Brutal Games

by Lila Sharp

First he murdered my brother.

Then he vowed to break me.

Some reputations are exaggerated in the Bratva. Dmitri Novikov’s is not.

Brutal. Sadistic. Unrepentant.

And now his sights are set on me.

Electricity scorches across my skin with each domineering glance. Hatred wars against searing need as he pushes me to my breaking point.

He’s going to have to fight for every inch of my submission.

But the night I’m dragged into an alley, Dmitri appears from the shadows like a demented guardian angel.

He erases the man for the sin of touching something that belongs to him.

His prey. His kitten. His obsession.

As he stalks me through the city while my enemies close in…

I realize I need the biggest monster of them all to stay alive.

“All you have to do is beg, kotenok, and I’ll give you everything you’re craving.”

Brutal Games is a scorching hot mafia romance standalone with forced proximity, a morally gray obsessed MMC, and the only woman who can break down his walls.

Genres: Dark Romance, Enemies To Lovers, Mafia Romance

Unknown Binding

Expected publication January 21, 2026

About the author

Lila Sharp is a dark mafia romance author who crafts moments so hot you’ll feel like you’re biting a jalapeño. She loves creating characters who grapple with their inner demons on their way to a happily ever after. When she isn’t writing about morally grey men that make you question your morals or ruthless mobsters who'd burn the world down for their woman, she’s devouring another book on her never-ending TBR.

Reviews

[Julia Curtis 🌷 · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC READ
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This was my first ever read by Lila Sharp and I'm soooo happy she picked me to be one of her arc readers!! The tension between Alisa and Dmitri was hottttt 🔥🔥 the back and forth from the beginning literally kept me flipping the page until 3 A.M! I absolutely loved the tension but what I loved more was when these enemies finally became lovers, the way Dmitri would burn the world down for Alisa was EVERYTHING. I loved how possessive yet caring he was because Alisa had never really had that in her life. I also loved how Alisa would truly do anything for Dmitri, these two truly had a love like no other. I'm personally not an enemies to lovers girl but this made me rethink all my decisions because this was definitely a 5 star read for me. These two were just everything and I can't wait to read more by Lila Sharp!!!

TROPES
✨Dark romance
✨Bravata romance
✨Enemies to Lovers
✨HES OBSESSED

SPICY REVIEW - 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

❤️‍🔥PRAISE KINK
❤️‍🔥LIGHT PAIN KINK
❤️‍🔥ONE BED
❤️‍🔥HE LOVES GIVING HICKEYS

[NicolBackBooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

I need to collect my thoughts before I come back here with my official review. I gotta breathe.

Ok here we are phewwwww

**ARC**

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Brutal Games – Lila Sharp

This was a five-star read for me, no hesitation.

Brutal Games is a dark, brutal mafia romance that throws you straight into an enemies-to-lovers dynamic and never lets you breathe. The story opens with the MMC, Dmitri, killing the FMC’s brother — and somehow, against all logic, that moment becomes the foundation of one of the most intense and emotionally charged relationships I’ve read in a while.

Alisa has grown up inside the Bratva, shaped by violence, control, and fear. Her upbringing was traumatic in every sense of the word — including a father who broke her down physically and emotionally until survival became instinct. Dmitri’s past is no gentler. He’s feared for a reason: a killer, a monster in the eyes of the mafia, hardened by his own brutal childhood. What struck me most was how their shared trauma quietly mirrors each other, creating a connection that feels raw, damaged, and painfully real.

The premise of the brutal competition — where members of the Bratva complete deadly missions to earn points toward becoming the Pakhan’s heir — adds constant tension and stakes. Dmitri is already leading, completely untouchable, while Alisa is struggling to survive in a system designed to crush her. She hates him, rightfully so, and yet he cannot stop thinking about her. His obsession begins as something dark and dangerous… and slowly turns into protection, loyalty, and something far deeper than either of them wants to admit.

What made this book stand out for me wasn’t just the violence or the spice — it was the emotional evolution. Watching Dmitri crack, watching him learn how to care, how to protect without destroying, and how to love someone when he’s never been shown love himself was incredibly compelling. His obsession with Alisa is absolute: no one touches her, no one looks at her, no one even breathes too close without consequences. And yet, beneath all of that brutality is a man learning what it means to choose someone.

Alisa doesn’t come to him weak or submissive — she comes broken but resilient, angry but strong, and unwilling to forgive easily. Their relationship earns every shift from hatred to desire to devotion, and that slow, painful transition is what makes it so satisfying.

Dmitri is officially a new book boyfriend for me — dark, dangerous, obsessive, and fiercely protective in a way that feels earned, not performative. This book is violent, intense, and emotionally heavy, but it also delivers a love story that feels forged in fire rather than convenience.

If you love dark mafia romance with high stakes, morally gray characters, and an enemies-to-lovers arc that actually hurts before it heals, Brutal Games is absolutely worth the read.

[Leanna Streeter · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was another mafia romance for me, which I already love, and Brutal Games absolutely did not disappoint. Dark, intense, and addictive, this was the kind of story that pulls you into a brutal world and refuses to let go.

The atmosphere is ruthless and heavy from the start—full of power plays, violence, and morally gray choices. Dmitri is exactly the type of dangerous, obsessive mafia lead you expect going into a book like this, and the story never tries to soften him into something he isn’t. The tension between him and Alisa is built on control, resistance, and survival, which made their dynamic feel volatile, layered, and constantly charged.

What really worked for me was how relentless the pacing felt. There was always something happening, another confrontation, another shift in power, another moment that twisted the emotional knife. It’s dark romance through and through, but it still had enough emotional weight beneath the brutality to keep me invested in both characters, not just the shock factor.

Overall, this was a solid mafia romance that delivers exactly what it promises: darkness, obsession, intensity, and high-stakes tension. If you love your romances brutal, morally gray, and unapologetically intense, this one is definitely worth picking up. Thanks to the author for the gifted ARC.

