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The Anna Albertini Files #5.5
Holiday Rebel
Secrets are Unwrapped during this Holiday Season
Rory Albertini has survived in a world of espionage and danger by being patient and outwaiting any enemy. So, when his fiancé and the only woman he’s ever love dumps him, he immediately creates an attack plan. He gives her time—with a deadline—to deal with the fact that he can’t talk about his job but will give everything else in his life, including his heart, to her. Yet when danger comes for her, he might have to reveal the deadly skills he wants to hide and then possibly lose her forever.
Serenity McDerny is a stubborn Irishwoman who’d thought she had the ideal life with her hottie Italian fiancé in the best small town in the world. They even picked out rings, when she’d had no clue he wasn’t actually with the forest service. The guy is some type of spy! He lied to her, way too easily, and she can't let that go. Now, like some arrogant James Bond, he’s given her a deadline to figure things out and get back together with him? While she can handle Rory’s stubbornness as well as the danger coming fast, not even Serenity can avoid the Albertini match-makers when they set their sights on her.
Rory Albertini has survived in a world of espionage and danger by being patient and outwaiting any enemy. So, when his fiancé and the only woman he’s ever love dumps him, he immediately creates an attack plan. He gives her time—with a deadline—to deal with the fact that he can’t talk about his job but will give everything else in his life, including his heart, to her. Yet when danger comes for her, he might have to reveal the deadly skills he wants to hide and then possibly lose her forever.
Serenity McDerny is a stubborn Irishwoman who’d thought she had the ideal life with her hottie Italian fiancé in the best small town in the world. They even picked out rings, when she’d had no clue he wasn’t actually with the forest service. The guy is some type of spy! He lied to her, way too easily, and she can't let that go. Now, like some arrogant James Bond, he’s given her a deadline to figure things out and get back together with him? While she can handle Rory’s stubbornness as well as the danger coming fast, not even Serenity can avoid the Albertini match-makers when they set their sights on her.
132 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 29, 2023
208 people are currently reading
273 people want to read
About the author
Rebecca Zanetti
120 books10.1k followersNew York Times, USA Today, Publisher’s Weekly and Wall Street Journal bestselling author Rebecca Zanetti has published more than seventy novels and novellas, which have been translated into several languages, with millions of copies sold world-wide. Her books have received Publisher’s Weekly and Kirkus starred reviews, favorable Washington Post and New York Times Book Reviews, and been included in Amazon best books of the year.
Rebecca has ridden in a locked Chevy trunk, has asked the unfortunate delivery guy to release her from a set of handcuffs, and has discovered the best silver mine shafts in which to bury a body…all in the name of research. Honest.
Rebecca has ridden in a locked Chevy trunk, has asked the unfortunate delivery guy to release her from a set of handcuffs, and has discovered the best silver mine shafts in which to bury a body…all in the name of research. Honest.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
August 29, 2023
Holiday Rebel by Rebecca Zanetti
The Anna Alberti Files #5.5. Romantic suspense novella. Can be read as a stand-alone.
Who can resist Rory Albertini?
Serenity can. Well, at least she tries. She threw his ring in his face when she found him lying to her about his job. He lied about where he worked and spent his time. And he was good at it. Really good at lying. How can she trust him, or anyone again?
Now some stalker is leaving flowers on her car. It better not be Rory or she’s going to …..well, she doesn’t know what she’ll do exactly but something!
Rory totally understands why Serenity is upset. But he couldn’t tell her about his job until he got clearance. She’s everything he wants. He has to find a way to win back her love. Give her a little space, then 100% loving dedication.
Romance, suspense, the Albertini family, matchmakers, and a feel good, swooney, heartwarming story.
The Anna Alberti Files #5.5. Romantic suspense novella. Can be read as a stand-alone.
Who can resist Rory Albertini?
Serenity can. Well, at least she tries. She threw his ring in his face when she found him lying to her about his job. He lied about where he worked and spent his time. And he was good at it. Really good at lying. How can she trust him, or anyone again?
Now some stalker is leaving flowers on her car. It better not be Rory or she’s going to …..well, she doesn’t know what she’ll do exactly but something!
Rory totally understands why Serenity is upset. But he couldn’t tell her about his job until he got clearance. She’s everything he wants. He has to find a way to win back her love. Give her a little space, then 100% loving dedication.
