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St. Vasili's Academy #1
The Pretty Savage
She was supposed to destroy him, but he destroyed her instead.
VEGA
A shadow.
A nobody.
That’s what I was most of my life.
It was supposed to be my last mission.
The last payment for my debt.
But I never expected him.
Adrian Zylla started as a pawn.
Just another faceless man I was supposed to destroy.
I was an assassin, a professional killer, with no time for emotions.
But all it took was one look, one touch, for my entire world to shatter.
I just never thought he would steal my heart and destroy everything I was.
And now he wouldn’t let me go.
ADRIAN
A monster.
A soldier.
That’s what I was most of my life.
I've patiently counted the days, biding my time for the
sweet taste of revenge, ready to claim my rightful place at the throne.
But I never expected her.
Vega Konstantinova made me feel.
And I despised every aspect of her presence.
She wasn’t a part of my plan, not even close.
But all it took was one look, one touch, for the walls around my heart to shatter.
She wanted me to let her go, but she should’ve known better.
She has awakened the beast, and now—Vega Konstantinova was mine.
THE PRETTY SAVAGE is a Book 1 in Dark Enemies-to-Lovers Romance Duet St. Vasili's Academy with Mafia elements. This book ends on a cliffhanger with the final book ending up with a guaranteed HEA. The full list of triggers can be found inside the book as it is intended for mature audiences.
VEGA
A shadow.
A nobody.
That’s what I was most of my life.
It was supposed to be my last mission.
The last payment for my debt.
But I never expected him.
Adrian Zylla started as a pawn.
Just another faceless man I was supposed to destroy.
I was an assassin, a professional killer, with no time for emotions.
But all it took was one look, one touch, for my entire world to shatter.
I just never thought he would steal my heart and destroy everything I was.
And now he wouldn’t let me go.
ADRIAN
A monster.
A soldier.
That’s what I was most of my life.
I've patiently counted the days, biding my time for the
sweet taste of revenge, ready to claim my rightful place at the throne.
But I never expected her.
Vega Konstantinova made me feel.
And I despised every aspect of her presence.
She wasn’t a part of my plan, not even close.
But all it took was one look, one touch, for the walls around my heart to shatter.
She wanted me to let her go, but she should’ve known better.
She has awakened the beast, and now—Vega Konstantinova was mine.
THE PRETTY SAVAGE is a Book 1 in Dark Enemies-to-Lovers Romance Duet St. Vasili's Academy with Mafia elements. This book ends on a cliffhanger with the final book ending up with a guaranteed HEA. The full list of triggers can be found inside the book as it is intended for mature audiences.
367 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 19, 2024
About the author
L.K. Reid
19 books619 followersL.K. Reid is a dark romance author who hates slow walkers and people being mean for no reason. She lives with her two cats, Freya and Athena, and she’s still figuring out the whole “adult” thingy.
In her opinion, Halloween should be a public holiday, and she also has a small obsession with all things historical—especially Greek mythology. During high school, she wanted to be an archaeologist, and ended up studying law, but obviously neither one of those professions worked out.
If she isn’t writing, she’s most probably watching horror movies, listening to music, reading, or plotting upcoming books.
Find her on other social media:
Facebook: https://bit.ly/3hIWR4w
Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/3luuARa
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorlkreid
In her opinion, Halloween should be a public holiday, and she also has a small obsession with all things historical—especially Greek mythology. During high school, she wanted to be an archaeologist, and ended up studying law, but obviously neither one of those professions worked out.
If she isn’t writing, she’s most probably watching horror movies, listening to music, reading, or plotting upcoming books.
Find her on other social media:
Facebook: https://bit.ly/3hIWR4w
Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/3luuARa
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorlkreid
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February 8, 2024
MY REVIEW AND OTHERS can also be found on my blog: ╰┈➤KITTY KATS CRAZY ABOUT BOOKS
❀ '𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐏𝐑𝐄𝐓𝐓𝐘 𝐒𝐀𝐕𝐀𝐆𝐄' ❀ Is the first full length enemies to lovers romance book within the (St. Vasili's Academy) series by author L.K. Reid. Spoken in 'dual perspectives. ❥ Vega & Adrian ❥
So being in a bit of a reading slump I decided to jump into this one even knowing the next book wouldn't be out until September didn't deter me, and even though it did take me a wee bit to get into it definitely got me out of that slump I was in.
All us readers love us a strong heroine and Vega was just that, a trained mercenary from a very young age, plucked up from an orphanage and initiated to become a killing machine by the Schatten.
You couldn't help but feel sad for the life which was stolen from her, she was just a girl who had no future, once in the Schatten there was no out, only death. And getting out was what she craved most in the world. To be just a girl for once in her life..
She's then sent onto a mission at St. Vasili's academy to garner as much information as she can about
Adrian Zylla and then take him out. She's only to happy to comply because this is the last place she lost one of her closest friends, one day he was at the academy the next she'd been told he was dead. Now she's got the perfect opportunity to dig deeper.
But nothing at this academy is what she expected, she thought she'd go in get the job done, find out what happened to her friend who was like a brother to her, and get out, but what she didn't expect was to fall for her target and to make an unexpected friend at the academy who she would protect with her life.
Adrian Zylla is next on the throne under his father, a father he wants to eliminate and to run things his way. But to do that he has to gather an army.
The moment he clapped eyes on Vega the attraction was palpable which unnerved him, in his life you couldn't afford to form any attachments. But everytime he was near her he felt calmer, all the demons inside rested.
But things aren't what they seem at the academy, there are deep dark secrets shrouded within, there's a group forming called 'The brotherhood' there's a killer on campus leaving a calling card that points towards Vega, there's a fighting pit where if your name is called out you fight the other with all you've got.
And of course this one had to end on a major cliffhanger!!
* Teaser used is off the authors facebook page *
January 31, 2024
This book is freaking epic! The only reason it's not a five-star read is because I followed the breadcrumbs and figured out the plot twist.
I love badass female characters who are also trained assassins. Vega, who was orphaned at a young age, was adopted by the Schatten and trained to become a lethal weapon. She was sent to St. Vasili's academy to gather as much information as possible and illuminate her next target, Adrian Zylla.
Vega didn't anticipate what was to come. She expected to uncover lies and deceit, but what she didn't expect was to feel an immediate attraction and pull towards Adrian. Along the way, she discovered betrayal, formed an unexpected friendship, stumbled upon a secret society, and so much more.
The cemetery scene was scorching hot! The side characters had to comment, but Vega shut them down. One of the side characters is Dante, and I love him.
I look forward to his book.
After that ending, I can't wait for the next book. What a cliffhanger!
January 23, 2024
That is the kind of stuff the darkest part of my mind craves.
Even trained assassins have a found family and this trope always cracks my heart wide open.
I love love love Vega. And I hated Adrian with all my heart... Until I didn't.
The last fight between these two was a bit too much but I know there had to be a break up because we needed to meet that evil asshole.
But I just want Vega to be safe, for once.
And I think that book would be possible without Vega being in pain and bruises literally the entire time.
But I inhaled it and even if I think some things should be less violent... I need to give 5 stars because I was SO into this setting.
Thank you for trusting me with an ARC 🖤
Even trained assassins have a found family and this trope always cracks my heart wide open.
I love love love Vega. And I hated Adrian with all my heart... Until I didn't.
The last fight between these two was a bit too much but I know there had to be a break up because we needed to meet that evil asshole.
But I just want Vega to be safe, for once.
And I think that book would be possible without Vega being in pain and bruises literally the entire time.
But I inhaled it and even if I think some things should be less violent... I need to give 5 stars because I was SO into this setting.
Thank you for trusting me with an ARC 🖤
Read
January 18, 2024
***5 "My little liar!!!" stars***
"In the shadows we live...."
What a tragically, beautiful and very dark story was that!!!
In a world full of crime, two damaged souls had find each other...
In the midst of chaos and hatred, two soulmates have met to bring each other on their knees!!!
Enter the dark academia vibes in there, along with the bully tendencies that our hero had and the result was explosive!!!
What's better to ask than a badass assassin heroine that had seen and lived through many ugly things and a powerful and ruthless hero who knows nothing about feelings, but with her, he is feeling everything to the maximum???
