A Tangle of Serpents

by Alice Blackmoor

All Elizabeth wanted was to enjoy her kid-free nights with a few drinks and some quality people-watching at her favorite restaurant bars. But then she meets Damien Marchetti, and fate seems determined to push her firmly into the middle of his dark and dangerous world. As her personal and professional lives continue to collide, making her a person of interest to not one but two criminal organizations, will she be able to escape back to her normal, everyday life? Or will she be forever entangled with the serpents that rule in the dark?

A Tangle of Serpents is the first book in the Serpent's Nest mafia romance duology. It features mature themes, explicit content, and a strong female main character in her mid-30s who takes no crap from the men in her life, no matter how dangerous, powerful, or delicious they may be.

Genres: Romance, Dark Romance, Dark, Contemporary Romance, Ebooks, Contemporary

264 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 22, 2024

About the author

Alice Blackmoor is a voracious romance reader turned writer, who believes that anyone can start something new and powerful, no matter their age. Though her day job as a technical project manager is a perfect match for her Type A personality, writing is what makes her feel truly herself. Alice's debut series, "Serpent's Nest", is the culmination of years of maladapative daydreaming and wondering what-if.

If you can relate to quirky, opinionated, and independent-to-a-fault characters, perhaps you'll see yourself in the stories of the FMCs that Alice creates. Happy dreaming!

Reviews

[littlereadwriting]

Who else is here because of the podcast Here to Help?

[Elizabeth M. · Rating 2 out of 5]

I SO wanted to love this book. And I did like it…at first. The first 60% or so was good! However, the main plot ended and there was still about one hundred pages left. Our main plot ends, and then another plot begins. I can’t understand why the author would do that, other than for the sole reason of making this story a duet by stretching out the story. I really wish that the story could have just finished. It would have been a great, 300 or so page book. But in the second half, we spent way too much time fleshing out a story and a relationship that we already had an understanding of. And then the end? It made me furious! And unfortunately not in a good way. To avoid major spoilers I won’t talk about it, but I kind of felt like I had wasted my time getting attached to things that didn’t really matter. What we were left with was not really something that I’m too thrilled about continuing. In conclusion, the first part of the book was good, and I enjoyed it. But the last part felt unnecessary and really took down the quality of the whole story. Unfortunately a miss for me.


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

[Miccc · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5⭐️
But that ending, I just didn’t see coming…

[Hannah · Rating 2 out of 5]

I get the long game of this story and the potential relationship Elizabeth will have in the future but this book could have ended around 60%. The book felt like I finished one book and started reading a second book.

The first half held my attention and I enjoyed the drama. Elizabeth was a strong FMC so it was an enjoyable read at first. Then you lost me the second half. To much time was spent fleshing out the relationship after there was already a resolution.

Spice: 0/5

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

[Michelle Heiman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love, love, love!! I don't understand other reviews not liking the last 1/4 of the book. I loved it all the way through to the ultimate heart break ending. The spice level was perfect for me, and I can't wait to see where the story goes!

[Ada · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not a bad story, but I feel like the main story ended at about 60% before it shifted to a new story. I feel like the Maria’s character could have been introduced in the second book. I’m guessing the second one will explore Elizabeth and Vince’s story.

[Sara Wyrick · Rating 3 out of 5]

This one was a bit dark and it ended in the not happiest way. The second book isn’t available either :(

[breslibraryy · Rating 2 out of 5]

I would like to start by saying if a book isn't 3 stars or above for me I won't post a review because I don't have the heart to talk bad about a book but I did agree to post an honest review for an ARC copy so here it goes…

I have been a mafia romance reader since I was 14 on Wattpad and I'm always looking for one with a different plot because a lot of mafia romance books have the same plot just different characters so when I saw this one was about a single mom and a mafia don I was instantly interested.

I really wanted to enjoy this book and I did for the first 50% of the book… the first half was different it was exciting and kept me interested but then the main characters ended up together and there were still about 100+ pages left… it felt like the first book ended and I started reading a completely different book.

I get she is trying to drag out the first book to turn it into a duet but the second half of the book was a lot of unnecessary third-act breakups and drama. This book would be better as a novella. The ending blew me away and not in a good way I'll honestly only be reading the second book just so I can see how it plays out.

