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Wicked Vows
Sanctum
When I run, he always chases.
Where I go, he always follows.
Primal, Powerful, Possessive.
Aleksandr Romanov is my nemesis...
And my new husband.
He thinks I’m the spoiled mafia princess.
That I have the world at my fingertips.
I may be his new wife,
But he doesn’t know the real me.
No one does.
But when Aleksandr touches me,
He cuts me wide open,
As if trying to see the secrets I hide.
Every touch becomes foreplay,
Every look stokes our passion.
Our hatred turns to obsession.
But when he unearths the secrets I’ve kept well hidden from the world…
I have nowhere left to hide.
No one to save me from the truth,
No one to save me from my enemies…
No one to save me from the only man I’ve ever loved.
Sanctum is a standalone dark bratva, arranged marriage romance with a fiery, quick-witted heroine, and an irascible, smoldering-hot hero with “look at her and I’ll destroy you” spirit. No cliffhanger. HEA included.
Where I go, he always follows.
Primal, Powerful, Possessive.
Aleksandr Romanov is my nemesis...
And my new husband.
He thinks I’m the spoiled mafia princess.
That I have the world at my fingertips.
I may be his new wife,
But he doesn’t know the real me.
No one does.
But when Aleksandr touches me,
He cuts me wide open,
As if trying to see the secrets I hide.
Every touch becomes foreplay,
Every look stokes our passion.
Our hatred turns to obsession.
But when he unearths the secrets I’ve kept well hidden from the world…
I have nowhere left to hide.
No one to save me from the truth,
No one to save me from my enemies…
No one to save me from the only man I’ve ever loved.
Sanctum is a standalone dark bratva, arranged marriage romance with a fiery, quick-witted heroine, and an irascible, smoldering-hot hero with “look at her and I’ll destroy you” spirit. No cliffhanger. HEA included.
350 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 12, 2024
About the author
Jane Henry
105 books2,373 followersFueled by dark chocolate and even darker coffee, USA Today bestselling author Jane Henry writes what she loves to read – character-driven, unputdownable romance featuring dominant alpha males and the powerful heroines who bring them to their knees. She’s believed in the power of love and romance since Belle won over the beast, and finally decided to write love stories of her own.
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Read for FREE with Kindle Unlimited!
Amazon: https://amzn.to/499qhmW
Amazon Worldwide: https://mybook.to/SanctumJH
Add to Goodreads: https://bit.ly/49ybySp
April 23, 2024
I'm going to mark this with spoilers, but still. spoilers.
First: The whole "she's the best person to hold a gun thats ever held a gun" thing was weird. So weird. Like there was no reason for her to be that good. She could have been good and them all impressed without it being so fucking over the top. She hit every target? Even the ones that were impossible to see.. with a handgun? Right fine whatever. It's supposed to be empowering, I understand. Up until that point I was annoyed with minor character things, but this took me right out of the book. I stopped reading and ranted to my friend about this bit before continuing.
First part B: Why. WHY. WHY the fuck did we have to show off her gun skills in the middle of the think with Leo and Saul? Like it was weird spot to show off. ESPECIALLY OUTSIDE A GALA WHERE WE TALK NOT A FEW PAGES AGO ABOUT HOW WE WANTED TO NOT CAUSE A RUCKUS. YES LETS JUST SHOOT AT SOME BULLSHIT
Second: The FMC and the MMC are horrible communicators. So bad I kept having to go back and reread their conversations because I HAD NO IDEA WHY WE WERE FIGHTING. If that was the intention, cool. it worked. For example, he comes back from going to confront her father all pissed off. They are fighting but not fighting?! that whole scene I understood that he felt like she'd betrayed him and she was thinking he was going to kill her but WHY? Yeah he's a mobster but she fucking knew that? Yes trauma makes you do weird shit but he hadn't once like betrayed her at this point. Then the over reaction of her park after that... WHY THE FUCK YOU KEEPING WEAPONS IN THE TODDLERS CLOSET?!
Third: The AirBNB/house rental thing. I'm sorry. WHAT THE FUCKING FUCK? You and Aria are great 'hackers' but you don't do a quick google search on the places your HIGH PROFILE PEOPLE are going? Like your brother was just jumped outside a club. Yeah, you are strong man who can handle yourself but even Aria knew something was 'wrong' with the family and y'all didn't fucking do a google search? Often in books 'hackers' is like an ambiguous term that includes a person that gathers information and I really hate that because it's generally not true but in other spots in their book they show both Aria and Aleks doing intel gathering. So this weird fucking think pissed me off so much.
The gun thing is one thing, I'll let a lot of shit go if I like the book. The AirBNB and the gun thing were too fucking much. too fucking much.
First: The whole "she's the best person to hold a gun thats ever held a gun" thing was weird. So weird. Like there was no reason for her to be that good. She could have been good and them all impressed without it being so fucking over the top. She hit every target? Even the ones that were impossible to see.. with a handgun? Right fine whatever. It's supposed to be empowering, I understand. Up until that point I was annoyed with minor character things, but this took me right out of the book. I stopped reading and ranted to my friend about this bit before continuing.
