.


The FMC went form this docile little "doe" to a mafia queen in just a few chapters. With NO CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT in sight. This was all confusing.

This book is weird and convoluted. The pacing is awkward (weeks pass at a time between chapters) and I feel like the book was missing a lot of important dialogue that should have happened.

Also, how do we get some shocking information about the FMC's identity and then it goes nowhere besides a chapter (or three)? The author introduces all of these storylines just for them to go nowhere. Same with the FMC's mom. She was receiving life saving chemo and the last thing we are told is she looks a lot better, but that's it. I am 97% done with this book as I am typing this so I think it is safe to assume we are not getting a resolution about these things in this book -- i am not sure if there is a second book.

Oh brother, what was the bullshit that happened in chapter 70? Be so fucking for real right now.

OF COURSE THERE IS A SECOND BOOK. AND OF COURSE I AM GOING TO READ IT BECAUSE I CANNOT HELP MYSELF.

I am actually glad there is a second book because I have so many questions that were left unanswered.

also, i am not going to edit this at all because these were my thoughts while I was reading; real and raw. below are my favorite cringey quotes for your viewing pleasure.

"my panties come off last. i raise my hips to let him take them away, but no sooner are they gone than do his lops press against the place where our child will come into the world. As if he's blessing the space before it is called into service."

"'the mother of my child,' he says with awe. 'carrying my baby while taking my cock so perfectly.'"

[Neapolitan670 📚🖤 · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️

Rowan, has been in her marketing job for five years, when she walks in on her boss in a precarious position. Thinking she is going to be fired, instead finds herself promoted. That’s where all the fun and games start, her fascination with her boss proceeds into a smutfest, wherever and whenever. Though we all know as a bratva prince only time will tell how this story will turn out. We are led through states of secrets, lies, loss of trust but will love conquer all?

Loved it, it drew you into their lives, their story, their love until the cliffy at the end 🤭

[R Rais · Rating 2 out of 5]

Early chapter was good. Started with a naughty wink, the way she ran should tells you her real charachter. But, yeah, i expect too much.

Along the way, i see bullshit ofa fiction. A girl with stars in her eyes, little virgin who tought shes strong enough to stand in the fire without getting burn. Lusting over her boss with her deliberet ignorance of who he really is. Who she knows perfectly well involve in shady deals of mafia world. Her charachter bores me. I wish she can admit its lust, its power, its the luxury of comfort to be able to get out of all those financial problems.
To keep saying, "if only he loves me, " then when finally the guy said and do anything to love and protect her in his way, she goes, "its all a lie, "
Then, she act like being a mafia boss is like being a pope. All cute and sweet with orphan kids and soft hands. I cant believe i continue reading until almost to the end!
This is hypocrisy fold in fiction romance whatever. This kind of main charachter is boring.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Mills · Rating 2 out of 5]

I CANNOT BELIEVE I slogged my way through SEVENTY ONE CHAPTERS only to find a cliffhanger.

I am not pleased.

I won't read the next book because I found the story idiotic and ridiculous beyond what I expect for this genre.

The grammar and syntax are fine, barring a few minor issues, but the plot simply does not work. I'm not motivated to double check things I found contradictory so forgive me if any are wrong:

- Initially the male protagonist notices the heroine and thinks she's pretty but not obviously intriguing. A few months later, he reveals that he had been having her investigated for years and discovered some hugely inflammatory info. In some ways he knew more about her than she did.

- We're told that the heroine is a virgin. The first time they have sex, she's all "it was the best sex of my life. The only sex of my life that actually felt like it mattered". Like LOL girl, that is a low bar. Consider me unimpressed.

- Are you allowed to take flowers into hospital in the US? You aren't here anymore - infection control.

- The very wealthy man who is one of only a few people who know the heroine's mum is ill donates anonymously to cover the medical care and is like "she'll never know it was me"! Really, bro?

- Patronymics are, by definition, based on the father's name so I'd expect the daughter of Grigor to be something like Grigoryevna, not inexplicably Nikolaevna.

- Was it the father or the grandfather who arrived in America with just a suitcase full of dreams? Because this seems to vary.

- Why doesn't the family estate house the hero's father given he's the boss? Similarly, why assume that family servants would be more loyal to one member than the other?

- Does the heroine do any work after getting knocked up? Does someone take over her job role?

- What kind of a terrible parent is pleased when their child marries a mafioso they barely know?

