His Grip

by Mila Quinn

I should hate Viktor. I should fear him.
But every time he looks at me and touches me, I fall deeper into his control.

I married the most dangerous man in New York.

Viktor Ivanov is ruthless, calculating, and terrifyingly powerful.
He’s the Bratva’s-in-command—and now, he’s my husband.

It wasn’t love. It wasn’t a choice.
Our marriage was an arranged deal, sealed in blood and betrayal. My father sold me to him.

Viktor hides dark, deadly secrets—secrets that could destroy the Bratva empire.

Now, I’m caught in his web—a pawn in his ruthless game.
And Viktor Ivanov doesn’t lose.
He doesn’t let go. And the scariest part is... that I don't think I want him to.

His Grip is an intense, arranged marriage romance filled with obsession, passion, and danger. This dark mafia romance features a morally gray hero, a strong-willed heroine, and a seductive, twisted love story.

Genres: Dark, Smut, Romance

205 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 28, 2025

Reviews

[K-P · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not the easiest to follow…

The chemistry between the MCs, Sofia and Viktor is — PHEW!!
So good.

But, the story just seemed a little disjointed, jumping between situations and I was often back peddling or confused.
I also think there were some game changing details missed or skimmed over, and there are parts just feel unfinished.

This wasn’t all bad & has such potential, I just couldn’t get it flowing.

[Luna Lully · Rating 2 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️🌶️ 🌶️

I’m not saying a didn’t enjoy it but there were many flaws in the storyline but in the script most of all. The characters were underdeveloped so we couldn’t get a good background and understanding, there is development in terms of characters personalities but it isn’t satisfying. Sofia is portrayed as a rebel, strong-willed and sassy character but then as she gets entangled more with Viktor it feels like in some situations she becomes frail, desperate and fragile, instead I would have expected more sassiness from her. Viktor, on the other hand, is cold and ruthless ( from the initial descriptions of Sofia about him) but then we don’t see much about these traits a part from very clear cliches of any mafia character.

The dialogue was decent, and it is saying a lot already. The repetitive phrases used in very similar scenes ( intimate ones especially) drove me crazy to the point I thought there was an error in repetition, and then realised it wasn’t and irritated me that I nearly gave up continuing the book. Viktor always asking Sofia they same question before intercourse drove me mad, how many times are we going to relive the same scene? Vocabulary! We need more vocabulary and immagination.

Additionally, every time Sofia and Viktor kissed or were about to engage is some sexiness it felt like it was described as their first time coming together, even after 10 times! Why so much emphasis on how much they wanted to kiss since the first time they met?!? Com’on!

Also, I got a hint of ‘365 Days’ - probably there was some inspiration because some phrases, scenes description and character building felt very similar.

The ending? Not fulfilling at all. Very cheesy and repetive that didn’t give anything more to the story. Lets talk about the ‘i Love You’s’ we never read! I get it is a predictable ending but there are creative and sexy ways to write such scenes, but in this case she just decided ‘ not gonna happen’. Felt underwhelming.

Overall, the beginning really got me intrigued even though felt super fast-paced. Day 1- Meet, Kiss and love at first sight. Day 2- promised in marriage to this Mafia king. Day 3 - wedding 🤦🏼‍♀️
No chance to breathe in the story that it is basically all done in 3 chapters. Then the rest of the book is basically a very questionable sub-plot and mostly all sexual teasing, repetitive sex scenes and arguments that turn into not greatly written smut.

Concluding, it was a light smutty read but in a general perspective not satisfying enough given the poor writing, lack of immaginarion, continuos repetitivness, weak plot, cheesy dialogue and expected clichès. I don’t know if I would recommend it honestly.