First part B: Why. WHY. WHY the fuck did we have to show off her gun skills in the middle of the think with Leo and Saul? Like it was weird spot to show off. ESPECIALLY OUTSIDE A GALA WHERE WE TALK NOT A FEW PAGES AGO ABOUT HOW WE WANTED TO NOT CAUSE A RUCKUS. YES LETS JUST SHOOT AT SOME BULLSHIT
Second: The FMC and the MMC are horrible communicators. So bad I kept having to go back and reread their conversations because I HAD NO IDEA WHY WE WERE FIGHTING. If that was the intention, cool. it worked. For example, he comes back from going to confront her father all pissed off. They are fighting but not fighting?! that whole scene I understood that he felt like she'd betrayed him and she was thinking he was going to kill her but WHY? Yeah he's a mobster but she fucking knew that? Yes trauma makes you do weird shit but he hadn't once like betrayed her at this point. Then the over reaction of her park after that... WHY THE FUCK YOU KEEPING WEAPONS IN THE TODDLERS CLOSET?!
Third: The AirBNB/house rental thing. I'm sorry. WHAT THE FUCKING FUCK? You and Aria are great 'hackers' but you don't do a quick google search on the places your HIGH PROFILE PEOPLE are going? Like your brother was just jumped outside a club. Yeah, you are strong man who can handle yourself but even Aria knew something was 'wrong' with the family and y'all didn't fucking do a google search? Often in books 'hackers' is like an ambiguous term that includes a person that gathers information and I really hate that because it's generally not true but in other spots in their book they show both Aria and Aleks doing intel gathering. So this weird fucking think pissed me off so much.
The gun thing is one thing, I'll let a lot of shit go if I like the book. The AirBNB and the gun thing were too fucking much. too fucking much.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 12, 2024
I’m not going to do my proper review for this one mainly because I cba.
This was a nice read, it wasn’t really enemies to lovers but I loved it either way. I loved how loyal the family were and how accepting they were to Harper, it was cute. Alexsandr had me weak. I loved him.
This was a really good quick read for me, and I really enjoyed it!.
This was a nice read, it wasn’t really enemies to lovers but I loved it either way. I loved how loyal the family were and how accepting they were to Harper, it was cute. Alexsandr had me weak. I loved him.
This was a really good quick read for me, and I really enjoyed it!.
April 16, 2024
PERFECTION!! The second book in Jane Henry’s Wicked Vows series is PHENOMENAL!! This arranged marriage mafia romance is has everything you want. Intrigue, suspense and a whole lot of passion. From beginning to end I was highly consumed with Aleksandr and Harper’s FASCINATING and INTERESTING story.
Get ready to have an incredibly entertaining and sexy time with Alek and Harper.
These characters are just the best! They are captivating, inviting and very enticing. The chemistry between them burns right off the pages of their sensual and emotional love story
.
You will absolutely love Alek’s dominant, possessive and protective nature. He’s definitely the book boyfriend material we are ALL looking for.
As for Harper, she sassy, endearing and such a badass empowering woman!! This is why I am so obsessed with Jane Henry’s MFC in this series, they’re FREAKING AWESOME!!!
So give yourselves the pleasure of escaping in a story that will give you ALL the feels, has some mind blowing action and the most beautiful family relationships that absolutely touch your soul!!!
I 100% recommend this EXHILARATING and STUNNING romance!
Get ready to have an incredibly entertaining and sexy time with Alek and Harper.
These characters are just the best! They are captivating, inviting and very enticing. The chemistry between them burns right off the pages of their sensual and emotional love story
.
You will absolutely love Alek’s dominant, possessive and protective nature. He’s definitely the book boyfriend material we are ALL looking for.
As for Harper, she sassy, endearing and such a badass empowering woman!! This is why I am so obsessed with Jane Henry’s MFC in this series, they’re FREAKING AWESOME!!!
So give yourselves the pleasure of escaping in a story that will give you ALL the feels, has some mind blowing action and the most beautiful family relationships that absolutely touch your soul!!!
I 100% recommend this EXHILARATING and STUNNING romance!
August 14, 2024
»You wear your defenses like a second skin, Princess.«
»And you wear your arrogance like a crown, Your Majesty.«
★ ★
❥ 𝑯𝒂𝒓𝒑𝒆𝒓
Boring. She felt flat and has no personality.
❥ 𝑨𝒍𝒆𝒌𝒔𝒂𝒏𝒅𝒓
He was kinda boring too? I didn‘t form any connection with him while reading. He felt like a cheap copy of his brother Mikhail.
✥ 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒃𝒐𝒐𝒌
Honestly this book started so good and promising. It could have been amazing with all the secrets and arranged marriage. Sadly the implementation lacked. The writing style felt flat and there were no emotions delivered to the reader. Everything was just described and you have to accept that. No feelings involved.
I had big problems with the part after the wedding: Harper tells Aleksandr that she was sexually assaulted and she isn‘t sure if she can have sex with him. He tells her it’s okay and he will stop if she said so. Guess what? He doesn‘t stop and told her it had to be done and the marriage must be consumed. Bro wtf. This is not how we treat a woman who was sexually assaulted!!!
Next Harpers big secret was revealed and it‘s just okay for everyone without any drama or emotions? Boring.
The whole book was just boring because of the lack of emotions. I felt nothing reading it. Where is the fun and tension from the first book? Is this written by the same author?
Not sure if I will continue with this series.
𝐰𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐈 𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤?
No, just no.
𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝟓
plot: 2/5
spice: 3/5
humor: 3/5
couple/tension: 3/5
world building: 4/5
happy end?: yes
𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬
possessive and protective hero, mafia, instant attraction, lies and secrets, forced proximity, he falls first and harder, morally dark hero, darkromance, kidnapping, captor x captive, forced marriage, mafia princess x mafia boss
𝐬𝐚𝐟𝐞𝐭𝐲
ages: both in their early twenties I think
cheating: no
sharing: no
kinks: breeding, bdsm
𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬
#1 Sovereign ★ ★ ★ ★
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
#2 Sanctum ★ ★
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
»And you wear your arrogance like a crown, Your Majesty.«
★ ★
❥ 𝑯𝒂𝒓𝒑𝒆𝒓
Boring. She felt flat and has no personality.
❥ 𝑨𝒍𝒆𝒌𝒔𝒂𝒏𝒅𝒓
He was kinda boring too? I didn‘t form any connection with him while reading. He felt like a cheap copy of his brother Mikhail.
✥ 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒃𝒐𝒐𝒌
Honestly this book started so good and promising. It could have been amazing with all the secrets and arranged marriage. Sadly the implementation lacked. The writing style felt flat and there were no emotions delivered to the reader. Everything was just described and you have to accept that. No feelings involved.
I had big problems with the part after the wedding: Harper tells Aleksandr that she was sexually assaulted and she isn‘t sure if she can have sex with him. He tells her it’s okay and he will stop if she said so. Guess what? He doesn‘t stop and told her it had to be done and the marriage must be consumed. Bro wtf. This is not how we treat a woman who was sexually assaulted!!!
Next Harpers big secret was revealed and it‘s just okay for everyone without any drama or emotions? Boring.
The whole book was just boring because of the lack of emotions. I felt nothing reading it. Where is the fun and tension from the first book? Is this written by the same author?
Not sure if I will continue with this series.
𝐰𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐈 𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤?
No, just no.
𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝟓
plot: 2/5
spice: 3/5
humor: 3/5
couple/tension: 3/5
world building: 4/5
happy end?: yes
𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬
possessive and protective hero, mafia, instant attraction, lies and secrets, forced proximity, he falls first and harder, morally dark hero, darkromance, kidnapping, captor x captive, forced marriage, mafia princess x mafia boss
𝐬𝐚𝐟𝐞𝐭𝐲
ages: both in their early twenties I think
cheating: no
sharing: no
kinks: breeding, bdsm
𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬
#1 Sovereign ★ ★ ★ ★
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
#2 Sanctum ★ ★
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
April 12, 2024
Ms Henry's ability to draw you in from the beginning is compelling. She has once again enticed us with a tale of revenge and redemption. She did a beautiful job in the best possible way to have a heartwarming conclusion. This book was a solid read. It plays with your mind while delving into the psychology of the characters. It is the second book in the Wicked Vow series. It is set in the Cove and time for another arranged marriage to strengthen the Romanov Family. This is Harper and Aleksandr's story.
Aleksandr will honor his duty for the sake of his family, but his new bride has other ideas. Harper gave Aleksandr a run for his money, but the cat caught his mouse. Aleksandr surprised me at times. Yes, he was dangerous, but Harper was better off with him than with her family, who treated her like dirt. He will stop at nothing to have revenge and make Harper's dreams come true. He vowed to love her. He vowed to protect her. He vowed to make the demons of her past pay. I admired how he appreciated and encouraged Harper.
Harper was one badass. She was strong, sassy, and full of life. You had to admire her resilience and courage. She was the perfect mix of strength and submission. She was sold off to Aleksandr who accepted all of her secrets past and present. The misunderstandings they encounter could have been prevented with an honest conversation.
I liked how they didn't quit and turn their backs on each other but fought for their relationship. They experienced every emotion known to mankind. The spark between them roared to life and the sex scenes were spelled out in detail. As far as Aleksandr was concerned there was honor in the criminal world that he lived in and he would have revenge for Harper.
This story had many colorful secondary characters who added depth. It may have been mafia-themed but it was not brutal. I liked that in the end Aleksandr and Harper’s relationship was based on mutual respect and love. The emotional growth of both Aleksandr and Harper was the beauty of the book for me.
Aleksandr will honor his duty for the sake of his family, but his new bride has other ideas. Harper gave Aleksandr a run for his money, but the cat caught his mouse. Aleksandr surprised me at times. Yes, he was dangerous, but Harper was better off with him than with her family, who treated her like dirt. He will stop at nothing to have revenge and make Harper's dreams come true. He vowed to love her. He vowed to protect her. He vowed to make the demons of her past pay. I admired how he appreciated and encouraged Harper.
Harper was one badass. She was strong, sassy, and full of life. You had to admire her resilience and courage. She was the perfect mix of strength and submission. She was sold off to Aleksandr who accepted all of her secrets past and present. The misunderstandings they encounter could have been prevented with an honest conversation.
I liked how they didn't quit and turn their backs on each other but fought for their relationship. They experienced every emotion known to mankind. The spark between them roared to life and the sex scenes were spelled out in detail. As far as Aleksandr was concerned there was honor in the criminal world that he lived in and he would have revenge for Harper.
This story had many colorful secondary characters who added depth. It may have been mafia-themed but it was not brutal. I liked that in the end Aleksandr and Harper’s relationship was based on mutual respect and love. The emotional growth of both Aleksandr and Harper was the beauty of the book for me.
