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Mafia Brides #1
Taken By Him
Her father made a deal. An agreement that Kasia Garska must now fulfill. Marriage to a man who would as easily toss her to the streets as he would take his next breath.
While Dominik's father is in Poland, hiding from impending legal trouble in Chicago, Dominik must take control of the family and move forward with a long ago agreement. There is suspicion the Garska family is behind the charges, and Dominik firmly believes in the adage of keeping your enemies close.
Kasia is not the enemy Dominik expected, and before long he wants more than to keep a watchful eye on her father. He wants her. To possess her, punish her, truly own her.
And he will, because Kasia is his to take.
While Dominik's father is in Poland, hiding from impending legal trouble in Chicago, Dominik must take control of the family and move forward with a long ago agreement. There is suspicion the Garska family is behind the charges, and Dominik firmly believes in the adage of keeping your enemies close.
Kasia is not the enemy Dominik expected, and before long he wants more than to keep a watchful eye on her father. He wants her. To possess her, punish her, truly own her.
And he will, because Kasia is his to take.
189 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2020
1921 people are currently reading
2385 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 272 reviews
November 18, 2020
I found this to be a bit bland to be honest. I can't fault the prose, characters or pace but the plot was nothing new. It just didn't excite me because I feel as though I have read this story countless times before, some of them even by this author.
It's not bad but I also know it will soon be forgotten. And sadly it contained a trope that really annoys me. The *let's keep something secret, for your own sake, but actually really just so it can be used as a big plot twist *. Even worse was that the hero wanted to know every little detail about her, seemed to demand it, but didn't really pay the heroine the same courtesy.
This book, this time, just wasn't for me, but those who love the forced marriage trope or are new to it may well feel differently.
It's not bad but I also know it will soon be forgotten. And sadly it contained a trope that really annoys me. The *let's keep something secret, for your own sake, but actually really just so it can be used as a big plot twist *. Even worse was that the hero wanted to know every little detail about her, seemed to demand it, but didn't really pay the heroine the same courtesy.
This book, this time, just wasn't for me, but those who love the forced marriage trope or are new to it may well feel differently.
March 9, 2021
Okay.... I really really tried... but this story was not for me!! 😕 I've read more books written by Measha Stone, and some of them were phenomenal. 😍 That's why I had a hard time to believe and 'understand' why this particular book was such a huge disappointment for me? But it was!! 🥴 Bland, uninteresting, nothing new {13 in een dozijn}, unimaginative and predictable.
I would have finished it, because it's a Book of the Month... but when other participants felt the same and quit before finishing, I no longer felt 'guilty' to DNF. 😉
It was instantly forgettable and so very much like dozens of other mafia captive stories. It wasn't that the book itself was bad, just that I've read the story before."
Quickly forget about it & move on to the next book! 😁
★ ▬ ★ ▬ ★ ▬ ★
Note (09-03-2021): At first, the series was called Staszek Family on GR; when book #2 was released I found out the series is now called Mafia Brides.
★ ▬ ★ ▬ ★ ▬ ★
I would have finished it, because it's a Book of the Month... but when other participants felt the same and quit before finishing, I no longer felt 'guilty' to DNF. 😉
It was instantly forgettable and so very much like dozens of other mafia captive stories. It wasn't that the book itself was bad, just that I've read the story before."
Quickly forget about it & move on to the next book! 😁
★ ▬ ★ ▬ ★ ▬ ★
Note (09-03-2021): At first, the series was called Staszek Family on GR; when book #2 was released I found out the series is now called Mafia Brides.
★ ▬ ★ ▬ ★ ▬ ★
January 25, 2022
4.5 stars
Dark romsnce with a forced marriage between two crime families.
Kasia and Dominik are wed and Kasia is forced to abide by his rules which she hates doing so this complicates things for Kasia in a steamy way.
Losing her virginity was like baptism by fire.
Lots of angst, sarcasm and playful arguments make this a hot read.
I enjoyed it 🔥
Dark romsnce with a forced marriage between two crime families.
Kasia and Dominik are wed and Kasia is forced to abide by his rules which she hates doing so this complicates things for Kasia in a steamy way.
Losing her virginity was like baptism by fire.
Lots of angst, sarcasm and playful arguments make this a hot read.
I enjoyed it 🔥
December 16, 2020
STORY: ★★★★
PROOFREADING: ★★
OVERALL: ★★★
If you’ve read mafia or dark romance before, you won’t find anything innovative here. However, I really enjoyed this story even though there wasn’t anything unique or extraordinary about it. I just love the way Measha Stone writes! There’s something about her style that sucks me in and makes the characters feel real to me. Unfortunately, this book was harder to get through then her books usually are… I think she forgot to have this book proofread because it was inundated with mistake after mistake. Fortunately, I was able to ignore these mistakes, but be prepared! For details on the proofreading issues, continue reading below! Otherwise, this is where my review ends!!!
There were blatant mistakes like FEATHER instead of FATHER, THAT instead of WHO, INTO when it should have been IN TO, ONTO for ON TO, FURTHER for FARTHER, FIANCÉ instead of FIANCÉE, and MIGHT when it should’ve been MAY. There were sentences with missing words (for example, “it will so much worse than that”), sentences with incomplete or the incorrect/wrong word
(for example: “I raise my chin, fist my hands at my sides.”). There were sentences with extra
words (for example: “It’s tempting to her let her sleep away the afternoon and talk with her tomorrow.”) and many run-on sentences (for example, “He slides the head of his dick through my folds, there’s enough wetness to coat him.”) Worst of all was the punctuation. Pretty much every rule about commas was omitted, plus semicolons and ellipses were used incorrectly. There was even one sentence that ended without punctuation and a few with added spaces (for example: “stop .”). There were times when words were not capitalized that should’ve been and vice versa. There were even times when the same word was capitalized in some places yet not in others (for example Sir and sir). And finally, words were spelled differently. For example, bad ass was spelled two different ways within the same paragraph (spelled BADASS and BAD ASS).
