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A Family Betrayal: A totally addictive and absolutely gripping crime thriller with a jaw-dropping twist
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘I loved it… Totally addictive and absolutely gripping… Jaw-dropping… Totally gripped from the beginning till the very end!’ Goodreads reviewer
Betrayal cuts deep when it comes from within the family…
Maria Capello was raised by her gangster father with just one family is everything. Now he’s dead, Maria works as a lawyer by day and a mob boss by risking everything if her secret life is ever revealed. But that’s just what you do for family, isn’t it…
She trusts her smart, suave, dependable brother, Alex, with her life, but she can’t say the same about her other brother Antonio. As the black sheep of the family, Antonio is here for a good time, not a long time and Maria hopes that he will never force her to make a choice between him and the family.
So when the head of another firm visits with news about Antonio causing problems in the grimy underworld of London’s Soho, Maria is furious. Of course she wants to protect her baby brother, but he just made an enemy of one of the deadliest families in London. If she doesn’t act now, all hell will break loose. She can’t afford to look weak in front of the firm.
But Maria and Alex have no idea that Antonio has already betrayed the family in the worst possible way. He’s broken every rule they’ve ever lived by. Maria finds herself with a decision to make – look out for the firm or protect Antonio and risk everything her father built going up in flames. Can the Capellos survive, or will bad blood kill them off for good?
Fans of Martina Cole, Jacqui Rose and Kimberley Chambers will absolutely love this first book in a thrilling new series from bestselling gangland author Emma Tallon.
What readers are saying about A Family Betrayal:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘It’s been a long time since I’ve sat on the edge of my seat, devouring a book like I just did… You won’t be able to put this down until you’ve finished! I was hooked… just wanted to keep turning the pages the second I started!’ Arcreviews_by_m
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Oh my goodness… a book of the year… I can’t lie, I NEED more… I have no regrets in devouring this in just one sitting. I just need more… Fantastic… I’ll be recommending this to anyone and everyone who will listen.’ Little Miss Book Lover 87
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Amazing with a capital A!!! I couldn't put it down at all had to finish it.’ Goodreads reviewer
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Once started there was no way I was able to put this book down. All the Bravos, hell yeahs and as many stars as possible. Hooked… An absolute corker of a read.’ Vicki at I Love Reading UK
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Utterly gripping – I couldn’t put it down… Grabs you by the collar and doesn’t let go… I was hooked&l
Betrayal cuts deep when it comes from within the family…
Maria Capello was raised by her gangster father with just one family is everything. Now he’s dead, Maria works as a lawyer by day and a mob boss by risking everything if her secret life is ever revealed. But that’s just what you do for family, isn’t it…
She trusts her smart, suave, dependable brother, Alex, with her life, but she can’t say the same about her other brother Antonio. As the black sheep of the family, Antonio is here for a good time, not a long time and Maria hopes that he will never force her to make a choice between him and the family.
So when the head of another firm visits with news about Antonio causing problems in the grimy underworld of London’s Soho, Maria is furious. Of course she wants to protect her baby brother, but he just made an enemy of one of the deadliest families in London. If she doesn’t act now, all hell will break loose. She can’t afford to look weak in front of the firm.
But Maria and Alex have no idea that Antonio has already betrayed the family in the worst possible way. He’s broken every rule they’ve ever lived by. Maria finds herself with a decision to make – look out for the firm or protect Antonio and risk everything her father built going up in flames. Can the Capellos survive, or will bad blood kill them off for good?
Fans of Martina Cole, Jacqui Rose and Kimberley Chambers will absolutely love this first book in a thrilling new series from bestselling gangland author Emma Tallon.
What readers are saying about A Family Betrayal:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘It’s been a long time since I’ve sat on the edge of my seat, devouring a book like I just did… You won’t be able to put this down until you’ve finished! I was hooked… just wanted to keep turning the pages the second I started!’ Arcreviews_by_m
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Oh my goodness… a book of the year… I can’t lie, I NEED more… I have no regrets in devouring this in just one sitting. I just need more… Fantastic… I’ll be recommending this to anyone and everyone who will listen.’ Little Miss Book Lover 87
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Amazing with a capital A!!! I couldn't put it down at all had to finish it.’ Goodreads reviewer
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Once started there was no way I was able to put this book down. All the Bravos, hell yeahs and as many stars as possible. Hooked… An absolute corker of a read.’ Vicki at I Love Reading UK
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Utterly gripping – I couldn’t put it down… Grabs you by the collar and doesn’t let go… I was hooked&l
322 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 30, 2025
521 people are currently reading
41 people want to read
About the author
Emma Tallon
29 books197 followersEmma Tallon is a British author of gripping, gritty, organised crime thrillers.
Having worked as a freelance ghostwriter for several years, Emma decided to take the professional leap after the birth of her son and finished the first full novel of her own.
