Crown of Confessions

by E.J. Tanda

Genres: Crime

436 pages, Paperback

Published July 30, 2023

About the author

Award-winning author E.J. Tanda graduated from Southern New Hampshire University with a degree in English and Creative Writing. E.J. lives in Northern California with her family. With a rich, cultural background guiding her writing, she weaves her Italian heritage throughout her stories. When she isn’t writing, she travels the globe to gain experiences for her next book.

Reviews

[Vonnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read a lot of Mafia books, and I need all my Mafia readers to read this series right now! It’s the best one I’ve read all year. It’s honestly a crime that more people aren’t talking about it. You’ll fall in love with the characters, their stories will pull you in, and you’ll definitely ugly cry. I felt all the emotions.

Also—can we talk about how sequels usually fall flat? Not this one! I was still 100% hooked and couldn’t put it down. This series turned me into a total fangirl, and I’ll read anything this author writes from now on!

[Christine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, what a read! This was my first outing into the Mafia Romance genre, and I wasn't disappointed.This is the 2nd book in the series. You can read this without reading the first one, but I definitely would recommend reading the 1st!.

This was such great read, I devoured it in a few days!

The book as a whole was so well written. It had a great pace, full of detail, drama, and pure emotions that make you really connect with the characters.

It is written with a dual timeline where we can understand what has happened to the characters in the past and what is going on with them in the present, and boy oh boy I wasn't ready for that ending! - word of warning - get the tissues ready if you do read this series, I still don't think I'm over it 😭😭

I'm hoping that there may be a 3rd in this series in the future!

[Nelli Lakatos · Rating 5 out of 5]

“𝒯𝒽𝑒𝒾𝓇 𝓁𝑜𝓋𝑒 𝓈𝓉𝑜𝓇𝓎 𝒾𝓈 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝓀𝒾𝓃𝒹 𝓉𝒽𝒶𝓉 𝓂𝒶𝓀𝑒𝓈 𝓅𝑒𝑜𝓅𝓁𝑒 𝒷𝑒𝓁𝒾𝑒𝓋𝑒 𝒾𝓃 𝓁𝑜𝓋𝑒 𝒾𝓃 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝒻𝒾𝓇𝓈𝓉 𝓅𝓁𝒶𝒸𝑒.”

I don’t think I cried on a book this hard since I’ve read the last book in The Program series in 2022…

This was a beautiful follow up to Queen of Secrets. I absolutely loved this book from the very beginning, it was a true emotional roller coaster that I feel like I can never get down, that I’m still on. I wish I could read it for the first time again.

It’s so hard to gather my thoughts right now for this review I’m still in shock and under the influence of this ending… There’s probably so much more that I wanted to say towards this incredible book but I just need to say that it was perfect and I absolutely loved it, I highly recommend it to everyone!

[Holly Cliffe · Rating 4 out of 5]

Crown of Confessions - ARC review
E.J. Tanda

Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️

Love story within a love story. One developing in the present, and one that started many many years ago.

Paints a colorful and lively picture of a mafia family and all the turmoil that comes along with it. I live that you not only get a glimpse into the family present day, but you get a full look back into the family’s past.

Two book boyfriends for the price of one? Count me in. Both are attentive, romantic, intense, and willing to die for the woman they love.

Overall, this book has a lively and engaging story that keeps the tension throughout. If you enjoy mafia romance, I definitely recommend Crown of Confessions.

[im.booked.on.a.feeling · Rating 5 out of 5]

After I finished the first book in the Mafia Matriarch Series, Queen of Secrets, I immediately picked up Crown of Confessions. I HAD to know what happened to all the characters I fell in love with. Readers, if you’ve been following the read along, you know this book delivered!

From the first page, I was completely enthralled with Vi’s story and what happened to her after the devastating events at the end of Queen of Secrets. I found the conclusion of Vi’s story to be emotional, jaw dropping, heartbreaking, and so satisfying. I finally got the answers to my burning questions 🎉. Most importantly, I loved every page…especially the ones where I learned more about Vi and Gaetano’s love story. ❤️

Once again, I really enjoyed the parallels between Vi’s past and Barbara’s present. It was great to see Barbara and her children heal from the events in Queen of Secrets as well as watch Barbara open her heart anew. Don’t even get me started on that ending 😭.

