Falling for a Santini

The Santinis #7

by Melissa Schroeder

A crush that turned into love.

Being the only girl in a family with five Santini brothers was never easy on Elena Santini. She always tried to be faster and smarter to make sure they always took her seriously. They were always trying to tell her what to do, and worse, who she could date. That’s why falling for her oldest brother’s best friend wasn’t smart especially when he treats her like a sister. That is, until she gets him alone in her apartment one night.

One night in Heaven.

NCIS agent Jethro Thomas, known to everyone as JT, has always played it smart. When his admiration turned to attraction a few years ago, he started avoiding Elena. A guy wasn’t supposed to have those kinds of thoughts about his best friend’s little sister. After returning from an undercover assignment, and about to go on another one, he can’t seem to resist the temptation. One night with her and he knows he’s lost, but he has a job to do.

A changed man.

JT returns from the assignment with a few more scars, both physical and emotional–but he survived for one reason. He’s ready to start a new life with Elena, but a dark cloud hangs over the new love. When small incidents evolve into near death accidents, JT realizes someone from his past is ready to destroy his happiness, even harm Elena to make him pay.

Genres: Military Fiction, Romance, Contemporary Romance, Erotica, Contemporary, Romantic Suspense, Erotic Romance

185 pages, ebook

First published December 22, 2014

About the author

USA Today bestselling author Melissa Schroeder has had almost 90 short stories, novellas, and novels published in the last 15 years.

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Reviews

[Janet Rodman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Falling For A Santini
Melissa Schroeder
Being the only girl in a family of five brothers, what's a girl to do? She becomes a marine pilot. Elena Santini had to work hard to keep up with the military men in her family. And she was in love with her older brother Anthony's best friend.
Jethro Francis Thomas is a NCIS undercover agent. He had known the Santini family forever and is even considered an "honorary" Santini. Years earlier, during a 21st birthday party, Elena gives JT a big, sloppy kiss, "it had shattered his world." Now years later, he is bringing a "drunken" Elena back to her apartment. Once inside, she gives him a big kiss. At first he tries to resist. One thing leads to another and they spend the weekend making love. They realize it is a little deeper that just sex. JT didn't want to hide their relationship, but Elena did. He wanted more from her. Unfortunately, he was going under deep cover in an investigation and wouldn't be able to contact her. Elena promised more time together when he returned from his assignment. She also realized she was in love with him.
JT returns from his assignment to take up where they left off. This particular assignment was tougher to deal with because it involved fellow soldiers. He also had plenty of time to think. JT wanted Elena in his future. Now to convince her, and then deal with her brothers.
Throw in two murder attempts, finding out that the undercover assignment is not truly tied up, a fistfight with a brother, a pregnancy announcement and two people finding the love of their lives, you have one fantastic story.
I really enjoyed this story. The dynamic between Elena and her brothers is both funny and heartwarming. Elena's character is straight forward and honest and I like how when she set her mind to go after JT, nothing was going to stop her. JT has had non sisterly feelings for Elena since her twenty first birthday. Once he brings her home one night, and she plants one on him, he is a goner. JT is best friends with Anthony, Elena's oldest brother. Anthony freaks out when he thinks JT "deflowered" his younger sister and feels he must defend her honor by fighting with JT. The dialog between the two as they resolve the fact that JT is indeed in love with Elena, had me laughing. The secondary characters in this story really give us an insight into the relationships within the Santini family. I look forward to the next book in this series and I highly recommend this story.

[Dana · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been trying for almost a week to write this review. I have loved all the Santini books so far but this one is going to be my new favorite. I love how Elena knows what she wants and just goes for it and then JT, he is trying so hard not to fall for his best friend Anthony's sister. Their story is told so well. It is a great book and I highly recommend it. And after seeing all Elena's brothers in this book I can't wait to read their stories. It is hinted at in the book that Elena took after her mother and went after what she wanted, I would love to read her parents story too. Thank you Melissa for continuing the Santini series. I love all her books but the Santini's hold a special place in my kindle :) I highly recommend reading this book and the entire series. Falling for a Santini

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Santini’s are a big raucous close knit family most of whom are honored to serve in the US armed forces. Even the only girl, Elena, is a Marine piolet. Elena has crushed on her big brothers best friend JT since she was twelve. She isn’t twelve anymore and JT is quickly finding that out. Once the clothes come off he can never go back. He needs Elena like his next breath even if it means falling out of favor with his best bud and the family that saved him from himself.
This is the 7th in the series (and may just be the hottest yet) but it can be read stand-alone. The author gives you enough background on what has happened previously without it seeming like you are re-reading the other books and so you know the relationships. Falling for a Santini is a wonderfully sweet and sexy read. It starts out hot and as Elena & JT fall deeper for each other it gets hotter. And for comic relief you have her brothers.