After months of rejection from publishers and agents alike, in December 2017 Emma signed a publishing contract with Bookouture for the first three books in the Tyler Family series. She has since gone on to sign several more contracts with Bookouture and has become an established name within her genre.
For more information on Emma or to join her mailing list, please go to: www.emmatallon.com or alternatively, follow her on Facebook: www.facebook.com/emmatallonofficial Instagram: @my.author.life or Twitter: @EmmaEsj
Having worked as a freelance ghostwriter for several years, Emma decided to take the professional leap after the birth of her son and finished the first full novel of her own.
After months of rejection from publishers and agents alike, in December 2017 Emma signed a publishing contract with Bookouture for the first three books in the Tyler Family series. She has since gone on to sign several more contracts with Bookouture and has become an established name within her genre.
For more information on Emma or to join her mailing list, please go to: www.emmatallon.com or alternatively, follow her on Facebook: www.facebook.com/emmatallonofficial Instagram: @my.author.life or Twitter: @EmmaEsj
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
June 29, 2025
˗ˏˋ 4 stars ⟡ ݁₊ .
this book had me hooked since the very first page, and i really liked the gangland crime aspect of the book very much. there were a lot of twists and tuens the made me flew through the book in a few hours.
and as for the characters, i loved how maria was portrayed as a badass girlboss. also, alex's first interaction with orla was so cute. fully despised antonio and bianca cuz they're the resident dickhead duo (iykyk). sophia was such a loving mother, i loved how she helped cat and orla out without any hesitation. last but not last, greg and jeanie, i'm just glad they got what they deserved by the end. it was very satisfying seeing them getting served.
although i was able to predict the plot twist very early on, it was still very addicting nonetheless. and judging by how the book ended, im a lil intrigued about the next book and i kinda want to know what's going to happen next.
⤷ thank you to netgalley, the publisher and the author for providing me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
︶︶︶⊹︶︶︶˗ˋ୨♡୧ˊ˗︶︶︶⊹︶︶︶
₊˚⊹♡ pre-read ♡⊹˚₊ ↴
second to last arc that's due in june and it's a thriller. praying it doesn't freak me out bc i'm a scaredy cat
this book had me hooked since the very first page, and i really liked the gangland crime aspect of the book very much. there were a lot of twists and tuens the made me flew through the book in a few hours.
and as for the characters, i loved how maria was portrayed as a badass girlboss. also, alex's first interaction with orla was so cute. fully despised antonio and bianca cuz they're the resident dickhead duo (iykyk). sophia was such a loving mother, i loved how she helped cat and orla out without any hesitation. last but not last, greg and jeanie, i'm just glad they got what they deserved by the end. it was very satisfying seeing them getting served.
although i was able to predict the plot twist very early on, it was still very addicting nonetheless. and judging by how the book ended, im a lil intrigued about the next book and i kinda want to know what's going to happen next.
⤷ thank you to netgalley, the publisher and the author for providing me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
︶︶︶⊹︶︶︶˗ˋ୨♡୧ˊ˗︶︶︶⊹︶︶︶
₊˚⊹♡ pre-read ♡⊹˚₊ ↴
second to last arc that's due in june and it's a thriller. praying it doesn't freak me out bc i'm a scaredy cat
June 24, 2025
You know what you are getting with an Emma Tallon book so when I picked it up to read, even though was a new series, I expected, and got, a tough gangland family and the chaos they would be bringing to London, to others…and each other, I wasn’t disappointed
The Capello’s are 2 brothers ( Alex and Antonio) and 1 sister ( Maria ) and of course there is the matriarch Mum who still feeds them all etc, her word goes ( mostly ) the brothers are on the radar and known crims but the sister not so even though she is a driving force of the ‘businesses’
We meet them, get to know them and see what happens when a stranger enters their lives, a stranger who has been wronged, not all the family welcome her with open arms got to be said, the story then goes full on drama
Of course I loved it, loved the characters, the writing and was great to see characters from the authors previous series’ pop up and be involved in the story
It takes a lot to write consistently readable series’ but this author can do no wrong in this genre and look forward to Book 2 and what is to come
The Capello’s are 2 brothers ( Alex and Antonio) and 1 sister ( Maria ) and of course there is the matriarch Mum who still feeds them all etc, her word goes ( mostly ) the brothers are on the radar and known crims but the sister not so even though she is a driving force of the ‘businesses’
We meet them, get to know them and see what happens when a stranger enters their lives, a stranger who has been wronged, not all the family welcome her with open arms got to be said, the story then goes full on drama
Of course I loved it, loved the characters, the writing and was great to see characters from the authors previous series’ pop up and be involved in the story
It takes a lot to write consistently readable series’ but this author can do no wrong in this genre and look forward to Book 2 and what is to come
September 4, 2025
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.I went into A Family Betrayal with high expectations, and Emma Tallon did not disappoint. She delivers a gripping crime thriller that pulls readers right into the intricate dynamics of the Capello crime family.