Romance, suspense, the Albertini family, matchmakers, and a feel good, swooney, heartwarming story.
September 2, 2023
This is an entertaining, fast paced, well-written, steamy, romantic suspense novella. It has mystery, intrigue, wit, a touch of humor, a heartwarming romance and the beloved Albertini family. It is an excellent addition to Ms. Zanetti's "The Anna Albertini Files" series and can be read and enjoyed as a stand alone, but it is even better when read as a part of the series.
December 7, 2023
Thank you, Santa! What a wonderful gift for this Christmas Season. Hot, hunky and determined Albertini Cousin and a suspense/mystery plot. Fantastic way to escape from the holiday madness.
Patience. Patience has served Rory Albertini well in his career as a CIA operative. But Rory is running out of patience with ex-fiancée Serenity. In addition to being patient, Rory is a man of action and now is the time to take action and Serenity is his objective. He loves her and is ready to give up the job he has kept secret from her and caused her to break off their engagement.
If there is one thing Serenity McDerny can't abide it is a man who keeps secrets and lies to her. Rory has done both repeatedly throughout their relationship. She had a stepfather who did that to her mother. It's not going to happen to her. Rory has given her a deadline to come back to him. Not. Going. To. Happen. At least not until her life is in danger.
Patience. Patience has served Rory Albertini well in his career as a CIA operative. But Rory is running out of patience with ex-fiancée Serenity. In addition to being patient, Rory is a man of action and now is the time to take action and Serenity is his objective. He loves her and is ready to give up the job he has kept secret from her and caused her to break off their engagement.
If there is one thing Serenity McDerny can't abide it is a man who keeps secrets and lies to her. Rory has done both repeatedly throughout their relationship. She had a stepfather who did that to her mother. It's not going to happen to her. Rory has given her a deadline to come back to him. Not. Going. To. Happen. At least not until her life is in danger.
April 13, 2024
I just really love all the Albertini's. They are fun and entertaining and I especially love how the men love their women. They are fiercely protective and know what they want. Loved Rory and Serenity.
October 18, 2023
3 short and sweet stars
This is a fun little novella in the Anna Albertini Files series, this book features Albertini cousin, Rory, whose story was hinted at during the last book of the series, Tessa's Trust. A second-chance-romance with a grovelling alpha hero, a quietly sparkly heroine and a little bit of mystery/suspense, I really enjoyed this one.
Rory and Serenity’s engagement ended when Serenity discovered that Rory was secretly a CIA operative, and had been lying to her for the duration of their relationship. He’s given her time to come to terms with the news, knowing deep down that he’ll win her back, but Serenity has very different opinions. Rory suddenly finds himself in a battle he wasn’t expecting as he fights for his girl.
At the same time, he’s tracking down a missing fugitive in a case close to his heart, and Serenity has found herself the target of a stalker.
It’s all happening, and Rory will have to pull in some help from his family to protect his girl, and get the happy ending that he’s so desperate for.
This is a cute read, with snark and bickering, an overconfident alpha, a drive by shooting, interfering family members, and all of the fun and quirky characters that I love about this series. Rory and Serenity’s story ends really sweetly.
There are some hints for future books of the series, and I’m here for all of the craziness, and can’t wait to continue on.
3 stars.
This is a fun little novella in the Anna Albertini Files series, this book features Albertini cousin, Rory, whose story was hinted at during the last book of the series, Tessa's Trust. A second-chance-romance with a grovelling alpha hero, a quietly sparkly heroine and a little bit of mystery/suspense, I really enjoyed this one.
Rory and Serenity’s engagement ended when Serenity discovered that Rory was secretly a CIA operative, and had been lying to her for the duration of their relationship. He’s given her time to come to terms with the news, knowing deep down that he’ll win her back, but Serenity has very different opinions. Rory suddenly finds himself in a battle he wasn’t expecting as he fights for his girl.
At the same time, he’s tracking down a missing fugitive in a case close to his heart, and Serenity has found herself the target of a stalker.
It’s all happening, and Rory will have to pull in some help from his family to protect his girl, and get the happy ending that he’s so desperate for.
This is a cute read, with snark and bickering, an overconfident alpha, a drive by shooting, interfering family members, and all of the fun and quirky characters that I love about this series. Rory and Serenity’s story ends really sweetly.