[Kyla · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC review

Let me just say a huge thank you to the author for letting me read this because I devoured this it. I read this book in one sitting. I love the mafia competition she used, the hate and attraction of the MC, and oh how the spice hit just right. This book didn't have a dull moment it just kept you wanting more.
Alisa battles to stay in the competition while trying to stay under the radar. Dimitri is living at the top as heir apparent and a man who is feared. They are both trying to survive the Pakhan and his games while fighting an attraction they don't want. Thrust together for a mission leaves them both trying to get done before one of them break. Emotions are high and things keep getting more tangled up as the competition gets closer to it's end.
Lila Sharp has wrote an amazing fast paced enemies to lovers, forced proximity, and touch her and die book. This is my first ever book of her and I can't wait to see what she has in store next. This is definitely a book I highly recommend reading and is one of my new favorites.

[Tyesha Nauslar · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW.
I absolutely loved this book. Before I knew it I was on Chapter 30. It was a book I picked up and the absolutely couldn’t put down. The spice was 💫amazing💫 I mean if you’re wanting to read something for the SMUT this is the book for that! If you love a man who will burn the world down for his woman then you will absolutely adore Dimitri. We also love a women who will accept help from the man with money without questioning it or telling him he can’t help. Probably my favorite attributes of Alisa. I would absolutely recommend this book to anyone !

[Naomi Ortiz · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is 🌶🌶🌶🌶

The pakhan has a competition to see who is going to be the next heir . This competition is based on a point system where they are required to either off people or get information . If you fail any mission given then you are offed as well.

Alisa is tasked with ending her own brother and when she cant and begs the #1 competitor in the competition to kill her instead , he decides to end ger brother for her because now he is obsessed with her. Obsessed with the fact that someone else can love someone so much to risk their own life.

Now Dmitri is obsessed and will follow her everywhere to make sure she is safe and will make sure everyone knows shes his ....no matter how much she fights it.

fav quotes:

"You aren't allowed to die yet, Alisa." Dmitri's gaze scorched against my skin. "Not before I break you."




"So you missed the fun part," he said flatly. "Fun part?" I said, certain his version of fun was the complete opposite of my own. "The part," he said, his eyes narrowing, "where I sliced off every single body part of the man who dared touch you."





"Should I cut off his right or left hand first?" I asked, tilting my head as I assessed the desperate look in the guy's eyes. "He touched you without permission, so it's only fair I deprive him of the use of them."






Why do I get the feeling that respectful is the last thing you want me to be?"





"For the rest of the weekend, I'm going to picture all these marks carefully hidden under your clothes." He bit down on the curve of my hip. "And every time you adjust your clothing or feel a ripple of soreness, you'll be reminded of who owns your entire body."




My grip tightened on her hips. "Careful kitten, or I'll make you come while Jayden breathes his last breaths." Her pupils dilated. Kinky girl. Just my type.




But people weren't just one action, one moment. They were the sum of the laughter, and silent solidarity, and quiet friendship. I couldn't hate her, couldn't bringmyself to come close to feeling that way about her. I didn't want to kill her. Didn't want to be the type of person who killed the people they cared about.



Our world was full of people like my mother who'd murdered my brother, because she thought he was weak. Or the men who ordered their mistresses killed when they grew tired of them. I never expected someone to tell me to kill them instead of their family member. To be willing to die for love. Loving so fully was dangerous.

[Samantha Alejandro · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first read from Lila Sharp, and it came to me as an ARC and what an introduction. Violent, intense, and deeply emotional, Brutal Games took everything I thought I wanted from a dark romance and pushed it further.

From the beginning, the story throws you into a world of calculated violence, psychological control, and deep moral grayness. It gave me serious John Wick vibes only more layered with obsession, betrayal, and emotional warfare. But what really surprised me was the love story at the heart of it. Twisted? Absolutely. But also deeply compelling.

This isn’t your typical romance, and definitely not your typical enemies-to-lovers arc. Their connection is built on control, defiance, and emotional unraveling. It’s dark, but it’s not hollow. It’s a story about survival, dominance, and what love looks like when it’s filtered through trauma.

Some scenes genuinely stayed with me like Dmitri’s realization that he loves Alisa, even if he doesn’t say it the way most people would. His version of protection is obsessive and controlling, but also rooted in care. Sewing trackers into her clothes? Absolutely insane… and yet, somehow, I felt that love. That’s the tone of this entire story: every gesture is twisted, but never without purpose.

And then there’s Alisa, who completely carried the emotional arc for me. The only love she had ever known was the instinct to protect; first her mother, from an abusive father, and then her brother in a game that would ultimately reshape her forever. She never learned how to be loved, only how to survive for someone else. Watching her slowly realize she might be worthy of love, protection, and care even in the most unrecognizable form was heartbreaking and powerful.

The spice is there but never gratuitous. It never overshadows the story, only intensifies it. The pacing is sharp, the world-building clear, and the character work tight. Every decision, every emotional shift, feels earned.

This book made me question my morals. I caught myself rooting for choices I wouldn’t normally stand behind, but that’s the brilliance of it. It doesn’t ask for your approval, only your attention. And it gets it.

Lila Sharp made an impression and I’ll definitely be picking up more from her.

[Audrey · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wanted enemies to lovers and that’s exactly what I got. He literally killed her brother…

There’s a competition between the members of the mafia in order to become the new leader so Alisa and Dimitri are also competing against each other. I’ve never seen that in a mafia book which I thought was so cool.

I love Alisa’s character so much. She’s seen as fragile and weak, but she doesn’t let that stop her. She drugs her targets, but she actually microdoses herself to make herself more immune to the drugs because the targets always notice when she poisons their drinks so she actually poisons her own. Like excuse me???

