Broken Protector

Gentle Sinners #1

by Amber Warden

Nera never wants to be a burden. After an accident she can’t remember leaves her partially blind, Nera struggles against her sheltered life. Acceptance to culinary school is an opportunity to test her limits. Her only regret is that she’ll no longer catch glimpses of the man she’s loved ever since she was a child. Giovanni is dangerous and gorgeous and out of her league. Giovanni always watches over her. During the shared dark incident in their past, Giovanni vowed to protect Nera as she once protected him. Someone sweet and kind like her was never meant to be touched by the mafia world he was born into. Soon she’ll be out of reach and safe from his failures. Only when he goes to her family’s bakery one last time, she does the unthinkable and saves him yet again, despite the painful consequences. Hiding her at his estate brings a comfort that Giovanni has never known, but Nera pushes for a life at his side. Soon he spirals into an obsession for the less than innocent woman his savior has become. But when they survive another mafia hit, Giovanni realizes that Nera has been the one targeted all along. A hidden enemy wants Giovanni to feel the devastating pain of losing the one he loves. Nera isn’t afraid. She revels in his need to kill anyone that might threaten her. She’ll even strike first if it will keep them together a moment longer. With wounded but vengeful heroines and protective, morally gray heroes, the Gentle Sinners series contains interconnected standalones with steamy, open door scenes and no cliff hangers. Amber Warden’s stories often include characters overcoming tragic pasts or current hardships and may include situations that not everyone would like to read. Content notes are included inside to help you decide if this story is for you.

Genres: Mafia Romance, Dark, Friends To Lovers, Romance, Dark Romance, Forced Proximity

299 pages, Paperback

Published June 26, 2023

About the author

A former numbers cruncher, Amber Warden left the accounting world to write emotional and steamy contemporary romance instead.

Her main hope is for those reading to take away the feeling that they are more than enough for anyone.

When she's not writing, she's reading shoujo manga, playing otome games, and listening to her favorite J-rock music.

She'd love to hear from her readers:

amberwardenauthor@gmail.com

Instagram @amberwardenwrites

Facebook @amberwardenauthor

Reviews

[SGetch · Rating 5 out of 5]

I fell in love with Broken Protector by Amber Warden right from the first chapter! This tantalizing mafia romance is full of charm and raw emotion. It chronicles the journey of Nera Carmen and Giovanni Di Salvo as they grapple with danger, betrayal, secrets, and their intense love for each other.

Nera and Giovanni's relationship began as children. He and his mother would often visit Nera's parents' bakery. On one of Giovanni's visits, he and Nera are kidnapped. During the abduction, Nera lost part of her eyesight while saving Giovanni's life, but this wouldn't be the last time she risked everything for him.

I'm not exactly sure of the age difference between them, but later we find out that Giovanni has secretly been providing for Nera while she adjusted to her partial blindness. Giovanni blames himself for what happened and keeps his distance from Nera. Despite all the suffering he has endured and witnessed, he is a gentle and exceptional man. He quickly captured my heart!

When Nera's life is threatened again years later, they are forced to acknowledge their unique connection. The yearning and sexual tension between them are palpable; Nera's strength and confidence help Giovanni become the man he's meant to be. I loved every page of their journey!

The way Amber Warden writes these characters and their emotions is impressive. I'm eager to read more of her work and see what happens next in this series!

Dual POV
Safety / Content Warning: profanity, violence/murder/torture/patricide, kidnapping, child abuse/neglect, off-page death of children, mentions of marital abuse/rape (not between MCs), discussion of worthlessness and wanting to be unalive, on-page sex.
No cheating or sharing. No ow/om drama. Hero is a virgin.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[**Tessa** (semi hiatus) · Rating 1 out of 5]

DNF 23% didn’t connect with either MC
For so much action happening it was so boring.
This is the second book I’m DNFing today bc of the whole “I’m not good enough/ I can’t have her” trope. Man the fuck up and get your woman.

[sashenka 🖤 · Rating 3 out of 5]

3,5 ⭐

Strong FMC x vulnerable MMC is my shit guys, I'm telling you.
Not much happened except attemps on her life but meh. and Gio senior bullying his son. But I liked it, I love Amber Warden writting. It's just that sometimes, I was bored.

