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Italian Knights #1
Windows
Don't touch the hot Italian was a mantra Gina Robinson had spent the last ten years repeating to herself about her best friend, Nick Da Canaveze. She had to repeat it often, as Nick was hot beyond all reason. With a crazy-built body, a wicked sense of humour, and brains, he was the kind of man who could bring a woman pleasure with little more than a sideways glance. She had to give herself a slap on the wrist whenever she caught herself looking. And she looked...a lot.
Looking at Nick made her eyes feel good; being with Nick made her feel good. And she needed to feel good considering the state of her life. Her father had recently passed away, she was drowning in debt, and she was being hounded for money at every turn. It wasn’t the creditors who had her worried...it was those other guys. Deep down, she knew Nick could make everything better, but she wasn’t going to ruin their friendship. She really wanted to...but she couldn't. While she might playfully call him “Soprano,” Nick was her sweet dude. She could look...and fantasize...and drool discreetly, but she must not touch.
Everyone knew how Nick felt about Gina. Everyone except for Gina. Ten years was a long time to wait for the girl you love to get a clue, especially when it only took him a month to realise he wanted to worship at the altar of her body every day for the rest of his life. He’d dated other women, but all along he’d known Gina was the one for him. Gina wasn’t just good for him, she was perfect for him. She met all the requirements for the sort of woman his family would approve a) she could cook Italian better than his mother (don’t tell his mother) and b) she spoke Italian beautifully. The only problem was c) she wasn’t a nice Italian girl who would walk ten paces behind him, do everything he commanded and ask no questions. He knew C wasn’t going to happen in this lifetime, and he wouldn’t have it any other way.
All she needed to do was meet his own two love sex and love him. While he wasn’t sure if she loved sex, he’d spent many nights imagining just how much she could do. Did her beautiful chocolate skin taste as good as it looked? Would she moan his name or scream it when he brought her to climax?
Best friends for a decade, they shared everything...except what his family really did for a living. Impatient at the best of times, Nick kept telling himself to wait for the right time to reveal the truth. Then an incident that put Gina in real danger made him realise he was done waiting around. It also made him admit what everyone else already Gina was unequivocally his. No one else was going to sweep in and take what belonged to him. Da Canavezes never let anyone take from them, and only those who wanted to meet God sooner rather than later attempted such a thing.
Once he got around the whole Hi, Soprano!, Bye, Soprano!, Can you make me a cup of tea, Soprano? platonic-friendship nonsense that had up to now categorized their relationship, Nick vowed to get around to teaching her new phrases like Harder, Soprano!, Deeper, Soprano!, You're going to make me break the sound barrier when I scream out your name, Soprano!
Knowing just how independent Gina was, he decided he’d give her space to accept that being Mrs. Da Canaveze was what the future held. Of course, he’d keep giving her his intense lovemaking until he’d convinced her. After he’d “convinced” her, maybe then he'd mention what he and his family really did for a living. It might make a difference with everyone else, but he wouldn't let Gina use that to keep him away from her. He would explain it. She would definitely yell. He would put his foot down. She was his. End of story. And then all hell broke loose in the guise of his mother.
Nick finally found his hands full. He had a woman to try to keep hold of, an overbearing mother to calm down, and “business” to deal with. Gina might see the Da Canaveze name simply as the surname that would soon
Looking at Nick made her eyes feel good; being with Nick made her feel good. And she needed to feel good considering the state of her life. Her father had recently passed away, she was drowning in debt, and she was being hounded for money at every turn. It wasn’t the creditors who had her worried...it was those other guys. Deep down, she knew Nick could make everything better, but she wasn’t going to ruin their friendship. She really wanted to...but she couldn't. While she might playfully call him “Soprano,” Nick was her sweet dude. She could look...and fantasize...and drool discreetly, but she must not touch.
Everyone knew how Nick felt about Gina. Everyone except for Gina. Ten years was a long time to wait for the girl you love to get a clue, especially when it only took him a month to realise he wanted to worship at the altar of her body every day for the rest of his life. He’d dated other women, but all along he’d known Gina was the one for him. Gina wasn’t just good for him, she was perfect for him. She met all the requirements for the sort of woman his family would approve a) she could cook Italian better than his mother (don’t tell his mother) and b) she spoke Italian beautifully. The only problem was c) she wasn’t a nice Italian girl who would walk ten paces behind him, do everything he commanded and ask no questions. He knew C wasn’t going to happen in this lifetime, and he wouldn’t have it any other way.
All she needed to do was meet his own two love sex and love him. While he wasn’t sure if she loved sex, he’d spent many nights imagining just how much she could do. Did her beautiful chocolate skin taste as good as it looked? Would she moan his name or scream it when he brought her to climax?
Best friends for a decade, they shared everything...except what his family really did for a living. Impatient at the best of times, Nick kept telling himself to wait for the right time to reveal the truth. Then an incident that put Gina in real danger made him realise he was done waiting around. It also made him admit what everyone else already Gina was unequivocally his. No one else was going to sweep in and take what belonged to him. Da Canavezes never let anyone take from them, and only those who wanted to meet God sooner rather than later attempted such a thing.
Once he got around the whole Hi, Soprano!, Bye, Soprano!, Can you make me a cup of tea, Soprano? platonic-friendship nonsense that had up to now categorized their relationship, Nick vowed to get around to teaching her new phrases like Harder, Soprano!, Deeper, Soprano!, You're going to make me break the sound barrier when I scream out your name, Soprano!