[Jinane Abou Hassan zahran · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nicole Fox was one of the first authors to introduce me to dark romance, especially Bratva romance. I didn’t even know what “Bratva” meant back then! Most of her books are long duets, but they never drag, and Filthy Promises is no exception.

This first book in the Akopov Bratva Duet is intense and addictive. What stood out to me, unlike many of her books, was the slow burn. Instead of the characters jumping into bed right away, the chemistry builds gradually through teasing notes, lingering touches, and suggestive Polaroids. It’s a masterclass in anticipation.

Rowan St. Clair has worked for Vincent Akopov for five years without being noticed. She’s quiet, loyal, and focused on paying her mother’s medical bills. But when she catches her boss in a compromising moment, everything changes. Vincent suddenly takes notice, and promotes her to his personal assistant.

Thrown into his dangerous world of Bratva dealings and power plays, Rowan proves she’s more than capable. Vincent sees her strength and loyalty… but just as their connection deepens, his father delivers an ultimatum: marry a Bratva princess or lose the empire. And then Rowan discovers she’s pregnant.

This story is packed with emotional tension, forbidden love, betrayal, and possessiveness from both sides. Rowan is stronger than she knows, and Vincent is torn between getting the power he deserves (withheld by his father) and the future he wants with Rowan. It’s a fast, emotional ride that left me desperate for Book 2, Filthy Lies.

I rooted for Rowan and Vincent the whole way and I can’t wait to see how their story ends. 5 stars!!! Recommended!!!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sonia N. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such an edge of your seat with lots of Romance!

Vince is a gorgeous anti hero and such a delicious alpha male!! He is also Bratva and He will be a Pakan soon.
This book is filled with so much action and secrets that will soon be unveiled, especially about Rowan. She is one tough cookie. She does not put up with anything in the beginning. She was very subservient to Vince because she was in love with him. And the steamy love scenes will burn your kindle.
There is so much to review about this book, but I don’t wanna give too much away the old school and the new school Bratva conflict with each other in this book and it’s just such a really good book and I really recommend reading it. I love the cover of this book. It’s like a perfect fit for Vince so much is in this book it’s so loaded with so much stuff it’s just such a good read. I just highly recommend it.

[Bookslover09 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Filthy Promises by @nicolefoxromance

Nicole, once again, has left me in a throbbing state of suspense, dangling on the edge of a cliff with that outrageous ending. What the hell? I desperately need those enticing "Filthy Lies" NOW! What fate awaits Rowen? My heart races for Vince; he’s charismatic and fierce yet endlessly loyal. The way his mind works, it’s like he carries the world's weight on his shoulders, promising that those who cross him will surely pay the price! This series is an absolute must-read—an exhilarating rollercoaster that will leave you breathless and wanting more!

[connie · Rating 2 out of 5]

main character shocked that her bf who is in the mafia kills people

[Cassie Lenz · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75/5 ⭐️This was my first Nicole Fox book and I loved it. Some humour, witty, great plot, perfect spice and angst. Nicole’s writing roped me in on the first page. Excellent character descriptions and story telling!! My first boss / employee book and I’m hooked. I read it pretty fast and you don’t even realize as you don’t want to stop. Great cliff hanger and cannot wait for the next one!!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Chronic Chihuahua · Rating 1 out of 5]

He Didn't Flop Out When Inside Vanessa Meaning I Cannot Trust The Depth Of Any Feelings He Has For Rowan, He Finished OW Three Times, When The Body Is The Organ Of Emotion

I love reading the reviews of all the trauma tourists, reading them nuance him and his violence and murder and judge her.

She should be judged for not taking a pill.

His dick was everywhere, he deserved to suffer an abortion.

But you don't really LIKE dark, you like being saved from concepts of dark, while still being a pathetic purity sponge.

So this story is just her settling for his money and being his unseen emotional punching bag, away from his true self.

She deserved to lose her mother after fucking him.

Ruined it by having him impacted by the crappy "sex" by the loud performer Vanessa.

imagine thinking HEs related to a womans orgasm.

There is no "good at sex" but there is the 'good at being unseen', like her.

He tells me nothing interesting that he notices about her, just enjoys her responses to him like a good little narcissist.

Hes Able To Orgasm And Continue To Fuck Vanessa Yet Tells Us He Cares About Rowan In That Moment, Using Money To Fix It Like A Toxic Toddler

I really love laughing at the type of women who would be able to unsee their life partner inside another woman, as he dehumanises that woman.

