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Marchiano Mafia #2
Mafia And Angel
She wasn’t going to fall for a sinner. Because you can’t catch feelings for a bad guy…can you?
Anni
He’s a damaged soul who’s struggling to bring up two small children.
But he’s also the devil dressed in Brioni and black…whose darkness dims the bright lights of the city he rules.
I’ve been raised in the shadowy underbelly of New York’s criminal world.
Yet nothing could have prepared me for Lorenzo Marchiano.
Although he’s ten years older, I’m made to get engaged to him as punishment after an incident…
He says that I’ve got homicidal tendencies and that I’m a murderess wannabe.
But I say that’s the least of his worries as I come into his life, grinding his grumpy rules into beautiful ashes beneath my feet.
It’s clear that Lorenzo thinks he can tame me.
That he expects to use me as his unpaid nanny and someone to warm his bed…
He may be insanely handsome, but this arrogant man needs to realize I’ll bow to no one.
And I’ve certainly no intention of ever letting him into my heart.
Tropes include single dad, enemies to lovers, grumpy/sunshine, age gap, and arranged marriage. The book features a jealous and possessive hero, a sassy heroine, steam, banter, chemistry, passion, and angst.
A full length, standalone novel within the interconnecting Marchiano Mafia Series, with a HEA, no cheating, and no cliffhanger.
Anni
He’s a damaged soul who’s struggling to bring up two small children.
But he’s also the devil dressed in Brioni and black…whose darkness dims the bright lights of the city he rules.
I’ve been raised in the shadowy underbelly of New York’s criminal world.
Yet nothing could have prepared me for Lorenzo Marchiano.
Although he’s ten years older, I’m made to get engaged to him as punishment after an incident…
He says that I’ve got homicidal tendencies and that I’m a murderess wannabe.
But I say that’s the least of his worries as I come into his life, grinding his grumpy rules into beautiful ashes beneath my feet.
It’s clear that Lorenzo thinks he can tame me.
That he expects to use me as his unpaid nanny and someone to warm his bed…
He may be insanely handsome, but this arrogant man needs to realize I’ll bow to no one.
And I’ve certainly no intention of ever letting him into my heart.
Tropes include single dad, enemies to lovers, grumpy/sunshine, age gap, and arranged marriage. The book features a jealous and possessive hero, a sassy heroine, steam, banter, chemistry, passion, and angst.
A full length, standalone novel within the interconnecting Marchiano Mafia Series, with a HEA, no cheating, and no cliffhanger.
328 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 18, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 227 reviews
June 20, 2023
This is the first book i have read where the MMC is just awful he wasnt likable at all. And it was like the author realised that, so the (never ending) epilogue she tried to make us like him, but it came off just cringe, and i couldn't eye roll more.
Sorry, it's a little too late there.
He was awful to the FMC and a bad father who was happy to ignore his kids' regression and depression since their mums death. (I really thought there was more to the dress Clara insisted on wearing also.. like it was the last thing her mum gave her or it was her mums favourite.. but nope, we gave up on that whole story line half way through)
Also, did this author forget their own story line. Anni moved to the guest room after she looked into the mums therapy, and Lorenzo ofcourse yelled at her and said terrible things. But then a few chapters later, the author said she moved their when they argued after the cat con.. huh???? After the cat con, he finally told her about his wife, who passed.
I wanted to like this as i like mafia romances, but the way the men kept talking about controlling and making the wife submissive and virgin sacrifices 😒 was terrible and uncomfortable.
And the over use of "loins", "seed" and "spanking" was just ewww. I ended up skimming the smut scenes as they were awful.
There was also NO drama.. I was expecting the FMC to be taken, tortured a little the usual to a good mafia story where he finally realises he likes her. I thought she would be taken protecting the kids, and Clara was going to yell at her dad "Dadda" but nope, they found the snitch. Spoke to him and shot him done and dusted. And the mother apparently didn't care about her son dying and attending his funeral... ok?!
Could have cut some smut and added some drama and depth and an extremely shorter epilogue with an actual purpose it was just filler that felt like each part was a re write.. Gees, it was giving lord of the Rings a run for its money.
Don't think I'll read any more from this author.
Sorry, it's a little too late there.
He was awful to the FMC and a bad father who was happy to ignore his kids' regression and depression since their mums death. (I really thought there was more to the dress Clara insisted on wearing also.. like it was the last thing her mum gave her or it was her mums favourite.. but nope, we gave up on that whole story line half way through)
Also, did this author forget their own story line. Anni moved to the guest room after she looked into the mums therapy, and Lorenzo ofcourse yelled at her and said terrible things. But then a few chapters later, the author said she moved their when they argued after the cat con.. huh???? After the cat con, he finally told her about his wife, who passed.
I wanted to like this as i like mafia romances, but the way the men kept talking about controlling and making the wife submissive and virgin sacrifices 😒 was terrible and uncomfortable.
And the over use of "loins", "seed" and "spanking" was just ewww. I ended up skimming the smut scenes as they were awful.
There was also NO drama.. I was expecting the FMC to be taken, tortured a little the usual to a good mafia story where he finally realises he likes her. I thought she would be taken protecting the kids, and Clara was going to yell at her dad "Dadda" but nope, they found the snitch. Spoke to him and shot him done and dusted. And the mother apparently didn't care about her son dying and attending his funeral... ok?!