If someone could please explain to me why this novel hasn’t been adapted into a tv series, I’d be so appreciative🤣. Seriously, it’s that good. If you’ve been thinking about reading The Mafia Matriarch Series, please do yourself a favor and start reading. You won’t be disappointed.

In the pages, you will find:

🔪 The Mafia
❤️ Historical romance
🇮🇹 Italy
💞 Soulmates
🌶️ Spice
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Strong Family Ties
🩸 Violence
💪 Strong Women
📖 A satisfying and emotional ending to an amazing series!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5

[Nicola Hancock · Rating 5 out of 5]

Part 1: Barbara and Alessandro are back and I’m full of high hopes.I love Mrs G and you get to meet more of the mafia clan throughout this book. From the current to the past 1947 the storyline continues. My heart was pulsing with the insight into Gaetano. The steam built up and it was more intense than the first book but I was all for it. It was refreshing hearing a different take on people wanting to leave the Mafia and how hard it was to do so.

Part 2: Starts with a secret coming to life, there was so much emotion and loss that oozed through the pages. It’s always painful reading about rape and death but how strong the characters were in this gives the reader so much strength in reality. I adored fully learning more from book one, if you’ve not read the first definitely do so.

Part 3: The most painful to read chapter, never has a book made me sad cry so much like a film. The emotion flooded at me through the pages. My heart was broken but filled with so much joy. A true mafia love story bought to life with the most beautiful words. I’m not ready to let go of this series and I can’t wait to find out more about Barbara and Alessandro. This is truly one of the best series I’ve read so far this year.

[Naturalbri (Bri Wignall)]

My thoughts- I absolutely loved this book. I thoroughly enjoyed the first book- Queen of Secrets, and could not wait to get my hands on this second book. I would say that this is a pair of books that you really should read the first book before this. However, it is possible to start with book two, but you will be missing out on so much growth and emotion, in the build up of the connection between Barbara and Vi.
I truly enjoyed the way these two grew and connected, over the two books. It was an emotional connection, that developed from near disdain, at the start, to a true and lasting friendship. It was so beautiful and the author captured all of that growth in such a brilliant and heartwarming way.
Don't get me wrong, this is no heartwarming book..it will take you on an emotional rollercoaster and put your heart through a vice, as you hear about VI's past and connect it to Barbara's present, especially as new characters join the story, affecting Barbara and her decisions.
I love the amount of detail put into the book and the way we got to learn about the mafia life, boy past and present. It was really informative, exciting and made for a truly interesting read.
Overall, this is a brilliant book. It works in every way and really is a great read.

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the opportunity to read Crown of Confessions for a Read Along, and this book gave me so many feels. I really liked the first book Queen of Secrets, but loved this book. It is a women's perspective of life in the Mafia.
The book has romance and it has violence (it's a Mafia based book), but most of all, it had an amazing message between two women sharing so much similar situations in the 1940s and the early 2000s. It created such a strong bond between these two women that they became family out of love and respect.
With no spoilers, everything that had questions from the 1st book was definitely answer plus more. I cried multiple times while reading, because I can feel the heartbreak with how the author wrote, but also the love.
While reading this, I raved about it with the my friends. My hubby is Sicilian and so are other friends, so it's interesting to get some of that perspective. Plus, I'm from the SF Bay Area, and I know the places they are talking about it in most ways. True, time changes, but I can imagine while driving in those areas that "Vi" walked around here, and "Barbara" drove this route.
I am so happy I got to participate in this Read Along and to find one of my now favorite reads.