PROOFREADING: ★★
OVERALL: ★★★
If you’ve read mafia or dark romance before, you won’t find anything innovative here. However, I really enjoyed this story even though there wasn’t anything unique or extraordinary about it. I just love the way Measha Stone writes! There’s something about her style that sucks me in and makes the characters feel real to me. Unfortunately, this book was harder to get through then her books usually are… I think she forgot to have this book proofread because it was inundated with mistake after mistake. Fortunately, I was able to ignore these mistakes, but be prepared! For details on the proofreading issues, continue reading below! Otherwise, this is where my review ends!!!
There were blatant mistakes like FEATHER instead of FATHER, THAT instead of WHO, INTO when it should have been IN TO, ONTO for ON TO, FURTHER for FARTHER, FIANCÉ instead of FIANCÉE, and MIGHT when it should’ve been MAY. There were sentences with missing words (for example, “it will so much worse than that”), sentences with incomplete or the incorrect/wrong word
(for example: “I raise my chin, fist my hands at my sides.”). There were sentences with extra
words (for example: “It’s tempting to her let her sleep away the afternoon and talk with her tomorrow.”) and many run-on sentences (for example, “He slides the head of his dick through my folds, there’s enough wetness to coat him.”) Worst of all was the punctuation. Pretty much every rule about commas was omitted, plus semicolons and ellipses were used incorrectly. There was even one sentence that ended without punctuation and a few with added spaces (for example: “stop .”). There were times when words were not capitalized that should’ve been and vice versa. There were even times when the same word was capitalized in some places yet not in others (for example Sir and sir). And finally, words were spelled differently. For example, bad ass was spelled two different ways within the same paragraph (spelled BADASS and BAD ASS).
November 11, 2020
I truly enjoyed this story of Dominik, the head of a Polish Mafia organization in the US & Kasia, his reluctant bride. Originally Dominik was contracted to marry Diana, Kasia's twin sister but Fate intervenes putting Kasia in the crosshairs as a sacrifice to ensure peace between two rival Polish Mafia factions.
But Kasia's father has ulterior & secret motives neither Dominik or Kasia are aware of & his motives are self-serving as well as sinister.
Although this one has a tried & true trope of a cold merciless Mafia anti-Hero & a bride coerced into marrying him, Ms. Stone's writing makes it well worth reading & she does a very masterful job of investing the reader in these two.
Dominik is powerful, huge, Dominant, focused on doing what needs to be done in order to bring his father home from exile in Poland. Dominik is no holds barred when it comes to respecting & obeying him & has no compunctions immediately punishing Kasia if she does not.
Kasia is a beautiful intelligent & strong-willed woman who survived the furnace of a mob father who loved her twin Diana but not Kasia. His methods of punishing Kasia while never physical were emotionally harsh & cruel. And now her father handed her over to a man she knows must be equally as cold & cruel . . . .
This is a wonderfully written story about finding romance with an unexpected person, of realizing the worth of a love, of finding yourself through another. There is delicious & explosive sizzle in the bedroom along with some corporal & sensual punishment as well as a deftly written journey to love that is subtle, sweet & touching as Dominik & Kasia slowly realize just how much they care for the other.
Ms. Stone knows exactly how to ramp up a reader's interest in her books & this one is no exception. The pacing, the plot, the characters are all masterfully done & the reader (IMO) will find themselves enchanted, enthralled & intrigued; will CARE about Dominik & Kasia, be intrigued by the plot & cross their fingers for the outcome of their relationship.
There's sizzle, angst, betrayal, secrets, love, suspense & danger, all of which are consummately balanced to keep the reader on delightful tenterhooks from the beginning to the end of the book.
For the reader who wants a wonderful & spicy romance with a touch of danger & suspense involving an anti-Hero who gives you delicious chills & a heroine who is his match, read this one.
I did & I loved it.
But Kasia's father has ulterior & secret motives neither Dominik or Kasia are aware of & his motives are self-serving as well as sinister.
Although this one has a tried & true trope of a cold merciless Mafia anti-Hero & a bride coerced into marrying him, Ms. Stone's writing makes it well worth reading & she does a very masterful job of investing the reader in these two.
Dominik is powerful, huge, Dominant, focused on doing what needs to be done in order to bring his father home from exile in Poland. Dominik is no holds barred when it comes to respecting & obeying him & has no compunctions immediately punishing Kasia if she does not.
Kasia is a beautiful intelligent & strong-willed woman who survived the furnace of a mob father who loved her twin Diana but not Kasia. His methods of punishing Kasia while never physical were emotionally harsh & cruel. And now her father handed her over to a man she knows must be equally as cold & cruel . . . .
This is a wonderfully written story about finding romance with an unexpected person, of realizing the worth of a love, of finding yourself through another. There is delicious & explosive sizzle in the bedroom along with some corporal & sensual punishment as well as a deftly written journey to love that is subtle, sweet & touching as Dominik & Kasia slowly realize just how much they care for the other.
Ms. Stone knows exactly how to ramp up a reader's interest in her books & this one is no exception. The pacing, the plot, the characters are all masterfully done & the reader (IMO) will find themselves enchanted, enthralled & intrigued; will CARE about Dominik & Kasia, be intrigued by the plot & cross their fingers for the outcome of their relationship.
There's sizzle, angst, betrayal, secrets, love, suspense & danger, all of which are consummately balanced to keep the reader on delightful tenterhooks from the beginning to the end of the book.
For the reader who wants a wonderful & spicy romance with a touch of danger & suspense involving an anti-Hero who gives you delicious chills & a heroine who is his match, read this one.
I did & I loved it.
July 29, 2022
Loved it. Great Story and Characters.
Great Story! I have become a fan of Mafia/organized crime romances. There's enough action, intrigue and danger to keep the story interesting and this one was no different.