Wow, that scene really made him so unattractive, especially the two things he does after meetinf Rowans gaze, continuing and then firing Vanessa.

That just makes him a toxic classist cunt.

But you are a dysregulated person whose sex life is unrelated to you, its all in your fucking head.

Read like a mans porn fantasy.

And i love telling Liberals that they read like men when its supposed to be a woman with woman impulses.

But its ok, Vanessa sounded her out for him.

She's unseen now.

She let him fuck her.

And what the pupil dilating shit?

What is she a fucking cat?

Jesus christ I read men like this and I keep waiting for him to just smack her in those heated moments.

So bored of men and their emotional dysregulation.

There was something about his daddy and a baby they are going to neglect, who will know mumm seen him fuck and dismiss Vanessa and still fell for hin like a little Unseen, Unloved and utterly Unfucked teenager.

Imagine you were interesting for what you brought to the table and not because you were boring and he creates desires and a life for you.

Snore.

Reading her be so manipulated by all the money when people are protesting him and his crusty ass, makes her look vaccuous and shallow.

Her mother is in that position because of a system he reinforces, fixing it is the least he can do.

What, you think Apartheid Musk and his failed dick implant didn't give his harem of mutual child abusers money before breeding them?

Unmoved by his controlling nature

[S · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This is book 1 of the Akopov Bratva duet. Personally I'm a huge fan of Nicole Fox writings, I have read most of her books, and have absolutely adored them.
This book is definitely one amongst them.
From the beginning till the end, i thoroughly enjoyed reading.

The female character has such amazing personality, she's witty, intelligent and beautiful and when both the MMC and FMC come together, it's just pure magic.

As always Nicole Fox didn't disappoint, I'm eagerly waiting for part 2 of the series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Trish · Rating 5 out of 5]

Filthy Promises

Absolutely delicious! This is a very hot story, perfect for Summer read. Rowan is a great mfc showing such growth in her own confidence and following her own path. Vincent finding himself after being lost in his father's world. This book ends on a cliffhanger, im looking forward to the second book.

[Karen Goodenough · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oh my goodness this book was definitely a page turner that kept me wanting more. I loved the chemistry these two had. I can’t wait for the continuation as this leaves you on a major cliff hanger.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jaimie Lynn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another great read from Nicole! This is a fast read, despite the length. It was suspenseful at the right times and always a reason to continue reading.
There were a couple inconsistencies I was confused with nothing to make you want to stop reading.
Can't wait to read part two and to figure out what happens with Rowan & Vince.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Thai ☾ · Rating 5 out of 5]

this book has altered my brain chemistry

at this moment i am like ???? how did i live without rowan and vincent for so long?

i am- i don’t even know what to say .

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ahhh the cliffhanger! I ended up binging this in less than 24 hours. Onto book two lol hopefully it doesn’t end with a cliffhanger like book one did.

