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Born into Obsession: A Dark Mafia Romance

Not yet published
Expected 27 Mar 26
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362 pages, Kindle Edition

Expected publication March 27, 2026

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148 people want to read

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Sonja Grey

25 books1,611 followers

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 233 reviews
Profile Image for Cherry (Rhysand's wife) .
251 reviews10 followers
Read
March 14, 2026
AAAAHHHHHHH AL FINNNNNN 🎉🎉🎉YA ME IBA A VOLVER LOCA SIN NOTICIAS, no saben lo feliz que soy ahora mismo 😭😭😭 (neta que Sonja me hizo brujería con los Melnikov ☝️)












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Profile Image for Kellyythoralabatalla.
1,061 reviews42 followers
Want to read
March 14, 2026
Los que estaba esperando este libro. TE AMO SONJA GREY POR DARME MAFIOSO MORALMENTE GRISES Y VÍRGENES 🥰🥰 BESO TU CEREBRO E IMAGINACIÓN
Profile Image for Sam.
461 reviews69 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
March 18, 2026
5 ⭐️/3 🌶️

Sonja has done it again! After Sasha’s blood-thirsty, intense story, we get Niki’s much sweeter, softer mafia romance and I absolutely loved the change of pace 🙌🏼

We met both Niki and Sav in the previous book and the little glimpses of chemistry between them are fully explored here. Niki was such a refreshing MMC. Instead of the typical ruthless mafia hero, he’s shy, introverted and honestly so adorable 💕 It made his character feel really genuine and different from what we usually get in this genre. And Sav was the perfect match for him! Sweet, kind and caring, but still strong in her own way.

Their moments together were so wholesome and cute that I had a silly grin on my face through most of their scenes. Their relationship just felt warm and natural ❤️

And of course, the cameos from the rest of the Melnikov family! I love those characters so much, so seeing them pop up throughout the book made it even better.

As always, Sonja delivers on the writing, the emotions, the plot and the spice. While this book isn’t as dark as some of her others, it still touches on heavier themes, so definitely check the trigger warnings before going in 🚨

Now I’m just sitting here impatiently waiting for Damien’s book! 😅

Tropes: Mafia romance, Hacker
Profile Image for Katie Murphy.
1,050 reviews101 followers
March 15, 2026
The Melnikov men I am absolutely obsessed and Niki is no obsession to this rule. If you haven’t read the first gen or second gen then the one thing you need to know is the Melnikov fall hard and are consumed entirely by their women. No one compares in their eyes and that is the way I like it😮‍💨 also the fact born into obsession is a completely accurate title for these two👏🏼

This book follows Niki and Sav and since we got a little sneak peak of them in Cin and Sasha’s book I have been waiting patiently for their story and let’s just say Sonja didn’t disappoint.

To catch you up to speed so to speak for this book, the Melnikov family are looking for a person by the name of Cupid. It was also known that Cupid had a particular interest in Sav, but have no fear Niki had his eyes constantly on her even though she was completely unaware of the fact.

What I love about these two is that they were both completely obsessed with eachother and it was so sweet how shy they were in regards to one another. The fact the both of them couldn’t believe that the other was interested was quite hilarious, I mean everyone surrounding them could see it😂.

Keeping this spoiler free but this book kept my heart racing at all times. Niki wants to protect Sav at all times but one moment is all it takes for her to slip through the cracks and the guilt bears down on him massively and this absolutely broke my heart. Him and his family stops at nothing until she is back safely. Even in the mid of danger Sav held herself strong, she had full confidence in Niki and that he would come save her.

Overall I absolutely loved this book. The chemistry of this couple is impeccable, both of these characters were each others lifelines and that much was made quite clear by the author. I adore the cameos from our first gen characters and how they took Sav under their wing from the get go, I mean they knew it was inevitable before the couple even together so they treated her as a part of the family, again another reason I love this family they certainly look after their own🤭.This book does have some dark themes so please consider your TWs. I cannot wait for Damien’s book and where Sonja will take us on this next journey.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Missy Stella.
10 reviews
Review of advance copy
March 17, 2026
Siempre es un placer leerte, Sonya, y este libro, como ya te dije en IG, no fue una decepción.

ARC Review | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)

Amé a Niki. Desde que supimos que sería el siguiente protagonista lo estaba esperando, y valió totalmente la pena. No es solo un genio informático guapísimo, también es un héroe en secreto, luchando contra el tráfico y con un contacto en el FBI. Es tierno, tímido, sexy… es una bomba. Me tuvo enamorada todo el libro.

Y cómo trata a Savanna. Se nota que todos los Melnikov tienen ese tema con la seguridad, pero en él es distinto: la cuida, se preocupa, duda de sí mismo, cree que no es suficiente… cuando para ella siempre lo fue. Me encantó que Savanna lo ayudara a ver eso. Además, ese apodo “Van” es simplemente perfecto.

Savanna también me encantó: inteligente, divertida, y sin creerse del todo que alguien como Niki podría fijarse en ella. No entiendo cómo ambos pensaban así uno del otro, pero claramente el amor hizo su trabajo y terminó triunfando.

La escena donde ella no entiende nada de tecnología y Niki se lo explica es demasiado linda.

El cómo no tiene ojos para nadie más que ella, que es un sello en todos los hombres Melnikov me encanta muchísimo. Y como siempre, la dinámica de found family en esta saga suma bastante.

Confieso que tuve miedo por Savanna (ya sabemos por qué), sobre todo porque este libro tenía más advertencias que los anteriores, así que mi mente se fue a lo peor… pero por suerte no pasó nada, y ver a Niki hacerse cargo de todo fue increíble. Se siente su desesperación porque la ama, y eso hizo todo aún más intenso.

El final fue perfecto. Como siempre, nos das ese final feliz que sana el corazón.

No me queda más que decir que este es otro de tus libros increíbles. Tienes una pluma mágica, sabes cómo contar historias y conectar. Estoy muy agradecida de haberte encontrado, y voy a esperar con ansias el siguiente libro.

Mi frase favorita, sin duda:
“La elijo a ella. Siempre la elegiré a ella.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Aya.
128 reviews1 follower
March 18, 2026
I went into this already hooked because it’s part of a series I love, and honestly… it didn’t disappoint at all 🤍📖

What I enjoy most about these books is the type of male lead—completely obsessed, fully devoted, and only ever seeing one woman 😭🖤 And this book delivered that perfectly.

But what made this one feel different for me was the male lead himself.
He wasn’t just possessive—he was shy, unsure, and genuinely believed he wasn’t good enough for her 🥺 Even until the end, he carried that feeling, always trying to be better for her instead of acting like he deserved her automatically. That was something I’m not used to seeing, and I really loved it.