Loved the heroine. Innocent, but not ignorant! Strong and smart. A loving, caring person, not afraid to stand up to anyone or fight for what she thinks is right; yet still has her vulnerabilites. She had a complicated relationship with her father resulting in a difficult childhood. Though never physically abused, she suffered emotional punishments, separated from things she loved. She learned from a young age that not only things, but people could be taken away from her so she learned to avoid emotional attachments.
The H is the anti-hero you love. Strong, masterful. Demanding obedience, respect and ready to met out punishment when he doesn't get it; yet also capable of such tenderness and caring. Second in command and in line to take control of the family empire when his father retires, he is currently running things in Chicago while his father is in Poland.
Their initial beginning is not a smooth one. Just when she's graduated college, believing she will finally be able to live her own life, free of her father, as he promised, she is instead told she is to fulfill the marriage contract, initially intended for her twin who died 4 years prior. Further, that she is to pack a bag immediately and go with her betrothed (the H) to his home until the wedding takes place. The H is smart and insightful. He watches her closely and, although she hides it quickly, catches the nuances in her facial expressions during her interactions with her father. He begins to realize there are undercurrents in their relationship that he'd previously been unaware of.
While the H navigates to get charges against his father dropped, he continues a secret investigation the h, now wife, had initiated into the car accident that killed her twin and Mom. In the process he discovers more about the h, the situation she came from and his respect for her increases. She begins to trust, and love eventually begins to grow. The transition is slow and believable.
For those who may be concerned about the discipline aspect, I will say it is not the main focus of the story and doesn't happen often. It was always deserved and she was given warnings before it was administered. She survives the first, a spanking, without a tear, only to struggle with the discovery that she was turned on by it...not just the pain, but his domination. The second, a belting, after she is caught snooping in his office for her father. He knows why but needs her to admit it. She continues to lie every time he asks even after being threatened with the belting, so...the belt she gets. Even then, with each strike he asks her again, promising to stop when she tells the truth. But instead of the belt breaking her, it sends her into subspace (if you've read bdsm, you know what that is). He realizes corporal punishment will not work on his girl as she gets off on pain. He takes care of her after and puts her to bed. There is one additional scene towards the end, but it is instigated by her because she's missed his dark, dominating side and she does enjoy the mix of pain and pleasure.
What I really loved about the domination/discipline aspect of this story is that the H didn't always resort to it for every little defiance or hesitation to obey him. (I hate stories where the H immediately resorts to corporal punishment when the female questions or asks the reason behind a command..the kind where women aren't allowed to think or have a mind.) This isn't one of those. This H can be, and is, more reasonable.
In the end, both were likeable characters with depth. The story was well wrttten (with only a couple typos or misused words) and intriguing. The author does a good job of making you feel their emotions and holding your interest through out.
Great Story! I have become a fan of Mafia/organized crime romances. There's enough action, intrigue and danger to keep the story interesting and this one was no different.
Loved the heroine. Innocent, but not ignorant! Strong and smart. A loving, caring person, not afraid to stand up to anyone or fight for what she thinks is right; yet still has her vulnerabilites. She had a complicated relationship with her father resulting in a difficult childhood. Though never physically abused, she suffered emotional punishments, separated from things she loved. She learned from a young age that not only things, but people could be taken away from her so she learned to avoid emotional attachments.
The H is the anti-hero you love. Strong, masterful. Demanding obedience, respect and ready to met out punishment when he doesn't get it; yet also capable of such tenderness and caring. Second in command and in line to take control of the family empire when his father retires, he is currently running things in Chicago while his father is in Poland.
Their initial beginning is not a smooth one. Just when she's graduated college, believing she will finally be able to live her own life, free of her father, as he promised, she is instead told she is to fulfill the marriage contract, initially intended for her twin who died 4 years prior. Further, that she is to pack a bag immediately and go with her betrothed (the H) to his home until the wedding takes place. The H is smart and insightful. He watches her closely and, although she hides it quickly, catches the nuances in her facial expressions during her interactions with her father. He begins to realize there are undercurrents in their relationship that he'd previously been unaware of.
While the H navigates to get charges against his father dropped, he continues a secret investigation the h, now wife, had initiated into the car accident that killed her twin and Mom. In the process he discovers more about the h, the situation she came from and his respect for her increases. She begins to trust, and love eventually begins to grow. The transition is slow and believable.
For those who may be concerned about the discipline aspect, I will say it is not the main focus of the story and doesn't happen often. It was always deserved and she was given warnings before it was administered. She survives the first, a spanking, without a tear, only to struggle with the discovery that she was turned on by it...not just the pain, but his domination. The second, a belting, after she is caught snooping in his office for her father. He knows why but needs her to admit it. She continues to lie every time he asks even after being threatened with the belting, so...the belt she gets. Even then, with each strike he asks her again, promising to stop when she tells the truth. But instead of the belt breaking her, it sends her into subspace (if you've read bdsm, you know what that is). He realizes corporal punishment will not work on his girl as she gets off on pain. He takes care of her after and puts her to bed. There is one additional scene towards the end, but it is instigated by her because she's missed his dark, dominating side and she does enjoy the mix of pain and pleasure.
What I really loved about the domination/discipline aspect of this story is that the H didn't always resort to it for every little defiance or hesitation to obey him. (I hate stories where the H immediately resorts to corporal punishment when the female questions or asks the reason behind a command..the kind where women aren't allowed to think or have a mind.) This isn't one of those. This H can be, and is, more reasonable.
In the end, both were likeable characters with depth. The story was well wrttten (with only a couple typos or misused words) and intriguing. The author does a good job of making you feel their emotions and holding your interest through out.
November 13, 2020
I received a copy of the book from the publisher/author to review.
This is the story of Kasia Marcin who is one of twin daughters to a mob father whose mom could not provide him the son he do desperately wanted. At sixteen Diane is offered up to Diminik Staszek to be his wife when she turns eighteen. However in a cruel twist of gate Diane never makes it yo the age and her sister Kasia now has to take her place even if she doesn't understand the reasons for the marriage at all. Now she's is swept away in a world of dominance and secrets and feelings she never expected to experience. However once she confronts the truth of the secrets of the past, can Dominik keep her save???