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

Filthy Promises is book one of the Akopov Bratva duet. A full-length standalone romance with no cheating and ends on a cliffhanger. This is Vincent and Rowan’s story which was told from a dual point of view. Their story continues in book two, Filthy Lies. An exquisitely crafted story with world building characters and a twisty and fascinating storyline that captures the audience attention from the first chapter and keeps you riveted and on the edge of your seat with it's pulse-pounding suspense, high-octane adventures and twists and turns. An unputdownable and addictive absorbing read. This book demands to be read and screamed escape from the everyday life and gave that something extra that you craved and never knew that you needed. Immerse yourself in this mesmerizing rollercoaster ride filled with tension, cravings and tension and heart-stirring emotions and follow along as these two characters fall in love.
♟️Dark Mafia Romance
♟️Workplace Romance
♟️Boss-Employee Romance
☠️Organize Crime Story
☠️Bratva Romance
♟️Billionaire Romance
☠️Morally-Grey Antihero Romance
🔥Talking her Through the big "O"
🔥Spice/Passion, Fantasy
♟️Surprised Pregnancy
☠️Danger, Violence, Betrayal
✔️Virgin Heroine Romance
Twenty-seven year old Rowan St. Clair has had a rough upbringing riddle with poverty. She works hard to cover both her Manhattan rent and her mother's medical bills. She has worked in the marketing department at The Akopov Industries corporate headquarters for the last five years and as had a crush on Vincent Akopov, son of Andrei Akopov, Russian immigrant turned tech billionaire. He's her boss's boss's boss's boss and the star of approximately nine billion of her inappropriate daydreams. Natalie is very pregnant thus she can't move around too much meaning the work falls on Rowan. She was sent to the executive floor to deliver the quarterly reports Vincent a.k.a. the Lion, the Van Gogh of virgins, the Monet of moans, the Picasso of pussy. Vincent only sleeps with virgins and is famous around the office for sleeping through nine-tenths of the female staff.
When Rowan got to the executive floor Vincent secretary Vanessa was no where to be found. She was just going to slip into his office and leave the reports on his desk but as she was about to knock she moaning she knew that she should leave and was frozen just like the time they came face-to-face five-years ago. Vincent was fucking his secretary and winked at her as if he didn't have a care in the world that he just caught with his secretary and resume with fucking her. After they finished he dismissed her then tell her that she would be transferred to the CFO's desk. His motto was fuck them then leave them. Keep them anonymous, keep them meaningless, keep them always with one foot out the door. Because if you don't care about them, then nothing can hurt you. Vince was intrigued by Rowan and saw an opportunity after he did a deep dive into her background and saw that she was drowning in debt. Vince is an unrepentant playboy and soon to the CEO of Akopov Industries was his father steps down in a few months. It's all good and well but it's not the promotion that he's most excited for. It's when Andrei hands him his other crown, king of the Akopov Bratva.
Every month Andrei harp on Vince on starting a family to carry on the legacy. But Vince is not interested he doesn't need a family nor does he give a fuck about legacy. He believes those are the trappings of dinosaurs like his father and all he need is the crown because he plan on relying on himself and creating his own path. Andrei and Mikhail Volkov are business partners and Mikhail thinks his son should take over as CEO when he retire. Stability and continuity matters to the board. There's an inheritance clause set in place in order for him to receive his full allotment of shares and the CEO position. He must be married by his thirty-second birthday as well as produce a heir and he's thirty-one. Vince had been avoiding it, shoving out of sight, out of mind. Andrei told him that without a wife he gets nothing. Not CEO, not pakhan, not controlling shares, nothing. Not even so much as a bullet casing from his gun or the ashed end of his fucking cigar.
He was having daydreams about the things he was about to do to her, him fucking her. But before he was able to get to his orgasm it ended like a videotape that's run out space. It was then that he made a decision for her to be his personal assistant. For the time in months he was genuinely interested and not some model or heiress that his father wants him to date. Rowan gets an email the next morning with a meeting request from Vincent Akopov. She thought that she was going to get fired because of what she witnessed the night before. Vince can't seems to get Rowan off his mind not even during his meeting with his father. Andrei keeps trying to pick daughters of associates who have helped him when he first came to America who are all from a strong family, educated and have gone to an ivy league school but he's not interested he wants Rowan. Wanted her started as a game, a passing interest who wondered into the room at the wrong time has transformed into something entirely more strategic.
He's going to use her mother's medical debt against her and make her proposition, instead of getting a quick fuck on his desk she was next in line to be his wife. Rowan was shocked when she got a promotion to executive assistant, his right hand man, plus triple her current salary, with benefits. He told her that he knows that she as had a crush on him for the last five years and he never knew about it until now. What started out as a cat and mouse game quickly turned into an all-consuming relationship of passion and obsession. The relationship with Rowan was meant be a distraction, a past time but changed him in so many ways in which he was finally able to come from under years of his father's control and manipulation. He wanted to ruin her, break her for others who came after him. But it was she who end up ruining him for everyone including the women who his father picked for him as his bride who would align with the Akopov Bratva.
Rowan was not apart of his world an outsider but she proved her loyalty when secrets revealed and she was tested. She changed the trajectory of his life when she became pregnant with the Akopov heir. This new development change is father's control from him and he wanted to raise the baby in the ways of the Bratva since Vince as turn from his upbringing. He believes that the baby is the true heir. There's so many twists and surprising turns and revelation that derail Rowan’s new found happiness when she found out that Vince had been watching her for the past five years and that he paid her best friend to spy on her. Because she was the daughter of his biggest enemy Grigor Petrov. And everything changed from that moment because he lied and kept secrets from her. They wasn't supposed to be together but she resurrect parts of him that he thought had been died for years. Rowan finally got what she wanted Vince choosing her over all the other suitable mafia brides. But she wasn't ready nor cut out for the Bratva life. She wanted him to give up his birthright something that he bled for, fought for. She hates the fact that he torture and kill people for their betrayal. She's not cut out to be the wife of a pakhan and that in itself shows that his dad was correct in not wanting him to be with an outside. She actually got on my nerves with her complaining, stubbornness, and refusing protection even when everyone explain the dangers that she's in carrying the Akopov heir that all of his enemies would use and the baby against him as leverage even her own father. I leave you here for now.