And the best part? The obsession wasn’t one-sided 😭
The FMC loved him just as deeply, which made their relationship feel balanced in a way that was both intense and comforting 🤍

What I appreciated most is how their relationship was written.
It wasn’t about power, ego, or “I’m better than you.”
It was about two people choosing each other and constantly trying to become better for one another 🫶

That, to me, felt like a healthier kind of love—even in a dark romance setting 🖤

Overall, this book gave me exactly what I was looking for:
obsession, devotion, emotional connection, and a relationship that feels strong from both sides 😭📖
Profile Image for Tina.
173 reviews5 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
March 17, 2026
I swear miss Sonja is incapable of flopping cause this was so gooddddd. I loved Niki and Sav together and how he was so shy and blushing at first with her. They both thought they were out of each others league and they both wrong. Idk what it is about Danil's sons but either they actually are the best or I'm just extremely biased towards Danil (one of these has to be true). I wanted this book to be wayyy longer than it was cause I needed more of this. + Again I loved the appearances from the first gen () ANDD we finally got to see Max and Talia with their baby!!! + Dominic dancing with Isabella was so cute 😭
I will say tho it was pretty obvious who Cupid was. I mean there was literally no other option. But I'm not mad about it cause the point wasn't for this to be a mystery so it's fine. I did get scared when Cupid send Niki that video link I had to take a break.



------------------------------------------
Pre-read:
IVE BEEN WAITING FOR THIS FINALLY
Profile Image for Севдалина.
863 reviews57 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
March 18, 2026
Никита Мелников (Ники) (19) и Савана Монро (Сав; Ван) (19)

⚜️Получих ранно копие от тази книга, на профила на авторката в Booksprout и това е моето ревю⚜️

📣🚨🛑РЕВЮ СЪДЪРЖАЩО СПОЙЛЕРИ🛑🚨📣



Савана е студентка по начална педагогика, която мечтае един ден да бъде учителка в детска градина.



Най-добрата приятелка на Ван, Синди се омъжва за Саша, мъж от фамилията Мелников, и така Савана се запознава с Никита Мелников.



Никита е по-малкият син на Данил и Симона. Наследил любовта на баща си към компютрите, Ники успява да се превърне в дори по-добър хакер от Данил.



Ники се запознава с Ван благодарение на братовчед си Саша, но тъй като няма никакъв опит с жените, той вярва, че Ван е прекалено добра партия за него и не смее дори да мечтае, че тя може да го харесва.



Като всеки уважаващ себе си хакер обаче, Ники си поставя за цел да научи всичко за Ван и да я пази от сенките. Веднъж хакера Купидон, се е опитал да отвлече Ван и Ники ще направи всичко по силите си, да го открие и унищожи, докато същевременно смята да пази Савана на всяка цена.



Привличането между Савана и Ники е голямо и веднъж щом осъзнават, че чувства им са споделени, те ще намерят една любов, за която човек може само да мечтае. Но Купидон е все още там, навън в сенките, крие се и очаква своя шанс да унищожи Никита и да получи Савана за себе си.



Като начало ще кажа, че Ники и Ван бяха адски сладка двойка. Толкова неуверени, толкова боязливи и препазливи.



Ван редовно ревеше на врата на Син, че Ники не я харесва и дори Син организира вечеря с двама им, че най-после да вземат да се осъзнаят, че привличането им е взаимно.



Ники подобно на Ван умираше по нея, но мислеше, че тя не го харесва, и че не е достатъчно добър за нея и се задоволяваше да я шпионира през камерите в кампуса.



Когато обаче най-после се осъзнаха бяха толкова сладки. Хареса ми колко неуверено беше началото им, колко предпазливи бяха и колко страхотни станаха, като осъзнаха, че чувствата им са споделени.



Ествествено едно от любимите ми неща е срещата на цялата фамилия, всичките щури неподправени и страхотни Мелнилов и как посрещнаха Ван с отворени обятия, как мъжете се майтапеха с Ники, особено чичо му Витали. Винаги като имаме старата тайфа на едно място е адски забавно и ме кара да искам да препрочета отново всички книги.



Обожавам колко грижовен беше Ники към Савана, как правеше всичко по силите си, за да е добре, начина по който се грижеше за нея и я пазеше е типичен за героите на Соня и една от причините да обожавам книгите й. И винаги съм имаша слабост към по-бедни героини, и към богатите герои които гледат да затрупат любимата си с подаръци, за да направят живота й по-лесен и по-приятен. Ники обожаваше да прави подаръци на Ван и беше толкова сладък и така умел в избиеането на идеашните подаръци за нея.



Няма нужда да казвам, че секси сцените бяха адски горещи и доста на ниво. Това че героите ни са млади, не значи че са загубени😏 а и крушата явно не пада далеч от дървото защото Ники... от къде се появи това желание за пляскане не знам🤭 Същински бащичко🤭



В обобщение поредната Феноменална книга от Соня. Както винаги не ме разочарова, романса, съспенса, екшъна, всичко беше на ниво. Влюбена съм в Ники и Ван и нямам търпение за следващата книга. Хем ми е тъжно, че имаме само 2 книги да чакаме, на Деймиън и на Евгени, и тази феноменална поредица ще приключи, хем съм развълнувана, защото ще дойде ред на втората генерация Медведев. Но каквото и да излезе от перото на Соня знам, че ще го харесам. Тя има най-страхотните главни герои и най-страхотното въображение. Обожавам всичко, което пише и нямам търпение отново да се потопя в света, който създава.🥰

💫Обобщение: 💫

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

🔢 Част от поредица ли е?
Да, 8ма книга от поредицата "Devils will rise: Melnikov Legacy"

📚 Сюжетни линии:

⚜️ Мафия - Братва
💖 Любов от пръв поглед
💻 Герой Хакер
📚 Героиня Студентка
💢 Опасен преследвач
🤍 Девствени герой и героиня

💪 Главният герой: Никита
Хакерът на Мелников братва. Син на Данил и Симона. Гений. Силен. Смел. Сладък. Грижовен. Прекрасен. Леко stacker. Готов е на всичко, за да защити и направи Савана щастлива.

🎀 Главната героиня: Савана
Студентка по педагогика. Сладка. Забавна. Умна. Грижовна. Срамежлива. Пада си по Ники, но се бои, че той е прекалено висока летва за нея.

🫣 Има ли проблем с друг мъж или жена?
Не.

🤬 Има ли изневяра?
Не.

😏 Колко опит имат героите?
Никакъв, и двамата са девствени, Ники, не е целувал друга жена. Ван е имала гадже в гимназията, но нищо по-сериозно от целувка.

🥵 Колко горещи са секси сцените?
🌶🌶🌶🌶 Много горещи + 👅 орално☝️ Игра с пръсти 👋🍑 Пляскане

💔 Разделят ли се героите за определен период от време?
Не.