[Jessica Alcazar · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is my favorite so far of the Santini series!

Elena is a force to be reckoned with and JT was her perfect match!

Elena happens to be the younger sister of his best friend. That puts her off limits. Until it doesn't. They're both attracted to each other, and clearly the way to solve that issue is to have one night of unbridled passion and leave it at that. Because that always works (lol)

There's a lot going on in this story and it makes it a page turner you just will not want to put down. From misunderstandings to family butting to a little bit of suspense but most of all, the chemistry these two produce will burn the pages of your reader! #TRUST

[Susan (susayq ~) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am absolutely loving these Satini family books! I love the family dynamics :)

This was Elena's story. She fell in love with her oldest brother's best friend and she finally gets him in this book. I thought the suspense part went a little too fast, but I was ok with that cause I really enjoyed reading about the family and Elena and JT.

ARC provided by the publisher via Netgalley

[Sheryl C. Nash]

*NETGALLEY*

[Dar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Having just finished the previous book in the series the night before, I was extremely curious how the Elena and JT story had started. This doesn't shirk, it starts right from their moment together and carries through from there.

This book made me laugh, made me tear up, not cry, and made me cheer for both Elena and JT. Two more perfect people for each other probably don't exist. They both have large and strong personalities, but compliment, rather than crash, against each other

Sometimes the best friends little sister trope has unwarranted drama and hurt. This does it perfectly and suits the adults that the lovers and friends are for each other!

[Joyfully Reviewed · Rating 4 out of 5]

Captain Elena Santini, a Marine Corps Raptor pilot is living the life she’d dreamed of and set her sights on through her own intelligence and hard work. With five elder brothers, one her twin, Elena has learned how to deal with the fragile male ego in her family and on base. The only negative in her full life is the lack of someone special.

NCIS special agent Jethro ‘JT’ Thomas is at the top of his field in undercover work. When he’s not on assignment JT spends time with his best friend Anthony Santini and the rest of the family. In fact he’s now considered an honorary Santini which suits him fine since his own childhood was a nightmare.

From the time Elena was a teenager there’s been an undeniable chemistry between them, but JT refused to act on it. By the time she was an adult he did his best to steer clear completely because you don’t poach your best friend’s sister. The day finally arrives when Elena takes matters into her own hands leaving JT helpless to deny her. They keep their relationship on the quiet prior to another undercover assignment JT is sent on. Ironically it’s his absence that makes the family aware something is going on. Coming home brings about several changes for the lovers, including the feeling that something from JT’s past has caught up with him. Battling touchy brothers may prove easier than a stranger with a vendetta. Maybe.

At last it is time for the youngest to shine in Falling for a Santini. Fans and new readers alike will enjoy reading about Elena’s rocky romance and ultimate love in this testosterone fueled series. Author Melissa Schroeder pens a realistic love story with all the family angst and drama readers expect while steamy hot encounters add the necessary spice. Falling for a Santini gives a charming voice to the lone female sibling in this exciting storyline. Elena and JT have their time at last.

Reviewed by Lisa for Joyfully Reviewed
Link: http://bit.ly/1HCLHsx

[Deana-Coffee, Books, Life Blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

https://coffeebookslifeblog.wordpress...


4.5 Stars

Elena Santini is just that, a Santini. Proud, confident and brave. A beautiful and sexy woman serving her country as a marine pilot. As bold as any of her brothers, Elena creates an opportunity putting herself in a position to get what she wants. Little did she know she was going to get more than she was asking for.

NCIS agent Jethro “JT” Thomas has a personality that just makes you like him. Loyal, funny and caring the honorary Santini will charm your heart. His job puts his life in danger, but wanting his best friends little sister has his head on the block. Being known for his cool and collected manor, JT gives into temptation that he has been avoiding for years and falls hard.