This book is an amazing read that will have you hooked from page one and left hanging on by you nails for dear life. This story is filled with drama, suspense and moments that just might light your Kindle on fire. I absolutely could not put it down. These are two characters your going to love and I love it when an author writes the man you absolutely bot love so well you fall right for him headfirst. This is a mafia book you don't want to miss and if you've never read a book by Meashea Stone this ones a great way to get introduced to her dark books that you're going to fall so hard for.
This is the story of Kasia Marcin who is one of twin daughters to a mob father whose mom could not provide him the son he do desperately wanted. At sixteen Diane is offered up to Diminik Staszek to be his wife when she turns eighteen. However in a cruel twist of gate Diane never makes it yo the age and her sister Kasia now has to take her place even if she doesn't understand the reasons for the marriage at all. Now she's is swept away in a world of dominance and secrets and feelings she never expected to experience. However once she confronts the truth of the secrets of the past, can Dominik keep her save???
This book is an amazing read that will have you hooked from page one and left hanging on by you nails for dear life. This story is filled with drama, suspense and moments that just might light your Kindle on fire. I absolutely could not put it down. These are two characters your going to love and I love it when an author writes the man you absolutely bot love so well you fall right for him headfirst. This is a mafia book you don't want to miss and if you've never read a book by Meashea Stone this ones a great way to get introduced to her dark books that you're going to fall so hard for.
April 29, 2022
Yessss. Just yes.
I really enjoyed this book, mafia romance at its best. An alpha hero, who knew how to tone it down a little for his woman. A heroine with a backbone, who knew how to be vulnerable when necessary. Awesome supporting characters, who added to the overall plot. Some seriously steamy erotic scenes. All of these combined to make a pretty great read.
It did have some shortcomings- a lack of proper world-building, and I would have loved some more background on the protagonists, but it was a short book, so I knew going into it that it wouldn't have been perfect. Still recommend this to all my fellow erotic trope lovers.
I really enjoyed this book, mafia romance at its best. An alpha hero, who knew how to tone it down a little for his woman. A heroine with a backbone, who knew how to be vulnerable when necessary. Awesome supporting characters, who added to the overall plot. Some seriously steamy erotic scenes. All of these combined to make a pretty great read.
It did have some shortcomings- a lack of proper world-building, and I would have loved some more background on the protagonists, but it was a short book, so I knew going into it that it wouldn't have been perfect. Still recommend this to all my fellow erotic trope lovers.
November 11, 2020
Okay, so first I need to hold my hands up and say, I am NOT a mafia romance kinda girl. I've read maybe half a dozen, a few more, that I've liked, but the genre just doesn't do anything for me in general. The few authors and books I have read, have been exemplary.
Taken By Him ticked all the boxes for me - to the point where I'm hoping there's going to be more from this family.
Good, explicit sex scenes that fit the characters; chemistry to knock socks off; and the all important story line to keep a reader engaged. Well, I can say I was definitely engaged. I read this in under three hours; the pages just kept turning along with the drama.
A thoroughly enjoyable story, and I hope the author is planning on expanding this world.
Taken By Him ticked all the boxes for me - to the point where I'm hoping there's going to be more from this family.
Good, explicit sex scenes that fit the characters; chemistry to knock socks off; and the all important story line to keep a reader engaged. Well, I can say I was definitely engaged. I read this in under three hours; the pages just kept turning along with the drama.
A thoroughly enjoyable story, and I hope the author is planning on expanding this world.
February 27, 2024
Çok sıkıcıydı, hiç mafya kitabı gibi değildi. Kadın karakterin son 20 sayfa güçlendim tribine girip insanların canını tehlikeye atması.... Ablam güçlenmenin bir yeri zamanı vardır ya neyse sadece smut vardı içinde. Birbirlerine aşık bile olmadılar anlamadım.
August 30, 2024
3.75 ⭐️
June 6, 2021
Taken By Him by Measha Stone us book 1 in the Mafia Brides series.
This is a sad and heartbreaking read whilst being extremely frustrating and addictive.
An arranged marriage, a despicable father, a horrendous accident covered by a secret cloud and an unlikely hero is the basic ingredients for this story.
I definitely recommend this 📖
This is a sad and heartbreaking read whilst being extremely frustrating and addictive.
An arranged marriage, a despicable father, a horrendous accident covered by a secret cloud and an unlikely hero is the basic ingredients for this story.
I definitely recommend this 📖
November 12, 2020
Kasia and Dominik are forced to marry when their Polish-American mob families seek an alliance. While the two soon find themselves attracted to each other, will Kasia's troubled past and Dominik's secretive present prevent them from forming a deeper relationship? While this is a standalone in terms of the couple, it is the start of a series about this particular family and, thus, ends with a hook that the second book will no doubt begin on.
I enjoyed this book and recommend it highly with the caveat that it's actually not that well-written. Usually this bothers me, but I found the characters so likeable and the relationship so refreshing that, ultimately, I was won over. The story will particularly appeal to those who like mild BDSM kinks, such currently popular tropes as Forced Marriage and Enemies to Lovers, and such currently popular characters as Eastern European mobsters. (Side Note: I'm curious as to why Eastern Europe is the new "sexy" right now?) Using my understanding of the hopelessly vague "dark," I didn't find it particularly so: Dominik never harms Kasia physically or emotionally; he doesn't rape her; and he genuinely cares how she feels. Since I'm not a fan of "dark," this was a relief; others might prefer "darker."
