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Vittorio Crime Family #1
High Stakes
There are a million reasons why I should stay away from Vincent Cesare.
This was supposed to be temporary. I was supposed to deal for his illegal card games and get some quick cash. That was it. I wasn’t supposed to fall for him.
Little by little, I see the monster grinning at me through the cracks in his pretty suit. He won't tell me what he does, and I'm not sure I want to know. The darkness in his eyes terrifies me. He's seduced me into his web of lies with his charm, and now I'm trapped in his life. He's taken control over me without me even realizing...or resisting.
I'm in way over my head.
He promised that nothing would ever happen to me. The Vittorio family wants me dead and there's only one person I can turn to. But what scares me is what I'll have to do.
I'll need to become his.
Author's Note: This is a dark romance novel, it contains themes of violence and mature situations that could make readers uncomfortable.
This was supposed to be temporary. I was supposed to deal for his illegal card games and get some quick cash. That was it. I wasn’t supposed to fall for him.
Little by little, I see the monster grinning at me through the cracks in his pretty suit. He won't tell me what he does, and I'm not sure I want to know. The darkness in his eyes terrifies me. He's seduced me into his web of lies with his charm, and now I'm trapped in his life. He's taken control over me without me even realizing...or resisting.
I'm in way over my head.
He promised that nothing would ever happen to me. The Vittorio family wants me dead and there's only one person I can turn to. But what scares me is what I'll have to do.
I'll need to become his.
Author's Note: This is a dark romance novel, it contains themes of violence and mature situations that could make readers uncomfortable.
336 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 29, 2014
529 people are currently reading
2531 people want to read
About the author
Vanessa Waltz
36 books1,488 followersVanessa Waltz is an author of Dark Bad Boy Romance and lives in Seattle with her two ill-behaved cats.
Before she settled in Seattle, she lived in Northern California where she studied English Literature at San Jose State University. She pursued a career in medicine before making an about-face to write full-time. She also pens psychological thrillers as Rachel Hargrove.
She enjoys beer tasting, live music venues, and singing her heart out at horrified bar patrons.
Vanessa is represented by Jill Marsal of Marsal Lyon Literary Agency.
Email: info@vanessawaltzbooks.com
Website: www.vanessawaltzbooks.com
Facebook Group: http://bit.ly/2JQ4PZ9
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2JQ7i5R
Newsletter: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webfor...
Before she settled in Seattle, she lived in Northern California where she studied English Literature at San Jose State University. She pursued a career in medicine before making an about-face to write full-time. She also pens psychological thrillers as Rachel Hargrove.
She enjoys beer tasting, live music venues, and singing her heart out at horrified bar patrons.
Vanessa is represented by Jill Marsal of Marsal Lyon Literary Agency.
Email: info@vanessawaltzbooks.com
Website: www.vanessawaltzbooks.com
Facebook Group: http://bit.ly/2JQ4PZ9
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2JQ7i5R
Newsletter: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webfor...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 182 reviews
August 4, 2014
3 Stars
____________________________________________
About The Story
____________________________________________
High Stakes by Vanessa Waltz is a pretty decent read, I love Mafia Romance, it doesn't have to be dark, the book just has to engage me. Adriana and Vincent were very original characters in my opinion. Adriana being the struggling college student, who has a dark past and also happens to be a kleptomaniac. Vincent, a captain in the Mafia, he specialises in illegal gambling. The games can be held at any given venue, from an upscale hotel to a seedy rundown building in a bad neighbourhood.
Before I give you my thoughts, I think I should tell you a little bit more about Adriana. Like I said, she's a struggling college student, she happens to like stealing not because she needs the stuff she steals but because she can't help it. She also happens to be a pretty good card dealer, she supports her leech of a mother. Ironically her mother seems to suffer from a hoarding problem, obviously the apple does not fall too far from the tree in this case. Adriana's father was murdered in front of her when she was younger, which has given her emotional scars.
Now to the part where she and Vincent meet, Adriana's friend convinces her to go out (Adriana is not a very social person) one night, spread her wings so to speak. Jackie, who is her friends cousin takes them to an illegal game, and what do you know, the host is Vincent. One of the dealers for the game called in sick and Adriana ends up filling in. And there you are, this is how she and Vincent meet. She's instantly attracted to him, while he seems not to notice or care.
____________________________________________
What'd I Think Of All Of This?
____________________________________________
While both character were fresh, and original, something was definitely missing in this book. Apart from reading about Adriana's relationship with her mother, and about her and Vincent's budding romance and some conflict here and there, not much happened in this book. The story lacked intensity, it was predictable and while I don't mind predictability, I do need intensity. I really didn't feel Vincent and Adriana's connection, Adriana was clingy at times, and I really don't understand when Vincent began liking/loving her. It felt like he was only going after her because he could. Perhaps this book should have had a dual POV.
And then there are some issues that were abandoned in this book. I feel like there should be a second book but it doesn't look like there will be.
This is a three star review but it sounds negative, but I did like this story. The sex scenes were scorching hot, and it takes a lot to rile me up... Trust me. Yes it was predictable but had the author elaborated in some parts, the story would have been more exciting. I'm not a demanding reader, but I do like detail. And lastly the ending, I love a good HEA but this one was abrupt, I honestly feel like there should be a second book, perhaps in Vincent's POV, a continuation of the story.
____________________________________________
My Favourite Quotes
____________________________________________
"What is it you want?"
"Complete control..." the fingers stroking my arm squeeze.
"Over you."
"Will you hurt me?"
He grins at my fear. Maybe he really is a monster.
"I'll take it easy on you."
