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The Marchetti Men #3
Third Degree
Gianna Ricci is running out of time. When billionaire Elio Marchetti helped her escape her family at the age of 18, she knew her freedom wouldn’t last forever. The mafia never let anyone out of their grasp for long. But that freedom comes at a price. And she will be forced back into the dark and dangerous life she left behind. Trouble is, Elio is the only person she’s ever wanted. A charming silver fox, he claimed her – mind, body, and soul – all those years ago, and Gianna has never fully recovered. He may be twenty years older, but he’s sinfully sexy. Their chemistry is electric, and every time they are together the temptation just grows stronger. Unfortunately, when she returns home, she still has a price to pay. And the secrets he’s keeping could turn her world upside down. Ready or not, war is brewing. And when Gianna’s life is at stake, Elio must find a way to protect her, no matter the cost. But can he also protect her heart?
Third Degree is a-Second-Chance-Mafia/Billionaire-Arranged Marriage-Age Gap (20 years)-Dark Romance ** Please check the author's note prior to reading **
Third Degree is a-Second-Chance-Mafia/Billionaire-Arranged Marriage-Age Gap (20 years)-Dark Romance ** Please check the author's note prior to reading **
423 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 1, 2023
106 people are currently reading
1200 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 165 reviews
April 23, 2024
the plot was not bad but the writing was very cringe.
December 16, 2023
first and foremost, Daddy Marchetti!!! Holy smokes, Elio was delicious. this is my first time reading Vee Taylor’s work, and I’ll be going back to read the first two installments in this interconnected series to get to know the other Marchetti men better 🤪🤭
Gianna and Elio’s connection — both emotionally and physically — was instantaneous. Elio is a handsome, middle-aged recent widower with ties to the mafia and the underbelly of money laundering/ organized crime, who’s simply trying to grieve the loss of his wife. Gianna is a young, hopeful, and beautiful mafia princess, daughter to a dangerous and unrelenting man who has plans for her life. to the world, this seems like a pairing that shouldn’t, COULDN’T work because of their age. but their souls connect and intertwine in a way that no one can understand. it supersedes age, goes beyond family ties.
but the controlling and oppressive nature of the mafia has demands of young Gianna that don’t involve a love match. until a deal is struck, one that allows her TIME. time to grow, to explore her life and see the world on her own, instead of being married off to an ally of her father’s to benefit the family business. she’s given until her 31st birthday to enjoy her freedom and find a man of her own. on that final birthday, she’ll have to face the music and return home to that ball & chain of a life she so desperately tried to escape.
it was heartbreaking to watch these two find each other, only to be separated. but as fate would have it, their love gets a second chance when they meet later on in life — JUST before Gianna (living under an alias) returns to marry the man her father picked out for her. their fight back to each other. Elio’s determination to have Gianna, no matter the stakes or what it takes!!! obsessed 🥰 the nicknames? my rose, my heart, love. and in ITALIAN? literally swooning. their intimate relationship? even more delicious. even more obsessed. Daddy Elio *fans myself* has me sweating. the spice is spicyyyy.
OH AND THE TWIST?!?! so good. These Marchetti men are a delight & ughhhh where’s mine? these two deserved their happily ever after. overall this was a fun read! there were a few moments of confusion while trying to sort of the mafia subplots for me, but nothing that took away from the plot. I think Vee Taylor also did an excellent job of balancing the lighter romantic/sexy moments with heavier topics of grief, anxiety and depression. to see characters dealing with such raw and real human emotions is refreshing.
Thank you to Vee Taylor and Flying Pig PR for an ARC of this book!
Gianna and Elio’s connection — both emotionally and physically — was instantaneous. Elio is a handsome, middle-aged recent widower with ties to the mafia and the underbelly of money laundering/ organized crime, who’s simply trying to grieve the loss of his wife. Gianna is a young, hopeful, and beautiful mafia princess, daughter to a dangerous and unrelenting man who has plans for her life. to the world, this seems like a pairing that shouldn’t, COULDN’T work because of their age. but their souls connect and intertwine in a way that no one can understand. it supersedes age, goes beyond family ties.
but the controlling and oppressive nature of the mafia has demands of young Gianna that don’t involve a love match. until a deal is struck, one that allows her TIME. time to grow, to explore her life and see the world on her own, instead of being married off to an ally of her father’s to benefit the family business. she’s given until her 31st birthday to enjoy her freedom and find a man of her own. on that final birthday, she’ll have to face the music and return home to that ball & chain of a life she so desperately tried to escape.
it was heartbreaking to watch these two find each other, only to be separated. but as fate would have it, their love gets a second chance when they meet later on in life — JUST before Gianna (living under an alias) returns to marry the man her father picked out for her. their fight back to each other. Elio’s determination to have Gianna, no matter the stakes or what it takes!!! obsessed 🥰 the nicknames? my rose, my heart, love. and in ITALIAN? literally swooning. their intimate relationship? even more delicious. even more obsessed. Daddy Elio *fans myself* has me sweating. the spice is spicyyyy.
OH AND THE TWIST?!?! so good. These Marchetti men are a delight & ughhhh where’s mine? these two deserved their happily ever after. overall this was a fun read! there were a few moments of confusion while trying to sort of the mafia subplots for me, but nothing that took away from the plot. I think Vee Taylor also did an excellent job of balancing the lighter romantic/sexy moments with heavier topics of grief, anxiety and depression. to see characters dealing with such raw and real human emotions is refreshing.
Thank you to Vee Taylor and Flying Pig PR for an ARC of this book!
January 13, 2024
DNF.
When it’s a dark mafia book, U BETTER MAKE SURE THE STORY IS INTERESTING AND THE H ISN’T SOME PUSSY - WHIPPED SOFT VANILLA COWARD FFS. I would rather be reading a sweet vanilla romance if my choice of MMC was like that, and not a “dark mafia romance” 😒.
When it’s a dark mafia book, U BETTER MAKE SURE THE STORY IS INTERESTING AND THE H ISN’T SOME PUSSY - WHIPPED SOFT VANILLA COWARD FFS. I would rather be reading a sweet vanilla romance if my choice of MMC was like that, and not a “dark mafia romance” 😒.
September 19, 2024
This is the 3rd book, stand-alone, in the Marchetti Men Series, I am an ARC reader. While a stand-alone, I would suggest reading the other two first.
Daddy Elio 🥵🥵
Being born a Made Man makes life interesting for Elio Marchetti. His wife, Bea, doesn't want to raise her children on the inside, and Elio does what he thinks is best, using his club as a front to launder money, while keeping her in the dark, right up to her death.
Gianna is a Mafia Princess, much to her disdain. She also battles her own brain and is anxiety ridden with depression. Her parents refuse to accept this forcing her to suffer in silence.
A meet-cute between these two, awakens a love neither have ever known, aside from their 20 year difference.
Is their love enough to with stand the age gap, the Mafia, and her controlling father?