[Dee · Rating 5 out of 5]

The start of the Gentle Sinners series each with two broken people yet one more broken than the other and the help they provide to each other. Giovanni sexy as all get out broken man who has been beaten down by his family, self-esteem is not where it should be and met a young woman when they were both young who showed him, he is so much more than what his family calls/tells him I like that we get to see a softer side of a mafia man which is sometimes good often they are hard, callous, mean, grumpy, arrogant the list goes on so I like that this one was certainly different. Nera was a sweetheart her family owned a bakery growing up she loved to back, she was sunshine despite the lose of her parents while so young and working with impaired vision due to an accident still she doesn’t let that stop her from seeing everyday as a blessing when she loves, she loves completely. Both remember how they were growing up the were different sides to the same coin, the attraction is instant actually it was there when they were kids and the magnetic pull between them won’t allow him to walk away from his girl he will be anything /everything she needs making sure she is safe / protected at all times due to her eyesight but not everything works well together like the two of them especially when secrets come to light, trying to stay positive with trying to understand why the bratva on attack, will he every understand why his family treated him so badly, and can they find some much needed peace, and happiness?

[Chase N · Rating 4 out of 5]

Plot: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Charcters: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Suspense/Thrill: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Spice: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.75

Broken Protector by Amber Warden: A Romance of Grit, Heartbreak, and Healing

Amber Warden’s Broken Protector delivers an emotional mix of angst, romance, and resilience within the dangerous world of the Mafia. This story goes beyond typical tropes to explore deeper themes of trauma, healing, and acceptance. Though it hints at Grumpy x Sunshine dynamics, it’s more a story of two people colored by different shades of darkness and light—Giovanni, the brooding hero, and Nera, the strong and caring heroine.

Nera is a standout in the realm of romantic protagonists. As a plus-size character with disability representation, she’s portrayed as fiercely independent and protective. Her blindness and repressed memories of their traumatic past add layers to her character, emphasizing her resilience. Touch, as her love language, beautifully complements Giovanni’s more guarded nature and creates tender, heartfelt moments that highlight her warmth.

Giovanni’s character, defined by his tragic past and strained relationship with his father, embodies the classic tortured hero. He’s fully aware of his dark role within his world, yet Nera’s acceptance of him—flaws and all—acts as the emotional linchpin of their romance. Her insistence that Giovanni is worthy of love brings depth to their relationship and intensifies the angst that permeates their interactions. The forced proximity trope only amplifies their bond, making their shared trauma and contrasting coping mechanisms all the more poignant.

The story’s strengths lie in the character-driven moments. The protective, healing nature of their relationship is heartwarming, and the way they uplift one another is genuine. However, while the romance captivates, the plot as a whole can feel uneven. The third-person POV might trip up readers unfamiliar with its shifts, and the ending, while neatly tied up, lacks a clear buildup and can feel abrupt.

Broken Protector won’t revolutionize the genre, but it’s a strong read for fans of angst-filled Mafia romances. The emotional journey of Giovanni and Nera is a testament to love’s power to redeem and heal, making it a worthwhile pick for readers seeking depth in their romance. Whether the rest of the series will be as compelling remains to be seen, but Antonio’s story might still pique some interest.

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nera is a ball of sunshine. She loves to bake, having grown up in a bakery, and even though she lost her parents at a young age and has impaired vision due to an accident, she isn’t afraid to share her kindness and thoughts with others and will fight for what she wants. Nera also will take a bullet for those she cares about and her I’ll jump into action any time trouble brews.

Giovanni is somewhat closed off from others and trusts very few people. He may be inexperienced at some things and and goes through a though time growing up, never being fully accepted by his family, but he can be ruthless and protective for those he cares about. He does go through some transformation in this book, having always doubted himself but soon embraces his future.

These two! They meet as children and with Nera’s forthrightness, they are like two peas in a pod, even when Giovanni may seem distant. But you can tell early just how deeply he cares for Nera. They have shared experiences, and Giovanni becomes Nera’s gentle protector while Nera continues to be his source of comfort and happiness. She understands Giovanni even better than himself at times. Nera also takes things in stride and shows she is a force to be reckoned with while Giovanni will show just how far he will go for Nera. These two make you cheer and hug yourself with their story.