I received an advanced copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Akhila · Rating 5 out of 5]

Who doesn't like an office romance and that too in the mafia romances it's gonna be an epic.finally nicole fox is getting back on track with interesting tropes and she did it with this one . Can't wait to read the next part !!!!!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Tamarra Lynch · Rating 5 out of 5]

An unrequited crush and seeing something that makes her feel warm and fuzzy puts Rowan front and centre with none other than Vincent Akopov, and when she is offered a promotion to her current role, executive assistant to the man who has been front and centre of all her fantasies she knows she is in big trouble.

Learning all she needs to with her role Rowan’s curiosity gets the better of her, she over hears something and two, she finds something that puts the fear in her, yet doesn’t deter her from returning to work, only for Vincent to discover what his little doe has been up to does he decide to further test her loyalty, and she passes with flying colours.

The tension between Vincent and Rowan is palpable, Vincent can read Rowan, knows what she wants, but to him this is a game, one he intends to win, and Rowan has every intention of playing, pushing back just as hard. The only thing standing in his way is the clause as set out by his father, where he is required to marry, the timeline pushed up.

The song and dance that Vincent and Rowan play comes to a head. Whilst courting the women on his father’s shortlist, it’s clear to the candidates that his heart lies elsewhere where, they’re both denying the inevitable and finally give into the passion and desires between them.

They fall into each other, hard and deep. What they share is consuming as it is intoxicating. Vincent giving Rowan everything that she’s longed for, a love that is all encompassing. Until two pink lines changes everything.

And now Rowan is thrust into Vincent’s world, one of violence and constant danger, with her own eyes is she confronted with the reality of the life Vincent lives, and she sees him for who he actually is, and when he learns that she’s carrying his child, does his demeanor change, only for Rowan to feel suffocated and overwhelmed, her life as she knows it, changed irrevocably.

Even as declarations of love are made, does Rowan find out the heartbreaking truth of her parentage, shattering whatever beliefs she had, the lies and deception dividing her relationship with Vincent. Even after the vows they took, all she ever wanted was the truth, and Vincent knows he is to blame. When her life is threatened due a pregnancy complication, does Vincent change his tune. The thought of losing Rowan and his child changes his perspective on a lot of things, does he give her not only control but a voice.

The fractures of their relationship begin to heal as they begin opening up to each other, sharing their pasts, hopes, fear and dreams, learning to lean on each other and support one another through the challenging and difficult times. As they develop and grow as a couple systematical changes are happening that will change the structure within the Akopov family only there are those out there that are against this change and are moving against Vincent, and when Vincent learns the truth, of the lengths that his father went to, does Vincent become a different person entirely. Nobody hurts his family and gets away with it because the consequences will be dire, and when Rowan’s life is threatened, the beast that Vincent had locked away inside roars to the surface, he will move heaven and earth to find her and he will take no prisoners.

Rowan’s growth from meek and mild to fiery and strong, is a testament to her resilience. She showed Vincent that she is truly capable, not only standing up to his controlling and dominant ways, but calling him out on his BS. With a new perspective was Vincent able to open his eyes and finally see who his father is, standing up to him, challenging and changing the status quo.

The slow burn was on point, and when they connected their love ignited. The spice was perfection. Rowan’s claiming was not only carnal it was primal, and Vincent made her own every moment that they were together. Those sexy scenes were hot, steamy, sinfully wicked, filthy, dirty, dark and deliciously depraved, and these two couldn’t be more perfect for each other.

Highly recommend both the author and the book. Now onto book two for the conclusion of Vincent and Rowan’s story.

I received an ARC. Therefore, I am submitting a voluntary review.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m in love with my boss.

He doesn’t even know I exist.



My name is Rowan St. Clair.

For five years, I’ve tried to pretend I’m not head over heels for a man I can never have:

Vincent Akopov—gorgeous, ruthless, and completely out of my league.



But one fateful errand changes everything.



When I walk in on him thoroughly “occupied” with another woman, I expect embarrassment.