Knowing just how independent Gina was, he decided he’d give her space to accept that being Mrs. Da Canaveze was what the future held. Of course, he’d keep giving her his intense lovemaking until he’d convinced her. After he’d “convinced” her, maybe then he'd mention what he and his family really did for a living. It might make a difference with everyone else, but he wouldn't let Gina use that to keep him away from her. He would explain it. She would definitely yell. He would put his foot down. She was his. End of story. And then all hell broke loose in the guise of his mother.
Nick finally found his hands full. He had a woman to try to keep hold of, an overbearing mother to calm down, and “business” to deal with. Gina might see the Da Canaveze name simply as the surname that would soon
406 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 17, 2011
85 people are currently reading
1281 people want to read
About the author
Billy London
34 books270 followersAh, poor Billy. The only girl between two boys who each have nearly a foot on her. Didn't stop her from starting physical fights with them. She still thinks she can take them. So while she used to hide away in her wardrobe to read a book or four, she started to question why the heroines in those books would just lie there and take it. No, not just sex, but downright James-Bond-backhand-slapping, do-as-you're-told-woman, inappropriate lie there and take it.
She couldn't understand it. These women were just playing that mental woman from Coming to America, Miss “Whatever You Like” who barked like a dog and hopped on one foot. Billy didn't want to do that. Definitely not because one empty-headed fool with different anatomy told her to. So she started to create characters and worlds where the women could own their sexuality, their intelligence, their right to turn around and say “jog on, mate” without apology.
The small problem was that other people wanted to read what she was had written. “Er...why?” didn't cut it as an answer. After years of prodding and pleading and come on and for goodness’ sake, what's the point otherwise, she closed her eyes and pressed “submit.” Actually, she had Prosecco, limencello and white wine, then pressed “submit.” Who would have thought people would actually enjoy reading about the crazy characters who live in her head? But they have done, and Billy feels rather proud of that connection with her fellow man.
Billy lives in London with the most patient family in the world and doesn't forget for a minute how lucky she is. Well, she wouldn't mind a BBC adaptation of one of her novels... Ooh, with Richard Armitage!
She couldn't understand it. These women were just playing that mental woman from Coming to America, Miss “Whatever You Like” who barked like a dog and hopped on one foot. Billy didn't want to do that. Definitely not because one empty-headed fool with different anatomy told her to. So she started to create characters and worlds where the women could own their sexuality, their intelligence, their right to turn around and say “jog on, mate” without apology.
The small problem was that other people wanted to read what she was had written. “Er...why?” didn't cut it as an answer. After years of prodding and pleading and come on and for goodness’ sake, what's the point otherwise, she closed her eyes and pressed “submit.” Actually, she had Prosecco, limencello and white wine, then pressed “submit.” Who would have thought people would actually enjoy reading about the crazy characters who live in her head? But they have done, and Billy feels rather proud of that connection with her fellow man.
Billy lives in London with the most patient family in the world and doesn't forget for a minute how lucky she is. Well, she wouldn't mind a BBC adaptation of one of her novels... Ooh, with Richard Armitage!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
December 27, 2015
I fell somewhat conflicted for my review for this novel. If you already read the premise of the novel you get an idea for storyline. Boy/girl (Nick/Gina) are bestfriends but deep down they have been secretly in love with each other for ten years. When the truth finally comes to the light the heroine not only finds out that his has been in love with her but he is in the mafia. Ok, first how could you have been bestfriends with someone for ten years and not know they were in a oraganized crime family. Gina attends Nick family functions, has been to his family home for years and yet didn't notice something seem a little off. Maybe I've seen to many mafia movies to think otherwise. I can see necessaraily knowing him personally but being his bestfriend for TEN years. I didn't buy it. Even if I could get pass that it said they met in college and Nick was going to school to be an accountant. Later it said he only attended one year of school but apparently she didn't know that. Now in her mind her bestfriend was an accountant, did she not go to her bestfriend's graduation or if she couldn't attend asked to see his degree to congratulate him. Did she happen to notice a lack of a degree on the wall? Her only thought was I've never been to his office. Once we get pass that the heroine decides she still wants to stay with Nick/mafia man. This is where the conflicts really start to go crazy. Gina decides she wants to stay with Nick and lead somewhat of a "normal" life. At one point Gina freaks out when she finds out that Nick keeps a gun under the bed. Not I'm a mafia/oraganized crime expert but I going to guess and say that comes with the territory. What part of Nick telling you he and his family are in oraganized crime business didn't you understand? Are you really that much in denial? Another thing that bothered me was that Gina start off as an tough, intelligent character in the beginning and I watched her character deminish as the novel progresses. Nick as much as I like him initially when his charcter comes more into light, him in the mafia not trying to get out but stays in and continues in his crime ways he lost me. That is not NOT sexy. He is a MURDERER. In the epilouge it states she still became tense when he wouldn't call for hours on end, or if he came home in the middle of the night and smelled of smoke. She never found blood, brains or lipstick on his clothing, not that she even looked for it. She was never assured of anything other than his total fidelity to her and the baby—soon to be babies, plural. They were right together, no further convincing required. ARE YOU SERIOUS?, THIS NOT A NORMAL PART OF MARRIAGE!!! Yet Gina wants their relationship to remain as normal as can be and still go out and about and continue to work. REALLY?! I would be too scared someone would try to kill me or my children in spite of him. Did she not remember it costed them their first baby? The idea of two friends being in love with each other was good idea but the hero/mafia man completely lost me. The story dragged a bit and the heroine got ony nerves living in denial but overall an "OK" read.