[Alice Moon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am not ok! I stayed till 11:30 p.m. crying so bad! The last part of the book was so beautiful and emotional, with an excellent ending. I really enjoyed reading Crown of Confession. I hope there will be a book 3 about Sophia's love journey. Reading Violetta's story was like i was in her room, she was confessing to me, and it gave me a heart-warming feeling. Her story felt so real. Well, i think it is possible that these kind of things could happen to a mafia queen. It was a love story, with lots of ups and dows, well more downs, with never-ending heartbreaking moments. And the story's ending was so perfect!

About Barbara, her story was similar to Violetta’s, and i am glad that they found each other. I think we need somebody to give us straight to move forward. Like a lighthouse, Violetta helped Barbara to navigate through darkness. And at the end both found something important. A family!

Thank you so much @lovebookstours and @ejtanda for the possibility to read Crown of Confession!

[booksy.tx.ana · Rating 5 out of 5]

The sequel to The Queen of Secrets, you just jump right back into Mrs. G's world. Her story. Her love. Her heartbreaks. Her pain. It’s all-consuming. You feel all of these emotions and moments right along with her. Tanda does such an amazing job of taking you to these places with the characters. It feels like you aren’t watching them go through it; you are going through these moments with them. Barbra’s story is taking her through new phases of life. She had and continues to have impactful growth within herself. The relationship between them both is based on trials and understanding. It’s truly a beautiful relationship. This book captures your heart and soul to transport you to a love story that gets tested but thrives through hope and possibilities.


Not only this book, but both books 1 and 2 as a duo are absolutely at the top of my list of favorite books.

Come read with me on instagram @booksy.tx.ana

[R.ed_reader · Rating 4 out of 5]

4⭐️ | 3🌶

This is the second book in the Mafia Matriarch series and Tanda has done such a fab job with the storytelling!

This story perfectly captures the life of a mafia family and the ups and down they have to go through. The fact that the story doesn’t only capture their present but also gives us glimpses into their past makes it so much more interesting. This book seamlessly blends all the above tropes to give you a beautifully crafted story with seduction, danger, and merciless twists which will leave you breathless!

Overall it’s a great read and if you’re a fan of Mafia Romances, I’d definitely recommend you to give this one a shot!

TW:
Although primarily an epic love story with sizzling-hot love scenes, the book contains some content related to criminal behavior, domestic violence, self-harm, sexual aggression and substance abuse.

[Bianca Duthie · Rating 5 out of 5]

While I enjoyed book 1 in this duology, I absolutely loved this book!
I absolutely flew through it. Maybe it was because I already knew the families and some of the history, so I was more invested in the characters, or maybe the storytelling just absolutely smashed it.
I got answers to all of the questions book 1 left me with and a well-rounded conclusion.
I had guessed the twist long before it was revealed, but it still warmed my heart.
This didn't have the same level of violence or brutality that book 1 had, and that afforded more development of the characters in the present to allow their stories to be heard.
I absolutely bawled my eyes out at the last few chapters. It really had me going, so grab your tissues for that!
It's a fantastic read, and I'd gladly pick up more by this author in the future!

[callistoscalling · Rating 5 out of 5]

I did not know if I could love this book more than I did the first one but this story continues to age like a Sanna Vineyard’s fine wine! EJ Tanda outdid herself with this absolutely beautifully written second installment in the Mafia Matriarch series. While the gritty depths of the mafia still run deep in Violetta’s life, resilience, love, and sacrifice triumph above the hardships. The dual storylines of Vi and her caretaker, create such beautiful parallels of both highs and lows of love and life in different seasons of womanhood. Even when the universe continues to hand Vi the worst hand, her deep faith in God’s plan gives her the strength to make absolutely selfless decisions for the ones she loves most. Crown of Confessions is an absolutely captivating read, with the strong message that love and resilience prevails over loss and heartbreak.

[Charlotte · Rating 5 out of 5]

Barbara has very much gained a family by the end of the book. And I feel like I did too. A fictional family that I'd be terrified of in real life, but a family none the less.

All of the characters in this book feel so real, I honestly wouldn't be surprised to bump into them if I were in the same town, or if I found "Sanna Wine" for sale in the supermarket.