😍 Има ли щастлив край?
О ДА🥰

⚠️ Списък с предупреждения:

☠️ Насилие и смърт на трети лица
⛓️‍💥 Отвличане, заплахи и задържане в плен
⛓️Физически и психически тормоз
📛 Сексуален тормоз на трети лица
⚠️ Споменаване за трафик на жени

⬅️ Предишна книга? ⬅️
"Born into Madness"

➡️ Следваща книга? ➡️
Книгата на Деймиън
Profile Image for Lucia.
69 reviews4 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
March 14, 2026
The story of Niki and Sav has finally reached its end, and what an intense journey it has been following this couple.

On one hand, we have Sav, a woman who has achieved many things on her own, even though she sometimes doubts her own worth, in truth she is much stronger than she believes, from the very beginning she feels something special for Niki but she lives with the uncertainty of not knowing whether he could feel the same way. When they meet for the first time an immediate connection forms between them, something deep that neither of them can ignore, although Sav struggles to believe that those feelings could truly be returned.

Niki on the other hand is a genius in the world of technology, despite his intelligence and talent, he also carries his own insecurities. He has never been in a relationship and finds it hard to imagine that someone like Sav could fall in love with him, yet from the very first moment he meets her, something inside him changes.

As they spend more time around each other, they begin to realize that their feelings were always mutual, that connection from their first meeting was real, slowly they start getting closer, learning more about one another and allowing their attraction to grow. The tension between them can be felt in every moment they share, little by little they begin to let go of their insecurities and open their hearts.

When Sav finally tells Niki to kiss her, there is no turning back, despite their shyness, they discover an intense passion when they are together it is a mixture of tenderness and fire that makes their relationship feel very special.

But the story does not stay calm for long Sav had already escaped danger once, but she still isn’t completely safe, her life remains under threat and Niki protects her from a distance like a silent shadow, hiding his feelings while watching over her, Sav also observes him whenever she can, and through glances and quiet moments their relationship continues to grow. Just when everything seemed to be going well and they were beginning to build a future together, their happiness is shattered, Sav is captured by the same man who wanted to claim her for himself, the man known as Cupid turns out to be the real threat and that moment is when everything begins to fall apart.

The suffering Sav endures is devastating, she goes through both psychological and physical torture that is very difficult to read about, at the same time, Niki is consumed by guilt, believing that he failed to protect the woman he loves. That pain feels like a direct blow to the heart, however, this is also the moment when both of them must show their strength. Niki does absolutely everything to get her back, he is willing to burn the world down if that is what it takes to bring her home, in the end he confronts Cupid and defeats him in the only way a Melnikov deals with those who harm his family.

Even in the middle of the horror, Sav manages to stay strong with intelligence and determination she finds a way to help them locate her, when Niki finally finds her and brings her back into his arms the relief is overwhelming, although the emotional scars remain. The guilt still weighs heavily on Niki but Sav with her kindness and warmth shows him that he did not fail, that he protected her even when everything seemed lost, healing is not easy but the love between them becomes the force that helps them rebuild.

With Sav finally safe, they are able to return to their plans and look toward the future, she finds in Niki a refuge, someone who supports all her dreams, someone who protects and loves her deeply. Sav accepts Niki exactly as he is and learns to love both the gentle side he only shows to her and his family and the relentless man who would do anything to protect the people he loves. Niki, in turn finds in Sav everything he always wanted a woman who sees him for who he truly is a lifelong partner, a confidant to whom he gives his entire heart.

I loved seeing how their relationship developed step by step, how they slowly got. Now comes Damien's story, and I'm excited to see who his love interest will be, how their story will develop and finally Evgeny, who has built many walls to protect himself but as they say no wall is strong enough when love knocks on the door. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Eleonoras.bookshelf.
90 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Autorin bzw. Autor
March 15, 2026
This review contains mild spoilers.

"I wanted forever with you from the first moment I saw you."✨️

"Born into Obsession" is the eighth book in the "Devils Will Rise" series about the Melnikov Bratva by Sonja Grey, and once again this author proves why this series has become one of my absolute favorites. Having read all the books so far, returning to this world and its characters feels like coming home every time.

This story follows Savanna and Nikita, we already met in the previous book. Their relationship completely captured my heart. One thing Sonja Grey consistently does so well throughout this series is writing fiercely loyal and protective men. These Bratva men are ruthless when it comes to protecting the women they love. Yet with their women, they become the biggest softies. They fall hard, they fall fast, and their devotion is absolute. The love is intense, loyal, and deeply rooted.

Nikita is truly a special character. Despite being part of the Bratva, he is such a genuinely kind and good-hearted person. As a hacker, he secretly uses his skills for good, often without the knowledge of the other Bratva members. He donates large amounts of money to charities that support victims of sex trafficking and even works behind the scenes to help destroy trafficking rings through his hacking. Knowing this about him makes his character incredibly compelling and layered.

What makes his story even more emotional is how little he sees his own worth. It’s heartbreaking to watch how deeply he believes that Savanna is far too good for him. Nikita carries so much self-doubt and guilt, and he struggles to see himself the way others see him. Watching Savanna constantly remind him that he is just as much of a prize as he believes she is was incredibly touching. Their love feels beautifully balanced, because they truly lift each other up.

Savanna is also such a strong FMC. Her strength shows in many ways: she is hardworking, ambitious, and values her education and achievements. But her true strength shines through her emotional resilience and her loyalty to the people she loves. Even after experiencing the trauma of kidnapping and severe physical and psychological abuse, she remains incredibly strong. Instead of breaking, she continues to fight, heal, and even helps Nikita rebuild himself emotionally by reassuring him that none of what happened was his fault. Watching them support and heal each other was one of the most powerful aspects of their story.

The ending was absolutely beautiful. Seeing them get married and strengthen their bond even further felt like the perfect reward after everything they endured together.

As always in this series, family remains at the center of everything. It was wonderful to see how warmly Savanna’s family is welcomed into the circle. Those interactions also bring some genuinely funny moments, especially with Phil and Vitaly, which added some great lighthearted balance to the darker themes of the story.

Overall, "Born into Obsession" was another fantastic addition to the Devils Will Rise series. Emotional, intense, romantic, and deeply satisfying. If you love dark mafia romance with protective heroes, strong heroines, fierce loyalty, and guaranteed happily ever afters, this series is definitely worth reading.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Vishal Jayakumaran.
3 reviews
March 22, 2026
Born into Obsession by Sonja Grey is the kind of book that pulls you in fast and doesn’t really let you breathe until the very end. I had to finish it in 2 sittings because it's that captivating. Of course, thats how I am with all of Sonja's books. As someone familiar with the series, one of the most satisfying parts was getting to feel connected to the Melnikov family again. There’s something about returning to that world—the underlying power dynamics, the loyalty, the unspoken rules—that immediately adds depth to the story and makes it feel richer from the start. The way they are with their family, the way they joke and tease (Vitaly, you the man!) and their possessiveness is just top notch.