DIMITRI is literally stone cold and doesn’t take shit from no one. Then Alisa decides to defy him so what does he do?? He becomes obsessed with the one person who isn’t afraid of him. There’s a scene where she gets drugged at a club and he’s driving her home, but he asks her where she lives and the entire time he’s just thinking in his head “I already know this.” He’s also supposed to listen to every single thing the leader says (including not killing his men unless being told to do so), but when someone hurts Alisa he doesn’t even hesitate. EVEN THOUGH THAT MEANS HE WOULD LITERALLY DIE IF THE LEADER FOUND OUT IT WAS HIM. She’s literally his only weakness.

I don’t like that he calls her kitten, but that’s just a me thing. Also the beginning is a slower burn, but once it starts there is definitely A LOT of spice throughout the rest of the book so just be prepared. I do wish there was a longer buildup between them, but since there was a time jump in the beginning it kind of helped that.

[Betty Wong · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good solida mafia romance! There are all the things you expect from a Bratva romance: dark tropes, violence, morally inept characters. And it does make for a delicious book.
What I found interesting is the dynamic of these two as competitors for the role of heir to the Pakhan (or boss) yet they seemed to be in two different levels of sinister-type behavior. Both were lethal in their own way.
Starting with Dmitri. He’s as ruthless as it comes: definitely a cold killer but his weakness is Alisa. And how does that make him way hot!!! He’ll crack skulls at a drop of a hat but no one better make her cry! I love that.
Then there’s Alisa. She’s pretty interesting in that she’s also a cold killer but there is a big lack of standing up for herself that I felt she hid from everyone including herself.
The book pacing is quick! And I will say I read this book quick even though there was a lot of content. There’s an underlying storyline as it relates to Dmitri and Alisa’s family and their self serving needs driving their upbringing which I really loved as it weaved with their own love story.
Spicy, steamy and a complete bad ass mafia romance!!

[Jess Blanton · Rating 4 out of 5]

I knew from the very last sentence of the first chapter that I was going to love these characters! I love a soft(ish) FMC that blatantly defies a big, bad alpha MMC 😆

I'm ALWAYS a sucker for a mafia romance, but I REALLY like how Brutal Games takes the Mafia trope and twists the plot. This is not your typical Mafia and I've never read of a competition like the one this story is built around. The offspring of the big players are NOT treated like Mafia Princes/Princesses.
Even though it is written so differently, it is still inundated with the Mafia life.

The song Theeeese Brutal Gaaames was in my head for 2 days! Then I remembered that Jewel sings These Foolish Games, not Brutal Games 😆....but Brutal Games definitely fits!

[Eli · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review
4.5 ⭐️

I absolutely loved this book—it’s the kind of story that grabs you from the very first page and doesn’t let go until the end. Dmitri’s obsession with the heroine is intense and all-consuming; he’s dominant, possessive, and would burn the world down just to keep her safe.

Packed with mafia drama, passion, and romance, the story unfolds as a brutal game of power led by a ruthless crime boss who constantly tests the protagonists’ loyalty.

Dark, addictive, and emotionally charged, this novel by Lila Sharp delivers everything you’d want in a gripping mafia romance.

[Kassie Bates · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75⭐️ this one was gooood and spicy. I would’ve like to see Alisa be more strong then a damsel in distress when she’s in the bratva, but i love our poison princess! Dmitri is our dark grumpy dirty mouthed bad ass.
He really was so hot! Loved the tension and character development.

The scene in the library? Come onnnnnnn 🥵🥵🥵

[Danielle Lawson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sharp’s writing keeps the tension high, blending emotional depth with gritty romance. While the themes may not be for everyone, fans of dark romance will find this book gripping and hard to put down.

[Mel · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Rating: ★★★★★
ARC Read

Brutal Games by Lila Sharp is a dark Russian mafia romance that fully embraces its name; brutal in action, intense in emotion, and unapologetically obsessive at its core. This is a story where hatred and desire collide, where survival depends on aligning yourself with the most dangerous man in the room, and where love is forged through control, defiance, and slow-burning surrender.

From the opening premise, the stakes are impossibly high. Dmitri Novikov is everything his reputation promises; ruthless, sadistic, and terrifyingly powerful. The man who murdered her brother should be her greatest enemy, yet circumstances force him into the role of protector. What unfolds between them is a volatile enemies-to-lovers dynamic layered with dominance, resistance, and an undeniable pull neither of them can escape.

One of the strongest aspects of Brutal Games is its pacing. The slow burn is deliberate and effective, allowing the tension to build naturally rather than relying on shock value. The dominance and submission elements are woven into the emotional arc, not just the physical connection, making their relationship feel earned and deeply psychological. Every interaction crackles with power struggles, defiance, and control, keeping the reader constantly on edge.

Despite the darkness, this book has heart; and all the feels. The FMC’s trauma, shaped by abusive parental figures and loss, is handled with emotional weight. Her resilience, even when pushed to her breaking point, makes her a compelling and strong counterpart to Dmitri’s obsession. Watching her fight him at every turn, refusing to submit easily, only makes their dynamic more intoxicating.

The spice level is perfectly balanced. It never overwhelms the story, instead enhancing the tension and emotional stakes. The dark scenes hit hard without becoming gratuitous, and the restraint in pacing makes the moments of intimacy feel more powerful when they arrive. Quite frankly, the balance between darkness, emotion, and spice is near perfect.

What truly elevates Brutal Games is the emotional impact. This isn’t just a mafia romance built on violence and control; it’s a story about survival, twisted protection, and finding safety in the most dangerous place imaginable. The MMC’s touch her and die energy is strong, but it’s paired with an unsettling devotion that makes him impossible to look away from.

If I had one critique, it would be… nothing. I genuinely wouldn’t change a thing. The story knows exactly what it wants to be and executes it flawlessly.

I would absolutely recommend Brutal Games to readers who enjoy dark mafia romance, enemies-to-lovers with a true slow burn, dominant/submissive dynamics, and emotionally heavy stories that don’t shy away from triggering or confronting themes. This book is intense, addictive, and unforgettable; a dark romance that fully commits to the game it’s playing and wins.