There are some hints for future books of the series, and I’m here for all of the craziness, and can’t wait to continue on.
3 stars.
August 30, 2023
Holiday Rebel is a happy holiday, fun-filled, romantic comedy.
Holiday Rebel is Serenity and Rory’s Happily-Ever-After. As with all the Albertini novels and novellas, this standalone tale is filled with wit, heat, charm and chaotic Albertini chaos. It’s a happy holiday, fun-filled, romantic comedy.
Holiday Rebel is Serenity and Rory’s Happily-Ever-After. As with all the Albertini novels and novellas, this standalone tale is filled with wit, heat, charm and chaotic Albertini chaos. It’s a happy holiday, fun-filled, romantic comedy.
September 3, 2023
Very cute for a short story in a fun series. Rory and Serenity were adorable together.
November 1, 2025
Serenity McDerny’s fiancé, Rory Albertini, works for forest service in Idaho. Except, when she became concerned by his lack of response to her texts, she discovered his deception. What’s a girl to do, but call off the engagement? Rory plans to give her a little space, but won’t accept anything less than a complete reconciliation. He needs to win her back, catch a bad guy, and find out who’s stalking his girl. Don’t worry. He’s the right man for the job.
The Albertini’s are such a huge family that it’s hard for me to keep track of them all. I had no idea whose story was up next and dove in blind. It was perfect! It’s hard to satisfy me with a novella, because there is less time to develop the characters and the plot. Rebecca has so much experience that she nails it anyway. I love the sweetness of Serenity, the sexiness of Rory, and comfortable feel of the town of Silverville. The Albertini family is like the comfy blanket that you spread over your legs as you tuck in to read a book. Cozy and protective. This read made me feel so good!
The Albertini’s are such a huge family that it’s hard for me to keep track of them all. I had no idea whose story was up next and dove in blind. It was perfect! It’s hard to satisfy me with a novella, because there is less time to develop the characters and the plot. Rebecca has so much experience that she nails it anyway. I love the sweetness of Serenity, the sexiness of Rory, and comfortable feel of the town of Silverville. The Albertini family is like the comfy blanket that you spread over your legs as you tuck in to read a book. Cozy and protective. This read made me feel so good!
December 23, 2025
The Anna Albertini Files Series :
✅ 1. Disorderly Conduct (2020) - 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ read 16.12.2025
𝐀𝐍𝐍𝐀 𝐚𝐧𝐚 𝐀𝐈𝐃𝐄𝐍 - A perfect start to the series, and so funny. Despite all the dangers, I laughed out loud at the actions of our feisty heroine, who seems to have no luck left her. Luckily for her, she has several men around her who care about her. We'll see what happens in the next installment.
✅ 2. Bailed Out (2020) - 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ read 17.12.2025r.
𝐀𝐍𝐍𝐀 𝐚𝐧𝐚 𝐀𝐈𝐃𝐄𝐍 -it was a great sequel, the situation thickens, the danger reaches the family and finally we have clarity about Aiden's profession. I liked the fun side. It was a good move on the part of the author to break this tension with a large dose of humor. I like it in my readings.
✅ 3. Adverse Possession (2021) - 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ read 18.12.2025r.
𝐀𝐍𝐍𝐀 𝐚𝐧𝐚 𝐀𝐈𝐃𝐄𝐍 -Things are happening, oh so happening, as our heroes face many dangers, including a crazy guy who likes to explode. Luckily, they have each other and the additional support of the ATF SRT agents. The supporting characters also do a great job. And the Elders of both Houses, haha, I love those Ladies.
I love Aiden and his stoic calm and the way he treats Ann. They try to have a serious relationship together, but the past keeps coming back between these crazy two 💞
✅ 3.5 Holiday Rescue (2021) - 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ read 19.12.2025r.
𝐐𝐮𝐢𝐧𝐭 𝐀𝐥𝐛𝐞𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐢 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐃𝐚𝐯𝐢𝐬 -I rarely give 5 stars to such short stories, but this one fully deserves it. It's a great addition to the series, and we get a backstory about one of Anna's cousins, a bit about the rest of the family, and a teaser for the next case 🤩👍
✅ 4. Santa's Subpoena (2021) - 5 🤶🤶🤶🤶🤶 read 21.12.2025
𝐀𝐍𝐍𝐀 𝐚𝐧𝐚 𝐀𝐈𝐃𝐄𝐍 -this Christmas story was a great addition to this wonderful series.