"He was a mission for me and I was just a girl he wanted nothing to do with, and that's where the story ended."
Vega Konstantinova wasn't a normal teenager... In her short life, she has been through hell, but she is not afraid of darkness cause in darkness she thrives!!!
She is the best assassin that the Schatten had seen, but she wants out of this life full of blood and secrecy...
One last mission and she will reach her freedom...
But then, her target is becoming a reality and he is shaking her world on its axis...
Will she destroy him or will he destroy her first???
"I never stood a chance against destiny, and if Adrian Zylla was part of that destiny, I was doomed."
Adrian Zylla is very powerful and next in line to his father's throne...
He seems like he has everything on his feet, but Adrian has a hidden agenda.
He wants revenge and to conquer his goals for a better life...
Then, Vega Konstantinova is coming into his turf, and he is stealing his attention...
He knows that she is lying, but she makes him feel unknown things to him...
Now, Vega is becoming an obsession and he has to find a way to exorcise her from inside of him...
"I would uncover all her secrets. I would figure out who Vega Konstantinova was. And once I do, she would have nowhere to hide, nowhere to run."
Vega and Adrian's interactions were very intense from the very first moment they met...
They were both stubborn and ruthless... The situation were getting out of hands many times, but noone could deny the insane attraction between them.. These two were born for each other, but there were standing too many obstacles between them...
"Before he could destroy my heart, I vowed I would get his instead, or I'd die trying."
Oh, how I loved this girl!!! She was fierce, she was loyal, she was strongwilled and she knew no fear... Only Adrian made her fear him and not for the usual reasons...
Her past was tragic and my heart was hurting for her, but I have faith on her and her abilities!!!
As for Adrian??? This man had brought a ton of troubles to that poor girl, but I fell hard for him!!!
He wasn't cold-hearted as he seemed in the beginning, and I liked how he was changing in the presence of Vega...
I can not wait to see how their story will unravel...
"She had awakened the monster in me, and he recognized his mate."
This cliffy destroyed me, even though I had my suspicions for certain matters...
And now, I am sitting on pins and needles until the next part will land on my kindle...
I just fell in love with Vega and Adrian and the universe of St. Vasili's Academy...
There were secondary characters in here that I am craving their turn and I am crossing my fingers for the author to make it a reality in the future...
For you, that you are loving dark romances, this is one book that you don't want to miss! Trust me!!!
"You're looking for love in the wrong place, darling, because I have none left to give..."
**I received an ARC for the exchange of an honest review**
"In the shadows we live...."
What a tragically, beautiful and very dark story was that!!!
In a world full of crime, two damaged souls had find each other...
In the midst of chaos and hatred, two soulmates have met to bring each other on their knees!!!
Enter the dark academia vibes in there, along with the bully tendencies that our hero had and the result was explosive!!!
What's better to ask than a badass assassin heroine that had seen and lived through many ugly things and a powerful and ruthless hero who knows nothing about feelings, but with her, he is feeling everything to the maximum???
"He was a mission for me and I was just a girl he wanted nothing to do with, and that's where the story ended."
Vega Konstantinova wasn't a normal teenager... In her short life, she has been through hell, but she is not afraid of darkness cause in darkness she thrives!!!
She is the best assassin that the Schatten had seen, but she wants out of this life full of blood and secrecy...
One last mission and she will reach her freedom...
But then, her target is becoming a reality and he is shaking her world on its axis...
Will she destroy him or will he destroy her first???
"I never stood a chance against destiny, and if Adrian Zylla was part of that destiny, I was doomed."
Adrian Zylla is very powerful and next in line to his father's throne...
He seems like he has everything on his feet, but Adrian has a hidden agenda.
He wants revenge and to conquer his goals for a better life...
Then, Vega Konstantinova is coming into his turf, and he is stealing his attention...
He knows that she is lying, but she makes him feel unknown things to him...
Now, Vega is becoming an obsession and he has to find a way to exorcise her from inside of him...
"I would uncover all her secrets. I would figure out who Vega Konstantinova was. And once I do, she would have nowhere to hide, nowhere to run."
Vega and Adrian's interactions were very intense from the very first moment they met...
They were both stubborn and ruthless... The situation were getting out of hands many times, but noone could deny the insane attraction between them.. These two were born for each other, but there were standing too many obstacles between them...
"Before he could destroy my heart, I vowed I would get his instead, or I'd die trying."
Oh, how I loved this girl!!! She was fierce, she was loyal, she was strongwilled and she knew no fear... Only Adrian made her fear him and not for the usual reasons...
Her past was tragic and my heart was hurting for her, but I have faith on her and her abilities!!!
As for Adrian??? This man had brought a ton of troubles to that poor girl, but I fell hard for him!!!
He wasn't cold-hearted as he seemed in the beginning, and I liked how he was changing in the presence of Vega...
I can not wait to see how their story will unravel...
"She had awakened the monster in me, and he recognized his mate."
This cliffy destroyed me, even though I had my suspicions for certain matters...
And now, I am sitting on pins and needles until the next part will land on my kindle...
I just fell in love with Vega and Adrian and the universe of St. Vasili's Academy...
There were secondary characters in here that I am craving their turn and I am crossing my fingers for the author to make it a reality in the future...
For you, that you are loving dark romances, this is one book that you don't want to miss! Trust me!!!
"You're looking for love in the wrong place, darling, because I have none left to give..."
**I received an ARC for the exchange of an honest review**
January 24, 2024
Right from the beginning, this book introduced itself as dark and gritty, full of action and intrigue.
We first meet the main female character, Vega. A trained assassin from a very young age after her mother's death, she identifies as a monster and wants to free herself from The Shatten, the organisation that forced her to be part of this dark world. But to gain her freedom, she has to do one more hateful task - go undercover to aid in taking down one of the most dangerous families in the criminal world.
Enter Adrian Zylla - as dark and twisted as Vega, sparks ignite from the moment the two meet. Fighting the chemistry between them, a love/hate, push/pull relationship soon ensues, and it all explodes in one very unseen conclusion.
I really enjoyed the characters in this novel, as they were flawed and realistic. Their growth and development during the course of the book was believable. Both Adrian and Vega struggled with their emotions and this made sense as neither of them had traditional upbringings.
The ending had me so shook! I am definitely looking forward to the second part of the series and I also hope we get to see some of the secondary characters,
*A great many thanks to BookSirens and L.K. Reid for this ARC. It is important to note that I was under no commitment to provide a positive review, and all opinions are undoubtedly my own.*
We first meet the main female character, Vega. A trained assassin from a very young age after her mother's death, she identifies as a monster and wants to free herself from The Shatten, the organisation that forced her to be part of this dark world. But to gain her freedom, she has to do one more hateful task - go undercover to aid in taking down one of the most dangerous families in the criminal world.
Enter Adrian Zylla - as dark and twisted as Vega, sparks ignite from the moment the two meet. Fighting the chemistry between them, a love/hate, push/pull relationship soon ensues, and it all explodes in one very unseen conclusion.
I really enjoyed the characters in this novel, as they were flawed and realistic. Their growth and development during the course of the book was believable. Both Adrian and Vega struggled with their emotions and this made sense as neither of them had traditional upbringings.
The ending had me so shook! I am definitely looking forward to the second part of the series and I also hope we get to see some of the secondary characters,
*A great many thanks to BookSirens and L.K. Reid for this ARC. It is important to note that I was under no commitment to provide a positive review, and all opinions are undoubtedly my own.*
January 11, 2024
★5 pretty chef’s kiss stars★
A fast paced story set in a world where crime, secret societies and academia blend together to create an eerie atmosphere that will steal your heart and mind.
Leila doesn’t fail to portray an array of characters that are all so appealing and whose stories I can’t wait to uncover.
In this first instalment the focus is on Vega and Adrian. These two broken souls are both fierce and hungry for love. Their initial rivalry is perfectly matched by their mutual attraction, the angst ensuing from their interactions is a great premise to an imminent explosion. The chemistry between them is off the charts.