I've never felt this safe in my life. When I'm with him, I'm not afraid of the dark.
He is the dark.
ARC kindly provided by author in return for an honest review
____________________________________________
About The Story
____________________________________________
High Stakes by Vanessa Waltz is a pretty decent read, I love Mafia Romance, it doesn't have to be dark, the book just has to engage me. Adriana and Vincent were very original characters in my opinion. Adriana being the struggling college student, who has a dark past and also happens to be a kleptomaniac. Vincent, a captain in the Mafia, he specialises in illegal gambling. The games can be held at any given venue, from an upscale hotel to a seedy rundown building in a bad neighbourhood.
Before I give you my thoughts, I think I should tell you a little bit more about Adriana. Like I said, she's a struggling college student, she happens to like stealing not because she needs the stuff she steals but because she can't help it. She also happens to be a pretty good card dealer, she supports her leech of a mother. Ironically her mother seems to suffer from a hoarding problem, obviously the apple does not fall too far from the tree in this case. Adriana's father was murdered in front of her when she was younger, which has given her emotional scars.
Now to the part where she and Vincent meet, Adriana's friend convinces her to go out (Adriana is not a very social person) one night, spread her wings so to speak. Jackie, who is her friends cousin takes them to an illegal game, and what do you know, the host is Vincent. One of the dealers for the game called in sick and Adriana ends up filling in. And there you are, this is how she and Vincent meet. She's instantly attracted to him, while he seems not to notice or care.
____________________________________________
What'd I Think Of All Of This?
____________________________________________
While both character were fresh, and original, something was definitely missing in this book. Apart from reading about Adriana's relationship with her mother, and about her and Vincent's budding romance and some conflict here and there, not much happened in this book. The story lacked intensity, it was predictable and while I don't mind predictability, I do need intensity. I really didn't feel Vincent and Adriana's connection, Adriana was clingy at times, and I really don't understand when Vincent began liking/loving her. It felt like he was only going after her because he could. Perhaps this book should have had a dual POV.
And then there are some issues that were abandoned in this book. I feel like there should be a second book but it doesn't look like there will be.
This is a three star review but it sounds negative, but I did like this story. The sex scenes were scorching hot, and it takes a lot to rile me up... Trust me. Yes it was predictable but had the author elaborated in some parts, the story would have been more exciting. I'm not a demanding reader, but I do like detail. And lastly the ending, I love a good HEA but this one was abrupt, I honestly feel like there should be a second book, perhaps in Vincent's POV, a continuation of the story.
____________________________________________
My Favourite Quotes
____________________________________________
"What is it you want?"
"Complete control..." the fingers stroking my arm squeeze.
"Over you."
"Will you hurt me?"
He grins at my fear. Maybe he really is a monster.
"I'll take it easy on you."
I've never felt this safe in my life. When I'm with him, I'm not afraid of the dark.
He is the dark.
ARC kindly provided by author in return for an honest review
August 6, 2014
♥♥♥ 3 Stars ♥♥♥
Once I had read the blurb, this book intrigued me enough that I knew I had to read it. While I did like it, there were also parts that I didn't care for so much. But, it wasn't a horrible read or anything.
Adriana is college student, who is struggling to make ends meet. This is because she has to also take care of her mother who seems to be always asking Adriana for money for this and that. Adriana has gone through a traumatizing event where her father was killed in front of her. Since then she suffers from nightmares. She also is a kleptomaniac who is constantly stealing things for the thrill of it. And, she drinks quite a bit of booze to deal with her stress.
● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●
"What is it you want?"
"Complete control..." the fingers stroking my arm squeeze.
"Over you."
● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●
Things turn around for Adriana when she meets Vincent, a captain from the Vittorio mafia family, at a poker gathering. Adriana has always been good with cards, since she was young. When Vincent offers her a job as a card dealer, she accepts because of the money she will be making. Even though, she doesn't exactly have good vibes about the whole thing. That doesn't stop her from lusting after him either.
First off, I enjoyed the story line, in fact it was really able to hold my attention with all the Mafia things going on. I really liked that part of the book, despite some parts being a bit predictable. Still, it was interesting.
● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●
'I've never felt this safe in my life. When I'm with him, I'm not afraid of the dark.
He is the dark.'
● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●
My first impression of Adriana was not very good, she had a drinking and stealing problem, which I thought she needed help for but unfortunately never got. I also thought she was a bit judgmental in her thinking at times, especially when it came to her mother. And, even though I didn't like her mother, she kind of reminded me of Adriana in some ways too, which was kind of funny that Adriana herself never saw it. I can't say that I liked her 100%, but after a while, near the end, I will say that she did slightly grow on me.
Vincent was very intriguing from the start. He had that confident brooding air about him. And holy moly was this man intense. He was a total mercurial, dominating, alpha. There were moments where he I couldn't really understand what Vincent was feeling was or thinking. So, I kind of wish we would of had a bit of his POV. There were even moments he scared crap out of me. The sex scenes while hot, were also very raw and gritty. I even cringed a bit, and I've read some dark messed up things. Like I said, this man was REALLY intense.
● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●
“You were made for me.”
● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●
I did enjoy the story for the most part, I just felt like there was some things missing from this book. I just wish I could have felt a little bit more of a connection between Adriana and Vincent, than when they were just having scorching sex. I would have liked to have known Vincent the person a little better as well. To me, they both kind of fell for each other rather suddenly but I couldn't really feel it. And the ending was a bit abrupt to me, too. I would have liked an epilogue or something more because it almost felt like it wasn't finished yet. Overall, it was a good read, not great, but just good.
