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A Favor Owed
To everyone else, I look like just another struggling law student. Out here in the dry, sleepy California town of Dos Torres, I’ve got a job serving tables, a cheap (some would describe it as “decrepit”) rental, and every day is a lesson in survival.
No one would ever know that last year, I lived in a mansion in New York, everything I wore was high-end designer, and I had everything I could ever want. And the cost of it all? Knowing that my family—my own dad—committed unspeakable crimes for everything we had.
I’m a former “mafia princess” with a debt to pay to society. No one in “the family” knows where I am or what I'm doing. And they can’t ever find out.
Only now a complication has entered my already too-complicated life—and he’s tall, fit, and has a boy-next-door grin that invites trouble. He has no idea who he’s falling for…or that just being seen with me could get him killed.
But apparently I’m not the only one who’s good at lying—because he’s hiding one hell of a secret, too.
No one would ever know that last year, I lived in a mansion in New York, everything I wore was high-end designer, and I had everything I could ever want. And the cost of it all? Knowing that my family—my own dad—committed unspeakable crimes for everything we had.
I’m a former “mafia princess” with a debt to pay to society. No one in “the family” knows where I am or what I'm doing. And they can’t ever find out.
Only now a complication has entered my already too-complicated life—and he’s tall, fit, and has a boy-next-door grin that invites trouble. He has no idea who he’s falling for…or that just being seen with me could get him killed.
But apparently I’m not the only one who’s good at lying—because he’s hiding one hell of a secret, too.
- GenresRomance
302 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 12, 2025
20 people are currently reading
114 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 127 reviews
April 23, 2025
When you hear the term mafia romance, you automatically think of Alpha males, the protective guys who will do anything to you and for you. Sometimes we get the blood and gore, depending on the writer.
This story has some mafia romance flair, but it’s written in a different aspect and from a different view. Plus, the female lead doesn’t really know who he is, which brings another level to the story along with some suspense.
The characters are pretty well developed, even though they’re both working with lies about themselves.
She’s hard-working and intent on taking care of herself by doing everything she can to make a life of her own. He is smoldering and sexy and falls for her pretty darn quickly, with a lot of guilt attached.
The tension between them is strong, and you can feel why they’re a good fit. I love the slow ramping up of the relationship, knowing that something‘s gonna blow at any second.
Together, they are sexy and steamy, and Calcara throws in enough tension that we want to keep reading straight through. There are a few places where there are some inconsistencies in the story, but they didn’t really bother me too much.
A Favor Owed has good flow. The storyline is interesting and unique. For a first-time author, the story is enticing and memorable, delivering a good twist of a romance.
~~~~
* I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
* Full review - https://amidlifewife.com/a-favor-owed...
This story has some mafia romance flair, but it’s written in a different aspect and from a different view. Plus, the female lead doesn’t really know who he is, which brings another level to the story along with some suspense.
The characters are pretty well developed, even though they’re both working with lies about themselves.
She’s hard-working and intent on taking care of herself by doing everything she can to make a life of her own. He is smoldering and sexy and falls for her pretty darn quickly, with a lot of guilt attached.
The tension between them is strong, and you can feel why they’re a good fit. I love the slow ramping up of the relationship, knowing that something‘s gonna blow at any second.
Together, they are sexy and steamy, and Calcara throws in enough tension that we want to keep reading straight through. There are a few places where there are some inconsistencies in the story, but they didn’t really bother me too much.
A Favor Owed has good flow. The storyline is interesting and unique. For a first-time author, the story is enticing and memorable, delivering a good twist of a romance.
~~~~
* I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
* Full review - https://amidlifewife.com/a-favor-owed...
April 29, 2025
So, it's here, My review of A Favor Owed. In short: 2 stars. I did not enjoy this book. I did like the premise from the start. A struggling law student who escaped from her mafia family? A girl who falls in love with a guy hiding a large secret and his smile brings trouble? I was sat and READY for this book. It was not ready for me...
For being 269 pages this book felt longer than some of the 500+ paged books I've read. When the first line of the blurb is 'struggling law student' one thinks they're going to see more of a classroom than maybe 3 times in the whole book. I did appreciate the fact that our FMC, Angie, was a determined girl. She was not going to let anything get in her way. Brady on the other hand was persistent. His inner monologue being 'if a girl didn't put out in the first date or two I'm done with her....but Angie is different' made me want to gag. Their relationship somehow moved fast and slow at the same time? I literally have no other words to describe it. I also didn't feel the chemistry. Absolutely no spark. I think I had more chemistry with the pickle jar I couldn't open than Angie and Brady did. Trust me, I LOVE a good mafia romance and I appreciate what the book is trying to achieve with the plot, but it could of been done in a different, more efficient manner.
Thank you to Entangled Publishing for the e-arc.
Full review coming on Monday! This was not my favorite but not all bad things. It’s a 2 from me.
For being 269 pages this book felt longer than some of the 500+ paged books I've read. When the first line of the blurb is 'struggling law student' one thinks they're going to see more of a classroom than maybe 3 times in the whole book. I did appreciate the fact that our FMC, Angie, was a determined girl. She was not going to let anything get in her way. Brady on the other hand was persistent. His inner monologue being 'if a girl didn't put out in the first date or two I'm done with her....but Angie is different' made me want to gag. Their relationship somehow moved fast and slow at the same time? I literally have no other words to describe it. I also didn't feel the chemistry. Absolutely no spark. I think I had more chemistry with the pickle jar I couldn't open than Angie and Brady did. Trust me, I LOVE a good mafia romance and I appreciate what the book is trying to achieve with the plot, but it could of been done in a different, more efficient manner.
Thank you to Entangled Publishing for the e-arc.
Full review coming on Monday! This was not my favorite but not all bad things. It’s a 2 from me.
dnf-graveyard
May 19, 2025DNFed at 50%.
I wanted to love this so so much. I requested it as soon as I read the blurb because it was giving spicy steamy mafia romance and the plot itself was so intriguing to me. It just fell really flat of those expectations for me.
The characters were my biggest issue. I felt no chemistry at all. No spark, no tension, nothing. Their relationship felt but rushed and drug out at the same time? The dialogue was at times awkward and cringy. I did not like the mmc at all and his pov chapters were not for me.
I can absolutely see where the author was trying to go it just, for me, did not work.
Thank you to the publisher for the gifted arc
I wanted to love this so so much. I requested it as soon as I read the blurb because it was giving spicy steamy mafia romance and the plot itself was so intriguing to me. It just fell really flat of those expectations for me.
The characters were my biggest issue. I felt no chemistry at all. No spark, no tension, nothing. Their relationship felt but rushed and drug out at the same time? The dialogue was at times awkward and cringy. I did not like the mmc at all and his pov chapters were not for me.
I can absolutely see where the author was trying to go it just, for me, did not work.
Thank you to the publisher for the gifted arc
June 15, 2025
3.5/5
This was a cute, contemporary/cozy style romance.
The storyline includes the mafia, changing of identity, starting a new life, FBI, secrets and a medium-burn romance.
The story was easy to follow. The dialogue with the characters was realistic and the narrative was understandable.
The story flowed with ease at a medium pace.
I did find the ending a little sped up and closed the story out fast.
This was a cute, contemporary/cozy style romance.
The storyline includes the mafia, changing of identity, starting a new life, FBI, secrets and a medium-burn romance.
The story was easy to follow. The dialogue with the characters was realistic and the narrative was understandable.
The story flowed with ease at a medium pace.
I did find the ending a little sped up and closed the story out fast.
April 16, 2025
This is the most drama filled contemporary romance I have ever read, and that is really saying something.
We have a mafia princess who basically decides she’s over it and snitches on her own family. She is trying to live a new life when she meets a guy who just might ruin it all.
This book is super easy to read and follow. It’s very fast paced and a quick read. It has the POV of both the female and male main characters, so if you love dual POV from both love interests, check this one out.
Thank you very much to Entangled Publishing, Brittany Zimmerman, and NetGalley for an ARC of this book. All opinions are my own and in no way are influenced by the manner in which I received it.
We have a mafia princess who basically decides she’s over it and snitches on her own family. She is trying to live a new life when she meets a guy who just might ruin it all.
This book is super easy to read and follow. It’s very fast paced and a quick read. It has the POV of both the female and male main characters, so if you love dual POV from both love interests, check this one out.
Thank you very much to Entangled Publishing, Brittany Zimmerman, and NetGalley for an ARC of this book. All opinions are my own and in no way are influenced by the manner in which I received it.
May 22, 2025
You will like this one if you love the tropes
🖤Mafia princess in hiding
🖤Slow burn romance
🖤Dual secrets
🖤Found family
🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤
My Review
This was different than any other mafia romance I’ve read and I enjoyed it! Instead of focusing on the mafia, it focused on the aftermath of leaving the criminal legacy behind she was once a mafia princess who is finding the moral high ground by turning against the family and trying to pursue and live a normal life. I was really drawn into her story and I think for a debut novel this was done really well.
