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Dangerous Royals #1
Dark Mafia Prince
THE DARK MAFIA PRINCE IS BACK TO RECLAIM ALL THAT HER FAMILY STOLE.
Aleksio
Don’t look at me like that. So trusting.
Like you think I’m not a monster.
Like I won’t wrap your hair in my fist and bend you to my will.
Like I won’t sacrifice you, piece by piece, to save my brother.
I’m the most dangerous enemy you’ll ever have because every time you look at me, you see somebody good. That friend who died.
And when you look at me like that, I die again.
Mira
I spent years making myself invisible.
A good girl, apart from the noise. Then you came back, beautiful and deadly in your Armani suit.
Don’t look at me like you still know me, you say.
But I remember your smile and those sunny days.
Before they lowered your small casket into the ground.
Before they told us the prince was dead.
Aleksio
Don’t look at me like that. So trusting.
Like you think I’m not a monster.
Like I won’t wrap your hair in my fist and bend you to my will.
Like I won’t sacrifice you, piece by piece, to save my brother.
I’m the most dangerous enemy you’ll ever have because every time you look at me, you see somebody good. That friend who died.
And when you look at me like that, I die again.
Mira
I spent years making myself invisible.
A good girl, apart from the noise. Then you came back, beautiful and deadly in your Armani suit.
Don’t look at me like you still know me, you say.
But I remember your smile and those sunny days.
Before they lowered your small casket into the ground.
Before they told us the prince was dead.
332 pages, ebook
First published June 28, 2016
About the author
Annika Martin
48 books2,941 followersI’m a NYT bestselling author who sometimes writes as RITA®-award-winning Carolyn Crane. I live in Minneapolis with my husband and enjoy taking pictures of my cats, consuming boatloads of chocolate suckers, and tending my wild, bee-friendly garden.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 575 reviews
February 10, 2017
3-3.5 Stars!!
This was my second book by Mrs. Martin and while she didn’t blow me away with this one, I’m looking forward to read the next installments in the series. 'Dark Mafia Prince', the first book in this author’s newest series was an interesting mafia romantic suspense that despite a few issues I had with it, it kept my interest from start to finish. If you are like me and love mafia stories, then you will want to give this series a try. This first book in the series tells the story of Aleksio Dragusha, the Albanian Mafia Prince who wants his revenge no matter what.
Aleksio used to be a mafia prince, the future head of the biggest Albanian Mafia family in Chicago. Everything changed for him one night, when he lost himself and everything he had, being on the run since he was just a little boy. Presumed dead by everyone, Aleksio had time to plan his comeback. Now, he wants revenge, but more than that, he wants to reunite all three Dragusha brothers. He will do anything to accomplish that, even kidnap and use Mira Nikolla, his childhood friens and the daughter of the man who destroyed his life so many years ago.
Mira still remembers Aleksio and his two young brothers. Aleksio is not the same person she used to know. The ruthless killer he seems to be is a cold, calculated man, a man you don’t forget too easily, a man who oozes power so effortlessly. Aleksio never expected to be so drawn to Mira, to feel such a strong connection with her. As time passes and all the lines are slowly blurred, Aleksio’s revenge seems to complicate with each and every day.
Aleksio and Mira’s story was interesting, fast-paced, suspenseful and was told from multiple POVs. While the romance aspect didn’t wow me…like at all, I enjoyed the suspenseful elements. The suspense aspect was done well, was intriguing and unpredictable which I loved.
Aleksio was more an anti-hero than a hero which I personally enjoyed. He’s cold and calculated, a killer who seems not to care about anything and anyone, until he sees and gets to know Mira again. I think his portrayal was done pretty great. Our hero/anti-hero is not a bad man, not exactly. As the story unfolds we get to see how different he could be…in the future, how Mira has the power to change him. Since the story centers around Aleksio’s revenge we don’t get to know Mira very well. I would have wanted her character development to be at least as good as Aleksio’s. Needless to say she was just an okay heroine to me.
As for the romantic aspect between the two main characters…well, it was underdeveloped, rushed at times and left me with just a “meh” feeling. Don’t get me wrong I liked these two together and in some way I understood their connection, but sadly this connection between them wasn’t enough for me. Also, I wouldn’t have minded more sexy scenes between these two. I’m saying this because they really had potential to be combustible together.
The side characters were intriguing, and I’m talking about Viktor here. So it goes without saying I’m looking forward to read his story in the next installment.
Overall, this was a great first installment!
This was my second book by Mrs. Martin and while she didn’t blow me away with this one, I’m looking forward to read the next installments in the series. 'Dark Mafia Prince', the first book in this author’s newest series was an interesting mafia romantic suspense that despite a few issues I had with it, it kept my interest from start to finish. If you are like me and love mafia stories, then you will want to give this series a try. This first book in the series tells the story of Aleksio Dragusha, the Albanian Mafia Prince who wants his revenge no matter what.
“The three brothers together will rule...Apart they are weak, together they are strong. They will take everything.”
Aleksio used to be a mafia prince, the future head of the biggest Albanian Mafia family in Chicago. Everything changed for him one night, when he lost himself and everything he had, being on the run since he was just a little boy. Presumed dead by everyone, Aleksio had time to plan his comeback. Now, he wants revenge, but more than that, he wants to reunite all three Dragusha brothers. He will do anything to accomplish that, even kidnap and use Mira Nikolla, his childhood friens and the daughter of the man who destroyed his life so many years ago.
“I’m the most dangerous enemy you’ll ever have because every time you look at me, you see somebody who’s not there anymore. Because every time you look at me, you fool yourself about what I really am.”
Mira still remembers Aleksio and his two young brothers. Aleksio is not the same person she used to know. The ruthless killer he seems to be is a cold, calculated man, a man you don’t forget too easily, a man who oozes power so effortlessly. Aleksio never expected to be so drawn to Mira, to feel such a strong connection with her. As time passes and all the lines are slowly blurred, Aleksio’s revenge seems to complicate with each and every day.
Aleksio and Mira’s story was interesting, fast-paced, suspenseful and was told from multiple POVs. While the romance aspect didn’t wow me…like at all, I enjoyed the suspenseful elements. The suspense aspect was done well, was intriguing and unpredictable which I loved.
“I’ll be as fucked up as I need to be to get our baby brother back. I’ll trash my very soul to save him—it’s how it has to be.”
Aleksio was more an anti-hero than a hero which I personally enjoyed. He’s cold and calculated, a killer who seems not to care about anything and anyone, until he sees and gets to know Mira again. I think his portrayal was done pretty great. Our hero/anti-hero is not a bad man, not exactly. As the story unfolds we get to see how different he could be…in the future, how Mira has the power to change him. Since the story centers around Aleksio’s revenge we don’t get to know Mira very well. I would have wanted her character development to be at least as good as Aleksio’s. Needless to say she was just an okay heroine to me.
As for the romantic aspect between the two main characters…well, it was underdeveloped, rushed at times and left me with just a “meh” feeling. Don’t get me wrong I liked these two together and in some way I understood their connection, but sadly this connection between them wasn’t enough for me. Also, I wouldn’t have minded more sexy scenes between these two. I’m saying this because they really had potential to be combustible together.
The side characters were intriguing, and I’m talking about Viktor here. So it goes without saying I’m looking forward to read his story in the next installment.
Overall, this was a great first installment!
June 27, 2016
4 Stars
Well...hell. This was not at all what I expected, but damn if I didn't devour it in practically one sitting. This was not my first Annika Martin book, so I already knew this woman could write. What I didn't expect was for the story beyond the romance to suck me in so thoroughly. This book will come down to a matter of expectations, I think. If you're walking into it expecting your typical dark romance with a dash of plot, you won't get it. It's beyond that. The romance almost felt secondary at times, and I didn't mind it one bit. There was just enough of it to keep my interest and not overwhelm from everything else that happens. The story will span three books, each book focusing on a different Dragusha brother with their individual HEA. So don't expect everything to be wrapped up with a neat little bow at the end of this one.
Aleksio Dragusha was a mafia prince well on his way to being the future head of the biggest Albanian mafia family residing in Chicago...until one bloody night when he lost everything. Now he only had two goals: reunite all three Dragusha brothers and make those responsible for what happened those years ago pay...in blood. And the center of his focus is the daughter of the man that's set it all in motion. Mira is not at all the young girl he remembered when he was just nine. She's different and that's good, all the easier to forget what she used to mean to him...
Mira recognizes the eyes of the boy that used to be her world, but she doesn't recognize the cold and ruthless killer he turned into. A man that will do anything to find his baby brother and reunite the Dragusha brothers once and for all so that they can take back their rightful empire.