Tropes:
Billionaire Mafia
Age-Gap
Childhood Trauma
Trauma Healing
Found Family
Daddy Elio 🥵🥵
Being born a Made Man makes life interesting for Elio Marchetti. His wife, Bea, doesn't want to raise her children on the inside, and Elio does what he thinks is best, using his club as a front to launder money, while keeping her in the dark, right up to her death.
Gianna is a Mafia Princess, much to her disdain. She also battles her own brain and is anxiety ridden with depression. Her parents refuse to accept this forcing her to suffer in silence.
A meet-cute between these two, awakens a love neither have ever known, aside from their 20 year difference.
Is their love enough to with stand the age gap, the Mafia, and her controlling father?
Tropes:
Billionaire Mafia
Age-Gap
Childhood Trauma
Trauma Healing
Found Family
December 16, 2023
Speechless. I have no words for this book! It could be read as a stand-alone however is book 3 of the Marchetti Men Series.
Daddy Elio has won my heart. An age gap of almost 20 years, Daddy Kink, Mafia Romance this book is a MUST READ. 🤤
“I will tell you that you look beautiful every single day, every single minute, and every single second because from the moment the sunrises to the time the sun sets, your beauty leaves an imprint upon my very being.”
Vee Taylor I am so proud of you & can’t wait to see what’s next.
Daddy Elio has won my heart. An age gap of almost 20 years, Daddy Kink, Mafia Romance this book is a MUST READ. 🤤
“I will tell you that you look beautiful every single day, every single minute, and every single second because from the moment the sunrises to the time the sun sets, your beauty leaves an imprint upon my very being.”
Vee Taylor I am so proud of you & can’t wait to see what’s next.
December 16, 2023
4.5⭐️/3.5🌶️
“For those who didn’t realize they had a Daddy kink until they picked up their first smut book, I bet you now know the difference between Daddy and daddy.”
When the dedication of the book starts like this you know you are in for a good read… this is the third instalment of the Marchetti men series but can be read as a stand alone.
Can say that I stayed up way to late reading this book and couldn’t put it down it has been strategically split in to three parts so that it is easy to follow the story line and character development (part one Gianna is 18 and Elio is 37, in part 2 Gianna is 30 and Elio is 49 and part three is a couple months later on) I think I favoured that way of ‘flashbacks’.
“Sei sempre stata mia, rosa mia (You have always been mine, my rose).”
Gianna and Elio as heart fluttering and just the cutest soulmates, I loved watching their relationship unfold on the page, oh and daddy Elio is definitely something. The chemistry and spice between them is definitely something 🌶️
Who doesn’t love a dirty talking protective possessive MMC they just know how to do things better!
“Call me Daddy again and see how quickly I’ll throw you over my legs and spank you until you’re begging me to do it again.”
“Do. Not. Speak. To. My. Future. Wife”—Elio lifted another gun from his waistband and pointed it at my father’s forehead before glancing back at me—“ like that ever again.”
“I figured if she tried to Cinderella it out of the wedding, the very least I could do was be her Prince Charming even if I was nineteen years older than her, covered in tattoos, and born a Made man.”
But then we also have a sheltered mafia princess who longs to be independent and do her own thing.
“What, are we living in Bridgerton? I am not Queen Charlotte. I can tend my own freaking garden.”
Vee Taylor I love what you have done here and ladies and gents if you love a romance with mafia, age gap and best of all possessive dirty mouthed men this one is for you
Thank you for the chance to ARC review, all thoughts and feelings are my own ✨❤️
“For those who didn’t realize they had a Daddy kink until they picked up their first smut book, I bet you now know the difference between Daddy and daddy.”
When the dedication of the book starts like this you know you are in for a good read… this is the third instalment of the Marchetti men series but can be read as a stand alone.
Can say that I stayed up way to late reading this book and couldn’t put it down it has been strategically split in to three parts so that it is easy to follow the story line and character development (part one Gianna is 18 and Elio is 37, in part 2 Gianna is 30 and Elio is 49 and part three is a couple months later on) I think I favoured that way of ‘flashbacks’.
“Sei sempre stata mia, rosa mia (You have always been mine, my rose).”
Gianna and Elio as heart fluttering and just the cutest soulmates, I loved watching their relationship unfold on the page, oh and daddy Elio is definitely something. The chemistry and spice between them is definitely something 🌶️
Who doesn’t love a dirty talking protective possessive MMC they just know how to do things better!
“Call me Daddy again and see how quickly I’ll throw you over my legs and spank you until you’re begging me to do it again.”
“Do. Not. Speak. To. My. Future. Wife”—Elio lifted another gun from his waistband and pointed it at my father’s forehead before glancing back at me—“ like that ever again.”
“I figured if she tried to Cinderella it out of the wedding, the very least I could do was be her Prince Charming even if I was nineteen years older than her, covered in tattoos, and born a Made man.”
But then we also have a sheltered mafia princess who longs to be independent and do her own thing.
“What, are we living in Bridgerton? I am not Queen Charlotte. I can tend my own freaking garden.”
Vee Taylor I love what you have done here and ladies and gents if you love a romance with mafia, age gap and best of all possessive dirty mouthed men this one is for you
Thank you for the chance to ARC review, all thoughts and feelings are my own ✨❤️
December 13, 2023
Third Degree
Vee Taylor
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
It’s finally time for round three of the Marchetti boys! This time it’s Daddy Elio’s turn.
This book was set up so differently than the other two, and I could not get enough. Getting three different pieces of the story told from different times in Elio’s life made it impossible to put this book down.
Overall, this series has been an absolute delight to read. All three books have told a completely different story, yet fit so seamlessly together to tell the tale of family and loyalty.
Vee Taylor
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
It’s finally time for round three of the Marchetti boys! This time it’s Daddy Elio’s turn.
This book was set up so differently than the other two, and I could not get enough. Getting three different pieces of the story told from different times in Elio’s life made it impossible to put this book down.
Overall, this series has been an absolute delight to read. All three books have told a completely different story, yet fit so seamlessly together to tell the tale of family and loyalty.
December 7, 2023
Vee Taylor…. You knew what you were doing when you introduced us to Elio. I loved Julian, then Alex, and then she gaves us Elio. It’s like having Julian AND Alex. We definitely had our cake and ate it too with this book. The plot in this book was perfect, the tropes, the characters, the romance, the spice all of it *chef’s kiss*. I definitely shouted Daddy one too many times lol. Thank you for writing such an amazing book, you definitely outdid yourself with this one. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I received an ARC for my honest opinion.
I received an ARC for my honest opinion.
December 9, 2023
100/5 stars!!!!! Are you kidding me??! This was amazing!!
Daddy Elio is *chefs kiss*
Daphne is sweet & determined!
The romance, the anxiety & depression representation, & the spice; i absolutely loved it. Im not gonna dive into any spoilers.. but just know, you're gonna want someone to call you "Rosa mia" or "amore" by the end of this!!
Daddy Elio is *chefs kiss*
Daphne is sweet & determined!