I really liked Kasia and Dominik -- separately and together -- for two reasons. First, Dominik (and, by extension, the narrative) never "punishes" Kasia because he feels that she "deserves" it. Since I've read a lot of misogynistic BDSM books lately that paint the MFC as bad or bratty, I was particularly grateful for this. Second, I often find myself rolling my eyes over Forced Marriage plots because Betraying Body Syndrome kicks in even though the H threatens to kill the h's (pet, sibling, best friend) or he (locks her in a cage, whips her, or terrifies her). Here, Dominik's relatively benign treatment of Kasia means that I actually believed the sexual attraction between them, and while Dominik never explicitly gets her consent, I felt that he would have stopped if she wasn't into it since he never wanted an unwilling partner. I also appreciated Kasia's strength and determination (particularly ) and that Dominik appreciated it. Many of these BDSM-cum-mafia/bratva/mob/gangster/cartel (have I missed one?) books feature female characters with little agency. This was not the case here.
That said, this book was filled with plot holes and loose ends. We never find out, for example, why Kasia's mother ; the father's motivation ; I never understood why Kasia and Dominik's families wanted them to marry; details are missing or vague (Kasia doesn't seem at all concerned about getting pregnant, for example, and I can't tell you what any location looks like); and some of the word choices were incorrect and distracting ("She had touted to"). Finally, almost all the tension between the MC could have been avoided if Dominik had just talked to her: I never understood why he didn't and he had no right to withhold pertinent information from her. Most of these mafia/bratva/mob/gangster/cartel narratives depend on unnecessary secrecy and this gets old after a while -- as does the H's constant insistence that the h reveal her very soul to him even though he's given her no reason to. Thank god Dominik gives Kasia one pretty quickly.
4 stars. Because everyone should find a partner who says this: ".” That said: please, Ms. Stone, do hire an editor!
I enjoyed this book and recommend it highly with the caveat that it's actually not that well-written. Usually this bothers me, but I found the characters so likeable and the relationship so refreshing that, ultimately, I was won over. The story will particularly appeal to those who like mild BDSM kinks, such currently popular tropes as Forced Marriage and Enemies to Lovers, and such currently popular characters as Eastern European mobsters. (Side Note: I'm curious as to why Eastern Europe is the new "sexy" right now?) Using my understanding of the hopelessly vague "dark," I didn't find it particularly so: Dominik never harms Kasia physically or emotionally; he doesn't rape her; and he genuinely cares how she feels. Since I'm not a fan of "dark," this was a relief; others might prefer "darker."
I really liked Kasia and Dominik -- separately and together -- for two reasons. First, Dominik (and, by extension, the narrative) never "punishes" Kasia because he feels that she "deserves" it. Since I've read a lot of misogynistic BDSM books lately that paint the MFC as bad or bratty, I was particularly grateful for this. Second, I often find myself rolling my eyes over Forced Marriage plots because Betraying Body Syndrome kicks in even though the H threatens to kill the h's (pet, sibling, best friend) or he (locks her in a cage, whips her, or terrifies her). Here, Dominik's relatively benign treatment of Kasia means that I actually believed the sexual attraction between them, and while Dominik never explicitly gets her consent, I felt that he would have stopped if she wasn't into it since he never wanted an unwilling partner. I also appreciated Kasia's strength and determination (particularly ) and that Dominik appreciated it. Many of these BDSM-cum-mafia/bratva/mob/gangster/cartel (have I missed one?) books feature female characters with little agency. This was not the case here.
That said, this book was filled with plot holes and loose ends. We never find out, for example, why Kasia's mother ; the father's motivation ; I never understood why Kasia and Dominik's families wanted them to marry; details are missing or vague (Kasia doesn't seem at all concerned about getting pregnant, for example, and I can't tell you what any location looks like); and some of the word choices were incorrect and distracting ("She had touted to"). Finally, almost all the tension between the MC could have been avoided if Dominik had just talked to her: I never understood why he didn't and he had no right to withhold pertinent information from her. Most of these mafia/bratva/mob/gangster/cartel narratives depend on unnecessary secrecy and this gets old after a while -- as does the H's constant insistence that the h reveal her very soul to him even though he's given her no reason to. Thank god Dominik gives Kasia one pretty quickly.
4 stars. Because everyone should find a partner who says this: ".” That said: please, Ms. Stone, do hire an editor!
November 8, 2020
Marcin, Kasia and twin sister Diana's father has a
marriage contract with Dominik Staszek for Diana
to marry Dominik when she's of age. When Dominik
comes to claim his bride, Diana had been killed in an
auto accident, so he claims Kasia. Dominik is a dominant
force and takes, "what's his" aka Kasia. He's bossy and
possessive, but knows his way around her body and mind.
There are some steaming hot scenes between the two and
although Dominik seems like the bad guy, he has some very
good reasons for acting the way he does and he does care for
Kasia, in his own way.
I just want to know, where is Lena?
Read the book, you will enjoy it, I promise.
marriage contract with Dominik Staszek for Diana
to marry Dominik when she's of age. When Dominik
comes to claim his bride, Diana had been killed in an
auto accident, so he claims Kasia. Dominik is a dominant
force and takes, "what's his" aka Kasia. He's bossy and
possessive, but knows his way around her body and mind.
There are some steaming hot scenes between the two and
although Dominik seems like the bad guy, he has some very
good reasons for acting the way he does and he does care for
Kasia, in his own way.
I just want to know, where is Lena?
Read the book, you will enjoy it, I promise.
January 19, 2021
I have never read a book about the Polish mafia; so I was excited about something new. Learning a new language, culture, practices. The list goes on.
Unfortunately, this story went downhill after chapter one and it didn't stop there.
Kasia is a strong-minded, independent and fierce woman who doesn't care what anyone, but her father apparently, thinks about her. However, that girl lasted a total of two chapters and then she was like a ghost floating around the pages.
Kind of like her relationship with Dominik.
As for Dominik, the man needs an identity. Who is he? What are his goals? What is he hoping to accomplish within this relationship and the Polish mob?
I still don't understand his motives or how the information he received brought him the outcome he expected, when he didn't even know that this was an angle to pursue. What's even more bonkers is why it would impact a group of hardened criminals and a somewhat reputable police organization.
The point, I so lengthily took to make, is that the man seems to be everything and nothing at the same time. Just like this story.