[Sabrina Ellenwood · Rating 2 out of 5]

This has the potential to be a great book. The chemistry between Viktor and Sofia is off the charts. However, there were so many inconsistencies. I was confused many times while reading. It seemed as though each chapter would jump to a different part with no context. It lacks depth on backstories and important parts in the book. Sofia is doing something to betray Viktor, but what is it? We read that he finds her notebook, but we never really know what Sofia was writing. What was in the locked room that she wasn't allowed in? There are many times when events take place that lack important information. Viktor feels betrayed by Sofia multiple times throughout the book. Towards the end, there is a fight that lasts not even five pages, and we never are informed what happens to the villain. One second he is fighting Alexei, then the next it's him and Sofia in an intimate scene. When did we learn that Sofia was collecting information on Alexei, there is no scene that ever fully discloses this information. It has the making of a great book, however, to truly be able to understand what is all taking place we need more depth and information.

[Trina Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just too Hot!!! It was a steamy page turner and the suspense was so insane and intense. I was on the verge of my seat and I couldn't even put it down. It was addicted. Viktor want his new wife to do what he says. And Sofia was her own woman and she is so fiesty. Sofia and Viktor the chemistry between them was captivating and spicy as they couldn't even fight the temptation any longer. The physical attraction was sizzling and mind blowing of danger and chaos.
I highly recommend this book and you won't be disappointed. I received advance copy of this book via Bookfunnel and am voluntarily leaving my honest review. Trina Jones

[GKP2460 · Rating 5 out of 5]

His Grip is Sofia Mikhailov and Viktor Ivanovs story. Their story is very intense, compelling, intriguing and dramatic. It's filled with lies, betrayals, action and danger. Viktor is the epitome of a powerful, possessive, obsessive, domineering man. Sofia is a FIERCE, take no prisoners kind of woman and the perfect partner for Viktor. She challenges him, makes him feel and makes him question things he thought he was certain of. This is my first read by this author and I'm anxious to see more from her.

[Anastasia Ferguson · Rating 3 out of 5]

Sofia and Viktor had chemisty galore! Sofia was forced by her father to marry Viktor, Viktor didn't want to be married he just wanted his wife to be submissive to him and do as he said and wanted. This story was ok, there were chapters that seemed to jump around alot. One chapter would end one way and the next chapter it was a totally different time, setting or even plot of the story (not really flash backs or leap forwards) but flow was a little different than I am used to reading. Still enjoyed the book and will read more from Mila Quinn.

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an intense dark romance with a dominant, controlled, powerful, and very Alpha MMC, Viktor. Sofia, his unwilling bride, had no intention of being his submissive anything, though it was funny how frequently her body forgot that. The tension in the story was palpable and always an undercurrent. Manipulation, backstabbing, and lies were only some of the dark trenches waiting around the twisted corners. Would the trials they face bring them closer or shatter their fragile bond?

I voluntarily reviewed a gift copy of this book. Happy Reading Y'all 📚

[Avelon Author · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this quick read, even thought it was a bit jumpy and had some questions. However, the general plot and storyline is great. It is dark as can be expected. Thé MMC is abusive in power play, dominance and never showing weakness. Thé FMC wanted out of crime family life, but in an arranged marriage she not only gets pulled in deeper and trapped, but also end up in a complicated push/pull slow burn situationship, all while being a pawn in other games, or is she merely thé pretty distraction put in play by men craving power?

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

His Grip is the 1st book I've read by Mila Quinn. I'll be on the lookout for more.

I enjoyed the book, quick read. The story is about Viktor and Sofia. Viktor is the Bratva's in command, and Sofia was sold to him by her father.
It is an arrangement marriage deal, and neither wanted it. Viktor wanted a submissive wife, and that is not Sofia.
The story is full of twists and secrets, and I am looking forward to reading the next book.