We also have the underlying mystery of why the Bratva has been attacking. The suspense of this kept me guessing, and we slowly unravel different truths and secrets. We also have side characters to round out the cast, with Antonio and Enzo, Giovanni's cousin and uncle being his closest confidantes and Nera’s shadows, as well as Mylene and Tomasso, Nera’s guardians after her parents passed. We also meet other characters who it’s seems will have their own stories and I cannot wait!

Overall, this was an engaging read, one I think I’ll keep thinking about. I look forward to seeing what’s in store.

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

[Sheila M. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, this book was awesome! Everyone needs a protector like Giovanni. Nera Carmen, partially blind due to an accident, has loved Giovanni Di Salvo since she was a little girl, but he never felt like he deserved her love and adoration. Giovanni is a capo and killer for his father’s mafia family, yet, he has a gentleness for Nera and has been her secret protector for years. Giovanni’s father is a violent, brutal man, incapable of loving his own son, and is becoming increasingly aggressive toward Giovanni. Gio is afraid to love Nera because he is afraid to be like his father, who brutalized not only his son, but Gio’s mother too. A series of attacks bring them to conclude that Nera is the target, not Gio. It is then discovered that the hit originated from within the Di Salvo family, and loyalties are questioned.

This story is deeply emotional on many levels, depending on the character. There are also many twists, and the suspense will leave you on the edge of your seat. Just when I thought I had guessed what would happen next, I would be wrong. I did not correctly guess the ultimate betrayal and consequences disclosed at the ending. The book was refreshing in that the MMC is a virgin, and the FMC has to help him learn his way around the bedroom. It was sweet. Also, I expected that blind FMC to be weak and needing protection, but the reality was that she was actually an unflinchingly strong woman and helped save GIO more than once.

There are lots of supporting characters, with my favorite being Nera’s deeply loyal guardian, Tommaso, who has loved and protected Nera since the death of her parents. He cares for her in a humorous and gentle way, but he still lets her try to do anything she wants in an effort to make her more independent. Some of the Di Salvo mafia men were downright scary, and that is a testament to the skillful writing of Ms. Warden, making me feel afraid for the MCs. I look forward to reading more of this author’s work.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Arya Dhaigude · Rating 4 out of 5]

What Worked:
The storyline is gripping, unfolding layers of tension and emotion with each turn of the page. Warden skillfully crafts a narrative where past trauma and current struggles collide, weaving a tale that kept me hooked from start to finish. The vulnerability of Giovanni, an unexpected twist for a mafia heir, adds a refreshing dimension to the traditional trope.

The author excels in portraying the intense dynamics between the characters, especially the wounded yet resilient Nera. The emotional depth in Giovanni's protective instincts and Nera's determination to overcome her limitations resonates throughout the narrative, evoking genuine empathy from the reader.

What Surprised:
The unexpected role reversal of a strong female lead paired with a vulnerable mafia heir was a pleasant surprise. It defies conventional expectations, injecting a unique flavor into the narrative. The author's ability to create a compelling plot and maintain a level of suspense is commendable.

Room for Improvement:
While the story is engaging, the characterization may leave some readers wanting more. Giovanni's trauma is deeply explored, but Nera's strength, although portrayed, might not translate into the expected 'strong lead.' The dynamics between them, though touching, might not align with typical mafia romance tropes.

"Broken Protector, Gentle Sinners" is a one-time emotional rollercoaster, providing a fresh take on the mafia romance genre. The narrative delves into uncharted territories, challenging stereotypes and delivering unexpected twists. While it may not find a spot on my reread list, the emotional impact and unique character dynamics make it a worthwhile read for those seeking a departure from the norm.

Amber Warden's ability to evoke tears and craft an unconventional love story deserves applause. If you're ready for a journey into the unexpected, "Broken Protector" awaits.

[Joanne Barton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nera never wants to be a burden.

After an accident she can’t remember leaves her partially blind, Nera struggles against her sheltered life. Acceptance to culinary school is an opportunity to test her limits. Her only regret is that she’ll no longer catch glimpses of the man she’s loved ever since she was a child. Giovanni is dangerous and gorgeous and out of her league.

Giovanni always watches over her.

