A review by stucknbooks14
Nikolai by Roxie Rivera

4.0

Nikolai wondered what was more dangerous to him. Was it the very real possibility of trouble with the Calaveras motorcycle gang and the Guzman Cartel or Vivian living in his home and sleeping across the hall from him? He’d put his money on Vivian.

Nikolai was right, he could have made a pretty penny (not that he needs it) betting on Vivian. I’ve done it again. I’ve fallen in love with a fictional powerful Russian man covered in tattoos with a dirty mouth. This is not just about an innocent girl falling for a mobster. No honey, this has more family drama than a damn soap opera! And because the Russian mafia is involved, it is not meant for daytime television! I was actually surprised when we got Nikolai’s POV, but it quickly became my favorite view. For a big man full of anger and fury, he sure was such a softy. Only with Vivian of course. I’ve read enough mafia books to know that tattoos tell a lot about a man and his organized crime associations. Surely a woman nose deep in it would know that too? Why in the world would she think a tattoo exhibit would be a good idea? I found myself taking Nikolai’s side a lot when it came to her naivety. (How was she so naive?!) When the truth came out, my heart ripped in two. Maybe one of the most gut wrenching moments I’ve read in a mafia book was Nikolai’s I’m sorry. Their communication is unmatched. I never had to stress over avoidable miscommunication. How refreshing is that?! Nikolai made sure Vee understood that she could always talk to him, that she never had to be afraid. It wasn’t bravery that had her standing up to him. It was love and understanding. Nikolai always loved her tender. No one supported her or believed in her more than him. And he showed it time and time again. He was vulnerable with her. He never held back, he felt safe with her by his side. Nikolai deserves a life with Vee in an apron scrambling eggs, without crime scenes and missing persons.

My Favorite Quotes:
•”Nothing will ever keep me away from you.”
•”I started to crave you. I need you. The thought of being separated from you makes my heart bleed.”
•”You can’t be a monster because I love you.”
•”You fit right here.”
•”Such a dirty word from such a pretty mouth.”
•”I shouldn’t feel so possessive of you but you’re so precious to me.”
•”You’re beautiful every day, but today you are exceptionally perfect.”
•”If you can’t tell me, then show me. Let me see your face.”
•”We’ll figure it out...together. You and me, Vee. Forever.”
•”I don’t need a fairy tale. I only need you.”

6/10 Dirty Birdy
6/10 Forbidden Love
9/10 Mafia
8/10 Secret Identity
6/10 Slow Burn