✅ 4.5 Holiday Rogue (2022) - 5 ❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️ read 22.12.2025
𝐁𝐎𝐒𝐂𝐎 𝐀𝐋𝐁𝐄𝐑𝐓𝐈𝐍𝐈 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐌𝐀𝐑𝐋𝐈𝐄 𝐊𝐑𝐄𝐔𝐊 -Another great addition to this fantastically written series. The Albertinis quickly fall for their women, and it's wonderful to read about them.
✅4.75 Holiday Rebel (2023) - 4.5 ❄️ read 23.12.2025
𝐑𝐎𝐑𝐘 𝐀𝐋𝐁𝐄𝐑𝐓𝐈𝐍𝐈 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐄𝐑𝐄𝐍𝐈𝐓𝐔 𝐌𝐜𝐃𝐄𝐑𝐍𝐘 -Rory had a really dangerous job. I'm curious if Hana will get her story... 🤩
❌ 5 Tessa's Trust (2023)
❌ 6 Habeas Corpus (2024)
❌ 7 Celtic Justice (2025)
https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B08BPKVDF...
✅ 1. Disorderly Conduct (2020) - 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ read 16.12.2025
𝐀𝐍𝐍𝐀 𝐚𝐧𝐚 𝐀𝐈𝐃𝐄𝐍 - A perfect start to the series, and so funny. Despite all the dangers, I laughed out loud at the actions of our feisty heroine, who seems to have no luck left her. Luckily for her, she has several men around her who care about her. We'll see what happens in the next installment.
✅ 2. Bailed Out (2020) - 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ read 17.12.2025r.
𝐀𝐍𝐍𝐀 𝐚𝐧𝐚 𝐀𝐈𝐃𝐄𝐍 -it was a great sequel, the situation thickens, the danger reaches the family and finally we have clarity about Aiden's profession. I liked the fun side. It was a good move on the part of the author to break this tension with a large dose of humor. I like it in my readings.
✅ 3. Adverse Possession (2021) - 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ read 18.12.2025r.
𝐀𝐍𝐍𝐀 𝐚𝐧𝐚 𝐀𝐈𝐃𝐄𝐍 -Things are happening, oh so happening, as our heroes face many dangers, including a crazy guy who likes to explode. Luckily, they have each other and the additional support of the ATF SRT agents. The supporting characters also do a great job. And the Elders of both Houses, haha, I love those Ladies.
I love Aiden and his stoic calm and the way he treats Ann. They try to have a serious relationship together, but the past keeps coming back between these crazy two 💞
✅ 3.5 Holiday Rescue (2021) - 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ read 19.12.2025r.
𝐐𝐮𝐢𝐧𝐭 𝐀𝐥𝐛𝐞𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐢 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐃𝐚𝐯𝐢𝐬 -I rarely give 5 stars to such short stories, but this one fully deserves it. It's a great addition to the series, and we get a backstory about one of Anna's cousins, a bit about the rest of the family, and a teaser for the next case 🤩👍
✅ 4. Santa's Subpoena (2021) - 5 🤶🤶🤶🤶🤶 read 21.12.2025
𝐀𝐍𝐍𝐀 𝐚𝐧𝐚 𝐀𝐈𝐃𝐄𝐍 -this Christmas story was a great addition to this wonderful series.
✅ 4.5 Holiday Rogue (2022) - 5 ❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️ read 22.12.2025
𝐁𝐎𝐒𝐂𝐎 𝐀𝐋𝐁𝐄𝐑𝐓𝐈𝐍𝐈 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐌𝐀𝐑𝐋𝐈𝐄 𝐊𝐑𝐄𝐔𝐊 -Another great addition to this fantastically written series. The Albertinis quickly fall for their women, and it's wonderful to read about them.
✅4.75 Holiday Rebel (2023) - 4.5 ❄️ read 23.12.2025
𝐑𝐎𝐑𝐘 𝐀𝐋𝐁𝐄𝐑𝐓𝐈𝐍𝐈 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐄𝐑𝐄𝐍𝐈𝐓𝐔 𝐌𝐜𝐃𝐄𝐑𝐍𝐘 -Rory had a really dangerous job. I'm curious if Hana will get her story... 🤩
❌ 5 Tessa's Trust (2023)
❌ 6 Habeas Corpus (2024)
❌ 7 Celtic Justice (2025)
https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B08BPKVDF...