It’s no secret that my favorite book family is the Santini’s. A family who are proud and honored to serve on many branches of the Armed Forces. Close doesn’t begin to describe the relationships between the Santini siblings, cousins and medley mothers. My favorite thing about the Santini’s is their curse. When a Santini man finds the woman for him, he falls and he falls hard. Melissa Schroeder has made me laugh on more than one occasion it watching these big,strong, military men get twisted over the one they love. Now we see how Elena Santini, the only female of family falls.

Chemistry, passion and loving deep. That’s what the Santini’s are about. Elena and JT were a true treat for the lovers of the Santini family. Their passion built for years and proving they were perfect for each other. Through humor, longing, lust and passion we see the Santini curse hit once again. Falling For A Santini quickly became my favorite book of the series.

A complementary copy of this book was provided by the author/publisher for an honest review.

[Simply Love Book Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

Slick‘s review posted on Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews

4 STARS

Review copy provided for an honest review


I always admire women who grow up in a house full of males mainly because I remember how my sister and I use to torture out little brother so Elena Santini gets extra stars in my book for putting up with a houseful of brothers especially when she developed feelings early on for her oldest brother’s best friend, the one her entire family considered well…family. Older, wiser, and knowing exactly what she wants Elena pulls out all the stops to show Jethro (JT) Thomas she’s not a little girl anymore.
I flat out LOVED Elena and the fact that she went after JT with everything that she had and made the first move. I respected that when he backed away she let him because she refused to be that clingy woman who can’t take no for an answer and I admire her for giving JT a second chance when he decided he wanted exactly what she was willing to give. This couple has chemistry in spades and they have no problems sharing what they want or exploring what feels good and right to them both.
As an NCIS agent JT must leave on assignment but with these two absence make the heart grow fonder and makes them both face up to what they want from one another. That’s not to say it is easy because Elena is the only girl and her brother’s aren’t above letting JT know just what they think about their relationship.
It is so hard not to love this series and this family; sure at times they can be overbearing, pigheaded, and give your reason to want to strangle them but in the end it is all about the love they share and the happiness they want for each other.
Smart, funny, and sexy Falling for a Santini is another fine installment in the Santini family saga by Melissa Schroeder.

[Latochia Hawkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Falling for a Santini is definitely a Winner!

The Santini Saga continues with the first female born into the clan! And Melissa Schroeder did not disappoint in her story!
Elena Santini was introduced in her twin brother's story of "A Santini in Love" but we truly were able to see how strong and independent she was in her own story. She also took on the impossible of going after the "forbidden" love.
Jethro "JT" Thomas was best friends with the oldest Santini brother and thought of as an honorary family member. So falling in love with his best friend's sister was not in the cards. Unfortunately, the heart is not always something that can be controlled.
The story of Elena and JT is different from the other Santinis to date because JT was so close to the family. It brought together the other brothers and their protective sides. It also showed how much Elena had to protect herself around them while also allowing them to take care of her.
The family dynamics are strong and they come together when things are bad.
Elena and JT were definitely a powerful couple within the Santini bunch. While they had scenes that were filled with heat and love they also had to learn what was going to work between them. They were both in the military, so their obligations were going to pull them in seperate directions, but the groundwork for the change had been made and it is going to be fun to see things progress in future books.

[LJT · Rating 4 out of 5]

Falling for a Santini, is the seventh story in a series of novellas about love and life in the military by Melissa Schroeder. Each novella focuses on a member of the Santini family, and this time around Elena Santini is the one having the romantic adventure. Elena is a spunky marine pilot, who is surrounded by five, over protective brothers. She is able to handle anything that comes her way, with the exception of her feelings toward Jethro Thomas, or JT. JT is her oldest brother's best friend and an NCIS operative.

This novella is a terrific addition to the older brother's best friend romance trope. JT has been best friends with Anthony Santini for years. In fact, he is considered an honorary brother by the entire Santini clan. When Anthony learns about Elena and JT's relationship, he becomes almost maniacal, and gives JT a split lip in the process. However, once he sees how much in love they truly are, he is able to deal with the situation a little more gracefully.

To begin with, the cover of this book is hot, which personifies the relationship between Elena and JT to a T. They are a passionate couple and I really liked how cleverly Ms. Schroeder brought them together in the first chapter. Their sex scenes are both sexy and loving.