Instead, I get a saucy wink that sets my body on fire.

And the next day? A promotion I never asked for.

"Congratulations, Ms. St. Clair. You're my new personal assistant."



Suddenly, I'm thrust into Vincent's world—Park Avenue penthouses, private jets, and a boss whose meetings put the "DIC" in "dictation."

He tests my limits.

Filthy promises whispered in my ear in the middle of a boardroom, explicit Polaroids left in unexpected places, sneaky gropes in dark hallways…

And I push back. Sexts send both ways, after all.

Our game escalates with each passing day.



There's just one problem: to inherit his father's empire, Vince needs a wife.

So guess who gets to accompany him on every awkward get-to-know-you date?

Me—sitting beside him, trying to ignore his hands wandering up my skirt while he interviews potential brides.



I tell myself it's just physical. Just temporary. Just a fantasy that will end when reality comes knocking.

And reality does indeed knock—

In the form of two pink lines on a pregnancy test.

This contemporary Akopov Bratva billionaire marriage of convenience romance is page-turning with exceptional world-building that is engulfed by darkness, danger, violence, and grit, and characters that are an alpha, gorgeous, ruthless, and completely out of my league billionaire, exuding power/wealth, who is dangerous, violent, possessive, obsessive, and a sassy, personal assistant, who are captivating, and realistic. Their journey is enthralling with filthy promises, an explicit romance that is consumed by steamy, sizzling passion, lust, desire, and spice with all the feelings to leave readers breathless and begging for more, promises Rowan St. Clair and Vincent Akopov's story, one fateful errand changes everything, one problem, to inherit his father's empire, Vince needs a wife, Rowan St. Clair has to accompany him on every awkward get-to-know-your-date, reality does indeed knock in the form of two pink lines on a pregnancy test, drama, heartfelt emotions, action, adventure, and more. I recommend reading this book by an extraordinary author who knows how to captivate her readers' hearts and attention with filthy promises and an explicit romance that is sure to transport readers into a world where danger and lust collide in this entertaining mafia world that is dangerous and unforgettable.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Nikstarz · Rating 5 out of 5]

*Cliff Hanger* / *Book 1 of 2*
*Dark Revenge Romance*
*Morally Grey OTT J/P MC*
*Bratva Romance*
*Bully Romance*
*Secret Identity*
*Boss & Employee Romance*
*Forbidden Romance*
*Innocent FMC*
*Surprise Pregnancy*


Nicole Fox is the absolute QUEEN of Dark Bratva Romances. So it comes as no big surprise that she has done it again!
Another fantastic duet series to add to her collection!
I know that I am pretty much guaranteed an amazing read anytime she releases a new book! And she definitely did not let me down with this one!


There are so many twists and turns within this book, when I think I know what’s going on, there’s another twist.
I have so many questions that I need to have answered and now I need to wait till the next book is released.
That ending tho!!! Why??? 😭😭 How could you Nicole?? That’s so cruel!!
But in reality, Nicole isn’t cruel enough to leave us hanging for book two! It has also been released alongside book one! Meaning I can continue straight away & I’m not left pondering how the series will end!

This book / story is about Rowan St. Clair (Female MC {Employee}) & Vincent Akopov (Male MC {Boss & Pakhan/Bratva Leader}).
Rowan has been working for Vince’s company for the past 5 years & has been harbouring a crush on Vince from the moment she saw him walk in on her interview being conducted by the Chief Marketing Officer. Since then Rowan has been smitten & Vince has been the fuel for many a late night xxx dreams & fantasies. Being a shy, awkward and lowly based level employee, Rowan knows that she’s not even a blip on Vince’s radar & is nowhere near the class of the endless women that appear on Vince’s arm & end up in his bed, or against any hard surface, or on their knees before him.

However that all changes when Rowan is asked to deliver an important report to his office late one evening via his secretary’s desk and ends up walking in on Vince ‘entertaining’ said secretary bend over his desk instead!

I don’t want to give away any spoilers that may detract from your reading experience, so I’m only going to say that “You ABSOLUTELY need to read this book!!!!!”
Go in ‘blind’ and be prepared for the ride!
The twists and turns will leave you questioning everything.


*** I would like to say a HUGE THANK YOU to Nicole Fox for allowing me the pleasure to read ‘Filthy Promises’ as an ARC in exchange for my honest thoughts, opinions and review.