Could have cut some smut and added some drama and depth and an extremely shorter epilogue with an actual purpose it was just filler that felt like each part was a re write.. Gees, it was giving lord of the Rings a run for its money.
Don't think I'll read any more from this author.
March 4, 2023
(Thank you Peachy Keen and the author Isa Oliver for the eARC in exchange for a spoiler free review)
(Please check trigger warnings and author’s note before reading.)
I’ve not read this author’s work before so this is the first. The author’s note about the next book got me excited though.
Arranged marriages in mafia seem to be a hit or a miss for me. This book was an in-between with some repeated themes and new plotlines but I wasn’t entirely happy with the plot development. It seemed to go in circles without anything being solid.
I also didn’t relate to the chemistry between Anni and Lorenzo. Lorenzo seemed to be full of himself whereas Anni did not have the maturity to her.
Maybe the next book would be better.
Marchiano Mafia reviews
Mafia and Captive
Mafia and Angel - 2 ⭐
(Please check trigger warnings and author’s note before reading.)
I’ve not read this author’s work before so this is the first. The author’s note about the next book got me excited though.
Arranged marriages in mafia seem to be a hit or a miss for me. This book was an in-between with some repeated themes and new plotlines but I wasn’t entirely happy with the plot development. It seemed to go in circles without anything being solid.
I also didn’t relate to the chemistry between Anni and Lorenzo. Lorenzo seemed to be full of himself whereas Anni did not have the maturity to her.
Maybe the next book would be better.
Marchiano Mafia reviews
Mafia and Captive
Mafia and Angel - 2 ⭐
May 4, 2023
Well this was something. I enjoyed some parts but some words and the writing style were just extremely cringe. But I finished it, so it wasn't unreadable. Haha!
3 stars
3 on the spice scale
3 stars
3 on the spice scale
October 29, 2023
This author can't write. The fact that they didn't even notice such basic mistakes is really embarrassing. Just the grammar issues alone are ridiculous, and the fact that the author doesn't know that's she's making such basic mistakes... I think a lot of time people who want to be writers get ahead of themselves and don't put the effort in to actually become solid writers. This needed a lot of work and attention before it should've been published.
August 14, 2023
he’s a piece of shit. she’s annoying.
October 19, 2023
Literally the same book as Cora Reilly's Sweet temptation, but the writing is worse. I DNFed around 20%.
December 19, 2023
Saw this on TikTok and gave it a shot! Parts of this book were great! There were some funny, some heart warming and some spicy scenes that knocked it by out of the park. However I felt this book was a bit long winded and sometimes …oftentimes cringy. Loved the cat and the cat con costumes! 🐱 and that the FFC straight shoots the MMC for being a dick to her cat! 🤣🥹😂 Then she’s forced to marry him so her mom brings her the cat!
May 7, 2023
Lorenzo is a widower, struggling to raise his two young children and needs a new wife, he is arranged to marry Anni for an alliance between families. The plot sounded good and I was excited to read this book, unfortunately it didn't work for me.
Lorenzo was possessive and expected Anni to be nothing more than a nanny that warm his bed and not to have ideas or a say in anything. Anni was very childish and immature, she is a twenty year old Mafia princess but she didn't seemed to realize that she had married a dangerous man with many enemies and had no regards for her safety. Lorenzo was very mean to her, I did not like how he treated her for almost the whole book, he only change in the end. I don't think that these two characters were a good match, I couldn't see a connection between them and their love felt unbelievable.
Lorenzo was possessive and expected Anni to be nothing more than a nanny that warm his bed and not to have ideas or a say in anything. Anni was very childish and immature, she is a twenty year old Mafia princess but she didn't seemed to realize that she had married a dangerous man with many enemies and had no regards for her safety. Lorenzo was very mean to her, I did not like how he treated her for almost the whole book, he only change in the end. I don't think that these two characters were a good match, I couldn't see a connection between them and their love felt unbelievable.
October 16, 2023
I love you Ma Veneti, that’s the only thing I liked from the book.
January 20, 2024
Ok so first this book was good it was I liked it it’s why i gave it 3 stars it’s mafia arranged marriage I love that trope so I obviously liked this.second I didn’t like it 5 stars for a couple reason them being that this book was the exact same thing to another book which was sweet temptation by Cora Reilly that book is one of my top favorites love that book but this is ridiculous bc it was the exact same thing that’s coping third I HATE that he accused her of being the one to leak information and she easily forgot that like he didn’t grovel at all and I LIVE for the groveling so I was definitely disappointed but other then that it was an alright read
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 2, 2024
40% of the time i was just cringing.
He got some kind of kitten fetish even though he hates cats. She is a part time furry without knowing it.
Her side of the family is literally playing lovely-dovley-mafia.
Bro is trying so hard to be the alpha 😞 but everything is a weakness for him.
I don’t know how they fell in love with all of the mistrust he has in her.
He literally sees her as a child.
He got some kind of kitten fetish even though he hates cats. She is a part time furry without knowing it.
Her side of the family is literally playing lovely-dovley-mafia.
Bro is trying so hard to be the alpha 😞 but everything is a weakness for him.
I don’t know how they fell in love with all of the mistrust he has in her.
He literally sees her as a child.
October 12, 2023
hmmm?
Felt wildly too close to Sweet Temptation by Cora Reily that I was constantly flipping and comparing both books with one another there is WAY too many comparisons that make it feel plagiarized. Between the kids, the previous wife’s suicide with just a little bit of a difference, and the relationship between the couple.