If you are looking for a quick read with a little suspense, some brotherly love and a heroic couple, get yourself a copy of this book.

Complimentary copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley.

[The Smutty Kitty · Rating 4 out of 5]

As posted on The Smutty Kitty reviewed by KittyKelly

4 out of 5 Licks

I’m so happy we didn’t have to wait too long for Elena’s HEA. She finally gets JT into her bed, but sadly he is going for another undercover assignment so they make the most of the weekend they have together. When he returns he can’t think of anything other than getting back to her as soon as possible. Little do they know that danger is lurking. Both of them are afraid to admit to the other how strong their feelings are and it now might be too late. I really enjoyed this Santini tale. This family is so much fun to be around and Elena has all the men wrapped around her finger. It’s quite entertaining to see her family’s reactions to her relationship. We even get to sneak a peek at some of the others in the crew and see how they are doing. The majority of the conflict in this one stems from lack of communication between Elena and JT. It gets quite serious though in the end when Elena is attacked and has to protect herself and her sister-in-law. I’m glad JT and Elena get their shit together in the end-sometimes it takes a big scare to get stubborn people to admit their feelings.

[Heather andrews · Rating 5 out of 5]

This one is my favorite out of the series Elena is a force to be reckoned with and JT was her perfect match and with a drunk Elena and a sober JT make for an entertaining scene, "it was his turn to blink. She was talking about a movie, and her was trying to figure out if she was wearing a bra with a front clasp or not." These two are passionate people apart but when together it's like a damn bomb went off especially months without seeing each other, "he kissed her, slamming the door shut with his foot and fumbling with the lock as she tore at his clothes." Sometimes JT needs to squash Elena's naughty fantasies with reality, "we would never eaten. And while the apron does protect me a bit, I'm not to keen on having my important bits around a hot stove." That means no naked cooking unless she wants her man's sausage to be burnt. I'm really looking forward to Anthony's book he seems like a thunderstorm waiting to descend on a unsuspecting woman.

[Bobbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just love these Santini books that Melissa Schroeder has been writing for some time now. We have brothers, and cousins, and good friends who are all military in some shape and form. This story is about Elena, who is Dante's twin ( From her last book, A Santini in Love). Being the only girl surrounded by all boys, Elena is determined to keep up with the boys. She becomes a kickass Marine and falls for her older brother, Anthony, best friend, TJ. This is their story and it is a rocky one. TJ works for NCIS, and as an aside, Melissa named him Jethro, I hope as homage to Jethro on NCIS tv show. He also is trying to live by the "best friend Bro" code and dating Anthony's younger sister should be a no-no. But you know they will get their HEA anyway as Melissa always makes her books enjoyable! Can't imagine anyone not enjoying these books

[Lynne Costa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the story of Jethro Thomas and Elena Santini and it was a couldn't put down read.Elena is JT's best friends little sister who he has stayed away from being anything more than friends for years till the night he drives her home because he thinks she is drunk.He tries to not get involved with her but he has had feelings for her a long time now and even though they agree that it will only be for one night,independently they each realize they want more.JT promptly goes off on an undercover assignment for NCIS so there is no contact between then until he returns a few months later.Elena is excited & relieved and they begin again as if they were never apart.There is danger,misunderstanding,family butting in and love between these two that jumps off the pages at you.You can never go wrong with a Santini story & this one does not disappoint.It is a must read.

[Karen Roma · Rating 5 out of 5]

When you read a Santini novel you fall in love with not only the hero/heroine, but also their extended family and the brilliance of an author who can pen such enthralling tales.

I always find myself glued to the pages; totally captivated by the depth of personalities portrayed, complexity of their lives and their ability to love unconditionally no matter what the circumstances.

When your name is Santini, family is paramount to all that you are, and Melissa Schroeder has again provided readers with a riveting tale surrounding the unbreakable bond they share and the people who worship and adore them.

I’m so glad there are still many more Santinis to come!!

[Anne · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book in exchange for an honest review.

I am a huge fan of Melissa Schroeder’s Santini series. This story fits right in with the others, a great combination of military romance, a little action mixed with steaming loving. The perfect best friend falls for little sister tale, JT and Elena are made for each other. Their chemistry jumps off the page and it doesn’t take long to see they belong together even as they struggle with their own feelings. Plus, the added dynamic of large, loving yet overbearing family is priceless.