Nikita isn’t written as your typical dominant, untouchable male lead. Yes, he’s controlled, powerful, and at times intimidating, but what really defines him is how much of himself he keeps locked away. There’s a constant tension between what he feels and what he allows himself to show, and you can sense that conflict in the way he interacts with Savannah. The moments where that control slips, for Van even slightly are some of the most memorable in the book because they feel earned.
Savannah, meanwhile, is far from passive. What I appreciated most about her is that she doesn’t just get swept up in Nikita’s world—she questions it, resists it, and at times outright challenges him (of course only for plays and in bed). She has emotional depth and a strong sense of self, even when she’s placed in situations that would overwhelm most people. Her vulnerability never feels like weakness; instead, it adds weight to her choices and makes her growth throughout the story feel genuine.
Their dynamic is where the story really comes alive. It’s not just about attraction,it’s about control, trust, and the slow, often uncomfortable process of letting someone see you fully. There are moments between them that feel almost suffocating in their intensity, where neither is willing to give in, yet both are clearly affected. That push and pull creates a kind of emotional realism that’s hard to fake.
What also stood out is how seamlessly the Melnikov family presence is woven into the story. It’s not just a background detail,it shapes the stakes, the expectations, and the pressure both characters feel. For readers who’ve followed the series, those connections add an extra layer of meaning, making certain moments hit harder.
The pacing allows the relationship to build in a way that feels messy and complicated rather than idealized. You see the misunderstandings, the hesitation, and the emotional walls on both sides, which makes the payoff much more satisfying.
The themes of obsession and control aren’t just there for drama,they’re embedded in the characters’ choices and histories. The book explores how obsession can blur into protection, or even love, without ever making it feel simple or entirely safe. That ambiguity is part of what makes the story linger after you’ve finished it.
Overall, this felt like a character-driven story first and a romance second and that’s what made it work. Being back in the orbit of the Melnikov family while watching Nikita and Savannah’s story unfold made this an especially engaging and rewarding read, and now I cant wait for another 3-4 months for Damien's story.
75 reviews2 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
March 20, 2026
Born into Obsession follows Niki, the son of Danil Melnikov—a tech genius and hacker who works behind the scenes for the Bratva—and Savanna, a sweet college student whose best friend is already married to Niki’s cousin, Sacha. The two were introduced in the previous book, and their mutual attraction was already established, so this story picks up with their connection ready to bloom.

Because of that setup, there’s very little tension when it comes to their relationship development. Niki and Savanna fall for each other almost instantly, leaning heavily into the “insta-love” trope. While there’s nothing wrong with that, it felt a bit exaggerated here—especially considering they are both only nineteen. Their quick declarations of eternal love, coming almost immediately after admitting their feelings, made it hard not to roll my eyes at times. Instead of feeling swept up in romance, it felt more like teenage hormones than real, deep love. As a result, I struggled to fully engage with the first half of the book.

The second half, however, picks up significantly with a strong dose of action. A villain introduced in the previous installment returns, and it was already clear that Savanna would be a target. While the conflict itself wasn’t surprising, it did brought excitement to the story.

Although the books in this series are marketed as standalones, they are deeply interconnected. Each installment focuses on a different couple and wraps up without a cliffhanger, but the large cast of recurring characters and ongoing family dynamics make it difficult to fully appreciate the story without having read the earlier books.

One of the strongest aspects of this novel is the Melnikov family itself. The relationships between family members are warm, lively, and entertaining. The brotherly banter, humor, and recurring moments—like the infamous elevator incidents caught on camera—add charm to the story. It’s also enjoyable to see the love between the first-generation couples and how it reflects in the way they’ve raised their children. Characters like Vitaly, who has evolved into a lovable goofball, bring an extra layer of enjoyment.

That said, some recurring patterns in the series are starting to feel repetitive. The consistent use of insta-love, the trope of every Melnikov child remaining a virgin until meeting “the one,” and the rapid progression from romance to marriage—often accompanied by an unplanned pregnancy—begin to lose their impact when repeated in every book. While these elements can be sweet and appealing, their overuse makes the stories feel predictable. It’s particularly concerning to see characters who are still pursuing their education and career goals seemingly disregard contraception or long-term planning.

I would love to see more variety in future installments—different romantic tropes, more emotional buildup, and couples who truly have to work for their HEA. Sonja Grey is clearly a talented writer, and I believe she has the ability to deliver more diverse and layered stories within this world. I truly hope she considers mixing things up a bit.
Profile Image for Rachel Rā Chel.
95 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Autor
March 22, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐✨ 4.5


I have to say, I enjoyed this book much more than I expected. Niki is a character who hasn't been mentioned much throughout the saga; he appeared most in Born into Darkness and briefly before that in Born into Temptation. Other than that, he was only mentioned occasionally, and everyone described him as an introverted tech-guy, just like his father. Because of that, I didn't have a clear idea of what his book would be like. Honestly, when I read the synopsis, I thought Niki would have a darker side, but that wasn't the case. He turned out to be a really laid-back and entertaining character, and I loved that. I adore dark characters like Sasha, but I needed a breather—a calmer character like Niki.
One thing I absolutely loved and for which I’m so grateful to the author is that she finally gave us a shyer Melnikov. I love all the guys, but we’ve never had a Melnikov man who was this timid. Usually, it's the girl who is shy while the Melnikov guy is bold, brazen, and shameless. In contrast, Niki is introverted and gets embarrassed easily, even just talking to Sav—let alone taking the first step to kiss her. I loved that about him. And Sav? I absolutely adored her because we finally got a bolder, more self-assured female lead. Even though I’ve loved all the previous protagonists, I really needed a girl with high self-esteem who felt comfortable in her own skin. Sav was definitely the incredible character I was waiting for. Their dynamic was perfect; they are literally made for each other.


Niki and Sav’s chemistry literally exploded throughout the book. I loved how their story developed; there’s no doubt they both fell for each other the second they met. I haven’t read any extras yet, so I don’t know if there’s a scene of their first meeting, but I would love to read what Niki’s first thought was when he saw Sav. In Sasha's book, we saw that they fell hard for one another, and I would have loved to read that moment from their perspective.

I liked this book so much that it’s now among my favorites of the series—it’s officially in second place, right after Born into Darkness. It came so close to taking the top spot that all I can do is thank the author for giving us such a gem.




-------------




Honestly, I don't have any additional critiques; I loved the book so much that I flew through it. I think the only thing I’d like is for the books to include scenes from the perspectives of other characters—for example, Niki’s parents or other members of the Melnikov family. This is more of a personal preference because I’m so attached to his parents.
Also, it would be amazing if the author kept giving us little glimpses of future couples at the end of each book. So far, she has dropped several spoilers: in Val’s book, we found out who Max would end up with; in others, we got hints about Mia; in Sasha’s book, she spoiled Niki’s match; and now, Niki’s book gave us an idea of who Damien might end up with by mentioning his trip to where the Medvedevs live. Since Evgeny was mentioned, I’m curious to see if he’ll find his partner soon. I hope the author gives us a clue in Damien’s book!
10 reviews1 follower
March 14, 2026
🖤 Book Review: Born Into Obsession by Sonja Grey 🖤
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | 🌶️🌶️🌶️½ | Dark Mafia Romance | Devils Will Rise: Melnikov Legacy #8

⚠️ Trigger Warning: Dark mafia themes including violence, kidnapping, trafficking elements, possessive characters, and on-page sexual assault (not between the main couple).