[Tanvi · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you like dark romances, morally gray characters, super-alpha heroes, edgy sex scenes, and mafia stories, you’ll enjoy this one!

Dimitri + Alisa | Dark romance | HOT sex 🥵

Quick-ish summary: Dimitri and Alisa are thrown into a completely fucked-up Bratva game where the goal is simple: be the last one alive (and on top of the points table). The prize - the bratva throne! Dimitri first notices Alisa when he “saves” her in a situation that ends with her brother's death — yeah, that kind of story. Sparks, and fucked-up situations, abound when they are paired by the Bratva leader in the increasingly dangerous and brutal "games". I kept reading not just to see if they’d end up together(duh!), but to see how the hell they’d even survive — and at what cost.

I ended up devouring this book in one go!!!

Dimitri is as morally gray as it gets. He is definitely cunning, calculating and sadistic enough to survive and thrive in the bratva. The book doesn't even try to soften him - which I enjoyed! And boy does he get Alisa in all her mess-up, kinky glory! When he aims for something, he goes behind it no holds barred! Did I mention the hot sex scenes?!!

Alisa… I have mixed feelings. She’s surviving the Bratva by the tips of her fingernails, and sometimes pure luck. I wanted her kick more ass. For an assassin in the Bratva — sorry — she needed way too much saving for me to fully buy it. And at times I just wanted to shake her. Like… if you poison people for a living, are you really going to drink something that wasn’t poured in front of you?? Come on.

I liked the story, it did keep me wanting more — more pages, more relationship drama with her parents, more of her bestie Gemma. I really thought Gemma was going to have some secret connections to rival Bratvas or something. There was no other reason she kept attracting their attention. And the escape offer to Alisa? It came out of nowhere. And then… just got dropped.

I got pulled in fast. I cared about Dimitri & Alisa. And the sex scenes? Yeah — you’ll need water. Dimitri and Alisa’s chemistry jumps off the page, even while you’re sitting there thinking, “Girl…you are literally into your brother’s killer.” And the author never lets you forget that, either.

This isn’t a perfect book. I cut a star coz I wanted the female lead to be more, just more! Some things worked for me, some didn’t. But I was hooked, I felt things, and I definitely didn’t get bored — which honestly matters more to me than perfection.

Note: I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Novellaworm · Rating 4 out of 5]

Brutal Games by Lila Sharp was my first introduction to this author, and it left a lasting impression.

From the opening chapters, this story establishes a world steeped in violence, power, and moral ambiguity. Dmitri Novikov is exactly the kind of MMC dark romance readers are warned about—brutal, obsessive, and unapologetically dangerous. His reputation within the Bratva is well-earned, and the story never attempts to soften him for reader comfort.

What surprised me most, though, was how emotionally layered this book turned out to be.

This is not a conventional enemies-to-lovers romance. The connection between Dmitri and Alisa is built through control, defiance, and psychological tension rather than trust or tenderness. Their relationship is twisted, intense, and often uncomfortable—but never empty. Every interaction feels deliberate, charged, and rooted in character rather than shock value.

Dmitri’s version of love is deeply obsessive and controlling. His gestures of protection are extreme—sometimes outright unhinged—but they are never without intention. The story consistently asks the reader to sit in that discomfort and decide where their own moral lines lie.

Alisa, however, is the emotional heart of the novel. Her entire life has revolved around survival and protection—first of her mother, then her brother. She has never been allowed to believe she deserves safety or care for herself. Watching her slowly confront that belief, and begin to question whether she might be worthy of love in any form, was both heartbreaking and powerful.

The romance is dark, but it carries emotional weight. The spice is present and intense, yet it never overshadows the story. Instead, it heightens the tension and deepens the character dynamics. The pacing is tight, the world-building clear, and the emotional beats feel earned rather than rushed

Lila Sharp delivered a violent, emotionally charged, and thought-provoking dark romance, and I’ll definitely be reading more from her.

Tropes & Themes:
• Russian Mafia
• Enemies to Lovers
• Forced Proximity
• Morally Grey, Obsessive MMC
• Protective/Controlling Love
• Poison Princess FMC
• Praise
• “Mine”
• “Eyes on me”
• BDSM

Highly recommended for readers who enjoy dark romance that leans fully into the gray.

Thank you for the ARC

[Faiza BEGUM · Rating 5 out of 5]

*Brutal Games* by Lila Sharp was my first experience with this author, and it set the bar high in the most unsettling way.

From the very beginning, the novel drops the reader into a ruthless environment shaped by crime, dominance, and blurred morality. Dmitri Novikov embodies everything dark romance readers are cautioned about: he is merciless, possessive, and frighteningly unapologetic. As a figure within the Bratva, his cruelty is not exaggerated or excused—the narrative allows him to remain exactly as dangerous as his reputation suggests.

What I didn’t expect was the depth beneath all that brutality. This story doesn’t follow a traditional romantic arc, and it certainly isn’t a soft enemies-to-lovers tale. The bond between Dmitri and Alisa grows through power struggles, resistance, and intense psychological push-and-pull rather than affection or mutual safety. Their dynamic is warped and unsettling, yet it never feels hollow. Every exchange carries purpose and tension, driven by who they are rather than by gratuitous shock.

Dmitri’s idea of love is consuming and absolute. His need to protect manifests in ways that are extreme—sometimes disturbing—but always deliberate. The book repeatedly challenges the reader to remain present in that discomfort and reflect on their own boundaries around obsession, control, and devotion.

Alisa, on the other hand, grounds the story emotionally. Her existence has been defined by endurance—first shielding her mother, then sacrificing herself for her brother. She has never had the luxury of believing she deserves peace or gentleness. Watching her slowly grapple with that mindset, and begin to wonder if she is allowed to want something for herself, was one of the most affecting parts of the novel.

While the romance is undeniably dark, it carries real emotional substance. The intimate scenes are intense, but they never overpower the narrative. Instead, they amplify the tension and reveal more about the characters’ inner worlds. The story moves with strong momentum, the setting feels fully realized, and the emotional moments land with impact rather than feeling forced.