~ARC kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.~
December 12, 2015
College Girl Meets Mafia Capo
This was a good book and a worthwhile read. I liked the characters and the story was entertaining. It wasn't as dark as I'd imagined, but did have a gritty feel to it. The sex was hot, but would have liked a little more intensity in the rest of the book. I just never had that edge of my seat, pulse-racing feeling that I would have expected with shootouts, assassination attempts, and all other sorts of illicit activities.
I did like the ending, at least I did until I read the teaser for book 2. I hope that the next book doesn't mess it all up for Vincent and Adriana!
This was a good book and a worthwhile read. I liked the characters and the story was entertaining. It wasn't as dark as I'd imagined, but did have a gritty feel to it. The sex was hot, but would have liked a little more intensity in the rest of the book. I just never had that edge of my seat, pulse-racing feeling that I would have expected with shootouts, assassination attempts, and all other sorts of illicit activities.
I did like the ending, at least I did until I read the teaser for book 2. I hope that the next book doesn't mess it all up for Vincent and Adriana!
August 7, 2014
4.5 Hot Capo Stars!
What can I say, I'm a total mafia, bad boy book whore. And this Capo did not disappoint! Hot damn!
Adriana is a struggling student at Columbia University. If being a student with loans isn't hard enough, she's got a mother that sucks every last dime she's got. Her father is gone, nightmares of his gruesome murder still plaguing her sleep. She needs cash pronto. When a friend invites her to an underground gambling party, she's drawn to the tables. She's played cards since a kid...knows how to deal how to count cards. This would be a great gig...if only it wasn't involving a notorious crime family.
Vincent Cesare is a Capo in the infamous Italian mafia Vittorio family. He's not a good guy and doesn't claim to be. When he enters the poker party and notices the bombshell watching his every move, he's smugly not surprised. He's hot, has that bad-boy draw. But when this chick suddenly fills in for a dealer that called in sick, he has no excuse but to watch her...make sure she knows her cards...and he likes what he sees.
All Adriana's warning bells go off. She knows this is bad news. Shit, her father likely was killed by mafia men for all she knows...but the tips are huge and she's drawn to the Capo. She knows she should stay away but she finds herself showing her interest...will he take the bait? Should she WANT him to?
Vince tries to steer Adriana away from him. He has no business with an Ivey League student. But she persists and he can't resist. He wants to have complete control of her. Will she give it to him? Total domination.
Damn I love a good mafia book. Vince is the perfect alpha hot bad man you just want to fix. He doesn't commit. But there's something about Adriana that makes him want just her... He warns her one last time because once he takes her, she can't go back. She's his...
Can Adriana commit to a life with a man she knows is responsible for so much violence and death? Can she keep the bad away from the good in her life...her friends, her education? Or will those boundaries collide?
I read this book in a day. Fell for Vince...in all his dominant roughness in and out of the bedroom. This is not a hearts and flower romance. The sex is raw and edgy and FUCKHOT. The subject matter dark but a love story is buried beneath the violence and crime.
Looking forward to more darkness from Ms. Waltz! Pretty please!
And I thank you!
Advanced reader's copy received by author in exchange of an honest review.
What can I say, I'm a total mafia, bad boy book whore. And this Capo did not disappoint! Hot damn!
Adriana is a struggling student at Columbia University. If being a student with loans isn't hard enough, she's got a mother that sucks every last dime she's got. Her father is gone, nightmares of his gruesome murder still plaguing her sleep. She needs cash pronto. When a friend invites her to an underground gambling party, she's drawn to the tables. She's played cards since a kid...knows how to deal how to count cards. This would be a great gig...if only it wasn't involving a notorious crime family.
Vincent Cesare is a Capo in the infamous Italian mafia Vittorio family. He's not a good guy and doesn't claim to be. When he enters the poker party and notices the bombshell watching his every move, he's smugly not surprised. He's hot, has that bad-boy draw. But when this chick suddenly fills in for a dealer that called in sick, he has no excuse but to watch her...make sure she knows her cards...and he likes what he sees.
All Adriana's warning bells go off. She knows this is bad news. Shit, her father likely was killed by mafia men for all she knows...but the tips are huge and she's drawn to the Capo. She knows she should stay away but she finds herself showing her interest...will he take the bait? Should she WANT him to?
Vince tries to steer Adriana away from him. He has no business with an Ivey League student. But she persists and he can't resist. He wants to have complete control of her. Will she give it to him? Total domination.
Damn I love a good mafia book. Vince is the perfect alpha hot bad man you just want to fix. He doesn't commit. But there's something about Adriana that makes him want just her... He warns her one last time because once he takes her, she can't go back. She's his...
Can Adriana commit to a life with a man she knows is responsible for so much violence and death? Can she keep the bad away from the good in her life...her friends, her education? Or will those boundaries collide?
I read this book in a day. Fell for Vince...in all his dominant roughness in and out of the bedroom. This is not a hearts and flower romance. The sex is raw and edgy and FUCKHOT. The subject matter dark but a love story is buried beneath the violence and crime.
Looking forward to more darkness from Ms. Waltz! Pretty please!
And I thank you!
Advanced reader's copy received by author in exchange of an honest review.
March 13, 2020
*****FIVE STARS*****
"When I’m with him, I’m not afraid of the dark. He is the dark."
This is my third read of HIGH STAKES and my first review posting. Initial rating was 4 Stars and I can't remember why exactly, but a book that keeps me coming back for more has got to be worth more than that. It's one of those books that just gets better with time. One of my all-time favorite mafia romances to escape to. The mafia vibe I get from this one feels so real, especially from the hero--a captain in the Vittorio Crime Family--Vincent Cesare. My Italian paramour.