April 10, 2024
Mikhail knows that they still need alliances with other families to strengthen the Romanovs. Now that he is happily married, Aleks is next in line. He knows it is his duty and will follow through with his brother’s request. He had once been in love but he had since toughened himself to weakness.
Harper Bianchi had been abused by her family all her life, both mentally and physically. But despite this she has a backbone of steel and sass. Two years earlier she had been roofied and assaulted. Her family blamed her and furious that she was now ‘damaged goods’, ‘Worthless’. They were eager to palm her off, so her brother Saul had leapt at the chance of an ‘alliance’.
Harper had a reputation as a runner. But unbeknoen to anyone, the result was a child that she adored who lived with a foster family. They welcomed her every time she was able to snatch a few blessed hours away from her family.
Of course her first meeting with Aleks ended up in a chase to which he took great delight. To Harper, his approach needed some work!
This is the second book in the Romanov series and it doesn’t disappoint. Harper is a brilliant female lead with wit and sass for days, and more than just a pretty face. She instantly bonds with the females of the family, and cannot believe how well she finds herself getting along with the initial ornery Aleks. We see a different side to Aleks as Harper complements him. The family still has enemies in the shadows and are suffering attacks. But the Harper and Aleks have electric chemistry between them. Having all the family around to find out more about is also superb. An excellent addition.
Harper Bianchi had been abused by her family all her life, both mentally and physically. But despite this she has a backbone of steel and sass. Two years earlier she had been roofied and assaulted. Her family blamed her and furious that she was now ‘damaged goods’, ‘Worthless’. They were eager to palm her off, so her brother Saul had leapt at the chance of an ‘alliance’.
Harper had a reputation as a runner. But unbeknoen to anyone, the result was a child that she adored who lived with a foster family. They welcomed her every time she was able to snatch a few blessed hours away from her family.
Of course her first meeting with Aleks ended up in a chase to which he took great delight. To Harper, his approach needed some work!
This is the second book in the Romanov series and it doesn’t disappoint. Harper is a brilliant female lead with wit and sass for days, and more than just a pretty face. She instantly bonds with the females of the family, and cannot believe how well she finds herself getting along with the initial ornery Aleks. We see a different side to Aleks as Harper complements him. The family still has enemies in the shadows and are suffering attacks. But the Harper and Aleks have electric chemistry between them. Having all the family around to find out more about is also superb. An excellent addition.
Read
April 19, 2024This didn't feel like a Mafia story. She's a mistreated mafia princess, and he has to marry her to secure his family in a war. It was mainly minutia: putting makeup on, cooking steaks, a secret roof, and insta love. Bored, not willing to continue.
DNF
DNF
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 19, 2024
4/5⭐️
2.5/5🌶️
I loved book 1 (Sovereign) so much & I was really looking forward to book 2, Aleks & Harper’s story. While it was a little similar to book 1 in the way it started, I still enjoyed their story all the same! There are quite a bit of secrets & twists to their story which I loved & kept me interested.
One thing I’m loving about this series is the banter! All of the characters have such amazing banter & chemistry.
Thank you Jane & VPR for the ARC!
Tropes:
- Dark/Mafia Romance
- Arranged Marriage
- Enemies to Lovers
- Forced Proximity
- Traumatic Past
- Touch Her & Die
2.5/5🌶️
I loved book 1 (Sovereign) so much & I was really looking forward to book 2, Aleks & Harper’s story. While it was a little similar to book 1 in the way it started, I still enjoyed their story all the same! There are quite a bit of secrets & twists to their story which I loved & kept me interested.
One thing I’m loving about this series is the banter! All of the characters have such amazing banter & chemistry.
Thank you Jane & VPR for the ARC!
Tropes:
- Dark/Mafia Romance
- Arranged Marriage
- Enemies to Lovers
- Forced Proximity
- Traumatic Past
- Touch Her & Die
April 14, 2024
RTC
Mikhail and Aria are still my favorites from this series. 😍
Mikhail and Aria are still my favorites from this series. 😍
June 29, 2024
Some things were pretty outrageous and unbelievable, neither of the main characters were likeable.
April 5, 2024
This series hooked me in completely with Sovereign and I have been SO excited for this next instalment. This was another winner for me! I love a mafia arranged marriage romance and this one was filled with amazing complex characters, intense chemistry, secrets and suspense to keep you completely consumed.
If you love a mafia romance, I highly recommend this series!
Aleks must marry to help strengthen his families Bratva so he’s setup to marry Harper, a woman he’s never met and has no idea what he’s getting himself into. Because Harper is not a meek mafia princess, she has been through so much trauma in her life and she’s got secrets she’ll do anything to keep.
The verbal sparring, banter, and intense chemistry between these two was instantaneous and I loved every single moment! There is just something about a ruthless mafia man becoming a complete simp for his girl. And Aleks does exactly that! The way he owned up to his mistakes, supported Harper and stood by her through everything had me melting in a puddle for this man.
Jane did a fantastic job building up the secrets, twists and suspense in this and had me on the edge and turning the pages so fast I needed to know what was going to happen next.
I loved seeing characters from Sovereign again as well as Polina who is continuing to be a fave side character for me! Looking forward to the next instalment and hoping for her book soon 👀
If you love a mafia romance, I highly recommend this series!