But soon lines begin to blur, and what was revenge begins to bleed into something much more...
The story is told in alternating POVs; Mira, Aleksio, and a few snippets of Viktor, Aleksio's younger brother. The primary focus seemed to be the backstory of the brothers and the search for the youngest Dragusha. It takes you deep into the underbelly of the violent mafia world and spares no detail. Aleksio is a true anti-hero. This man is no sunshine and rainbows. But while being the bloodthirsty killer he is, there's still a semblance of redemption to him with the way he is with Mira. But he never quite loses his edge either...
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I was riveted to the action and building story arc, but at times I found the romance to be a little too rushed. I wanted a little more burn between Aleksio and Mira. Then again, considering their connection, it's understandable that things would progress the way that they did.
I did wish there may have been a little more time spent on the development on the romance, and the pervert in me wouldn't have minded at least one more scene with Mira and Aleksio...uhem. But that aside, I enjoyed this thoroughly.
There's quite a few secondary characters introduced, but the one that really stole the show for me here was Viktor. And then when his possible heroine was unveiled? Holy mother of intrigue! I can't wait! Don't even get me started on the youngest brother, Kiro, because I'm fairly certain I'd be willing to part with an ovary for his book.
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
Find me on:
I'm the most dangerous enemy you'll ever have because every time you look at me, you see somebody who's not there anymore. Because every time you look at me, you fool yourself about what I really am.
Well...hell. This was not at all what I expected, but damn if I didn't devour it in practically one sitting. This was not my first Annika Martin book, so I already knew this woman could write. What I didn't expect was for the story beyond the romance to suck me in so thoroughly. This book will come down to a matter of expectations, I think. If you're walking into it expecting your typical dark romance with a dash of plot, you won't get it. It's beyond that. The romance almost felt secondary at times, and I didn't mind it one bit. There was just enough of it to keep my interest and not overwhelm from everything else that happens. The story will span three books, each book focusing on a different Dragusha brother with their individual HEA. So don't expect everything to be wrapped up with a neat little bow at the end of this one.
Aleksio Dragusha was a mafia prince well on his way to being the future head of the biggest Albanian mafia family residing in Chicago...until one bloody night when he lost everything. Now he only had two goals: reunite all three Dragusha brothers and make those responsible for what happened those years ago pay...in blood. And the center of his focus is the daughter of the man that's set it all in motion. Mira is not at all the young girl he remembered when he was just nine. She's different and that's good, all the easier to forget what she used to mean to him...
Mira recognizes the eyes of the boy that used to be her world, but she doesn't recognize the cold and ruthless killer he turned into. A man that will do anything to find his baby brother and reunite the Dragusha brothers once and for all so that they can take back their rightful empire.
But soon lines begin to blur, and what was revenge begins to bleed into something much more...
The story is told in alternating POVs; Mira, Aleksio, and a few snippets of Viktor, Aleksio's younger brother. The primary focus seemed to be the backstory of the brothers and the search for the youngest Dragusha. It takes you deep into the underbelly of the violent mafia world and spares no detail. Aleksio is a true anti-hero. This man is no sunshine and rainbows. But while being the bloodthirsty killer he is, there's still a semblance of redemption to him with the way he is with Mira. But he never quite loses his edge either...
[image error]
I was riveted to the action and building story arc, but at times I found the romance to be a little too rushed. I wanted a little more burn between Aleksio and Mira. Then again, considering their connection, it's understandable that things would progress the way that they did.
I did wish there may have been a little more time spent on the development on the romance, and the pervert in me wouldn't have minded at least one more scene with Mira and Aleksio...uhem. But that aside, I enjoyed this thoroughly.
There's quite a few secondary characters introduced, but the one that really stole the show for me here was Viktor. And then when his possible heroine was unveiled? Holy mother of intrigue! I can't wait! Don't even get me started on the youngest brother, Kiro, because I'm fairly certain I'd be willing to part with an ovary for his book.
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
Find me on:
June 20, 2016
༺**Complimentary Copy**༺ Provided by the author
"Annika Martin" in exchange for an honest review..Thank you!!
TITLE: Dark Mafia Prince
AUTHOR: Annika Martin
GENRE: Contemporary Romance
CHAPTERS: 30
RELEASE DATE: June 28th, 2016
MY RATING
I've not read anything prior to this by this author, I signed up for this because this genre is my all time favorites so I can't wait to start this and see where the author takes me with this book.
DARK MAFIA PRINCE: Told in triple POV'S
(Mira, Aleksio & Viktor)
Firstly we're introduced to Aleksio who was presumed dead, he was witness to his parents murder at the tender age of nine, his two brothers were stolen from him that night and he was placed in a Moscow orphanage with no identification, no one expected him to survive, least of all his enemies to see him rising up from the ashes of the dead.
It is presumed that ALL three boys are DEAD!!
All my life, that was the plan
Find my brothers so we can take,
Our Kingdom
Our Vengeance.
Three brothers
Aleksio
Viktor
Kiro
Only the three brothers as a united front can accomplish taking back the entire empire, to fulfill the prophecy.
Apart they are weak
Together they are strong
They will take everything.
Two brothers reunited after years being apart, now the last brother needs to be found and to do that these brothers need to bring down 'Aldo Nikolla.'
Mafia Princess, Mira is Aleksio's former child hood friend whom is his rival enemies daughter
No way will Mira recognize me,
I'm worlds different from the
good-natured mafia prince she knew.
I'm pretty much a different species.
Because when your're hunted every day
of your life, fighting for survival like
a rat in a pit of vipers, everything inside
you changes.
In stealth mode these two brothers are taking over a kingdom, shit is just about to get real, endless searching to save a brother before it's too late, dead end after dead end..
A kidnapping for collateral damage, a re-connection between two childhood friends
Our lives run in opposite and opposing directions
I care about the rule of law
He lives to break it
I'm all about rescuing kids from a lifestyle he promotes.
*Teaser used is off the authors FB page*
This had everything I could ever wish for, need in a mafia book, the blood bath, violence & vengeance go hand in hand, the hunting for a lost brother, love, betrayal, the grittiness it all made for a riveting nail biting read.
"Annika Martin" in exchange for an honest review..Thank you!!
TITLE: Dark Mafia Prince
AUTHOR: Annika Martin
GENRE: Contemporary Romance
CHAPTERS: 30
RELEASE DATE: June 28th, 2016
MY RATING
I've not read anything prior to this by this author, I signed up for this because this genre is my all time favorites so I can't wait to start this and see where the author takes me with this book.
DARK MAFIA PRINCE: Told in triple POV'S
(Mira, Aleksio & Viktor)
Firstly we're introduced to Aleksio who was presumed dead, he was witness to his parents murder at the tender age of nine, his two brothers were stolen from him that night and he was placed in a Moscow orphanage with no identification, no one expected him to survive, least of all his enemies to see him rising up from the ashes of the dead.
It is presumed that ALL three boys are DEAD!!
All my life, that was the plan
Find my brothers so we can take,
Our Kingdom
Our Vengeance.
Three brothers
Aleksio
Viktor
Kiro
Only the three brothers as a united front can accomplish taking back the entire empire, to fulfill the prophecy.
Apart they are weak
Together they are strong
They will take everything.
Two brothers reunited after years being apart, now the last brother needs to be found and to do that these brothers need to bring down 'Aldo Nikolla.'
Mafia Princess, Mira is Aleksio's former child hood friend whom is his rival enemies daughter
No way will Mira recognize me, I'm worlds different from the
good-natured mafia prince she knew.
I'm pretty much a different species.
Because when your're hunted every day
of your life, fighting for survival like
a rat in a pit of vipers, everything inside
you changes.
In stealth mode these two brothers are taking over a kingdom, shit is just about to get real, endless searching to save a brother before it's too late, dead end after dead end..
A kidnapping for collateral damage, a re-connection between two childhood friends
Our lives run in opposite and opposing directionsI care about the rule of law
He lives to break it
I'm all about rescuing kids from a lifestyle he promotes.
*Teaser used is off the authors FB page*
This had everything I could ever wish for, need in a mafia book, the blood bath, violence & vengeance go hand in hand, the hunting for a lost brother, love, betrayal, the grittiness it all made for a riveting nail biting read.
October 2, 2016
I JUST REALIZED THAT THIS IS MY 500th REVIEW AND BOOK READ OF 2016!!
I'm rating this 3.5 stars
After reading the blurb, and considering the premise of this story, I expected A LOT. I imagined mafia-style killings and dealings and a complicated revenge plot. While these things kind of existed, they were pretty much glossed over. I kept waiting for that something more. For more details because this couldn't be it?! This story started off strong in the beginning, but it fell off. So while this book was entertaining and suspenseful, it read like a contemporary romance (why involve the mafia at all???). It failed to keep me enthralled, thrilled or delighted.