🖤Mafia princess in hiding
🖤Slow burn romance
🖤Dual secrets
🖤Found family
🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤
My Review
This was different than any other mafia romance I’ve read and I enjoyed it! Instead of focusing on the mafia, it focused on the aftermath of leaving the criminal legacy behind she was once a mafia princess who is finding the moral high ground by turning against the family and trying to pursue and live a normal life. I was really drawn into her story and I think for a debut novel this was done really well.
November 1, 2025
Really liked this one! Great banter, engaging story, and a perfectly sweet ending.
A big thanks to Entangled Publishing for providing me an ARC!
A big thanks to Entangled Publishing for providing me an ARC!
May 13, 2025
Angela Pines appeared to be the average college student who was struggling to make ends meet while going to law school part time and work full time. Between her waitressing job and her cheap and falling apart rental, each day was a lesson in survival. This was a big change to how Angela’s life was a year ago: a big mansion, designer clothes and anything she wanted. The problem? Her dad committed heinous crimes so that they could enjoy the nicer things in life. After running away from her mafia princess life, Angela feels like she owes society. Essentially a debt to the society that she is now a part of. The only relief that Angela now finds comfort in is Brady McDaniels. Brady is tall, fit and is the boy-next-door. The last thing Angela expects is to fall for the man. That would complicate things. However, it appears that they both have fallen more for each than they were expecting. The issue? Brady is hiding even bigger a secret than Angela is. Will their secrets pull them apart or will they learn to trust each other despite the lies they’ve been holding in?
This was such a good but fun read! I’ve not read this author before and it was such a treat! Some tropes include strangers to lovers, he falls first, ex-mafia princess, some suspense and more. Some TWs would be mentions of violence, explicit s*xual content, and more. Please look into possible triggers either on the Author’s page or website. Take care of yourself.
This was such a good but fun read! I’ve not read this author before and it was such a treat! Some tropes include strangers to lovers, he falls first, ex-mafia princess, some suspense and more. Some TWs would be mentions of violence, explicit s*xual content, and more. Please look into possible triggers either on the Author’s page or website. Take care of yourself.
May 5, 2025
3.5 stars, rounded up.
This one wasn't my favorite. There is a lot of drama. Mafia princess meets Firefighter.
It is dual POV so getting to see both sides and situations, is nice. But I really don't have much else to say on this one.
This one wasn't my favorite. There is a lot of drama. Mafia princess meets Firefighter.
It is dual POV so getting to see both sides and situations, is nice. But I really don't have much else to say on this one.
April 24, 2025
A Favor Owed, a heart won.
Woah, the way I sped through this book! It is addicting like sugar, I craved more and more and couldn’t help but devour chapter after chapter. This is a fabulously engaging read featuring two leads that will tug at your heartstrings.
Angela Pines flees her home state of New York after tipping off authorities over the nefarious activities of her mob boss father. She arrives in California under an alias and enrolls in law school in the hopes of becoming a lawyer who can give back to the public, after her family has taken so much. She keeps her heart firmly guarded until fellow student Brady slowly but surely tears them down and carves a place in her heart for him. But much like Angela, Brady harbors a secret, one heavily intertwined with her own…
I dearly adored Angela. Her heart is pure gold. She may be a former mafia princess, but she is not meant for that world, which is exactly why she gets out. She is trying to build a life for herself, one that gives back to the community. Not to ease any guilt associated with her family, but to take responsibility where they have not. Seeing her come into her true self was a beautiful sight to witness. She is the one who captured my heart most, with her courage, her defiance, and her forgiving heart.
That’s not to say I don’t love Brady! For I most certainly do, even when I came to dislike him at times. Even when I knew his lies would cause a tremendous amount of hurt to Angela. I still loved Brady because I got to know him. I got to see the inner workings of his heart and mind, and how his misjudgement of Angela leads to realizations and an urgency to set things right. Ultimately, Brady is between a rock and a hard place, with loved ones on either side, so I do find him sympathetic even during those moments where disappointment arises. Can I also mention how much I love his dialogue?! He’s a total playboy and the author works it into an authentic dialogue perfectly, where it toes the line between wanting to roll your eyes at his antics while wearing a smitten grin. I couldn’t help but love him!
Angela and Brady’s romance is intense, heart-aching, swoony, and keeps you at the edge of your seat. You are waiting for the other shoe to drop and trying to stop it because what they form is so comforting and real, as ironic as that may sound given their circumstances, but there is an sincerity in their love that simply cannot be denied. But can the lies be forgiven? You’ll have to read to find out! My heart cried along the way, but ultimately it settled with great satisfaction, so I hope the same for yours!
There is definitely some suspension of disbelief required with this exhilarating, multi-layered storyline. At times I did waver on this, but I always reeled myself right back, and that is 100% due to the book’s showcase romance. It was so incredibly well done!
I did not expect to come to love this book as much as I did, and now it’s one I will be running to pick up the second it releases. Count me first in line at the bookstore!
Thank you to Entangled Publishing and NetGalley for this advanced complimentary copy. I leave this honest review voluntarily.
Woah, the way I sped through this book! It is addicting like sugar, I craved more and more and couldn’t help but devour chapter after chapter. This is a fabulously engaging read featuring two leads that will tug at your heartstrings.
Angela Pines flees her home state of New York after tipping off authorities over the nefarious activities of her mob boss father. She arrives in California under an alias and enrolls in law school in the hopes of becoming a lawyer who can give back to the public, after her family has taken so much. She keeps her heart firmly guarded until fellow student Brady slowly but surely tears them down and carves a place in her heart for him. But much like Angela, Brady harbors a secret, one heavily intertwined with her own…
I dearly adored Angela. Her heart is pure gold. She may be a former mafia princess, but she is not meant for that world, which is exactly why she gets out. She is trying to build a life for herself, one that gives back to the community. Not to ease any guilt associated with her family, but to take responsibility where they have not. Seeing her come into her true self was a beautiful sight to witness. She is the one who captured my heart most, with her courage, her defiance, and her forgiving heart.
That’s not to say I don’t love Brady! For I most certainly do, even when I came to dislike him at times. Even when I knew his lies would cause a tremendous amount of hurt to Angela. I still loved Brady because I got to know him. I got to see the inner workings of his heart and mind, and how his misjudgement of Angela leads to realizations and an urgency to set things right. Ultimately, Brady is between a rock and a hard place, with loved ones on either side, so I do find him sympathetic even during those moments where disappointment arises. Can I also mention how much I love his dialogue?! He’s a total playboy and the author works it into an authentic dialogue perfectly, where it toes the line between wanting to roll your eyes at his antics while wearing a smitten grin. I couldn’t help but love him!
Angela and Brady’s romance is intense, heart-aching, swoony, and keeps you at the edge of your seat. You are waiting for the other shoe to drop and trying to stop it because what they form is so comforting and real, as ironic as that may sound given their circumstances, but there is an sincerity in their love that simply cannot be denied. But can the lies be forgiven? You’ll have to read to find out! My heart cried along the way, but ultimately it settled with great satisfaction, so I hope the same for yours!
There is definitely some suspension of disbelief required with this exhilarating, multi-layered storyline. At times I did waver on this, but I always reeled myself right back, and that is 100% due to the book’s showcase romance. It was so incredibly well done!
I did not expect to come to love this book as much as I did, and now it’s one I will be running to pick up the second it releases. Count me first in line at the bookstore!
Thank you to Entangled Publishing and NetGalley for this advanced complimentary copy. I leave this honest review voluntarily.
May 1, 2025
Rounding up to 3 stars
A Favor Owed is a quick and easy read that follows the story of Angela and Brady.
When we first meet up with Angela, we see a girl who's on the run. Law student by day, waitress by night, Angela just wants a fresh start. But, when Brady enters the picture, her world gets turned upside down...Enter Brady. Brady would do anything to save his family, even if it means getting close to a Mafia daughter. But as Brady gets closer to Angela, he discovers there's more to her than meets the eye.
Overall, I thought this was an okay read. I thought the plot was interesting and was intrigued by the characters. That being said, I had a love/hate relationship with Brady and Angela. Yes, they had some chemistry and spicy moments, but I felt like something was missing. Like even though they were taking it slow, there needed to be more character development and more believable chemistry.
Some other issues I had were repetitiveness and plotholes. The repetitiveness was frustrating and had me thinking, enough already. And the plotholes...there were at least two instances that didn't make any sense, leaving me confused and scratching my head.
In the end, I feel like this is a book that will work for some, but not for others. And while this book had its share of positives such as spice, dual pov, and drama; it was lacking in others.
Even though this book wasn't a 100% hit for me, I do think this author has potential and would be open to reading another book of hers in the future.