~𝘽𝙚𝙘𝙖𝙪𝙨𝙚 𝙗𝙚𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙚 𝙝𝙚 𝙘𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙙𝙚𝙨𝙩𝙧𝙤𝙮 𝙢𝙮 𝙝𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙩, 𝙄 𝙫𝙤𝙬𝙚𝙙 𝙄 𝙬𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙜𝙚𝙩 𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙞𝙣𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙖𝙙, 𝙤𝙧 𝙄'𝙙 𝙙𝙞𝙚 𝙩𝙧𝙮𝙞𝙣𝙜~
My heart broke for my beautiful Vega, her story is tragic and she carries around her broken pieces with dignity and strength. Her sense of justice, her willingness to help the innocent and punish evil resonates with me on a deeper level. The author does an excellent job in bringing to life this awesome heroine.
~𝙈𝙮 𝙨𝙤𝙪𝙡 𝙢𝙖𝙙𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙙𝙚𝙘𝙞𝙨𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙗𝙚𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙖𝙡 𝙥𝙖𝙧𝙩 𝙤𝙛 𝙢𝙚 𝙘𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙣 𝙖𝙧𝙜𝙪𝙚 𝙖𝙜𝙖𝙞𝙣𝙨𝙩 𝙞𝙩~
Adrian may appear aloof and unfeeling, his initial behaviour didn’t bode well for him. But as the story progressed and his real personality emerged it became clear how tormented he was, and so the reasons behind his apparently erratic attitude. His pain bled through the pages, he may have made some mistakes and his choices led both him and Vega on a destructive path. But I’m sure those decisions will bring growth and whoever hurt his precious 𝑩𝒂𝒎𝒃𝒊 will pay dearly for those actions.
~𝙄 ���𝙪𝙚𝙨𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙬𝙚 𝙬𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙗𝙤𝙩𝙝 𝙡𝙤𝙤𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙨𝙖𝙡𝙫𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙧𝙤𝙣𝙜 𝙥𝙡𝙖𝙘𝙚𝙨, 𝙝𝙤𝙥𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙩𝙬𝙤 𝙬𝙧𝙤𝙣𝙜𝙨 𝙘𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙢𝙖𝙠𝙚 𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙧𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩~
The story is told in dual POV, the author sets the perfect vibe framing a spell binding narrative into a beautifully described setting, the beauty given by nature and old buildings are a tempting combination of an expertly crafted story. A tantalising journey I’m eager to continue.
As it was clearly stated at the beginning of this story a cliffhanger awaited us, alas how I wished I were ready for it. I can’t wait for book two and to go back to Vasili’s Academy. I also hope this world will be explored in depth and that we’ll get the stories of those thrilling side characters.
A fast paced story set in a world where crime, secret societies and academia blend together to create an eerie atmosphere that will steal your heart and mind.
Leila doesn’t fail to portray an array of characters that are all so appealing and whose stories I can’t wait to uncover.
In this first instalment the focus is on Vega and Adrian. These two broken souls are both fierce and hungry for love. Their initial rivalry is perfectly matched by their mutual attraction, the angst ensuing from their interactions is a great premise to an imminent explosion. The chemistry between them is off the charts.
~𝘽𝙚𝙘𝙖𝙪𝙨𝙚 𝙗𝙚𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙚 𝙝𝙚 𝙘𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙙𝙚𝙨𝙩𝙧𝙤𝙮 𝙢𝙮 𝙝𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙩, 𝙄 𝙫𝙤𝙬𝙚𝙙 𝙄 𝙬𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙜𝙚𝙩 𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙞𝙣𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙖𝙙, 𝙤𝙧 𝙄'𝙙 𝙙𝙞𝙚 𝙩𝙧𝙮𝙞𝙣𝙜~
My heart broke for my beautiful Vega, her story is tragic and she carries around her broken pieces with dignity and strength. Her sense of justice, her willingness to help the innocent and punish evil resonates with me on a deeper level. The author does an excellent job in bringing to life this awesome heroine.
~𝙈𝙮 𝙨𝙤𝙪𝙡 𝙢𝙖𝙙𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙙𝙚𝙘𝙞𝙨𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙗𝙚𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙖𝙡 𝙥𝙖𝙧𝙩 𝙤𝙛 𝙢𝙚 𝙘𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙣 𝙖𝙧𝙜𝙪𝙚 𝙖𝙜𝙖𝙞𝙣𝙨𝙩 𝙞𝙩~
Adrian may appear aloof and unfeeling, his initial behaviour didn’t bode well for him. But as the story progressed and his real personality emerged it became clear how tormented he was, and so the reasons behind his apparently erratic attitude. His pain bled through the pages, he may have made some mistakes and his choices led both him and Vega on a destructive path. But I’m sure those decisions will bring growth and whoever hurt his precious 𝑩𝒂𝒎𝒃𝒊 will pay dearly for those actions.
~𝙄 ���𝙪𝙚𝙨𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙬𝙚 𝙬𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙗𝙤𝙩𝙝 𝙡𝙤𝙤𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙨𝙖𝙡𝙫𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙧𝙤𝙣𝙜 𝙥𝙡𝙖𝙘𝙚𝙨, 𝙝𝙤𝙥𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙩𝙬𝙤 𝙬𝙧𝙤𝙣𝙜𝙨 𝙘𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙢𝙖𝙠𝙚 𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙧𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩~
The story is told in dual POV, the author sets the perfect vibe framing a spell binding narrative into a beautifully described setting, the beauty given by nature and old buildings are a tempting combination of an expertly crafted story. A tantalising journey I’m eager to continue.
As it was clearly stated at the beginning of this story a cliffhanger awaited us, alas how I wished I were ready for it. I can’t wait for book two and to go back to Vasili’s Academy. I also hope this world will be explored in depth and that we’ll get the stories of those thrilling side characters.
January 21, 2024
Disclaimer: I received this book at no cost from the publisher/author. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. I am leaving a voluntary review and all opinions are my own.
This is quite a dark and intense story that hooks you from the start. This is a story you will want to sink your teeth into.
I quite enjoyed this author's writing style. I admired the raw storytelling. The plot was so compelling and entertaining that I couldn't pull myself away.
I love stories with broken characters. There are so many emotions and so many possibilities. These characters were so easy to connect with and had some great development. I am excited to see how much more their characters evolve in the next book. I felt so much for these characters and was addicted to their journeys. There were some great secondary characters that I am very interested in as well.
The enemies-to-lovers trope in this story was so well-developed. There was so much angst and you could feel the tension between these two from a distance. I am so eager to see how their story plays out.
Overall, this was a gritty and fierce first installment of this intense series. This one ends on a cliffhanger that will leave you going a little crazy but with much to look forward to in the next book. This book had excellent storytelling and compelling characters. I hope the author plans to explore some of the side characters eventually.
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My bookshelves can sometimes be spoilers.
This is quite a dark and intense story that hooks you from the start. This is a story you will want to sink your teeth into.
I quite enjoyed this author's writing style. I admired the raw storytelling. The plot was so compelling and entertaining that I couldn't pull myself away.
I love stories with broken characters. There are so many emotions and so many possibilities. These characters were so easy to connect with and had some great development. I am excited to see how much more their characters evolve in the next book. I felt so much for these characters and was addicted to their journeys. There were some great secondary characters that I am very interested in as well.
The enemies-to-lovers trope in this story was so well-developed. There was so much angst and you could feel the tension between these two from a distance. I am so eager to see how their story plays out.
Overall, this was a gritty and fierce first installment of this intense series. This one ends on a cliffhanger that will leave you going a little crazy but with much to look forward to in the next book. This book had excellent storytelling and compelling characters. I hope the author plans to explore some of the side characters eventually.
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My bookshelves can sometimes be spoilers.
January 12, 2024
Woah… this book is RIVETING. Wow.
This book is a dark romance, taking place in a world of trained assassins. The first book of the St. Vasili’s Academy series.
The entire story line was executed extremely well. The plot is big and an attention grabber. I finished reading this in under 48 hrs.
The two MC’s have amazing character development and the world development was *chefs kiss* 💋
Here is my take on the MC’s:
Vega (FMC) - from chapter one you get the first glimpse of just who Vega is (or so I thought).
Vega believes she’s a monster. Every bad thing about her sown into her DNA, passed down from a good for nothing mother. Given up as an orphan to be brought in and trained by ‘The Schatten’. Trained to be emotionless and void. Vega doesn’t know love or happiness. All she knows is how to survive. But then enters Adrian… her newest enemy, her last mission before she’s free of this dark lifestyle.