The romance, the anxiety & depression representation, & the spice; i absolutely loved it. Im not gonna dive into any spoilers.. but just know, you're gonna want someone to call you "Rosa mia" or "amore" by the end of this!!
December 29, 2023
I loved the storyline following the couple from first meeting until wedding day. I think it’s super special that you’re able to watch them grow together overtime.
Although this can be read as a standalone, I think it is best read as part of the series to get the full picture and understanding of the characters.
Although this can be read as a standalone, I think it is best read as part of the series to get the full picture and understanding of the characters.
January 23, 2024
I really really enjoyed this book - perfect mafia romance
March 16, 2024
“She knew that freedom comes at a price…”
This literally revamped my love for millionaire romances 🥵 I want to be spoilt!
This literally revamped my love for millionaire romances 🥵 I want to be spoilt!
December 28, 2023
Vee does it again!! I am OBSESSED with the Marchetti men and Daddy Elio may be a new fave!! Watch out Julian & Alex 😮💨
December 7, 2023
I absolutely love this book. It is book 3, but it can be read as a standalone. Tropes/sminks are Daddy, Second chance(after loss), age gap 30/50, v-card, arranged marriage, dark, mafia and HEA. Daddy Elio is so poetic with his words, and he will literally do anything to make her happy. I haven’t wanted to annotate a book until now because this y’all is a love story for the ages. I felt everything with them; the heartbreak, anxiety, love, lust, grief, fear, EVERYTHING!! this book, touches on mental health and aspects of anxiety, depression, panic attacks, family not believing it's real and the therapy involved with overcoming it. I could not put this book down It was absolutely beautiful.
January 31, 2024
I received this as an ARC and it was my first Vee Taylor read. I would suggest reading the others first even though this is written as a stand alone. The characters in the other two are also in this book and we all know we love to see the whole picture 💗
5🌟5🌶️
This is an age gap read and a second chance romance. It does end in a HEA. I can't tell you all enough how much I enjoyed this book. I couldn't put it down till I was done with it.
5🌟5🌶️
This is an age gap read and a second chance romance. It does end in a HEA. I can't tell you all enough how much I enjoyed this book. I couldn't put it down till I was done with it.
July 11, 2024
Another addicting read by Vee!
I am so in love with all these characters and the way that they have been woven together. Finally we now know all about the Marchetti men!
Elio is a Made mafia member that is still working through losing his first wife when we meet him at age 37. Gianna, 18, is daughter of a Mafia head and extremely anxious. They meet on an evening stroll, what could possible go wrong? 🫠
Tropes:
Age Gap (19 years)
Second Chance
Mafia
Virgin FMC
Widowed MMC
Dark Romance
Hidden Identity
Now, the real question is…can we have Christian now? 🥹🫣🥲
I am so in love with all these characters and the way that they have been woven together. Finally we now know all about the Marchetti men!
Elio is a Made mafia member that is still working through losing his first wife when we meet him at age 37. Gianna, 18, is daughter of a Mafia head and extremely anxious. They meet on an evening stroll, what could possible go wrong? 🫠
Tropes:
Age Gap (19 years)
Second Chance
Mafia
Virgin FMC
Widowed MMC
Dark Romance
Hidden Identity
Now, the real question is…can we have Christian now? 🥹🫣🥲
December 15, 2023
This is the third book in the Marchetti Men series! I love this series so much.
Third Degree is a dark, age-gap romance! This book was so good! I was hooked from the start.
Ellio and Gianna have so much chemistry! I love their story so much. It was such a beautiful story. The spice was phenomenal as well.
This is a dark story so make sure you check triggers! I really enjoyed reading their story! I can’t wait to see what else Vee will release 🫶🏼🖤
*thank you to Vee Taylor and flying pig pr for this arc copy
May 19, 2024
Too much back story that could of been a chapter.
Didn't care for any of the main characters.
I used to love mafia romances but I feel like they're all the same now.
Didn't care for any of the main characters.
I used to love mafia romances but I feel like they're all the same now.
December 28, 2023
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Mafia Romance
Age Gap (19 Years)
Arranged Marriage
Second Chance
Hidden Identity
Dark Romance
Plot: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶🌶
"I would give her everything. I would serve her the entire world on a silver platter if that was what she wanted, and then I would bury everyone who dared get in my way."
Gianna Ricci is a young mafia princess poised to be married to her dad's choice suitor. She longs for her freedom, and she spends her nights awake soaking up her only chance at it in the midnight hours when everyone else is asleep. Elio Marchetti is a Made man, a widow and an insomniac. Late one night, they meet on a path in the dark and everything about their lives changes. He helps her in the only way that he can giving her the freedom she so desperately wants while appeasing her father's business needs. Twelve years later, the meet again in unexpected circumstances, and they both discover that the feelings they had before have never gone away and are quickly reignited. Their chemistry is electric, and Elio is determined to make sure that she doesn't slip away again. War is brewing amongst the families, and he must find a way to protect her no matter the cost.
I have quickly realized this year that mafia romances are definitely one of my favorite tropes, and this book is definitely one of my new favorites. This is the kind of age gap romance I like. You need to have enough of a gap that you wouldn't expect the two characters would have anything in common. They should be at completely different places in their lives, and that is very evident here. Gianna is 18, barely legal and very sheltered. Elio is 37, widowed and the father of two adult children. To say these two shouldn't be together is an understatement. Nothing about this pairing should work, but it does, and I loved every second of it. Elio is protective and a touch possessive, but he's a romantic at heart. It's a breath of fresh air from the pompous arrogance that most Italian mafia men have. He's strong and lethal, but that doesn't dominate his entire personality. He never misses an opportunity to tell her she's beautiful, but he'd also never hesitate to kill anyone who tried to hurt her.
"I will tell you that you look beautiful every single day, every single minute, and every single second because from the moment the run rises to the time the sin sets, your beauty leaves an imprint upon my very being."
He goes out of his way to help her and to bring her peace in unexpected ways. The spice between Elio and Gianna is hot from the very beginning even within their limitations, but they more than make up for it later. It's hot and sexy (with a little kink thrown in), and it's definitely worth the wait. The very end felt a little predicable to me, but I liked the characters and the story so much that it didn't bother me too much. I really enjoyed this book a lot, and I would definitely read the others in the series. Although, I read this one first (not realizing originally that it was part of a series), I did not feel like I missed out on any part of the story at all by reading this one first. Definitely would recommend if you love mafia and age gap romances.
Mafia Romance
Age Gap (19 Years)
Arranged Marriage
Second Chance
Hidden Identity
Dark Romance
Plot: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶🌶
"I would give her everything. I would serve her the entire world on a silver platter if that was what she wanted, and then I would bury everyone who dared get in my way."