*Thank you so much to Entangled Pubishing for the opportunity to read and review this title*
A Favor Owed is a quick and easy read that follows the story of Angela and Brady.
When we first meet up with Angela, we see a girl who's on the run. Law student by day, waitress by night, Angela just wants a fresh start. But, when Brady enters the picture, her world gets turned upside down...Enter Brady. Brady would do anything to save his family, even if it means getting close to a Mafia daughter. But as Brady gets closer to Angela, he discovers there's more to her than meets the eye.
Overall, I thought this was an okay read. I thought the plot was interesting and was intrigued by the characters. That being said, I had a love/hate relationship with Brady and Angela. Yes, they had some chemistry and spicy moments, but I felt like something was missing. Like even though they were taking it slow, there needed to be more character development and more believable chemistry.
Some other issues I had were repetitiveness and plotholes. The repetitiveness was frustrating and had me thinking, enough already. And the plotholes...there were at least two instances that didn't make any sense, leaving me confused and scratching my head.
In the end, I feel like this is a book that will work for some, but not for others. And while this book had its share of positives such as spice, dual pov, and drama; it was lacking in others.
Even though this book wasn't a 100% hit for me, I do think this author has potential and would be open to reading another book of hers in the future.
*Thank you so much to Entangled Pubishing for the opportunity to read and review this title*
May 5, 2025
Thank you to Entangled Publishing, NetGalley, and Marisa Calcara for entrusting me with an early copy!
Dual POV, secret past, mafia princess on the run, super fun Dirty Dancing references and jokes, all the banter, betrayal, mental health rep, cinnamon roll MMC
Angela is hiding in California from her mafia dad who she betrayed. She is going without the luxury she is accustomed to while going to law school with intentions of helping people like her family hurts. Enter talkative, kind, and very attractive Brady who she knows she should stay away from. But Brady is worming his way under her skin. She realizes too late he also has secrets. Brady is on a mission to help his dad and needs to get close to the spoiled mafia princess Angela. But the closer he gets to her, the more he realizes there is so much more to the guarded woman who now holds his heart. Will they survive each other's secrets?
My goodness. I could NOT put this book down! It made me laugh, it made me cry multiple times, and I was grinning like a fool at the end. It's also a love letter to the 9/11 firefighters and first responders 🥹. Though both Angela and Brady were keeping secrets, it was sort of a nice twist that they knew there were secrets but they couldn't let each other go. There was also a lot of action in the book and I never was bored with everything going on and the tension with the secrets. The was such a lovely standalone and now I want to go watch Dirty Dancing!
Dual POV, secret past, mafia princess on the run, super fun Dirty Dancing references and jokes, all the banter, betrayal, mental health rep, cinnamon roll MMC
Angela is hiding in California from her mafia dad who she betrayed. She is going without the luxury she is accustomed to while going to law school with intentions of helping people like her family hurts. Enter talkative, kind, and very attractive Brady who she knows she should stay away from. But Brady is worming his way under her skin. She realizes too late he also has secrets. Brady is on a mission to help his dad and needs to get close to the spoiled mafia princess Angela. But the closer he gets to her, the more he realizes there is so much more to the guarded woman who now holds his heart. Will they survive each other's secrets?
My goodness. I could NOT put this book down! It made me laugh, it made me cry multiple times, and I was grinning like a fool at the end. It's also a love letter to the 9/11 firefighters and first responders 🥹. Though both Angela and Brady were keeping secrets, it was sort of a nice twist that they knew there were secrets but they couldn't let each other go. There was also a lot of action in the book and I never was bored with everything going on and the tension with the secrets. The was such a lovely standalone and now I want to go watch Dirty Dancing!
May 3, 2025
2.5
I was not too sure what to expect from A Favor Owed, but unfortunately it did fall a bit flat to me. I thought the premise was interesting and the plot was the best part, however for being in the situation Angela found herself to be in, she was not hiding her past very well. I felt like it had a lot of potential, but thought that the ending wrapped up a bit too nicely for the high stakes situation.
As for the romance, I really struggled to like Brady’s character. I enjoyed Angela’s and found myself rooting for her success, but Brady definitely rubbed me the wrong way with how he spoke about her owing him in the first few chapters. I thought they were cute together and had good chemistry, but again for as high of stakes as the situation presented itself to be, I felt like everything was rushed.
Overall, I think this story has potential. The pacing of the plot as well as the romance kind of threw me off and reduced some of the meaning behind the story. I really enjoyed Angela. She was really the one piece of the book I enjoyed. I appreciate her desire to do better and I liked her intelligence. Again I think I would have enjoyed this more if the pacing was better and the ending was not as clean. It just took away from her story.
Thank you Entangled and Netgalley for an earc. All opinions are my own.
I was not too sure what to expect from A Favor Owed, but unfortunately it did fall a bit flat to me. I thought the premise was interesting and the plot was the best part, however for being in the situation Angela found herself to be in, she was not hiding her past very well. I felt like it had a lot of potential, but thought that the ending wrapped up a bit too nicely for the high stakes situation.
As for the romance, I really struggled to like Brady’s character. I enjoyed Angela’s and found myself rooting for her success, but Brady definitely rubbed me the wrong way with how he spoke about her owing him in the first few chapters. I thought they were cute together and had good chemistry, but again for as high of stakes as the situation presented itself to be, I felt like everything was rushed.
Overall, I think this story has potential. The pacing of the plot as well as the romance kind of threw me off and reduced some of the meaning behind the story. I really enjoyed Angela. She was really the one piece of the book I enjoyed. I appreciate her desire to do better and I liked her intelligence. Again I think I would have enjoyed this more if the pacing was better and the ending was not as clean. It just took away from her story.
Thank you Entangled and Netgalley for an earc. All opinions are my own.
June 2, 2025
A Favor Owed by Marisa Calcara is an intriguing & distinctive mafia romance that focuses on a young woman fleeing from her father’s dangerous world & trying to start over only to find a new stranger in her law school that sparks a flame. However, between her history & his, things might not what you expect, I recommend reading to find out more!
A Favor Owed is great for those looking to read…
🩷 Mafia Romance
🩷 Law School Romance
🩷 Secret Past
🩷 Close Proximity
I appreciated how unique this story was. I want to try to keep this vague because it’s so fascinating not knowing quite where this was going. This does deal with some difficult topics, so I do recommend checking content warnings.
If you are looking for an emotionally deep, interesting & spicy mafia-ish romance between two law school students, I recommend checking out A Favor Owed!
Massive thanks to NetGalley & Entangled Amara for the gifted copy, which I voluntarily read & reviewed.
A Favor Owed is great for those looking to read…
🩷 Mafia Romance
🩷 Law School Romance
🩷 Secret Past
🩷 Close Proximity
I appreciated how unique this story was. I want to try to keep this vague because it’s so fascinating not knowing quite where this was going. This does deal with some difficult topics, so I do recommend checking content warnings.
If you are looking for an emotionally deep, interesting & spicy mafia-ish romance between two law school students, I recommend checking out A Favor Owed!
Massive thanks to NetGalley & Entangled Amara for the gifted copy, which I voluntarily read & reviewed.
April 27, 2025
A solid 4 star read!
For a debut novel, this one was great! I'm not typically a Mafia romance girl, but I don't think this was your typical Mafia romance since it focuses on the Boss's daughter, Angela, who was outside of the The Business.
What can I say about Angela and Brady. Angela, trying to start over and escape her past while doing some good in the world. Brady trying to save his dad, but falling for the enemies daughter.
I loved the slow burn and I loved the banter between these 2. It was the perfect amount of each which made this book a quick and easy read.
Thank You Entangled Publishing, NetGalley and Marisa Calcara for this eArc in return for my honest review.
For a debut novel, this one was great! I'm not typically a Mafia romance girl, but I don't think this was your typical Mafia romance since it focuses on the Boss's daughter, Angela, who was outside of the The Business.
What can I say about Angela and Brady. Angela, trying to start over and escape her past while doing some good in the world. Brady trying to save his dad, but falling for the enemies daughter.
I loved the slow burn and I loved the banter between these 2. It was the perfect amount of each which made this book a quick and easy read.
Thank You Entangled Publishing, NetGalley and Marisa Calcara for this eArc in return for my honest review.
May 15, 2025
It was “meh.” A self-entitled man falls in love with a great woman trying to right other people's wrongs. Their banter made the story better.
Thank you to Entangled for the ARC.
Thank you to Entangled for the ARC.
July 24, 2025
Not a what I had wanted from this book, you mention Mafia I want Mafia , not a college romance and the overused term of “princess” ….
June 8, 2025
3.5⭐️, rounded up.
A Favor Owed isn’t your typical mafia romance, it offers a new take on the genre. The story follows Angela Pines and Brady McDaniels, two New Yorkers who find themselves in California for law school, each with very different motivations. It’s fast-paced, dual POV format lets you experience Angela and Brady’s growing connection while their secrets slowly unravel and impact one another. Overall, I enjoyed A Favor Owed and would recommend it to readers looking for a quick read and a fresh take on a genre they think they’ve seen it all in.