Vega’s character development is a new favorite of mine. I got to see the real Vega come out of hiding and begin to FEEL. She is a beautiful and strong character. I truly don’t know how she survived her childhood. Even as an assassin, her intentions are all in the right place. I loved that she used her skills to take out the evil in this world. The truth behind her drive to complete missions is actually very real to the world we live in today. My black heart will always cheer her on. Vega is my hero. She will stay with me forever.
Adrian (MMC) - Next in line to the Zylla Organization. Son of Gerard Zylla. Adrian is another monster, much like the one he’s meant to seek. He is a soldier, thirsty for revenge. Feeling nothing but anger and chased by his demons. But what happens when the one thing that IS your revenge, turns out being the only one who can make you FEEL? The only one who tames your demons and calms your mind? How can he hurt the one person he is now most destined to protect? Adrian must destroy Vega. But can he?
Adrian’s character was a new one for me. I can’t think of any other characters to compare him to. Which I absolutely love. He was a breath of fresh air for me. His character development was most shocking to me. How easily he gave in to not only just his wants, but his NEEDS. A girl loves a man who knows what he wants and isn’t scared to speak or act on it. We think we know who Adrian is at the beginning, but he continually surprised me. I fell in love with him from the very first interaction. Especially after The Pit.
The ending has me absolutely shook. I still have a headache for clenching my jaw so hard!!
With a huge betrayal, the ending is left on a beautiful cliffhanger. Leaving you BEGGING for the next book… The Pretty Psycho. I’m not even mad about it because this was the PERFECT way to enter book #2.
Do not miss this book, I’m telling you.
L.K. Reid is on to something huge with this. I can feel it in my bones!!!
Disclaimer: This was my very first ARC review. One I am so happy to be leaving for you guys. Enjoy this book and hang on to your undies!!
This book is a dark romance, taking place in a world of trained assassins. The first book of the St. Vasili’s Academy series.
The entire story line was executed extremely well. The plot is big and an attention grabber. I finished reading this in under 48 hrs.
The two MC’s have amazing character development and the world development was *chefs kiss* 💋
Here is my take on the MC’s:
Vega (FMC) - from chapter one you get the first glimpse of just who Vega is (or so I thought).
Vega believes she’s a monster. Every bad thing about her sown into her DNA, passed down from a good for nothing mother. Given up as an orphan to be brought in and trained by ‘The Schatten’. Trained to be emotionless and void. Vega doesn’t know love or happiness. All she knows is how to survive. But then enters Adrian… her newest enemy, her last mission before she’s free of this dark lifestyle.
Vega’s character development is a new favorite of mine. I got to see the real Vega come out of hiding and begin to FEEL. She is a beautiful and strong character. I truly don’t know how she survived her childhood. Even as an assassin, her intentions are all in the right place. I loved that she used her skills to take out the evil in this world. The truth behind her drive to complete missions is actually very real to the world we live in today. My black heart will always cheer her on. Vega is my hero. She will stay with me forever.
Adrian (MMC) - Next in line to the Zylla Organization. Son of Gerard Zylla. Adrian is another monster, much like the one he’s meant to seek. He is a soldier, thirsty for revenge. Feeling nothing but anger and chased by his demons. But what happens when the one thing that IS your revenge, turns out being the only one who can make you FEEL? The only one who tames your demons and calms your mind? How can he hurt the one person he is now most destined to protect? Adrian must destroy Vega. But can he?
Adrian’s character was a new one for me. I can’t think of any other characters to compare him to. Which I absolutely love. He was a breath of fresh air for me. His character development was most shocking to me. How easily he gave in to not only just his wants, but his NEEDS. A girl loves a man who knows what he wants and isn’t scared to speak or act on it. We think we know who Adrian is at the beginning, but he continually surprised me. I fell in love with him from the very first interaction. Especially after The Pit.
The ending has me absolutely shook. I still have a headache for clenching my jaw so hard!!
With a huge betrayal, the ending is left on a beautiful cliffhanger. Leaving you BEGGING for the next book… The Pretty Psycho. I’m not even mad about it because this was the PERFECT way to enter book #2.
Do not miss this book, I’m telling you.
L.K. Reid is on to something huge with this. I can feel it in my bones!!!
Disclaimer: This was my very first ARC review. One I am so happy to be leaving for you guys. Enjoy this book and hang on to your undies!!
February 1, 2024
I enjoyed the book and following the characters. The reveal of who the murderer was shocking. I had no idea that's who it was. I had a completely different theory. And how everyone was working together to bring Vega and Adrian down was another shocker. It would have been a five-star review if their thoughts weren't so repetitive. I felt their internal monologue happened one too many times for my liking.
I also liked that while Vega is the best, she isn't indestructible like you see in other books. She is a human with flaws, and she can suffer injuries like the rest of us, even though she has been in her field since she was young. I would have liked to see more of her friendships and more about the inner workings of the brotherhood, but maybe in the second book.
I am invested in the story and want to see what happens next. I can't believe I have to wait soo long .
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I also liked that while Vega is the best, she isn't indestructible like you see in other books. She is a human with flaws, and she can suffer injuries like the rest of us, even though she has been in her field since she was young. I would have liked to see more of her friendships and more about the inner workings of the brotherhood, but maybe in the second book.
I am invested in the story and want to see what happens next. I can't believe I have to wait soo long .
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 14, 2024
"Honor. Revenge. Death."
The Pretty Savage is book 1 in the new St. Vasili's Academy series, and I absolutely devoured it. The author hooks you right away and doesn't let up until the book ends with a surprising cliffhanger.
Vega. Paid mercenary for the Schatten organization. Orphaned from a young age and trained to unalive people almost immediately, having had her first job at age 10. Now at the age of 19, she wants out. Vega wants a normal life and the possibility to find her own sunshine in this world of darkness.
What she hopes is her last mission before she can be free sets her off. She meets her target-Adrian Zylla. Only, the immediate reaction they have to each other is anything but it should be. Dark, mysterious, held together by longing and so many secrets they both cant help being both disgusted and intrigued at the same time.
Vega and Adrian are fire and water. Their constant push and pull make you want to tear your hair out but then roll over and submit with just how perfect they are for each other. Their forbidden feelings are caught early on and throughout the book become so much more.
The dark romance will have you on the edge of your seat, literally the entire book. Their are SO MANY elements that the author incorporated that make you want to know more in this eerie world of secrets. So many secrets and so many lies are piled on, we have no idea who to believe or not. The treachery that unfolds is jaw dropping and our poor Vega is left at the end with no corner to turn to.
New brothers and old...Will Vega ever understand the truth she's about to unfold? Can this forbidden love between Adrian and Vega test the times or will they crash and burn before they even get a chance to start?
I seriously could not stop turning the pages and was entranced in this dark forest of forbidden love and chaos. Secret societies, Brotherhoods and family wars all captivate you to find out what is happening next. This is a must read and I cannot wait for more to come from this world!!
"People talked about defeating their demons, exorcizing them from their system, but I couldn't do that because the demons were the only things I ever knew. Demons were the ones I could go back to, the only warmth I have ever known."
"Some people carry violence in their blood, but you my darling-you are the embodiment of violence."
"It was the weakness I hated most-the fact that I yearned for someone to love me, to want me, to need me in their life. It was the weakness I locked behind iron gates, pretending that I wasn't just another orphan looking for its place in the world."
"She was a beacon of light in this eternal darkness I called life, and I'd be damned if I allowed someone to take that away from me."
*Overall 5/5
*Heat? 3/5
*Slow Burn
*Dual first person POV
*Ends on cliffhanger
The Pretty Savage is book 1 in the new St. Vasili's Academy series, and I absolutely devoured it. The author hooks you right away and doesn't let up until the book ends with a surprising cliffhanger.
Vega. Paid mercenary for the Schatten organization. Orphaned from a young age and trained to unalive people almost immediately, having had her first job at age 10. Now at the age of 19, she wants out. Vega wants a normal life and the possibility to find her own sunshine in this world of darkness.