Overall, Lila Sharp crafted a harsh, provocative, and emotionally resonant dark romance. It lingered with me long after I finished—and it ensured I’ll be picking up more of her work.

[Teresa Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was one of those books that slowly tightens its grip until you realize you’re completely consumed then slowly wrecks you. The enemies-to-lovers dynamic crackles with danger and desire, where attraction feels just as deadly as the violence surrounding them, and the heat only intensifies as the body count rises.

Overall Thoughts:
Overall, this was an emotional roller coaster at the beginning but by the end the tension between Dimitri and Alisa is *chefs kiss*.

The Romance & Chemistry:
The romance and chemistry were a major highlight for me. Dimitri clearly felt the pull first and tried to keep his distance (years of distance!), which only made the tension sharper and more emotionally charged. Watching that restraint slowly unravel as he could no longer stay away when they were forced to do jobs together made every interaction feel loaded with sexual tension. Watching Dimitri slowly pull Alisa out of the shadows and into her own personality helped the tension grow

Characters & Emotional Depth:
Both characters are layered with trauma and morally gray, which made their emotional journeys feel real and high-stakes. Their vulnerabilities, forced to be hidden by the game they had to play, made the moments of connection feel electric, and their growth throughout the story hit hard emotionally. Dimitri jumped headfirst into “touch her & ☠️” and kept his word, consequences be damned.

What Didn’t Fully Work for Me:
There were a few moments where there was no follow up on the situation and jumped immediately into something different. Then there were moments that perfectly lined up and I was wishing they were longer. I also with the FMC was a little more bratva badass and a little less damsel in distress.

The Spice 🌶️:
The intimacy in this book is 🔥🔥 and unapologetically intense. Dimitri’s desire is raw, possessive, and relentless, and the situations that bring them together are as twisted and dangerous as the world they live in.
Favorite quote: “Careful kitten, or I’ll make you cum while Jayden breathes his last breaths”

Recommendation:
The enemies-to-lovers tension, twisted situations, and relentless chemistry make it impossible to put down — and impossible to forget. Overall I would recommend this book to anybody who loves a morally grey MMC who likes to play hero with spicy scenes in questionable places.

[Elin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my second ARC read, and the moment I read the description I thought: hmm… dark romance, Bratva… this could be really good.
Let me tell you: it absolutely did not disappoint. What a book! 🤩

Also: first book of 2026 and already 5 stars!

Ratings
Spicy: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ 4/5
Plot: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨ 4.5/5
Characters: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨ 4.5/5
Overall: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨ 4.5/5

This book grabed me instantly. From the very first pages, especially the prologue, I was already thinking: oh damn. I loved how unpredictable the story was, and Alisa? She is such a badass FMC. Strong and soo brave.

And Dmitri… wow. He is an absolute dream of a man. The author promised a dominant and possessive MC, and Dmitri delivers on every level. The way he takes care of Alisa, even while seeing himself as a monster, was incredibly swoonworthy. I adored the contrast between his self-perception and the tenderness he shows her. It hit me right in the feels.

The writing itself is very strong, and the mental battle Alisa goes through feels heavy, raw, and realistic. The constant feeling of needing to protect her friends and parents, even at the cost of herself, really stuck with me. One quote in particular hit hard:

“I’d lived in this world of darkness and pain for so long that I needed to hold onto any moments of happiness.”

I don’t know why exactly, but that line felt incredibly beautiful to me. The same goes for:

“But people weren’t just one action, one moment.”

The story is dynamic and constantly shifting. Several times I thought I had the plot figured out, only for it to change direction again. I loved being kept on my toes like that. Its new and fresh and didn't feel like anything I've read before.

This book had everything I didn’t even realize I had been craving for a while. Hurt comfort, a brave and resilient FMC, and a solid, gripping storyline. I don’t want to give away too many spoilers because this book truly deserves to be experienced. I would reread it without hesitation.

I felt a constant urge to keep reading, even when I absolutely did not have the time. And the moment I finished, I couldn’t wait to post my review.

A huge thank you to the author for trusting me with this ARC. It was such a pleasure to read, and honestly, I already miss these characters.
Probably will re-read soon!

[MandysBookish Mind · Rating 5 out of 5]

The start of this book is intense, but it was absolutely necessary to set the tone for everything that follows. Dmitri, Alisa, and the others are thrown into a brutal game orchestrated by the pakhan to determine who will become his heir. The story follows their tasks and challenges, and the way their worlds begin to shift as the stakes rise. This is Bratva through and through, filled with danger, violence, power, and an intensity that never lets up.

Dmitri embodies the Bratva life completely. There’s no question about who he is or what he’s capable of. He’s ruthless when needed, decisive, and unflinching in the face of violence. Alisa, though, is just as formidable in her own way. The things she endures, physically and mentally, often without choice, and still continues to push forward are incredibly impressive. She refuses to be seen as weak or lesser simply because she’s a woman, and I loved that about her.

Together, their chemistry is unexpected and undeniable. Alisa tries to ignore it, while Dmitri fights it just as hard, knowing how dangerous those feelings could be for him. But it’s inevitable. Once they finally give in, watching Dmitri’s walls slowly crumble and his entire world narrow down to Alisa was incredibly satisfying. His care for her runs through the entire book, possessive, protective, and completely consuming in the way only a mafia romance can deliver.

This was such a great read for me. It flew by, and I barely realized how quickly I was turning the pages. I love a good mafia story, and this one absolutely hit the mark. Beyond that, the dialogue is sharp and witty, the spice is hot, and the book is packed with nonstop action that makes it impossible to put down. I received this book as an ARC and I’m leaving this honest review voluntarily.

and when you smile at me... I'm tempted to upend the world just so I can see a hint of it again.

[Mimi San Juan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Okay… this book?? Absolutely feral in the best way. I’m obsessed. If you love dark mafia romance with a simmering build that turns into absolute fire, Brutal Games is it.