September 10, 2023
Mah...this short story just makes me hope that the next book about the last of the three Albertini sisters who is still single will come soon.
Mah...questa breve storia mi fa solo sperare che il prossimo libro sull'ultima delle tre sorelle Albertini che é ancora single arrivi presto.
Mah...questa breve storia mi fa solo sperare che il prossimo libro sull'ultima delle tre sorelle Albertini che é ancora single arrivi presto.
August 31, 2023
We've been teased with Rory and Serenity in previous books in the series so it was great to finally get their story. Love this series and all the Albertini family.
December 25, 2023
Short holiday read - lots of Albertinis in and out of the picture so it only makes sense if you have read the series. This is Rory’s story. Given that it is a novella, things happen very quickly.
October 31, 2025
3.5 stars on this one .. still a good story with good show of the usual family characters, just not my fav … however I believe there was some interesting setups for the next few books ….
November 19, 2024
I think I would have liked this more had I read others in the series.
While parts of this were cute and enjoyable, I felt like I entered the theater midway through a movie. Pieces seemed off for me and I couldn't really fully invest in the characters or their Christmas romance. I did like the suspense element in a holiday tale. And, the writing was decent.
At the very least it's helping me get into the holiday spirit.
While parts of this were cute and enjoyable, I felt like I entered the theater midway through a movie. Pieces seemed off for me and I couldn't really fully invest in the characters or their Christmas romance. I did like the suspense element in a holiday tale. And, the writing was decent.
At the very least it's helping me get into the holiday spirit.
December 15, 2023
I enjoyed the story but felt Serenity gave in too quickly!
August 31, 2023
Holiday Rebel❄️
Loved getting to know more about Rory and Serenity❣️ As usual, the Albertini family are fantastic, interfering in their own way which makes do entertaining tales. The men are Alphas, sexy and charming, and overprotective in nature and Nonna has a hand in every proverbial matchmaking pie😍
I’m hoping Knox has found a match in Rory’s old partner too😉
Loved getting to know more about Rory and Serenity❣️ As usual, the Albertini family are fantastic, interfering in their own way which makes do entertaining tales. The men are Alphas, sexy and charming, and overprotective in nature and Nonna has a hand in every proverbial matchmaking pie😍
I’m hoping Knox has found a match in Rory’s old partner too😉
October 19, 2023
Rebecca Zanetti’s Holiday Rebel is a fun romantic suspense story. Like the other books in the Anna Albertini series, this stand alone novella doesn’t take itself too seriously while balancing a second chance romance and escaping a stalker.
4.5/5 stars
Serenity breaks off her engagement to Rory when she discovers that he doesn’t simply work for the forest service. Instead, he regularly puts his life in danger as an undercover law enforcement agent. Serenity still loves him, but can she still trust him? Rory is working to get back into her good graces and regain her trust, with the help of Nonna and the rest of his extended family. But his wooing efforts are put on hold when it appears Serenity has a stalker, and he need to finish one last case before he retires to work in the private sector. Can Rory get all the loose ends tied up before he convinces Serenity to make up and go to the town’s New Year’s Eve party with him?
It’s weird to say a romantic suspense series is a comfort read, but in this case, it’s true. The reader knows exactly what to expect, and while there is a little bit of tension, there is no doubt that the characters will still get their HEA. The alpha males are everywhere, but there are tons of humorous asides, as if they know their their overprotectiveness and general hotness is over the top. And, the novella length is perfect for my current short attention span.
If you like romantic suspense that doesn’t take itself too seriously, you’ll like Holiday Rebel. While Serenity and Rory work out their differences while escaping danger, it’s their banter, and of course steamy chemistry, that make this holiday treat a fun read.
4.5/5 stars
Serenity breaks off her engagement to Rory when she discovers that he doesn’t simply work for the forest service. Instead, he regularly puts his life in danger as an undercover law enforcement agent. Serenity still loves him, but can she still trust him? Rory is working to get back into her good graces and regain her trust, with the help of Nonna and the rest of his extended family. But his wooing efforts are put on hold when it appears Serenity has a stalker, and he need to finish one last case before he retires to work in the private sector. Can Rory get all the loose ends tied up before he convinces Serenity to make up and go to the town’s New Year’s Eve party with him?