What she hopes is her last mission before she can be free sets her off. She meets her target-Adrian Zylla. Only, the immediate reaction they have to each other is anything but it should be. Dark, mysterious, held together by longing and so many secrets they both cant help being both disgusted and intrigued at the same time.
Vega and Adrian are fire and water. Their constant push and pull make you want to tear your hair out but then roll over and submit with just how perfect they are for each other. Their forbidden feelings are caught early on and throughout the book become so much more.
The dark romance will have you on the edge of your seat, literally the entire book. Their are SO MANY elements that the author incorporated that make you want to know more in this eerie world of secrets. So many secrets and so many lies are piled on, we have no idea who to believe or not. The treachery that unfolds is jaw dropping and our poor Vega is left at the end with no corner to turn to.
New brothers and old...Will Vega ever understand the truth she's about to unfold? Can this forbidden love between Adrian and Vega test the times or will they crash and burn before they even get a chance to start?
I seriously could not stop turning the pages and was entranced in this dark forest of forbidden love and chaos. Secret societies, Brotherhoods and family wars all captivate you to find out what is happening next. This is a must read and I cannot wait for more to come from this world!!
"People talked about defeating their demons, exorcizing them from their system, but I couldn't do that because the demons were the only things I ever knew. Demons were the ones I could go back to, the only warmth I have ever known."
"Some people carry violence in their blood, but you my darling-you are the embodiment of violence."
"It was the weakness I hated most-the fact that I yearned for someone to love me, to want me, to need me in their life. It was the weakness I locked behind iron gates, pretending that I wasn't just another orphan looking for its place in the world."
"She was a beacon of light in this eternal darkness I called life, and I'd be damned if I allowed someone to take that away from me."
*Overall 5/5
*Heat? 3/5
*Slow Burn
*Dual first person POV
*Ends on cliffhanger
January 25, 2024
WHAT DID I JUST READ 🥴😭😭 THAT ENDING HAS LEFT ME SO SHOCKED I CANT MOVE RN.
I loved everything about this book. The writing, the story, the fighting, the characters, the twists everything was perfection.
I absolutely love Vega and Adrian. From the moment they made eye contact they had so much chemistry and tension i wanted to close the book and give them some privacy. The way they are both so obsessed with one another and kept trying to deny it was so funny to me.
I cant think of two people perfectly made for each other than those two.
"I was in awe. If this is what infatuation felt like, then I never wanted to go back to the way I was." HE WAS SO IN LOVE 😭😭😭
Vega is amazing. She's someone that doesn't let anyone walk all over her. She's definitely someone I will be a little bit afraid of just bc of how deadly she is. But at the same time I wouldn't mind her slamming me on the floor you know. I feel like her and Adrian work perfectly together bc of how dangerous they both are but bc they give as good as they take.
That ending left me speechless. I was definitely not expecting that to happen at all and now I need the next book. This is one of those books that im definitely not gonna ever forget about and will never get tired of recommending.
Dante and Jax were my favorite side characters and would love a story on them too!!
I loved everything about this book. The writing, the story, the fighting, the characters, the twists everything was perfection.
I absolutely love Vega and Adrian. From the moment they made eye contact they had so much chemistry and tension i wanted to close the book and give them some privacy. The way they are both so obsessed with one another and kept trying to deny it was so funny to me.
I cant think of two people perfectly made for each other than those two.
"I was in awe. If this is what infatuation felt like, then I never wanted to go back to the way I was." HE WAS SO IN LOVE 😭😭😭
Vega is amazing. She's someone that doesn't let anyone walk all over her. She's definitely someone I will be a little bit afraid of just bc of how deadly she is. But at the same time I wouldn't mind her slamming me on the floor you know. I feel like her and Adrian work perfectly together bc of how dangerous they both are but bc they give as good as they take.
That ending left me speechless. I was definitely not expecting that to happen at all and now I need the next book. This is one of those books that im definitely not gonna ever forget about and will never get tired of recommending.
Dante and Jax were my favorite side characters and would love a story on them too!!
January 21, 2024
I wasn't really sure what to expect with this book, but let me tell you..this book blew me AWAY! I was completely hooked from the first chapter and could not put it down! If it weren't for work, I would have finished this book in one day! This very dark and triggering story isn't for the faint of heart. This mindblowing story focuses on loss, abandonment, despair, violence, hatred, and savagery.
Vega is a monster - a trained assassin from a very young age. She knows she's a monster and hates what she's become. She vows to free herself from The Shatten, a shadow organization of assassins. But to win her freedom - she must do the unthinkable. Act undercover as a student at the Academy and infiltrate the world of Adrian Zylla. Holy hotness - Adrian Zylla melted my soul. He is brutal in this book. But Verga holds her own - I don't think I've ever read a more badass female. She is a warrior full of spirit and honor..even when all her cards are against her. Her hatred toward Adrian radiated off each page, but Adrian wouldn't falter. He fell so HARD! This book was breathtaking and gut-wrenching! And the cliffhanger ending killed me! I need book 2, STAT!
Vega is a monster - a trained assassin from a very young age. She knows she's a monster and hates what she's become. She vows to free herself from The Shatten, a shadow organization of assassins. But to win her freedom - she must do the unthinkable. Act undercover as a student at the Academy and infiltrate the world of Adrian Zylla. Holy hotness - Adrian Zylla melted my soul. He is brutal in this book. But Verga holds her own - I don't think I've ever read a more badass female. She is a warrior full of spirit and honor..even when all her cards are against her. Her hatred toward Adrian radiated off each page, but Adrian wouldn't falter. He fell so HARD! This book was breathtaking and gut-wrenching! And the cliffhanger ending killed me! I need book 2, STAT!
January 28, 2024
WHAT IN THE SUGAR HONEY ICE TEA 🫠
And of course now I gotta wait to finish this series but gosh darn it I need it now 😭 this was so good!
And of course now I gotta wait to finish this series but gosh darn it I need it now 😭 this was so good!
January 19, 2024
* trying to keep spoiler free so this will be vauge *
Starters * drum roll please * 🥁🥁🥁🥁
🙌🙌Dual POV 🙌🙌
This book was so dang good.
So if you're a marvel nerd like me you migHT get some black widow vibes from our FMC , personally I loved IT !
Our FMC is a child trained assassin, now in her early twenties. She gets sent on a mission to a school for people like her ; litterally everyone has some sort of criminal relations , crime organizations, mafia children, other assassins and so on.
Our MMC ,tell your husband's, tell your wives because he just might be your new bookfriend.
This book was such a treat. Tragic backstories, Gothic Academia vibes, action, mysteries, secrets and fantastic side characters. I could not out it down there is some dark elements or themes so check TWs but this is really good.
Starters * drum roll please * 🥁🥁🥁🥁
🙌🙌Dual POV 🙌🙌
This book was so dang good.
So if you're a marvel nerd like me you migHT get some black widow vibes from our FMC , personally I loved IT !
Our FMC is a child trained assassin, now in her early twenties. She gets sent on a mission to a school for people like her ; litterally everyone has some sort of criminal relations , crime organizations, mafia children, other assassins and so on.
Our MMC ,tell your husband's, tell your wives because he just might be your new bookfriend.
This book was such a treat. Tragic backstories, Gothic Academia vibes, action, mysteries, secrets and fantastic side characters. I could not out it down there is some dark elements or themes so check TWs but this is really good.
January 22, 2024
Title: 𝕿𝖍𝖊 𝕻𝖗𝖊𝖙𝖙𝖞 𝕾𝖆𝖛𝖆𝖌𝖊: 𝔄 𝔇𝔞𝔯𝔨 𝔈𝔫𝔢𝔪𝔦𝔢𝔰-𝔱𝔬-𝔏𝔬𝔳𝔢𝔯𝔰 ℜ𝔬𝔪𝔞𝔫𝔠𝔢
Author: 𝓛. 𝓚. 𝓡𝓮𝓲𝓭
Series: St. Vasili's Academy book 1
Rating: ☆☆☆☆.5
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶
Author: 𝓛. 𝓚. 𝓡𝓮𝓲𝓭
Series: St. Vasili's Academy book 1
Rating: ☆☆☆☆.5
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶
March 25, 2024
4.5 stars
The FMC is very strong. I really liked this love story, because it’s not a general falling head over heels. It's complicated. L.K really did well on the side plots.