Felt wildly too close to Sweet Temptation by Cora Reily that I was constantly flipping and comparing both books with one another there is WAY too many comparisons that make it feel plagiarized. Between the kids, the previous wife’s suicide with just a little bit of a difference, and the relationship between the couple.
January 19, 2023
Mafia Angel
Thank you for this arc !
This book was arranged marriage, mafia single dad, enemies to lovers book. I loved the plot and story line. Some parts were funny 😆 I enjoyed this book
Thank you for this arc !
This book was arranged marriage, mafia single dad, enemies to lovers book. I loved the plot and story line. Some parts were funny 😆 I enjoyed this book
January 24, 2024
so it's basically Cora Reilly's Sweet Temptation but in different font...
January 20, 2023
(I received an ARC for this book)
Trigger Warnings include:
Mafia violence, suicide, depression, postnatal depression, murder, death
You’re greeted by a family tree with mafia rankings, and it made it feel daunting before I even started reading. But at least I knew I was walking into chaos! Because oh MAN did I! First, Anni nearly kills someone, and then we’re quickly tossed into an arranged marriage. Anni wants nothing more than to use her smarts, but now she’s playing wife, and mom. Lorenzo had no intentions of remarrying, but it’s his duty. And nothing comes between Lorenzo and his place in line. At times, Anni was a little too immature and childish for me. I found that I was reminding myself that she was a mafia princess, and a consenting adult. She was the most overprotected mafia princess I had ever read. She was so disconnected and unaware. She also had no discipline whatsoever, and it irked the heck outta me! Her family, specifically her mother, drove me crazy too. Anni was meant to make Lorenzo’s life easier, and she did everything but! This was a terrible situation for both of them. And neither of them stopped for a second to consider what the other needed. When Lorenzo started to have feelings to her, it felt odd because nothing else had changed between them. 90% of the issues between them would have easily been solved if they had actually communicated. I laughed at parts that weren’t meant to be funny, but it was just so ridiculous. I will say, though, I enjoyed this approach to a mafia romance. Lorenzo wasn’t at the top of the food chain. And Anni was so disconnected from the life, while also being neck deep involved with her own family’s involvement. I’m torn between three and four stars. While there was a whole lot that I did enjoy, there was just as much that I didn’t.
kitten: 15
good girl: 11
My Favorite Quotes:
• “When you’re naked, whether in the shower or under me in bed, I’ll still expect you to be wearing that ring.”
• “Keep your eyes open. I’ll stop if you close them.”
• “This is what you taste like. And it’s a taste I’m going to want every single day now.”
8/10 Dirty Birdy
7/10 Age Gap
8/10 Arranged Marriage
5/10 Dark Romance
5/10 Enemies to Lovers
7/10 Forced Proximity
9/10 Mafia Romance
Trigger Warnings include:
Mafia violence, suicide, depression, postnatal depression, murder, death
You’re greeted by a family tree with mafia rankings, and it made it feel daunting before I even started reading. But at least I knew I was walking into chaos! Because oh MAN did I! First, Anni nearly kills someone, and then we’re quickly tossed into an arranged marriage. Anni wants nothing more than to use her smarts, but now she’s playing wife, and mom. Lorenzo had no intentions of remarrying, but it’s his duty. And nothing comes between Lorenzo and his place in line. At times, Anni was a little too immature and childish for me. I found that I was reminding myself that she was a mafia princess, and a consenting adult. She was the most overprotected mafia princess I had ever read. She was so disconnected and unaware. She also had no discipline whatsoever, and it irked the heck outta me! Her family, specifically her mother, drove me crazy too. Anni was meant to make Lorenzo’s life easier, and she did everything but! This was a terrible situation for both of them. And neither of them stopped for a second to consider what the other needed. When Lorenzo started to have feelings to her, it felt odd because nothing else had changed between them. 90% of the issues between them would have easily been solved if they had actually communicated. I laughed at parts that weren’t meant to be funny, but it was just so ridiculous. I will say, though, I enjoyed this approach to a mafia romance. Lorenzo wasn’t at the top of the food chain. And Anni was so disconnected from the life, while also being neck deep involved with her own family’s involvement. I’m torn between three and four stars. While there was a whole lot that I did enjoy, there was just as much that I didn’t.
kitten: 15
good girl: 11
My Favorite Quotes:
• “When you’re naked, whether in the shower or under me in bed, I’ll still expect you to be wearing that ring.”
• “Keep your eyes open. I’ll stop if you close them.”
• “This is what you taste like. And it’s a taste I’m going to want every single day now.”
8/10 Dirty Birdy
7/10 Age Gap
8/10 Arranged Marriage
5/10 Dark Romance
5/10 Enemies to Lovers
7/10 Forced Proximity
9/10 Mafia Romance
November 9, 2023
This book was so bad. I don't even know where to begin. Firstly the MC has no redeeming qualities. AT ALL. I've never disliked a male character as I did right now. After reading this atrocity I need to go bleach my brain.