Vi and Barbara have the most beautiful relationship, it really shows that love knows no bounds, and friends really are the family we choose for ourselves. Alex is wonderful too. His patience with Barbara is certainly what a lot of women I know need.

The story flows on perfectly from book 1. The dual timeline works brilliantly. The links between characters that you just don't expect, the long hidden secrets... just... perfect.

I'm kind of hoping there'll be more to read in the future.

[Lizz Hanson · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading book 1, I knew I was going to love this book and it did not disappoint. We continue to follow Barbara and vi, we learn more from vi very colourful mafia life and more about her love gaetano, while also seeing how Barbara and Alessandro tiptoe around their bidding relationship.
I absolutely loved the characters and the strong family Barbara found with in vi, I adore vi, I loved learning more about her life and how strong she is due to her experiences and how she still is despite the dementia taking her away. This book was a fun read, but at times I was close to tears, having lost my own nan to dementia, reading what happens to vi, cut close to home.
This book couldn't have ended any more perfectly than it did, this was certainly a rollercoaster of a read, but absolutely loved every second of it. Absolutely perfect ❤️

[kirsty · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought the first book in this series was good and would be hard pushed to beat but this book was phenomenal.

I have always been fascinated by the Mafia, I even watch Mob Wives when it used to be on MTV, there is something so brutal and yet so luxurious about it too, and so I knew this series would grab my attention and I wasn't wrong.

The book is well written with a riveting story line and well developed characters who are all so real to me, so believable and relatable, especially Vi and Barbara, I find myself so drawn to them. I love that this went further than book one and we got to see more of my beloved pair but also see them grow and learn more about them too.

I can't wait to read more and I think I would be happy reading about Barbara and Vi until the end, I just can't get enough. I would highly recommend this series, but be prepared you will definitely need tissues and chocolate

[Alyssa Mohring · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a masterpiece! It is filled with deceit, friendship, loyalty, tragedy, heartbreak, family secrets, and second chances.

I sobbed at Violetta's story. Everything she went through hell and back her whole life. She has a star-crossed lovers story. She is a very strong and loving person. A one tough cookie in experience and attitude.

Barbara is amazing. I love her and her loyalty to Violetta. I feel she is an amazing mom. She is also a very tough. Cookie with everything she has been through. She is scared to trust while finding herself. I am glad she was open to have her own love story.

This book is very emotional. I loved how the going back in time story flowed so well with the present story. Also, that ending! I can not wait for the next one.

[Mrs Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Crown of Confessions is book 2 in this series and I need to go back and read book 1!

Tropes:
*Mafia
*Later in life
*Second chance love
*Grief
*Adoption (brief)

This book had drama, romance, spice, mafia war, struggle, family and love. This romance book was nontraditional in the sense that there were more than two main characters. It did not follow only the main male and main female characters. I loved that about it.

**Be sure to check out the trigger warnings before reading as there are several sensitive topics in this book**

Thank you to the author, this is my honest opinion.

[Jacqueline Diaz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was apart of the Crown of Confessions Read Along. After reading book 1 I wouldn’t wait for this one to come out. I was left with so many questions and EJ definitely answered them all in this one. The book is from two women’s pov in mafia life. Although its a Mafia story and it had some violence and romance its actually about a friendship between two women who wouldn’t normally be friends. The similarities they went through even though they lived with many decades between them the friendship was authentic. The book was an emotional rollercoaster definitely some range, happiness and tears were shed. I definitely would love for this to journey to continue.

[Kelsey Stone · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVE this authors writing. It is well written, with likable characters and the most unexpected happenings in this second installment of the series that seemingly left some strings loose. Knowing the author is currently working on something has me wondering if it is related but a girl can dream right?

Barbara really grows into her own here where the mafia becomes very real, very fast and no longer simply stories from Violetta. Between Barbara’s new love interest and watching the whole situation with her son and how it was handled? Perfection. This story was built on realistic moments with zero shock value and it shows.