This was my first book I read by L.K. Reid. I meet her at RARE Florence and wanted to try something and gods was it good.
The worldbuilding of this, the characters, so raw and broken. I connected instantly with them. I really liked the plot. It is well thought through and this enemies to lovers trope was so well done.
I fell in love with this book and couldn't put it down. I can't wait for the second installment. It ends on a cliffhanger, and gods, it's a shitty one.
Can't wait for my next Adrian and Vega fix and finding out how this story is going to develop further.
The FMC is very strong. I really liked this love story, because it’s not a general falling head over heels. It's complicated. L.K really did well on the side plots.
This was my first book I read by L.K. Reid. I meet her at RARE Florence and wanted to try something and gods was it good.
The worldbuilding of this, the characters, so raw and broken. I connected instantly with them. I really liked the plot. It is well thought through and this enemies to lovers trope was so well done.
I fell in love with this book and couldn't put it down. I can't wait for the second installment. It ends on a cliffhanger, and gods, it's a shitty one.
Can't wait for my next Adrian and Vega fix and finding out how this story is going to develop further.
March 20, 2024
This dark romance was so explosive it had L.K. Reid’s signature writing style all over it! She is the queen of telling stories with the female lead as an assassin and I’m so here for it! This couple was absolutely tragically beautiful their story is dark bloody violent but beautiful I’m so anxious for the next book in this series especially after that devastating cliffhanger! I can’t wait! Loved it!
February 16, 2024
Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆ Spice: 🌶🌶
Angst: 💔💔💔💔
Cliffhanger? ✔️
Tropes: dark gothic romance, crime organization, assassin/target, forbidden romance, romantic suspense, enemies-to-lovers, touch her and die, stalker, man obsessed, secret society
She was supposed to destroy him, but he destroyed her instead. Vega was a shadow and a nobody. That’s what she was most of her life. It was supposed to be her last mission. The last payment for her debt. But she never expected him. Adrian Zylla started as a pawn. Just another faceless man Vega was supposed to destroy. She was an assassin, a professional killer, with no time for emotions. But all it took was one look, one touch, for her entire world to shatter. She just never thought he would steal her heart and destroy everything she was. And now he wouldn’t let her go. Adrian was a monster and a soldier. That’s what he was most of his life. He’s patiently counted the days, biding his time for the sweet taste of revenge, ready to claim his rightful place at the throne. But he never expected her. Vega Konstantinova made him feel. And he despised every aspect of her presence. She wasn’t a part of his plan, not even close. But all it took was one look, one touch, for the walls around his heart to shatter. She wanted him to let her go, but she should’ve known better. She has awakened the beast, and now—Vega Konstantinova belonged to Adrian.
This was a phenomenal story despite the cliffhanger from hell. It reminded me of my favorite TV show, La Femme Nikita, in several ways. One is my instant crush on the leads, especially my girl crush. Vega was badass, smart, and exciting to read about. Before she's even seven years old, she's recruited into an assassin organization. By the time she's sent to St. Vasili's, she's got a lot of experience under her belt. Most of the characters had difficult lives, both past and present. They are at this school to get better at being bad. I fell in love with the author's creatively descriptive imagery. The plot will have you guessing as each chapter ends. I spent the majority of the book riding the edge of my seat due to the secrets and lies along with several twists and turns. I hate that we have such a long wait until book two is here, but I will be counting down the days until it's in my hands. There are several trigger warnings, so please educate yourself. Otherwise, I highly recommend this read. This is my honest opinion, freely given.
Angst: 💔💔💔💔
Cliffhanger? ✔️
Tropes: dark gothic romance, crime organization, assassin/target, forbidden romance, romantic suspense, enemies-to-lovers, touch her and die, stalker, man obsessed, secret society
She was supposed to destroy him, but he destroyed her instead. Vega was a shadow and a nobody. That’s what she was most of her life. It was supposed to be her last mission. The last payment for her debt. But she never expected him. Adrian Zylla started as a pawn. Just another faceless man Vega was supposed to destroy. She was an assassin, a professional killer, with no time for emotions. But all it took was one look, one touch, for her entire world to shatter. She just never thought he would steal her heart and destroy everything she was. And now he wouldn’t let her go. Adrian was a monster and a soldier. That’s what he was most of his life. He’s patiently counted the days, biding his time for the sweet taste of revenge, ready to claim his rightful place at the throne. But he never expected her. Vega Konstantinova made him feel. And he despised every aspect of her presence. She wasn’t a part of his plan, not even close. But all it took was one look, one touch, for the walls around his heart to shatter. She wanted him to let her go, but she should’ve known better. She has awakened the beast, and now—Vega Konstantinova belonged to Adrian.
This was a phenomenal story despite the cliffhanger from hell. It reminded me of my favorite TV show, La Femme Nikita, in several ways. One is my instant crush on the leads, especially my girl crush. Vega was badass, smart, and exciting to read about. Before she's even seven years old, she's recruited into an assassin organization. By the time she's sent to St. Vasili's, she's got a lot of experience under her belt. Most of the characters had difficult lives, both past and present. They are at this school to get better at being bad. I fell in love with the author's creatively descriptive imagery. The plot will have you guessing as each chapter ends. I spent the majority of the book riding the edge of my seat due to the secrets and lies along with several twists and turns. I hate that we have such a long wait until book two is here, but I will be counting down the days until it's in my hands. There are several trigger warnings, so please educate yourself. Otherwise, I highly recommend this read. This is my honest opinion, freely given.
January 12, 2024
5 stars
What a book, what a journey! I don't remember when I was so impressed by a book I read that left me speechless. I liked the description of the book, I knew the book would be ok, but I didn't expect it to be this good. This is a real book treasure and I simply don't even know what to write.
The book was intense from the very beginning and I couldn't put it down. The characters are phenomenal and you can see that a lot of effort has been invested here, which can be seen in some little things that maybe not everyone can see. For example. knowledge of languages used in the Balkans, and knowledge of Russian and German. I am also impressed by the knowledge of the names that are common in the parts of the Balkans that are mentioned in the book, the names that are common in Russia and Germany.
----
"You're hurting my mom." My lower lip wobbled, and I didn't want to
cry, but he was hurting my mom. I didn't like that. I didn't like people that
were hurting my mom. "I don't like you."
"It's okay." He smiled, but it wasn't a nice smile like the ones my mom
had. It looked strange, ugly. "I can take you to your dad."
"Ne! Azra, ne!" my mom yelled again, her eyes round, filled with fear.
We rarely spoke in Bosnian, only when it was the two of us, and I knew that
this wasn't a good situation. Not like when her boyfriend would come and
bring me chocolate and play with me. This man wasn't a good man.
"I don't have a dad," I said, taking a step back. "I only have my mama."
The man looked down at my mom, glaring at her before his eyes came
up to me. "You have a dad, and he would like to meet you."
"No! You're lying. I don't have a dad!"
"Azra, slušaj me," mama started speaking, but the man lifted his hand
up and slapped her across the face.
"No!"
"Jebena kuja," he spat out, and I only understood one of those words.
Kuja was a female dog, wasn't it? "Začepi gubicu, Elvira, da ti je ja ne bi
začepio."
I had no idea what came over me, but my eyes landed on the big brick
on the ground, and while he looked down at my mom, choking her, I picked
it up, and without a second thought, I rushed toward him, hitting him across
his back with it. "Let her go!" I screamed, surprising him enough for him to
let my mom go.
"Fuck!" The man groaned, starting to straighten himself up, and only
then did I realize how big he was. "You're gonna pay for that, little one."
My eyes were focused on him and I didn't see the moment my mama
stood up, holding now the brick that fell out of my hand once I hit him.
"You're gonna—" But he never got to finish the sentence. My mom
jumped on his back, holding the brick in her other hand, looking at me like
she always does.
With love.
With so much sadness.
"Bježi, Azra. Bježi!" She wanted me to run, to go away.
There was no time to think, no time to argue with her, and as her hand
lifted up, that brick high in the air, I ran.
I ran and ran and ran as the sound of a body falling to the ground
reached my ears, as my mom's scream tore through the night. I ran, going
down the street, and it took me a second to realize that it wasn't my mom
screaming.