June 19, 2015
4.5 stars
Awwwww.... I liked this so much.
This is a friends to lovers story. But from page one you learn that Nick and Gina are in love with each other. Nick a little moresoe than Gina at first. I mean that guy is Drunk in Love, Dangerously In Love, Crazy In Love...(okay I'll stop with the Beyoncé). But seriously...dude is turnt out!
When the opportunity comes for Nick to make his feelings known to Gina he does so. She reciprocates. This happens very, very early in the book.
So the conflict isn't about them falling in love. In fact, even though the they break the seal on sex and moves the relationship far away from the platonic, their bond of friendship is so strong that it remains as the foundation for their romantic relationship. This was the thing about this book I think I loved the most. Even amongst their romantic travails, Nick and Gina always felt like the best of mates. Even their dialogue throughout the book, while peppered with words of love, still held that awesome tinge of friends who can say anything to each other, insult each other, give each other monumental shit...the only way best friends can. They were ride or die for each other.
Their romance doesn't imperil their friendship, instead their friendship is what solidifies their romance.
The conflict then comes from Nick's job. Although he and Gina had been friends for over ten years and have been (silently) in love for most of that time, Gina has no clue that Nick is basically in a mob family.
So she has to reconcile her morality with her love and affection for this man.
I love how the author allows Gina to work through that. It could have been so easy to manufacture drama and misunderstandings, but no matter how awful things got, no matter what they said to each other sometimes in the height of anger and emotion, the fact of the matter is Gina never forgets what this man means to her. So Gina always works her way back around and a lot of time she does it through some smart inner reasoning.
Hence my enjoyment of this book. It didn't follow predictable paths. There were so many times it made left turns, as it were, in the narrative.. things I just wasn't expecting. For instance, the character of Sofia was just such a left turn. She is set up to be a certain type of character. But then... she starts to talk and says things and I couldn't help but be delighted with her. In another book her materialism and cynicism would probably have made her less than sympathetic, in this one it is simply a facet of her personality that actually makes her feel honest. I loved Sofia. And I loved the relationship she and Gina developed as the book went on.
Other things...
- the dialogue was excellent. I love British slang and it is all over this book.
- It was funny in places. Gina's 'voice' is particularly fun.
- Nick understands Gina's hair issues. Over they years he has surreptitiously stocked his bathroom with her fave hair products as well as hot combs and straighteners for the times she's stayed over. Come on! This guy is Irreplaceable, Flawless (ok, more Beyoncé..sorry)
Madly enjoyed this one.
Awwwww.... I liked this so much.
This is a friends to lovers story. But from page one you learn that Nick and Gina are in love with each other. Nick a little moresoe than Gina at first. I mean that guy is Drunk in Love, Dangerously In Love, Crazy In Love...(okay I'll stop with the Beyoncé). But seriously...dude is turnt out!
When the opportunity comes for Nick to make his feelings known to Gina he does so. She reciprocates. This happens very, very early in the book.
So the conflict isn't about them falling in love. In fact, even though the they break the seal on sex and moves the relationship far away from the platonic, their bond of friendship is so strong that it remains as the foundation for their romantic relationship. This was the thing about this book I think I loved the most. Even amongst their romantic travails, Nick and Gina always felt like the best of mates. Even their dialogue throughout the book, while peppered with words of love, still held that awesome tinge of friends who can say anything to each other, insult each other, give each other monumental shit...the only way best friends can. They were ride or die for each other.
Their romance doesn't imperil their friendship, instead their friendship is what solidifies their romance.
The conflict then comes from Nick's job. Although he and Gina had been friends for over ten years and have been (silently) in love for most of that time, Gina has no clue that Nick is basically in a mob family.
So she has to reconcile her morality with her love and affection for this man.
I love how the author allows Gina to work through that. It could have been so easy to manufacture drama and misunderstandings, but no matter how awful things got, no matter what they said to each other sometimes in the height of anger and emotion, the fact of the matter is Gina never forgets what this man means to her. So Gina always works her way back around and a lot of time she does it through some smart inner reasoning.
Hence my enjoyment of this book. It didn't follow predictable paths. There were so many times it made left turns, as it were, in the narrative.. things I just wasn't expecting. For instance, the character of Sofia was just such a left turn. She is set up to be a certain type of character. But then... she starts to talk and says things and I couldn't help but be delighted with her. In another book her materialism and cynicism would probably have made her less than sympathetic, in this one it is simply a facet of her personality that actually makes her feel honest. I loved Sofia. And I loved the relationship she and Gina developed as the book went on.
Other things...
- the dialogue was excellent. I love British slang and it is all over this book.
- It was funny in places. Gina's 'voice' is particularly fun.
- Nick understands Gina's hair issues. Over they years he has surreptitiously stocked his bathroom with her fave hair products as well as hot combs and straighteners for the times she's stayed over. Come on! This guy is Irreplaceable, Flawless (ok, more Beyoncé..sorry)
Madly enjoyed this one.