⚠️ Spoiler Note: This review contains minor spoilers and also references events from the previous book (Born Into Madness).

🖤 Spoiler-Free Teaser 🖤

Some men love like a wildfire.
Nikita Melnikov loves like a chess game. ♟️

Carefully.
Quietly.
Completely.

He watches, he calculates, and he protects. And when Savanna Monroe enters his life, the man who always stays ten steps ahead suddenly finds himself wanting something he never planned for—her. 🖤

Born Into Obsession is a darker, tension-filled story about devotion, control, and the kind of love that runs so deep it becomes an obsession. 🔥

💻 Full Review (minor spoilers)

Getting Nikita “Niki” Melnikov’s story was everything I hoped for. While other Melnikov men tend to be explosive chaos, Niki is the quiet mastermind of the family—a Bratva hacker who prefers computers and strategy to attention. 💻🧠

But the moment he meets Savanna “Van” Monroe, everything shifts.

Savanna is sunshine to his shadows—beautiful, sweet, and incredibly genuine. 🌸 She’s also hilarious when it comes to technology (her poor computer George deserves a medal for survival 😅). Despite dealing with painful migraines and the chaos surrounding the Melnikov world, she never feels weak as a character.

Their chemistry starts strong and only grows hotter. 🔥
What I loved most is how soft Niki becomes with her. For everyone else he’s calculating and controlled, but with Savanna he’s patient, protective, and completely devoted.

And when danger appears in the form of the mysterious criminal Cupid, the stakes rise fast. 😬

Cupid has been haunting the series for a while, orchestrating terrible crimes from the shadows, and Savanna ends up directly in his sights. Watching Niki shift from quiet strategist to relentless hunter when she’s taken was intense and emotional.

The suspense kept me glued to the pages, and the payoff was incredibly satisfying. 📖🔥

We also get several glimpses of Sasha and Cyn (still one of my favorite couples 🖤), and the Melnikov family scenes continue to be one of the best parts of this series. Their loyalty, chaos, and protectiveness always make the story richer.

🌶️ Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️½
Steamy, passionate scenes that match the emotional intensity of their relationship perfectly.

I received an early copy via Booksprout and this is my genuine, honest opinion.

💭 Final Thoughts

If you love:
🖤 quietly obsessed MMCs
💻 brilliant hacker heroes
🌸 sweet but strong heroines
🔥 protective mafia men
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 chaotic family dynamics
🌶️ emotional spice

Then Born Into Obsession will absolutely hook you.

Niki may be the quiet one in the Melnikov family, but his devotion to Savanna is fierce, unwavering, and unforgettable.

Dark, suspenseful, and completely addictive—another five-star Melnikov story. 🖤📖🔥
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for liz ౨ৎ.
34 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy
March 17, 2026
“It’s not a want. It's a need. The same way my lungs scream for air and my heart for the constant push and pull of blood. I need her in every way that counts.”


The Book
If you go into a Sonja Grey book expecting a literary masterpiece, you're probably not going to get it. These books are meant to be fun and extremely fast-paced (most of her couples get married and pregnant within a few weeks). I think that’s part of why I keep coming back for more. These books are kind of like junk food; they’re not trying to be anything overly serious, but they’re incredibly addictive. Plus, at this point, I’m 12 books deep, so the nostalgia and found family element make me a little biased. If you’re someone who dislikes insta-love or pregnancy epilogues, this series probably won’t be for you.

With that being said, I did enjoy this book, even if it didn’t feel entirely new compared to others in the series. Some aspects of the story stretched my suspension of disbelief a bit, like how Van’s parents seemed relatively calm about their daughter dating someone in the Bratva or the kidnapping situation. But once I stopped overthinking those details and just leaned into the chaos, it became a really fun read.

Savanna Monroe
fmc, 19 years old, “Van”
Savanna’s character was sweet, but to be completely honest, many of Sonja’s fmcs share similar personalities, so she didn’t stand out too drastically from the others. The character development for Savanna felt a little light at times, but considering how fast-paced the story is, there’s only so much room for deeper exploration. What I did like about her was how kind and reassuring she was with Niki. Even though she was shy around him at first, she also helped bring him out of his shell and encouraged him in ways he might not have pushed himself otherwise.

Nikita “Niki” Melnikov
mmc, 19 years old
I think Niki’s personality was a big reason why I enjoyed this book as much as I did. He's not some macho bratva hacker but shy and sweet. He’s a little insecure at first, and it takes him time to feel comfortable around Van. Their mutual awkwardness and crushes made the early parts of their relationship really cute, with both of them nervous about saying or doing the wrong thing. Even once they grew closer, Niki kept that softer, protective side that made him really endearing.

“‘She’s so out of my league, Ev, like painfully so. I feel like an idiot around her, sweaty palms and everything.”


Tropes
Bratva, love at first sight, first love, each other's firsts, hacker x childhood education student, kidnapping (not by mmc lol), protective mmc

ARC reader, I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
4 reviews
Review of advance copy
March 15, 2026
Sonja Grey has done it again! I devoured this book in 48 hours (I'm a single mum; it's impressive).

4 Stars because as much as I adored it and was glued, it wasn't my favorite in the series (perhaps due to personal taste) and there were a couple of small things I felt could have been a tad better.

Niki's book is one I've been looking forward to, and it did not disappoint. In contrast to some of the previous books in the series, this definitely was a lot lighter in tone (especially following Sasha's story), and yet Niki is such a sweetheart, I wouldn't want it any other way. He is far too cute to be put through some of the heavy stuff in the other books. This also made the climax of the book hit harder in comparison. Sav is fierce, strong, and yet in a subtle way that makes you root for her. Together, their relationship is pure and sweet and has your tummy flip-flopping whilst also having just enough sexiness to keep you panting. This book honestly made stalking seem adorable as opposed to a red flag, and I absolutely loved their "lunches together."

The beautiful thing about Sonja's writing is her rich characters that create her world. With Sonja's stories, you know more or less what you are going to get plot-wise, and yet I keep coming back for more because her characters have this depth and charisma that makes you want to get to know them and see their stories play out.

I'll admit I was nervous going into this series again since I burned my way through the previous books, and it's been a while since I read them. There are A LOT of characters in Sonja's world, and I was concerned that I wouldn't remember anything and it would take away the depth of the story, or I would feel lost, especially as Niki and Sav's story starts before this book. But I needn't have worried as each character is so unique and well-developed that I found myself knowing exactly who is who, their personalities, and (with a small bit of help from the family tree) whose kids are whose, which is truly impressive characterisation.