During the shared dark incident in their past, Giovanni vowed to protect Nera as she once protected him. Someone sweet and kind like her was never meant to be touched by the mafia world he was born into. Soon she’ll be out of reach and safe from his failures. Only when he goes to her family’s bakery one last time, she does the unthinkable and saves him yet again, despite the painful consequences.

Hiding her at his estate brings a comfort that Giovanni has never known, but Nera pushes for more: a life at his side. Soon he spirals into an obsession for the less than innocent woman his savior has become.
But when they survive another mafia hit, Giovanni realizes that Nera has been the one targeted all along. A hidden enemy wants Giovanni to feel the devastating pain of losing the one he loves.

Nera isn’t afraid. She revels in his need to kill anyone that might threaten her. She’ll even strike first if it will keep them together a moment longer.

This is the first book of Amber’s that I have read and most definitely will not be last last! Both the characters, Nera and Giovanni, are both delightful and engaging. Both are “broken” in their own way but come together as one - fixing each other along the way. I read in one night (yes, it was a long one) as I could not put it down. Looking forward to the next book in the series! Highly recommended
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

[Ashley · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked the story and how different the main characters are from usual characters we see especially in mafia style books. Nera, our mfc was strong and capable despite her disabilities and limitations. And honestly for the majority of the book she came off stronger than her LI our mmc Giovanni. He was good at his role when it came to mafia business, but couldn't and didn't protect himself from things he dealt with closer to home. At first I thought maybe he was biding his time and had a plan of action to get rid of the problem and have a hostile takeover of sorts, but it seems everyone else around him, allies, family and nera thought the same, but not him. He came off a bit weak and scared sometimes and seemed emotionally stunted. So in that regard it was nice to have nera pull out a different side of him and show him he could be happy and still be him. The intimate scenes were really good. It also hit on my br**ding kink, so i loved that. I wasn't expecting the revelations we got about vittore, which sucked, or the one about Antonio, but it kind of makes sense. I really liked Tomasso and Enzo's characters and hope they both get 2nd chance love stories so they can have their HEA. One thing I would have liked was more of a epilogue, It felt a bit unfinished. Maybe the author can extend the last or add another chapter, or do a separate extended epilogue book to add a time jump a year or more down the line. Other than that, good read. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily

[Michelle Frater · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a powerful story of two people whose relationship seemed almost preordained. Meeting as children, Nera thought Gio was an angel and her exuberance knew no bounds. In contrast, Gio was a closed off child and this continued into adulthood. Following a shared traumatic experience, Gio’s guilt at the part he played in the partial loss of Nera’s sight made him keep a watchful eye on the girl who’d saved his life, becoming her unknown protector. It was hard to image how Nera saw the world, limited to shapes and shades of gray, but the fact she saw Gio surrounded by a red aura was fascinating. As Nera prepares to leave for France, she hopes to see her secret crush one more time, but suddenly events take an entirely different turn. With their lives on the line, Gio and Nera don’t know who they can trust. Hiding at the Di Salvo estate, they face danger at every turn, both from Gio’s unstable father and the killers on the streets. Each wants to protect the other, even at the cost of their own life, but they are strongest together. Amidst all this turmoil Nera and Gio cling together and find solace in each other’s arms. I loved that Nera was the more experienced lover, which made a nice change. Not your typical Mafia capo, Gio nevertheless proves ruthless when it comes to protecting Nera, much to the regret of a bad guy or two.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Lisa · Rating 1 out of 5]

A different take on the usual Mafia morally grey anti-hero. Gio and Nera meet as children and form a bond that carries on into adulthood, but after Gio loses his mother and Nera suffers from a trauma that causes partial loss of her eyesight - he watches her from afar. Then someone is out to get Nera and it forces Gio to bring her into the Di Salvo family for protection....but Gio's Father is a tyrant and things get really complicated.

This hurt....and not in a good way...🙄

The blurb drew me in, but reading this was like wading through treacle. The storyline struggled to flow. The reason for targetting Nera makes no sense and even less sense when it's revealed towards the end of the book. The tyrant of a father should have been dispatched way before he actually was. Their relationship was difficult to read - Gio was broken, seriously traumatised, and this was at odds with him being a 'made man'. And Nera, she was an oddball, too fiesty (is that even a thing?) unpredictable and goes off like rabid pit bull when Gio is in danger...😳

At times, the writing was almost childlike and woolly, which made the intimate scenes a struggle - I don't know what Gio and Nera's ages were - guesstimate around early to mid-20's? But at times it felt very Mrs Robinson with Nera....