January 20, 2015
Although the first few pages started off a little choppy,this captivating book was an intoxicating read that I shall not soon forget.
I say that because not only was the world-building & character development brilliantly multilayered, but the story was chockfull of snappy dialogue, delicious drama, pantymelting sensuality, and heart pounding moments of suspense.
Ms. London definitely has a gift for spinning a captivating tale, that will keep you occupied until the very last sentence.
After reading this book, I am convinced that this author belongs on my "1-click" list.
Giving this one: 5 stars for excellence!
I say that because not only was the world-building & character development brilliantly multilayered, but the story was chockfull of snappy dialogue, delicious drama, pantymelting sensuality, and heart pounding moments of suspense.
Ms. London definitely has a gift for spinning a captivating tale, that will keep you occupied until the very last sentence.
After reading this book, I am convinced that this author belongs on my "1-click" list.
Giving this one: 5 stars for excellence!
March 27, 2022
I loved it when I started reading. I thought to myself how this book could be my next 5 star read. I feel badly giving it 3 stars. Ugh, maybe it's the author's profile picture. Idk. If I really liked this one, I was planning on reading all her other books.
Gina and Nick have been best friends for 10 years. I was wondering how they were going to finally reveal their feelings for each other, because if they hadn't done it already in 10 years, what would change now?
Gina gets accosted by thugs. Nick saves her and kisses her and then they proceed to have sex. Right after, they get engaged. Then Gina finds out that Nick's with the mafia. You're telling me they've been best friends for 10 years, and she had no idea he was in the mafia? I didn't enjoy the book as much once they admitted that they loved each other.
I did like how you could tell that the two were really friends and had a connection that wasn't sexual. Too often the only connection I feel between characters in a romance is a sexual one, and I wonder what they'll be doing when they're old and that fades. Not these two. Their friendship was solid.
I do wonder if the author's name is really Billy London...
Quotes I liked
He kissed her knuckles, resting the back of her hand against his mouth. “I’ve loved you for so long. It’s enough for the both of us, if you give us the time.” “Wait, you love me? You don’t love me!” He glanced up at the utter disbelief in her voice. What the hell did she think he was talking about? “Yes, I love you. I’ve been in love with you for years.” She stared at him for a moment, mouthing the words You love me on a querying sigh. She gave a shaky laugh. “Doubtful it’s as long as I’ve loved you. But that’s just semantics, right?” “What?” His voice whip-cracked around the room. “What did you just say?”
Anyone else who was remotely similar would inevitably be compared to Nick and fail. They didn’t have his sense of humour; they didn’t understand money like Nick, or have a London accent iced with Italian. They weren’t six feet three inches tall, they didn’t have his buttery skin or his eyelashes, or wear rosary beads around their wrist because “It’s religion and not a fashion statement. Fucking Dolce and Gabbana,” and they weren’t him. No one else was him or had even come close in ten years.
This was wrong, it was all wrong—her friend, her best friend, had his finger inside her cunt, twisting as he searched for the spot that would make her his completely.
*Another one that's too vulgar to add here*
He leaned over to his bedside drawer and pulled out the ring box. “I’ve been carrying this around for the past five years. If this doesn’t tell you I’m bloody serious, then I’ll really just have to get you pregnant.”
You have got taste. Is she a screamer? She looks like she’d make your neighbours call the police.”
Gina and Nick have been best friends for 10 years. I was wondering how they were going to finally reveal their feelings for each other, because if they hadn't done it already in 10 years, what would change now?
Gina gets accosted by thugs. Nick saves her and kisses her and then they proceed to have sex. Right after, they get engaged. Then Gina finds out that Nick's with the mafia. You're telling me they've been best friends for 10 years, and she had no idea he was in the mafia? I didn't enjoy the book as much once they admitted that they loved each other.
I did like how you could tell that the two were really friends and had a connection that wasn't sexual. Too often the only connection I feel between characters in a romance is a sexual one, and I wonder what they'll be doing when they're old and that fades. Not these two. Their friendship was solid.
I do wonder if the author's name is really Billy London...
Quotes I liked
He kissed her knuckles, resting the back of her hand against his mouth. “I’ve loved you for so long. It’s enough for the both of us, if you give us the time.” “Wait, you love me? You don’t love me!” He glanced up at the utter disbelief in her voice. What the hell did she think he was talking about? “Yes, I love you. I’ve been in love with you for years.” She stared at him for a moment, mouthing the words You love me on a querying sigh. She gave a shaky laugh. “Doubtful it’s as long as I’ve loved you. But that’s just semantics, right?” “What?” His voice whip-cracked around the room. “What did you just say?”
Anyone else who was remotely similar would inevitably be compared to Nick and fail. They didn’t have his sense of humour; they didn’t understand money like Nick, or have a London accent iced with Italian. They weren’t six feet three inches tall, they didn’t have his buttery skin or his eyelashes, or wear rosary beads around their wrist because “It’s religion and not a fashion statement. Fucking Dolce and Gabbana,” and they weren’t him. No one else was him or had even come close in ten years.
This was wrong, it was all wrong—her friend, her best friend, had his finger inside her cunt, twisting as he searched for the spot that would make her his completely.
*Another one that's too vulgar to add here*
He leaned over to his bedside drawer and pulled out the ring box. “I’ve been carrying this around for the past five years. If this doesn’t tell you I’m bloody serious, then I’ll really just have to get you pregnant.”