Aleks must marry to help strengthen his families Bratva so he’s setup to marry Harper, a woman he’s never met and has no idea what he’s getting himself into. Because Harper is not a meek mafia princess, she has been through so much trauma in her life and she’s got secrets she’ll do anything to keep.
The verbal sparring, banter, and intense chemistry between these two was instantaneous and I loved every single moment! There is just something about a ruthless mafia man becoming a complete simp for his girl. And Aleks does exactly that! The way he owned up to his mistakes, supported Harper and stood by her through everything had me melting in a puddle for this man.
Jane did a fantastic job building up the secrets, twists and suspense in this and had me on the edge and turning the pages so fast I needed to know what was going to happen next.
I loved seeing characters from Sovereign again as well as Polina who is continuing to be a fave side character for me! Looking forward to the next instalment and hoping for her book soon 👀
April 11, 2024
Sanctum: A Dark Bratva Arranged Marriage (Wicked Vows) by Jane Henry is a continuation of the Romanov family. Yes, the book can be read as a stand-alone. Heck, initially, I thought it was till I realized I knew the characters. Aleksandr has been instructed by his older brother and his Pakhan that he needs to marry. The organization has the money, but they need man power. The quickest way to achieve their goal is an arranged marriage with the Bianchi family. Harper Bianchi lives a life of smoke and mirrors. She hates her life and wants nothing more than to run away from it all. She has secrets, and she just wants to live her life on her own terms. Aleksandr isn't happy about this arranged marriage, but he will follow through with it even if she is a pampered princess. Little does he know the real Harper. All he knows is that she is a runner. However, the more he learns about her, the more he ends up falling for her. Harper will fulfill her duty to her family, but as soon as she gets a chance, she is out. However, as Aleksandr learns more about Harper and her secret, they join forces. I really enjoyed this story. There were quite a few twists and turns. I was here for all of it. I really enjoyed catching up with everyone and look forward to the next brother or sister who ends up getting married or who knows what else. Whatever it is, count me in. 4.5 stars for me.
April 13, 2024
The Wicked Vows series honestly hasn't disappointed me yet.
Sanctum follows Aleks, one of the sons, who is part of the Bratva (Russian Mafia) and the only way he can save his family is to marry Harper. One of his rival families daughter's.
She has secrets. She has trauma. and now she is marrying on of the most dangerous men out there.
I truly loved the arranged marriage of this one. Aleks is the true definition of touch her and die. The plot twists and the suspense of this book had me so intrigued the whole time and I cannot wait for the next one!!
Tropes
-arranged marriage
-enemies to lovers
-she runs, he chases her ;)
-plot twists/secrets
-forced proximity
-touch her and die
4.5/5 stars
2/5 spice
Sanctum follows Aleks, one of the sons, who is part of the Bratva (Russian Mafia) and the only way he can save his family is to marry Harper. One of his rival families daughter's.
She has secrets. She has trauma. and now she is marrying on of the most dangerous men out there.
I truly loved the arranged marriage of this one. Aleks is the true definition of touch her and die. The plot twists and the suspense of this book had me so intrigued the whole time and I cannot wait for the next one!!
Tropes
-arranged marriage
-enemies to lovers
-she runs, he chases her ;)
-plot twists/secrets
-forced proximity
-touch her and die
4.5/5 stars
2/5 spice
June 30, 2024
I love the way Jane Henry tells a mafia romance story! These men are like M&M candies … hard shells on the outside to take care of business and soft and sweet on the inside when it comes to those they love and are loyal to. ~sigh~ This time we meet, and get, Aleksandr Romanov and Harper Bianchi's story. The Bratva had just been attacked for the third time and they needed alliances quickly. Aleks has always known he would do whatever was necessary for the family and that one day he would marry, not for personal love, but for the benefit of those within. He'd already had his love when he was younger and lost her. Now it was a matter of necessity. Harper Bianchi had no idea what was coming her way. She thought her mother was primping her for another social media post until her brother came in and roughly took her downstairs. Then she saw him, was introduced to him, and told she would become his wife immediately.
What's a girl to do? RUN!! Yep, Harper is a runner. The banter and barbs these two throw at each other are infectious. At times it's humorous. And it's also heat-inducing. The shocks and surprises keep coming throughout the storyline but these two broken souls persevere, even after slipping or falling within their doubts. It's a wonderfully romantic tale with all the hard edges and thrills that come with a mafia tale.
What's a girl to do? RUN!! Yep, Harper is a runner. The banter and barbs these two throw at each other are infectious. At times it's humorous. And it's also heat-inducing. The shocks and surprises keep coming throughout the storyline but these two broken souls persevere, even after slipping or falling within their doubts. It's a wonderfully romantic tale with all the hard edges and thrills that come with a mafia tale.
April 1, 2024
Tropes:
🖤Mafia
🌹Arranged Marriage
🖤Snarky Banter
🌹Violence
🖤Touch Her and Die
🌹Sexy
•Harper is bargained off by her family to Aleks- Mafia bad ass boss and she’s forced to marry him! She can’t let him take her. She is known as a runner for a reason and she decides she won’t make this easy. She has to escape!
•Aleks doesn’t generally entertain such behavior but Harper is sexy and interesting and draws him in. They find themselves enjoying each other more than they anticipated. What he didn’t see coming was the what Harper had been keeping secrets. But she’s his now, and what’s hers is his!