Two things that bugged me:

One: While suggested as a standalone, to get the best out of it, the previous books should be read first, as you miss the start of their relationship, chemistry buildup, and Niki's development as a character. They add so much and help the otherwise info dump feel more like a gentle reminder.

Spoiler alert!!!

Two: I wanted more revenge and more suffering from the bad guy when he got caught. He had it way too easy, and my black heart wasn't satisfied.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Bella.
244 reviews4 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
March 16, 2026
Born into Obsession by Sonja Grey completely pulled me in and refused to let go. This book is everything I love about dark mafia romance. It is intense, emotional, addictive, and packed with the kind of devotion that makes your heart race while you are flipping pages as fast as you can.

Nikita Melnikov aka Niki is the kind of morally complex, dangerous hero that dark romance readers dream about. He is brilliant, calculating, and absolutely lethal when it comes to protecting the people he loves. As the family’s hacker he already operates in the shadows, but when Savanna becomes the center of his world you quickly see just how far he is willing to go for her. His devotion to her is fierce and unwavering, and every moment he is on the page just radiates that powerful protective energy.

Savanna aka Van brings such a beautiful balance to the story. She is light in a world that is full of darkness, but she is not weak. Watching her fall for Niki while realizing the dangerous reality of the world he lives in makes their relationship feel both emotional and incredibly gripping. The connection between them feels intense from the start and only grows stronger as the story unfolds.

The tension in this book is incredible. Once Savanna is taken the story explodes into a high stakes race that had me completely hooked. Niki’s determination to find her and tear apart anyone who stands in his way shows exactly why the Melnikov name carries so much power. The love, the danger, the loyalty to family, and the relentless pursuit of the woman he loves makes every chapter feel charged with emotion and adrenaline.

Sonja Grey absolutely delivers with this installment in the Melnikov Legacy series. The writing pulls you into this dark, dangerous world while still giving readers a romance that feels deeply emotional and consuming. The chemistry, the suspense, and the intense devotion between these characters make this story impossible to put down.

This was easily a five star read for me. If you love dark mafia romance with protective heroes, high stakes danger, and a love so powerful it burns through everything in its path, Born into Obsession is a must read. The Melnikov men continue to raise the bar and Niki just secured his place as another unforgettable book boyfriend.
4 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
March 14, 2026
Niki and Van are so adorably cute together… and also so hot. I don’t really know how to explain it better, but from the very beginning they have this chemistry that makes it impossible not to fall in love with them. Niki is so adorable, but also so smart and wonderfully caring with her. And Van is just as adorable, but also determined, strong, and very funny.

I usually say this every time, but Sonja really does outdo herself with every single book. She always manages to take it one step further and make you want to keep reading non-stop from the very first page. Ever since Sasha and Cyn’s book, I already knew I was going to love this story, but it still managed to surprise me.

From the very first pages, Niki and Van are absolutely adorable together. I loved when Niki gave her one of his messenger bags so now they match, or when he let her touch his computer. It’s those little details that just make your heart melt. Also, Niki reminded me so much of Danil in some moments, which only made me love him even more.

They’re incredibly sweet together and fit perfectly with their little obsession with each other. But it also broke my heart so much seeing everything they had to go through because of Cupido. Sonja has a way of writing that literally breaks you and rebuilds you at the same time, and you can always feel how much she loves her characters.

This book kept my heart racing the entire time. I love the scenes where Vitaly shows up with his comments because they always make you laugh so much. I also absolutely loved Van’s parents—they were so caring. And I loved that moment when her dad gets a little drunk with Vitaly while their moms become friends.

It made me so emotional seeing how much Van and Niki love each other, even talking about having six kids together. It was so beautiful. I also loved seeing Damien take such good care of him at his worst moment, and after that I’m sure his book is going to be incredible.

And honestly, seeing how Sasha is still so protective of Cyn… I love them so much.

Thank you so much to Sonja for letting me read this ARC. I always think, “this one is my favorite,” but then she writes something new and I end up saying it all over again.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
848 reviews3 followers
Review of advance copy
March 18, 2026
I choose you by MeemsAngel82

Oh, my heart. Is it really that time already? I cannot believe that he has grown up but of course he has and what a guy!!! This was a character I knew would just make me melt and he did. Niki is a character that has grown up in our eyes bit by bit. He is a sweet soul and is a member of the very same Bratva his dad, uncles and cousins are apart of. Van is a sweet girl as well and one would think on the outside, maybe the opposite of the quieter male. But not so. She is besties with our previous h from the book right before this one. No, you don't need to read previous books. But if you love continuity and family and true love and Bratva life on the close knit side of things, then I highly recommend reading all of Sonja's books. This a special book. But then again, they all are for me.

They connected in their hearts right away. Then she is taken by someone they were hunting. Would he be in time to save his girl?

For new readers, there is no OW drama. This is true love and that's what you can expect from Sonja's books. Niki is not as loud, not as confident as some of his cousins. He is used to his computer, that's something he is the absolute master of. She's in a social setting. But her and her best friend are down to earth and nothing like the social norms can be. They meet...and it is so ADORABLE. My goodness. This sweetheart finding his one? When they look at one another it was all over. The attraction and feelings and the shyness? Sigh. My gosh this was so good. And having their friends and family in the story just adds so many layers on this cake that I just gobbled it up!! Is this Bratva? Yes. Are there triggers? Yes. Please be mindful of this. There are some heavy parts and I hope for the best outcomes. But this family makes everything so worth it. The history, the funny parts, the love and the future is so bright for them. Sonja is hands down one of my favorite authors ever, and for good reason. I was honored to read this and look forward to their future.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Yaneth.
247 reviews2 followers
Review of advance copy
March 19, 2026
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

The title, I guess, can be alluding to many different forms of obsession. But not because of their relationship, it was tame at most.

Profile Image for Jen ♥.
1,794 reviews1,049 followers
Review of advance copy
March 21, 2026
ARC review


Born into Obsession

The first half of the book is all about both MCs thinking that the other one isn’t interested at all. Niki (19) feels like Van (19) is way out of his league, and she thinks that he’s not really into her. Which are both untrue.

But once they got past their wrong assumptions about each other, these two were pretty much inseparable most of the time. They only part ways when she has to go to campus, but once that's done, they're right back to being all over each other again. 😅

Not that Niki would let her out of sight anyway. He keeps an eye on her all the time, even at school. If his actions still don't clearly demonstrate devotion and obsession, idk what else would. 😂

Anyway, this was mostly a cheesefest, and ngl, while they were sickeningly sweet every time, it started to feel a bit repetitive and boring after a while. Not much is going on between them, and the added plot in the story was the obsessed stalker, who, btw, was pretty easy to spot. Once the drama he caused settled down, things mostly returned to normal.