The ending is a fade to black, and frankly, I don't care enough to read on.

[love2read · Rating 5 out of 5]

This dark mafia romance poignantly tells Nera and Giovanni’s intense, bittersweet love story.
Nera is a strong beautiful spirit who is partially blind and who will fight for Giovanni always, even when it involves her own personal risk. Giovanni, while certainly being a morally gray character, is living with some traumatic issues of his own; he just makes you want to hug him all the time; he is so endearing. They are each other’s greatest protectors, and I found myself rooting so hard for them both.
This was my first time reading this author’s work courtesy of a review copy I received for free. Thank you to the author for trusting me to leave my honest review voluntarily.

This story touched my heart. It is a well-paced, slow burn romance that is captivating, harsh, and brutal with just enough spiciness that it didn't make me feel like I had just read some torture porn😉. There were some twists and turns that had me on the edge of my seat from the very beginning!

Broken Protector is the first book in a series, and I will be reading the others because the supporting characters left just enough of an impression to make me want to know more of their stories.

If you enjoy suspenseful heart-warming dark romance with your HEA, then give this one a try.

[Emma · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a romance! Giovanni and Nera are soulmates. Their relationship was wonderful to read about. Giovanni's family was diverse in opinion and personality. But to those that mattered they all loved Nera. Although Nera's sight was impaired the miracle of her seeing Giovanni was incredible. Nera was incredibly intelligent. She was able to differentiate between Gio and another person that was near him. I did like Gio's cousin Antonio. Even though Antonio did not like Nera at first, she won him over just by being herself and proving how much she loved Gio. Gio's uncles were a different story. This is a wonderful romance, definitely a page turner. A must read. I highly recommend this for those mafia fans that are romantically inclined. There is no arranged marriage, no lack of consent and an original storyline.

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

Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Action-packed
Haunting
Original
Page-turner
Romantic
Realistic
Steamy
Tragic
Twisted
Unpredictable
Wonderful characters.

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

[Eclectic Review · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story captivated me by reversing the alpha and beta roles. A young girl's affection for the shy, lonely son of a mafioso transcends into a love that overcomes danger and family loyalty.

Nera's journey begins with a selfless act of bravery that changes her life forever.  Partially blinded and orphaned after saving Giovanni Di Salvo from a mafia hit, she finds solace in the quiet moments when Giovanni visits her bakery. I love her sweet gesture of giving Giovanni sweet treats by guessing what he would like. Her unwavering strength and courage, coupled with her unmatched devotion and protectiveness toward Giovanni, is truly admirable. The woman is amazing and is not afraid to die for him.

Giovanni has witnessed and endured much pain and suffering from his psychopathic father. The guilt he feels over the incident that injured Nera leaves a profound impact on him, compelling him to believe that he should stay away from her. However, she becomes his refuge and calm amidst the storm. Giovanni's gentleness and quiet demeanor beautifully complement Nera's confidence, and he draws strength from her light. His compassionate nature is not your typical mafia capo, but his unwavering determination to protect Nera brings out his ruthless side.

What makes their relationship all the more intriguing is the contrast between Giovanni's asexual nature and Nera's sexual experience. It adds complexity to the relationship making it an unforgettable and thought-provoking dynamic.

The suspense is incredibly engaging with threats from unknown assailants and surprising twists and turns. The author writes villains very well and the revenge is sweet on those who meet their demise.

If you enjoy tragic romances with fascinating characters and a unique love story, please give this book a try. 

Thank you to Ms. Warden for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no expectation of a positive review.

[Diane · Rating 4 out of 5]

*3.5 stars*

Wild journey…

Nera and Gio(vanni)’s journey was a wild mix of family, nefarious plots and complicated emotions. They knew each other as children and the connection they had was unmistakable, if hard to label. With memories taking us back to key points in their relationship, it wasn’t hard to see the challenges they faced. They couldn’t trust (almost) anyone except each other and even then Gio struggled to acknowledge what he really wanted. The angst and strife was real and permeated this roller coaster ride of tragedy and uncertainty…

I liked this story, the first by this author. The premise had a lot to live up to and in many ways it did. The writing style was easy and the character development deep and interesting. I struggled a bit with the later chapters as the mysteries came together super quickly and I felt like I missed something with the big reveal.