You have got taste. Is she a screamer? She looks like she’d make your neighbours call the police.”
October 26, 2017
My new favourite author!
This book was fantastic! This was a friends to lovers story. Nick and Gina had known each other for several years so the friendship was already there and you could see/feel they were close already. They both loved each other but never acted on it. They would both date women and men who were as different from each other as possible. Race was not made an issue in this book which I loved. It was just two friends who found out they loved each other.
The dialogue between the characters were funny as hell. I loved the British slang in there (kudos for the author for adding a glossary at the beginning for those who are not familiar with British slang). And it was set in LONDON! Yes!!! And it was as far from the 'Bridget Jones' romance type books.
I loved Sofia. She made no excuses for how she acted which I loved. She told it like it was. Some may not like her but at least she never made excuses or pretend to like anybody.
Mrs. De Canaveze's (Nick's mother) behaviour completely baffled me at first. I mean Nick and Gina had been friends for 10 years, everyone and baby Jesus knew he was besotted with her so the possibility of them one day getting together shouldn't have been a surprise but for her to behave the way she did really baffled me.
If you like good interracial romances with witty banter and a good guy with a bit of an edge then this book is for you.
This book was fantastic! This was a friends to lovers story. Nick and Gina had known each other for several years so the friendship was already there and you could see/feel they were close already. They both loved each other but never acted on it. They would both date women and men who were as different from each other as possible. Race was not made an issue in this book which I loved. It was just two friends who found out they loved each other.
The dialogue between the characters were funny as hell. I loved the British slang in there (kudos for the author for adding a glossary at the beginning for those who are not familiar with British slang). And it was set in LONDON! Yes!!! And it was as far from the 'Bridget Jones' romance type books.
I loved Sofia. She made no excuses for how she acted which I loved. She told it like it was. Some may not like her but at least she never made excuses or pretend to like anybody.
Mrs. De Canaveze's (Nick's mother) behaviour completely baffled me at first. I mean Nick and Gina had been friends for 10 years, everyone and baby Jesus knew he was besotted with her so the possibility of them one day getting together shouldn't have been a surprise but for her to behave the way she did really baffled me.
If you like good interracial romances with witty banter and a good guy with a bit of an edge then this book is for you.
September 25, 2012
Choice between love and moral dilemma. Solid 3 1/2 stars.
I buy a LOT OF BOOKS. And this one has been on my Kindle Wishlist for sometime due to price (I've been burned before so I had to watch reviews before I would commit). Anyway, I have to say that I got my money's worth with this one.
Read in one sitting from cover to cover and was thrilled with the over-all result (even though I figured out the villain pretty early on, which I thought was actually kind of weak - but hey it wasn't my story, so I went with it.)
I had a hard time putting this book down, partly because of the easy camaraderie and witty banter between Nic and Gina. I like these friends to lovers' story lines. I was a bit concerned that Gina would wimp out on Nic and that would have really pissed me off. I fully understand the choice to be a "mob wife" can be really hard and it can freak you out a bit but she KNEW this man long before his "profession" came to light and some of the freak outs were a bit much.
All in all, I'm glad it worked out. Ms. London did a really good job with character development and the back story helped lift it up. I'd say it was well written and I would definitely buy more from this author. (It's a solid 3 1/2 stars but because of Amazon's rating restrictions it gets bummed up to 4stars - cause I can't justify giving it a 3).
I buy a LOT OF BOOKS. And this one has been on my Kindle Wishlist for sometime due to price (I've been burned before so I had to watch reviews before I would commit). Anyway, I have to say that I got my money's worth with this one.
Read in one sitting from cover to cover and was thrilled with the over-all result (even though I figured out the villain pretty early on, which I thought was actually kind of weak - but hey it wasn't my story, so I went with it.)
I had a hard time putting this book down, partly because of the easy camaraderie and witty banter between Nic and Gina. I like these friends to lovers' story lines. I was a bit concerned that Gina would wimp out on Nic and that would have really pissed me off. I fully understand the choice to be a "mob wife" can be really hard and it can freak you out a bit but she KNEW this man long before his "profession" came to light and some of the freak outs were a bit much.
All in all, I'm glad it worked out. Ms. London did a really good job with character development and the back story helped lift it up. I'd say it was well written and I would definitely buy more from this author. (It's a solid 3 1/2 stars but because of Amazon's rating restrictions it gets bummed up to 4stars - cause I can't justify giving it a 3).
April 24, 2014
Wish I could've given this 10 stars. It's quite possibly my favorite book. It has everything I ever wanted in a book in my entire life. Sexy Italian? Check. Besotted hero? Check. Nice mob guy? Check. Hilarious and hot best friend? Check. Interracial couple? Check. Friends to lovers? Check. Relationship on the express train? Check.
Intrigue, romance and wit, this book just had me. I think I've read it just about 100 times by now. I love me some Nick And I don't think I'll ever get enough. If you like interracial romances or good guys with an edge...this is the book for you. Enjoy!
Intrigue, romance and wit, this book just had me. I think I've read it just about 100 times by now. I love me some Nick And I don't think I'll ever get enough. If you like interracial romances or good guys with an edge...this is the book for you. Enjoy!
March 16, 2016
This book gave me everything I was expecting and then some. It felt like because the characters had waited so long for everything to begin the pacing of the book was perfect.