It could be me and my silly expectations. However, there were a few things that made this book off to me:
I'm invested enough in the quest for Kiro and will be reading Wicked Mafia Prince and I pray that these issues aren't repeated. Viktor was quite deadly in this book and I hope he remains the same for his own story. DON'T WUSS OUT!! Keep it 100 or else dude!!
All views expressed are my own. 100% honest 100% of the time!!
I'm rating this 3.5 stars
After reading the blurb, and considering the premise of this story, I expected A LOT. I imagined mafia-style killings and dealings and a complicated revenge plot. While these things kind of existed, they were pretty much glossed over. I kept waiting for that something more. For more details because this couldn't be it?! This story started off strong in the beginning, but it fell off. So while this book was entertaining and suspenseful, it read like a contemporary romance (why involve the mafia at all???). It failed to keep me enthralled, thrilled or delighted.
It could be me and my silly expectations. However, there were a few things that made this book off to me:
1. Mira annoyed the sh*t out of me. No joke. And I hate being annoyed by the main chick. She was a mafia princess and dedicated lawyer living in denial. Maybe its because she gave all of us legal professionals a bad rep. Like we're not observant or something. Like a lack of attention to detail is how we would win cases. Ignorance is no excuse. Ask any judge in any court anywhere! I wasn't impressed with this character. Got better things to do.
2. Aleksio went from cold, lethal and vengeful to pussycat status. WTF happened?! This is the prodigal Mafia Prince??? This is who is supposed to take the empire back? 'Oh, is that the man that helped kill my parents? Ok, let's let him live.' FOR NO REASON!! Oh no. Wait. Because dummy Mira wants a killer to stop being a killer. Oh, and for him NOT to get revenge for his parents. Because she knows what it's like to watch your parents be massacred and has a freaking say!! Gimme a freaking break already! What planet are these people on??? The only ting dark in this book was the colour of hair, suits and vehicles.
3. Nothing is really resolved between this couple or the story line and yet the next book isn't about them. Why put "The End" if it's not really the end? When there was nothing end-like to conclude the story?
I'm invested enough in the quest for Kiro and will be reading Wicked Mafia Prince and I pray that these issues aren't repeated. Viktor was quite deadly in this book and I hope he remains the same for his own story. DON'T WUSS OUT!! Keep it 100 or else dude!!
All views expressed are my own. 100% honest 100% of the time!!
June 28, 2016
NOW LIVE!!!
*Amazon US*Amazon UK*
Aleksio has been on the run since he was a young boy, ever since his parent's were murdered. Presumed dead by every one other than the man after him, he lived a hard life. But now he's back to get his revenge on the man responsible for his "death." And if he has to go through the mans daughter to get his vengeance, so be it. The Prince has risen, and no one is safe.
June has just been a really good month for me to discover new authors. I'm always a little hesitant when I'm reading an author I haven't read before, but so far it's worked out for me wonderfully lately, and Annika Martin is another example of why you should always try something new. I enjoyed her style of writing, and it kept me captivated for a few hours. Basically, anything that can make me ignore reality while three kids are running around my house is a thumbs up in my book.
My three star rating was because I went in to this book expecting a romance, which it was, but not enough for my liking. The majority of the book was focused on Aleksio and his hunt, rather than his interactions with Mira. I would have liked to see more of them together before the end since that's what I had my hopes set on.
My expectations got the better of me, but if you start this book without and hopes of a grand romance, I think you will thoroughly enjoy it. Yes, I was a little disappointed by the lack of scenes with both Aleksio and Mira, but the suspense of the book is what kept it good. I loved getting to see Aleksio and his brother search for answers and I never knew what they would do. I love when a character is unpredictable and it makes you pay attention to them to see how far they'd go to get what they want.
Bottom line, I think anyone that is obsessed with Mafia books like I am should give this a chance. Aleksio wasn't the typical Mafia Prince so I think many people will be surprised by him and his story. Dark Mafia Prince can be read as a standalone but I think by the end you'll be dying for the next story, just like I am.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
*Amazon US*Amazon UK*
Aleksio has been on the run since he was a young boy, ever since his parent's were murdered. Presumed dead by every one other than the man after him, he lived a hard life. But now he's back to get his revenge on the man responsible for his "death." And if he has to go through the mans daughter to get his vengeance, so be it. The Prince has risen, and no one is safe.
June has just been a really good month for me to discover new authors. I'm always a little hesitant when I'm reading an author I haven't read before, but so far it's worked out for me wonderfully lately, and Annika Martin is another example of why you should always try something new. I enjoyed her style of writing, and it kept me captivated for a few hours. Basically, anything that can make me ignore reality while three kids are running around my house is a thumbs up in my book.
My three star rating was because I went in to this book expecting a romance, which it was, but not enough for my liking. The majority of the book was focused on Aleksio and his hunt, rather than his interactions with Mira. I would have liked to see more of them together before the end since that's what I had my hopes set on.
My expectations got the better of me, but if you start this book without and hopes of a grand romance, I think you will thoroughly enjoy it. Yes, I was a little disappointed by the lack of scenes with both Aleksio and Mira, but the suspense of the book is what kept it good. I loved getting to see Aleksio and his brother search for answers and I never knew what they would do. I love when a character is unpredictable and it makes you pay attention to them to see how far they'd go to get what they want.
Bottom line, I think anyone that is obsessed with Mafia books like I am should give this a chance. Aleksio wasn't the typical Mafia Prince so I think many people will be surprised by him and his story. Dark Mafia Prince can be read as a standalone but I think by the end you'll be dying for the next story, just like I am.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
Shelved as 'dnf'
June 21, 2018DNF at chapter 5 / directly after the ‘forced oral sex’ scene 🤕🔨
July 12, 2016
Dark Mafia Prince is the perfect combination of fast paced, suspense, mystery and sensual sex scenes. I really enjoy the Mafia romance genre when it's written well, with a dark and sensual storyline I think a many readers will enjoy it.
The story starts of with two brothers Aleksio and Viktor, mafia heirs who are looking for their stolen brother and are ready to take back their kingdom. Aleksio the oldest brother probably the most broken but also has the one with the most control. He's on a mission to make those who broke he's family apart pay... slowly. When he and his childhood friend, Mira are reunited, all that craving for vengeance takes a back seat because the one thing he wants most in the world is Mira.
Aleksio's love is the dangerous kind of love that breaks all the rules. It's him killing and kidnapping as he goes after his brother. It's him pulling my hair and shoving his cock in my mouth.
I shouldn't think it's beautiful.
Alexsio's character was amazingnly intense, he's the perfect tortured hero/antihero, however you want to look at it. From the get go, you're aware of the intense feelings he has has for Mira, his feelings for her border on obsession. Yet he's also torn because they are quite frankly enemies, and he is torn between his loyalty to his family and the uncontrollable hunger he has for Mira. I also liked Mira's character although she was a little frustrating at times because of how she could only see the good in people which is probably why Aleksio loves her so much.
"I would tear apart the world looking for you." He kisses my forearm, I have the crazy sense of him as a large animal consuming me from the edges in.
I'm really excited about reading Viktor's book its obvious he looks up to his older brother but he seems like a much harder man than Aleksio, he's lost so much of the happy little boy he used to be. It makes for a really interesting story I think.
While this wasn't a very long book, it packed quite a punch. A lot happened and the story was developed enough to give the reader a little taste of the books to come without feeling rushed. If you enjoy Mafia Romance, you should definitely add this to your TBR.
The way he uses me is violent. Primitive. Demeaning. And all I can think is, don't stop.
ARC kindly provided by author in return for an honest review
March 17, 2017
He’s watched her from afar for most of her life. She thinks he’s dead.
Aleksio Dragusha was 9 years old when his parents were betrayed. He and his brothers were separated and sent away. Two decades later, he’s on a mission to reunite his family and take control of his stolen criminal empire. The only problem - the woman he watched grow up, his former childhood friend, is caught in the middle of the battle.
He’s drawn to her, in spite of using her as a pawn. Her presence could ruin everything he’s worked so hard to build. Aleksio and Mira are on opposite sides of dangerous war. The plot and storylines are interesting. The main characters are strong and complex. The setup for future plotlines is evident and definitely caught my attention. This is an intriguing start to a 3-part series. Aleksio and Mira’s story is full of action, drama, violence, and sexual chemistry. He wants to avenge his parents and keep her safely away. She can’t deny her feelings.
She’s closer to the young girl he remembers and nothing like the spoiled mafia princess persona she promotes on social media. After spending more time with Aleksio, she sees glimpses of the young boy she once loved. Will these two overcome the dangerous obstacles facing them to find true love?