A Family Betrayal is the first book in Emma Tallon’s Capello Family series, and it sets the stage for a gripping saga. With this strong opener, the series is off to a fantastic start. If you decide to pick it up—and I highly recommend that you do—prepare yourself for a fast-paced tale filled with twists, tension, and complex characters you’ll either root for or despise.
Meet the Capello siblings—Maria, Alex, and Antonio—who inherit not only their father’s empire but also the enemies and secrets that come with it. In this world, trust is fragile, and betrayal cuts the deepest when it comes from blood. Who turned against the family, and why, is the question that burns throughout the story—and the only way to uncover the truth is to step inside their dangerous world.
The drama escalates when Cat—an outsider with no ties to the criminal underworld—steps into the Capellos’ lives with her young daughter. Her presence disrupts the fragile balance, and not everyone is willing to accept her. Yet, against the odds, she refuses to be broken. Her struggle tugs at the heart, drawing readers to root for her survival and quiet triumph amidst the chaos.
Dark, suspenseful, and emotionally charged, A Family Betrayal will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. More than just a crime thriller, it’s a tale of power, loyalty, and survival in a world where family can be your greatest strength—or your deadliest enemy.This review was originally posted on Totally Addicted to Reading
A Family Betrayal is the first book in Emma Tallon’s Capello Family series, and it sets the stage for a gripping saga. With this strong opener, the series is off to a fantastic start. If you decide to pick it up—and I highly recommend that you do—prepare yourself for a fast-paced tale filled with twists, tension, and complex characters you’ll either root for or despise.
Meet the Capello siblings—Maria, Alex, and Antonio—who inherit not only their father’s empire but also the enemies and secrets that come with it. In this world, trust is fragile, and betrayal cuts the deepest when it comes from blood. Who turned against the family, and why, is the question that burns throughout the story—and the only way to uncover the truth is to step inside their dangerous world.
The drama escalates when Cat—an outsider with no ties to the criminal underworld—steps into the Capellos’ lives with her young daughter. Her presence disrupts the fragile balance, and not everyone is willing to accept her. Yet, against the odds, she refuses to be broken. Her struggle tugs at the heart, drawing readers to root for her survival and quiet triumph amidst the chaos.
Dark, suspenseful, and emotionally charged, A Family Betrayal will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. More than just a crime thriller, it’s a tale of power, loyalty, and survival in a world where family can be your greatest strength—or your deadliest enemy.This review was originally posted on Totally Addicted to Reading
May 23, 2025
This is one of my favorite authors in the gangland crime genre. She has already blown me away twice with fantastic series—one featuring the Tyler family and the other the Drews. I was sad to say goodbye to them, but now she's back, and I couldn’t wait to dive right in.
We are introduced to the Capellos: Mama Sophia and her three children—Maria, Alex, and Antonio.
Maria actually leads a double life. She’s a successful lawyer by day and a formidable figure in the mafia world by night. Alex is the head of the "firm" and Antonio is often a loose cannon… Which, of course, makes him a danger—not just to his enemies, but also to those around him and to himself.
What I absolutely love about this author is that she doesn’t forget her ‘heroes’ from previous series, and often gives them a guest appearance in her newest one.
Is this a good first book? Absolutely! I enjoyed every word, every action, and every betrayal. Let’s face it—being betrayed is never fun, but when it’s by someone you know well and hold dear, it cuts so much deeper.
I can hardly wait for the next book to come out, and I'm counting down the days. Judging by the ending of this story, I'm already convinced we’re in for a treat. Amazing book, and once again I was sad when I finished it. The saying is correct: all good things come to an end. ;) 5 stars
Thank you.
We are introduced to the Capellos: Mama Sophia and her three children—Maria, Alex, and Antonio.
Maria actually leads a double life. She’s a successful lawyer by day and a formidable figure in the mafia world by night. Alex is the head of the "firm" and Antonio is often a loose cannon… Which, of course, makes him a danger—not just to his enemies, but also to those around him and to himself.
What I absolutely love about this author is that she doesn’t forget her ‘heroes’ from previous series, and often gives them a guest appearance in her newest one.
Is this a good first book? Absolutely! I enjoyed every word, every action, and every betrayal. Let’s face it—being betrayed is never fun, but when it’s by someone you know well and hold dear, it cuts so much deeper.
I can hardly wait for the next book to come out, and I'm counting down the days. Judging by the ending of this story, I'm already convinced we’re in for a treat. Amazing book, and once again I was sad when I finished it. The saying is correct: all good things come to an end. ;) 5 stars
Thank you.