The pacing is delicious, and the tension is unreal in a way that keeps you constantly on edge without ever feeling rushed. Lila Sharp really said, “here’s your emotional damage,” and made it completely worth it. I devoured this and didn’t want to come up for air. The dynamics between Dmitri and Alisa had my whole chest tight the entire time, and that blend of obsession, danger, and forced proximity worked incredibly well.

Also, the execution of this story is incredibly smart. 🤓 The dialogue is sharp, the plot is tight, and even though I’m far more familiar with Italian mafia stories, I never once felt lost in the Russian Bratva world. It’s gritty, intense, and fresh, but also expressed in a way that made it easy to understand and love. I was fully locked in!

Dmitri is such a well-done morally gray MMC. Dark, brutal, and magnetic. Everything he says made me pause like “wait… why is that hot?” and I regret absolutely nothing. 😂 The spicy scenes are completely earned and perfectly timed, hitting right when the tension is at its peak and delivering exactly what you’ve been waiting for. (trust me on this 🤤)

And can we seriously talk about how our FMC Alisa isn't a damsel in distress? You can fight me on this but her natural instinct to protect is so admirable, plus she's really sharp and come on, a cold killer! 😎

I’ll be thinking about this one for a while. If you’re into dangerous men, strong FMCS, enemies-to-something-way-hotter, and plots that don’t let up, please pick this one up when it drops on January 21st.

✋🏻Also, okay, I just want to clear it up: I was provided an advance readers copy of this book by the author. Buuut all opinions in this review are my own. 🫰🏻😉

[Kascha · Rating 3 out of 5]

A trauma-driven enemies-to-lovers mafia romance with obsession, passion, and softened stakes.

Alisa and Dmitri are shaped by brutal, unforgiving upbringings - raised within the Russian mafia and forced into a lifelong competition to determine who will become Pakhan. Their shared past is violent and isolating, and the trauma they carry is unmistakable.

Alisa’s history of abuse, grief, guilt, health issues, and SA is handled with weight, and her ability to compartmentalize everything during missions (adopting new identities to survive) is compelling. Dmitri is both her greatest rival and her most dangerous connection. As the mafia’s top contender for Pakhan and the man who committed an unforgivable act against her, he embodies the ultimate enemies-to-lovers setup. His obsession borders on stalking, with a touch her and die mentality that fuels their twisted, intensely possessive relationship.

Their chemistry is undeniable. The sexual tension is explosive, and the open-door scenes are frequent, creative, and undeniably steamy, with only a handful of brief closed-door moments. For readers seeking passion and obsession, this aspect of the story delivers.

Where the book fell short for me was in the execution of its darker elements. Despite frequent missions and acts of violence (poisonings, torture, etc.) the stakes rarely felt truly high. Threats were often resolved quickly, with characters rescued before serious harm could occur, which lessened the intensity. As a result, the story leaned more toward healing and learning to love past trauma rather than fully embracing the darkness of a mafia romance.

Additionally, several plot points felt skimmed over, particularly those involving Alisa’s best friend Gemma. Her relationships and personal safety seemed deserving of more focus, and expanding on those threads could have added depth and emotional payoff.

[Katie Murphy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Now this book is what I mean when I say I want an enemies to lovers romance 👏🏼

The first thing you need to know is our two main characters Alisa and Dimitri are both in competition with one another. Long story short the Pakhan has no heirs of his own and he has designed a competition where the winner will be his heir. Dimitri is currently the leader of this competition while our FMC would also be in the top rank.

Our main characters first encounter is very full on… Alisa is given an order from the Pakhan to remove her brother permanently, Dimitri walks in on the conversation she has with her brother and that she is going to refuse the order. Dimitri takes matters into his own hands and unalives Alisa’s brother. Yep these two were definitely not off to a good start👀.

Now Alisa is quite cunning and in order to take out her targets and move up in rank she poisons them. She has trained her body to become immune also - in short she is definitely not a woman to be underestimated. Now she has caught Dimitri’s eye which means he would deliberately show up on her missions or in places where she would specifically be. But that’s not all as while each competitor would have their own solo missions to fulfill the Pakhan has decided there will be duo missions and you guessed it Alisa and Dimitri are a perfect pair.

The tension between these two characters you could cut with a spoon and honestly this building tension was impeccable when it finally snapped. It’s quite clear these characters had good chemistry and I loved their back and forth banter. Alisa was certainly not afraid to give Dimitri a piece of her mind and he loved that about her🤦🏻‍♀️

Overall this is my first book by this author and it most certainly won’t be the last as I enjoyed Alisa and Dimitri’s story. Thank you to the author who provided this e-arc for my honest thoughts 💭

[Mandy Britt · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Masterclass in High-Stakes Obsession: A Review of Brutal Games
​Lila Sharp’s Brutal Games is a compelling entry into the dark mafia subgenre, marked by high-stakes tension and a sophisticated execution of the "obsessed hero" archetype. As a first-time reader of Sharp’s work, I was particularly impressed by the narrative’s relentless pacing and the palpable friction between Alisa and Dmitri. The novel thrives on power plays and psychological tension, presenting a male lead who is dangerous and uncompromising, yet grounded by a singular, all-encompassing devotion to the heroine.
​The enemies-to-lovers progression is handled with remarkable depth, as the transition from volatile resistance to a protective "burn-the-world-down" loyalty feels earned rather than rushed. This evolution is both intense and layered, effectively challenging the conventions of traditional romance tropes. Dmitri embodies the quintessential morally gray lead, yet his possessive nature provides a necessary emotional anchor for Alisa, a character whose history of isolation makes their bond even more impactful.
​Throughout the story, Sharp maintains a visceral and heavy atmosphere, successfully immersing the reader in a world of mafia-driven survival. The narrative momentum is exceptional, sustaining a high level of engagement from the opening chapters to the conclusion. While the themes are unapologetically dark and the characters' choices are often morally ambiguous, the emotional weight beneath the brutality remains the central focus. Brutal Games is a sophisticated, five-star read that delivers exactly what it promises: intensity, obsession, and a love story that refuses to let go.
​I received a complimentary advance review copy of this book from the author, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Bethany Gibbs · Rating 5 out of 5]

💀Brutal games by Lila sharp 💀
~ARC review~

This book is for the mafia romance lovers, who loves enemies to lovers, obsessed MMCs and the touch her and die vibes. Because this man would LITERALLY burn the world down for her and wouldn’t even think twice about it!