Now, I felt as though the author wasn't certain if she wanted to write a mob romance or erotica, so she went with both. Which is not a problem but I understood their BDSM gymnastics more than I did their storyline.
With only more questions popping up at the end, I was left wanting with so many things of the past, that not even the shit show brewing, could distract me from. Like, the fact that we never got the opportunity to see this relationship grow or to understand the circumstances that led to Dominik needing to use Kasia as collateral.
Now, don't get me wrong, the characters aren't so bad. Their personalities are solid and when written well, they can make for good scenes, unfortunately, it just wasn't enough for me to care enough to continue with this series.
Unfortunately, this story went downhill after chapter one and it didn't stop there.
Kasia is a strong-minded, independent and fierce woman who doesn't care what anyone, but her father apparently, thinks about her. However, that girl lasted a total of two chapters and then she was like a ghost floating around the pages.
Kind of like her relationship with Dominik.
As for Dominik, the man needs an identity. Who is he? What are his goals? What is he hoping to accomplish within this relationship and the Polish mob?
I still don't understand his motives or how the information he received brought him the outcome he expected, when he didn't even know that this was an angle to pursue. What's even more bonkers is why it would impact a group of hardened criminals and a somewhat reputable police organization.
The point, I so lengthily took to make, is that the man seems to be everything and nothing at the same time. Just like this story.
Now, I felt as though the author wasn't certain if she wanted to write a mob romance or erotica, so she went with both. Which is not a problem but I understood their BDSM gymnastics more than I did their storyline.
With only more questions popping up at the end, I was left wanting with so many things of the past, that not even the shit show brewing, could distract me from. Like, the fact that we never got the opportunity to see this relationship grow or to understand the circumstances that led to Dominik needing to use Kasia as collateral.
Now, don't get me wrong, the characters aren't so bad. Their personalities are solid and when written well, they can make for good scenes, unfortunately, it just wasn't enough for me to care enough to continue with this series.
December 13, 2020
I'm not sure how I feel about this book. This was listed as a dark romance and I don't think this was really dark. I guess that can be relative, but it was more BDSM focused than anything. I realize the families are mafia, but that seemed to be in the background. The main focus was Dominik and Kasia. Not so much mafia-related, but it felt disconnected at times. For example, why did Kasia's mom say she was sorry? Why did Dominik come back for Kasia so many years later?
Overall, it wasn't a bad book. It was definitely a much lighter book from what I'm used to in the mafia and dark romance category.
Overall, it wasn't a bad book. It was definitely a much lighter book from what I'm used to in the mafia and dark romance category.
November 8, 2020
I love a good mafia story and Measha Stone has given her readers a gem. It's intense, dramatic and will keep you on the edge of your seat. Kasia has had a rough life but she's not your "normal" mafia princess. She's strong and determined to make something of herself. Even if it means marrying Dominik. It took me a bit to warm up to him but when I did, I was all in with him! He's dominant, demanding, but you can tell he's falling for Kasia. The story took me on a wild ride and I can't wait to take another ride with the next book!!
November 8, 2020
What a simply spectacular read, truly spectacular
Kasia and Diana Marcin are twin sisters and even though they are identical Kasia is more than aware that her father despises her and she knows that this because she was the second born twin and her mother had been left unable to provide the much-wanted son.
At sixteen Diana had been offered up to Diminik Staszek as his wife when she had reached .the age to marry and even though she had not wanted this it has been Kasia that had signed the paperwork on her behalf, she had not expected Dominik to notice the swop only her father but she had been wrong he had instantly known who she was and they had spoken
Five years later and Dominik is back in her father’s house and he gives her away as though she is a piece of unwanted trash, Dominik is only going through the motions but he cannot help be have feelings for the woman that girl has now become.
She is fierce and brace and he can sense the disinterest of her father, they all know he is a criminal and the lowest of the low he will do anything to make money, he believes he is responsible for his father’s problems and is trying to find the evidence that proves him innocent.
Kasia has never believed the accident that killed her sister and mother was an accident and has been investigating the evidence, however it is true what they say “Sometimes the truth is more damning that you could ever have imagined” and Kasia is totally bereft.
Unfortunately, she is no shrinking violet and decides to take matters into her own hands, she is like an avenging angel and no Dominik can only hope he reaches his wife in time!!!
I cannot wait to read the next book in this series, I just know that it will be equally as stunning and will have to be read in one sitting, another very late night but oh so worth every single page!!!
I voluntarily received and review an Advanced Reader Copy
I thoroughly enjoyed the book and look forward to reading any future publications; keep up all the great writing.
Kasia and Diana Marcin are twin sisters and even though they are identical Kasia is more than aware that her father despises her and she knows that this because she was the second born twin and her mother had been left unable to provide the much-wanted son.
At sixteen Diana had been offered up to Diminik Staszek as his wife when she had reached .the age to marry and even though she had not wanted this it has been Kasia that had signed the paperwork on her behalf, she had not expected Dominik to notice the swop only her father but she had been wrong he had instantly known who she was and they had spoken
Five years later and Dominik is back in her father’s house and he gives her away as though she is a piece of unwanted trash, Dominik is only going through the motions but he cannot help be have feelings for the woman that girl has now become.
She is fierce and brace and he can sense the disinterest of her father, they all know he is a criminal and the lowest of the low he will do anything to make money, he believes he is responsible for his father’s problems and is trying to find the evidence that proves him innocent.
Kasia has never believed the accident that killed her sister and mother was an accident and has been investigating the evidence, however it is true what they say “Sometimes the truth is more damning that you could ever have imagined” and Kasia is totally bereft.
Unfortunately, she is no shrinking violet and decides to take matters into her own hands, she is like an avenging angel and no Dominik can only hope he reaches his wife in time!!!
I cannot wait to read the next book in this series, I just know that it will be equally as stunning and will have to be read in one sitting, another very late night but oh so worth every single page!!!
I voluntarily received and review an Advanced Reader Copy
I thoroughly enjoyed the book and look forward to reading any future publications; keep up all the great writing.