Fyi the the main female character is weak asf, and keeps giving into the MC, I had such I hopes for her from chapter one. Personally I was even rooted for her and the MC's brother to get together. He seems like the better choice. Even though he did what he did. Knowing that I still think the brother is a better choice than the MC. I don't what male figures this author looked up to write about Lorenzo, but they as Anni said, need therapy
Fyi the the main female character is weak asf, and keeps giving into the MC, I had such I hopes for her from chapter one. Personally I was even rooted for her and the MC's brother to get together. He seems like the better choice. Even though he did what he did. Knowing that I still think the brother is a better choice than the MC. I don't what male figures this author looked up to write about Lorenzo, but they as Anni said, need therapy
July 3, 2023
Don’t let the happy ending fool you, Thai book was ok. The way he was to her at the beginning really pissed me off cause like it wasn’t even enemies to lovers vibes it was more Colleen hoover abusive vibes. But I guess it did get better. The book was really good however in the way I think it’s takes on a much more realistic view of what a nadie wife would be in reality. But is that why u read mafia romance?? NO. But over all it wasn’t to bad
January 19, 2023
The blurb has potential but the story didn't. H felt like a narcissist. It was all about him all the time and h felt like she doesn't even exist. Zero chemistry between the leads. It's a decent plotline but needs more work on character development.
September 20, 2023
I am too emotionally drained and exhausted to state everything that is wrong with this book, but I can sum it up in Nothing is right .
I've never regretted reading a book more.
I've never regretted reading a book more.
January 15, 2023
I received an ARC for an honest review
This book comes with sensitive content and trigger warnings, please head the note from the author
When Anni first meets Lorenzo during a meeting with her father, they don’t exactly get off on the right foot, and when a proposal of marriage is put forward to solidify there respective businesses, there contract binding, Anni finds ways to avoid following through but to no avail.
Anni’s childish ways set Lorenzo’s teeth on edge, he is second guessing himself and his desire to re-marry, but he knows what he must do to show unity but also provide a stable and loving home for his two children.
After they are wed, Anni moves to Chicago, and she is in for a big culture shock. Consumed with work, Lorenzo leaves Anni to her own devices. Thrust into a role that she is not prepared for, she finds it challenging to acclimate to Lorenzo’s stringent ways.
Anni is her own person, she does not like being held back, from being told what she can and can’t do, she pushes limits and boundaries much to Lorenzo’s frustrations. Anni is doing her best to balance her studies, life and be an instant mom to Clara and Clemente, as she is making inroads she hits a lot of brick walls on all fronts.
But there is one thing that Lorenzo wants from Anni and it is her submission to him, and when she gives herself to him freely, she gives herself wholeheartedly, her submission is his undoing, claiming her innocence in a night of unbridled passion.
But something is amiss, there is a traitor in there midst, and Lorenzo believes it to be Anni, not giving her a chance to explain, he shuts her out. Anni’s mind is reeling, having put herself in situations that have had someone help her to get out of, that it begins to click, and when she shares her concerns with Lorenzo, that niggling feeling intensifies when he learns of his brother’s betrayal.
That poignant moment when Anni and Lorenzo declare there love for one another, that they come together on even ground, as husband and wife and parents to Clara and Clemente. Anni and Lorenzo’s relationship wasn’t all sunshine and daisies, but it makes it all the more worth it when Lorenzo acknowledges what she has done for both Clara and Clemente, but also for him, to help them deal with their grief and heal from the pain that they have endured with the loss of his first wife and there mother.
This book has it all d/s themes, praise kinks, grumpy yet possessive dominant alpha male, a strong sassy female who gives as good as she gets, complex family and friend dynamics, murder, madness, mayhem, revenge, vengeance, violence, deception, adrenaline seeking suspense, jealousy, twists, turns, truths and betrayal.
This story is told from dual POV, it will take you on a wild ride, having you turn page after page, this book had me from the beginning to the end. Reading this story, it enables the readers to really connect with the characters, and as the story continues to unfold the readers see the development and growth from the characters singularly and together. The author definitely knows how to write and I’ll be coming back for more.
And those s*x scenes, including those BDSM elements were steamy, yet sensual, dirty, hot, intense, physical, provocative, it had all the angry angst, hate, jealousy, pleasure and passion one would expect when Lorenzo shows his wife who he really is, taking him for all that he is, darkness and all. For he takes what he wants without consequence, giving Anni the pain and pleasure she deserve, his possessive and obsessive need for control and dominance, it was off the charts and had all of the feels.
Cannot believe that this is the end of there story, but all good stories must come to and end, they got there happily ever after, it also proves that Lorenzo is no short of being possessive, wicked and depraved, showing Anni who’s clearly in charge and who owns her heart, mind and body, it was bittersweet and oh so perfect, and one very well deserved for them all.
Highly recommend this book and author!
This book comes with sensitive content and trigger warnings, please head the note from the author
When Anni first meets Lorenzo during a meeting with her father, they don’t exactly get off on the right foot, and when a proposal of marriage is put forward to solidify there respective businesses, there contract binding, Anni finds ways to avoid following through but to no avail.
Anni’s childish ways set Lorenzo’s teeth on edge, he is second guessing himself and his desire to re-marry, but he knows what he must do to show unity but also provide a stable and loving home for his two children.
After they are wed, Anni moves to Chicago, and she is in for a big culture shock. Consumed with work, Lorenzo leaves Anni to her own devices. Thrust into a role that she is not prepared for, she finds it challenging to acclimate to Lorenzo’s stringent ways.
Anni is her own person, she does not like being held back, from being told what she can and can’t do, she pushes limits and boundaries much to Lorenzo’s frustrations. Anni is doing her best to balance her studies, life and be an instant mom to Clara and Clemente, as she is making inroads she hits a lot of brick walls on all fronts.