Tropes:
* Mafia romance
* Forced proximity
* Dual POV
* Law school setting
* Secrets and hidden past
* Slow burn with tension
Thank you Entangled and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this eARC and provide my honest feedback.
A Favor Owed isn’t your typical mafia romance, it offers a new take on the genre. The story follows Angela Pines and Brady McDaniels, two New Yorkers who find themselves in California for law school, each with very different motivations. It’s fast-paced, dual POV format lets you experience Angela and Brady’s growing connection while their secrets slowly unravel and impact one another. Overall, I enjoyed A Favor Owed and would recommend it to readers looking for a quick read and a fresh take on a genre they think they’ve seen it all in.
Tropes:
* Mafia romance
* Forced proximity
* Dual POV
* Law school setting
* Secrets and hidden past
* Slow burn with tension
Thank you Entangled and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this eARC and provide my honest feedback.
May 13, 2025
Favor Owed by Marisa Calcara isn’t your typical mafia romance, and that’s exactly what makes it stand out. If you come into this book expecting violence, organized crime drama, or the usual brand of dark, seductive danger, you might be surprised—or even a little disoriented. Because this story doesn’t center on the mafia world; it centers on what happens when you walk away from it.
Angela Pines is a character whose whole existence hinges on reinvention. Formerly known as Angelina Pini, daughter of a New York crime boss, she once lived in a Manhattan penthouse, draped in designer clothes and surrounded by power she didn’t ask for. But Angela has seen too much, and one day, something in her snaps. She reports her father’s crimes—most notably, his involvement in a human trafficking operation—and disappears. That decision defines every moment of the life she builds afterward.
Now, in a dusty California town no one’s ever heard of, Angela is trying to pass as just another broke law student. She waits tables. She studies hard. She keeps her head down. She lives in a decaying rental house and goes by a new name—though admittedly, a laughably thin alias that translates her old Italian last name into English (Angela Pines from Angelina Pini). It’s one of the few moments in the book where I had to pause and suspend a lot of disbelief. If you’re on the run from the mafia and possibly the FBI, you might want to pick a name that doesn’t sound like your birth certificate went through Google Translate.
Still, Angela is doing her best with what she has, which, emotionally speaking, isn’t much. She’s cut off from her family. She’s completely alone. Her guilt over what her father did—and what she was willing to ignore for so long—is something she carries like a physical burden. And she’s determined to do something good with her second chance. She wants to become a lawyer, not to chase prestige or power, but to help people who don’t usually get help, especially victims of the kind of exploitation her father profited from. That thread alone gives the book more heart than many romance novels ever attempt.
Enter Brady McDaniels: smooth, charismatic, a little too nosy for his own good. At first glance, he seems like a classic love interest—the charming, easygoing guy with a tragic backstory and a smile that gets him out of trouble. But there’s more to him, and not just the predictable “he’s not who he says he is” twist. Brady’s father is sitting in jail, caught up in the same legal storm that brought down Angela’s family. And now Brady has enrolled in the same law school under the guise of a student, hoping to get close to Angela and find a way to clear his father’s name.
What makes Brady interesting isn’t just his secret—it’s his gradual unraveling. He starts off thinking Angela is cold, selfish, maybe even a little monstrous. He thinks she owes him. Owes his father. And for the first third of the book, he treats her with a sense of superiority and manipulation that’s genuinely uncomfortable. But as he spends more time around her, the lines between revenge and romance begin to blur. He sees her grief. Her fear. Her decency. And something inside him starts to shift. His mission becomes less about clearing his father’s name and more about protecting the woman he’s been lying to.
The emotional tension between Angela and Brady is handled well. There’s banter, friction, mutual curiosity, and the ever-present threat of exposure. Their chemistry isn’t instant. It builds, layer by layer, through shared vulnerability, frustration, and unexpected empathy. They’re both lying. They’re both hurting. And neither of them quite knows what to do with the bond forming between them. What starts as a game of secrets becomes a slow-burn relationship grounded in real emotional stakes.
One of the most impressive things Calcara pulls off is letting these characters grow. Angela isn’t just a “strong female lead”—she’s resilient in a way that feels rooted in trauma and grief. She’s trying to figure out who she is when everything that used to define her—money, privilege, family—is either gone or poisoned. She isn’t chasing a romantic partner. She’s chasing peace. She wants to feel safe, and she wants to believe that she’s more than the sins of her father. Brady, on the other hand, begins the book certain of his own moral compass and ends up questioning everything. His understanding of right and wrong is challenged, not just by Angela, but by the reality that people—especially parents—aren’t as clean-cut as we want them to be.
There are a few weaknesses in the book, and they mostly come down to pacing and believability. For a story that hinges on danger—Angela turning on a powerful mafia boss and then living in hiding—there’s surprisingly little tension around her being found. No shadowy figures lurking in alleys. No phone calls in the night. Her father’s presence is more theoretical than felt, which undermines the sense of urgency. And while I appreciated that this wasn’t a violence-heavy book, it also felt like some of the stakes were left on the table. When Brady eventually confronts Angela’s father, the moment passes with a surprising amount of calm, considering the gravity of what’s at stake. I expected more of a reckoning—some kind of high-stakes showdown. Instead, the story wraps up more like a compromise.
And yet, for all that, the emotional weight of the story holds. Angela and Brady both wrestle with generational guilt, moral ambiguity, and the idea that love—real love—can’t survive without truth. They get it wrong. A lot. They hurt each other. But they also reach for healing, and their romance feels earned because of it. One of the most poignant moments comes late in the book, when Angela admits that she knows she’s going to forgive Brady, even though he’s betrayed her trust. Not because he deserves it in that moment, but because she can feel that he’s becoming someone who might. It’s not neat. It’s not fairytale. But it’s real.
Calcara’s writing shines when she lets her characters be messy. There’s a softness to the way she explores trust and fear, especially in scenes involving family—both biological and chosen. Brady’s relationship with his mom is especially lovely, and the inclusion of the 9/11 subplot, while unexpected, is handled with care and gives the book added depth. It reminded me that grief, especially grief connected to national tragedy, is not always loud or cinematic. Sometimes it’s just a scar you carry into every relationship you try to build.
By the time the book ends, there’s closure, but also room to imagine what comes next. The happily-ever-after isn’t perfect, and the road ahead isn’t easy—but it feels honest. And in a story about lies, that’s no small thing.
A Favor Owed isn’t flashy. It’s not packed with mafia tropes or romanticized danger. What it offers instead is quieter, more vulnerable, and—at times—more powerful: a story about two people trying to figure out if they can love each other when neither one of them has ever truly been safe. It’s about survival, reinvention, and the long, hard road toward healing. And for that, it’s worth reading.
Angela Pines is a character whose whole existence hinges on reinvention. Formerly known as Angelina Pini, daughter of a New York crime boss, she once lived in a Manhattan penthouse, draped in designer clothes and surrounded by power she didn’t ask for. But Angela has seen too much, and one day, something in her snaps. She reports her father’s crimes—most notably, his involvement in a human trafficking operation—and disappears. That decision defines every moment of the life she builds afterward.
Now, in a dusty California town no one’s ever heard of, Angela is trying to pass as just another broke law student. She waits tables. She studies hard. She keeps her head down. She lives in a decaying rental house and goes by a new name—though admittedly, a laughably thin alias that translates her old Italian last name into English (Angela Pines from Angelina Pini). It’s one of the few moments in the book where I had to pause and suspend a lot of disbelief. If you’re on the run from the mafia and possibly the FBI, you might want to pick a name that doesn’t sound like your birth certificate went through Google Translate.
Still, Angela is doing her best with what she has, which, emotionally speaking, isn’t much. She’s cut off from her family. She’s completely alone. Her guilt over what her father did—and what she was willing to ignore for so long—is something she carries like a physical burden. And she’s determined to do something good with her second chance. She wants to become a lawyer, not to chase prestige or power, but to help people who don’t usually get help, especially victims of the kind of exploitation her father profited from. That thread alone gives the book more heart than many romance novels ever attempt.
Enter Brady McDaniels: smooth, charismatic, a little too nosy for his own good. At first glance, he seems like a classic love interest—the charming, easygoing guy with a tragic backstory and a smile that gets him out of trouble. But there’s more to him, and not just the predictable “he’s not who he says he is” twist. Brady’s father is sitting in jail, caught up in the same legal storm that brought down Angela’s family. And now Brady has enrolled in the same law school under the guise of a student, hoping to get close to Angela and find a way to clear his father’s name.