All in all, the characters and their story held me captive throughout and has put this author firmly on my reading watch list.

*I happily reviewed this story
**Thank you to BookSirens

[Anij · Rating 5 out of 5]

“No one had ever loved him. Not even his mother…”

I’m still tingling from reading this fantastic book! It’s amazing and if the rest of the series is as good this is going to be Amber’s best. Giovanni is so very different from any typical mafia hero and I’m head of heels in love with him! Nera is also unlike any other mafia heroine. From their meet cute through the last page these two were a wonderful delight. The entire book is a unique spin on the genre and so refreshing. Not that it’s mafia lite. Giovanni doesn’t hesitate to torture or kill and there is a ton of violence and intrigue. It’s impossible to truly explain without spoiling the story which I absolutely refuse to do. As a matter of fact, it’s best to avoid and reviews that discuss plot as they might give hints to all the wonderful secrets and twists. Just trust me and read this book blind. And then happily look forward to three more future books in the same series. I’m counting the days!

[Jacinda Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

GREAT

I stumbled across Luka's book but I like reading books in order; so I started with Gio & Nera.

What a great book. It is worth the money or keeping it in your library.

I don't like to give out spoilers but you will get a different spin on the Mafia type trope.

I thought it would be similar to others I have read but it's about an up-and-coming capo dealing with whether he can actually feel the love he has for the girl he has an obssession with.

I have to say that Amber's scenes are sensual, sexy and romantic and so well written. The way she slowly introduces 'the act' so that Gio can actually realise he can feel those feelings and be touched as well as touch was beautiful to read. I actually went back and re-read those chapters just to soak in the tenderness that Amber created.

I actually can't wait for Luka's story because there are hints in this book that it will be a great read.

[Lulu · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was definitely a different mafia type romance than I’m used to. The MMC, Giovani, wasn’t portrayed to be the typical big muscular alpha male, which i feel is very different for this mafia genre. I’m not sure how I feel about it. I didn’t hate it, but I didn’t love it either because I was expecting alpha.

The FMC, Nera, was a nice surprise, she’s curvy!! 🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻 Yah for curvy fiesty woman leads! I really enjoyed the assertiveness of Nera throughout the book and how her confidence just kept growing.

I did enjoy how the author gave us duo povs, how the story developed and it was a good pace for me. So, the story was still a good one and worth reading! The book has already been published and is available on Amazon.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Christina · Rating 3 out of 5]

I am not unkind in reviews but I had a really hard time getting through this novel. It seemed too long and uninteresting. I get that as the first novel in a series you have to set up the characters, relationships and circumstances but there seemed to be too much going on and it was hard to keep track of everything. I did not like how Giovanni was such a “weakling” compared to the others (and then he’s suddenly strong enough to be a leader in the last two chapters). Nera was far too aggressive for my liking. It got to be really annoying. It would have been nice to see Giovanni take the lead for once. I didn’t read the series in order and found this one to be the least entertaining of them all. It’s more of a backstory to the following 3 all of which I liked better. I received an advance review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Shifty Bugger · Rating 4 out of 5]

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

Wow, this was an astonishing book to read, this story had me mesmerised I couldn't put the book down and the characters were captivating. This story was about Nera and Giovanni, Giovanni has always been close to Nera, he has always looked over her after the death of her parents. His father wants her out of his house she is not a Di Salvos. Nera lost both her parents so now Nera runs the family bakery, Nera will protect Giovanni with her life including when some men were shooting at them. There was so much action, suspense, danger, violence, killings, enemies, anger, their respect, friendship, cuddles, and maybe love.

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

[Merilu Keenum · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was captivated by Nera and Giovanni’s story: gentle, stoic Gio is really a strong, resilient, and intelligent man. He’s been abused physically and emotionally by his father and others who felt like he wasn’t worth of his place. Nera sees him as an Angel: beautiful, so afraid to show emotion, and her only desire.