But there is one thing that Lorenzo wants from Anni and it is her submission to him, and when she gives herself to him freely, she gives herself wholeheartedly, her submission is his undoing, claiming her innocence in a night of unbridled passion.
But something is amiss, there is a traitor in there midst, and Lorenzo believes it to be Anni, not giving her a chance to explain, he shuts her out. Anni’s mind is reeling, having put herself in situations that have had someone help her to get out of, that it begins to click, and when she shares her concerns with Lorenzo, that niggling feeling intensifies when he learns of his brother’s betrayal.
That poignant moment when Anni and Lorenzo declare there love for one another, that they come together on even ground, as husband and wife and parents to Clara and Clemente. Anni and Lorenzo’s relationship wasn’t all sunshine and daisies, but it makes it all the more worth it when Lorenzo acknowledges what she has done for both Clara and Clemente, but also for him, to help them deal with their grief and heal from the pain that they have endured with the loss of his first wife and there mother.
This book has it all d/s themes, praise kinks, grumpy yet possessive dominant alpha male, a strong sassy female who gives as good as she gets, complex family and friend dynamics, murder, madness, mayhem, revenge, vengeance, violence, deception, adrenaline seeking suspense, jealousy, twists, turns, truths and betrayal.
This story is told from dual POV, it will take you on a wild ride, having you turn page after page, this book had me from the beginning to the end. Reading this story, it enables the readers to really connect with the characters, and as the story continues to unfold the readers see the development and growth from the characters singularly and together. The author definitely knows how to write and I’ll be coming back for more.
And those s*x scenes, including those BDSM elements were steamy, yet sensual, dirty, hot, intense, physical, provocative, it had all the angry angst, hate, jealousy, pleasure and passion one would expect when Lorenzo shows his wife who he really is, taking him for all that he is, darkness and all. For he takes what he wants without consequence, giving Anni the pain and pleasure she deserve, his possessive and obsessive need for control and dominance, it was off the charts and had all of the feels.
Cannot believe that this is the end of there story, but all good stories must come to and end, they got there happily ever after, it also proves that Lorenzo is no short of being possessive, wicked and depraved, showing Anni who’s clearly in charge and who owns her heart, mind and body, it was bittersweet and oh so perfect, and one very well deserved for them all.
Highly recommend this book and author!
November 29, 2023
I caved afer so many tiktkoks about this and read it in a day.
Look it's not the best thing out there but the things that I'll highlight are the things that I enjoyed:
- character development (the mmc really improved not only as a husband but as a father too after realizing he's an imbecile)
- real bonding between the MCs and their children
- there was a real apology after MMC messed up (some MMC just sweep it under the rug, specially mafia MMCs)
Overall, not great but not bad.. I think
Look it's not the best thing out there but the things that I'll highlight are the things that I enjoyed:
- character development (the mmc really improved not only as a husband but as a father too after realizing he's an imbecile)
- real bonding between the MCs and their children
- there was a real apology after MMC messed up (some MMC just sweep it under the rug, specially mafia MMCs)
Overall, not great but not bad.. I think
Read
September 4, 2023BookTok wins again!
I love this book! It was absolutely amazing and it was so easy to read. I loved reading this and seeing the growth from both Sides of the couple. The one complaint I have is that she was way to forgivable with Lorenzo. He basically said everything was her fault and then calmed down and used his magical Dominant powers to have her forgive him. It was good- but it was also a bit frustrating too!
I love this book! It was absolutely amazing and it was so easy to read. I loved reading this and seeing the growth from both Sides of the couple. The one complaint I have is that she was way to forgivable with Lorenzo. He basically said everything was her fault and then calmed down and used his magical Dominant powers to have her forgive him. It was good- but it was also a bit frustrating too!
January 18, 2023
❈•≫────≪•◦ 𝒏𝒆𝒘 𝒓𝒆𝒍𝒆𝒂𝒔𝒆 ◦•≫────≪•❈
★★★★
I loved this so much! Please do correct me if I'm wrong but I think this is a debut novel? I honestly couldn't tell but couldn't find anything else from this author so I'm guessing it is.
It was so good!!
Our FMC Anni knows how to protect herself. Her parents have always encouraged her to now how to. She is obsessed with her cat and even has a matching cat costume. It drives Lorenzo crazyyyy. He finds it so infuriating. Especially so when she gets his daughter obsessed with her cat too and getting a costume of her own LOL... If she could have gotten his son to be obsessed too, she probably could have manager that too
Marrying Lorenzo and moving to Chicago from Staten Island wasn't an easy transition for her. She was used to be being independent and now she had to have people guarding her whenever she went out. Despite their frustrations over several things, they managed together as a small little family.
❈•≫────≪•◦ 𝒘𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒕𝒐 𝒆𝒙𝒑𝒆𝒄𝒕 ◦•≫────≪•❈
• age gap
• arranged marriage
• forced proximity
• grumpy x sunshine
• mafia romance
• morally grey
• single dad
• mafia romance
January 12, 2024
Lorenzo was an asshole to an I literally the whole book up to the last 10%
Instead of apologizing when he realized he was wrong about an I betraying him he forced her to watch a video he secretly took of them fucking and then fucked he’d. he was gone the next morning when she woke up. He had taken her phone and laptop and everything away from her and wouldn’t let her leave the property.