I did love the FMC Elizabeth though! She was so strong and independent, I loved her sassy attitude and her internal monologue was hilarious you never knew what she was going to say. I do wish we would've seen more of her motherly side though.. The book is about a single mom but the son is only ever mentioned which kinda sucked.

Overall this wasn't for me but it was still a decent read and it was a quick read so if you are a lover of mafia romance or just looking for a quick read you might want to check this out just because it wasn't for me doesn't me you won't enjoy it.

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

[DeAnn · Rating 5 out of 5]

You will not believe how this first installment of the duology ends! However, before we get there, you, potential reader, need to know how completely brilliant this author is. A Tangle of Serpents is her first novel published and it has a flare like none other. The author's voice can be clearly heard through her writing. It is distinctive from all other authors I've read. I devoured this story and loved every minute I spent in its pages, including the ending, of which you will see is more original than most other romances.

Alice Blackmoor's writing style included multiple points of view, repositioning of scenes, two climactic events, a developing romance with steamy encounters, mafia danger, and hint of a secondary romance, but just a foreshadowing of it.
Truly, the choices Alice made in her publishing journey demonstrated a business savy that supported the overall project. Look at the cover illustration: you'll
understand the connection when you read it. Her editing was perfection, as well. Many a seasoned author could learn from her attention to detail.

Thank you, Alice Blackmoor for adding your unique talents to the pool of my favorite authors. Please, please, please!!!!! I'm eagerly waiting to see what happens next with Vince and Elizabeth!

[Shelby McCoy · Rating 3 out of 5]

First off I love the cover of this book and that's what honestly drew me to it. I also love the FMC. Elizabeth is a strong, take no shit kinda woman and I absolutely loved her. Her internal monologue cracked me up! She is ever the optimist.. probably her biggest flaw and drove me a little crazy.

The MMC I expected a little more out of being a mafia don but he was still broody, dark, and a decently strong character. I did think the chemistry between the two MC's was good but as the book progressed it seemed to plateau and get repetitive.
If you are wanting XXX spice this is not the book for you. I would give it maybe .25 chili pepper for some of the scenes.
It ends on a cliffhanger (I love a good cliffhanger) and I was blown away (not in a good way) with what happened in the last 10 or so pages... I will probably pick up the second to see how the story progresses but the ending really was not my jam.

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

[Ella Dixon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mixed feelings - 3.75/5?? I fell into this quite easily but I think it left me wanting more. The relationship between Damien and Elizabeth happened so quick and I didn’t see much build up before they were involved. I would have liked more suspense with them. The general story was great and I knew something fishy was going on with Maria but I just didn’t know exactly how it was going to play out. Secretly wanted Vince and Elisabeth to get together ever since he got her Harry Potter reference LOL but I knew that as long as Damien was alive it wouldn’t happen. Didn’t expect him to die!! I would have liked to see them have more time but I realize that her love with Vince will definitely be much better in all aspects. My one major complaint is the writing - very great writing BUT the paragraphs are so long and it can be daunting to turn a page and just have it be a whole page of text with nothing breaking anything up. Seems silly but I think that’s why it took me longer than usual to finish this book.
Excited for the next one!

[Caitlin · Rating 4 out of 5]

• Mafia Romance
• Dark Elements
• JP MMC
• Strong FMC
• Multple POV
• Found Family
• No HEA

This is book one in a duet, I enjoyed it and I will read book 2 as I'm invested to see how this plays out.

The pacing was good, the plot was good - it was a Mafia story but with a twist. It held the same elements, darkness, enemies, death and retribution. The meeting between the MCs was due to curiousity and it went from there. There was tension between the two that worked up nicely, they didn't always agree and get along which gave the relationship normalcy.

The twists in the plot and the ending caught me off guard and left me reeling and needing book two for closure.

[Sarah Ramsey · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is a 2.73 star, at best. So I rounded up.