[Alexis Blume · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve never begged for anything in my life.
But I’d beg for her.
“I don’t have a ring. I don’t have pretty words. But I have this.” I press her hand to my chest where my heart hammers wildly, proof that I mean what I say. “It’s yours if you want it.”

The most powerful man I’ve ever known is on his knees.
For me.

okay @nicolefoxromance… I see you!

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️

TW: violence, toxic family,unplanned pregnancy, kidnapping, parent of main character has cancer

In her dark romance, Filthy Promises, Nicole Fox sweeps us away into the Bratva world of Vincent Akopov. He is head of Akopov Enterprises, at least to the US Government… but truthfully, it’s the Akopov Bratva Family. Vince doesn’t want to settle down; he enjoys the fun he has with no strings attached, at least for the next 7 months. He has to marry by his 32nd birthday to gain access to all his shares within the company, remain CEO, but most importantly, take over as the head of the Bratva, be the pakhan, retire his dad. He’s planning to marry someone from another Bratva family, but a wink, in a filthy moment, changes everything.
Rowan St. Claire is just trying to make it in the world. Life is expensive, life in New York, with crippling medical debt from her mom’s cancer, impossible. Rowan is doing her friend a favor by dropping off the quarterly reports to the boss, Vincent. She hasn’t been up to the executive floors since the day she was hired 5 years ago, but she’s sweating through her deodorant like she’s running a marathon. Her heart is running its marathon. For 5 years, she’s stolen unnoticed glances at Vincent, his eyes blue enough to burn a hole through literally any article of clothing she thrifted for that day, but she’s kept it hidden. But when she accidentally bumped Vincent's door open, in a filthy moment, a wink changed her life.

Filthy Promises is one of the best Bratva(mafia) romances that I have read. No unnecessary violence on page. The quick world building and elegant storytelling is top tier, and I will be reading more. OH and the SPICE WAS SPICING. #bookreviews #bookreview #bookreviewer #booklover #bookrecommendations #book #readingcommunity #reading #readersgonnaread #readersofinstagram #romancebookaddict #romancereader #romancebooks #romancereads #romance

[Kim Cass · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rowan St. Clair has had a crush on her boss, Vince Akapov, for five years. But when he offers her the position of his personal assistant, she quickly realizes he doesn’t just want her managing his calendar…he wants HER. What starts off as a seemingly professional arrangement spirals into a whirlwind romance and Vince becomes utterly obsessed. Whether she’s his assistant, his lover, or his wife, all he wants is Rowan and he’ll do whatever it takes to make her stay.

“You have me. Forever.”

As with every Nicole Fox romance, I can safely say I was IN LOOOOVE with this duet. It’s the perfect mix of workplace secret lovers and mafia marriage, packed with twists and turns that kept the story fun and unpredictable. It was a rollercoaster of emotions in the best way possible! What really stood out to me though was how the story centred around true partnership and building a family unit. Yes, there were hardships, but Rowan and Vince communicated and got through them together. That’s rare and refreshing.

Rowan is incredibly pragmatic, strong, grounded, and constantly growing. I loved how she pushed through every challenge, even when it forced her out of her comfort zone. She owns her struggles, adapts, and brings Vince back to reality when he needs it. We stan a queen in her own right!

Vince, on the other hand, was such a refreshing take on a future Bratva pakhan. He’s willing to change, to modernize, and isn't violent or controlling by nature. He’s deeply respectful, patient, and most of all, driven by a need to protect, not dominate, those he loves. He was such A MANNNNN, I loved him.


“I don’t have a ring, I don’t have pretty words. But I have this.” I press her hand to my chest where my heart hammers wildly, proof that I mean what I say. “It’s yours if you want it.”

This book felt like a complete journey on its own and ended on such a tense note. I NEED to know what happens next and will be jumping straight into Filthy Lies, fingers crossed everything works out (of course it will cause there is no such thing as a Nicole Fox romance without a HEA!).

[Carmela Agatha Enriquez (agathafeelingg.reads) · Rating 2 out of 5]

🎧 ALC REVIEW 🎧

Thank you @simonmaverickaudio for an early listening copy of Filthy Promises by Nicole Fox. I received an advance listening copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. 🤍

Narrator/s: Laura Horowitz, Walker Williams
Rating: ⭐⭐.5/5
Release date: September 9th, 2025

Blurb: Rowan St. Clair has been secretly in love with her ruthless, untouchable boss Vincent Akopov for years, until a chance encounter thrusts her into his world of luxury, danger, and forbidden temptation as his new personal assistant. What begins as a game of seduction and power spirals into something far more complicated when Vince needs a wife…and Rowan finds herself holding a secret that could change everything.