That said, this was still a good book if you want some chill romance. Sure, there were dark aspects to it, so please check the CW/TW, but romance-wise, these two were very solid and sure in the endgame; that's without a doubt. Outside factors could try and get between them, but Niki and Van were unfazed and faithful through and through. 🤭

I also love how Van was so badass during one of her difficult moments in life. I didn't actually expect that, but she surprised me, and I couldn't be prouder of how she handled that situation. It was a great relief, too, that Niki just came in time to save her.

Overall, I still loved it and couldn't wait for the upcoming books.


Book info:


I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
42 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy received from Autor
March 15, 2026
Reveiw of Advance copy of this book via booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a Review


Niki & Van
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️


From the first moment I saw you, I wanted to be with you forever.”


BORN INTO OBSESSION IS THE EIGHTH BOOK IN THIS SERIES. While we already knew both characters, Niki, the hacker of the Melnikov family, who, although also a member of the Bratva, is like his father and very good with computers and handles many of the online activities, learns in this book that Niki has his own projects, trying to help others with his web knowledge.

We also meet Savanna, whom we met in the previous book as Cyn's best friend. Savanna isn't very good with computers, comes from a conventional family, and dreams of becoming a preschool teacher.

Although they fell in love the moment they met, neither had the courage to make the first move. It wasn't until Cyn and Sasha intervened during a dinner date, where they met again, and later on a subsequent date when Niki offered to look at her computer, that everything began to work up the courage for both characters to confess their feelings. But as revealed in the previous book, "Cupid" was following Savanna, wanting to sweep her off her feet. In this book, we see his intervention and how both characters prove their worth, as Cupid was closer than they thought. I loved this book; we had already had a small preview of when they met in the previous book, and reading it was undoubtedly beautiful. Two sweet characters who are afraid to take the first step.

Of course, I wasn't expecting the plot twist, but as always, they show us that the Melnikov family supports each other and is there for its members. I loved seeing how the whole family supports one another. I love how both characters describe all the situations; without a doubt, a great book.

I thank Sonja Grey for being so kind as to share this advance copy from Booksprout..
Profile Image for Milena Vasileva.
7 reviews4 followers
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
March 15, 2026
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I came across Sonja Grey a few months ago and after the first three of her books I was obsessed with all the characters and stories. Especially after Boxing Club I couldn't stop and read everything in order, except for the Christmas book, which I promise I will read this Christmas. I really like the connection of the series, as well as the eternal line - men who fall in love quickly and strongly and are extremely possessive. Who take care of women like queens. This family spirit and Russian dark masculinity and at the same time dominant calibration of the people close to them. I have been eagerly waiting for the story of Nikita and Savanna since December, when I finished the last story about Sasha and Cyn, which I admit was my favorite. This story about Nikki's obsession with Savanna is two-way. I enjoyed their simultaneous innocence and at the same time sexual attraction, despite their virginity. They were meant for each other and this was hinted at in book 7. I also like the mafia element, in which Savanna wasn't hurt much, as well as the detail about the personal nickname that Sonja cleverly chose, not as a new Russian diminutive, but as part of her name. Although I adore all personal nicknames, because my Slavic soul finds rapprochement and understanding in this. Please Sonja add some Bulgarian hero, we are Slavic brothers with the Russians, so that you can completely enjoy me. I hope I didn't misunderstand the hint about the next 2 books that a MM story is coming, not because I don't like them, but because I enjoy alpha stories about subjugated men and beautiful women at first sight too much.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for addictedtodarkromance.
439 reviews137 followers
Review of advance copy
March 16, 2026
I've missed these crazy, possessive men who are obsessed and super protective of their women!!

Nikita (Niki) is a hacker for his family, who are Bratva. He's calculated, in control and OTT possessive. Savanna (Van) and he met through the couple from the last book and fell hard for each other at first sight.

But he isn't the only one who wants her, and when they take her, Niki is ready to burn the world down to find her. As always, he has the support of his family with their witty banter and morally grey ethics (that I've come to love).
 
These two are fantastic together. Niki is watching her every move, even if she may not know it yet, as he wants to make sure she is safe. Van is more his opposite - disorganized, messy and unaware of the dangers of the world, which drives him crazy (as he wants her safe). The spice is off-the-charts as Sonja's books always are, and the chemistry is perfection!

I can't wait for the next book!!
 
Overall: 4.25 out of 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐.25
Spice/Heat: 3 out of 5 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Main Characters: Nikita (Niki) & Savanna (Van)
Darkness: 5 out of 5 🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤
Type of book: MF, Dual 1st Person POV
Reading Order: Standalone with Interconnected Characters throughout the series
Title: Devils Will Rise: Melnikov Legacy Series- Born into Obsession: Book 4
Audiobook: n/a as of Mar 2026
Epilogue: Yes
Ending Type: HEA
 
 
*OTT Possessive, obsessive, dominant, fiercely loyal and protective MMC
*Eyes only for her
*MINE!
*Hacker MMC
*Both V's
*Bratva
*Burn down the world to find her
*He stalks her
*No cheating or sharing
 
 
⚠️ This book has descriptive parts that may be offensive or triggering to some. Please check all the authors' TW/CW before reading! 18+
 
*I received an early copy of this book and am voluntarily writing this review.
Profile Image for Jeshu.
54 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
March 15, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐

This book had me hooked from the very first chapters. I couldn't stop reading, and the story pulled me in so deeply that I felt every emotion right alongside the characters.

Sav and Niki completely stole my heart. Their relationship felt intense, emotional, and incredibly genuine. Watching their bond grow throughout the story was easily one of my favorite parts of the book.

I also really loved Sav as a main character. She was strong, determined, and I appreciated that she never allowed herself to be broken or pushed aside. She stood her ground, and that made her even more compelling to read.

Some of my favorite moments between them are captured perfectly in these lines:

"You're my home, Niki. I don't ever want to be anywhere else."

"I choose her. I will always choose her."

Those two quotes alone say so much about the depth of their connection.

This book took me through every possible emotion. I cried, laughed, and even found myself reacting out loud while reading. It truly felt like a rollercoaster of emotions, and I loved every moment of it.

Without giving away any spoilers, the ending definitely left me thinking and feeling very curious about what might come next in this world.

And I have to say… Evgeny continues to live rent-free in my head. Ever since his first appearance, he has been one of the characters I'm most curious about, and I'm already looking forward to the day we finally get his story.

I received an ARC of this book, and I'm incredibly grateful for the opportunity to read it early. Thank you so much, Sonja! 🖤.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for MissSassyBookworm.
1 review
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
March 15, 2026
I was one of the lucky ones who got my hands on an ARC, and I couldn’t wait to dive in!

I’ve been a fan of Sonja Gray ever since I first read her Melnikov series. That series completely hooked me, and since then, I’ve been obsessed with her writing style. She has this amazing ability to create stories that are addictive, emotional, and incredibly easy to binge.