Overall, I really enjoyed this read. This is my first experience with Annika Martin, but certainly won’t be my last. Looking forward to book 2.
Aleksio Dragusha was 9 years old when his parents were betrayed. He and his brothers were separated and sent away. Two decades later, he’s on a mission to reunite his family and take control of his stolen criminal empire. The only problem - the woman he watched grow up, his former childhood friend, is caught in the middle of the battle.
He’s drawn to her, in spite of using her as a pawn. Her presence could ruin everything he’s worked so hard to build. Aleksio and Mira are on opposite sides of dangerous war. The plot and storylines are interesting. The main characters are strong and complex. The setup for future plotlines is evident and definitely caught my attention. This is an intriguing start to a 3-part series. Aleksio and Mira’s story is full of action, drama, violence, and sexual chemistry. He wants to avenge his parents and keep her safely away. She can’t deny her feelings.
She’s closer to the young girl he remembers and nothing like the spoiled mafia princess persona she promotes on social media. After spending more time with Aleksio, she sees glimpses of the young boy she once loved. Will these two overcome the dangerous obstacles facing them to find true love?
Overall, I really enjoyed this read. This is my first experience with Annika Martin, but certainly won’t be my last. Looking forward to book 2.
December 21, 2020
3.5 ⭐
Mmmm mmmm!!!!!!! This was fast pace and steamy. And darkish not to dark.
Revenge and finding his baby brother that's what Aleksio is doing and he knows the man who knows where his brother is, only that man has a weak spot his old little friend Mira.. and when he kidnaps her and taught her father with threats to get his answer things get dirty and complicated fast. These two are fighting the attraction to one another and the outside world. Even if Mira was a prisoner she did talk back showed some sass and was pretty smart on some stuff. As for Aleksio I enjoyed him I do wish he was more alpha then he was like hurt my woman in fk you up type of way. I just wish he was more alphaish lol.
I'll be honest... I rather have non-con oral then have my finger cut off.. does that make me crazy yes yes it does 🤣🤣🤣
We do sometimes have 3 POVs so just a heads up on that.
No ow/om drama, No cheating, slight secondary character, drama, sexy times, no virgins
Recommend- yes/maybe
Cover-⭐⭐⭐
Heat Level-🌶🌶🌶🌶
Slow-instaburn
Tiny Push away from both
Humiliation/degeration (in bedroom)
Dub-conish/consent
Murder/Violence
Safe sex
Hea/HFN
Mmmm mmmm!!!!!!! This was fast pace and steamy. And darkish not to dark.
Revenge and finding his baby brother that's what Aleksio is doing and he knows the man who knows where his brother is, only that man has a weak spot his old little friend Mira.. and when he kidnaps her and taught her father with threats to get his answer things get dirty and complicated fast. These two are fighting the attraction to one another and the outside world. Even if Mira was a prisoner she did talk back showed some sass and was pretty smart on some stuff. As for Aleksio I enjoyed him I do wish he was more alpha then he was like hurt my woman in fk you up type of way. I just wish he was more alphaish lol.
I'll be honest... I rather have non-con oral then have my finger cut off.. does that make me crazy yes yes it does 🤣🤣🤣
We do sometimes have 3 POVs so just a heads up on that.
No ow/om drama, No cheating, slight secondary character, drama, sexy times, no virgins
Recommend- yes/maybe
Cover-⭐⭐⭐
Heat Level-🌶🌶🌶🌶
Slow-instaburn
Tiny Push away from both
Humiliation/degeration (in bedroom)
Dub-conish/consent
Murder/Violence
Safe sex
Hea/HFN
July 27, 2016
I had no idea what I was in for when I chose to read Dark Mafia Prince. All I can say is, this book is an adrenaline rush from the very first page and my heart was in my throat throughout the entire story. It’s non-stop action, major twists, and huge revelations at every turn. The writing is so vivid, I was thrust into the world of the Albanian mob, where loyalties reach only as far as the next takeover. Annika Martin spins a dark and compelling tale about a power, murder, brothers who survive against the odds, and their fight to take back what was stolen from them.
Aleskio is the rightful heir to the Albanian crime family that his father built, but that was taken away when his parents were brutally murdered. Presumed dead and on the run for years, he has trained and plotted his revenge. When Aleksio finally makes his move, the daughter of his enemy and childhood friend, Mira, gets caught in the crossfire.
Mira was raised by her father as a mafia princess, but she wants nothing to do with a life of crime. Instead, she creates a fake public persona so that she can live her life quietly outside of the crime family. When she is kidnapped by Aleksio, Mira cannot believe that he is the same person she once knew. He’s so cold and detached until their connection can no longer be denied.
This book lays the groundwork for the remaining books, so there was a lot of history to work through. I enjoyed getting to know both Aleksio and Mira through flashbacks and their own points-of-view. There were several times where I found Aleksio’s history to be utterly heartbreaking and all I wanted for him was the happy ending he deserved. He’s a complete anti-hero, but you can’t help but feel for him and what he has been through.
From the characters to the writing to the plot, it all worked amazingly well for me. While the majority of the story revolves around the danger, suspense, intrigue, and action, there is also enough love and compassion to temper the violence. I believe some parts of the story could have had more focus (especially with Mira’s development), but I am definitely hooked and plan to read the rest of this series as soon as possible.
▸ ARC generously provided in exchange for an honest review.
▸ Order: Kindle | Paperback | Kobo | iBooks | Nook
▸ For more reviews, visit
Aleskio is the rightful heir to the Albanian crime family that his father built, but that was taken away when his parents were brutally murdered. Presumed dead and on the run for years, he has trained and plotted his revenge. When Aleksio finally makes his move, the daughter of his enemy and childhood friend, Mira, gets caught in the crossfire.
Mira was raised by her father as a mafia princess, but she wants nothing to do with a life of crime. Instead, she creates a fake public persona so that she can live her life quietly outside of the crime family. When she is kidnapped by Aleksio, Mira cannot believe that he is the same person she once knew. He’s so cold and detached until their connection can no longer be denied.
This book lays the groundwork for the remaining books, so there was a lot of history to work through. I enjoyed getting to know both Aleksio and Mira through flashbacks and their own points-of-view. There were several times where I found Aleksio’s history to be utterly heartbreaking and all I wanted for him was the happy ending he deserved. He’s a complete anti-hero, but you can’t help but feel for him and what he has been through.
From the characters to the writing to the plot, it all worked amazingly well for me. While the majority of the story revolves around the danger, suspense, intrigue, and action, there is also enough love and compassion to temper the violence. I believe some parts of the story could have had more focus (especially with Mira’s development), but I am definitely hooked and plan to read the rest of this series as soon as possible.
▸ ARC generously provided in exchange for an honest review.
▸ Order: Kindle | Paperback | Kobo | iBooks | Nook
▸ For more reviews, visit
July 14, 2016
3.75 "the prophecy" stars
Well, of course these are still nice specimen to add to my ranks of mobsters: Aleksio and Viktor, two separated brothers who found each other after their family has been slaughtered and are now in pursuit of the third missing link, Kiro...
only to bring out the long pronounced prophecy:
The three brothers together will rule...Apart they are weak, together they are strong. They will take everything.
And to do that they need vengeance, they need blood spill, they need avantage point...and her name is the same as their nemesis...the man who destroyed their family for greed and taking over the criminal empire.
She's Mira Nikolla and she might be their vantage point and means to achieve the ultimate revenge but she takes an U turn on every segment in Aleksio's plan...
This started as a dark story, with vengence, kidnaping, rough and somewhat dubious actions...then it kind of mellowed towards the middle...
Aleksio is changing instantly, and not towards the dark...and i kind of resented that.
The interactions between the characters are a bit fuzzy and fast...going from NO to fuck YES in a speed of a light! Even though we get glimpses of explanations from their past and how they are linked, it seemed pushed and rushed to me.
Yes, It was a fast paced read, with lots of action, but i needed smth more emotionally palpable and i didnt find it. Fast pace brought the speedy ending when i actually needed a little bit more, but i myself am not sure what exactly was that i wanted in the first place, and that made me confused...see, fuzzy as hell.
All in all, i cant really state it wasnt good...it was, it just didnt reach the places where i wanted to be more involved into the story or the characters.
July 11, 2016
Copy provided by author in exchange for an honest review
Annika Martin delivers a no holds barred mafia romantic suspense novel that grips readers to the core as she unleashes a raw, unfiltered, suspenseful, and calculating mafia love story. Dark Mafia Prince is unlike any mafia romance story because Ms. Martin doesn’t make romance the forefront of the story, which works with this plot line. A part of me loved that romance was just a small snippet and backdrop to the story of Aleksio Dragusha and his plot for revenge.