I loved how Gina and Nick fought for each other, I enjoyed each and every single fight they had and they were truly best friends before everything else. I am grateful for the hotter scenes, Billy London's mind is a beautiful cocoa pod.
I mean the genius of the antagonist in this book, had me pausing and reflecting. I mean the level of pure psycho pettiness and planning alone, SMH!!
I loved how Gina and Nick fought for each other, I enjoyed each and every single fight they had and they were truly best friends before everything else. I am grateful for the hotter scenes, Billy London's mind is a beautiful cocoa pod.
I mean the genius of the antagonist in this book, had me pausing and reflecting. I mean the level of pure psycho pettiness and planning alone, SMH!!
February 25, 2012
It is a good read where the location is London and the story is set at a good pace.
However I find the female lead a bit irritating as she just goes off and does her own thing instead of stopping and using her "noodle" (brains). Asking for help is not a bad thing, of course asking who may be.... LOL
Its best to read the other book before this one, as it helps set the scene somewhat.
Go for it and have a read!
However I find the female lead a bit irritating as she just goes off and does her own thing instead of stopping and using her "noodle" (brains). Asking for help is not a bad thing, of course asking who may be.... LOL
Its best to read the other book before this one, as it helps set the scene somewhat.
Go for it and have a read!
May 18, 2012
I liked this Story I loved Nick and Gina This story was well written and I could hear the accents coming off the page . I really enjoyed this book I loved that Nick and Gina felt the same way about each other and did not know it. I was happy the gave in right away. I liked the suspense and drama in the story it took me by surprise who the traitor was. This is my second book by Billy London and it will not be my last .
January 18, 2015
DNF - based on all of the reviews I read, I thought this would be a great read. What can I say, I'm a sucker for a hot cover. What a disappointment. :-( I found both the H/h to be very immature in thought and actions. They just annoyed me to no end. I could not with a good conscious persuade myself to finish this book.
I rarely return books. If I could get a refund, this is a book I would definitely return.
I rarely return books. If I could get a refund, this is a book I would definitely return.
June 25, 2015
I have had this book for a while now and have not gotten around to reading it until now.
This is book 1 in the series and its Nick and Gina's story.
I enjoyed the story, I do agree that Nick and Gina do come over as a very young couple but it was still an entertaining read. I am looking forward to reading the other 4 books in the series.
This is book 1 in the series and its Nick and Gina's story.
I enjoyed the story, I do agree that Nick and Gina do come over as a very young couple but it was still an entertaining read. I am looking forward to reading the other 4 books in the series.
November 3, 2015
OMG this was really really bad. I would like to write a long review for this book. However it would be a waste of my time and i already wasted enough time reading the sodding book. Another thing, please don't have your English characters say dude all the bloody time, like they are some American teenage boy high on weed.
November 12, 2012
I admit to having a little bit of a mob fetish so it's wonderful to find that element in an interracial romance novel. This book is very engaging. If you are fan of the Medlov Crime Family series you should give this book a try.
March 17, 2014
Great great read! Loved the action, the wit and humor and the gangsters of course!
January 9, 2015
Loved it
Gina and Nick are the power couple, they are each other Zen. You just have to read it, love their attraction. It is hot!
Gina and Nick are the power couple, they are each other Zen. You just have to read it, love their attraction. It is hot!
July 15, 2021
DNF after 42%.
I really wanted to like this book. There just wasn’t much to like.
The narrative was muddy. The transitions between characters’ internal dialogues (which were wordy) were hard to follow. The plot was unoriginal and the execution made it that much worse.
It just felt silly. Just not for me.
I really wanted to like this book. There just wasn’t much to like.
The narrative was muddy. The transitions between characters’ internal dialogues (which were wordy) were hard to follow. The plot was unoriginal and the execution made it that much worse.
It just felt silly. Just not for me.
February 16, 2018
4.00 Stars. I'm a huge fan and reader of friends to lovers stores; but mafia-not so much. I was pleased that this author combined these two elements without overburdening the story with too much mafia intrigue. There was lots of good believable dialogue and interaction between the main and minor characters. Although the friendship between Nick and Gina is in its tenth year, it started when the protagonists were nineteen year old college Freshman and with each of them wanting more than the platonic facade they portrayed. Nicholas "Nick" Da Cabaveze and Georgina "Gina" Robinson met when Nick had a girlfriend and because of that, he and Gina did not express or act on their romantic feelings for each other; instead, accepted that by developing a deep and lasting friendship, each could maintain an intricate place in the other's life. Gina knew Nick was wealthy and thought he headed his family's multi-billionaire accounting firm; but when she finds herself in the cross hairs of a loan shark as a result of her deceased father's business dealings, her pride and independent spirit doesn't allow her to seek out Nick for assistance. Nick finds out about her dilemma and rescues her from the goons of the lender who break into her home and nearly raped her. He takes her to his house, scolds her for not telling him about the situation, makes mad pent up passionate love with her and they open up about being in love and he gives her an engagement ring. Nick's mother finds out about the engagement and works to end their relationship by telling Gina that Nick heads their Italian Mafia Enterprise. Nick and Gina along with Nick's brother, Paul, and his wife, Sofia go through personal hurdles and mafia related trauma; but in the end, Nick and Gina marry and have kids and Paul and Sofia rekindle their dysfunctional marriage and all live happily ever after.