June 24, 2025
Alex and Antonio are brothers but far different to each other. Alex is the good brother, but Antonio is the bad one. Not always doing what the family stands for. Maria is the sister and a lawyer, and she takes control of everything and by night she is a Mafia boss, There is also there Mother Sofia.
Cat’s father has just passed away and she always though that she would have control of the family business but instead is being left to her soon to be exp husband Greg. But before she realises that she asks for a divorce. And then finds about the company has been left to him. Greg chucks her out on the street with their daughter Orla.
With nowhere to go she ends up at the cemetery and buy chance meets Alex who offers her a job as a housekeeper whilst his mother recuperates from an accident. She agrees unaware of what she has got herself in for.
I get excited when Ms Tallon has a new series and I wasn’t disappointed with The family betrayal, the first in the series about The Capello family. This is another great start of a series by Emma Tallon. This is another action-packed story of not only the depths someone would go to betray members of their own family. But also, loyalty to one another. This is a fantastic read. 5 stars from me.
Cat’s father has just passed away and she always though that she would have control of the family business but instead is being left to her soon to be exp husband Greg. But before she realises that she asks for a divorce. And then finds about the company has been left to him. Greg chucks her out on the street with their daughter Orla.
With nowhere to go she ends up at the cemetery and buy chance meets Alex who offers her a job as a housekeeper whilst his mother recuperates from an accident. She agrees unaware of what she has got herself in for.
I get excited when Ms Tallon has a new series and I wasn’t disappointed with The family betrayal, the first in the series about The Capello family. This is another great start of a series by Emma Tallon. This is another action-packed story of not only the depths someone would go to betray members of their own family. But also, loyalty to one another. This is a fantastic read. 5 stars from me.
June 27, 2025
The Capello Family Series Book 1
Maria, Alex and Antonio Capello were raised by their gangster father where family is everything. Now he's dead, Maria works as a lawyer by day and a mob boss by risking everything of her secret is ever revealed. She trusts her smart, suave, dependable brother, Alex, with her life, but it breaks her heart she can't say the same about Antonio. As the black sheep of the family, Antonio is here for a good time, not a long time. So when the head of another firm visits with news about Antonio causing problems in the gang underworld of London's Soho, Maria is furious.
We are introduced to a new family, The Capello's, their mother Sophia and her grown-up children, Maria, Alex and Antonio. Maria is a lawyer by day and a mob boss by night. Alex is the boss of the firm, and Antonio is out for a good time and doesn't care who he upsets along the way.
The first book in a new series and it's a belter. I could not put it down. We meet again a character from a previous series.
Published 30th June 2025
I would like to thank #NetGalley #Bookouture and the author #EmmaTallon for my ARC of #AFamilyBetrayal in exchange for an honest review.
Maria, Alex and Antonio Capello were raised by their gangster father where family is everything. Now he's dead, Maria works as a lawyer by day and a mob boss by risking everything of her secret is ever revealed. She trusts her smart, suave, dependable brother, Alex, with her life, but it breaks her heart she can't say the same about Antonio. As the black sheep of the family, Antonio is here for a good time, not a long time. So when the head of another firm visits with news about Antonio causing problems in the gang underworld of London's Soho, Maria is furious.
We are introduced to a new family, The Capello's, their mother Sophia and her grown-up children, Maria, Alex and Antonio. Maria is a lawyer by day and a mob boss by night. Alex is the boss of the firm, and Antonio is out for a good time and doesn't care who he upsets along the way.
The first book in a new series and it's a belter. I could not put it down. We meet again a character from a previous series.
Published 30th June 2025
I would like to thank #NetGalley #Bookouture and the author #EmmaTallon for my ARC of #AFamilyBetrayal in exchange for an honest review.
June 1, 2025
Book 1 of The Capello Family Series
Emma Tallon has done it again! I intended to start this book and red a chapter or two. Luckily I had a day off work because once started there was not way I was able to put this book down.
All the Bravo's, hell yeah's and as many stars as possible. Hooked. The good news is this is the start of a new series. Superb , interesting characters. some you will like, some you won't. i aways feel like an author has done a great job when you find yourself talking to, arguing with the characters.
Family is everything, until they become a burden, an embarrassment. Some lines should not be crossed.
I am so excited to see where this series will take us. If this is just the start, imagine how epic the series is going to be. 'No pressure'
Emma Tallon has certainly made her name in genre. Way up the top of the list and a must read author for me. I just can't praise her enough and thank her for the many hours of enjoyment I've had reading her books.
Absolute corker of a read.
Emma Tallon has done it again! I intended to start this book and red a chapter or two. Luckily I had a day off work because once started there was not way I was able to put this book down.