Our heroine, Adriana, is...unique-ish. She's got a few vices, one being her kleptomaniac tendencies. She's not little Ms. Perfect--far from it--and I really liked that. The author made the heroine's flaws work in her favor, making Adriana more interesting (at least to me). BUT the one responsible for giving me all the giddy feelings, was Vince. I'm trying real hard not to squee for this guy right now, but damn, he's my kind of hero. He's unapologetically alpha and my ultimate ruination. Excuse me while I sigh. I applaud Adriana for handling him just right. She wasn't a doormat, thank goodness. They have amazing chemistry together and their sexy times are OFF THE CHARTS. The kind that come with a WARNING from me: there's some BDSM here. I'm actually not a big fan of BDSM but a little bit can be a whole lot of fun, like in this book. Me: 'Spank me, Vince, I've been a bad girl. I don't need any safe words.' *lol* The mafia shenanigans, the angst, the drama, the sex, it all made this a page-turner.
Only thing I didn't enjoy was Adriana's mother. I wanted to scream at her badly.
The book ends with a HEA. However, if it wasn't because I know their story continues in book 2, DOUBLE BLIND, I probably would have felt it was an abrupt ending. I've read that book twice already and will read it again today because I need more Adriana & Vince. It does get rough for these two in the sequel, but rest assured there is a HEA in that one too.
Note: Story ends @ 90% (Kindle version). The first chapter for DOUBLE BLIND is included.
(First read in January 2015)
"When I’m with him, I’m not afraid of the dark. He is the dark."
This is my third read of HIGH STAKES and my first review posting. Initial rating was 4 Stars and I can't remember why exactly, but a book that keeps me coming back for more has got to be worth more than that. It's one of those books that just gets better with time. One of my all-time favorite mafia romances to escape to. The mafia vibe I get from this one feels so real, especially from the hero--a captain in the Vittorio Crime Family--Vincent Cesare. My Italian paramour.
Our heroine, Adriana, is...unique-ish. She's got a few vices, one being her kleptomaniac tendencies. She's not little Ms. Perfect--far from it--and I really liked that. The author made the heroine's flaws work in her favor, making Adriana more interesting (at least to me). BUT the one responsible for giving me all the giddy feelings, was Vince. I'm trying real hard not to squee for this guy right now, but damn, he's my kind of hero. He's unapologetically alpha and my ultimate ruination. Excuse me while I sigh. I applaud Adriana for handling him just right. She wasn't a doormat, thank goodness. They have amazing chemistry together and their sexy times are OFF THE CHARTS. The kind that come with a WARNING from me: there's some BDSM here. I'm actually not a big fan of BDSM but a little bit can be a whole lot of fun, like in this book. Me: 'Spank me, Vince, I've been a bad girl. I don't need any safe words.' *lol* The mafia shenanigans, the angst, the drama, the sex, it all made this a page-turner.
Only thing I didn't enjoy was Adriana's mother. I wanted to scream at her badly.
The book ends with a HEA. However, if it wasn't because I know their story continues in book 2, DOUBLE BLIND, I probably would have felt it was an abrupt ending. I've read that book twice already and will read it again today because I need more Adriana & Vince. It does get rough for these two in the sequel, but rest assured there is a HEA in that one too.
Note: Story ends @ 90% (Kindle version). The first chapter for DOUBLE BLIND is included.
(First read in January 2015)
Read
September 3, 2016DNF
One of the weirdest and dumbest heroines ever.
I don’t believe any girl would be as ridiculous as her. She was bland, whiny, TSTL and selfish. Her stupidity was amazing - I lost count of how many times she acted like an idiot. The only thing she cared about was her pathetic financial life.
She rarely showed any concern for her safety a truly awful heroine.
August 2, 2014
"Will you hurt me?"
He grins at my fear. Maybe he really is a monster.
"I'll take it easy on you."
Don't get me wrong, I did enjoy reading this. It started off REALLY GOOD. But it was downhill from there...
It just wasn't earth shattering, I guess. It certainly didn't blow my mind.
It was actually quite predictable and...well, uneventful.
The its and bits of action lasted very short.
It was supposed to be a "dark romance" but I didn't feel anything dark...
The occasional conflicts between Adriana and Vincent weren't intense.
I couldn't feel the connection between them either. It felt like Adriana was just attracted to him and wanted someone that could protect her. And Vincent? I have no idea why he "loved" her. AT ALL. He wasn't even that interested in her in the beginning of the book and then...
...all of a sudden he is head-over-hills in love with her!
And it ended in a very anticlimactic manner. I thought I was missing some pages or something!
Maybe I would have liked this better if I've read it before Monster in His Eyes...
DAMN YOU IGNAZIO VITALE! You've ruined me for every other Italian mobster out there FOR GOOD!
August 6, 2014
☆ I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you SO MUCH hun!! ☆
High Stakes was a good read but didn't wow me. I mean, it had a decent plot and set of characters and all, but it was nothing outside of the ordinary from what I've come across.
Everything kind of fell on a non-notable level and then all of a sudden all of the "HIGH STAKES" began to take their pitch one after another quite late in the game. In other words, things were a bit inconsistent with the story line and even the romance department.
I don't know. I did like it, but at the same time, maybe it was the execution that kind of fell short for me; not to mention, that it was supposed to be a "mafia involved" type of read so I expected dark themes, but it didn't happen for me.
All and all, not a bad read but it did feel as if something was missing or something fell short of development.