This book is perfect for readers who enjoy insta-love with a dark romance vibe. That said, I wouldn’t call this the darkest book in the genre. For me, it felt more like a comfort read—the kind of story you curl up with when you want something intense but still cozy.

One thing I really appreciated about this book was the male main character. I usually lean toward darker, more morally gray heroes, but this one was different in the best way. He’s gentle, kind, and calm, giving off protective energy without needing to be overly cocky or aggressive. His softness doesn’t make him weak—it just makes him feel grounded and confident in a quieter way. It was refreshing to read.

Overall, the story had a cozy mafia romance feel—still dramatic and emotional, but not overwhelmingly heavy. It’s the kind of book that reminds me why I love Sonja Gray’s stories so much. She’s one of those authors who can pull you out of a reading slump without even trying.

I’m also really excited for what comes next. I’m especially looking forward to Dominic’s book, and I’m hoping we might see connections to the Medvedev Bratva world, which was one of the series that originally introduced me to her work.

⭐ Rating: 4/5 stars

If you enjoy:
🖤 Mafia romance
💞 Insta-love
📖 Comfort dark romance
🔥 Addictive series

Then I definitely recommend giving this one a try.

Happy reading, everyone! 📚💫
Profile Image for Sophie.
2 reviews
Review of advance copy
March 14, 2026
I have been (very impatiently) waiting for Niki and Van's book since we first got a glimpse of them in Sasha and Cyn's. Throughout the series, Niki has been one of my favorite characters, and it is so nice to see him get his HEA.

Savanna has been Cyn's best friend for most of their lives, and this led to her and Sasha introducing Niki and Van in the previous book. This book picks up a few months later, during this time, both Van and Niki were in the mindset that the other was too good for them.

As much as I enjoyed this book and Niki and Van together, I will say that I found the book to be incredibly predictable. There were no twists, and even the events in the book went exactly as I predicted they would. However, these are the types of books I tend to seek out. I usually go for books that are predictable, love at first sight, no third-act breakup or ow/om drama.

This book met everything on my checklist of things I like in a book. My absolute favorite trope is dual virgins, and like most of the books in this series, this fits that criteria.

This book was an amazing addition to the series. It can be read as a standalone, but I would recommend starting at the beginning, as there are a lot of characters; it took me a few books to not have to look at the family tree every time a member of the Melnikov family was mentioned.

Safety:
Dual virgins
Mentions of sex trafficking/slavery
Attempted rape
Rape(not involving either main character, but witnessed by both)
Kidnapping
Murder.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for MARY LEONARD.
55 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
March 15, 2026
BORN INTO OBSESSION IS 100% AMAZING
Niki is truly an amazing MMC.
Even though is he is apart of his families Bratva, he has such a kind soul and is good-hearted person. He is a hacker just like his dad for the Bratva, however he uses his skills for good as well without anyone knowing. His character incredibly heartwarming. I absolutely love him
He honestly doesn't know his own worth. It’s heartbreaking to read that doesn't believes he's good for Savanna. Niki carries guilt, and he struggles to see himself the way others see him. Savanna constantly reassures him that he is just as much of a prize as she is Their love feels genuine on both sides and you can feel it while reading each h page.

Savanna is a strong FMC. She is my favorite female of the series so far. She is loyay to the people she loves and gives it her all. Even after what she went through she remains strong. She fights, then heals, awhile helping Niki in reassuring him that none of it was is fault.
Reading them fall in love and contact with each other on level no expected was heartwarming.

I loved seeing Savanna’s parents brought into the family. Phil and Vitaly were funny and brought laughter. And joy.
Vitaly as always had me cracking up with his comments.
I loved getting Sasha and Cyn also,knowing Cyn is Savanna’s best friend ( which they act like sister's in my opinion)

If you love dark mafia romance with protective heroes, strong heroines, fierce loyalty, and guaranteed happily ever afters, this series is definitely worth reading.

Sonja Grey has outdone herself again. I can not wait for Damiens story.
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
🌶 🌶🌶🌶🌶
🌟 🌟🌟🌟🌟
🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for booksdevoured2852.
11 reviews
Review of advance copy
March 17, 2026
Niki and SAV 🫶🥹♥️

I devoured this book in two sittings—would’ve been one, but I have a set of Irish twins at home that are crazyyyyy.

Like Sasha & Cindy, I cannot overstep the boundary of using Niki’s nickname for Savanna. It feels too personal🥺

Niki is RAW. His emotions, his actions, his intentions, his restraint. To be honest, there aren’t a lot of dark mafia, morally grey men who have self doubts. Or insecurities if you will. But I will say it was a twist I didn’t think I needed until I read it.

Savanna threw me for a loop too. Ya know, for both of them being v!rg!ns, they definitely weren’t prudes🤪 She surprised me in many ways, but the main one being she wasn’t afraid to admit and dive head first into a relationship or marriage with Niki. She was wishing for it, she craved him so much and the confidence she envelopes throughout the whole book began developing within Niki, and Niki with confidence is like setting fire to a dam—pressure building, heat spreading, until nothing can contain what’s coming.

Cupid… Cupid… Cupid… you f*ckin fool for the thinking you can take a woman claimed by a Melnikov.

Somehow, I fall deeper in love with the Melnikov’s every time I read more of them. They make new comers feel so welcome in their inner circle. Vitaly makes me feel like home whenever he appears. For some reason I’m so attached to this series, but I can only thank Sonja for that. Her talent for story telling is amazing!!

Can’t wait for Damien!!!🖤 maybe a Medvedev/Melnikov?!?!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Ela Books.
1 review1 follower
Review of advance copy received from Autore
March 18, 2026
Review of advance copy received from Author

✨Some loves don't save you. They consume you.✨

Savanna knew the moment she looked at Nikita Melnikov that he was the kind of man who could ruin her — and she let him anyway.

He lives in shadows. He breathes danger. And he has claimed her heart with a possessiveness that should terrify her.

But now someone else is watching from the dark.

And the man who was supposed to be her greatest risk... is her only hope.

Nikita doesn't pray. He doesn't beg. He hunts.

📌Because she is his — and in his world, you don't lose what belongs to you.📌

Nikita & Savanna's story is a beautifully layered dark romance. Nikita — a Bratva hacker with a hidden heart of gold — is one of the most compelling MMCs in the series. His quiet acts of goodness contrast deeply with his crushing self-doubt, making him impossible not to root for.

Savanna matches him perfectly as a strong, resilient FMC who doesn't just survive trauma — she heals, fights back, and even helps Nikita rebuild his sense of worth. Their love feels earned and balanced; they truly lift each other up.

The ending is everything — a wedding that feels like a well-deserved reward after all they endured. Add in the warmth of family moments and some genuine laughs with Phil and Vitaly, and you have a story that masterfully balances darkness with heart.

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❗❗❗❗❗

Mafia

OTT and Obsessed MMC

Obsessed FMC

No cheating

No third act breakup

Dual virgins

Nerd and sunshine

HEA
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