The mafia prince Aleksio has one thing on his mind and only one thing. REVENGE. And the first task in completing is reuniting the Dragusha brothers and take down the family that ruined him and made him a ruthless monster. How far will you go? And for this suit-wearing mafia prince, the answer is simple…. Till the very end even if it mean blood.
Aleksio is driven by revenge and to find his younger brother. As Aleksio sets motion his plot for revenge, he set his eyes on the daughter of the man that destroyed his family. Eye for an eye. But what Aleksio didn’t expect is to get his feelings and emotions to be jumbled and blurred with his attraction for Mira. With Mira under his skin, will Aleksio be able to fulfill his goal and take back the empire that rightfully belongs to his family?
As I stated earlier, romance takes a backseat in Annika Martin’s Dark Mafia Prince. While there is an incorporation of romance, I love that Martin didn’t focus entirely on that but kept the focus on Aleksio, Viktor and their quest to take back the kingdom that is rightfully theirs. And so in this addictive intense gritty mafia suspense, Annika Martin holds readers captive as she pulls a nonstop vivid account of a family’s quest on revenge. All there is left to say, this book is just the beginning of a series that will sure leave you craving for more of the Dragusha brothers.
Review can also be found on Four Chicks Flipping Pages: http://fourchicksflippingpages.weebly...Annika Martin
Annika Martin delivers a no holds barred mafia romantic suspense novel that grips readers to the core as she unleashes a raw, unfiltered, suspenseful, and calculating mafia love story. Dark Mafia Prince is unlike any mafia romance story because Ms. Martin doesn’t make romance the forefront of the story, which works with this plot line. A part of me loved that romance was just a small snippet and backdrop to the story of Aleksio Dragusha and his plot for revenge.
The mafia prince Aleksio has one thing on his mind and only one thing. REVENGE. And the first task in completing is reuniting the Dragusha brothers and take down the family that ruined him and made him a ruthless monster. How far will you go? And for this suit-wearing mafia prince, the answer is simple…. Till the very end even if it mean blood.
Aleksio is driven by revenge and to find his younger brother. As Aleksio sets motion his plot for revenge, he set his eyes on the daughter of the man that destroyed his family. Eye for an eye. But what Aleksio didn’t expect is to get his feelings and emotions to be jumbled and blurred with his attraction for Mira. With Mira under his skin, will Aleksio be able to fulfill his goal and take back the empire that rightfully belongs to his family?
As I stated earlier, romance takes a backseat in Annika Martin’s Dark Mafia Prince. While there is an incorporation of romance, I love that Martin didn’t focus entirely on that but kept the focus on Aleksio, Viktor and their quest to take back the kingdom that is rightfully theirs. And so in this addictive intense gritty mafia suspense, Annika Martin holds readers captive as she pulls a nonstop vivid account of a family’s quest on revenge. All there is left to say, this book is just the beginning of a series that will sure leave you craving for more of the Dragusha brothers.
Review can also be found on Four Chicks Flipping Pages: http://fourchicksflippingpages.weebly...Annika Martin
July 26, 2016
4 “Sleeping King” Stars!!!
Three brothers. Mmmm. My kinda series.
“the suits, the codes, cufflinks just so. The sleeping king…”
One brother is missing. Aleksio and Viktor are on a war path to rain down hell onto the leading mafia king to find their brother. Aleksio is determined to reunite his family and take over his empire.
My Aleksio:
Aleksio’s love is the dangerous kind of love that breaks all the rules. It’s him killing and kidnapping as he goes after his brother. It’s him pulling my hair and shoving his cock in my mouth. I shouldn’t think it’s beautiful.
My Mira:
Mira is the daughter of the leading mafia king. Aleksio and Mira knew each other when they were kids, both children of mafia kings. Mira believes Aleksio to be dead, but she soon finds out that her own father is not what he seems. Aleksio kidnaps Mira (I LOVE kidnapping stories!), and holds her ransom in order to get information about his missing brother.
The story leads to many places to find the missing brother. At the same time, Aleksio and Mira grow closer to together. They are so hot together, and I love how Aleksio is with her. Dirty Talker = No Panties. Yes, please.
The way he uses me is violent. Primitive. Demeaning. And all I can think is, don’t stop.
I am a sucker for mafia romance, but this book is more than just romance. It’s a story. I love books that tell a story in addition to the romance. Why do I love mafia romance so much?! Probably because there is almost always a guaranteed alpha, and Aleksio did not disappoint in this one.
This book had my attention from start to finish. It was an easy, quick read that I didn’t want to end. Thankfully, it continues in the next book in the trilogy. Viktor, here I come!
Find me on
Three brothers. Mmmm. My kinda series.
“the suits, the codes, cufflinks just so. The sleeping king…”
One brother is missing. Aleksio and Viktor are on a war path to rain down hell onto the leading mafia king to find their brother. Aleksio is determined to reunite his family and take over his empire.
My Aleksio:
Aleksio’s love is the dangerous kind of love that breaks all the rules. It’s him killing and kidnapping as he goes after his brother. It’s him pulling my hair and shoving his cock in my mouth. I shouldn’t think it’s beautiful.
My Mira:
Mira is the daughter of the leading mafia king. Aleksio and Mira knew each other when they were kids, both children of mafia kings. Mira believes Aleksio to be dead, but she soon finds out that her own father is not what he seems. Aleksio kidnaps Mira (I LOVE kidnapping stories!), and holds her ransom in order to get information about his missing brother.
The story leads to many places to find the missing brother. At the same time, Aleksio and Mira grow closer to together. They are so hot together, and I love how Aleksio is with her. Dirty Talker = No Panties. Yes, please.
The way he uses me is violent. Primitive. Demeaning. And all I can think is, don’t stop.
I am a sucker for mafia romance, but this book is more than just romance. It’s a story. I love books that tell a story in addition to the romance. Why do I love mafia romance so much?! Probably because there is almost always a guaranteed alpha, and Aleksio did not disappoint in this one.
This book had my attention from start to finish. It was an easy, quick read that I didn’t want to end. Thankfully, it continues in the next book in the trilogy. Viktor, here I come!
Find me on
July 12, 2016
This was just an ok book for me. It actually took me awhile to get fully into it, and when I did I still felt like the romance side of the story was very minimal. It is a great mafia story, with a hint of romance!!! I will admit though, by the end I was very intrigued to continue with this series as I am dying to learn about the missing brother.
All in all, if you are into mafia books, then this is definitely one you should give a go, just go in with lower expectations on whether or not you are going to get an epic romance out of it!!!
All in all, if you are into mafia books, then this is definitely one you should give a go, just go in with lower expectations on whether or not you are going to get an epic romance out of it!!!
June 28, 2016
So much more than I expected.
I have to say this book was so much more than I expected and while I think 4 stars would be a more accurate rating I just loved this book, I couldn't get enough and for sheer enjoyment alone I'm giving it the elusive 5 stars.
Aleksio Dragusha's was just nine years old when his life was ripped away from him with the murder of his parents. The young Mafia prince watched while hidden in a chubby as his parents trusted friend Aldo Nikolla slit their throats. Aldo then hunted Alekiso, put a price on his head and separated his brothers Viktor and Kiro.
Aleksio is not a boy anymore and he's after revenge but first he wants to reunite with his brothers, he found Viktor a year ago and together they're formidable but now they need Kiro and they're running out of time.
Aldo has one weakness his daughter Mira and they plan to do anything they have to do to break him, when they were children Mira and Aleksio were friends but now she's just a spoilt Mafia princess who spends all her time shopping so it should be easy but it turns out she's not what he expected and the more time they spend together the more they feel the pull between them.
This is a multi POV book Aleksio, Mira and Viktor all have their say and I seriously can't wait for the next book which is Viktors and I'm so looking forward to Kiro's.
This is the first in series, this isn't a standalone you need to read them all, it's also far-fetched and crazy so you've been warned.
![Profile Image for Vaishali • [V.L. Book Reviews] .](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/users/1552133842i/85343546._UY200_CR5,0,200,200_.jpg)
January 17, 2023
RATING: 2.5/3 stars to Dark Mafia Prince ★ ★ ★
July 11, 2016
Aleksio Dragusha had his future empire ripped away from him when he was a young boy right along with his baby brothers. But he’s back for vengeance and to reclaim this throne in the mafia world.
“Don’t let anyone tell you crime doesn’t pay.”
Mira Nicolla still sees the innocent prince she played with as a child before she believed him dead in the attack against his family. Though a mafia princess herself, Mira has no desire for that violent world and lives practically a separate indentify behind the façade she’s had built to keep herself safe.