All the Bravo's, hell yeah's and as many stars as possible. Hooked. The good news is this is the start of a new series. Superb , interesting characters. some you will like, some you won't. i aways feel like an author has done a great job when you find yourself talking to, arguing with the characters.
Family is everything, until they become a burden, an embarrassment. Some lines should not be crossed.
I am so excited to see where this series will take us. If this is just the start, imagine how epic the series is going to be. 'No pressure'
Emma Tallon has certainly made her name in genre. Way up the top of the list and a must read author for me. I just can't praise her enough and thank her for the many hours of enjoyment I've had reading her books.
Absolute corker of a read.
June 11, 2025
Emma Tallon is one of my favourite authors when it comes to gangland crime and she is fast becoming the queen of the underground. I loved her previous book series - The Tyler Family and The Drew Family Series. I was devastated to say goodbye to them but I’m delighted to have The Capello Family series to dive into. I can see it becoming another series I can totally fall in love with from the storylines to the characters. The Capello Family are yet another family that holds no punches when it comes to their business dealings and shady shenanigans. A huge plus for me is when characters from previous books make appearances. Tallon isn’t afraid to go where you hope she won’t but it certainly adds to the storyline. The Capello Family consists of Sophia, Maria, Alex & Antonia and they definitely have both the likability and unlikeability factor but I can see myself loving them. This was a great read and that ending has me so excited for the next instalment. Just hope it’s not too long to wait.
Thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for the opportunity to read and review #AFamilyBetrayal
Thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for the opportunity to read and review #AFamilyBetrayal
June 25, 2025
Post-Covid there were quite a lot of authors writing gangland crime and the genre was very active, however it has been some time since I have read a good gangland crime book. This author never fails to deliver and she has done a brilliant job with this new book. Not only do we have some great male characters ranging from the nasty to the helpful, we also have some amazing, strong female characters involved. This is the type of characters that I love in gangland crime. Yes there is sex and violence but that is normal for this fiction genre but what a journey the story takes you on. I loved it and think it is one of the best UK gangland crime books out there so do add it to your collection.. As this is the first book in a new series, I cannot wait to see further books in the series published.
Many thanks to Bookoture, NetGalley and the author for providing me with an electronic advanced copy of the book in return for an honest and unbiased review.
The book will be released on the 30th June and will be available in e-book and paperback formats
Many thanks to Bookoture, NetGalley and the author for providing me with an electronic advanced copy of the book in return for an honest and unbiased review.
The book will be released on the 30th June and will be available in e-book and paperback formats
June 30, 2025
An absolute gem of a crime thriller from an author who never disappoints!
We’re introduced to the Capello family—Antonio, Alex, and Maria. But the big question looms: can you ever truly trust those closest to you?
This gripping story dives deep into themes of betrayal, especially when it strikes from within the family. With the death of the mob boss, the gangster underworld is shaken, and it’s up to the next generation to take charge.
Maria juggles life as a lawyer by day and a mob boss by night. Her loyalty to her family runs deep—but when Antonio crosses the line, tensions boil over. With blood ties turning sour, can the Capellos hold together or will everything fall apart?
Family Betrayal is packed with tension and suspense that keeps you on edge until the very last chapter.
The cases are jaw-dropping, the twists relentless. I couldn’t put it down and can’t wait for what comes next.
Outstanding storytelling—absolutely loved it!
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and Emma Tallon for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
We’re introduced to the Capello family—Antonio, Alex, and Maria. But the big question looms: can you ever truly trust those closest to you?
This gripping story dives deep into themes of betrayal, especially when it strikes from within the family. With the death of the mob boss, the gangster underworld is shaken, and it’s up to the next generation to take charge.
Maria juggles life as a lawyer by day and a mob boss by night. Her loyalty to her family runs deep—but when Antonio crosses the line, tensions boil over. With blood ties turning sour, can the Capellos hold together or will everything fall apart?
Family Betrayal is packed with tension and suspense that keeps you on edge until the very last chapter.
The cases are jaw-dropping, the twists relentless. I couldn’t put it down and can’t wait for what comes next.
Outstanding storytelling—absolutely loved it!
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and Emma Tallon for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 3, 2025
Emma Tallon delivers a gripping and addictive read in A Family Betrayal, a crime thriller that pulls you into the dark and dangerous world of a crime family you can’t help but be fascinated by. From the very first chapter, the story grips tight and refuses to let go, with a fast-paced plot and characters that feel as complex as they are captivating.
Tallon does an exceptional job crafting a world where loyalty is tested, betrayal lurks around every corner, and even the most ruthless characters manage to earn your sympathy. The dynamics within the crime family are layered and compelling, drawing readers into their inner circle and making it hard to look away—even when the stakes turn deadly.
The build-up throughout the novel is executed with precision, rich with detail and tension that never lets up. It’s the kind of story that leaves you wanting more, and by the final page, the desire for a sequel is undeniable.