The name of this book literally says it all and i absolutely loved the concept of this one! We have a Pahkan who never had children on his own, so to ensure he had a strong heir he started up a competition of sorts, where the competitors must complete missions to rack up the points to become number 1. And let’s just say our man Dmitri ranked NO.1 is an absolute force to be reckoned with. This man has lived through all the cruel things life has to throw at you and has become utterly ruthless and unstoppable. That is till one night when someone turned his world upside down. He become obsessed, absolutely enthralled with this woman that he knew if he got just one taste, that he could never go back.

Alisa, our fmc knows she should hate the man who took the one thing she truly loved in this world away from her. But when she is partnered up with Dmitri to complete new takes set by the Pakhan, she is binding it harder and harder not to blur the lines between lust and hate!

Both our MCs have had pasts which are unbearable, but watching Alisa bring out the side of Dmitri he never thought he could be, and him showing Alisa that she no longer has to suffer alone, you really do see just how much their love is stronger then anything!
This book has truly left its mark on my heart and I honestly need more of Lila’s work 😍 with the perfect balance between the story and the spice this is definitely a book you are going to devour!

[Mrs Honey · Rating 4 out of 5]

📚 ARC Review
If you are looking for a spicy standalone book that is an easy read which leaves you satisfied then I do suggest reading Brutal Games by Lila Sharp.

This is a dark romance, enemies to lovers, slow burn where the first intimacy is not until later. But when it happens it does not stop!

This book is told from both the FMC and the MMC POV so you get every thought and emotion from both sides.

I enjoyed this book and will read again. Alisa is not as strong as you think she would be, being a killer for the mob. A damsel in distress if you like. Personally I was slightly unsure about this at first because I like a strong FMC. But I do love a knight in shining armor story as well. But this knight is in black with his hands stained RED, and just my type lol! I got so engulfed in this book that I didn’t put it down until I couldn’t keep my eyes open.
Finished in less than 24 hours after starting it.

Spoilers-DO NOT KEEP READING IF YOU DO NOT WANT ME TO SPOIL PARTS OF THE BOOK!!

Born into a deadly game you either follow the Pakhan’s rules or you die. The champion will become the next hair. There is no love in this world only violence to gain power.

Dimitri kills your bother and then vows to break you. You are poison princess whose targets only see you as a pair of boobs. Everybody thinks you are weak and disposable and you have a hard mask and hid behind disguises hoping to achieve a higher rank in this Brutal Game.

As luck would have it Alisa is partnered up with the enemy who killed her brother. He calls her a kitten but realizes something is different about her.

Now a spicy spoiler…..
Dmitri helps Alisa beat a man and choke him to death while taking her from behind! The man takes his final breath as she finds her release.

Do I have your attention now?!

[Akku · Rating 5 out of 5]

✦ 𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 - 5✨

✦ 𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞 - Jan 21, 2026

✦ 𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬 -
• Enemies to Lovers
• mafia romance
• touch her and die
• morally grey hero
• strong heroine
• slow burn romance
• forced proximity
• high stakes & danger

✦ 𝐌𝐲 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 -
Brutal Games is a dark mafia romance about Alisa trapped between hatred and survival after her brother is murdered by a ruthless Bratva enforcer Dmitri Novikov. When danger closes in, the same man who vowed to break her becomes her most dangerous protector. Enemies, obsession and forced proximity turn their hate into something far more intense.
This book completely owned me from the first chapter.
The story is dark, intense and full of action scenes that kept my heart racing. Dmitri is dangerously protective, obsessive and absolutely unhinged in the best way. I loved him so much. His “touch her and you die” energy was everything I want in a mafia man. Dmitri is always there for Alisa, saving her every single time, like protecting her is his only purpose.
Alisa is strong, smart and fearless. She does not break easily and that made me love her even more.
Their relationship is a perfect slow burn filled with tension, hate, desire and power struggles. The chemistry is intense, the spice is perfectly placed and the emotions hit hard.
This book is violent, risky and not soft at all, but that is exactly what makes it addictive. Every chapter pulls me deeper into their dangerous world. The ending was satisfying and powerful.
Easily a 5 star read for me and a highly recommended book for all my dark romance girls.
If you love mafia romance with a brutal hero, strong heroine, heavy protection and nonstop action, this book is for you.
Thank you so much to the author for the free ARC. 🖤✨

[Seqqua · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC review 3,5 ⭐️ a huge thank you to Lila for sending me this ARC. For it being my first one, I really enjoyed reading it.

❤️‍🔥mafia romance
❤️‍🔥touch her and die
❤️‍🔥possessive MMC
❤️‍🔥enemies to lovers (kinda)

Was this the best book ever? No, not really. Was it entertaining enough for me to binge read it? Definitely.

This book was pretty good actually. Aside from every single male character being somehow obsessed with Alissa’s breasts and besides Dmitri being able to break bones with his bare hands (sorry those two things were pretty funny to me) I enjoyed this book.

The idea of the Pakhan holding a competition to decide his heir was original and immediately drew me in. These Brutal Games were merciless and our characters had to do what was necessary to survive. One of them enjoyed it tho, don’t worry.

Alissa was a nice character. She had compassion and goodness about her that was severely lacking in the situation she was born into. She would do anything for the ones she loved, even if it put her into impossible situations. She did her best to survive, but I wouldn’t be mad if she was more badass. She gave off damsel in distress vibes. But I have to say her microdosong and poisoning her targets was sick (in a good way).