I, did however, still manage to enjoy it in my own way, so hence the 3 star rating. Nice job Vanessa!! :)
High Stakes was a good read but didn't wow me. I mean, it had a decent plot and set of characters and all, but it was nothing outside of the ordinary from what I've come across.
Everything kind of fell on a non-notable level and then all of a sudden all of the "HIGH STAKES" began to take their pitch one after another quite late in the game. In other words, things were a bit inconsistent with the story line and even the romance department.
I don't know. I did like it, but at the same time, maybe it was the execution that kind of fell short for me; not to mention, that it was supposed to be a "mafia involved" type of read so I expected dark themes, but it didn't happen for me.
All and all, not a bad read but it did feel as if something was missing or something fell short of development.
I, did however, still manage to enjoy it in my own way, so hence the 3 star rating. Nice job Vanessa!! :)
October 8, 2015
High Stakes was my first read by Vanessa Waltz and probably my last. I didn't enjoy this book at all, absolutely nothing worked for me. Adrianna was one of the worst h's I have ever read. There was nothing good about her character and I especially hated how she was constantly feeling sorry for herself and saying how jealous she was about the people around her. She also ran so hot and cold I had whiplash. Also I didn't enjoy the sex. I personally don't enjoy reading about a woman being slapped in the face, hit with a belt or choked to the point of being light headed and needing to cover bruising on ones neck with makeup. That just isn't for me.
February 4, 2026
2.5 stars Maybe if I had read this 10 Years ago it probably would have been thrilling. But today It just fell flat for me. The writing was good but I got bored. We are told that the H is a monster etc. but I Guess the fmc is a monster tamer. Maybe I’ve been reading too much of Deathdolls stuff but this was tame to me. Brilliant card counting Columbia student starts dealing cards for mafia capo. They have a few slaps, spanks and belting sand then fall in love. He has to protect her from his boss, the fbi , her mother and the other bad guys.
August 8, 2014
High Stakes is neither a fluffy romance nor a very dark one. There is mild BDSM element and the story revolves around the Vittorio crime business. We have a fast moving plot that kept me engage and a mafia hero who is dangerous yet protective that have me rooting for him. My only problem is Adriana, the heroine.
Adriana is a college student who had a troubled past and a mum who is a pain in the ass. She is struggling to pay off her fees and her mum at the same time. One day, she ran into an illegal card game with her friends and met the Vittorio's Capo, Vincent Cesare. Due to her talent in cards, she volunteer to step in as their dealer and much to her surprised her earn some big bucks during that night from the pay cut and tips. Now she wanted more. Not only the money, but she wanted Vincent as well. Aren't she fearless?
Vincent Cesare is very much the classic mafia hero that we have meet before. He is sexy, suave and confident. He exudes power and danger. He even like some kink in his sex. What's not to love?
After Adriana successfully pursue him (which didn't take much effort from her behalf), he became the committed, protective and understanding boyfriend that everyone wish for. What I don't understand is why her? I don't believe that she is the first ever girl that let him spank her.
Then the reality of who Vincent is finally caught up to Adriana. I mean she knew who is he from the get go, but when bullet start flying, people start dying and Vincent start showing how dangerous he can be, poor Adriana start to freak the hell out.
Adriana is a flawed character and a walking contradiction. She is often jealous of her wealthy friend, Maria who doesn't have a care for the world and can hit the bar at any day. Which is understandable. But then she had a habit of stealing, which she claimed is a bad habit she can't overcome. Is okay for her to steal petty things, but she won't accept any charity from Vincent. I'm puzzled by her twisted logic.
At one hand, she knew Vincent is with the mobster, but at another hand she blamed him for putting her in danger. Come on, woman! You can't just professed your love and then balked at the idea when you are in danger because of him.
I don't even see why is Adriana so deserving of Vincent's dedication. He was so committed in the relationship and was so good to her. What she did in return to deserve that? I think he deserve someone who love him for who he is. These two pretty much solved every fight and argument with sex.
Overall, I think this is a very well written story that kept me turning pages till the end. The sex scenes were great despite me not liking the heroine. If only Adriana is a more likable heroine, this would have been a great pleasant read.
Adriana is a college student who had a troubled past and a mum who is a pain in the ass. She is struggling to pay off her fees and her mum at the same time. One day, she ran into an illegal card game with her friends and met the Vittorio's Capo, Vincent Cesare. Due to her talent in cards, she volunteer to step in as their dealer and much to her surprised her earn some big bucks during that night from the pay cut and tips. Now she wanted more. Not only the money, but she wanted Vincent as well. Aren't she fearless?
Vincent Cesare is very much the classic mafia hero that we have meet before. He is sexy, suave and confident. He exudes power and danger. He even like some kink in his sex. What's not to love?
After Adriana successfully pursue him (which didn't take much effort from her behalf), he became the committed, protective and understanding boyfriend that everyone wish for. What I don't understand is why her? I don't believe that she is the first ever girl that let him spank her.
Then the reality of who Vincent is finally caught up to Adriana. I mean she knew who is he from the get go, but when bullet start flying, people start dying and Vincent start showing how dangerous he can be, poor Adriana start to freak the hell out.
Adriana is a flawed character and a walking contradiction. She is often jealous of her wealthy friend, Maria who doesn't have a care for the world and can hit the bar at any day. Which is understandable. But then she had a habit of stealing, which she claimed is a bad habit she can't overcome. Is okay for her to steal petty things, but she won't accept any charity from Vincent. I'm puzzled by her twisted logic.
At one hand, she knew Vincent is with the mobster, but at another hand she blamed him for putting her in danger. Come on, woman! You can't just professed your love and then balked at the idea when you are in danger because of him.