A Family Betrayal is a powerful, character-driven thriller full of suspense, loyalty, and danger—an unmissable read for fans of gritty, high-stakes crime fiction.
Tallon does an exceptional job crafting a world where loyalty is tested, betrayal lurks around every corner, and even the most ruthless characters manage to earn your sympathy. The dynamics within the crime family are layered and compelling, drawing readers into their inner circle and making it hard to look away—even when the stakes turn deadly.
The build-up throughout the novel is executed with precision, rich with detail and tension that never lets up. It’s the kind of story that leaves you wanting more, and by the final page, the desire for a sequel is undeniable.
A Family Betrayal is a powerful, character-driven thriller full of suspense, loyalty, and danger—an unmissable read for fans of gritty, high-stakes crime fiction.
July 5, 2025
When it comes to Gangland Crime Thrillers Emma Tallon is one of my absolute favourite authors in this genre. So of course when I heard she had a brand new series coming out I couldn’t wait to read the first one. I don’t even need to read the blurb all I wanted to do was dive straight into the story. I can categorically state that A Family Betrayal did not disappoint one bit. Based around the Capello Family, Mother Sophia, Brothers Antonio and Alex and their sister Maria. These are the main characters at the core of this series and they will do anything to protect each other. This was a complete page turner and I was captivated right from the very start. I can’t wait to see the characters develop over the course of the series . It was also brilliant to have characters from Emma’s previous books pop up in this one.
If you’re looking for a fast paced and gritty crime thriller you are definitely in for a treat with this one. And judging by the brilliant ending book two is going to be just as good if not better.
If you’re looking for a fast paced and gritty crime thriller you are definitely in for a treat with this one. And judging by the brilliant ending book two is going to be just as good if not better.
June 25, 2025
I started reading this book last night and I’ve just finished it!! WOW what a fantastic read and this is the first in a new series as well! Thanks Netgalley & Hachette uk.
Maria, Alex and Antonio Capello were raised by their gangster father with just one rule: family is everything.
Now he’s dead, Maria works as a lawyer by day and a mob boss by night: risking everything if her secret life is ever revealed.
She trusts her smart, suave, dependable brother, Alex, with her life, but it breaks her heart that she can’t say the same about Antonio. As the black sheep of the family, Antonio is here for a good time, not a long time.
So when the head of another firm visits with news about Antonio causing problems in the grimy underworld of London’s Soho, Maria is furious. Of course she wants to protect her baby brother, but he just made an enemy of one of the deadliest families in London. If she doesn’t act now, all hell will break loose.
Maria, Alex and Antonio Capello were raised by their gangster father with just one rule: family is everything.
Now he’s dead, Maria works as a lawyer by day and a mob boss by night: risking everything if her secret life is ever revealed.
She trusts her smart, suave, dependable brother, Alex, with her life, but it breaks her heart that she can’t say the same about Antonio. As the black sheep of the family, Antonio is here for a good time, not a long time.
So when the head of another firm visits with news about Antonio causing problems in the grimy underworld of London’s Soho, Maria is furious. Of course she wants to protect her baby brother, but he just made an enemy of one of the deadliest families in London. If she doesn’t act now, all hell will break loose.
May 28, 2025
This new series from Emma Tallon was always going to have big shoes to fill, and as a big lover of the Tyler and Drew series, I was eager to start reading.
Maria,Alex, and Antonio Capellos are a force to be reckoned with, but when betrayal rears it's ugly head and Antonio breaks all the rules, how can the family survive and how will they move forward.
A solid storyline that at no time fails to keep the reader engaged and filled with intense drama throughout.
As we've come to expect from Emma the women are both strong and forceful and the stand out characters for me were Cat and Maria,I'm especially looking forward to seeing how Cat's story plays out along the way.
Book 2 is sure to be a cracker, and I can't wait.
And by the way, this new series filled them shoes perfectly.
Thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for the ARC.
Maria,Alex, and Antonio Capellos are a force to be reckoned with, but when betrayal rears it's ugly head and Antonio breaks all the rules, how can the family survive and how will they move forward.
A solid storyline that at no time fails to keep the reader engaged and filled with intense drama throughout.
As we've come to expect from Emma the women are both strong and forceful and the stand out characters for me were Cat and Maria,I'm especially looking forward to seeing how Cat's story plays out along the way.
Book 2 is sure to be a cracker, and I can't wait.
And by the way, this new series filled them shoes perfectly.
Thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for the ARC.
June 27, 2025
Emma Tallon did it again. Another mafia with great family ties but also dysfunctional. Also set in London. We also get to see the Tyler's and the Drew's from her other Crime Thriller series.