Aleks will seek justice for Harper, from all who has caused her pain. But it seems she is more than capable of helping him do just that also. Their bond and sparks ignite while business is taken care of and a family unites like Harper has never known.
“I couldn’t be happier that he finally, finally captured me.”
💭 I will always appreciate a well written sexy mafia book that keeps me drawn in. And this book does just that! A quick sexy read. 🔥
🖤Mafia
🌹Arranged Marriage
🖤Snarky Banter
🌹Violence
🖤Touch Her and Die
🌹Sexy
•Harper is bargained off by her family to Aleks- Mafia bad ass boss and she’s forced to marry him! She can’t let him take her. She is known as a runner for a reason and she decides she won’t make this easy. She has to escape!
•Aleks doesn’t generally entertain such behavior but Harper is sexy and interesting and draws him in. They find themselves enjoying each other more than they anticipated. What he didn’t see coming was the what Harper had been keeping secrets. But she’s his now, and what’s hers is his!
Aleks will seek justice for Harper, from all who has caused her pain. But it seems she is more than capable of helping him do just that also. Their bond and sparks ignite while business is taken care of and a family unites like Harper has never known.
“I couldn’t be happier that he finally, finally captured me.”
💭 I will always appreciate a well written sexy mafia book that keeps me drawn in. And this book does just that! A quick sexy read. 🔥
April 2, 2024
4⭐️
Sanctum follows Aleks Romanov and Harper.
Loved loved their banter!! They’re so mean towards each other and even after their feelings for one another grow, their banter is still so lively and entertaining.
One thing I do appreciate about this series is that Jane always puts a unique spin/twist on the plot and introduces a factor to a mafia romance that I haven’t read before. I was pleasantly surprised to see that remain true in Sanctum like it was in Book 1 of this series.
I enjoyed Harper’s character growth in this story. She finds her confidence after being with Aleks and recognizes the power she holds within.
Thank you to Valentine PR and Jane Henry for this ARC!
Read if you like…
mafia romance
arranged marriage
Enemies to lovers
Sanctum follows Aleks Romanov and Harper.
Loved loved their banter!! They’re so mean towards each other and even after their feelings for one another grow, their banter is still so lively and entertaining.
One thing I do appreciate about this series is that Jane always puts a unique spin/twist on the plot and introduces a factor to a mafia romance that I haven’t read before. I was pleasantly surprised to see that remain true in Sanctum like it was in Book 1 of this series.
I enjoyed Harper’s character growth in this story. She finds her confidence after being with Aleks and recognizes the power she holds within.
Thank you to Valentine PR and Jane Henry for this ARC!
Read if you like…
mafia romance
arranged marriage
Enemies to lovers
April 15, 2024
One of my favourite tropes is the arrange marriage and boy ohh boyy i love these characters i love seriously every character their families was sooo good i am sobbing right now because i love how accepting they were soo sweet to Harper and Alex 🥵❤️🔥😉 he is the DEFINITION of book boyfriend possesive sweet dreamy and soo soo sexyy🤣❤️❤️.
I love how their story goes they are emotional and loving and the steamy scenes were ooooffffff ❤️❤️❤️
I would love to have one like him in my life 🤣🤣❤️❤️ ohh these book boyfriends make me crazyyy
Ahh back to book i love how Jane wrote their emotions soo well i cried girlll🥺🥺❤️
Overall a really good read definitely recommend ❤️❤️
Thankyou for the ARC and this is my honest review ❤️
I love how their story goes they are emotional and loving and the steamy scenes were ooooffffff ❤️❤️❤️
I would love to have one like him in my life 🤣🤣❤️❤️ ohh these book boyfriends make me crazyyy
Ahh back to book i love how Jane wrote their emotions soo well i cried girlll🥺🥺❤️
Overall a really good read definitely recommend ❤️❤️
Thankyou for the ARC and this is my honest review ❤️
April 22, 2024
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Tropes:
- Arranged Marriage
- Enemies to Lovers
- Dubious Consent
- Dark Romance
- Mafia/Bratva
Review:
A spicy mafia romance book. The second in the Wicked Vows series.
Although i would say this book could be read as a standalone.
Aleksandr and Harper end up in an arranged marriage, at first you feel sorry for Harper as she gets put into a situation that she doesnt want to be in, while we all try and work out her secret for running away. This book has a wonderful story line and i love the respect Aleks has, even with the crazy amount of sexual tension between them. Aleksandr will melt your damn heart in this book, protecting his found family.
I love Jane's writing style and cannot wait to read the next installment of this series.
Tropes:
- Arranged Marriage
- Enemies to Lovers
- Dubious Consent
- Dark Romance
- Mafia/Bratva
Review:
A spicy mafia romance book. The second in the Wicked Vows series.
Although i would say this book could be read as a standalone.
Aleksandr and Harper end up in an arranged marriage, at first you feel sorry for Harper as she gets put into a situation that she doesnt want to be in, while we all try and work out her secret for running away. This book has a wonderful story line and i love the respect Aleks has, even with the crazy amount of sexual tension between them. Aleksandr will melt your damn heart in this book, protecting his found family.
I love Jane's writing style and cannot wait to read the next installment of this series.
May 16, 2024
Couldn’t get into this one.