Gianna Ricci is a young mafia princess poised to be married to her dad's choice suitor. She longs for her freedom, and she spends her nights awake soaking up her only chance at it in the midnight hours when everyone else is asleep. Elio Marchetti is a Made man, a widow and an insomniac. Late one night, they meet on a path in the dark and everything about their lives changes. He helps her in the only way that he can giving her the freedom she so desperately wants while appeasing her father's business needs. Twelve years later, the meet again in unexpected circumstances, and they both discover that the feelings they had before have never gone away and are quickly reignited. Their chemistry is electric, and Elio is determined to make sure that she doesn't slip away again. War is brewing amongst the families, and he must find a way to protect her no matter the cost.
I have quickly realized this year that mafia romances are definitely one of my favorite tropes, and this book is definitely one of my new favorites. This is the kind of age gap romance I like. You need to have enough of a gap that you wouldn't expect the two characters would have anything in common. They should be at completely different places in their lives, and that is very evident here. Gianna is 18, barely legal and very sheltered. Elio is 37, widowed and the father of two adult children. To say these two shouldn't be together is an understatement. Nothing about this pairing should work, but it does, and I loved every second of it. Elio is protective and a touch possessive, but he's a romantic at heart. It's a breath of fresh air from the pompous arrogance that most Italian mafia men have. He's strong and lethal, but that doesn't dominate his entire personality. He never misses an opportunity to tell her she's beautiful, but he'd also never hesitate to kill anyone who tried to hurt her.
"I will tell you that you look beautiful every single day, every single minute, and every single second because from the moment the run rises to the time the sin sets, your beauty leaves an imprint upon my very being."
He goes out of his way to help her and to bring her peace in unexpected ways. The spice between Elio and Gianna is hot from the very beginning even within their limitations, but they more than make up for it later. It's hot and sexy (with a little kink thrown in), and it's definitely worth the wait. The very end felt a little predicable to me, but I liked the characters and the story so much that it didn't bother me too much. I really enjoyed this book a lot, and I would definitely read the others in the series. Although, I read this one first (not realizing originally that it was part of a series), I did not feel like I missed out on any part of the story at all by reading this one first. Definitely would recommend if you love mafia and age gap romances.
December 18, 2023
Thank you to Vee Taylor and Flying Pig PR for the opportunity to be an ARC reader for this book! Actual rating 3.5/5 stars!
Tropes: Second Chance / Mafia / Billionaire / Arranged Marriage / Age Gap (20 years) / Dark Romance / Double Cross / Virgin FMC / Touch Her and D/e
Characters:
Daphne Gianna Ricci: Italian Mafia Princess, has only ever wanted to make her own way in life, but her family has other plans. She is going to be married to a man of her father’s choice whenever he decides, because it’s for the good of the family. On a trip to CA for “family business”, Gianna meets our MMC, and the story starts from there.
Elio Marchetti: (20) years Gianna’s senior, he’s a “Made Man”, meaning he was brought up in, and will always work for the Italian Mafia. He lives in CA, and has taken (2) years away from the family business because his wife died, and thought he knows he must get back into the business he is reluctant to get involved with the Mob again. He meets Gianna with his dog Nutella on a walk one evening, and is immediately drawn to her. By the end of their week together, he knows he would do anything for her…and he proves it over and over.
Some Highlights:
- This is a 3.5/5 on the Spice Meter for me. It has a Virgin FMC, and she stays a virgin until the wedding night. So yes, there is steam, but it doesn’t show up until more than 50% into the book. What is written is good, it just took awhile to get started.
- This is one of my first true Mafia reads, so I’m not sure if this is normal or not, but I was confused as to who was who. A chart would help. (I love a chart!). Especially when it came to reading about the sons, and how Gianna was (all of a sudden), her bff’s mother in law. Also, I’m not sure how Ricardo was related to anyone, but he was a good guy to have around.
- The third act was very short, maybe (30) or so pages. It finished abruptly, and while it was good, there wasn’t enough of a conclusion for me. Somewhat of an unsatisfying ending.
- I also didn’t love the “Come to Jesus” discussion with Elio and Gianna’s father. Yes, the father accidentally tried to kill his daughter, but I wish that scene would have been his daughter confronting him, and not Elio. Maybe that’s how the Mafia works, that women are excluded, but it felt a little too alpha male for me. Gianna didn’t get to make her father feel bad, and that’s exactly what he spent the entire book doing.
- I loved loved loved the love story. Gianna and Elio were so sweet together. I knew there was an age gap, but it didn’t feel like one at all. It felt like they simply fit together. (This is my first age-gap romance, so I was pleasantly surprised by that!)
Fans of Mafia, Good Spice, and romance will love this book!
Tropes: Second Chance / Mafia / Billionaire / Arranged Marriage / Age Gap (20 years) / Dark Romance / Double Cross / Virgin FMC / Touch Her and D/e
Characters:
Daphne Gianna Ricci: Italian Mafia Princess, has only ever wanted to make her own way in life, but her family has other plans. She is going to be married to a man of her father’s choice whenever he decides, because it’s for the good of the family. On a trip to CA for “family business”, Gianna meets our MMC, and the story starts from there.
Elio Marchetti: (20) years Gianna’s senior, he’s a “Made Man”, meaning he was brought up in, and will always work for the Italian Mafia. He lives in CA, and has taken (2) years away from the family business because his wife died, and thought he knows he must get back into the business he is reluctant to get involved with the Mob again. He meets Gianna with his dog Nutella on a walk one evening, and is immediately drawn to her. By the end of their week together, he knows he would do anything for her…and he proves it over and over.
Some Highlights:
- This is a 3.5/5 on the Spice Meter for me. It has a Virgin FMC, and she stays a virgin until the wedding night. So yes, there is steam, but it doesn’t show up until more than 50% into the book. What is written is good, it just took awhile to get started.
- This is one of my first true Mafia reads, so I’m not sure if this is normal or not, but I was confused as to who was who. A chart would help. (I love a chart!). Especially when it came to reading about the sons, and how Gianna was (all of a sudden), her bff’s mother in law. Also, I’m not sure how Ricardo was related to anyone, but he was a good guy to have around.
- The third act was very short, maybe (30) or so pages. It finished abruptly, and while it was good, there wasn’t enough of a conclusion for me. Somewhat of an unsatisfying ending.
- I also didn’t love the “Come to Jesus” discussion with Elio and Gianna’s father. Yes, the father accidentally tried to kill his daughter, but I wish that scene would have been his daughter confronting him, and not Elio. Maybe that’s how the Mafia works, that women are excluded, but it felt a little too alpha male for me. Gianna didn’t get to make her father feel bad, and that’s exactly what he spent the entire book doing.
- I loved loved loved the love story. Gianna and Elio were so sweet together. I knew there was an age gap, but it didn’t feel like one at all. It felt like they simply fit together. (This is my first age-gap romance, so I was pleasantly surprised by that!)
Fans of Mafia, Good Spice, and romance will love this book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 28, 2024
I bounced in my head between 3 & 4 stars and if Goodreads allowed half stars (like they should) I would’ve done 3.5. This is not a spoiler free review.
I’ll be honest, I don’t like age gap romances where the FMC is still a teenager. What I liked about this book, is the time gap between them meeting and falling for each other and when they actually get together. I like that the MMC gave her the freedom to go and live a life and grow and then they came back together.
