Four Stars
I didn’t know I needed a semi-dark mafia romance set in New Orleans in my life, but luckily, Rhenna Morgan knew! HIS TO DEFEND was a BLAST to read! The first book in a new series, the book follows a Russian mafia boss hero and he helps the single mom/local NOLA darling after she loses her job. I listened to the audiobook and could barely put the book down!
First of all, the audiobook narration was HOT. The narrator performed the Russian and New Orleans accents and made the listening experience extra fun. In addition, I’ve read many books like this, but the plot felt fresh and fun. The hero, Sergei, was dark, and definitely dealt with the underbelly of mafia life, but he didn’t stifle our heroine Evette. The undercurrent of respect and love between the hero and heroine was apparent throughout.
This story was a nice balance between romance, suspense, and drama. I was rooting for our single mom heroine, and loving the Cinderella feel of the whole story. Who doesn’t love a story where the heroine is fun and strong and finds a rich and sexy hero who sweeps her off her feet? It was so fun!
I did think the plot lulled a little bit in the middle, and the heroine’s son was hard to connect with. The problems with his school friends was a noticeable dangling plotline.
Overall, I think Rhenna Morgan did a great job laying out a new series. I’m way into these Russian mafia bosses with hearts of gold and I can’t wait to get started on book two!
**I received an ARC of this book in order to provide an honest review**
Romance Reader 