Mira is a bleeding heart and at certain places I wanted her to be a bit more… badass. Maybe even Aleksio too. Don’t get me wrong he’s an alpha male and possessive but given his mafia heritage I think I expected him to be more deviously dangerous. I kinda felt the attempts to mold him into a romantic hero left him a little too soft at times for a dark character in this romantic suspense, though I did like Aleskio.
“She has every reason to hate me but she’s mine….She’s mine. She always was. And I’ll probably do some more things she hates today, but she’ll still be mine.”
On the romantic front I just craved something more—definitely more steamy times but also more development between them. There’s quite a few places where they’re doing their own thing and then there’s the whole different approaches to the world that had both of them playing a game of ping pong with whether they could be together. On the plus side, there is also absolutely no OW/OM drama—nadda! Both are single and no mentions of past lovers. You don’t see that nearly often enough these days.
The suspense part kept me turning pages and not wanting to put the book down! I’m still dying for more resolutions and to meet the infamous baby prince—an angle that most definitely had a unique and original spin. There are some very interesting developments there that I can’t wait to see how it unfolds. The intrigue and action-adventure aspect really propelled the story and kept it engaging.
This is the first book in the series about the three princes and while it doesn’t end in a cliffhanger, the overall story arc is ongoing, though each book features a different brother. This story is told via Aleksio, Mira, and Viktor’s first person point of view.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review/blog tour
Excerpt Reveal:
http://book-bosomed.blogspot.com/2016...
“Don’t let anyone tell you crime doesn’t pay.”
Mira Nicolla still sees the innocent prince she played with as a child before she believed him dead in the attack against his family. Though a mafia princess herself, Mira has no desire for that violent world and lives practically a separate indentify behind the façade she’s had built to keep herself safe.
Mira is a bleeding heart and at certain places I wanted her to be a bit more… badass. Maybe even Aleksio too. Don’t get me wrong he’s an alpha male and possessive but given his mafia heritage I think I expected him to be more deviously dangerous. I kinda felt the attempts to mold him into a romantic hero left him a little too soft at times for a dark character in this romantic suspense, though I did like Aleskio.
“She has every reason to hate me but she’s mine….She’s mine. She always was. And I’ll probably do some more things she hates today, but she’ll still be mine.”
On the romantic front I just craved something more—definitely more steamy times but also more development between them. There’s quite a few places where they’re doing their own thing and then there’s the whole different approaches to the world that had both of them playing a game of ping pong with whether they could be together. On the plus side, there is also absolutely no OW/OM drama—nadda! Both are single and no mentions of past lovers. You don’t see that nearly often enough these days.
The suspense part kept me turning pages and not wanting to put the book down! I’m still dying for more resolutions and to meet the infamous baby prince—an angle that most definitely had a unique and original spin. There are some very interesting developments there that I can’t wait to see how it unfolds. The intrigue and action-adventure aspect really propelled the story and kept it engaging.
This is the first book in the series about the three princes and while it doesn’t end in a cliffhanger, the overall story arc is ongoing, though each book features a different brother. This story is told via Aleksio, Mira, and Viktor’s first person point of view.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review/blog tour
Excerpt Reveal:
http://book-bosomed.blogspot.com/2016...
June 30, 2016
Dark Mafia Prince
(Dark Mafia Prince #1)
By Annika Martin
This one absolutely capturing me from the start. The story is written in three POVs (Aleksio, Mira & Viktor).
“Only the three Dragusha brother together can win this fight”
Aleksio- Seen his parents being slaughter at age of 9 years, his two brother ship off to unknown… Aleksio is back to claim his dynasty & Mira, his former childhood friend who is also the daughter of his enemy & most important is to find his brother
Mira-Appeared to be the Plastic Princess, but in reality she just plain jane in jeans that work at the advocacy center as lawyer..
“This man is so much bigger.. So much harder & meaner the boy I once knew “
Viktor-was pulled from orphanage at an early age , is raised in Russian Mafiya & hard Cold killer… Viktor not sure if he even feels his kills anymore
Viktor not sure if Aleksio can kill Mira if needed
This has it all- Blood- vengeance-Suspense - betrayal-Hot Sex7 Plenty of violence …. Everything a Mafia book should have
1- Aleksio-Dark Mafia Prince -6-28-16
2- Viktor- Wicked Mafia Prince -7-26-16
3- Kiro- Savage Mafia Prince -9-13-16
**ARC generously provided by author in exchange for an honest review.**
(Dark Mafia Prince #1)
By Annika Martin
This one absolutely capturing me from the start. The story is written in three POVs (Aleksio, Mira & Viktor).
“Only the three Dragusha brother together can win this fight”
Aleksio- Seen his parents being slaughter at age of 9 years, his two brother ship off to unknown… Aleksio is back to claim his dynasty & Mira, his former childhood friend who is also the daughter of his enemy & most important is to find his brother
Mira-Appeared to be the Plastic Princess, but in reality she just plain jane in jeans that work at the advocacy center as lawyer..
“This man is so much bigger.. So much harder & meaner the boy I once knew “
Viktor-was pulled from orphanage at an early age , is raised in Russian Mafiya & hard Cold killer… Viktor not sure if he even feels his kills anymore
Viktor not sure if Aleksio can kill Mira if needed
This has it all- Blood- vengeance-Suspense - betrayal-Hot Sex7 Plenty of violence …. Everything a Mafia book should have
1- Aleksio-Dark Mafia Prince -6-28-16
2- Viktor- Wicked Mafia Prince -7-26-16
3- Kiro- Savage Mafia Prince -9-13-16
**ARC generously provided by author in exchange for an honest review.**
Shelved as 'consider-later'
June 22, 2016
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June 28, 2016
4.5 Stars
‘When you’re a killer, ugly and bloody and beaten to shit, you don’t hate the stars for shining. You’re glad there’s something good out there.’
We absolutely love our Mafia stories and having read Annika Martin before we had a feeling this was going to be a fabulous read. And it really was. The Dark Mafia Prince had suspense, thrills and dark passion. It was incredibly addictive and beneath the violence, vengeance and darkness hides soft hearts and lost love of friends and brothers.
“I’m the most dangerous enemy you’ll ever have because every time you look at me, you see somebody who’s not there anymore. Because every time you look at me, you fool yourself about what I really am.”
There were so many secrets which surrounded an old tale – a premonition if you will – that one day the three brothers will reunite and take back what’s rightfully theirs. These three brothers were separated by a violent tragedy and sent away resulting in absolutely horrific childhoods.
‘The sleeping king, he always called me. You will gather your brothers and take back your kingdom.’
This is the basis for the intense and fast paced story of Aleksio. We follow two brothers -Aleksio and Viktor- on their quest to find their long lost baby brother –Kiro- not knowing if he’s alive or dead. It all begins with getting the necessary leverage to extract valuable information of his whereabouts. This leverage is Mafia Princess, Mira. But Mira is not just a bargaining tool. She’s Aleksio’s past, present and possible future.
“I always watched you. Always saw you. You were always mine.”
So many secrets, a premonition by an old crone, revenge and old friendships and the power of family. Two broken characters, tragic discoveries and dark violent consequences beyond control. Passion, lust and love. Enemies, friendship and loyalty. It’s all there to discover in The Dark Mafia Prince a vengeful journey where not all is what it seems.
“I would tear apart the world looking for you.”
Annika Martin is a brilliant writer and we were completely consumed by this story wanting more, more and more. We were gutted when it ended, but as they say where one finishes another begins and we’re so excited for the next instalment in this series, which will be Viktor’s story.
‘Apart they are weak, together they are strong. They will take everything.’
Come visit and follow us at:
✲ TotallybookedBlog
✲ TB on Facebook
✲ TB on Twitter
✲ TB on Pinterest
June 29, 2016
4.5 Stars
‘When you’re a killer, ugly and bloody and beaten to shit, you don’t hate the stars for shining. You’re glad there’s something good out there.’
We absolutely love our Mafia stories and having read Annika Martin before we had a feeling this was going to be a fabulous read. And it really was. The Dark Mafia Prince had suspense, thrills and dark passion. It was incredibly addictive and beneath the violence, vengeance and darkness hides soft hearts and lost love of friends and brothers.
“I’m the most dangerous enemy you’ll ever have because every time you look at me, you see somebody who’s not there anymore. Because every time you look at me, you fool yourself about what I really am.”
There were so many secrets which surrounded an old tale – a premonition if you will – that one day the three brothers will reunite and take back what’s rightfully theirs. These three brothers were separated by a violent tragedy and sent away resulting in absolutely horrific childhoods.