November 10, 2020
Will they trust each other enough to keep her safe and loved?
Taken By Him is a Polish Mafia dark romance that is the first in the Staszek Family series. Dominik and Diana had an arranged marriage planned, but when she unexpectedly died, Kasia must take her sister’s place. Not understanding the reasons behind the marriage, Kasia is swept away the dominance and feelings Dominik unleashes, but when she confronts the truth behind secrets of her past, can Dominik keep her safe?
Goodness, I got completely swept away by this romance and I’m pretty sure my heart is still pounding from this book! Wow! I absolutely loved reading this book, loved all of the drama and suspense, the chemistry and connection between Kasia and Dominik, and literally could not put this book down once I started! Kasia is such an intriguing mix between being so strong because she needs to be, with being sweet and caring and so hurt from her past. While she dreams of freedom, she’s realistic about the life she’s been handed, but I loved how she slowly opened up to Dominik. She was smart, but definitely had a vulnerable side that left her an endearing character. Dominik makes no pretenses as to who he is or what he demands and that was refreshing. He’s not a good man, but he tries hard to right wrongs placed against those he loves. He’s a hard worker, dedicated to his family, and passionate about his new wife. Dominant and craving respect, he makes a great match for Kasia. I loved their scenes together (so wicked and hot), and I loved how they slowly trusted and built up each other. The drama in this book had me just as hooked as the romance, too, so I was on the edge of my seat! I loved this book and highly recommend it to other mafia romance lovers!
Taken By Him is a Polish Mafia dark romance that is the first in the Staszek Family series. Dominik and Diana had an arranged marriage planned, but when she unexpectedly died, Kasia must take her sister’s place. Not understanding the reasons behind the marriage, Kasia is swept away the dominance and feelings Dominik unleashes, but when she confronts the truth behind secrets of her past, can Dominik keep her safe?
Goodness, I got completely swept away by this romance and I’m pretty sure my heart is still pounding from this book! Wow! I absolutely loved reading this book, loved all of the drama and suspense, the chemistry and connection between Kasia and Dominik, and literally could not put this book down once I started! Kasia is such an intriguing mix between being so strong because she needs to be, with being sweet and caring and so hurt from her past. While she dreams of freedom, she’s realistic about the life she’s been handed, but I loved how she slowly opened up to Dominik. She was smart, but definitely had a vulnerable side that left her an endearing character. Dominik makes no pretenses as to who he is or what he demands and that was refreshing. He’s not a good man, but he tries hard to right wrongs placed against those he loves. He’s a hard worker, dedicated to his family, and passionate about his new wife. Dominant and craving respect, he makes a great match for Kasia. I loved their scenes together (so wicked and hot), and I loved how they slowly trusted and built up each other. The drama in this book had me just as hooked as the romance, too, so I was on the edge of my seat! I loved this book and highly recommend it to other mafia romance lovers!
November 14, 2020
Measha Stone is back with an intense story that left me not 100% sure about what was going to happen until right until it happened.
Dominik is a very interesting character. Sometimes I think that he's a complete ash-hole with no redeeming qualities at all, and other times I think that he's an ash-hole with some redeeming qualities. I think that he might actually be both, if that makes any sense. He does really care about his family, and wants to do the best for them.
I felt sorry for Kasia. Her dad was just such a douche, and she always knew that he didn't love her. And that's a hard place to be. I think that she is really strong and is very realistic. She knows how her world works, and handles it, mostly. There is one place where she has a blind spot, but I don't think that's not because she's realistic, but is more that she really wanted it to be true.
Dominik is a very interesting character. Sometimes I think that he's a complete ash-hole with no redeeming qualities at all, and other times I think that he's an ash-hole with some redeeming qualities. I think that he might actually be both, if that makes any sense. He does really care about his family, and wants to do the best for them.
I felt sorry for Kasia. Her dad was just such a douche, and she always knew that he didn't love her. And that's a hard place to be. I think that she is really strong and is very realistic. She knows how her world works, and handles it, mostly. There is one place where she has a blind spot, but I don't think that's not because she's realistic, but is more that she really wanted it to be true.
December 26, 2020
* Ku Read
I was scoping out KU and saw this book from Measha. As I am a big fan of hers I jumped at the chance to read this story.
Measha strings a strong dark mafia story together that you just can't put down. Taken by Him is a great beginning to a series. Dominick is a dynamic and over the top alpha, he knows what he wants and what has to be done to keep the family business going.
Kasia is now being married off to Dominick to get rid of a family obligation and isn't too happy about it. To Kasia, Dominick is the devil and there is no way her life can get any worse by marrying him. All Kasia wants is to get away from her family and start teaching, now she is in an arranged marriage and hoping to make it out alive.
I am so excited to see what happens next.
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I was scoping out KU and saw this book from Measha. As I am a big fan of hers I jumped at the chance to read this story.
Measha strings a strong dark mafia story together that you just can't put down. Taken by Him is a great beginning to a series. Dominick is a dynamic and over the top alpha, he knows what he wants and what has to be done to keep the family business going.
Kasia is now being married off to Dominick to get rid of a family obligation and isn't too happy about it. To Kasia, Dominick is the devil and there is no way her life can get any worse by marrying him. All Kasia wants is to get away from her family and start teaching, now she is in an arranged marriage and hoping to make it out alive.
I am so excited to see what happens next.
Blog: http://myfantasylandblog.com/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/fantasylandblog
Twitter: https://twitter.com/fantasylandblog
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fantasyland...
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/27664...
March 11, 2021
3.5 stars
This was a new to me author, and I really enjoyed the book. I am a sucker for mafia and arranged marriage, and this one didn't disappoint on that front. It was a little different than most because the arranged marriage was supposed to be with the sister, and another difference was that the H was very attentive to the h, tried to make the best of their marriage. I am used to both parties fighting the union, so this was a nice change. I am enjoying this world, and would be interested in reading about the other siblings, as it seems like we were set up for their stories.