🛑Read on with caution; review may contain spoilers🛑

Filthy Promises (Akopov Bratva Book 1) sets up a dark mafia romance full of betrayal, danger, and forbidden attraction. Nicole Fox captures the grit of the Bratva world well, and the chemistry between the leads is definitely there. The premise is engaging, but overall the execution didn’t fully land for me.

The pacing dragged in several places, making the story feel longer than it needed to be. The female main character also lacked depth for much of the book, and she only began to redeem herself more than halfway through. While the romance had tension, the smut scenes grew repetitive.

The audiobook narration also wasn’t ideal. The male narrator’s voice was so deep that it became difficult to understand his chapters, which pulled me out of the story. The female narrator delivered her parts clearly and with good energy, but the uneven quality between the two voices hurt the overall experience.

In the end, Filthy Promises had potential as a dark mafia romance, but repetitive steam, dragging pace, and weak character development held it back. It was an okay read for me, but not one I’d read again.

[Laura Wolff · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ahhhhh! That’s all I have to say! I cannot believe this is a part one. Grrrrrr. Why do I have to get so invested in these mafia romances.

Nicole Fox is by far one of the best dark romance writers I have ever read. And I read A LOT. This book got me hooked from the beginning and kept me going until then end…WHERE IT CONTINUES IN BOOK 2! Ugh.

I am so invested in Rowan and Vincent’s story I can’t not read book 2. I NEED to know what happens!

This story is not like the other cookie cutter mafia romances. But does check all my boxes for being a good mafia romance.

Drama. ✔️
Forbidden romance. ✔️
Bracts brutality. ✔️
Hot, steamy, make your panties wet love fests. ✔️✔️✔️
Betrayal. ✔️
Informants, family drama, unplanned pregnancy! Yes, yes and yes!

If you have never read one of her books before I highly recommend her. She has a way of drawing you into the madness and you feel like you’re at the table with the familia.

Rowan’s transformation in this book is crazy. The twists and turns about who she really is and who she becomes are mind boggling. I’ve only read one other author that was able to pull this type of twist off.

Vince is the morally gray, bad boy who gets what he wants when he wants it. Consequences be damned. No one tells him no or speaks up against him. But when he meets the mousy, timid Rowan something changes him. He wants to get to know her, at first to just break her but then like the Grinch his heart grows and he wants to own her yes but also he wants to provide and protect her.

This love story wrecked me. Completely and utterly in the best way. And now if you’ll excuse me I will be going to buy book 2 so I can see what happens after the massive cliff hanger she left me hanging on.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Victoria Rebecca Hawkes · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m in love with my boss. He doesn’t even know I exist. … Until today. My name is Rowan St. Clair.
For five years, I’ve tried to pretend I’m not head over heels for a man I can never Vincent Akopov—gorgeous, ruthless, and completely out of my league. But one fateful errand changes everything. When I walk in on him thoroughly “occupied” with another woman, I expect embarrassment. Instead, I get a saucy wink that sets my body on fire. And the next day? A promotion I never asked for. "Congratulations, Ms. St. Clair. You're my new personal assistant." Suddenly, I'm thrust into Vincent's world—Park Avenue penthouses, private jets, and a boss whose meetings put the "DIC" in "dictation." He tests my limits. Filthy promises whispered in my ear in the middle of a boardroom, explicit Polaroids left in unexpected places, sneaky gropes in dark hallways… And I push back. Sexts send both ways, after all. Our game escalates with each passing day. There's just one to inherit his father's empire, Vince needs a wife. So guess who gets to accompany him on every awkward get-to-know-you date? Me—sitting beside him, trying to ignore his hands wandering up my skirt while he interviews potential brides. I tell myself it's just physical. Just temporary. Just a fantasy that will end when reality comes knocking. And reality does indeed knock— In the form of two pink lines on a pregnancy test.

This Mafia book is full of intense scenes and dark romance. I love how the chemistry slowly and gradually builds throughout the book. I love how the story was filled with teasing notes and lingering looks I was definitely intrigued on how the it continued. The story line flows really well from beginning to end. Nicole Fox has gone and done it again and written another fabulous book which I would highly recommend anyone to read.