‘The sleeping king, he always called me. You will gather your brothers and take back your kingdom.’
This is the basis for the intense and fast paced story of Aleksio. We follow two brothers -Aleksio and Viktor- on their quest to find their long lost baby brother –Kiro- not knowing if he’s alive or dead. It all begins with getting the necessary leverage to extract valuable information of his whereabouts. This leverage is Mafia Princess, Mira. But Mira is not just a bargaining tool. She’s Aleksio’s past, present and possible future.
“I always watched you. Always saw you. You were always mine.”
So many secrets, a premonition by an old crone, revenge and old friendships and the power of family. Two broken characters, tragic discoveries and dark violent consequences beyond control. Passion, lust and love. Enemies, friendship and loyalty. It’s all there to discover in The Dark Mafia Prince a vengeful journey where not all is what it seems.
“I would tear apart the world looking for you.”
Annika Martin is a brilliant writer and we were completely consumed by this story wanting more, more and more. We were gutted when it ended, but as they say where one finishes another begins and we’re so excited for the next instalment in this series, which will be Viktor’s story.
‘Apart they are weak, together they are strong. They will take everything.’
Come visit and follow us at:
✲ TotallybookedBlog
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September 21, 2020
Spoilers ahead, reread
As a child Alexsio witnessed the brutal murder of his parents and kidnapping of his brothers by his father's best friend and his men. He was rescued by his bodyguard who then spent years keeping him hidden and preparing him for revenge. Finally locating his brother Viktor Alexsio is ready to take on his enemies to find his missing brother Kiro. For years he's watched the man and his beloved daughter live the life that was meant to be his....the time has finally come to strike back, by taking his biggest weakness his daughter Mira....once Alexsio's best friend, now a tool to be used in his revenge
As a child Alexsio was her closest friend, until his entire family was murdered. As an adult Mira stays away from her father's business though he claims to be legit. She has someone pretending to live the spoiled mafia princess life while she lives quietly in the Bronx working as a lawyer. Her life is shattered when men storm her father's compound and take her hostage in exchange for information about a missing man. While her captor seems familiar Mira is stunned to realize it's Alexsio who she thought had died. But with his actions come shocking secrets about her own father's choices. Mira is attracted to Alexsio but is determined not to live a life of violence and crime. When things come to a head difficult choices must be made
**********
I will say I enjoyed this for the most part though not as much as I originally did b because my rating was lowered.
I felt that the mafia/romance balance wasn't handled well, maybe the book needed to be longer because so much page space went into the drama of finding Kiro that the development of the relationship suffered making the "I !ove you" highly unbelievable
While there was some action and bad guys died it wasn't as violent as I expected. I do admit I prefer my mafia guys to be of the breaking bones and pumping lead variety so Alexsio's change in the end wasn't as pleasing to me lol. I wanted him to kill Lazarus and his brother
There was a scene at the beginning of the captivity that pushed up on my boundaries a bit but it didn't really bother me . In a bid to get more information from her father about his brother's whereabouts Alexsio had planned to send him Mira's finger, but she pleaded with him and a bj was offered as her alternative. He filmed it intending to send it to her father. During this he called her names and used harsh phrases , as Mira enjoyed it I wasn't as bothered but I'm still not a fan of the "whore" being used during sexy times
All in all it wasn't as good as I remembered but definitely wasn't as bad as I expected.
No cheating
BJ scene described above
h was kidnapped by the H
No real details on their sexual pasts, condom use
Name calling during sex
Original thoughts
I actually enjoyed this more than I ever thought i would,even with the name calling during sexy times which is very much not my thing. But it was pretty interesting and exciting and I love mafia stories so it definitely worked for me.
As a child Alexsio witnessed the brutal murder of his parents and kidnapping of his brothers by his father's best friend and his men. He was rescued by his bodyguard who then spent years keeping him hidden and preparing him for revenge. Finally locating his brother Viktor Alexsio is ready to take on his enemies to find his missing brother Kiro. For years he's watched the man and his beloved daughter live the life that was meant to be his....the time has finally come to strike back, by taking his biggest weakness his daughter Mira....once Alexsio's best friend, now a tool to be used in his revenge
As a child Alexsio was her closest friend, until his entire family was murdered. As an adult Mira stays away from her father's business though he claims to be legit. She has someone pretending to live the spoiled mafia princess life while she lives quietly in the Bronx working as a lawyer. Her life is shattered when men storm her father's compound and take her hostage in exchange for information about a missing man. While her captor seems familiar Mira is stunned to realize it's Alexsio who she thought had died. But with his actions come shocking secrets about her own father's choices. Mira is attracted to Alexsio but is determined not to live a life of violence and crime. When things come to a head difficult choices must be made
**********
I will say I enjoyed this for the most part though not as much as I originally did b because my rating was lowered.
I felt that the mafia/romance balance wasn't handled well, maybe the book needed to be longer because so much page space went into the drama of finding Kiro that the development of the relationship suffered making the "I !ove you" highly unbelievable
While there was some action and bad guys died it wasn't as violent as I expected. I do admit I prefer my mafia guys to be of the breaking bones and pumping lead variety so Alexsio's change in the end wasn't as pleasing to me lol. I wanted him to kill Lazarus and his brother
There was a scene at the beginning of the captivity that pushed up on my boundaries a bit but it didn't really bother me . In a bid to get more information from her father about his brother's whereabouts Alexsio had planned to send him Mira's finger, but she pleaded with him and a bj was offered as her alternative. He filmed it intending to send it to her father. During this he called her names and used harsh phrases , as Mira enjoyed it I wasn't as bothered but I'm still not a fan of the "whore" being used during sexy times
All in all it wasn't as good as I remembered but definitely wasn't as bad as I expected.
No cheating
BJ scene described above
h was kidnapped by the H
No real details on their sexual pasts, condom use
Name calling during sex
Original thoughts
I actually enjoyed this more than I ever thought i would,even with the name calling during sexy times which is very much not my thing. But it was pretty interesting and exciting and I love mafia stories so it definitely worked for me.
October 28, 2016
2.5 stars
Dark Mafia Prince was an ok read for me. I liked the concept of the story but unfortunately the execution fell flat. I didn't feel any connection between Aleksio and Mira. During their short intimate scenes I found myself thinking about what I should read next. I was very disappointed that Aleksio's view of how he was going to take back what belongs to him and his brothers changed and he was now going to do it but not in a bloody way. Hello is this the mafia he had the chance to kill a major player and he didn't because she told him he was better than that WTF??? Not my type of mafia man or should I call him The Sleeping King. The only reason I may consider continuing is because I'm interested in book 3.
Dark Mafia Prince was an ok read for me. I liked the concept of the story but unfortunately the execution fell flat. I didn't feel any connection between Aleksio and Mira. During their short intimate scenes I found myself thinking about what I should read next. I was very disappointed that Aleksio's view of how he was going to take back what belongs to him and his brothers changed and he was now going to do it but not in a bloody way. Hello is this the mafia he had the chance to kill a major player and he didn't because she told him he was better than that WTF??? Not my type of mafia man or should I call him The Sleeping King. The only reason I may consider continuing is because I'm interested in book 3.
July 6, 2016
Dark Mafia Prince by Annika Martin
4.5 stars!!!
I do love my Mafia romances and Annika Martin really delivered with Dark Mafia Prince, this is the first in the series and after this book I am seriously salivating for book two. Dark Mafia Prince centres around an old premonition from an old lady that was definitely given too much credence. But this woman was typically correct and so the lives of a family were put in peril before the premonition could come true. Three brothers, two parents, never to be seen again…until…
This book is predominantly Aleksio’s story but also gives us a great introduction to the premise and back story of this novel. Aleksio had watched his parents murder at the hands of his father’s business partner. A man who Aleksio had trusted and had grown up around. His two brothers were never to be seen again. Aleksio escaped with help and now, no longer a nine-year-old the mafia man had been born and he was bigger and stronger than ever. Now, years on, it was time to put that premonition to the test. Aleksio had reunited with his brother Viktor, but one brother was still missing, Kiro and now it was their mission to find him as well as bring down the man that destroyed their family.
Aleksio needed a bargaining tool when it came to gaining the information that would lead them to Kiro’s whereabouts and from none other than the mafia king himself. Therefore, on their riskiest mission to date they kidnap his daughter, Mira. Mira had been Aleksio’s best friend growing up, these two spent all their time together and from afar over the years Aleksio has watched her grow from a child to a woman. Coming face to face though is harder than he ever anticipated and it is not long before old feelings bubble to the surface and suddenly playing the long game is rather distracting and incredibly difficult.