November 21, 2012
I really enjoyed this story a lot. Nick was that hot guy you always wanted to be with, but you knew he was off limits because every other woman wanted him too. I loved Gina's wise cracks and I enjoyed the ease at which these two characters meshed after years of friendship. The characters were engaging and I loved the story line. What kept me from a higher rating was the actual writing. There were too many shifts in point of view and I had to re-read a lot, to figure out who was saying what and that's a big distraction. Also, the British slang and grammar caught me a little off guard. I wasn't sure what characters were talking about. Overall, the characters and plot kept me eager to read more and that's the most important thing. I can't wait to see what happens next in the series.
July 21, 2015
I really wanted to love this but any enjoyment that I got was wiped away when the author decided to use the term "gay" as an insult.
I liked the ending I was sort of surprised at who the accomplice was, but when you thought about everything and paid more attention it wasn't that hard to guess. Something that annoyed me was for 10 years Gina couldn't even guess that Nick was in the mafia or that he had feelings for her. That I find incredibly hard to believe.
I'm just bummed that I couldn't enjoy this like I wished I had.
I liked the ending I was sort of surprised at who the accomplice was, but when you thought about everything and paid more attention it wasn't that hard to guess. Something that annoyed me was for 10 years Gina couldn't even guess that Nick was in the mafia or that he had feelings for her. That I find incredibly hard to believe.
I'm just bummed that I couldn't enjoy this like I wished I had.
August 6, 2014
This book was so good, I actually toyed with the idea of, learning Italian and finding my own Italian Mafia (as though they litter the streets of London).
I loved Nick's and Gina's repartee, they weren't just lovers - but best friend's and that showed in their banter. I loved that they had issues that they worked through together without the whole story line being based on misunderstandings.
I really like Ms London's writing style and I very much enjoyed this book.
I loved Nick's and Gina's repartee, they weren't just lovers - but best friend's and that showed in their banter. I loved that they had issues that they worked through together without the whole story line being based on misunderstandings.
I really like Ms London's writing style and I very much enjoyed this book.
July 25, 2012
Loved it, loved it, LOVED it! definitely not what i was expecting and i was sure i was going to lose interest with the mafia theme...how wrong i was! The book was well written and fast paced without unnecessarily drawn out misunderstandings between the hero and heroine. Now reading all the books by billy london i can find!
February 24, 2012
Uh, wow not what I expected at all.
The blurb implies a unrequited love story. It is that. Nick just happens to be a stereotype - he's an italian mafia boss.
Surprisingly it's still quite a good story
The blurb implies a unrequited love story. It is that. Nick just happens to be a stereotype - he's an italian mafia boss.
Surprisingly it's still quite a good story
September 24, 2014
Good beginning
This is an excellent foundation for the series. I tried to read the last story, but too many details were missed. Interactions between the h/h are funny, sexy and over the top. It's a fresh take on an old theme. Don't pass this read by.
This is an excellent foundation for the series. I tried to read the last story, but too many details were missed. Interactions between the h/h are funny, sexy and over the top. It's a fresh take on an old theme. Don't pass this read by.
May 28, 2018
I thought I'd be all over this given I love that type of storyline but it was just moving too quick to get into it.
September 15, 2017
She couldn’t fathom him walking into Tiffany & Co. and saying, “It’s for my best friend. No, she has no idea. I figure I’ll overpower her with my c**k first, then propose.”
Finally, an interracial bestie romance that makes sense!
Why?
1. Their age. I swear, having older characters with years of friendship behind them translates much better.
2. They're neurotic. Affectionate names like Tosspot and Mental are signs of how comfortable they are with one another. Not to mention their own musings about what they wanted from life, from each other.
She wanted this, she’d wanted this for years, Nick, a baby, a home with a stripper pole in the bedroom...
3. Gina moonlighting as an amateur stripper. What better way to curb sexual fantasies than hamming it up in front of strangers? Yea Ginas in my top 3 Interracial Heroines.
4. Cray-Cray familia. Oedipus tendencies, brother jealousy, infidelity, crazy Aunt invoking ancient tribal rites, ex-lover who's the current sister in law, staunch friends - get the picture?
5. The Thailand Vacation. Wish I could do this with my Mateys older brother. Sigh.
6. It's sexy. Unlike other reads it's super sexy without being OTT.
7. It's funny. Seriously these two would go well with my Chicken suit wearing, tequila guzzling, part time kidnapping, mate. I almost shared my wild ravings about Nick & Gina on Facebook to said chicken guy. But that would mean admitting to my ultra conservative relations that I read, and condone, this kinda behavior. Hmm, maybe I should post. It would definitely make for some interesting times lol
8. There's guns! What's the use in having hot coitus if there isn't a little danger?
9. I finished the read within 20hrs. Ok I could have finished it earlier but the life of a full time worker / domestic Goddess / mediator takes precedence. But don't mistake my inability to prioritize this amazeballs book as a sign of mediocrity. This author has seriously jumped into my top listings.
10. However... yea here's the "but". Referencing movies, tv shows and actors/actresses that are British threw me a little. Some of the jokes I couldn't quite grasp because of slang used and there were parts that the past/present tense got muddled. Other than that, it's peachy king!
So, now I'm about to roll outta bed, do some laundry, check my work emails, make myself a cuppa and get down with Italian Knights #2.