When he finally apologizes for everything it’s a half assed apology and the whole time he’s in his head going “what more does she want I said sorry and that I trust her. I even called myself an asshole” like sir you literally treated her like shit you could do more than say “sorry” for fucks sake.
Anni is immature honestly. She did good with the kids but she literally dressed up like a cat and went to cat con.
Also wtf was the point in making such a big deal about her wanting to get a college degree if once h said okay to it the topic was never brought up again…. She helped him solve two big issues in his business but it never went anywhere. Seemed irrelevant to even mention at all.
Overall I did not like this book I only finished it because I wanted to see him grovel and earn her love and he never did.
Instead of apologizing when he realized he was wrong about an I betraying him he forced her to watch a video he secretly took of them fucking and then fucked he’d. he was gone the next morning when she woke up. He had taken her phone and laptop and everything away from her and wouldn’t let her leave the property.
When he finally apologizes for everything it’s a half assed apology and the whole time he’s in his head going “what more does she want I said sorry and that I trust her. I even called myself an asshole” like sir you literally treated her like shit you could do more than say “sorry” for fucks sake.
Anni is immature honestly. She did good with the kids but she literally dressed up like a cat and went to cat con.
Also wtf was the point in making such a big deal about her wanting to get a college degree if once h said okay to it the topic was never brought up again…. She helped him solve two big issues in his business but it never went anywhere. Seemed irrelevant to even mention at all.
Overall I did not like this book I only finished it because I wanted to see him grovel and earn her love and he never did.
January 18, 2023
Book title: Mafia and Angel
Author: Isa Oliver
Book Series: Marchiano Mafia #1
Genre: Romance, Drama
Tropes: Mafia, Alpha Male, Feisty FMC, enemies to lovers, single dad.
Rating:5/5
Spice: 4/5
Angst: 3/5
Plot: After a near-miss incident, Anni is put into an arranged marriage with Lorenzo Marchiano, the dangerous New York Mafia Underboss. He's a single dad. He's ruthless, arrogant, and demanding, and Anni is adamant about keeping him at arm's length.
Thoughts: As a huge Mafia Romance reader, I was intrigued to read this debut book from Isa Oliver. I love the Mafia world and all the details within.
I really cannot believe this is her first book. It was written beautifully, emotionally, and descriptively. I couldn't put it down. The single-dad mafia trope was intriguing, and I loved that whole part of the story too.
Author: Isa Oliver
Book Series: Marchiano Mafia #1
Genre: Romance, Drama
Tropes: Mafia, Alpha Male, Feisty FMC, enemies to lovers, single dad.
Rating:5/5
Spice: 4/5
Angst: 3/5
Plot: After a near-miss incident, Anni is put into an arranged marriage with Lorenzo Marchiano, the dangerous New York Mafia Underboss. He's a single dad. He's ruthless, arrogant, and demanding, and Anni is adamant about keeping him at arm's length.
Thoughts: As a huge Mafia Romance reader, I was intrigued to read this debut book from Isa Oliver. I love the Mafia world and all the details within.
I really cannot believe this is her first book. It was written beautifully, emotionally, and descriptively. I couldn't put it down. The single-dad mafia trope was intriguing, and I loved that whole part of the story too.
January 23, 2024
What on earth was this book!
Firstly I don't know who wrote it first but there is definitely another book with the same plot! I am referring to single dad, marriage under false pretense that girl will be good mom and ending up having no experience, the traumatic and mystery surrounding mother's death, one child being extremely traumatized etc etc. the list literally can go on and on. If I could remember the book name, I would have asked you to read and understand where I was coming from but alas I can't recollect right now.
Secondly even if the story was a copy, the writing was horrendous. Please research bdsm and forced play before writing it otherwise it just looks like rape. Not gonna sugar coat it. I was repulsed reading it.
With great difficulty I finished the book
Firstly I don't know who wrote it first but there is definitely another book with the same plot! I am referring to single dad, marriage under false pretense that girl will be good mom and ending up having no experience, the traumatic and mystery surrounding mother's death, one child being extremely traumatized etc etc. the list literally can go on and on. If I could remember the book name, I would have asked you to read and understand where I was coming from but alas I can't recollect right now.
Secondly even if the story was a copy, the writing was horrendous. Please research bdsm and forced play before writing it otherwise it just looks like rape. Not gonna sugar coat it. I was repulsed reading it.
With great difficulty I finished the book
January 18, 2023
Hey Lovelies
First things first, thank you to Isa Oliver for allowing me to read this wonderful book.
This book got me out of a reading slump. I was so glad that I got the opportunity to read and review this book. I cannot wait for book 2. Not to mention I was man down with illness things and well it was perfect for the long nights.
Let’s take care of housekeeping first. Please check the trigger warnings, although book one is tamed, I do believe that book 2 is a little darker and I cannot wait for it. Remember your mental health matters.
I must start off by saying Isa are you an animal lover because Wilbur was the star of the show. As the local crazy cat lady, I approve and honestly loved the fact that he played a major role. Also, the fact that he was a support animal to Clara was perfect. I totally get that Wilbur was giving Lorenzo the stink eye, my own fluffs give my fiancé the stink eye.
Anni, I felt at the end was a strong female character, but boy in the start of the book I had the same feelings as Lorenzo towards her. Her character development was chef’s kiss. Honestly starting as this young semi-innocent woman to this beautiful strong woman who was basically running the household and accepting her husband for who he is and accepting his children as her own was wonderful.