It’s weird to say a romantic suspense series is a comfort read, but in this case, it’s true. The reader knows exactly what to expect, and while there is a little bit of tension, there is no doubt that the characters will still get their HEA. The alpha males are everywhere, but there are tons of humorous asides, as if they know their their overprotectiveness and general hotness is over the top. And, the novella length is perfect for my current short attention span.
If you like romantic suspense that doesn’t take itself too seriously, you’ll like Holiday Rebel. While Serenity and Rory work out their differences while escaping danger, it’s their banter, and of course steamy chemistry, that make this holiday treat a fun read.
December 31, 2024
3.5 stars
This was a super quick read. While it was sweet and fun, it wasn’t quite as good as the other novellas in this series. I was looking forward to Rory and Serenity’s story. There have been snippets of both characters throughout the series. I guess I found it a little anticlimactic.
There is only so much that can be done in so few pages. The chemistry is spot-on with the couple. The mysterious flowers and phone calls Serenity is getting piqued my interest. Once more is unveiled about Rory’s true job, the stuff with Serenity just didn’t have the same tension though. I was still invested in her and Rory making up and being together. I found my interest in the rest of the story waning.
There are a few things revealed about Rory and his brothers in this book, as well as a new character in Rory’s work partner. These things made this story seem even more of a transition story for the overall series. I don’t know that it would stand up well as a standalone. The interactions with Rory’s family are great, but I don’t know if that would be the case if you don’t know their back story. That makes me think, that while I would recommend the story if you’ve been reading the series, I wouldn’t recommend it to anyone new to the Anna Albertini world.
This was a super quick read. While it was sweet and fun, it wasn’t quite as good as the other novellas in this series. I was looking forward to Rory and Serenity’s story. There have been snippets of both characters throughout the series. I guess I found it a little anticlimactic.
There is only so much that can be done in so few pages. The chemistry is spot-on with the couple. The mysterious flowers and phone calls Serenity is getting piqued my interest. Once more is unveiled about Rory’s true job, the stuff with Serenity just didn’t have the same tension though. I was still invested in her and Rory making up and being together. I found my interest in the rest of the story waning.
There are a few things revealed about Rory and his brothers in this book, as well as a new character in Rory’s work partner. These things made this story seem even more of a transition story for the overall series. I don’t know that it would stand up well as a standalone. The interactions with Rory’s family are great, but I don’t know if that would be the case if you don’t know their back story. That makes me think, that while I would recommend the story if you’ve been reading the series, I wouldn’t recommend it to anyone new to the Anna Albertini world.
September 29, 2023
Ask and Ye shall receive.
After reading Tessa's Trust I so wanted to know more about Rory. Well as soon as I started Holiday Rebel I knew I got my wish. I loved everything about Rory's read. I honestly thought when Serenity caught him in a flat out lie that he wasn't going to be able to get out of it. He finally told her the truth about his job but she still didn't trust him. Rory had one more assignment to complete and little did he know it was that assignment going after Serenity to get to him. But the good guys always win. I did feel bad for his partner and them getting wrong or fake intel and Hana and Rory were almost blown to pieces. Hana ended up breaking her leg badly. I had to chuckle when Rory knocked on Serenity's door carrying Hana. My gut instinct would have been to slam the door in his face. WTH bringing another woman into her house. Some many great parts to this read. NOW will Knox end up with Hana, and who is Nonna and Anna going to go after for Donna .......I love this series seriously.
After reading Tessa's Trust I so wanted to know more about Rory. Well as soon as I started Holiday Rebel I knew I got my wish. I loved everything about Rory's read. I honestly thought when Serenity caught him in a flat out lie that he wasn't going to be able to get out of it. He finally told her the truth about his job but she still didn't trust him. Rory had one more assignment to complete and little did he know it was that assignment going after Serenity to get to him. But the good guys always win. I did feel bad for his partner and them getting wrong or fake intel and Hana and Rory were almost blown to pieces. Hana ended up breaking her leg badly. I had to chuckle when Rory knocked on Serenity's door carrying Hana. My gut instinct would have been to slam the door in his face. WTH bringing another woman into her house. Some many great parts to this read. NOW will Knox end up with Hana, and who is Nonna and Anna going to go after for Donna .......I love this series seriously.