I don't even see why is Adriana so deserving of Vincent's dedication. He was so committed in the relationship and was so good to her. What she did in return to deserve that? I think he deserve someone who love him for who he is. These two pretty much solved every fight and argument with sex.
Overall, I think this is a very well written story that kept me turning pages till the end. The sex scenes were great despite me not liking the heroine. If only Adriana is a more likable heroine, this would have been a great pleasant read.
July 18, 2015
DNF
This is my opinion. You may like the book, but it did not work for me and I love romances that incorporate mobs.
The heroine is a thief which I hate. I would not mind if she was poor and had to steal food to survive, but she steals gum and pens and other stuff for the thrill. Maybe the author did that so the heroine and hero would have the thrill factor in common. If that is the case, it did not make me connect with them. Just annoyed me. The heroine is the one that tells the hero she wants to go out with him and other stuff. In these types of stories, I like when the hero chases the heroine. Maybe he chases her later, but too late for me to care.
I just did not care for there heroine.
This is my opinion. You may like the book, but it did not work for me and I love romances that incorporate mobs.
The heroine is a thief which I hate. I would not mind if she was poor and had to steal food to survive, but she steals gum and pens and other stuff for the thrill. Maybe the author did that so the heroine and hero would have the thrill factor in common. If that is the case, it did not make me connect with them. Just annoyed me. The heroine is the one that tells the hero she wants to go out with him and other stuff. In these types of stories, I like when the hero chases the heroine. Maybe he chases her later, but too late for me to care.
I just did not care for there heroine.
January 25, 2015
Love it but after Monster in His Eyes my expectations much greater! So, 4 star for this delicious book.
Want to read
November 26, 2017💝 FREE on Amazon today (11/26/2017)! 💝
November 5, 2014
I love to read mafia romance and from the blurb i expect this book to blow me away but in end was another 3 star book for me .First 30& of this book for me is 5 star,then the next 70& are for 3 stars.The main reason i give this book 3 star are for the heroine Andrian, well she definitely go to my category of most annoying,selfish,jealous heroine.I hate when heroine know that hero is not good man and even he tell her he will heart her but she dosen;t listen and then when storm come she want out.What are you were thinking before hook up with him?? i tried so hard to understand her and her stupid behaviour but in the end i wanted to go in my Knidle and slap her.
Adriana is a student at Columbia University,she is struggling to pay off her fees and of top of that to feed her mum at the same time. After tragedy when she was 10 years old she lives constantly in fear.One day with her friends she find herself in illegal card games and meet with Vincent Cesare the Capo of Victorians crime family.She always had talent with cards so she volunteer to step in as their dealer.Vincent notice her talent and he offer a job-to deal card on every illegal game.Next 70% are full of Adrian stupid behaviour ,lots of in my opinion unnecessary drama.
The only good from this book is Vincent,i loved him he was such an alpha ,possessive,dominant hero.HE is in love with her and will do anything to protect her.He will give her anything she only have to ask.I just don't understand why her??She sure as hell doesn't deserve him ,in one time in book i really wished he leave her.
“What have I ever done to hurt you? I’ve only loved and respected you, paid for your school, protected you—”
Overall from the prologue it has potential but was not delivery good,it's not dark read,it have mild BDSM ans in the end was not my cup of tea.
May 28, 2015
Length: 336 pages
Style: Mob Romance
Story: GOOD
Intimacy level: Sex-citingly GOOD
Enjoyment: GOOD
Series: (Vittorio Crime Family book#1)
Price: $0.99 Amazon
The Good
I love mob romances, I don't think they're enough of them. I do admit I underestimate this book. I thought it would be simple and maybe boring, but I was surprised at how much I liked this story. Vince was sexy to me and his bada$$ attitude was an added bonus. The way he was with Adrianna was cute hard on the outside and a softy on the inside. Adrianna was naive a bit I thought, but she managed the relationship with Vince. Honestly their sexual chemistry was bit of a surprise, it was Ok for me but a few might find it too hard or disturbing, FYI.
The Bad
Not a fan of continuation. I love this story, but don't think I want to read a follow up continuation on Vince and Adrianna. I have no doubt that it will be good but I am getting fed up of the same characters being forever continue in 2,3 even 4 part books. I was not a fan of Adrianna's mother or her reliving of her father's death although it is a very pivotal part of the storyline. The story, isn't very dark but dark enough-ish for a mob romance.
Overall
A good read, would recommend if you are a fan of mob/mafia romance, just not a fan of a continuation.although, I have to admit, the story doesn't need on a cliff hanger so I'm satisfied.
RNJ
http://www.romancenoveljunkies.com
Pinterest
RNJ Pinterest Board
Style: Mob Romance
Story: GOOD
Intimacy level: Sex-citingly GOOD
Enjoyment: GOOD
Series: (Vittorio Crime Family book#1)
Price: $0.99 Amazon
The Good
I love mob romances, I don't think they're enough of them. I do admit I underestimate this book. I thought it would be simple and maybe boring, but I was surprised at how much I liked this story. Vince was sexy to me and his bada$$ attitude was an added bonus. The way he was with Adrianna was cute hard on the outside and a softy on the inside. Adrianna was naive a bit I thought, but she managed the relationship with Vince. Honestly their sexual chemistry was bit of a surprise, it was Ok for me but a few might find it too hard or disturbing, FYI.