The book could have been a novella. There was a lot of fluff and very descriptive scenes that didn’t add to building the plot or building the characters. Pages of “and then I” and “after that”. It’s a “tell, not show” book. Not a lot of room for imagination on the readers behalf. The spice content is low and not descriptive enough. The MMC becomes overly possessive and not in the dark romance way. Plus it ends horribly (unless you’re going to read the second book - which I won’t). She could have ended it at 70% and it would have been a fine book.

[Stefanie McLain · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have tears running down my face as I write this. I am gutted by the ending. Yes there is a major heart stopping cliffhanger at the end of this book. Be ready to have your heart ripped out of your chest, but the build up to that point is amazing. You have a smart, strong, farce FMC that holds her ground. Then the typical alpha male MMC that is anything but typical. The banter between them is chef’s kiss, which makes the little bit of spice that happens all the hotter. Now please do check your trigger warnings for this book as it does have some dark topics.

Overall I would say that this book is a deep gray, solid 5 stars, and 2 peppers.

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was forewarned about the absence of a happily-ever-after, but nothing prepared me for the emotional rollercoaster this book took me on. The ending left me utterly devastated, almost in tears. Despite my heartbreak, I couldn't help but love the book. Liz's character, with her sass, humor, stubbornness, and strength, was a standout for me. Damien's journey throughout the book was compelling and full of depth. While the ending wasn't what I hoped for, the overall story was incredibly gripping and well-crafted. Can't wait to see what happens next, though I have some hopes and dreams about that.

[Carrie · Rating 3 out of 5]

The reason I gave this book 3 stars instead of 4 (I'm kinda picky with my 5's) was because I REALLY thought it was going to go one direction, was disappointed at the ending (IYKYK but I don't want to spoil anything) however because of the way things ended, I can't NOT read the next book.

I DID really like how strong Elizabeth was. I always appreciate a strong FMC (I hate the whiny ones). So there is that...

[Sammye · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first book in the Serpent’s Nest series. It was an emotional roller coaster ride. The plot was entertaining and compelling. I loved Damien’s and Elizabeth’s amazing story. It does end in a heart stopping cliffhanger. It will be interesting to see how it plays out.

[Samantha Cote · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not what I was expecting

On a spice level it’s like 1/5. The overall story was good. I’m not one for predictable storylines. There were some parts that were but I was happy for a storyline that wasn’t always a typical mafia book.

[sasha manojlovic · Rating 2 out of 5]

2/5 ⭐️

the only reason why i’m not giving it a 1 star is because of the end. at 60% the book should’ve been done. the plot literally ended. then another one starts up?!?! idk, it was fine i guess. maybe i’ll read the second one when it comes out just because of the way it ended

[Gaby · Rating 3 out of 5]

so thw first half was a well written book, then came chapters 24- 31.... just skip them cause then there is an all new plot to follow. but the way it ends doesn't leave a cliff hanger. I don't really see a need in the second book

[Rachelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Got this book on stuff your kindle day, she wasn’t wrong there will be heartbreak. But worth it.

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked the story, could have used more smut and a little bit more romance. I think I have a solid prediction on the second book though.

[Manda Debbie · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.25 stars!!! I found this book pretty predictable, but it’s a pretty quick read and I wanna know the rest of the story! On to book 2!