I also liked how well the grief was done for the MMC and how his inner turmoil was evident. He struggled with grief and then eventually with the guilt of wanting to move on.
One thing, though, that was not good for me was that after he decided moving on was okay he kinda backtracked on his wife. He was like I loved her but we only got married because we did it before marriage and I had to. Ew. Way to downplay this woman who was the mother of your children and you needed two years off of work for and grieved for everyday? Bye.
This book is definitely spicy, it’s more of a slow burn. There’s a definite praise kink which I personally enjoy. I think the spice level was good and not overwhelming. The FMC definitely has daddy issues and it shows but hey whatever.
Where I felt the book fell flat, is that you start off good with a young FMC who’s fighting against sexist traditions and trying to change things. Perfect opportunity for female empowerment, for her to stand up for herself, and we never got that? The MMC saved her and fixed everything while she didn’t really do anything. Instead of her being shot and her husband fixing everything she should’ve stood up to her dad and have her moment. I know the FMC did snap at her dad and find that power a little but for me it was just very flat.
I did like the connection between the two main characters, it worked. You felt a lot of the passion. I wish we had gotten more real moments between the two. I kinda felt like the MMC was monologuing the entire time like he was trying to hit quotable one liners with everything he said to her. It made the dialogue a little stiff and not really relatable.
I really liked how he was a constant advocate for her, she’d been shoved aside her whole life and he stood up for her and did everything in his power to make her seen and make sure that she was given freedom and happiness. I really think that the story would’ve been better though if she found her own power and stood up for herself instead of just floating by being saved.
That note: when she was in the hospital and the female voice was saying be strong for him, was that his ex wife? I hope not because I’d take off an entire star for that because that’s messed up and gross.
I’ll be honest, I don’t like age gap romances where the FMC is still a teenager. What I liked about this book, is the time gap between them meeting and falling for each other and when they actually get together. I like that the MMC gave her the freedom to go and live a life and grow and then they came back together.
I also liked how well the grief was done for the MMC and how his inner turmoil was evident. He struggled with grief and then eventually with the guilt of wanting to move on.
One thing, though, that was not good for me was that after he decided moving on was okay he kinda backtracked on his wife. He was like I loved her but we only got married because we did it before marriage and I had to. Ew. Way to downplay this woman who was the mother of your children and you needed two years off of work for and grieved for everyday? Bye.
This book is definitely spicy, it’s more of a slow burn. There’s a definite praise kink which I personally enjoy. I think the spice level was good and not overwhelming. The FMC definitely has daddy issues and it shows but hey whatever.
Where I felt the book fell flat, is that you start off good with a young FMC who’s fighting against sexist traditions and trying to change things. Perfect opportunity for female empowerment, for her to stand up for herself, and we never got that? The MMC saved her and fixed everything while she didn’t really do anything. Instead of her being shot and her husband fixing everything she should’ve stood up to her dad and have her moment. I know the FMC did snap at her dad and find that power a little but for me it was just very flat.
I did like the connection between the two main characters, it worked. You felt a lot of the passion. I wish we had gotten more real moments between the two. I kinda felt like the MMC was monologuing the entire time like he was trying to hit quotable one liners with everything he said to her. It made the dialogue a little stiff and not really relatable.
I really liked how he was a constant advocate for her, she’d been shoved aside her whole life and he stood up for her and did everything in his power to make her seen and make sure that she was given freedom and happiness. I really think that the story would’ve been better though if she found her own power and stood up for herself instead of just floating by being saved.
That note: when she was in the hospital and the female voice was saying be strong for him, was that his ex wife? I hope not because I’d take off an entire star for that because that’s messed up and gross.
December 13, 2023
Another amazing read from Vee Taylor. If I didn't have to attend to my children I would have definitely read this book in one full sitting. The plot isn't like any other mafia book I have read before. I'm sure there's some out there but to me there was a uniqueness of the storyline.
To give a little recap about third degree. We follow a girl named Gianna who has to live up to the standard and fulfill her duties as the Mafia princess. Her father wanted her to be married at 18 so they can Make their family even stronger and grow alliances. All her father sees her as is a pond in the mafia game. Gianna, just wanted to live up her life and not fulfill her father's wishes. Late night Gianna ends up sneaking off in the middle of the night to walk the beach where she bumps into Elio. Sparks go flying off even with the age gap that both her and him have. They ended up falling for one another but her father (also was Elio's business partner) had put it to a stop. Her father allows her until the age of 31 to find a suitable man to marry and if she didn't he would arrange the marriage for her with one condition stay away from elio. so she ends up moving to San Diego to live her life how she wanted to change her name and meet some friends. A couple months before she turned 31, she ended up bumping into elio once again. Long story story don't want to spoil the book lol Elio made it his mission to set Gianna free from her father and have her live her own life with him despise her father's wishes.
Since the beginning the promos that Vee Taylor was giving out to her readers. I couldn't wait to get my hands on this book and drive right in. She didn't disappoint one bit it went above my expectations and more. Elio's character was a cherry on top. He was everything and treated Gianna like the queen he Envisioned she'd be once the shackles came down. If you like age gap, second chances, and dark romance this book is for you!
Also, sorry if the above didn't make any sense. I've been dealing with two children who are sick and have RSV but I wanted to make sure I got my review out because the word needed to pass along and when this book becomes public, people need to definitely add this to their TBR. 🤍 Keep rocking this book world Vee your books keep getting better and better I can't wait for the next release. 🤟🏼
To give a little recap about third degree. We follow a girl named Gianna who has to live up to the standard and fulfill her duties as the Mafia princess. Her father wanted her to be married at 18 so they can Make their family even stronger and grow alliances. All her father sees her as is a pond in the mafia game. Gianna, just wanted to live up her life and not fulfill her father's wishes. Late night Gianna ends up sneaking off in the middle of the night to walk the beach where she bumps into Elio. Sparks go flying off even with the age gap that both her and him have. They ended up falling for one another but her father (also was Elio's business partner) had put it to a stop. Her father allows her until the age of 31 to find a suitable man to marry and if she didn't he would arrange the marriage for her with one condition stay away from elio. so she ends up moving to San Diego to live her life how she wanted to change her name and meet some friends. A couple months before she turned 31, she ended up bumping into elio once again. Long story story don't want to spoil the book lol Elio made it his mission to set Gianna free from her father and have her live her own life with him despise her father's wishes.
Since the beginning the promos that Vee Taylor was giving out to her readers. I couldn't wait to get my hands on this book and drive right in. She didn't disappoint one bit it went above my expectations and more. Elio's character was a cherry on top. He was everything and treated Gianna like the queen he Envisioned she'd be once the shackles came down. If you like age gap, second chances, and dark romance this book is for you!