This one starts with the Capellos , Marie, Alex and Antonio who are working their fathers business after he had died.
also we meet Cat and her daughter. Cat's dad just died and she had told her husband she wanted a divorce and kicked him out of their home. But the next day she finds out there was a new will, from her dad, leaving everything to her husband and she gets nothing. So since she has nothing she gets a job working for the Capellos mom. She also will fight to find out about this will.
I really liked Maria, Alex and their mom but Antonio is a horrible person who gets away with to much.
Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley for the book to review,
This one starts with the Capellos , Marie, Alex and Antonio who are working their fathers business after he had died.
also we meet Cat and her daughter. Cat's dad just died and she had told her husband she wanted a divorce and kicked him out of their home. But the next day she finds out there was a new will, from her dad, leaving everything to her husband and she gets nothing. So since she has nothing she gets a job working for the Capellos mom. She also will fight to find out about this will.
I really liked Maria, Alex and their mom but Antonio is a horrible person who gets away with to much.
Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley for the book to review,
July 2, 2025
Yes! Emma is back with a new exciting book called A Family Betrayal by Emma Tallon and I loved it, it's the first book in the new The Capello Family Series and it was excellent, totally addictive and absolutely gripping crime thriller with a jaw-dropping twist which was brilliant!
Every book I have read by Emma has been a 5⭐️ read and this one was no different. Emma is one of the best authors to read if you love Gangland crimes books, she has away of telling a great story which will have your gripped from the beginning till the very end which is always full of excellent twists and turns throughout with great characters you will love or dislike - but they always play a great part of every book or series she has written.
This book was No different another 5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ read. I highly recommend this author 👀
Every book I have read by Emma has been a 5⭐️ read and this one was no different. Emma is one of the best authors to read if you love Gangland crimes books, she has away of telling a great story which will have your gripped from the beginning till the very end which is always full of excellent twists and turns throughout with great characters you will love or dislike - but they always play a great part of every book or series she has written.
This book was No different another 5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ read. I highly recommend this author 👀
May 23, 2025
Book 1 in the Capello family
W.O W what a fantastic start to a new series. With the Capello family, I was hooked!! I loved getting to know the characters and snippets into their lives.. Alex/Antonio, the brothers, Maria, their sister, and Sophia, their mom.. when Cats dad sadley passes away, the family business would be left to her, BUT the company and all the assets including Cat and her daughter Orlas home and car have been left to Greg her ex partner, why??? Would her father have left them with nothing? They were his world.. A chance meeting in a cemetery may change cats predicament, with the Capellos help, can she re gain what is rightfully hers?? It's tense,, action packed highly recommend 5 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 read from me
W.O W what a fantastic start to a new series. With the Capello family, I was hooked!! I loved getting to know the characters and snippets into their lives.. Alex/Antonio, the brothers, Maria, their sister, and Sophia, their mom.. when Cats dad sadley passes away, the family business would be left to her, BUT the company and all the assets including Cat and her daughter Orlas home and car have been left to Greg her ex partner, why??? Would her father have left them with nothing? They were his world.. A chance meeting in a cemetery may change cats predicament, with the Capellos help, can she re gain what is rightfully hers?? It's tense,, action packed highly recommend 5 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 read from me
May 24, 2025
A cracker of a new crime thriller from this author that never let's me down.
We meet the Capello family, Antonio, Alex and Maria.
Can you really trust the people close to you.
Betrayal cuts deep, when it comes from within the family.
The Gangster underworld as the mob boss is dead, it's time for the next generation to step up.
Maria working as a lawyer through the day, and a mob boss at night, her family is everything, and now Antonio has broken the rules leaving bad blood, can the Capellos survive.
A Family Betrayal has you on the edge of your seat right till the closing chapter.
Mind-blowing cases and chapters.
Nobody messes around and I'm now eager for more.
Exceptional excellence and above all loved it!!
We meet the Capello family, Antonio, Alex and Maria.
Can you really trust the people close to you.
Betrayal cuts deep, when it comes from within the family.
The Gangster underworld as the mob boss is dead, it's time for the next generation to step up.
Maria working as a lawyer through the day, and a mob boss at night, her family is everything, and now Antonio has broken the rules leaving bad blood, can the Capellos survive.
A Family Betrayal has you on the edge of your seat right till the closing chapter.
Mind-blowing cases and chapters.
Nobody messes around and I'm now eager for more.
Exceptional excellence and above all loved it!!
June 29, 2025
I loved Emma Tallon’s previous books and this is a brilliant start to a new series.
The book centres around the Capello family, and as with her other books, their family business is one of crime.
Maria is also a lawyer but works closely with her two brothers, Alex and Antonio.
She meets a woman at a graveside who looks distraught and offers her a job helping her mother who has recently had a fall.
Cat has just lost her father, her family home and the family business, and really appreciates Maria’s help.