The Bad
Not a fan of continuation. I love this story, but don't think I want to read a follow up continuation on Vince and Adrianna. I have no doubt that it will be good but I am getting fed up of the same characters being forever continue in 2,3 even 4 part books. I was not a fan of Adrianna's mother or her reliving of her father's death although it is a very pivotal part of the storyline. The story, isn't very dark but dark enough-ish for a mob romance.
Overall
A good read, would recommend if you are a fan of mob/mafia romance, just not a fan of a continuation.although, I have to admit, the story doesn't need on a cliff hanger so I'm satisfied.
RNJ
http://www.romancenoveljunkies.com
RNJ Pinterest Board
August 11, 2014
MILD SPOILER WARNING
Ugh! This book had so much more potential! It was a truly dark read. Especially considering the sex life between these two. It was OTT sexy, scary and fun.
I loved that this was written all in the h's POV. There are just some hero's that give too much away and a book like this needs to keep it's secrets until the timing is just right.
So what's got me 3-staring it?
1 - It's a HFN. A major issue starts coming up, right at the end of the book - the H's fidelity. The fact that the h knows and expects him not be faithful, because she will never be enough for him.After this uneasiness is set into our brain, it ends. Of course with his promises of always being faithful...but now...our brains our churning.
Which leads me to this point - you know this is going to be significant in book 2. It has to be to be let out so late in the game.
I hate HFN that end with an unsure ending. Sure it's not a "cliff" exactly, but it kind of is in this case.
Oh and I also don't like that the h is just so uncomfortable with the whole relationship pretty much the whole book. She is always feeling trapped and coerced. You feel that way with her through most of the book. I just don't see things working out well for this couple. I don't think I even wanna read book 2, I'm too nervous about what will go down between these two and I hate thinking of them not together!
Ugh! This book had so much more potential! It was a truly dark read. Especially considering the sex life between these two. It was OTT sexy, scary and fun.
I loved that this was written all in the h's POV. There are just some hero's that give too much away and a book like this needs to keep it's secrets until the timing is just right.
So what's got me 3-staring it?
1 - It's a HFN. A major issue starts coming up, right at the end of the book - the H's fidelity. The fact that the h knows and expects him not be faithful, because she will never be enough for him.After this uneasiness is set into our brain, it ends. Of course with his promises of always being faithful...but now...our brains our churning.
Which leads me to this point - you know this is going to be significant in book 2. It has to be to be let out so late in the game.
I hate HFN that end with an unsure ending. Sure it's not a "cliff" exactly, but it kind of is in this case.
Oh and I also don't like that the h is just so uncomfortable with the whole relationship pretty much the whole book. She is always feeling trapped and coerced. You feel that way with her through most of the book. I just don't see things working out well for this couple. I don't think I even wanna read book 2, I'm too nervous about what will go down between these two and I hate thinking of them not together!
February 7, 2016
That's pretty much how I felt every time Adriana opened her mouth or had a inner monologue. She pretty much ruined this entire book for me. I love mob books. Love the action and violence and all that so of course I loved Vince. I'd gladly welcome him and his belt into my home, but Adriana? No. Just no.
She blamed everyone else for her problems. I get what happened to her as a kid wasn't fair and shitty as hell, but it was her own choice to bankroll her mother. I don't care if this makes me a horrible person, but at some point you even have to show family the door. Ugh.
Her reaction to Vince also frustrated me. She knew what he was and said she didn't care, but when it came down to it she threw a fit. Made me want to not only slap across the room, but the whole country.
This book was just a bad read for me. I'm sorry.
January 7, 2015
This was an OK read. It's basically, an Ivy League student meets the Sopranos. (In fact one scene was in an episode of the show).
This book contains drama, action, betrayal and good sex. Will move on to book 2 because I'm curious to see how it plays out.
This book contains drama, action, betrayal and good sex. Will move on to book 2 because I'm curious to see how it plays out.
April 17, 2022
3.5 stars
I could tell that this was an early work of this author, the storytelling was a little rougher than I'm used to with her. But it wasn't bad.
I liked the characters but felt like I could have done with more background on all of them. There were time jumps without any real warning, it would just be weeks in the future. There was one part where she says they've been dating for 5 months, and I was like, it's only been a few weeks! That was hard to get used to, and I wish we could have had more details of what happened during those missing weeks and months.
Overall, a good story, and had I not read the blurb for the next book, I would have not known this was a duet and that book 1 ended on a HFN rather than an HEA. I'm not interested in the plot for book 2, so will just stop here and accept that ending as their HEA.
I could tell that this was an early work of this author, the storytelling was a little rougher than I'm used to with her. But it wasn't bad.
I liked the characters but felt like I could have done with more background on all of them. There were time jumps without any real warning, it would just be weeks in the future. There was one part where she says they've been dating for 5 months, and I was like, it's only been a few weeks! That was hard to get used to, and I wish we could have had more details of what happened during those missing weeks and months.
Overall, a good story, and had I not read the blurb for the next book, I would have not known this was a duet and that book 1 ended on a HFN rather than an HEA. I'm not interested in the plot for book 2, so will just stop here and accept that ending as their HEA.
October 1, 2015
Adriana´s always had a way with numbers, and playing cards, so when she gets the chance to earns some extra money dealing cards, she jumps at the chance.
She had no idea who´d be the one paying..
Capo Vincent can´t resist his new employee, and when she lets him be himself, the deal is done. Can they survive the war that is coming for the family, and will they be together in the end?
Mafia, smut and action in a great combo. I´m nervous to read the next book in the series, though. I need my HEA! =D
She had no idea who´d be the one paying..
Capo Vincent can´t resist his new employee, and when she lets him be himself, the deal is done. Can they survive the war that is coming for the family, and will they be together in the end?