[Kendra · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given this advance copy for my honest review of this book. So....I am going to try to give my best review without any spoilers because this book brought on so many emotions. Also since I literally just threw my kindle across the room because of this book it brought on many many emotions until the very last page. Also I believe this is the first book that Alice Blackmoor has written and can I just be frank with you author. You need to be writing a lot more books because this book was AMAZING. So this book has three main characters of such but only two in the love story portions at least in this book (there's hint of things happening in the future at least I am hoping). I absolutely loved this book. Just don't talk to my two friends who heard some cuss words from the end of the book.
But first let's talk about the characters. Elizabeth has such a wide arrange personality. When you meet Elizabeth she is at a bar currently faced with her ex-husband wanting their son to meet his current/mistress. She is not only trying to figure out her life from that but also people-watching (my FAVORITE HOBBY). When a guy approaches her from the bar and then Elizabeth life changes from then on. When her people-watching hobby gets her in a lot of trouble. Anyway, she's like an introvert/ tough chick. She is so well rounded and I want to be her friend. Then you have Vince, the best friend to the main guy. Vince is like a puppy with his personality and has a nasty bite. But he is more then what he shows and you pick it up that he could have some feelings that he doesn't show. Anyways, author portrays him so well in the way his looks are described but his many different personalities being shown till the end of the book (still not happy about). Then you got the main guy, Damien. Holy hotness on a cracker. He is the mafia guy that you know has a soft side and also a very dark side. He is super protective which of course drives Elizabeth nuts in the book. Also trying to avoid his feelings for the girl. But, he's got so much going on with his personality and you see it all. Especially when you are inside his head which is throughout the book. Readers can see that he fell first before he even realizes it. Characters are amazing and well rounded. I could totally picture all three and will be looking for them when I go out.
The plot in this book is absolutely amazing. There are so many foreshadows throughout the book and yet not ALL MY QUESTIONS HAVE BEEN ANSWERED in this book. Which is why I believe there is a second book. The author hides things throughout the book and you have to be observant from the get go kind of like how Elizabeth is. Find the pieces in the middle of the lines. I absolutely loved how they didn't just fall in love in this book. I loved how their weird friendship grows and grows till someone just falls. This book has action though, I still think one of the scene there could be more that is happening. Also loved how there were pieces of other famous lines from other books that I know. Harry Potter....and Princess Bride...yes please, are just a few. The ending.......I can't talk much but it came out of no where and you are left with questioning on why you read the book. If you do not like cliffhangers (like myself) you might want to wait till book 2 comes out. But I can't wait to read it when it does. If Alice Blackmoor is reading this amazing review...please message me to read book 2 like ASAP...I need the details. I highly recommend this book no matter if I threw my kindle to the ground at the end.

[Laura Ramsay · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 rounded up to 4 stars.

Elizabeth is a great main character. I really enjoyed reading a book where we have a mature female lead who stands up for herself and backs it up, too. I found her to be really relatable, and she made me laugh out loud a good few times.

I liked Damien as the male main character well enough, but I feel like he was missing some edge. He's a mafia Don, so I expected him to have more bite than he did.

Vincenzo was definitely a hit for me. He's a great character, and I'd love to see more of him.

The pacing of the story was pretty good, but there was one point when I thought the story was coming to a close, but there was actually still a good chunk of the book to go. What followed felt like a way to extend the book just for the purpose of making it longer. I'm not a fan of how the book ended. It felt unnecessary to me.

I'll probably still pick up the second book when it comes out, just to see how things get wrapped up.

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

[GKP2460 · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Tangle Of Serpents is my first read by this author and is book 1 in The Serpents Nest duology.

“I never thought I’d see the day. Damien Marchetti has met his match."

And his match comes in the form of
Elizabeth Greystone. She's a force to be reckoned with. She's definitely his match in every sense of the word. Damien Marchetti is a force himself. It takes him by surprise the way he feels about Elizabeth. Their story is intense consuming. Be aware this is only part 1 so this book ends on one HUGE, SURPRISING, UNEXPECTED cliffhanger (which I'm not a fan of) but my goodness is it worth the read! A Tangle Of Serpents hits in all the right places to make it a memorable story.

[Shifty Bugger · Rating 5 out of 5]

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

OMG! This story was one mighty crazy roller-coaster ride of emotions, it did not disapoint, the story was captivating and the characters really were sensational. Mia is divorced with a little boy she works as a Graphic Designer, she likes to sit at bars and people watch, Vince started talking to her while he was waiting for a drink, then she met Damien and that's when sparks were flying between them. Damien is a Mafia Boss he seems to be Elizabeth's savior. O and I was gobsmacked with that ending. I cannot wait for the next book.

[Amy Reads Romance · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an incredible debut novel. The characters are well developed, and the story is a complex tapestry of emotions. The cliffhanger ending was shattering, and I'm wringing my hands waiting for the next book to conclude the story. This is absolutely one click worthy.

I received an advance reader copy via Book Sirens and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.

[Chelsea Anders · Rating 5 out of 5]

Elizabeth Greystone is #GOALS

I love (and love to hate) the characters in this book! The ultimate twist ending will have you dying for book two!