Amber Warden’s mafia story is full of danger, cruelty, betrayal, and intrigue. However, this couple is above all the drama while being fiercely protective of each other. Nera’s devotion to Gio is overwhelming and so touching. I enjoyed the emotional experience Amber so skillfully portrayed as this couple realized their love and sexuality.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[readabookonce · Rating 5 out of 5]

🌸🌷🌺💐🌼🪻sorry just trying to give Amber Warden all her flowers

MAIN CHARACTER NAMES AND AGES
Nera Carmen (mid 20s) | Giovanni Di Salvo (late 20s)

FEATURES
∘ mafia romance
∘ childhood friends (kind of) to lovers
∘ baker fmc
∘ fiercely and violently protective of each other

REVIEW
I don’t have much to say aside from this book hit all the notes for me. Giovanni and Nera’s love was so sweet and pure. Their shared adoration and protectiveness made for a great read. I’m truly enjoying this series.

OW/OM DRAMA none
CHEATING none
THIRD ACT BREAKUP no
ENDING HEA — no epilogue

POV dual / third person
SPICE LEVEL 4 / 5
RATING 5 / 5

[Courtney Humphreys · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. I think it’s interesting in that the MMC is not the typical alpha guy. Not super big or macho, especially strong, not super confident (at least outwardly), etc. TBH those are usually what I go for but it was nice to read a different perspective. Love that the book is standalone bc honestly I’m having a hard time keeping track of release dates for all these other installment stories out there. I definitely want to read Luka’s story when it comes out. Can’t wait to see what had my sweet little Hero blushing so hard in this book.

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

[Shawna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved Broken Protector Book 1 of Gentle Sinners. This was an amazing book to read and I couldn't put the book down, I read it in one sitting on a day off. Giovanni has always been close to Nera, he has always looked over her after the death of her parents. His father wants her out of his house she is not a Di Salvos. Nera lost both her parents so now Nera runs the family bakery, Nera will protect Giovanni with her life including when some men were shooting at them. This book had a bit of everything: suspense, danger, friendship and love. I would definitely recommend this book.

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

[Jesmin Nawaz · Rating 2 out of 5]

This story had my emotions confused when I came to Giovanni. On one hand, he is portrayed as this weak, sort of asexual, man. But then on the other hand, he is a big bad "protector" and super hot for Nera. He was a bad ass in front of everyone except his dad threw him around like a rag doll. His character, for the most part, didn't appeal to me. Nera on the other hand - she was bad ass. Despite her limitation with her sight she managed to kill men attacking her and stood up to Gio's dad. My favorite parts were Nera and Gio's interactions in the beginning at the bakery and when she first came to live with him. As the story progressed, their chemistry felt lacking.

[Angela Farley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is Book 1 of The Gentle Sinners Series. This is Giovanni and Nera's story. And the title so fit this book. My heart just rooted for this couple and cried for Giovanni and Nera in this book a few times. There was steam in a refreshing point of view that I had not read before. But the book didn't disappoint on action and mystery and drama either. With a couple of twists that kept you on your toes. I read these a bit out of order and wasn't too confused but I'd recommend reading in order for maximum enjoyment.
I received a Advanced readers copy for free and am leaving a honest voluntary review

[M H · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Can I love you?… is that okay? Because I already do. I always have… I don’t know how to stop.”

Nera is my girl. Love how fiercely protected she was of Gio. She knew what she wanted and needed in life and there was no stopping her. No matter what came at her or should I say him, she was all determination and fearlessness when it came to keeping Gio alive and well. I read Luka's book and I just had to read this one. While I did enjoy Luka's more, this story held its own. You just have to love the Di Salvo men.I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[SammyJ · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. I loved the back story of Giovanni and Nera but would have loved more detail of that as well as more of Giovanni's mums back story.

I loved how strong Nera was and that amidst all the loss and trauma she still was a bad ass FMC that didn't let her disability define her. I love that Giovanni loved Nera and didn't let her disability cloud his view of her capabilities.

I can't wait to see if Antonio amd Enzo get their own stories as I really enjoyed how protective they became of Nera.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

As this is book one in the series I am really looking forward to reading more.

[Priscilla · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very different type of mafia genre book. Giovanni has been broken down many times by his family and the only person to believe in him was Nera who they met as kids when his mother would take him to the bakery owned by Nera's family. It is pretty heart breaking how Giovanni is treated by his family and his own self confidence was taking a beating. Nera showed him patience and love through it all. It was definitely different but still really good.

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