August 29, 2023
It was interesting that this book started out with the couple broken up. I found it very understandable why Serenity called off things with Rory. How could she trust him when he lied about such an important part of his life, yet I got why he had to keep that hidden. Of course Rory's answer was to give Serenity space, but with a deadline. Then when Serenity started to get threats, Rory was right there in the middle of things to get to the bottom. Along the way he discovered some basic things Serenity kept hidden about herself and used those facts ruthlessly later as he steeped up his courtship. It helped that he had the whole Albertini clan behind him.
It was great to see how this one ended, the bad guy caught and dealt with and Serenity and Rory firmly back together planning their future.
It was great to see how this one ended, the bad guy caught and dealt with and Serenity and Rory firmly back together planning their future.
September 2, 2023
Holiday Rebel (The Anna Albertini Files, #5.5) by Rebecca Zanetti
I love this series - Rebecca grabs me got me with the first line. "Three month ago.... Her finance was ghosting her." Serenity McDerny and Rory Albertini need a second chance. She has baggage from her mother's relationship with a liar and cheat and he has secrets he can't share. With so many wonderful family members wanting to help out and with a mystery person stalking her, there is angst laughter, tears, lots of feelings, danger, and some steam all to get us to another Albertini HEA. I am so looking forward to the next book - HABEAS CORPUS.
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Unpredictable Romantic Wonderful characters Steamy Funny Entertaining Easy-to-read Scary Great world building Page-turner Action-packed Happily Ever After.
I love this series - Rebecca grabs me got me with the first line. "Three month ago.... Her finance was ghosting her." Serenity McDerny and Rory Albertini need a second chance. She has baggage from her mother's relationship with a liar and cheat and he has secrets he can't share. With so many wonderful family members wanting to help out and with a mystery person stalking her, there is angst laughter, tears, lots of feelings, danger, and some steam all to get us to another Albertini HEA. I am so looking forward to the next book - HABEAS CORPUS.
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Unpredictable Romantic Wonderful characters Steamy Funny Entertaining Easy-to-read Scary Great world building Page-turner Action-packed Happily Ever After.
October 24, 2023
4.25 Stars 🌟
This is a fun and easy read/listen in a series that I already love. I'm not sure when this came out, but it takes place in between two of the major books. Parts of this story are mentioned in one of the other books, but we are never given specific details. This book takes the time and gives us the story from those two characters - Rory and Serenity.
As usual, we get fun drop ins from other characters that we have come to already love in this world - Anna, Nona, Knox Albertini, Tessa.....(and Nona's purse with the wooden spoon....)
The story arc on this one is short and sweet but I still enjoyed it. If you have a couple of hours and need to read something that is quick, fun and has a nice resolution - this is for you. But, I may be biased because I pretty much love everything Ms. Zanetti writes. Sue me :)
This is a fun and easy read/listen in a series that I already love. I'm not sure when this came out, but it takes place in between two of the major books. Parts of this story are mentioned in one of the other books, but we are never given specific details. This book takes the time and gives us the story from those two characters - Rory and Serenity.
As usual, we get fun drop ins from other characters that we have come to already love in this world - Anna, Nona, Knox Albertini, Tessa.....(and Nona's purse with the wooden spoon....)
The story arc on this one is short and sweet but I still enjoyed it. If you have a couple of hours and need to read something that is quick, fun and has a nice resolution - this is for you. But, I may be biased because I pretty much love everything Ms. Zanetti writes. Sue me :)
August 30, 2023
Absolutely Loved It
I can’t get enough of the Albertini family. Rory is undercover CIA and his fiancé doesn’t know it. Until the night she couldn’t get hold of him and was truly worried something bad had happened to him. She tried to track him down and that’s when she realized he had lied about his job. He tried to explain but she wasn’t having it and broke it off. Now his mission is to win her back. In the meantime Serenity has a stalker and Rory is determined to find out who wants to harm her. The story is intriguing and often amusing when it involves the Albertini family. Makes for a very entertaining read.