Also, sorry if the above didn't make any sense. I've been dealing with two children who are sick and have RSV but I wanted to make sure I got my review out because the word needed to pass along and when this book becomes public, people need to definitely add this to their TBR. 🤍 Keep rocking this book world Vee your books keep getting better and better I can't wait for the next release. 🤟🏼
December 10, 2023
"He was the villain in someone else’s story, He was the savior in mine" 🫶🏼🫶🏼🫶🏼
HOLYSHIT. WOW. ✨
This is my FIRST mafia book and it did not disappoint. 🔥
I received this as an ARC. My first ever Advance Readers Copy and I was very excited to read it.
After I receive the book I was scared because I have to review it. My fears are, "what if I did not like the writing?" "What if I didnt like the plot, the characters" i have this constant worry that I will not like the book, so then I started reading, and guess what? IT WAS THE BEST!!! 😍😍😍😍
THE WRITING IS GREAT. THE PLOT IS GREAT. EVERYTHING IS GREAT!!
Third Degree is the 3rd book to the Marchetti Men Series.
It can be read as a standalone but others suggest to read the first two books. I did not. So here I am regretting. 🥲
Third Degree is a
BILLIONAIRE MAFIA
Age GAP
Found Family
Traumas
Abandonment
Grief
Insomia
The story is about a Girl named Gianna, who grew up stuck with the obligation she have for her family. She has no freedom, she's always following her father. And as a Mafia Princess, she has no choice and because of this she suffers a lot of mental illness, one is insomia.
Then she met the billionaire mafia, sexy, widowed daddy, Elio Marchetti.
Elio Marchetti is a widow when Gianna met him.
He was grieving the lost of his wife for almost 2 years.
But being a Made Man of the Family Gambini, Elio is needed in the business which he refuses to go back into since he was STILL grieving until he met Gianna Daphne Ricci. The young, very young girl who pulled him out of his misery. The girl who gave him hope. The girl who gave him the reason to return to business.
Meeting Elio Marchetti is the greatest thing that ever happened to Gianna and Gianna Daphne Ricci is the greatest thing that ever happened to Elio.
I love how their story goes.
It features the PAST and the PRESENT and I love how fast paced the story was but still very detailed. Also Add that action scene in the chapter 22. It was very intense for me! Holyfuck! 🤯
And, HOLYSHIT, ELIO MARCHETTI. ❤️❤️❤️❤️
I am so inlove with you Daddy!! 😭😭😭😍😍😍🥵🥵
He knows the right word to say. Always ahhhh.
I love it when she called him daddy, ahhh so fucking hot!!
Ratings: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Plot: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Romance: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
HOLYSHIT. WOW. ✨
This is my FIRST mafia book and it did not disappoint. 🔥
I received this as an ARC. My first ever Advance Readers Copy and I was very excited to read it.
After I receive the book I was scared because I have to review it. My fears are, "what if I did not like the writing?" "What if I didnt like the plot, the characters" i have this constant worry that I will not like the book, so then I started reading, and guess what? IT WAS THE BEST!!! 😍😍😍😍
THE WRITING IS GREAT. THE PLOT IS GREAT. EVERYTHING IS GREAT!!
Third Degree is the 3rd book to the Marchetti Men Series.
It can be read as a standalone but others suggest to read the first two books. I did not. So here I am regretting. 🥲
Third Degree is a
BILLIONAIRE MAFIA
Age GAP
Found Family
Traumas
Abandonment
Grief
Insomia
The story is about a Girl named Gianna, who grew up stuck with the obligation she have for her family. She has no freedom, she's always following her father. And as a Mafia Princess, she has no choice and because of this she suffers a lot of mental illness, one is insomia.
Then she met the billionaire mafia, sexy, widowed daddy, Elio Marchetti.
Elio Marchetti is a widow when Gianna met him.
He was grieving the lost of his wife for almost 2 years.
But being a Made Man of the Family Gambini, Elio is needed in the business which he refuses to go back into since he was STILL grieving until he met Gianna Daphne Ricci. The young, very young girl who pulled him out of his misery. The girl who gave him hope. The girl who gave him the reason to return to business.
Meeting Elio Marchetti is the greatest thing that ever happened to Gianna and Gianna Daphne Ricci is the greatest thing that ever happened to Elio.
I love how their story goes.
It features the PAST and the PRESENT and I love how fast paced the story was but still very detailed. Also Add that action scene in the chapter 22. It was very intense for me! Holyfuck! 🤯
And, HOLYSHIT, ELIO MARCHETTI. ❤️❤️❤️❤️
I am so inlove with you Daddy!! 😭😭😭😍😍😍🥵🥵
He knows the right word to say. Always ahhhh.
I love it when she called him daddy, ahhh so fucking hot!!
Ratings: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Plot: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Romance: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
December 17, 2023
“That woman stormed into my life like a whirlwind, flipping everything upside down. She brought a glimmer of light into the darkest corners of my existence.”
"Third Degree" by Vee Taylor is the captivating third installment in The Marchetti Men series, focusing on the passionate story of Elio Marchetti and Giana Ricci. Their connection started when Gianna was 18 and Elio 37, a forbidden love that defied societal norms. As a mafia princess, Gianna faced an arranged marriage, but Elio became her savior, granting her a taste of freedom. Twelve years later, their paths crossed again, rekindling the electric chemistry that bound them.
The story explores second chances, mafia romance, dark themes, billionaires, arranged marriages, and an age-gap of 20 years.
4.5⭐️
3 🌶️
Gianna's struggle for freedom, dealing with anxiety and depression, brings depth to her character. Elio, grieving the loss of his wife, finds solace in Gianna's light, transforming from a rough businessman to a protector. Despite their age difference, their connection remains strong, emphasizing that love transcends time.
“Regardless, if he was the villain in someone else’s story, he was the savior in mine.”
Eliot's understanding of Gianna's needs, providing love and choices, highlights the strength of their bond. Daddy Marchetti exudes golden retriever vibes, yet his possessiveness and dirty talk add spice to their steamy moments.
“Call me Daddy again and see how quickly I’ll throw you over my legs and spank you until you’re begging me to do it again.”
However, the challenges they face, including a shooting, threaten their love. The book provides a captivating journey into the world of a mafia-made man with golden retriever vibes. While part of a series, "Third Degree" stands out and I highly recommended.
“She was always the endgame for me. She was always the catalyst for the freedom I desired. It was always her. It always would be her.”
Thanks to Vee Taylor and Flyingpigpr for the advance readers copy in exchange of my honest opinion.
"Third Degree" by Vee Taylor is the captivating third installment in The Marchetti Men series, focusing on the passionate story of Elio Marchetti and Giana Ricci. Their connection started when Gianna was 18 and Elio 37, a forbidden love that defied societal norms. As a mafia princess, Gianna faced an arranged marriage, but Elio became her savior, granting her a taste of freedom. Twelve years later, their paths crossed again, rekindling the electric chemistry that bound them.
The story explores second chances, mafia romance, dark themes, billionaires, arranged marriages, and an age-gap of 20 years.