What makes Brady interesting isn’t just his secret—it’s his gradual unraveling. He starts off thinking Angela is cold, selfish, maybe even a little monstrous. He thinks she owes him. Owes his father. And for the first third of the book, he treats her with a sense of superiority and manipulation that’s genuinely uncomfortable. But as he spends more time around her, the lines between revenge and romance begin to blur. He sees her grief. Her fear. Her decency. And something inside him starts to shift. His mission becomes less about clearing his father’s name and more about protecting the woman he’s been lying to.
The emotional tension between Angela and Brady is handled well. There’s banter, friction, mutual curiosity, and the ever-present threat of exposure. Their chemistry isn’t instant. It builds, layer by layer, through shared vulnerability, frustration, and unexpected empathy. They’re both lying. They’re both hurting. And neither of them quite knows what to do with the bond forming between them. What starts as a game of secrets becomes a slow-burn relationship grounded in real emotional stakes.
One of the most impressive things Calcara pulls off is letting these characters grow. Angela isn’t just a “strong female lead”—she’s resilient in a way that feels rooted in trauma and grief. She’s trying to figure out who she is when everything that used to define her—money, privilege, family—is either gone or poisoned. She isn’t chasing a romantic partner. She’s chasing peace. She wants to feel safe, and she wants to believe that she’s more than the sins of her father. Brady, on the other hand, begins the book certain of his own moral compass and ends up questioning everything. His understanding of right and wrong is challenged, not just by Angela, but by the reality that people—especially parents—aren’t as clean-cut as we want them to be.
There are a few weaknesses in the book, and they mostly come down to pacing and believability. For a story that hinges on danger—Angela turning on a powerful mafia boss and then living in hiding—there’s surprisingly little tension around her being found. No shadowy figures lurking in alleys. No phone calls in the night. Her father’s presence is more theoretical than felt, which undermines the sense of urgency. And while I appreciated that this wasn’t a violence-heavy book, it also felt like some of the stakes were left on the table. When Brady eventually confronts Angela’s father, the moment passes with a surprising amount of calm, considering the gravity of what’s at stake. I expected more of a reckoning—some kind of high-stakes showdown. Instead, the story wraps up more like a compromise.
And yet, for all that, the emotional weight of the story holds. Angela and Brady both wrestle with generational guilt, moral ambiguity, and the idea that love—real love—can’t survive without truth. They get it wrong. A lot. They hurt each other. But they also reach for healing, and their romance feels earned because of it. One of the most poignant moments comes late in the book, when Angela admits that she knows she’s going to forgive Brady, even though he’s betrayed her trust. Not because he deserves it in that moment, but because she can feel that he’s becoming someone who might. It’s not neat. It’s not fairytale. But it’s real.
Calcara’s writing shines when she lets her characters be messy. There’s a softness to the way she explores trust and fear, especially in scenes involving family—both biological and chosen. Brady’s relationship with his mom is especially lovely, and the inclusion of the 9/11 subplot, while unexpected, is handled with care and gives the book added depth. It reminded me that grief, especially grief connected to national tragedy, is not always loud or cinematic. Sometimes it’s just a scar you carry into every relationship you try to build.
By the time the book ends, there’s closure, but also room to imagine what comes next. The happily-ever-after isn’t perfect, and the road ahead isn’t easy—but it feels honest. And in a story about lies, that’s no small thing.
A Favor Owed isn’t flashy. It’s not packed with mafia tropes or romanticized danger. What it offers instead is quieter, more vulnerable, and—at times—more powerful: a story about two people trying to figure out if they can love each other when neither one of them has ever truly been safe. It’s about survival, reinvention, and the long, hard road toward healing. And for that, it’s worth reading.
April 17, 2025
4.5 stars
This is the debut novel by Marisa Calcara and what a stunning job it was. I'm not usually into mafia type books but I’m glad I didn't let that deter me from this book. I honestly wouldn't file this under mafia though and I'll explain why in my review.
Angela is in law school in California but her knowledge of law and drive to finish law school show she should probably be at a more reputable law school. The same could be said for Brady. In fact, he has a spot at Columbia. So why are either of them attending some low ranking law school? This is where it gets good!
Very early on, it's disclosed that Angela is running from her family back in New York. She's an only child and her father the don of the mafia, making her a "mafia princess." When she learns things about the business and doesn't want to be associated with that garbage, she takes drastic measures. One of those decisions she makes results in her needing to move far, far away from home.
Brady has his own secrets and reasons for no longer living in New York. Let's just say someone close to him is a bit of a vigilante and it's landed him in some very hot water. Brady is in California to help keep this person out of trouble.
I really did enjoy this book. I loved that it was more about Angela and her drive for why she wants to be an attorney, which is so admirable in my eyes. She's such a strong fighter and really shows that throughout this entire book. Never once did I think "Ugh, I hate when the FMC cowers like that" while reading. She held her ground. Even when she was letting her guard down.
As for Brady… he's a NY firefighter who has ties to those working 9/11. Need I say more to entice you to read this? If so, how about I was not prepared for chapter 33 when Brady recounts September 11th from his very young point of view. Had I been ready, I would've had tissues on hand and not been sitting in my living room with my family all around to witness the tears! But alas, they did and I encourage you to also feel the emotions while reading.
This book isn't about the mafia and how it works. Nor is about those in the mafia. It's about how ties to the mafia impacts others. Whether they are related to those in the mafia or the person works for/with the mafia.
Thank you so much to Entangled Publishing and Marisa for allowing me the opportunity to read the ARC of this book. It truly was an amazing read and I’m excited for others to be able to experience it. I highly recommend this book.
This is the debut novel by Marisa Calcara and what a stunning job it was. I'm not usually into mafia type books but I’m glad I didn't let that deter me from this book. I honestly wouldn't file this under mafia though and I'll explain why in my review.
Angela is in law school in California but her knowledge of law and drive to finish law school show she should probably be at a more reputable law school. The same could be said for Brady. In fact, he has a spot at Columbia. So why are either of them attending some low ranking law school? This is where it gets good!
Very early on, it's disclosed that Angela is running from her family back in New York. She's an only child and her father the don of the mafia, making her a "mafia princess." When she learns things about the business and doesn't want to be associated with that garbage, she takes drastic measures. One of those decisions she makes results in her needing to move far, far away from home.
Brady has his own secrets and reasons for no longer living in New York. Let's just say someone close to him is a bit of a vigilante and it's landed him in some very hot water. Brady is in California to help keep this person out of trouble.
I really did enjoy this book. I loved that it was more about Angela and her drive for why she wants to be an attorney, which is so admirable in my eyes. She's such a strong fighter and really shows that throughout this entire book. Never once did I think "Ugh, I hate when the FMC cowers like that" while reading. She held her ground. Even when she was letting her guard down.
As for Brady… he's a NY firefighter who has ties to those working 9/11. Need I say more to entice you to read this? If so, how about I was not prepared for chapter 33 when Brady recounts September 11th from his very young point of view. Had I been ready, I would've had tissues on hand and not been sitting in my living room with my family all around to witness the tears! But alas, they did and I encourage you to also feel the emotions while reading.
This book isn't about the mafia and how it works. Nor is about those in the mafia. It's about how ties to the mafia impacts others. Whether they are related to those in the mafia or the person works for/with the mafia.
Thank you so much to Entangled Publishing and Marisa for allowing me the opportunity to read the ARC of this book. It truly was an amazing read and I’m excited for others to be able to experience it. I highly recommend this book.
April 24, 2025
4 ⭐️. There are two kinds of families. The family you’re born into, and the family you choose. If you had no choice but to pick between the two, which would you pick?
This is the first book I’ve read from Marisa Calcara, which my understanding is that it’s her debut novel, and it was a pretty good debut!!
The story follows Angela Pines and Brady McDaniels, who could not be more different, yet have more in common than they bargained for. They are both first-year law students, both from New York, both moved to California due to the same problem, both want to avoid falling for the other, and both have a huge secret to hide. Sometimes the saying is true—ignorance is bliss; but so is the other saying—everything eventually catches up to you.
Despite Brady’s initial intentions, he is such a sweet guy. He makes mistakes along the way, acts like an asshole at times, and things happen that are out of his control, but when he communicates with Angela, he’s patient, and pushes her out of her comfort zone AND THE BANTER. Amazing. Such a good Catholic boy… but not too good.
And Angela. She carries such a burden that she shouldn’t have to carry, and tries to right wrongs that were not her doing. She has so many emotional walls put up, which I relate to, but I enjoyed the way she works through them and opens herself up to him, both eventually working around their deal and boundaries.
There are some things Angela does that have you questioning the believe-ability of the story, like the hair, the name, etc. which obviously could’ve been better if she was trying to cover her tracks, but at the same time she’s not a pro. It’s evident throughout the story that she wasn’t a part of that world, didn’t want anything to do with it, wasn’t exactly trained, and this was done in a haste so she was working with what she had.