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the very first book I have read by Mila and HOLY cow is it a heart stopping very good book to read. Viktor and Sofia are SPICY HOT but mind blowing in this book. If you enjoy reading dark mafia romance books and are looking for a new author or just a new book to devour then Mila has written the most amazing book screaming for you to read. Trust me this is a very good suspense book that is hard to put down. I had this book read in a day. :)

[L KQ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Suspenseful Marriage

Viktor and Sofia are arranged to be married, sold and betrayed by her father to be a submissive wife. Twists and turns, bring these two closer to danger and suspense as secrets begin to unfold. While the story itself was intriguing the flow felt inconsistent at times. However, the overall premise was entertaining and spicy.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kelly Gregory · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a good read overall, i loved the OTT possessive alpha Viktor, his connection and chemistry with Sofia was so good! I found the story jumped around a bit with no explanation and there were also some inconsistencies to the plot, but the love story itself was 5 star! with some changes to the plot to link it together better and more detail added would elevate this to a 5 star read easily.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Shavonne Belford · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a gripping and dramatic story of a headstrong woman and the ruthless bratva leader chose to marry her a story of secrets, deception, betrayal and searing passion i couldn’t put this book down Sofia and Viktor power struggle and thoughts on how they thought their marriage would be before long buried secrets threatened to tear them apart

[Jenni · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sofia could hold her own in her fathers criminal world and one encounter with Viktor sparks something else within her. But when she learns her father has given her to Viktor to pay off his debts, and she enters a realm of the unknown, and becomes a pawn in bigger games, with secrets twists and more to come! Well written engaging dark themes and more!

[Lucia · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a quick read!
Sofia and Viktor are both headstrong. She proved to be more than just a pawn in your typical Mafia romance books. She's a fighter and is a great match for Viktor.
Upon meeting, they couldn't ignore each other. One thing led to another, and then their marriage is arranged. Read the book to see what happens next!

[Merry Jelks-Emmanuel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Viktor met his match when he connects with Sophie. Thanks to her father she is joined to him and their thrilling path begins and it is filled with twists and turns that kept me turning the pages and cheering this couple on to getting their turn for happiness.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Nickie Sale · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sofia a mafia princess is "sold" into an arranged marriage by her father in order to pay off a debt. Viktor whats nothing less than a submissive wife who will do whatever he wants without question.

This book delivers classic mafia themes, an arranged/forced marriage, steamy scenes, and action, all while throwing in a few twists to keep readers guessing.

[Marsha · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a story that is well-written and captivating. The main characters Nikolai and Katrina are great together. The book contains struggles, twists and turns, emotions and wonderful chemistry between the two main characters. It is a page-turner.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Yuki · Rating 3 out of 5]

The plot overall was good but there was too much inconsistency with character development. The book also wasn't what I would consider dark romance, maybe thriller but there wasn't much in the terms of darkness.

[Sammye · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first book in the Dark Bratva Chronicles series. It’s a dark, arranged marriage, enemies to lovers romance. It full of drama, twists and turns. I enjoyed Viktor and Sofia’s steamy story.

[Ilene G> · Rating 2 out of 5]

Did not like.

A weak plot and repetitive dialogue made this story disappointing. Sofia is called rebellious and difficult but becomes weak around Viktor. Viktor is cold and treats Sofia like a possession most of the time.

[Diana Page · Rating 4 out of 5]

Viktor and Sofia’s story is a mash up of Enemies to lovers, forced proximity and mafia princess. So a lot of balls juggling and it was done fairly well. Mika Quinn always gives us that bit of darkness with the sexual tension between her characters and she doesn’t disappoint this time. My only complaint is it dragged a tiny bit in the middle, as the back and forth between Sofia and Victor played out . I definitely will be reading more books by this author. 4✨’s.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Melissa Keifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book the family drama the personal drama the relationship drama it's all there and I can't wait to see more in the next book

[Lisa · Rating 1 out of 5]

Stopped at 69%
She wore the pants and for a boss he had no balls.

[Nate · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed his grip which was Viktor and Sophia’s story. It was an intriguing read. This was a new author, for me. I got a copy of the book and voluntarily leaving this review.

[Vi · Rating 2 out of 5]

Well he's a whiney little bitch

[Cheryl addie · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG loved it can't wait till I can get more of the series

[Kristian Swift · Rating 4 out of 5]

this is the first book by this author I have read and I thoroughly enjoyed it
The story flowed didn't feel rushed was a medium burn 4 star read for me