[Chris · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an enjoyable read. It is a story of family, loyalty, secrets, and the choices made to protect loved ones. Set in a dangerous and often brutal world it is a story that is full of life and love. The writing style drew me in and I enjoyed learning about Violetta’s life through her stories to Barbara and seeing how Barbara became a part of Violetta’s family. This was the second book in the series and I am hoping the story continues with a third book.

Thanks to the author and Love Book tours for providing a copy for my honest review.

[Kathy Armstrong · Rating 5 out of 5]

Congratulations EJ Tanda - you have met your calling👏🏻. I am looking forward to your next book (s). The Mafia Matriarch Series is a MUST READ. The way Crown of Confessions pulled it all together was absolutely the best I have read. The writing flow continued to pull me in to just one more chapter. With tears in my eyes and Kleenex in my hand I devoured the ending of this amazing love story. Thank you for a wonderful reading experience ❤️

[Kristen Myers · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was AMAZING!!! There are not enough stars to even rate how excellent this book was. This book totally shattered me, broke my heart, pieced it back together, then broke my heart again. I was sobbing like a baby trying to finish this and it truly spoke to my heart and soul. This was a story of desperation, heartache, loss, redemption, forgiveness, a found family, figuring out your worth, and ultimately a love story. The two POV’s are two incredibly strong woman who find each other without realizing how much they needed each other. Their stories are so different, yet similar at the same time. Highly recommend!

[Bob Lopes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Riveting reading.

Wonderful book about family traditions and loyalty. The Story takes the reader through young Violeta's first love which is interrupted by family obligations and World War II. At the end of her life she is in love again and at peace with herself.

[Sue Wallace · Rating 5 out of 5]

Crown of confessions by E.J tanda.
Mafia Matriarch Series Book 2.
Forgive me, for I have sinned…
Barbara Jackson’s life changed the day she became the caregiver for Violetta Giordano, a former Mafia Queen with a fiery personality and a dangerous past. As Barbara helps Violetta navigate her heartbreaking descent into the dark abyss of Alzheimer’s, she uncovers secrets and revelations about the former queen's turbulent life. The more she learns, the deeper she is drawn into Violetta’s world.
The loss of heaven and the pains of hell…
But it's not just Violetta's past that captivates Barbara. A magnetic Mafia boss seeking to escape his legacy of crime catches her eye, and she can't help but be drawn to him. As Barbara explores the clandestine, treacherous world of the mob, she finds herself caught between two powerful forces, both of which could irrevocably change her life. Have mercy on my soul…
This was read as part of a readalong which I really enjoyed taking part of.
I really did enjoyed this book. I got into it straight away. I loved Violetta. I loved how fiesty she was. I loved Barbara for how she took care of Violetta. I loved how close they were. I couldn't put it down. I did like Alex. I love how protective he was. He was patient with Barbara. The ending. It made me cry about Violetta. This was a beautiful read. I do really hope there is another. 5*.

[Vincent Latona · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great way to wrap up this storyline.

Great job at tying up all the storylines. A fun ride and an emotional reminder of how short life really is. Take advantage of each moment we have. Cheers!!

[Hayley · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG! I LOVED this book!! I thought book 1 in the series was great but I think this was even better! I loved being back with Vi and Barbara and I was probably as impatient as Barbara to hear the rest of Vi's story of her and Gaetano and let me tell you - it did NOT disappoint!

I honestly love these characters so much and I'm really invested in them. It was nice this time that there was a little more focus on Barbara and her budding romance, she definitely deserves to be happy after her awful ex Marcus and I think that Alessandro is the man to make her happy.

I loved finding out the rest of Vi's story, however, there was one point where I was almost shouting at the book as I can't believe that Vi had not realised something, and if she had of realised it at the time then her life would have been completely different. But, another twist in the tale was yet to come that I did not see coming and it was a good one!

I did get very emotional towards the end and it did have me crying but it was honestly just brilliant. I love the writing style, pace and the fact that I could not put it down. I really hope that we get to hear more.

[Sonja Charters · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am lost for words!! I've had to process this for a whole day and even now I just am still in shock!