It was me.
---
I must also mention the spectrum of emotions that the author managed to describe, which convinced me even more that she is exceptional and that I will continue to read her books in the future. She blew me away! I love how she described Adrian and Vega, their relationship that goes from love to hate. I love that she portrayed them as people who still have some emotions even though they are trained to be emotionless, like true cold-blooded killers.
----
But her… My dark angel, my obsession, she shouldn't have been there
⭐️
Dante wanted
her in The Brotherhood, and I could already see that would be a problem
because there was no way that I would let her in.
Not because she lied about who she was but because she made me feel.
She made me fucking feel for the first time since my brother
disappeared, courtesy of my father, and I hated every single second of it.
Vega Konstantinova.
The taste of her name mixed with the smoke I inhaled as I brought the
cigarette to my lips, reminding me that she was as toxic as the fumes I was
inhaling.
But I couldn't stop.
I didn't want to stop.
⭐️
She was someone I needed to destroy.
⭐️
She was a snake, and snakes weren't allowed in my Garden of Eden.
⭐️
She put a motherfucking spell on me, and I was hers for the taking.
-----
I enjoyed it and I can't wait for the next sequel. As far as I'm concerned, this book deserves more than five stars and will have an honorable place in my library.
Thank you for this opportunity , I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
What a book, what a journey! I don't remember when I was so impressed by a book I read that left me speechless. I liked the description of the book, I knew the book would be ok, but I didn't expect it to be this good. This is a real book treasure and I simply don't even know what to write.
The book was intense from the very beginning and I couldn't put it down. The characters are phenomenal and you can see that a lot of effort has been invested here, which can be seen in some little things that maybe not everyone can see. For example. knowledge of languages used in the Balkans, and knowledge of Russian and German. I am also impressed by the knowledge of the names that are common in the parts of the Balkans that are mentioned in the book, the names that are common in Russia and Germany.
----
"You're hurting my mom." My lower lip wobbled, and I didn't want to
cry, but he was hurting my mom. I didn't like that. I didn't like people that
were hurting my mom. "I don't like you."
"It's okay." He smiled, but it wasn't a nice smile like the ones my mom
had. It looked strange, ugly. "I can take you to your dad."
"Ne! Azra, ne!" my mom yelled again, her eyes round, filled with fear.
We rarely spoke in Bosnian, only when it was the two of us, and I knew that
this wasn't a good situation. Not like when her boyfriend would come and
bring me chocolate and play with me. This man wasn't a good man.
"I don't have a dad," I said, taking a step back. "I only have my mama."
The man looked down at my mom, glaring at her before his eyes came
up to me. "You have a dad, and he would like to meet you."
"No! You're lying. I don't have a dad!"
"Azra, slušaj me," mama started speaking, but the man lifted his hand
up and slapped her across the face.
"No!"
"Jebena kuja," he spat out, and I only understood one of those words.
Kuja was a female dog, wasn't it? "Začepi gubicu, Elvira, da ti je ja ne bi
začepio."
I had no idea what came over me, but my eyes landed on the big brick
on the ground, and while he looked down at my mom, choking her, I picked
it up, and without a second thought, I rushed toward him, hitting him across
his back with it. "Let her go!" I screamed, surprising him enough for him to
let my mom go.
"Fuck!" The man groaned, starting to straighten himself up, and only
then did I realize how big he was. "You're gonna pay for that, little one."
My eyes were focused on him and I didn't see the moment my mama
stood up, holding now the brick that fell out of my hand once I hit him.
"You're gonna—" But he never got to finish the sentence. My mom
jumped on his back, holding the brick in her other hand, looking at me like
she always does.
With love.
With so much sadness.
"Bježi, Azra. Bježi!" She wanted me to run, to go away.
There was no time to think, no time to argue with her, and as her hand
lifted up, that brick high in the air, I ran.
I ran and ran and ran as the sound of a body falling to the ground
reached my ears, as my mom's scream tore through the night. I ran, going
down the street, and it took me a second to realize that it wasn't my mom
screaming.
It was me.
---
I must also mention the spectrum of emotions that the author managed to describe, which convinced me even more that she is exceptional and that I will continue to read her books in the future. She blew me away! I love how she described Adrian and Vega, their relationship that goes from love to hate. I love that she portrayed them as people who still have some emotions even though they are trained to be emotionless, like true cold-blooded killers.
----
But her… My dark angel, my obsession, she shouldn't have been there
⭐️
Dante wanted
her in The Brotherhood, and I could already see that would be a problem
because there was no way that I would let her in.
Not because she lied about who she was but because she made me feel.
She made me fucking feel for the first time since my brother
disappeared, courtesy of my father, and I hated every single second of it.
Vega Konstantinova.
The taste of her name mixed with the smoke I inhaled as I brought the
cigarette to my lips, reminding me that she was as toxic as the fumes I was
inhaling.
But I couldn't stop.
I didn't want to stop.
⭐️
She was someone I needed to destroy.
⭐️
She was a snake, and snakes weren't allowed in my Garden of Eden.
⭐️
She put a motherfucking spell on me, and I was hers for the taking.
-----
I enjoyed it and I can't wait for the next sequel. As far as I'm concerned, this book deserves more than five stars and will have an honorable place in my library.
Thank you for this opportunity , I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 30, 2024
The Pretty Savage
By L.K. Reid
I flipped to that last page and yelled “I KNEW IT!!!” so loud, I almost woking up my sleeping kids! Oh man, I just knew that was coming, or rather “who” was coming and that ending didn’t disappoint. I am hooked and cannot wait until part 2, The Pretty Psycho drops in the coming months. I MUST know what is going to happen next.
So, if you couldn’t tell already, this is a duet, and the second book hasn’t dropped yet. As any part 1 would end before part 2 is available, The Pretty Savage ends on a painful cliffhanger. I mean, I had a feeling this was going to happen because I just finished another book that will become a duet and it ended the same way, in cliffhanger.
Enough of my jibber jabber, which is coming from being keyed up with this cliffhanger…The Pretty Savage is a dark, suspenseful romance about Adrian, MMC, and Vega, FMC. They are both basically assassins, however, they work for one another’s enemies. Vega is planted at St. Vasili’s Academy by her employer with the goal to kill his enemy’s son, which turns out to be Adrian. Getting into the Academy where Adrian is also an instructor, Adrian and Vega feel pulled to each other, like their souls connected when they meet each other, although both is very skeptical of their feelings, not wanting to trust said feelings wholly when they have just met each other. Someone is going after Vega on campus which leads to other twists in the plot which keep the action going throughout the book and kept me pinned to my Kindle, needing to know what was going to happen next….which is the theme here from reading this book and then searching to find out when book 2 will drop! The s e xual tension and build between Adrian and Vega is exciting and when they are together in a scene, I couldn’t help but smile, wondering what kind of sassy banter they would get in to with each other. There are also several open door spicy scenes between our main characters…those were also exciting – lol!
I gave The Pretty Savage 4/5 stars in my review because it’s a great story that has been well thought out and is well written, but some of the scenes where we are reading Vega’s internal dialogue felt a little bit drawn out and some of her thoughts were repetitious, in my opinion. Since this book is very suspenseful and also spicy as Adrian and Vega get to know each other, I felt like some of those slower dialogue moments could have been trimmed a little because I found myself very antsy to get to the next moment when there would be interaction leading to another action-filled scene. I am not one to skip scenes or pages in books, and I found myself tempted a couple of times while reading, but I didn’t as I was fearful I would miss some incredibly important detail about the characters or the storyline.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
BookIG: @tequilamockingbirdlady
GR profile: mvporter
By L.K. Reid
I flipped to that last page and yelled “I KNEW IT!!!” so loud, I almost woking up my sleeping kids! Oh man, I just knew that was coming, or rather “who” was coming and that ending didn’t disappoint. I am hooked and cannot wait until part 2, The Pretty Psycho drops in the coming months. I MUST know what is going to happen next.
So, if you couldn’t tell already, this is a duet, and the second book hasn’t dropped yet. As any part 1 would end before part 2 is available, The Pretty Savage ends on a painful cliffhanger. I mean, I had a feeling this was going to happen because I just finished another book that will become a duet and it ended the same way, in cliffhanger.