I can’t get enough of the Albertini family. Rory is undercover CIA and his fiancé doesn’t know it. Until the night she couldn’t get hold of him and was truly worried something bad had happened to him. She tried to track him down and that’s when she realized he had lied about his job. He tried to explain but she wasn’t having it and broke it off. Now his mission is to win her back. In the meantime Serenity has a stalker and Rory is determined to find out who wants to harm her. The story is intriguing and often amusing when it involves the Albertini family. Makes for a very entertaining read.
July 8, 2024
Great novella
I really enjoyed this novella. Rory is such an alpha stud who’s sweet to Serenity but not over the top overbearing. He’s protective of her and is there for her. She’s sweet who has her life figured out. She just needs to decide if she can forgive him for lying about his job and if she wants to be with him again. The mystery of who’s stalking her was interesting. This plot isn’t as involved but this book has good action and enough going on to keep me hooked. I recommend this book and the series.
I really enjoyed this novella. Rory is such an alpha stud who’s sweet to Serenity but not over the top overbearing. He’s protective of her and is there for her. She’s sweet who has her life figured out. She just needs to decide if she can forgive him for lying about his job and if she wants to be with him again. The mystery of who’s stalking her was interesting. This plot isn’t as involved but this book has good action and enough going on to keep me hooked. I recommend this book and the series.
September 10, 2025
Rory Albertini a frequent character in previous books now has his turn. We know he has some secret job and tells everyone he works for the forest service. Unfortunately this is what he told his irish fiancee and when she find out he lied she dumps him. He gives her till New Year's to "deal" with it and she tells him it's over and to get lost. Her father was killed in the military and she had two step dads, one who was a consummate liar so she has not intention of giving Rory a 2nd chance after he lied to her.
Super cute short story with intrigue, romance and hijinx.
Super cute short story with intrigue, romance and hijinx.
August 30, 2023
Rory and Serenity
The Albertini men are very determined and protective of their loved ones. Rory is no exception. He doesn't give up trying to get Serenity to forgive him and take him back. When she's in danger, he pulls out all the stops and even gets his brothers involved. Serenity doesn't stand a chance against a determined Rory. This was a really great book and I'm already looking forward to the next book.
The Albertini men are very determined and protective of their loved ones. Rory is no exception. He doesn't give up trying to get Serenity to forgive him and take him back. When she's in danger, he pulls out all the stops and even gets his brothers involved. Serenity doesn't stand a chance against a determined Rory. This was a really great book and I'm already looking forward to the next book.
September 1, 2023
The Anna Albert in I Files
We continue with the Albertinis finding love but somehow spoiled with the brothers and their secretive jobs.. One with the CIA - others with their own security business. Serenity is confused by Rory's hiding the truth about working as fire fighter in the national fires in mountainous areas. This is another fun novella , with promises of more to come from Rebecca Zanetti.
We continue with the Albertinis finding love but somehow spoiled with the brothers and their secretive jobs.. One with the CIA - others with their own security business. Serenity is confused by Rory's hiding the truth about working as fire fighter in the national fires in mountainous areas. This is another fun novella , with promises of more to come from Rebecca Zanetti.
September 18, 2023
This was so sweet and I loved Serenity and Rory. Serenity was kind of fighting a losing battle there, but it was great that she made him work a bit to get her back. The action was fast-moving and this novella packed quite a bit in. Nothing felt rushed, though, and everything was resolved satisfactorily. Of course, the fun wouldn't be complete with the whole Albertini gang helping and Nonna's interference.
August 30, 2023
im a fan
Zanetti is charming - and the Anna and Aiden series is lovely. They don’t appear much in this, a few references but ends with a delightful scenario. And another brother, cousin finds a mate. With the usual tension and obstacles. This is a novella so a very quick read. Enjoy - now and again at christmas!
Zanetti is charming - and the Anna and Aiden series is lovely. They don’t appear much in this, a few references but ends with a delightful scenario. And another brother, cousin finds a mate. With the usual tension and obstacles. This is a novella so a very quick read. Enjoy - now and again at christmas!
August 30, 2023
This sweet romance takes place parallel to other events in the series. It is always fun to spend time with the Albertini family. Serenity is a genuine person who was hurt by Rory's lies and although they are understandable, no one can honestly blame her for feeling betrayed. It is a short story that brings redemption and joy!
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