This is the second book in the Mafia Matriarch Series and does continue straight on from where we left the story in book 1 - Queen Of Secrets.
I would definitely advise that you read these in order as the storyline does follow on directly and the character development continues throughout the two books.

So, I absolutely adored book 1, which I read back last December.
I fell completely in love with the characters of Vi and Barbara in the present day storyline and with Vi and family during the storyline from the past - having been left on a bit of a cliffhanger - I could not get my hands on this book 2 soon enough - and I have literally devoured this one!

I'm not going to discuss storyline with you because there is just nothing I can say that won't be a spoiler!
I'm not even sure I should tell you to get those tissues ready! - but you'll really need them!

The whole concept of this series is brilliant and I've been totally fascinated with the mafia lifestyle that was imposed on the families back in the 40's and the way that it is still running now in the present day.

Vi and Barbara have grown so much and it is just gorgeous to see!
Through her care for Vi with her condition, Barbara has become completely enamoured by the stories that Vi has relayed and this continues throughout this book.
Their relationship slowly changes and becomes something so much more than carer and patient and this was delightful to watch.
I literally want the pair in my life!

The introduction of Alessandro and the complications he brings for Barbara added a new thread for us to follow - and I absolutely have to hear more about this in future books? Please 🥰?

This is such a beautifully written book with an addictive storyline and the most adorable characters ever!
I could not - and didn't want to - put this down until I'd devoured the whole thing and I'm now bereft without this world. I need more!!

I'm so hoping that this wasn't the end and that more books are to follow in this series - I can really see potential for expansion in the storyline even though it feels that we've come to a natural pause point!

Sitting here with everything crossed.......

[Sudeshna Banerjee · Rating 4 out of 5]

The narrative follows Barbara Jackson as she assumes the role of caregiver to Violetta Giordano, a former Mafia Queen. The character development, particularly that of Barbara, is intricate and captivating. Barbara’s emotional evolution and personal growth are truly engaging aspects of the story.

E.J. Tanda skillfully depicts the beauty and darkness of the Mafia world through evocative writing. The engaging prose effortlessly draws readers into the story, allowing them to fully experience its intricacies. Themes of love, loyalty, and survival are interwoven throughout the narrative, adding depth to the exploration of the blurred lines between good and evil.

Tanda’s vivid imagery brings the characters and settings to life, enabling readers to visualize them with clarity. The dual perspectives utilized in the storytelling offer valuable insights into the minds of both Barbara and the Mafia boss, adding depth to the narrative. The emotional resonance of the story is amplified as readers develop a strong connection with the characters and their respective struggles.

The pacing is expertly balanced, effectively maintaining tension throughout without feeling rushed. By alternately shifting between past and present timelines, the structure adds an element of intrigue to the narrative. This captivating approach keeps readers eagerly turning the pages, immersed in the story’s unfolding mysteries.

Crown of Confessions fulfills its pledge of seduction, danger, and unexpected turns. It serves as a poignant tribute to love and loyalty, delving into complex themes with finesse. While certain elements (such as depictions of criminality and domestic violence) may be unsettling for some, the raw emotions conveyed in the narrative contribute to its lasting impact. I suggest this novel to readers who appreciate romance interwoven with profound themes and a hint of suspense.

[Jenifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I need more than 5 stars to rate this epic tale!
I am wrecked, drained emotionally, and in need of a new box of tissues.
This is a beautiful account of the 'rest of the story.' Ms. G. relays the second half of her life to Barbara, her caretaker, who has become like a daughter to her. Their relationship is so precious and touching. I thought Queen of Secrets (book 1) was an amazing account of this Mafia queen's full, complicated, and dramatic life but Crown of Confessions tops that by a mile. It's no wonder that Violetta Giordano is such a strong, wise, badass, take no crap woman. And still very powerful, even in her advanced age and waning health.
I haven't ugly-cried in a long time but this book brought that out several times.
It killed me.
This will stick with me for quite awhile. It's going to be hard to move on.

You MUST read this book (& part one Queen of Secrets)!!
5+++++ stars (which is still not enough stars!)