Things don’t go as smoothly as planned and soon Maria and Alex are trying to save their business from a destructive force within.
I loved this book and can’t wait to read the next one.
Thanks to Bookouture for the opportunity to read this book.
The book centres around the Capello family, and as with her other books, their family business is one of crime.
Maria is also a lawyer but works closely with her two brothers, Alex and Antonio.
She meets a woman at a graveside who looks distraught and offers her a job helping her mother who has recently had a fall.
Cat has just lost her father, her family home and the family business, and really appreciates Maria’s help.
Things don’t go as smoothly as planned and soon Maria and Alex are trying to save their business from a destructive force within.
I loved this book and can’t wait to read the next one.
Thanks to Bookouture for the opportunity to read this book.
July 20, 2025
I enjoyed this book so much that I couldn't put it down and finished it in just two days. It's an exciting new installment in the series, following the Capello family, a notorious gangland family. The story centers around Sophia, the matriarch, and her three children: Maria, Antonio, and Alex.
From the very beginning, the book immerses you in a world of crime, and it doesn’t take long before the tension gives you goosebumps.
This book is action-packed from start to finish and is truly a whirlwind of excitement.
I always know when I pick up one of Emma's books that it's going to be a thrilling gangland adventure.
From the very beginning, the book immerses you in a world of crime, and it doesn’t take long before the tension gives you goosebumps.
This book is action-packed from start to finish and is truly a whirlwind of excitement.
I always know when I pick up one of Emma's books that it's going to be a thrilling gangland adventure.
May 25, 2025
We have a new series, and what a story it is! You'll be hooked from the very first page. Meet the Capello family—Antonio, Alex, and Maria. They're ruthless but fiercely protective of their own. Maria is a talented lawyer by day and a mafia boss by night. One brother is good, the other is bad, and this is their gripping story. I absolutely can't wait for book two!
May 30, 2025
Tallon begins a new crime family drama - an excellent beginning to my next addiction.
Family betrayal on all sides mixed with a terrifying matriarch, male ego, strong women and found family. Very excited to see where this series will go!
LOVE the references to the Drew family still bummed that series ended.
Family betrayal on all sides mixed with a terrifying matriarch, male ego, strong women and found family. Very excited to see where this series will go!
LOVE the references to the Drew family still bummed that series ended.
July 7, 2025
Maria, Alex and Antonio run their company firm together, while one of them is a loose cannon. Family is everything, but what happens when one of the family is liable to destroy everything they've worked so hard to build?
This is the first book in the Capello family series, and I'm so excited to see what's in store in the next book.
I thoroughly enjoyed this, and can't recommend it enough!
This is the first book in the Capello family series, and I'm so excited to see what's in store in the next book.
I thoroughly enjoyed this, and can't recommend it enough!
Read
July 12, 2025Another addictive book from Emma Tallon and a brand new family to get to know, the inclusion of past characters was brief and possibly we can get more interaction in the next book, i think a storyline involving Maria and Scarlet could be good and while I know the author has moved on to a new series, She could plan a hiest that brings them together for one book.
November 29, 2025
I love Emma’s books and was excited to read this new book about the Capello family. Maria is a lawyer and her two brothers run the family business. Being a lawyer is a perfect way to help her brothers but to keep her upstanding career a good cover to get many important strings to her bow. This is a good start into what looks to be another great series from Emma.
July 1, 2025
I'm ashamed to say this is my venture into Tallon's crime thrillers. My partner raves over the 'Girl' series, so I figured it was time to see what all the fuss was about...she's good isn't she?
It's the first in a new series and I can't wait to read the next installment. It's fast, furious and absolutely fabulous!
Gritty, gripping and gangland all the way...it's time to meet the Capello's for the first time...as with all good gangland thrillers family is everything.
It's the first in a new series and I can't wait to read the next installment. It's fast, furious and absolutely fabulous!
Gritty, gripping and gangland all the way...it's time to meet the Capello's for the first time...as with all good gangland thrillers family is everything.
July 31, 2025
Great book
Loved this book for its twists and turns. It is a great read and maybe the best series yet. It's unpredictable story line definitely held my interest. Can't wait for the next book in the series.
Loved this book for its twists and turns. It is a great read and maybe the best series yet. It's unpredictable story line definitely held my interest. Can't wait for the next book in the series.
October 16, 2025
Thank you to Netgalley for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Yet another fantastic read from the fabulous Emma Tallon. Full of thrills, excitement and suspense. Recommended.
Yet another fantastic read from the fabulous Emma Tallon. Full of thrills, excitement and suspense. Recommended.
June 29, 2025
I forgot how much I love the gangland crime genre this book was so good and I can't wait for book 2 this is my 1st book by this author but I know she has plenty others so I'll be checking them out
July 5, 2025
A great start to a fabulous new series!
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