Ruthless: A Bad Boy Mafia Romance (Stepbrother Romance) Paperback November 30, 2016

**** "Ruthless: A Bad Boy Mafia Romance" by Alexis Abbott emerges as a compelling entry in the bad boy romance genre, deftly exploring themes of family, betrayal, and forbidden desire. The narrative follows Sarah Fairfax, a young woman grappling with her tumultuous past after being cast out by her stepmother following her father's death. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she finds herself tasked with spying on her stepbrother, Dimitri Brokov, a powerful figure within the Russian mafia. Abbott’s writing showcases a marked improvement from her debut, with enhanced character development and a gripping storyline that captures the reader's attention from the outset. The chemistry between Sarah and Dimitri is palpable, characterized by a tumultuous mix of attraction and danger. As Sarah navigates her conflicting emotions, the author excels in creating a narrative filled with suspense, steamy encounters, and emotional depth. The strong female protagonist, Sarah, is portrayed as intelligent and assertive, possessing a fierce determination that resonates with readers. Dimitri, characterized by his ruthlessness and physical power, adds a layer of intrigue to the story, embodying the classic "bad boy" trope with a vulnerability that reveals deeper motivations. Although the novel features steamy scenes that some might find risqué, these moments are integrated into the storyline, enhancing the overall tension and allure. The pacing is fast and engaging, with Abbott successfully intertwining action and romance to keep readers on the edge of their seats. "Ruthless" not only delivers a captivating tale filled with provocative themes, but it also leaves readers yearning for more, hinting at future stories within the same universe. Abbott's knack for creating immersively atmospheric plots grants the book a unique identity in a crowded genre. Overall, "Ruthless" stands out as an impressive follow-up to Abbott's earlier work, firmly establishing her as a noteworthy author in the contemporary romance narrative space. **