Lorenzo, the word alphahole comes to mind. He irked me when he wouldn’t trust her, and I get it he is a made man and he has to suspect everyone, but he could have given her a bit of grace. His history with Rita also plays a major role in their relationship and I feel that he was a bit insecure in that fact and rightly so. He could have trusted Anni more on the Clara’s issues because that poor girl was struggling with her grief. However, that being said he did have a possessive side towards Anni, and boy did he make my lady bits melt with the smegsy scenes.
The families oh my gosh Ma Veneti was a hoot in this book. I do love me a psycho mother-in-law. Well except mine but that is another story altogether. I felt that Anni’s family was very progressive in how they run the business and involved Anni. Whereas Lorenzo’s family was the stiff traditionalist that had to have things done a certain way. I can see why Aloysius would be the bad guy in the story. I didn’t see it at first but slowly as the book went on, I had my aha moment and was like I knew it I knew it I knew it. I am glad that through thick and thin that Lorenzo and Anni ended up being happy in their marriage and that they got their little happy ever after.
Now I personally cannot wait for the rest of the books in this series.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and I hope you do to.
Xoxo
E
First things first, thank you to Isa Oliver for allowing me to read this wonderful book.
This book got me out of a reading slump. I was so glad that I got the opportunity to read and review this book. I cannot wait for book 2. Not to mention I was man down with illness things and well it was perfect for the long nights.
Let’s take care of housekeeping first. Please check the trigger warnings, although book one is tamed, I do believe that book 2 is a little darker and I cannot wait for it. Remember your mental health matters.
I must start off by saying Isa are you an animal lover because Wilbur was the star of the show. As the local crazy cat lady, I approve and honestly loved the fact that he played a major role. Also, the fact that he was a support animal to Clara was perfect. I totally get that Wilbur was giving Lorenzo the stink eye, my own fluffs give my fiancé the stink eye.
Anni, I felt at the end was a strong female character, but boy in the start of the book I had the same feelings as Lorenzo towards her. Her character development was chef’s kiss. Honestly starting as this young semi-innocent woman to this beautiful strong woman who was basically running the household and accepting her husband for who he is and accepting his children as her own was wonderful.
Lorenzo, the word alphahole comes to mind. He irked me when he wouldn’t trust her, and I get it he is a made man and he has to suspect everyone, but he could have given her a bit of grace. His history with Rita also plays a major role in their relationship and I feel that he was a bit insecure in that fact and rightly so. He could have trusted Anni more on the Clara’s issues because that poor girl was struggling with her grief. However, that being said he did have a possessive side towards Anni, and boy did he make my lady bits melt with the smegsy scenes.
The families oh my gosh Ma Veneti was a hoot in this book. I do love me a psycho mother-in-law. Well except mine but that is another story altogether. I felt that Anni’s family was very progressive in how they run the business and involved Anni. Whereas Lorenzo’s family was the stiff traditionalist that had to have things done a certain way. I can see why Aloysius would be the bad guy in the story. I didn’t see it at first but slowly as the book went on, I had my aha moment and was like I knew it I knew it I knew it. I am glad that through thick and thin that Lorenzo and Anni ended up being happy in their marriage and that they got their little happy ever after.
Now I personally cannot wait for the rest of the books in this series.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and I hope you do to.
Xoxo
E
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 13, 2023
This is a plagiarised version of Sweet Temptation by Cora Reilly and let's list the similarities:
*Spoilers below* :
- first half of the book, we get to know that first wife had a mysterious death
- The MMC meets FMC where she is dressed childish and doesn't look 'mature' (sunflowers and bangs vs cat costume and blond bob which is 'unusual' for someone of age)
- FMC has a very lovable family and we can see that compared to other mafia heiress, the FMC had a lenient upbringing (with a very loving dad who spoils them dearly but the marriage to the MMC is important)
- Arranged marriage where she doesn't have experience in childcare but needs to learn as MMC has a lot of work, sleep deprieved, etc
- BLOODY SHEETS (like seriously? Isa has to plagiarise this too?)
- TWO KIDS (one younger who doesn't understand what happened to their actual mother and the elder one has difficulty speaking due to the stress/sadness of losing a parent and needs speech therapy)
- FMC is a rebellious wife and dresses casually and childlike
- FMC takes kids shopping whereby kids enjoy themselves get tired, hungry and weary and they rush home (but they finally get some new clothes)
- We get to second half of the book and the MMC still has trust issues and blames himself that the reason the children are sad is because he 'killed' his first wife but still won't tell the FMC the real reason
- MMC realises that his wife is much smarter that he gave credit for
- MMC accuses his new wife of some sort of betrayal
- MMC in a situation where Capo is involved (don't get me started of this - Marco is a Walmart version of Remo Falcone and his book even involves kidnapping the 'virgin bride'
anyway Capo finds the out the truth (the one involving death of first wife) and forgives the MMC as the latter is loyal
- Ending scene where elder child can finally say 'Dad' and children decide to call FMC 'Mom'
___________________
These are just A FEW highlights and Mafia and Angel had plagiarised throughout the whole book
Maybe we could assume that these are just small similarities but Marco/Remo with the elder brother who had to look after siblings (lots of brothers) , who is brutal AF and who kidnaps an Italian Bride who is heiress of a rival Italian family in another state - is too much...