H: Aleksandr Romanov
h: Harper Lee Bianchi
Even though the Romanov are supposed to be really big and strong they needed alliances and since the guy that helped him got out of jail as long as someone marries his sister as a payment which Mikhail agreed to. This story to me made no sense. We have Aleks who works in security, who could find ANYTHING AND EVERYTHING when it came to the Bianchi family YET didn't even search or anything. Yes they instantly felt a connection but something was off. She was R*ape and so in order for her to relax during their 1st time he pretty much got her drunk and high-Which I didn't agree. They met and 2 days later got married and then they felt a really strong connection, I wasn't feeling it. So I stopped at chapter 13 47%.
H: Aleksandr Romanov
h: Harper Lee Bianchi
Even though the Romanov are supposed to be really big and strong they needed alliances and since the guy that helped him got out of jail as long as someone marries his sister as a payment which Mikhail agreed to. This story to me made no sense. We have Aleks who works in security, who could find ANYTHING AND EVERYTHING when it came to the Bianchi family YET didn't even search or anything. Yes they instantly felt a connection but something was off. She was R*ape and so in order for her to relax during their 1st time he pretty much got her drunk and high-Which I didn't agree. They met and 2 days later got married and then they felt a really strong connection, I wasn't feeling it. So I stopped at chapter 13 47%.
April 15, 2024
Aleks & Harper
Sanctum might be my favorite of the series so far!
I loved seeing Harper come out of her shell after being controlled by her parents for so long. Aleks definitely was one of those MMCs who fell hard and I thought it was done really well!
Overall, I really enjoyed the storyline and how the characters from the first books (and from another series) were tied in! There were definitely some twists and turns I wasn't expecting, which made it even better!
Sanctum might be my favorite of the series so far!
I loved seeing Harper come out of her shell after being controlled by her parents for so long. Aleks definitely was one of those MMCs who fell hard and I thought it was done really well!
Overall, I really enjoyed the storyline and how the characters from the first books (and from another series) were tied in! There were definitely some twists and turns I wasn't expecting, which made it even better!
May 24, 2024
Could this series get any better?? Absolutely!! This book is phenomenal! 🙌🙌 Absolutely LOVE Aleks and Harper. ❤️❤️ They are one of my fav couples. Harper is SO strong and resilient.. and her snark! 🙌🔥🔥 Aleks is swoon worthy. I love the primal play in this one… even if it was minimal. Such an hot amazing story. I am SO excited book 3 comes out tomorrow.
5⭐️ 3🌶️
5⭐️ 3🌶️
June 30, 2024
She will get her vengeance!!
Aleksandr will do anything to strengthen his family even if that means marrying a woman he's never met. Harper's family is terrible to her and they just decided to marry her off to a stranger without even telling her first. Aleks knows Harper is keeping something from him but will he still want her when he finds out how many secrets she has??
Aleksandr will do anything to strengthen his family even if that means marrying a woman he's never met. Harper's family is terrible to her and they just decided to marry her off to a stranger without even telling her first. Aleks knows Harper is keeping something from him but will he still want her when he finds out how many secrets she has??
April 13, 2024
3.5 stars -- Steamy, arranged marriage with a possessive alpha male, quick-burn attraction, found family, and a revenge & justice plot.
******
When her family is in need of money, Harper is quickly handed off to the rival Bratva family and arranged to marry the brother of the Pakhan - Aleksandr. Treated horribly by her family, Harper isn't all too sad to be leaving them behind. But she also has other things that take top priority for her and marrying into the Bratva could ruin all her plans, or it could be the way to make everything better. Aleks, is just being a loyal to his Pakhan and brother by creating an alliance with the Italian mob family. But a spoiled, and weak wife isn't exactly his dream. But it doesn't take long until he realizes he might have completely misjudged his new, young wife. Soon Harper's secrets are revealed and their lust turns into love and then Aleks is doing whatever it takes to seek justice and revenge for the wrongs done against his wife in the past.
******
My Thoughts
I really wanted to absolutely love this book and I think I would have rated it a 4 or maybe even 5 starts if it didn't feel so rushed and a bit incomplete. I will say, I haven't read the first book yet but as the series says you can read as standalones, I don't think that really affected things much. I was able to easily understand who the other characters were and entering the setting wasn't difficult. I plan to go back and read book 1 soon so will definitely update this review if I was wrong, and me reading out of order was a problem.
Overall, this was a very quick read. I enjoyed the tropes - possessive & alpha male, beaten down fmc who finds her strength and power, "touch her & die", and found family. I also love the trope that comes from the secret Harper was hiding (attempting to avoid spoilers here). Where I was let down was the repetition of poor communication and assumptions (mainly from Aleks) and certain plot points feeling like they were briefly introduced then just forgotten about.
If you're looking for a quick and steamy romance featuring mafia families but with a plot less focussed on the mafia and more on revenge on behalf of the fmc - I still would recommend this book. You might feel differently than me and think it hits the perfect spot for you!
Notes
This is book two of the "wicked vows" series but is labeled as able to read as standalone. Some CW for emotional abuse, violence, and mention of past sexual assault on fmc.
Thank you to the author and Valentine PR for the opportunity to read an advanced copy. My honest review is provided independently.
