Book Review: Painted Scars: An Enemies to Lovers Mafia Romance by Neva Altaj
From the first moment I stumbled upon Painted Scars, I was captivated—not only by its intriguing enemies-to-lovers premise but also by its unique twist: a mafia romance featuring a disabled hero in a wheelchair. Neva Altaj’s storytelling takes you right into the heart of the Russian Bratva, where danger and love intertwine, making for a compelling narrative that had me hooked from the very first page.
Captivating Characters
Nina is a breath of fresh air—strong, witty, and spunky—yet she’s also haunted by her past. Marrying Roman, a cold-blooded killer and the Pakhan of the Bratva, is no fairy tale. Instead, it’s a carefully orchestrated deal that unfolds with emotional intensity. The chemistry between Nina and Roman is palpable, highlighted by their witty banter and moments of genuine vulnerability that tug at your heartstrings. I found myself rooting for them both, cheering for their love to blossom amid deception and dangerous alliances.
Roman Sharov, with his gruff exterior and hidden depths, is a character you can’t help but feel for. His struggle with his disability and the weight of his responsibilities added an unexpected layer of complexity to the story. Altaj crafts his character with care, portraying his internal conflicts in a way that feels real and relatable. A scene that really struck me was when he observes Nina dealing with her flashbacks—his protective nature shines through, showcasing a softer side that contrasts beautifully with his fierce persona.
Writing Style and Pacing
Neva Altaj’s writing style is straightforward yet vivid, effectively marrying humor and suspense. The pacing of the story is lively, perfectly balancing the romance with the underlying tension of the mafia world’s dangers. I appreciated how Altaj kept the narrative tight; despite the book’s relatively short length (about 240 pages), every scene felt purposeful and engaging.
One memorable moment that brought a smile to my face was when Nina humorously reflects on her role as a "trophy wife" while plotting her escape. This balance of light-heartedness amidst heavy themes makes the book memorable. As one reviewer noted, there’s a delightful charm to Nina that elevates the narrative—her antics, like the arrival of fourteen random lamps and a dog, are just a couple of the humorous highlights sprinkled throughout the book.
Who Will Love This Book?
Painted Scars is perfect for readers who enjoy steamy romances with emotional depth. If you’re looking for a story that captures the intricacies of love against a backdrop of danger and intrigue—especially within the mafia romance genre—this book is for you. It’s also an excellent starting point for anyone new to the genre, making it both accessible and engaging.
As I closed the pages on Nina and Roman’s captivating tale, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of warmth. Their journey, while marked by challenges and conflicts, ultimately leads to a heartwarming resolution. Altaj skillfully assures us that love can indeed flourish in the darkest of circumstances. Painted Scars may just be the beginning of my journey into the Perfectly Imperfect series, and I can’t wait to delve deeper into the interconnected lives of these fascinating characters.
You can find Painted Scars: An Enemies To Lovers Mafia Romance (Perfectly Imperfect Book 1) here >>