This was a new to me author, and I really enjoyed the book. I am a sucker for mafia and arranged marriage, and this one didn't disappoint on that front. It was a little different than most because the arranged marriage was supposed to be with the sister, and another difference was that the H was very attentive to the h, tried to make the best of their marriage. I am used to both parties fighting the union, so this was a nice change. I am enjoying this world, and would be interested in reading about the other siblings, as it seems like we were set up for their stories.
November 19, 2023
It's good, I've enjoyed this one. It isn't dark in my opinion, just an okay read.
January 3, 2021
Really enjoyed this one. It was quick..sexy..
instalove-ish with a hot Polish gangster which is pretty new to me...never read one of those before.
instalove-ish with a hot Polish gangster which is pretty new to me...never read one of those before.
October 31, 2020
Dominik is my childhood dream of a Mafia man come to life. He's dark, brooding, secretive, domineering, and dangerous. Kasia is also what I always pictured a Mafia princess of being, minus the pampered, selfish part. She's trying to fight her way through life, and life just keeps trying to smother her. Even knowing that Dominik would end their battle for control in the end didn't take away the joy of watching Kasia stand up to him.
Like I expect from this author, the story is fast-paced and exciting, the characters are interesting and well developed, and the steamy scenes have the perfect amount of heat. This one also ends with a lead in to the next story that has me anxiously counting down the days for the next book.
Like I expect from this author, the story is fast-paced and exciting, the characters are interesting and well developed, and the steamy scenes have the perfect amount of heat. This one also ends with a lead in to the next story that has me anxiously counting down the days for the next book.
November 12, 2020
My favorite Measha Stone book hands down! Kasia and Diana are identical twins and when they are still teenagers, their father promises Diana to Dominik Staszek in marriage when she becomes of age. Because Diana is so upset about this, Kasia goes to sign the marriage contract. Dominik knows this isn't Diana, but appreciates her bravery, knowing her father is aware that Diana isn't the twin signing and there will be repercussions. Years later, Kasia has graduated from college, her twin and her mother were killed in an auto accident, and she thinks her life away from her father is just beginning. But Dominik shows up and wants his bride. This story has heartbreak, dark twists, cruel turns, and through it all Dominik fights to protect Kasia from the dark forces around them. This book has great pace, really steamy scenes, and some shocking surprises and through it all these two survive and grow. Fingers crossed, this is just the start of the Staszek family saga. Great Read
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 10, 2021
Pretty basic and low-angst mafia arranged marriage. I like a bit of friction and misunderstanding in this trope. I like the characters to grow into and develop their new relationship. But none of that really happened. They were married within a couple of days. They had good sex. Got on relatively well. Killed someone together. Then lived HEA. There wasn’t even trouble at the club. Everyone knows that when the mafia go to a club that there is OM or OW drama. Always. Or at least someone trying to roofie our girl. But nope. They went in that club, he had a
Business Meeting while she had a glass of wine and then they had a nice car journey home.
Also I really didn’t care about her mother and sister. They were surplus characters as far as I was concerned. And we didn’t even meet her mum. Like she was a non-speaking unnamed extra in a movie.
Our mafia boss didn’t even torture anyone. I mean, the only blood we saw on him was from her broken hymen.
This was a mafia book without all the best bits of a mafia book. Weird.
I must be in the minority because this is sooooo highly rated. Gah! Just me then!
Business Meeting while she had a glass of wine and then they had a nice car journey home.
Also I really didn’t care about her mother and sister. They were surplus characters as far as I was concerned. And we didn’t even meet her mum. Like she was a non-speaking unnamed extra in a movie.
Our mafia boss didn’t even torture anyone. I mean, the only blood we saw on him was from her broken hymen.
This was a mafia book without all the best bits of a mafia book. Weird.
I must be in the minority because this is sooooo highly rated. Gah! Just me then!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 9, 2020
Kasia and Diana are identical twins. Diana is older by a few minutes, so it is her name on the marriage contract with Dominik Staszek. The girls do not know why this marriage is being forced upon Diana, but it is! Her groom is willing to wait until she completes high school. Because of a lethal accident, Dominik is forced to switch twins. He waits until Kasia completes college, but at that point, Kasia’s father forces her to take her precious sister, Diana’s, place in the marriage. The interaction between a strong, sassy, independent Kasia and a controlling, dominant, alpha Dominik is totally enthralling.
This is a sensuous, erotic and tumultuous story that urged me to continue reading until the very end. Will Kasia agree to this marriage? Is there anything she can do to prevent it? How will Dominik respond to a totally different wife? If the marriage takes place, how will they each react to the union?
This is a sensuous, erotic and tumultuous story that urged me to continue reading until the very end. Will Kasia agree to this marriage? Is there anything she can do to prevent it? How will Dominik respond to a totally different wife? If the marriage takes place, how will they each react to the union?
January 12, 2021
Light Dark Romance
It was a decent book and good story. It was well written, but had a few grammar errors. The issue here is not that this story has been written in many different versions by different authors: bad boy mafia family guy takes girl from father as per a signed contract, it is that the author should have committed to follow through on the characters attitude. I am not a fan of zigzag behavior, one day the h is being fierce, strong and determined and the next she is a weak, shy and easily to manipulate girl. Anyhow, good read to pass the time, but it could have much better.
It was a decent book and good story. It was well written, but had a few grammar errors. The issue here is not that this story has been written in many different versions by different authors: bad boy mafia family guy takes girl from father as per a signed contract, it is that the author should have committed to follow through on the characters attitude. I am not a fan of zigzag behavior, one day the h is being fierce, strong and determined and the next she is a weak, shy and easily to manipulate girl. Anyhow, good read to pass the time, but it could have much better.
January 14, 2021
Wow. What a wild ride. Kasia is unloved by her father. After her mother and twin sister were killed in car accident, her father blamed Kasia. Her father arranged for her to marry Dominik since it was to be her sister to marry him. Now you will have to read this excellent book to see how all this unfolds and it is an emotional exciting trip. Enjoy
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