******
When her family is in need of money, Harper is quickly handed off to the rival Bratva family and arranged to marry the brother of the Pakhan - Aleksandr. Treated horribly by her family, Harper isn't all too sad to be leaving them behind. But she also has other things that take top priority for her and marrying into the Bratva could ruin all her plans, or it could be the way to make everything better. Aleks, is just being a loyal to his Pakhan and brother by creating an alliance with the Italian mob family. But a spoiled, and weak wife isn't exactly his dream. But it doesn't take long until he realizes he might have completely misjudged his new, young wife. Soon Harper's secrets are revealed and their lust turns into love and then Aleks is doing whatever it takes to seek justice and revenge for the wrongs done against his wife in the past.
******
My Thoughts
I really wanted to absolutely love this book and I think I would have rated it a 4 or maybe even 5 starts if it didn't feel so rushed and a bit incomplete. I will say, I haven't read the first book yet but as the series says you can read as standalones, I don't think that really affected things much. I was able to easily understand who the other characters were and entering the setting wasn't difficult. I plan to go back and read book 1 soon so will definitely update this review if I was wrong, and me reading out of order was a problem.
Overall, this was a very quick read. I enjoyed the tropes - possessive & alpha male, beaten down fmc who finds her strength and power, "touch her & die", and found family. I also love the trope that comes from the secret Harper was hiding (attempting to avoid spoilers here). Where I was let down was the repetition of poor communication and assumptions (mainly from Aleks) and certain plot points feeling like they were briefly introduced then just forgotten about.
If you're looking for a quick and steamy romance featuring mafia families but with a plot less focussed on the mafia and more on revenge on behalf of the fmc - I still would recommend this book. You might feel differently than me and think it hits the perfect spot for you!
Notes
This is book two of the "wicked vows" series but is labeled as able to read as standalone. Some CW for emotional abuse, violence, and mention of past sexual assault on fmc.
Thank you to the author and Valentine PR for the opportunity to read an advanced copy. My honest review is provided independently.
April 8, 2024
Sanctum is an arranged marriage bratva book and is Aleksandr Romanov’s and Harper’s story. Forced to marry to bring together 2 families, Aleks and Harper don’t seem too thrilled. After their wedding night, the couple develop a strong bond with each other after Harper divulges a terrible secret from her past. Aleks will stop at nothing to rise above in the crime family and to make his new family with Harper happy.
Sanctum is a fabulous story from Jane Henry and has all the hotness you’d expect. A very enjoyable read . Highly recommended
Sanctum is a fabulous story from Jane Henry and has all the hotness you’d expect. A very enjoyable read . Highly recommended
April 10, 2024
Sanctum by Jane Henry is book Two in the Wicked Vows Series. This is the story of Harper and Aleksandr. Harper has secrets and hasn't been treated well by her family. So she tries to escape the marriage she has been 'sold off to' but it doesn't work. Aleksandr has to marry to further the mafia family. I so enjoyed this book. Ms. Henry is one of my favorite authors!
June 19, 2024
everything happened way too fast, and the conflicts were resolved very easily, but a good palette cleanser
May 8, 2024
Overall: 4.25 out of 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐.25
Spice/Heat Intensity: 3.75 out of 5 🌶️🌶️🌶️.75
Main Characters: Aleks & Harper
Nickname: Princess
Darkness: 1 out of 5 🖤
Type of book: MF, Duel 1st Person POV
Reading Order: Can be read as standalone has interconnected characters
Title: Sanctum - Wicked Vows
Series: Book 2
Epilogue: Yes
Ending Type: HEA
*OTT Possessive, dominant, fiercely loyal and protective H 🚩
*Eyes only for her
*Forced Marriage
*Touch her and unalive
*Who touched you
*No cheating or sharing
-Please check the TW/CW before reading! 18+
May 16, 2024
DNF mid
May 6, 2024
I can't even finish this book.
I'm a hundred pages in and can't believe what Im reading. He handcuffed her, gagged her, and blindfolded her ON THE FIRST DAY THAT THEY MET, and the next day, she just like, okay, let's make love and forget about everything else? Why? I mean, I know she has been raped, but after she trusted him with this, he's just, okay, you're ready to have my babies. Yeah, no shit. Sorry, definitely can't finish this book. Can't believe it has 4.06.
Okay, I gave the book another opportunity and went 200 pages. It's awful. I can't believe I read that long. It's so stupid. It's not even well written. I can't stand the characters. They are just empty and annoying. It has no hilo conductor, ni trama. Juro, no puedo creer que llegue tan lejos, deberia haberlo dejado despues de las primeras 10 paginas.
Definitivamente sin terminar, SIGO SIN CREER QUE ESTE RAITEADO TAN ALTO.
0,1⭐️
I'm a hundred pages in and can't believe what Im reading. He handcuffed her, gagged her, and blindfolded her ON THE FIRST DAY THAT THEY MET, and the next day, she just like, okay, let's make love and forget about everything else? Why? I mean, I know she has been raped, but after she trusted him with this, he's just, okay, you're ready to have my babies. Yeah, no shit. Sorry, definitely can't finish this book. Can't believe it has 4.06.
Okay, I gave the book another opportunity and went 200 pages. It's awful. I can't believe I read that long. It's so stupid. It's not even well written. I can't stand the characters. They are just empty and annoying. It has no hilo conductor, ni trama. Juro, no puedo creer que llegue tan lejos, deberia haberlo dejado despues de las primeras 10 paginas.
Definitivamente sin terminar, SIGO SIN CREER QUE ESTE RAITEADO TAN ALTO.
0,1⭐️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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