Annika Martin really delivered an incredibly captivating story as lies and secrets are revealed as Aleksio and his men get closer to discovering Kiro’s whereabouts. Loyalties are tested, old wounds are opened, horrific memories lived once again. But in this tale of vengeance, retribution, family and love, different sides are seen and nothing is as it seems. With powerful words, dripping with emotion and sincerity Annika Martin will have Aleksio in the palm of your hand in no time and firmly embedded in your heart. While our tough warrior exudes power, presence and apathy, underneath is a man whose family is everything and despite the consequences loves the daughter of the enemy.
I was gutted when this story came to a close, I was totally ensconced in this world that Annika Martin had so eloquently delivered and am eagerly anticipating Viktor’s story who is up next. Assuming book three is Kiro’s I cannot wait to see what happens in this next book, from the little we know about Kiro there is a lot of meat left and I for one will be eagerly anticipating its release.
www.theromancecover.com
4.5 stars!!!
“The sleeping king, he always called me. You will gather your brothers and take back your kingdom.”
I do love my Mafia romances and Annika Martin really delivered with Dark Mafia Prince, this is the first in the series and after this book I am seriously salivating for book two. Dark Mafia Prince centres around an old premonition from an old lady that was definitely given too much credence. But this woman was typically correct and so the lives of a family were put in peril before the premonition could come true. Three brothers, two parents, never to be seen again…until…
“The three brothers together will rule. Apart they are weak, together they are strong. They will take everything.”
This book is predominantly Aleksio’s story but also gives us a great introduction to the premise and back story of this novel. Aleksio had watched his parents murder at the hands of his father’s business partner. A man who Aleksio had trusted and had grown up around. His two brothers were never to be seen again. Aleksio escaped with help and now, no longer a nine-year-old the mafia man had been born and he was bigger and stronger than ever. Now, years on, it was time to put that premonition to the test. Aleksio had reunited with his brother Viktor, but one brother was still missing, Kiro and now it was their mission to find him as well as bring down the man that destroyed their family.
“People change, and sometimes they lose their fucking soul.”
Aleksio needed a bargaining tool when it came to gaining the information that would lead them to Kiro’s whereabouts and from none other than the mafia king himself. Therefore, on their riskiest mission to date they kidnap his daughter, Mira. Mira had been Aleksio’s best friend growing up, these two spent all their time together and from afar over the years Aleksio has watched her grow from a child to a woman. Coming face to face though is harder than he ever anticipated and it is not long before old feelings bubble to the surface and suddenly playing the long game is rather distracting and incredibly difficult.
“You need to go rebuild the sandcastles that jerks like me kick down.”
Annika Martin really delivered an incredibly captivating story as lies and secrets are revealed as Aleksio and his men get closer to discovering Kiro’s whereabouts. Loyalties are tested, old wounds are opened, horrific memories lived once again. But in this tale of vengeance, retribution, family and love, different sides are seen and nothing is as it seems. With powerful words, dripping with emotion and sincerity Annika Martin will have Aleksio in the palm of your hand in no time and firmly embedded in your heart. While our tough warrior exudes power, presence and apathy, underneath is a man whose family is everything and despite the consequences loves the daughter of the enemy.
“Our lives run in opposite and opposing directions – I care about the rule of the law. He lives to break it. I’m all about rescuing kids from a lifestyle he promotes.”
I was gutted when this story came to a close, I was totally ensconced in this world that Annika Martin had so eloquently delivered and am eagerly anticipating Viktor’s story who is up next. Assuming book three is Kiro’s I cannot wait to see what happens in this next book, from the little we know about Kiro there is a lot of meat left and I for one will be eagerly anticipating its release.
“Don’t let the breaking game break you…”
www.theromancecover.com
September 4, 2017
4-4.5 Solid Stars
I truly liked this book a lot! The characters were great including the secondary ones and I am definitely continuing with this series!
I guess for me what was lacking was more of a "relationship" between them. what I got was great and very HOT but I felt like I only got a taste of them and I wanted and needed MORE because yes, they were so perfect for each other. Their chemistry was amazing and I would have liked to have seen "more" played together. The storyline was fascinating and intriguing and there was a lot of action and suspense. The writing was fantastic and I look forward to the next story in this series:)
I truly liked this book a lot! The characters were great including the secondary ones and I am definitely continuing with this series!
I guess for me what was lacking was more of a "relationship" between them. what I got was great and very HOT but I felt like I only got a taste of them and I wanted and needed MORE because yes, they were so perfect for each other. Their chemistry was amazing and I would have liked to have seen "more" played together. The storyline was fascinating and intriguing and there was a lot of action and suspense. The writing was fantastic and I look forward to the next story in this series:)
Shelved as 'wishlist'
March 28, 2022The title sounds like it was made up in a word generator but I'm intrigued and I also got a copy for free a while ago so I guess we'll SEE
July 12, 2017
Loved it. I'm Albanian too and crime and mafia is something normal in my life even if I'm not included in it ,I'm just a outside spectator.
May 5, 2021
I’d say the only thing keeping me entertained while reading this was the (few) smutty scenes we got and the hero’s protectiveness over the heroine.
But other than that I found myself taking forever to get through it because I just didn’t care that much about the overall plot or its characters, unfortunately.
But other than that I found myself taking forever to get through it because I just didn’t care that much about the overall plot or its characters, unfortunately.
June 29, 2016
Dark Mafia Prince - the title is pretty much self-explanatory.
So yeah, you get mafia and you get a dark prince – or two ;-) Oh, but you also get so much more than that! You get heartbreak and intrigue, steamy passion and true love, violence and vengeance and edge-of-your-seat thrilling suspense.
After running and hiding since early childhood Aleksio has officially returned from the dead to take back what was his all along, his father’s stolen mafia empire and Mira’s heart.
Aleksio has been separated from his two brothers when a trusted family friend killed his parents and stole away his younger brothers. He recently found his brother Viktor and together they are running against the clock to find their youngest brother Kiro before their enemies do.
When Aleksio kidnaps Mira to force her father to give up Kiro’s location, he realizes she is so much more to him than just the daughter of his father’s killer and the enemy number one.
Mira first seems to be the typical spoiled mafia princess with only fashion, parties and shopping tours on her mind. And she plays the part well enough to hide her true self.
But she soon teaches Aleksio that looks – or in this case blogs – can be deceiving. Mira has a strong moral code, is loyal to a fault and doesn’t take long to remind Aleksio of the strong bond they’ve had since their childhood days. She manages to light up his darkness and the tension between her and Aleksio is thick and intense from the very start.
I love the author’s authentic and captivating writing style. Annika Martin continuously manages to get me so invested in her stories that I read way past my bedtime. And that doesn’t happen to me a lot any more!
So excited that book 2 (Viktor’s story) will already release this July! And OMG Kiro – can’t even imagine what’s in store for us when his book will release. Love the quick release schedule!
Also, big thumbs up for the gorgeous cover art!
*ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
So yeah, you get mafia and you get a dark prince – or two ;-) Oh, but you also get so much more than that! You get heartbreak and intrigue, steamy passion and true love, violence and vengeance and edge-of-your-seat thrilling suspense.
After running and hiding since early childhood Aleksio has officially returned from the dead to take back what was his all along, his father’s stolen mafia empire and Mira’s heart.
Aleksio has been separated from his two brothers when a trusted family friend killed his parents and stole away his younger brothers. He recently found his brother Viktor and together they are running against the clock to find their youngest brother Kiro before their enemies do.
When Aleksio kidnaps Mira to force her father to give up Kiro’s location, he realizes she is so much more to him than just the daughter of his father’s killer and the enemy number one.
Mira first seems to be the typical spoiled mafia princess with only fashion, parties and shopping tours on her mind. And she plays the part well enough to hide her true self.
But she soon teaches Aleksio that looks – or in this case blogs – can be deceiving. Mira has a strong moral code, is loyal to a fault and doesn’t take long to remind Aleksio of the strong bond they’ve had since their childhood days. She manages to light up his darkness and the tension between her and Aleksio is thick and intense from the very start.
I love the author’s authentic and captivating writing style. Annika Martin continuously manages to get me so invested in her stories that I read way past my bedtime. And that doesn’t happen to me a lot any more!
So excited that book 2 (Viktor’s story) will already release this July! And OMG Kiro – can’t even imagine what’s in store for us when his book will release. Love the quick release schedule!
Also, big thumbs up for the gorgeous cover art!
*ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
July 30, 2017
I like how the brothers stories are interwoven in all the books. I liked the H/h and their backstory. The violence is not as gritty/raw as some other books I've read - but satisfied my need for some pulpy fiction. I read book 3 first, then this one. I'm not having a problem doing so, but others might. 3 - 3.5 stars.
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