This had so many things I love in a book: relatable characters, emotional depth, romantic tension, a bit of suspense/high(ish) stakes, drama. Once I picked it up, I could not put it down. If you want an intro to mafia/mob stories, this is a great one to start with!
Overall I thoroughly enjoyed this and look forward to reading more of Marisa’s stories in the future. Thank you to Entangled Insiders and Marisa for the opportunity to read this ARC and provide my honest review 🤍
This is the first book I’ve read from Marisa Calcara, which my understanding is that it’s her debut novel, and it was a pretty good debut!!
The story follows Angela Pines and Brady McDaniels, who could not be more different, yet have more in common than they bargained for. They are both first-year law students, both from New York, both moved to California due to the same problem, both want to avoid falling for the other, and both have a huge secret to hide. Sometimes the saying is true—ignorance is bliss; but so is the other saying—everything eventually catches up to you.
Despite Brady’s initial intentions, he is such a sweet guy. He makes mistakes along the way, acts like an asshole at times, and things happen that are out of his control, but when he communicates with Angela, he’s patient, and pushes her out of her comfort zone AND THE BANTER. Amazing. Such a good Catholic boy… but not too good.
And Angela. She carries such a burden that she shouldn’t have to carry, and tries to right wrongs that were not her doing. She has so many emotional walls put up, which I relate to, but I enjoyed the way she works through them and opens herself up to him, both eventually working around their deal and boundaries.
There are some things Angela does that have you questioning the believe-ability of the story, like the hair, the name, etc. which obviously could’ve been better if she was trying to cover her tracks, but at the same time she’s not a pro. It’s evident throughout the story that she wasn’t a part of that world, didn’t want anything to do with it, wasn’t exactly trained, and this was done in a haste so she was working with what she had.
This had so many things I love in a book: relatable characters, emotional depth, romantic tension, a bit of suspense/high(ish) stakes, drama. Once I picked it up, I could not put it down. If you want an intro to mafia/mob stories, this is a great one to start with!
Overall I thoroughly enjoyed this and look forward to reading more of Marisa’s stories in the future. Thank you to Entangled Insiders and Marisa for the opportunity to read this ARC and provide my honest review 🤍
April 27, 2025
A Favor Owed is one of those books you simply don't want to put down. It has a recognizable, solid plotline that pulls you in right from the start, but what really stood out to me was the character development. Both the FMC and MMC had unique and rich backgrounds that made them feel so real, and Marisa Calcara wove the layers of their romance so smoothly that I found myself rooting for them almost instantly.
I appreciate any author who can create such a strong emotional connection that it actually brings me to tears, and Calcara absolutely accomplished that. I also loved that the story gave full closure by the end — a rare but wonderful thing when reading a single, standalone book.
Despite the author's description of the MMC, I kept picturing him as Matt Damon from Good Will Hunting — maybe because of the rough-around-the-edges charm. And as I read, the underlying tone reminded me a lot of Boondock Saints — it had that familiar feel but added a fresh twist and layered in a romance I hadn’t seen paired with this kind of gritty backdrop before.
The chemistry between the two main characters was so strong that honestly, I found myself wishing for a sequel. The bit of banter between them was some of my favorite parts, and it definitely made me fall even harder for their romance.
If I had to name one thing I would have liked more, it would be for the story to dip a little darker — to raise the stakes and make the conflict feel even more real and threatening. But I also understand that might have taken away from the strong focus on the romance, which is really the heart of the book.
Overall, I would definitely recommend A Favor Owed to anyone looking for an emotionally satisfying romance with just enough action and tension to keep you hooked. It's a quick, heartfelt read that leaves you feeling completely satisfied — and maybe just a little bit wistful for more.
I appreciate any author who can create such a strong emotional connection that it actually brings me to tears, and Calcara absolutely accomplished that. I also loved that the story gave full closure by the end — a rare but wonderful thing when reading a single, standalone book.
Despite the author's description of the MMC, I kept picturing him as Matt Damon from Good Will Hunting — maybe because of the rough-around-the-edges charm. And as I read, the underlying tone reminded me a lot of Boondock Saints — it had that familiar feel but added a fresh twist and layered in a romance I hadn’t seen paired with this kind of gritty backdrop before.
The chemistry between the two main characters was so strong that honestly, I found myself wishing for a sequel. The bit of banter between them was some of my favorite parts, and it definitely made me fall even harder for their romance.
If I had to name one thing I would have liked more, it would be for the story to dip a little darker — to raise the stakes and make the conflict feel even more real and threatening. But I also understand that might have taken away from the strong focus on the romance, which is really the heart of the book.
Overall, I would definitely recommend A Favor Owed to anyone looking for an emotionally satisfying romance with just enough action and tension to keep you hooked. It's a quick, heartfelt read that leaves you feeling completely satisfied — and maybe just a little bit wistful for more.
May 11, 2025
Thank you to Entangled Publishing for this E-ARC—because WOW, I was not ready for how hard this book would hit!
Y’all. A mafia princess in hiding + a cinnamon roll firefighter with secrets of his own? Add law school tension, some seriously swoony banter, and emotional gut-punches, and you've got a book I devoured in one sitting.
Angela Pines is fierce, guarded, and trying to outrun a last name soaked in crime. But this girl isn’t running for fear—she’s running to rebuild. Law school in sleepy Dos Torres isn’t glamorous, but it’s her shot at justice, redemption, and freedom. I adored her from page one. She’s not about the drama—she’s about doing the right thing, even when it breaks her.
And then there's Brady. Ohhh Brady.
This charming, flirtatious, secret-keeping sweetheart had me grinning and side-eyeing him HARD. But underneath the jokes and easy smile is a man who's seen too much, lost too much, and is just trying to protect what’s left.
And the romance? 🔥🥹💔 It’s tension-filled, slow-burn, and full of longing. You know the secrets are gonna blow everything up—and yet, you’re rooting for them with your whole heart. Also...Chapter 33?? Absolutely broke me. Brady’s POV during 9/11? Raw, beautiful, devastating. I had actual tears.
This story isn’t about the mafia—it’s about surviving its shadow. It’s about two people trying to claw their way out of the wreckage of their pasts and figure out if love is worth the risk when secrets are life or death.
A swoony, emotional, fast-paced debut that hits all the marks. If you love undercover tension, Dirty Dancing references, banter that bites, and characters with depth, grab this book ASAP.
💌 Favorite Things:
– Angela’s fight to right her family’s wrongs
– Brady’s soft heart behind all the charm
– Twists, secrets, and emotional weight
– YES to that mental health rep
– All the Dirty Dancing Easter eggs!
My heart is still recovering. Marisa Calcara, you just earned a forever reader. 🖤
Y’all. A mafia princess in hiding + a cinnamon roll firefighter with secrets of his own? Add law school tension, some seriously swoony banter, and emotional gut-punches, and you've got a book I devoured in one sitting.
Angela Pines is fierce, guarded, and trying to outrun a last name soaked in crime. But this girl isn’t running for fear—she’s running to rebuild. Law school in sleepy Dos Torres isn’t glamorous, but it’s her shot at justice, redemption, and freedom. I adored her from page one. She’s not about the drama—she’s about doing the right thing, even when it breaks her.
And then there's Brady. Ohhh Brady.
This charming, flirtatious, secret-keeping sweetheart had me grinning and side-eyeing him HARD. But underneath the jokes and easy smile is a man who's seen too much, lost too much, and is just trying to protect what’s left.
And the romance? 🔥🥹💔 It’s tension-filled, slow-burn, and full of longing. You know the secrets are gonna blow everything up—and yet, you’re rooting for them with your whole heart. Also...Chapter 33?? Absolutely broke me. Brady’s POV during 9/11? Raw, beautiful, devastating. I had actual tears.
This story isn’t about the mafia—it’s about surviving its shadow. It’s about two people trying to claw their way out of the wreckage of their pasts and figure out if love is worth the risk when secrets are life or death.
A swoony, emotional, fast-paced debut that hits all the marks. If you love undercover tension, Dirty Dancing references, banter that bites, and characters with depth, grab this book ASAP.
💌 Favorite Things:
– Angela’s fight to right her family’s wrongs
– Brady’s soft heart behind all the charm
– Twists, secrets, and emotional weight
– YES to that mental health rep
– All the Dirty Dancing Easter eggs!
My heart is still recovering. Marisa Calcara, you just earned a forever reader. 🖤
May 1, 2025
This book was okayy, 2.5 stars. I will admit that I expected a more typical mafia romance, but that's not what this was, so there wasn't a lot of action. I liked Angela and Brady's chemistry, but considering his attitude at the start, thinking she "owed him" for something, I was not a bit fan of Brady and wasn't really rooting for them to be together. Considering that it's marketed as having a "struggling law student" and a "firefighter" fall in love, I didn't expect him to be a law student as well, but rather a firefighter in the small town that she ended up with. I just felt like him being a firefighter didn't really add much to the story.