4.5⭐️
3 🌶️
Gianna's struggle for freedom, dealing with anxiety and depression, brings depth to her character. Elio, grieving the loss of his wife, finds solace in Gianna's light, transforming from a rough businessman to a protector. Despite their age difference, their connection remains strong, emphasizing that love transcends time.
“Regardless, if he was the villain in someone else’s story, he was the savior in mine.”
Eliot's understanding of Gianna's needs, providing love and choices, highlights the strength of their bond. Daddy Marchetti exudes golden retriever vibes, yet his possessiveness and dirty talk add spice to their steamy moments.
“Call me Daddy again and see how quickly I’ll throw you over my legs and spank you until you’re begging me to do it again.”
However, the challenges they face, including a shooting, threaten their love. The book provides a captivating journey into the world of a mafia-made man with golden retriever vibes. While part of a series, "Third Degree" stands out and I highly recommended.
“She was always the endgame for me. She was always the catalyst for the freedom I desired. It was always her. It always would be her.”
Thanks to Vee Taylor and Flyingpigpr for the advance readers copy in exchange of my honest opinion.
December 12, 2023
The quintessential love story! Think Pride and Prejudice or Wuthering Heights mixed with mafia!
"I will tell you that you look beautiful every single day, every single minute, and every single second because from the moment the sun rises to the time the sun sets, your beauty leaves an imprint upon my very being." - Elio Marchetti (swoon!)
I was graciously sent an ARC of this book to read and provide my unbiased and free review. I absolutely loved this book! Everything about it was 5/5 for me. There are not enough words to describe the love, the angst, the obstacles and everything that this couple faces. The book opens with Gianna Ricci, a 18 year old daughter of a mafia capo who wants nothing more than to break the restrictions and rules of the mafia. She wants to be independent, to be able to make her choices and have freedom. In a small act of rebellion, she sneaks out of the house her family is staying at in California to go for a late night walk. It is on one of these walks she runs into Elio Marchetti... well to be more specific, into his adorable dog named Nutella!
Elio is a much older gentleman, a Mafia Made man, a widower with 2 older sons who starts to recognize his feelings are growing for Gianna and the budding relationship they have. Things come to a head when it is revealed that Elio has a business dealing with Gianna's father and what happens when Elio poses an ultimatum to their contract that involves Gianna?
Please run and read this book! The story is amazing, the writing is beautiful and flows effortlessly and has so many tropes from mafia and age gap to forbidden love and found family. Elio is the romantic man we all secretly long for and I promise you will not be disappointed and I DARE you to disagree!
"I will tell you that you look beautiful every single day, every single minute, and every single second because from the moment the sun rises to the time the sun sets, your beauty leaves an imprint upon my very being." - Elio Marchetti (swoon!)
I was graciously sent an ARC of this book to read and provide my unbiased and free review. I absolutely loved this book! Everything about it was 5/5 for me. There are not enough words to describe the love, the angst, the obstacles and everything that this couple faces. The book opens with Gianna Ricci, a 18 year old daughter of a mafia capo who wants nothing more than to break the restrictions and rules of the mafia. She wants to be independent, to be able to make her choices and have freedom. In a small act of rebellion, she sneaks out of the house her family is staying at in California to go for a late night walk. It is on one of these walks she runs into Elio Marchetti... well to be more specific, into his adorable dog named Nutella!
Elio is a much older gentleman, a Mafia Made man, a widower with 2 older sons who starts to recognize his feelings are growing for Gianna and the budding relationship they have. Things come to a head when it is revealed that Elio has a business dealing with Gianna's father and what happens when Elio poses an ultimatum to their contract that involves Gianna?
Please run and read this book! The story is amazing, the writing is beautiful and flows effortlessly and has so many tropes from mafia and age gap to forbidden love and found family. Elio is the romantic man we all secretly long for and I promise you will not be disappointed and I DARE you to disagree!
December 14, 2023
🖤Third Degree🖤
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
This book can be read as a standalone, although it is the third part of a series.
A story full of love, sacrifice, and growth, the story of Gianna and Elio had me with my heart in my hand to see how after so much time the love was still there, I had me sighing for them. For love, there is no age, even more if you find your other half, after so much loss and suffering. Everything can get complicated when you fall in love with the princess of the Mafia to whom you are working to launder money to his family in one of your nightclubs, Elio had hidden it from his wife Bea when she was still alive because he thought it was best for his family having her in the shadows, which after losing her he regrets not having told her the truth.
After two years of mourning for his wife, Elio goes for a walk with his dog Nutella and there he meets the young woman who will completely steal his heart Gianna even though he is older than her by 20 years doesn't stop their connection from being immediate. Daddy Elio did not disappoint at all despite his age he surpassed all my expectations, the way he talks about how poetic he is with Gianna what a perfect man. The way it is narrated from three different times in their lives showing what each has been through and yet the love between them is still there had me wanting to know more of the story I couldn't stop reading.
Thank you for the opportunity to belong to this ARC team, I am leaving my honest and voluntary opinion.
December 16, 2023
I can not express enough how grateful I am for this opportunity to be an arc reader for the second time for Vee Taylor. Words can not describe how blessed I am to have had the opportunity to share my excitement and experiences and to get to know Vee a little more personally.
I have been on this journey with Vee since the very beginning with One Chance. Having read all 3 of her books, they definitely just keep getting better and better each book that she writes.
Third Degree-- Elio's story of his loss and loneliness had my heart absolutely breaking for him. Until Gianna changed everything about Elio's world. This book had me absolutely swooning HARD! I loved the character growth that each of them had gone through individually and together. Even tho Elio was a simp for Gianna make NO MISTAKE, he would burn anything and everything in his path for her. He definitely was not a man to be messed with. I loved how Gianna did not let Elio get away with making a plan behind her back even tho it's what she wanted all along. Despite hiding some things from her friends, she always stayed true to herself and faced everything head-on. This book, without a doubt, is one of my new favorites from Vee Taylor. At first, with such a large age gap and large time jump, Vee did absolutely wonderful, making sure that the storyline did not drag at any point. She also made it pretty funny with Gianna teasing Elio and other previous characters from her other two books. I am SO SO PROUD of you Vee! Congratulations!
I have been on this journey with Vee since the very beginning with One Chance. Having read all 3 of her books, they definitely just keep getting better and better each book that she writes.
Third Degree-- Elio's story of his loss and loneliness had my heart absolutely breaking for him. Until Gianna changed everything about Elio's world. This book had me absolutely swooning HARD! I loved the character growth that each of them had gone through individually and together. Even tho Elio was a simp for Gianna make NO MISTAKE, he would burn anything and everything in his path for her. He definitely was not a man to be messed with. I loved how Gianna did not let Elio get away with making a plan behind her back even tho it's what she wanted all along. Despite hiding some things from her friends, she always stayed true to herself and faced everything head-on. This book, without a doubt, is one of my new favorites from Vee Taylor. At first, with such a large age gap and large time jump, Vee did absolutely wonderful, making sure that the storyline did not drag at any point. She also made it pretty funny with Gianna teasing Elio and other previous characters from her other two books. I am SO SO PROUD of you Vee! Congratulations!