FYI : this is my first book review ever and I hope reaches the proper audience who do not support plagiarism
*Spoilers below* :
- first half of the book, we get to know that first wife had a mysterious death
- The MMC meets FMC where she is dressed childish and doesn't look 'mature' (sunflowers and bangs vs cat costume and blond bob which is 'unusual' for someone of age)
- FMC has a very lovable family and we can see that compared to other mafia heiress, the FMC had a lenient upbringing (with a very loving dad who spoils them dearly but the marriage to the MMC is important)
- Arranged marriage where she doesn't have experience in childcare but needs to learn as MMC has a lot of work, sleep deprieved, etc
- BLOODY SHEETS (like seriously? Isa has to plagiarise this too?)
- TWO KIDS (one younger who doesn't understand what happened to their actual mother and the elder one has difficulty speaking due to the stress/sadness of losing a parent and needs speech therapy)
- FMC is a rebellious wife and dresses casually and childlike
- FMC takes kids shopping whereby kids enjoy themselves get tired, hungry and weary and they rush home (but they finally get some new clothes)
- We get to second half of the book and the MMC still has trust issues and blames himself that the reason the children are sad is because he 'killed' his first wife but still won't tell the FMC the real reason
- MMC realises that his wife is much smarter that he gave credit for
- MMC accuses his new wife of some sort of betrayal
- MMC in a situation where Capo is involved (don't get me started of this - Marco is a Walmart version of Remo Falcone and his book even involves kidnapping the 'virgin bride'
anyway Capo finds the out the truth (the one involving death of first wife) and forgives the MMC as the latter is loyal
- Ending scene where elder child can finally say 'Dad' and children decide to call FMC 'Mom'
___________________
These are just A FEW highlights and Mafia and Angel had plagiarised throughout the whole book
Maybe we could assume that these are just small similarities but Marco/Remo with the elder brother who had to look after siblings (lots of brothers) , who is brutal AF and who kidnaps an Italian Bride who is heiress of a rival Italian family in another state - is too much...
FYI : this is my first book review ever and I hope reaches the proper audience who do not support plagiarism
October 12, 2023
“Santa Adelina, Madre di Dio, prega per noi peccatori, adesso e nell’ora della nostra morte. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners now and at the hour of our death.”
Lorenzo and Anni are the perfect strangers (enemies) to lovers. The insane amount of drama alone was enough to keep me reading.
For those of you who don’t know anything about Mafia romance, everything is explained pretty well. Now, they could definitely be a little more detail with the going on about mafia life but the hinted at horrors the men have to commit is pretty good.
I think the biggest plot line that keeps normal people reading is what exactly happened to Lorenzo’s first wife? It’s not what you would expect. Trying not to always spoil things but a lot more makes sense once you hear the truth.
Anni is an amazing young woman, very smart and dedicated to the mafia, even if she doesn’t want to have to do her duty. She fits in the role of a nanny-like mother figure for Lorenzo’s children, whom she really comes to care for. Clara, the daughter is a sweetheart, but very broken by her short life so far. Seeing how Anni pulls her gently out of her shell is amazing. I can say that most twenty year olds wouldn’t have this much patience. Giving her speech therapy, to getting the kids actual children’s plates to eat on she is very persistent.
Lorenzo on the other hand is amazing father, even when he barely has time for his kids. I wasn’t sold on him being a good love interest due to how dictatorial he can be…. But hey the book is fiction and anything goes when it comes to fictional men. His need to be in control of everything little thing will most likely drive you insane through out the book but at the end you’ll realize it was all in the efforts to keep people safe.
The spice is quite nice in the book, very descriptive, even if there aren’t that many scenes twined into the plot. Anni is a spitfire, from shooting Lorenzo to protect her cat, spoiling their wedding night, and eventually crashing into his life and forcing her own opinions on the household… she can definitely hold her own!
I guarantee you’ll love almost every second of this book.
Lorenzo and Anni are the perfect strangers (enemies) to lovers. The insane amount of drama alone was enough to keep me reading.
For those of you who don’t know anything about Mafia romance, everything is explained pretty well. Now, they could definitely be a little more detail with the going on about mafia life but the hinted at horrors the men have to commit is pretty good.
I think the biggest plot line that keeps normal people reading is what exactly happened to Lorenzo’s first wife? It’s not what you would expect. Trying not to always spoil things but a lot more makes sense once you hear the truth.
Anni is an amazing young woman, very smart and dedicated to the mafia, even if she doesn’t want to have to do her duty. She fits in the role of a nanny-like mother figure for Lorenzo’s children, whom she really comes to care for. Clara, the daughter is a sweetheart, but very broken by her short life so far. Seeing how Anni pulls her gently out of her shell is amazing. I can say that most twenty year olds wouldn’t have this much patience. Giving her speech therapy, to getting the kids actual children’s plates to eat on she is very persistent.
Lorenzo on the other hand is amazing father, even when he barely has time for his kids. I wasn’t sold on him being a good love interest due to how dictatorial he can be…. But hey the book is fiction and anything goes when it comes to fictional men. His need to be in control of everything little thing will most likely drive you insane through out the book but at the end you’ll realize it was all in the efforts to keep people safe.
The spice is quite nice in the book, very descriptive, even if there aren’t that many scenes twined into the plot. Anni is a spitfire, from shooting Lorenzo to protect her cat, spoiling their wedding night, and eventually crashing into his life and forcing her own opinions on the household… she can definitely hold her own!
I guarantee you’ll love almost every second of this book.
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