Angela was meant to be a very intelligent law student, but then you're telling me that she decided to use a fake name, chosen with the whole purpose of not being found by her family, which was Angela Pines, when her actual name is She also forgave Brady waaaay too easily, and even if he was justified in his actions, I just don't think that's the best way to start a relationship... I would have liked to see her making him grovel for a while! He really should have.
*Side note: I think I really don't understand how the education system works in the States because how was he a firefighter and then got into law school no problem? And her background? Idk I was just confused about the whole thing, but that's a me issue!*
Overall, the story had potential, and it was a quick read, but I felt like the characters lacked some depth and it all fell a little bit flat.
Thank you to NetGalley, Entangled Publishing, LLC, and Marisa Calcara for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Angela was meant to be a very intelligent law student, but then you're telling me that she decided to use a fake name, chosen with the whole purpose of not being found by her family, which was Angela Pines, when her actual name is She also forgave Brady waaaay too easily, and even if he was justified in his actions, I just don't think that's the best way to start a relationship... I would have liked to see her making him grovel for a while! He really should have.
*Side note: I think I really don't understand how the education system works in the States because how was he a firefighter and then got into law school no problem? And her background? Idk I was just confused about the whole thing, but that's a me issue!*
Overall, the story had potential, and it was a quick read, but I felt like the characters lacked some depth and it all fell a little bit flat.
Thank you to NetGalley, Entangled Publishing, LLC, and Marisa Calcara for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 18, 2025
DNF @ 52%
I was fascinated by this concept, but there were a few things not working for me here.
First, the MMC has a horrible view of women and I got very tired very quickly of the way he referred to Angela's body. He was too much of a playboy internally while externally being nice and it was just a weird balance?
Second, the way Brady was deceiving Angela made me angry in general, which I know is kinda the point. But I could tell from the writing and the way he acted that I was not going to feel redeemed when the truth finally came out. I was dreading reading on more than I was excited because I just had a feeling that I would be more irritated with the whole situation. (I did not finish so I don't know if my fears were actualized or not)
Third, the writing was very simple (not a bad thing) and seemed weak in trying to succinctly build atmosphere and characterization in the beginning.
Fourth and probably most importantly, this was a romance and I felt ZERO chemistry between our two leads. There was physical attraction (which on his end was almost gross in his mind) but that's about it. The reason and way they begin talking felt out of place - he was in her class all along and they knew of each other but she almost reacts like she was meeting him for the first time? It was just a very confusing vibe between them. But I felt no emotional attachment, especially because the reader knows that he is deceiving her intentionally while she is deceiving him out of safety/necessity.
Overall just a little disappointed by this but as I am also not a typical mafia romance reader, maybe this is just not for me?
Thank you to Entangled Amara for the advanced access to this title. My review is completely voluntary, completely my own, and always completely honest.
I was fascinated by this concept, but there were a few things not working for me here.
First, the MMC has a horrible view of women and I got very tired very quickly of the way he referred to Angela's body. He was too much of a playboy internally while externally being nice and it was just a weird balance?
Second, the way Brady was deceiving Angela made me angry in general, which I know is kinda the point. But I could tell from the writing and the way he acted that I was not going to feel redeemed when the truth finally came out. I was dreading reading on more than I was excited because I just had a feeling that I would be more irritated with the whole situation. (I did not finish so I don't know if my fears were actualized or not)
Third, the writing was very simple (not a bad thing) and seemed weak in trying to succinctly build atmosphere and characterization in the beginning.
Fourth and probably most importantly, this was a romance and I felt ZERO chemistry between our two leads. There was physical attraction (which on his end was almost gross in his mind) but that's about it. The reason and way they begin talking felt out of place - he was in her class all along and they knew of each other but she almost reacts like she was meeting him for the first time? It was just a very confusing vibe between them. But I felt no emotional attachment, especially because the reader knows that he is deceiving her intentionally while she is deceiving him out of safety/necessity.
Overall just a little disappointed by this but as I am also not a typical mafia romance reader, maybe this is just not for me?
Thank you to Entangled Amara for the advanced access to this title. My review is completely voluntary, completely my own, and always completely honest.
August 21, 2025
Thank you so much to Entangled Publishing for an eARC of this book!! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I’m a sucker for a good mafia/mob romance. The super possessive, dominant male who will do anything for his girl, including getting blood on his hands while the girl is quiet and reserved (usually). But what if our mafia princess isn’t one to sit idly by after learning of her father’s dealings behind his strip clubs? And what if our super possessive dominant male isn’t even in the mafia but is a firefighter in law school? SIGN ME UP.
When I say I was obsessed with Angela and Brady’s relationship I mean it. Angie had such a tragic backstory but to see her take a road less traveled to give back to those her family has and those her family didn’t have a hand in abusing. It was such a refreshing taste on one of my favorite sub genres.
Then came Brady’s story. There were mysteries that I didn’t even guess right up until the end. The author did an amazing job keeping everyone’s secrets tightly under wraps until the very last moment. And Brady’s connection to 9/11? Grab your tissues ladies and gentlemen.
The way that the author described parts of the story made me feel like I was right there living it. I could smell Angie’s soft, coconut hair. Smell the Guinness straight from the tap at Finnegan’s. Feel the ash coating my throat as the wildfires raged on. I cannot brag on this author enough for that. It was beautiful.
I need more from Calcara and soon!! This was a wonderfully executed twist on a mafia story that will definitely be in my top reads of 2025. I’ll be waiting not so patiently for Calcara’s next story!! If you love a good mafia romance, this book is for you!
I’m a sucker for a good mafia/mob romance. The super possessive, dominant male who will do anything for his girl, including getting blood on his hands while the girl is quiet and reserved (usually). But what if our mafia princess isn’t one to sit idly by after learning of her father’s dealings behind his strip clubs? And what if our super possessive dominant male isn’t even in the mafia but is a firefighter in law school? SIGN ME UP.
When I say I was obsessed with Angela and Brady’s relationship I mean it. Angie had such a tragic backstory but to see her take a road less traveled to give back to those her family has and those her family didn’t have a hand in abusing. It was such a refreshing taste on one of my favorite sub genres.
Then came Brady’s story. There were mysteries that I didn’t even guess right up until the end. The author did an amazing job keeping everyone’s secrets tightly under wraps until the very last moment. And Brady’s connection to 9/11? Grab your tissues ladies and gentlemen.
The way that the author described parts of the story made me feel like I was right there living it. I could smell Angie’s soft, coconut hair. Smell the Guinness straight from the tap at Finnegan’s. Feel the ash coating my throat as the wildfires raged on. I cannot brag on this author enough for that. It was beautiful.
I need more from Calcara and soon!! This was a wonderfully executed twist on a mafia story that will definitely be in my top reads of 2025. I’ll be waiting not so patiently for Calcara’s next story!! If you love a good mafia romance, this book is for you!
April 21, 2025
*I received an ARC of this book from Entangled Publishing.*
If my name was Angelina Pini, my cover name would most definitely not be Angela Pines 🤦🏻♀️
I feel like the summary blurb gives off a total vibe and the book just does not match it.
The book was okay in the beginning until we get to where Brady just keeps repeating that Angie owes him. He repeatedly states she owes him when she doesn’t truly know him or what he is doing. Then at the end of the book Brady realizes that Angie never owed him. Make that make sense.
Brady is okay with his dad forging documents but since his dad got caught after providing fraudulent documents to Angela, it’s her fault. Brady is just grazing over the fact that his dad is the one that makes the decision to partake in the illegal activities. Drug smuggling and money laundering are all fine and dandy to Angie but she draws the line at human trafficking. Brady and Angie truly are two peas in a pod.
What does a warm girl smell like? I got tired of hearing that Angela smelled like warm citrus and that her hair smelled like coconuts. 76% of the way through the book, Angela has spent 3 nights in a motel and a week living in his apartment and you are just now stating she took out her contacts to show Brady her true eye color?
The ending has things that just don’t make sense. Angela talks about how she knows she will forgive Brady even though she preciously mentioned she has already forgiven him. In the epilogue, it’s mentioned that eventually Angela‘s dad will get out of prison although previously in the book her dad was already let out of jail on bond, so I’m not sure why this plothole here.
If my name was Angelina Pini, my cover name would most definitely not be Angela Pines 🤦🏻♀️
I feel like the summary blurb gives off a total vibe and the book just does not match it.
The book was okay in the beginning until we get to where Brady just keeps repeating that Angie owes him. He repeatedly states she owes him when she doesn’t truly know him or what he is doing. Then at the end of the book Brady realizes that Angie never owed him. Make that make sense.
Brady is okay with his dad forging documents but since his dad got caught after providing fraudulent documents to Angela, it’s her fault. Brady is just grazing over the fact that his dad is the one that makes the decision to partake in the illegal activities. Drug smuggling and money laundering are all fine and dandy to Angie but she draws the line at human trafficking. Brady and Angie truly are two peas in a pod.