Dmitri on the other hand… oh I loved him. He was dark and ruthless and so obsessed and possessive, exactly what you want from a mafia romance MMC. I liked that he never pretended to be something he isn’t and remained the same until the end of the book. Massive touch her and die vibes and I ate it up.

Overall if you love mafia romance, you will enjoy this book. I most certainly did.

[Jana Taylor · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first read by Lila Sharp and what a wild, adrenaline‑spiked ride it turned out to be. I’m a complete sucker for an enemies‑to‑lovers arc—especially when it involves an unhinged, laser‑focused mafia man—and Dimitri delivers exactly that energy.

𝚆𝚑𝚢 𝚍𝚘 𝙸 𝚐𝚎𝚝 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚏𝚎𝚎𝚕𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚛𝚎𝚜𝚙𝚎𝚌𝚝𝚏𝚞𝚕 𝚒𝚜 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚕𝚊𝚜𝚝 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚠𝚊𝚗𝚝 𝚖𝚎 𝚝𝚘 𝚋𝚎?

Alisa enters the story with an impossible task: kill her own brother. When she can’t bring herself to do it, she begs the top competitor in their deadly contest to end her instead. But Dimitri, fascinated by her loyalty and the depth of her love, becomes instantly obsessed. Instead of killing her, he decides to take out her brother for her—and that’s where everything spirals deliciously out of control.

"𝚂𝚘 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚖𝚒𝚜𝚜𝚎𝚍 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚏𝚞𝚗 𝚙𝚊𝚛𝚝," 𝚑𝚎 𝚜𝚊𝚒𝚍 𝚏𝚕𝚊𝚝𝚕𝚢. "𝙵𝚞𝚗 𝚙𝚊𝚛𝚝?" 𝙸 𝚜𝚊𝚒𝚍, 𝚌𝚎𝚛𝚝𝚊𝚒𝚗 𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚟𝚎𝚛𝚜𝚒𝚘𝚗 𝚘𝚏 𝚏𝚞𝚗 𝚠𝚊𝚜 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚌𝚘𝚖𝚙𝚕𝚎𝚝𝚎 𝚘𝚙𝚙𝚘𝚜𝚒𝚝𝚎 𝚘𝚏 𝚖𝚢 𝚘𝚠𝚗. "𝚃𝚑𝚎 𝚙𝚊𝚛𝚝," 𝚑𝚎 𝚜𝚊𝚒𝚍, 𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚎𝚢𝚎𝚜 𝚗𝚊𝚛𝚛𝚘𝚠𝚒𝚗𝚐, "𝚠𝚑𝚎𝚛𝚎 𝙸 𝚜𝚕𝚒𝚌𝚎𝚍 𝚘𝚏𝚏 𝚎𝚟𝚎𝚛𝚢 𝚜𝚒𝚗𝚐𝚕𝚎 𝚋𝚘𝚍𝚢 𝚙𝚊𝚛𝚝 𝚘𝚏 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚖𝚊𝚗 𝚠𝚑𝚘 𝚍𝚊𝚛𝚎𝚍 𝚝𝚘𝚞𝚌𝚑 𝚢𝚘𝚞."

The emotional stakes climb higher with every chapter, the competition tightens, and the tension between Alisa and Dimitri becomes its own kind of battlefield. Sharp keeps the pace relentless, the chemistry scorching, and the danger ever‑present. It’s fast, feral, and addictive in the best way.

"𝚈𝚘𝚞 𝚊𝚛𝚎𝚗'𝚝 𝚊𝚕𝚕𝚘𝚠𝚎𝚍 𝚝𝚘 𝚍𝚒𝚎 𝚢𝚎𝚝, 𝙰𝚕𝚒𝚜𝚊." 𝙳𝚖𝚒𝚝𝚛𝚒'𝚜 𝚐𝚊𝚣𝚎 𝚜𝚌𝚘𝚛𝚌𝚑𝚎𝚍 𝚊𝚐𝚊𝚒𝚗𝚜𝚝 𝚖𝚢 𝚜𝚔𝚒𝚗. "𝙽𝚘𝚝 𝚋𝚎𝚏𝚘𝚛𝚎 𝙸 𝚋𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚔 𝚢𝚘𝚞."

Lila Sharp made a serious impression with this one, and I’ll definitely be diving into more of her work.

Tropes & Vibes
Dark Romance
Bravata Romance
Enemies to Lovers
He’s Obsessed
Praise Kink
One Bed
He Loves Giving Hickeys 😏

[The Millennial Mood Reader · Rating 4 out of 5]

🖤Arc Review🖤

If you’re looking for a spicy, mafia/bratva with touch her and d!e vibes then look no further! I devoured this in less than 24 hours!

Dmitri and Alisa are both competing to be the Pakhans next heir. Dmitri is every bit the cold, ruthless,morally grey MMC you’d expect. Alisa is clever and fierce and not willing to back down from the challenge. Alisa is forced into this being born into the bratva world. She’s suffered years of abuse at the hands of her horrible father. She also suffered from ptsd and dissociates when triggered by a past SA(check TW)

At the beginning of the book an event takes place that causes Alisa to despise Dmitri. Flash forward a couple years and now they’re forced to work together during the pakhans assigned missions. Along the lines of their team work both cannot stop the insane chemistry they have for each other. The banter and chemistry between these two is 🥵🔥🥵 I love a hate to love dynamic and this delivered! The plot about the bratva is really good and unique with it being a point system and competition to determine the heir and next Pakhan. This book has plenty of spice so be ready! Also please check TW before reading.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
What to expect?!
Russian Mafia
Enemies to Lovers
Forced Proximity
Morally Grey MMC
Protective, Obsessive MMC
Poison Princess FMC
Touch her and 💀
Praise K!nk
Banter
🐝d$M
“Mine”
“Eyes.On.Me”

“I’ll gladly be the star of all your nightmares.”-Dmitri

“The only time your lips are wonderful is when they aren’t moving,”-Alisa

Thank You Lila Sharp for the eARC. All opinions are my own.