December 30, 2023
This book was so good, I was hooked from start to finish first nothing can describe how hot Elio Marchetti is, oh my god. Vee Taylor really knows how to write a very hot and steamy age gap romance with a mix of mafia in it, I absolutely loved it.
Gianna and Elio’s connection aghhhh when they first met on the beach you can tell instantly how amazing their connection and chemistry is. He was going through the loss of his wife and he met a girl who was full of life and mysteries that he just wanted to uncover and know more about. Elio is so handsome and stunningly sexy like I was so drawn to his character, it wasn’t even funny. When they first met he was in his late thirties and she was 18 but they get reunited again when she turns thirty one.
Elio made a deal with her father that in order to have his deal with elio use his business for money laundering, he has to let his daughter gianna experience life and explore the world, which the dad agreed to do on one condition, when she turns 31 she has to get engaged to someone of his choosing, which they agree to which allowed all the time for Elio to put in a plan to win Gianna and have her.
Did I see the plot twist coming towards the end nope not at all wasn’t expecting that, but I’m so glad that it happened because it made the book all so much better. These Marchetti men are going to be the death of me, their all so hot. I’m so glad how this book ended, thank you Vee Taylor and Valentine PR for this amazing arc. ❤️😍🥰🌹🤭💕
Gianna and Elio’s connection aghhhh when they first met on the beach you can tell instantly how amazing their connection and chemistry is. He was going through the loss of his wife and he met a girl who was full of life and mysteries that he just wanted to uncover and know more about. Elio is so handsome and stunningly sexy like I was so drawn to his character, it wasn’t even funny. When they first met he was in his late thirties and she was 18 but they get reunited again when she turns thirty one.
Elio made a deal with her father that in order to have his deal with elio use his business for money laundering, he has to let his daughter gianna experience life and explore the world, which the dad agreed to do on one condition, when she turns 31 she has to get engaged to someone of his choosing, which they agree to which allowed all the time for Elio to put in a plan to win Gianna and have her.
Did I see the plot twist coming towards the end nope not at all wasn’t expecting that, but I’m so glad that it happened because it made the book all so much better. These Marchetti men are going to be the death of me, their all so hot. I’m so glad how this book ended, thank you Vee Taylor and Valentine PR for this amazing arc. ❤️😍🥰🌹🤭💕
December 30, 2023
marchetti men #3 has finally been released, whose protagonists are elio and daphne (hianna).
we know nothing about gianna from the previous books of the series, except that she’s a private girl and not yet ready to reveal her secrets to her friends; instead we know about elio that after his wife's death he never remarried and swore never to fall in love again.
when gianna and elio meet years before, when she’s just of age, a friendship is established between the two which leads them to get closer and closer, so much so that she feels so safe that she only falls asleep in her presence.
when they’re discovered, however, the father forbids Elio from ever approaching his daughter again.
having reached the age of 30, gianna knows that soon her father will call her home and find her a husband, but when, at her best friend's wedding, she meets elio again, something changes in her and she recognizes that she has never forgotten him.
i admit that initially as a book it didn't convince me but as i went on i changed my mind, because the relationship that is established between elio and gianna, despite the obstacles and differences, grows stronger and stronger over time.
in this book the protagonists are real and like all of us they are fighting against anxiety, depression, mourning; despite this, vee did a great job of balancing the romantic moments with the more important and serious ones.
we know nothing about gianna from the previous books of the series, except that she’s a private girl and not yet ready to reveal her secrets to her friends; instead we know about elio that after his wife's death he never remarried and swore never to fall in love again.
when gianna and elio meet years before, when she’s just of age, a friendship is established between the two which leads them to get closer and closer, so much so that she feels so safe that she only falls asleep in her presence.
when they’re discovered, however, the father forbids Elio from ever approaching his daughter again.
having reached the age of 30, gianna knows that soon her father will call her home and find her a husband, but when, at her best friend's wedding, she meets elio again, something changes in her and she recognizes that she has never forgotten him.
i admit that initially as a book it didn't convince me but as i went on i changed my mind, because the relationship that is established between elio and gianna, despite the obstacles and differences, grows stronger and stronger over time.
in this book the protagonists are real and like all of us they are fighting against anxiety, depression, mourning; despite this, vee did a great job of balancing the romantic moments with the more important and serious ones.
December 13, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️.5
I absolutely loved this book! I knew from the first few pages that I was going to be consumed by it. I am an absolute sucker for an age-gap romance, and this far exceeded my expectations. Gianna and Elio were so compatible and understood each other so well despite their age difference. When they met, Gianna was only 18 and emersed in a world she hated. She wanted the freedom to be who she wanted and to do things that excited her, and her Mafia life didn’t lend itself to that. While on a vacation, she met Elio while walking on the beach, and there was an instant spark and understanding that couldn’t be explained. They lived different lives, and Gianna knew the fate of hers, so she took what little time she had and lived in the moment with Elio. Little did they both know, their paths would cross in a different manner while Gianna was on her vacation, and Elio knew he had to help her. Twelve years later, they see each other again. Things are vastly different, yet their connection was even stronger. Elio knew that this time, he would do everything he could to keep Gianna, even if he had to be sneaky about it. He was ready to go to battle for her because he knew he’d never find another soulmate like her. The amount of love these two had for each other was insurmountable. They had both been a somber version of themselves ever since they parted those twelve years ago. Elio had the chance to change the trajectory of both of their lives, and you better believe he took that chance. Their love was just so beautiful. Elio treated Gianna like a princess… but in the bedroom… phew! He was something else! I adored this couple, and I will recommend this book every chance I get!
🌶️🌶️.5
I absolutely loved this book! I knew from the first few pages that I was going to be consumed by it. I am an absolute sucker for an age-gap romance, and this far exceeded my expectations. Gianna and Elio were so compatible and understood each other so well despite their age difference. When they met, Gianna was only 18 and emersed in a world she hated. She wanted the freedom to be who she wanted and to do things that excited her, and her Mafia life didn’t lend itself to that. While on a vacation, she met Elio while walking on the beach, and there was an instant spark and understanding that couldn’t be explained. They lived different lives, and Gianna knew the fate of hers, so she took what little time she had and lived in the moment with Elio. Little did they both know, their paths would cross in a different manner while Gianna was on her vacation, and Elio knew he had to help her. Twelve years later, they see each other again. Things are vastly different, yet their connection was even stronger. Elio knew that this time, he would do everything he could to keep Gianna, even if he had to be sneaky about it. He was ready to go to battle for her because he knew he’d never find another soulmate like her. The amount of love these two had for each other was insurmountable. They had both been a somber version of themselves ever since they parted those twelve years ago. Elio had the chance to change the trajectory of both of their lives, and you better believe he took that chance. Their love was just so beautiful. Elio treated Gianna like a princess… but in the bedroom… phew! He was something else! I adored this couple, and I will recommend this book every chance I get!
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