What does a warm girl smell like? I got tired of hearing that Angela smelled like warm citrus and that her hair smelled like coconuts. 76% of the way through the book, Angela has spent 3 nights in a motel and a week living in his apartment and you are just now stating she took out her contacts to show Brady her true eye color?
The ending has things that just don’t make sense. Angela talks about how she knows she will forgive Brady even though she preciously mentioned she has already forgiven him. In the epilogue, it’s mentioned that eventually Angela‘s dad will get out of prison although previously in the book her dad was already let out of jail on bond, so I’m not sure why this plothole here.
May 16, 2025
This was a surprising read for me. As a first-time author Marisa Calcara was able to create a memorable and easy flowing novel. I found myself thoroughly enjoying the book, and excited to get back to it.
The book is a little bit of everything, mafia romance, college life, a hint of enemies to lovers, and found family. The character are all developed well, Angela and Brady have good backgrounds and amazing chemistry. Having the dual point of view was good for this storyline, to be able to understand the secrets between the two of them that weren’t shared with each other. The build for the relationship was enticing, evening with the ‘dead end’ that was approaching. I adored Angela, while at times she almost seems too perfect of a character, she was great. She is quirky, smart, caring, and learning to find her own way for the first time in her life. Brady was fun, reading his point of view was needed for the story so you didn’t hate him, without knowing him I think those table could have definitely turned. Their romance is swoon worthy and intense, but heart-aching too – I may have teared up near the end. The one character that didn’t seem realistic to me was the big boss, Angelo. There was a lot of hype around him through the book, about being dangerous, not caring, business first, but when we finally do meet him (in not the best way), I didn’t really believe him as a character.
Mafia romance hasn’t been a genre that I read often, but this was a nice entry into it. While the mafia is there, it wasn’t a prominent part of the story. I did not expect to enjoy this book as much as I did.
Thank you to Entangled Publishing for this Advanced Readers Copy.
The book is a little bit of everything, mafia romance, college life, a hint of enemies to lovers, and found family. The character are all developed well, Angela and Brady have good backgrounds and amazing chemistry. Having the dual point of view was good for this storyline, to be able to understand the secrets between the two of them that weren’t shared with each other. The build for the relationship was enticing, evening with the ‘dead end’ that was approaching. I adored Angela, while at times she almost seems too perfect of a character, she was great. She is quirky, smart, caring, and learning to find her own way for the first time in her life. Brady was fun, reading his point of view was needed for the story so you didn’t hate him, without knowing him I think those table could have definitely turned. Their romance is swoon worthy and intense, but heart-aching too – I may have teared up near the end. The one character that didn’t seem realistic to me was the big boss, Angelo. There was a lot of hype around him through the book, about being dangerous, not caring, business first, but when we finally do meet him (in not the best way), I didn’t really believe him as a character.
Mafia romance hasn’t been a genre that I read often, but this was a nice entry into it. While the mafia is there, it wasn’t a prominent part of the story. I did not expect to enjoy this book as much as I did.
Thank you to Entangled Publishing for this Advanced Readers Copy.
September 30, 2025
Thank you Entangled and NetGalley for the ARC.
A mafia princess in the middle of the desert in California. A young man fighting to keep his father out of jail. A love that blossoms where it shouldn't.
The characters in this book were interesting. I liked the female main character. I thought that her characterization was really amazing and she felt like a real person. Her characterization was done really well. The main male character's characterization was slightly strange. His characterization does have a reference to 9/11 and the people who died on that day. It was a strange inclusion to me, not that I didn't like it but it was just a little strange in the context of the story. He also said and did things that were cringy to me.
The plot of this book was silly and unrealistic but I did really like it. The mystery and the intrigue of it was interesting. I was rooting for the main characters the whole time. I did read this in one day so I really ate up this plot. There was also a plot point at the end that I thought was wholly unrealistic and kind of put me off of the story. I barreled through but still.
The romance was okay. It was cute and I liked it. But some of the things that both of them did were cringy and it was hard to read. Mostly I just kind of skimmed over those portions and kept going but there were definitely a couple of things that happened that put me off. It was just a strange combination of cute romantic parts and cringy thoughts and dialogue.
Overall, it was an interesting story to read and an easy one too. I think that people that like romance or people looking to get into mafia romance will really like this one.
A mafia princess in the middle of the desert in California. A young man fighting to keep his father out of jail. A love that blossoms where it shouldn't.
The characters in this book were interesting. I liked the female main character. I thought that her characterization was really amazing and she felt like a real person. Her characterization was done really well. The main male character's characterization was slightly strange. His characterization does have a reference to 9/11 and the people who died on that day. It was a strange inclusion to me, not that I didn't like it but it was just a little strange in the context of the story. He also said and did things that were cringy to me.
The plot of this book was silly and unrealistic but I did really like it. The mystery and the intrigue of it was interesting. I was rooting for the main characters the whole time. I did read this in one day so I really ate up this plot. There was also a plot point at the end that I thought was wholly unrealistic and kind of put me off of the story. I barreled through but still.
The romance was okay. It was cute and I liked it. But some of the things that both of them did were cringy and it was hard to read. Mostly I just kind of skimmed over those portions and kept going but there were definitely a couple of things that happened that put me off. It was just a strange combination of cute romantic parts and cringy thoughts and dialogue.
Overall, it was an interesting story to read and an easy one too. I think that people that like romance or people looking to get into mafia romance will really like this one.
April 20, 2025
🖤💼 She’s hiding from the mafia. He’s hiding something darker. Falling for each other? That was never part of the plan.
⠀
I devoured A Favor Owed in one sitting. It’s the kind of gritty, tension-filled romance that keeps you flipping pages and side-eyeing everyone for secrets. 👀💣
⠀
This isn't your typical bad girl meets good guy story. Nope. She’s a former mafia princess trying to outrun her family’s sins, and he’s the charming complication who might just have ties to something even more dangerous.
⠀
Dos Torres may look sleepy, but what brews beneath the surface? 🔥🔥🔥
⠀
Expect lies, secrets, slow-burn chemistry, and twists that will leave you gasping. Marisa Calcara brought the heat, the danger, and just enough vulnerability to make your heart ache.
⠀
✨ Tropes/Elements:
🖤 Mafia Princess in Hiding
🧢 Boy Next Door (With Secrets 👀)
💥 Hidden Identity
🌶️ Slow Burn, High Stakes
🤐 Forced Secrecy
❤️🔥 Forbidden Romance
🚨 Found Out = Game Over
⠀
If you’re a fan of dark secrets, morally gray characters, and romantic suspense that pulls you in and doesn’t let go? Add A Favor Owed to your TBR now.
⠀
—
#AFavorOwed #MarisaCalcara #EntangledAmara #RomanticSuspense #MafiaRomance #SecretsAndLies #HiddenIdentityRomance #SlowBurnRomance #BooktokMadeMeDoIt #NetGalleyRead #BookstagramRecs #TBRAddict #BookishHook #RomanceWithBite #DangerousLove #RomanticThriller #NewAdultRomance #MafiaPrincessVibes #HeFallsHard #SheRunsFaster #SpicyReads #BooksWithSecrets #literaryhavocreviews
⠀
I devoured A Favor Owed in one sitting. It’s the kind of gritty, tension-filled romance that keeps you flipping pages and side-eyeing everyone for secrets. 👀💣
⠀
This isn't your typical bad girl meets good guy story. Nope. She’s a former mafia princess trying to outrun her family’s sins, and he’s the charming complication who might just have ties to something even more dangerous.
⠀
Dos Torres may look sleepy, but what brews beneath the surface? 🔥🔥🔥
⠀
Expect lies, secrets, slow-burn chemistry, and twists that will leave you gasping. Marisa Calcara brought the heat, the danger, and just enough vulnerability to make your heart ache.
⠀
✨ Tropes/Elements:
🖤 Mafia Princess in Hiding
🧢 Boy Next Door (With Secrets 👀)
💥 Hidden Identity
🌶️ Slow Burn, High Stakes
🤐 Forced Secrecy
❤️🔥 Forbidden Romance
🚨 Found Out = Game Over
⠀
If you’re a fan of dark secrets, morally gray characters, and romantic suspense that pulls you in and doesn’t let go? Add A Favor Owed to your TBR now.
⠀
—
#AFavorOwed #MarisaCalcara #EntangledAmara #RomanticSuspense #MafiaRomance #SecretsAndLies #HiddenIdentityRomance #SlowBurnRomance #BooktokMadeMeDoIt #NetGalleyRead #BookstagramRecs #TBRAddict #BookishHook #RomanceWithBite #DangerousLove #RomanticThriller #NewAdultRomance #MafiaPrincessVibes #HeFallsHard #SheRunsFaster #SpicyReads #BooksWithSecrets #literaryhavocreviews
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