Mafia, smut and action in a great combo. I´m nervous to read the next book in the series, though. I need my HEA! =D
August 1, 2014
I received this book for an honest review. This book was great!!!! I hope there's a second one. I loved Vincent. He was the perfect mix of monster and man, definitely my new book boyfriend.
Adriana was a great heroine. I loved that she was strong and didn't take crap from Vincent. It said this was a dark romance but I didn't really see it as such. Maybe others view things differently. This book is definitely worth buying you won't be sorry!!!
Adriana was a great heroine. I loved that she was strong and didn't take crap from Vincent. It said this was a dark romance but I didn't really see it as such. Maybe others view things differently. This book is definitely worth buying you won't be sorry!!!
August 1, 2014
Wow! Hot, Hot, Hot. Vincent is the perfect Alpha male, so fierce and protective. Adriana, a college student begins dealing cards for some illegal card games and starts falling for Vincent. I could not put it down, fast paced and so sexy. As the warning notes it is on the darker side with violence and kink. This is a sexy, entertaining read that you won’t want to see end. Highly Recommend!
April 11, 2016
Soooo good. The way they met was so original and fun. He brings her into the world of kinkery and it's great to read. A lot of action and just when you think all in well in la la land.... BAM, more action. I'm a little conflicted whether I want to read book 2 based off the blurb. But this book was a pleasant, sexy surprise.
August 7, 2014
I absolutely loved this book. The characters and the plot are all well thought out and kept me glued to the pages all night long. Having a mafia man as the main alpha love interest was new to me, but Ms Waltz makes it work wonderfully. I thank you for this ARC it was great.
August 8, 2015
The book had high potential, but just didn't do it for me!!!!
June 25, 2021
❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋💋
Dark, passionate and very steamy, Mafia romance, this book will scare you and delight you at the same time.
Theirs no softness to the story, it’s rough and real and disturbing, if your not a fan of realism back off now. Otherwise get reading.
💋💋💋
Dark, passionate and very steamy, Mafia romance, this book will scare you and delight you at the same time.
Theirs no softness to the story, it’s rough and real and disturbing, if your not a fan of realism back off now. Otherwise get reading.
August 4, 2014
This book stared out great, but along the way I became lose. It wasn't was dark as it was described. It feel flat. The storyline was great, and at times I was in shock, nut something was missing.
Adriana was something else and it wasn't good. She was strong. She wanted to take care of herself and not end up like her mom and depend on people for anything. She comes across Vince and her world is turned upside down. Things she thought she wanted she is starting to re think. She know that Vince is a bad man, but she cant shake the hold that she feels for him.
The story progressives along pretty good up until Adriana gets inside her head too much. She already knew what type of man Vince was but when things start going south she questions his trust. It was nerve racking. Vince had his moments were I was questioning his judgment, buy he proved himself to protect Adriana.
Then just when things get backs to normal the book just ends. I dont not like reading cliffhanger's unless I already have the next book. Im ready to find out what's in store for Adriana and Vince.
Adriana was something else and it wasn't good. She was strong. She wanted to take care of herself and not end up like her mom and depend on people for anything. She comes across Vince and her world is turned upside down. Things she thought she wanted she is starting to re think. She know that Vince is a bad man, but she cant shake the hold that she feels for him.
The story progressives along pretty good up until Adriana gets inside her head too much. She already knew what type of man Vince was but when things start going south she questions his trust. It was nerve racking. Vince had his moments were I was questioning his judgment, buy he proved himself to protect Adriana.
Then just when things get backs to normal the book just ends. I dont not like reading cliffhanger's unless I already have the next book. Im ready to find out what's in store for Adriana and Vince.
September 14, 2014
I received an ARC eBook in exchange for an honest review! This is a dark romance between a mob captain and a beautifully flawed struggling college student. They meet by accident but their chemistry is undeniably explosive! I won't deny that there are some parts that made me uncomfortable but the overall story was so fascinating, gritty and pure romance that I could easily overlook the uncomfortable violence and profanity that made me uncomfortable. I was swept away to a world I would never personally know (thank God) and immersed in a violent and often turbulent romance of intense passion! I loved Adranna and Vince's story and recommend it to romance readers who want to visit a different world from their own! This is the first novel I have read by Vanessa Waltz and it most certainly won't be my last!
October 23, 2015
I hate this trend in drawing books out into two, three, or more installments...when it's unnecessary. And especially when the author won't own it in the blurb.
What worked...
This book was well written. The characters were well developed.
What doesn't work...
I know he's a monster/mobster, however, I'm so tired of every blot containing elements of BDSM. The submission/domination concept is not my issue. I like it in my reads and I like it in my bed. But I do not like D/s relationships where the play seems degrading. The violence in their sex was apparently consensual, but it was ugly all the same. Not even D/s sexy. She feared him.
It didn't even feel like part of the plot. It just felt stuck in because, you know, it's popular for fucked up characters...and people who have never had any waves would never be into that.
Seriously. These stereotypes are terrible.
What worked...
This book was well written. The characters were well developed.
What doesn't work...
I know he's a monster/mobster, however, I'm so tired of every blot containing elements of BDSM. The submission/domination concept is not my issue. I like it in my reads and I like it in my bed. But I do not like D/s relationships where the play seems degrading. The violence in their sex was apparently consensual, but it was ugly all the same. Not even D/s sexy. She feared him.
It didn't even feel like part of the plot. It just felt stuck in because, you know, it's popular for fucked up characters...and people who have never had any waves would never be into that.
Seriously. These stereotypes are terrible.
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