Happy reading xx
Finally, an interracial bestie romance that makes sense!
Why?
1. Their age. I swear, having older characters with years of friendship behind them translates much better.
2. They're neurotic. Affectionate names like Tosspot and Mental are signs of how comfortable they are with one another. Not to mention their own musings about what they wanted from life, from each other.
She wanted this, she’d wanted this for years, Nick, a baby, a home with a stripper pole in the bedroom...
3. Gina moonlighting as an amateur stripper. What better way to curb sexual fantasies than hamming it up in front of strangers? Yea Ginas in my top 3 Interracial Heroines.
4. Cray-Cray familia. Oedipus tendencies, brother jealousy, infidelity, crazy Aunt invoking ancient tribal rites, ex-lover who's the current sister in law, staunch friends - get the picture?
5. The Thailand Vacation. Wish I could do this with my Mateys older brother. Sigh.
6. It's sexy. Unlike other reads it's super sexy without being OTT.
7. It's funny. Seriously these two would go well with my Chicken suit wearing, tequila guzzling, part time kidnapping, mate. I almost shared my wild ravings about Nick & Gina on Facebook to said chicken guy. But that would mean admitting to my ultra conservative relations that I read, and condone, this kinda behavior. Hmm, maybe I should post. It would definitely make for some interesting times lol
8. There's guns! What's the use in having hot coitus if there isn't a little danger?
9. I finished the read within 20hrs. Ok I could have finished it earlier but the life of a full time worker / domestic Goddess / mediator takes precedence. But don't mistake my inability to prioritize this amazeballs book as a sign of mediocrity. This author has seriously jumped into my top listings.
10. However... yea here's the "but". Referencing movies, tv shows and actors/actresses that are British threw me a little. Some of the jokes I couldn't quite grasp because of slang used and there were parts that the past/present tense got muddled. Other than that, it's peachy king!
So, now I'm about to roll outta bed, do some laundry, check my work emails, make myself a cuppa and get down with Italian Knights #2.
Happy reading xx
September 17, 2018
Sometimes the devil you know is in the family
Wow...this was a rollercoaster ride. All of the secrets came out in the end. Georgina Robinson and Nicholas Da Canaveze were best friends from the time they met in college in history class at the age of nineteen. For ten years, they were both secretly in love with each other, too afraid of taking the next step, not wanting to risk losing their friendship and watching each other date other people until Nick could not take it any longer. They took their relationship all the way from friendship to engagement. Not everyone was happy about their relationship and started scheming to get control of the family business using Nick's weakness, Gina.
Billy wrote an interesting suspense filled drama about two people adjusting to the realization that they loved each other. Gina had the added burden of trying to adjust to the reality of what the family business entailed. She came to the understanding that Nick was her only family now and life was only worth living with him in her life. They could work out their problems as long as they were together. That mother Mary Alice was a trip, the devil incarnate responsible for so much agony!
Wow...this was a rollercoaster ride. All of the secrets came out in the end. Georgina Robinson and Nicholas Da Canaveze were best friends from the time they met in college in history class at the age of nineteen. For ten years, they were both secretly in love with each other, too afraid of taking the next step, not wanting to risk losing their friendship and watching each other date other people until Nick could not take it any longer. They took their relationship all the way from friendship to engagement. Not everyone was happy about their relationship and started scheming to get control of the family business using Nick's weakness, Gina.
Billy wrote an interesting suspense filled drama about two people adjusting to the realization that they loved each other. Gina had the added burden of trying to adjust to the reality of what the family business entailed. She came to the understanding that Nick was her only family now and life was only worth living with him in her life. They could work out their problems as long as they were together. That mother Mary Alice was a trip, the devil incarnate responsible for so much agony!
May 5, 2021
Mommy dearest to the extreme
Best friends Gina and Nick have been in love with each other for 10 years, and of course neither wants to tell the other. After a scary encounter at her home that Nick saves her from, he finally confesses his feelings and their relationship is off and running. Along the way Gina not only is coming to terms with the fact her best friends loves her just as she loves him, but he’s also a mob boss. There’s also someone I’m the shadows who won’t let them just be happy.
Good read overall!
Best friends Gina and Nick have been in love with each other for 10 years, and of course neither wants to tell the other. After a scary encounter at her home that Nick saves her from, he finally confesses his feelings and their relationship is off and running. Along the way Gina not only is coming to terms with the fact her best friends loves her just as she loves him, but he’s also a mob boss. There’s also someone I’m the shadows who won’t let them just be happy.
Good read overall!
May 31, 2021
The characters are childish and immature. The writing is aiming for mature adult who are in their early twenties, but I feel that Billy London is trying too hard to be "one of the kids." Kinda like this meme.
It's just very mediocre writing, story, and characters. The logic in the novel is fallible.
It's just very mediocre writing, story, and characters. The logic in the novel is fallible.
February 17, 2024
I love when we have the couple together during most of the book!! cute!
Sometimes Gina irritated the life of me, but she always recognized when she was overreacting and apologized that was nice! Loved the relationship with Sof, PERFECT!!
I feel like the 10-year prologue could have been more explored so we could understand why they weren't dating!!!
Sometimes Gina irritated the life of me, but she always recognized when she was overreacting and apologized that was nice! Loved the relationship with Sof, PERFECT!!
I feel like the 10-year prologue could have been more explored so we could understand why they weren't dating!!!
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