Enough of my jibber jabber, which is coming from being keyed up with this cliffhanger…The Pretty Savage is a dark, suspenseful romance about Adrian, MMC, and Vega, FMC. They are both basically assassins, however, they work for one another’s enemies. Vega is planted at St. Vasili’s Academy by her employer with the goal to kill his enemy’s son, which turns out to be Adrian. Getting into the Academy where Adrian is also an instructor, Adrian and Vega feel pulled to each other, like their souls connected when they meet each other, although both is very skeptical of their feelings, not wanting to trust said feelings wholly when they have just met each other. Someone is going after Vega on campus which leads to other twists in the plot which keep the action going throughout the book and kept me pinned to my Kindle, needing to know what was going to happen next….which is the theme here from reading this book and then searching to find out when book 2 will drop! The s e xual tension and build between Adrian and Vega is exciting and when they are together in a scene, I couldn’t help but smile, wondering what kind of sassy banter they would get in to with each other. There are also several open door spicy scenes between our main characters…those were also exciting – lol!
I gave The Pretty Savage 4/5 stars in my review because it’s a great story that has been well thought out and is well written, but some of the scenes where we are reading Vega’s internal dialogue felt a little bit drawn out and some of her thoughts were repetitious, in my opinion. Since this book is very suspenseful and also spicy as Adrian and Vega get to know each other, I felt like some of those slower dialogue moments could have been trimmed a little because I found myself very antsy to get to the next moment when there would be interaction leading to another action-filled scene. I am not one to skip scenes or pages in books, and I found myself tempted a couple of times while reading, but I didn’t as I was fearful I would miss some incredibly important detail about the characters or the storyline.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
BookIG: @tequilamockingbirdlady
GR profile: mvporter
February 16, 2024
Where to even begin? I think I'll keep it short and sweet so as not to let spoilers slip. It was a bit of an emotional rollercoaster for me. Reading about her life experiences, tugged at my heartstrings. I loved so much about this book. Enemies to lovers? Check. Gothic vibes? Check. Strong female character? Check. Villain? Check. But…. which one is the villain?? I guess you'll have to read it to find out. Trust me, you won't regret it. I can't wait to read more about Vega and Adrian! Bring on the next one L.K. Reid!! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 12, 2024
Vega is sent on assignment to St. Vasili’s, where she meets Adrian on her journey there who happens to be a trainer at St. Vasili’s and her target. Vega just wants someone to put her first and to want her, after all the darkness she has been through. Adrian’s nickname for Vega is adorable, but he really struggles to grasp how Vega (and his father) fit in his life. However, something more sinister is at play, and Adrian now wants to protect her and his obsession. The problem is they both have problems telling the truth and not keeping secrets. This is the first book in a duet and does end on a cliffhanger.
February 14, 2024
The pretty savage was an epic read! Vega is a badass Assassin and Adrian is a dark twisted man. This book had me hooked since the beginning. I enjoyed the plot and loved the characters. I'm looking forward to the next book!
February 13, 2024
L.K. Reid is a new to me author and after reading this book, I am now a fan! Couldn't put it down after I started reading. The storyline had me hooked and I can't wait to see how it all ends with the series. The twists and turns keep it interesting and I am hoping Vega gets her HEA!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 11, 2024
I enjoyed this book. There was a lot of internal dialogue, which is fine but sometimes felt a little repetitive. Vega’s backstory is a tough one and I really hope that she ends up with everything she wants. It seemed pretty obvious to me who the person was that took out two of the girls that fought Vega. The author did a good job of really conveying how they felt about eachother from very early on and it made it believable. I wish I didn’t have to wait so long for book two.
February 4, 2024
* Good reads spat me out of my first review before I could finish it - so I’ll try again with less depth… *
Omg. I ATE THIS UP.
This has assassins, bullies to lovers, academy, mafia style, murder mystery vibes.
Vega aka Bambi is bruised and broken almost the whole way through - so fair warning, if you can’t go that dark, you might not enjoy this.
I on the other hand LOVED every single bit. I loved the characters, I loved the storyline and I loved how well it was written. Adrian is everything dark and delicious.
I know it’s only February - but this is my FAVOURITE book of the year so far. This is my first book with this author and I’m just blown away.
This ends in a hell of a cliffhanger - that I worked out early on (as a lot of people did).
Now I’m crying tears of anguish because I have to wait until September for book 2!
Omg. I ATE THIS UP.
This has assassins, bullies to lovers, academy, mafia style, murder mystery vibes.
Vega aka Bambi is bruised and broken almost the whole way through - so fair warning, if you can’t go that dark, you might not enjoy this.
I on the other hand LOVED every single bit. I loved the characters, I loved the storyline and I loved how well it was written. Adrian is everything dark and delicious.
I know it’s only February - but this is my FAVOURITE book of the year so far. This is my first book with this author and I’m just blown away.
This ends in a hell of a cliffhanger - that I worked out early on (as a lot of people did).
Now I’m crying tears of anguish because I have to wait until September for book 2!
February 6, 2024
This was an amazing book! This ending did not disappoint at all!
Vega, as assassin, is sent on a mission but the pull she ends up feeling towards her target, Adrian, is a little unexpected. And the attraction is something they can’t trust. As Bega becomes a target though more twists keep the action going.
Looking forward to the next book!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Vega, as assassin, is sent on a mission but the pull she ends up feeling towards her target, Adrian, is a little unexpected. And the attraction is something they can’t trust. As Bega becomes a target though more twists keep the action going.
Looking forward to the next book!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 22, 2024
The Pretty Savage is one thrilling, suspenseful read with plenty of twists and turns to leave you on the edge of the seat eager to know what comes next. And just when you thought you knew everything, L.K. Reid throws that one final curveball to leave you completely shocked and drooling for the second book. Not only does this have an amazing storyline, but The Pretty Savave also gives you an intriguing set of characters who stand out in their own rights, and with all the little tidbits thrown around for these guys, I'm already crossing my fingers they each have their stories continued on.
The main characters, Vega and Adrian, are straight perfection, their other half and equal in every way. I hate how their upbringings were in this cruel world that was created but at the same time I love that each is a badass and can hold their own. It's always an attractive quality for there to be a strong female lead and Vega really is top notch and dare I say better than the boys when need be. I love that neither jumped too quickly into the other, despite the sparks flying off the pages and sizzling chemistry that both felt instantly. The best part was the dual POVs so you always get to know what's going on instead of just guessing at what the other character is thinking or doing. I love that I was able to read this copy of The Pretty Savage and with already knowing that book two is coming out, I am crazy excited for where L.K. Reid will take us and am here for all the plot twists that are yet to come.
The main characters, Vega and Adrian, are straight perfection, their other half and equal in every way. I hate how their upbringings were in this cruel world that was created but at the same time I love that each is a badass and can hold their own. It's always an attractive quality for there to be a strong female lead and Vega really is top notch and dare I say better than the boys when need be. I love that neither jumped too quickly into the other, despite the sparks flying off the pages and sizzling chemistry that both felt instantly. The best part was the dual POVs so you always get to know what's going on instead of just guessing at what the other character is thinking or doing. I love that I was able to read this copy of The Pretty Savage and with already knowing that book two is coming out, I am crazy excited for where L.K. Reid will take us and am here for all the plot twists that are yet to come.
February 5, 2024
This is my second book from this captivating author. At first I kept getting lost but as I got closer to the halfway point, that’s when my interest piqued. I’m glad to read this book for free, and I can’t wait to read more of the story! Thank you!
January 31, 2024
I was anticipating The Pretty Savage a lot because How Our Heart Breaks by the same author was a very emotional read (which is exactly what I'm looking for when picking a book). I loved the two main characters (in vegadrian we trust) and side characters. The St. Vasili's Academy world is very interesting and I hope the author continues the worldbuilding in the next installment. However, the story was a bit too slow paced for me in the beginning. The final plot twist was also predictable but I'm really looking forward to reading the next book in the series (and a book about Yolanda and Jax?!). Bonus point for the aesthetic board and the playlist (some of my favourites artists are on there). Please note that some heavy topics were hinted at, mentioned and/or talked about so this should be taken into account before reading.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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