I can’t wait to see what Melissa’s has planned for the next Santini.

[Eniko · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is another example of why I love Ms. Schroeder's writing. I am happy that Elena's story got told, a strong woman goes after what she wants. And she wants TJ, the man she fell in love years ago. I love the closeness of the Santini family, the protective streak all Santini men have and the strength of the Santini women. It takes a special woman to marry and live the life with a military man. This story is special because Elena herself is a military pilot and she understands what it entails, the courage, the honour, the sacrifice to fight for what is right.
Recommending this and all the other books in the series with 5 stars.

[Chrissy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another HOT ROMANCE Got to love these Hot Marines and NCIS Agents.... This story is about the Elena Santini and don't worry, her lovely Hot brothers make appearances...... Elena falls in love with her childhood friend and NCIS Agent JT well, he doesn't want to get involved with who because he is friends with her brothers and he is an honorary Santini, but all that changes in one night....

This is another fabulous read by the talented Melissa Schroeder.... You will see romance, well sparks fly really and action this is such a great book, this is a must read book...... The Santini's are a must read..... You will love this book....

10 plus stars Get yours today!!!

[Catherine Edwards · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book in a great series

I love this series and this book is more of the same: outstanding! The plot is typical: girl falls in love with older brother's best friend. What happens next is anything but. Just like all the other books in this series, this book stands alone, but save yourself the hassle. Buy them all. Spend a couple days, and read them all. Check, I'm rereading the Johnson series, then the whole Santini series. I don't know how long I have to wait until the next book in this series comes out. Gotta maintain my addiction.

I received a copy from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review.

[Becky · Rating 4 out of 5]

Elena and TJ are an awesome couple! Friendship, romance, danger, love, HEA. This story has it all. I am in love with the Santini's as a whole...Melissa Schroeder is an amazing story teller. The Santini's are a story you will want to read and re-read. Who doesn't love hot military men with a strong family and who find their soul mates. Elena is the only girl sibling, she is one tough marine. These books would be perfect if they were longer and had an epilogue . I need more Santini's!!!! All these books can be read as a standalone, but with crossover characters it would benefit the reader to have read everyone's story involved.

[Darcy · Rating 3 out of 5]

I loved how this one opened, how Elena finally went for what she wanted in JT. Even better was how JT reacted, holding back until finally he grabbed for what he wanted in Elena.

I sort of expected more of a conflict with the couple, instead it was pretty smooth sailing for them other than the Elena's brothers, actually on in particular. I get why Anthony was upset with JT, but he should know his sister better and trust her.

I did like how this one ended, loved how JT spilled his guts unknowingly in front of the Santini clan, his words winning them all over.

[Diane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Elena has grown up in a family of boys and being a Santini she has always tried to out do them. She has been in love with JT for many years but thought that he didn't see her as anything but his best friends sister.

JT has noticed Elena for a while and has fought his attraction for a while. When one night things happen the sparks fly. They can't fight it anymore.

With humor and suspense this story shows that even an honorary Santini can still be struck by the Santini curse.

I was given a copy of the book in exchange for a honest review.

[Anima · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series is one of my favorites, a huge military family with amazing hearts. Elena, a Marine pilot, has crushed on J.T. for years, her brother's best friend and off limits. Their love is natural and electrifying. J.T. has an undercover case that just got heated. Love the little bit of mystery and suspense Schroeder puts in her stories. You really should read all Santini books because they are just a crazy group, but since each is a different couple they are standalone books. Enjoy the ride because there are always more Santinis. My copy was given by the author for an honest review.

[Vanessa Duncan · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW!

I was very excited to read Elena & JT's story! Elena is the only girl & baby of this Santini family....but she wasn't going let that stop her from going after the man she's always wanted even if she knew her brothers might not agree!

JT can't resist Elena's passes any longer so he gives her what they both desperately want, and he knows when her brother Anthony finds out all hell may break loose. I loved this book! It was suspenseful and funny and a must read!

Melissa did another great job! I'm ready for the next book!

[Courtney Wade · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was amazing. Friend falling for best friends sister and then add in suspense and perfection. Jt has always been attracted to Elena but always kept his space until one night changes it all. The book was well written and funny in parts as well. Throw in some santini antics and it was great. Love it when little sister always puts big brother in his place. I also love it when you see old characters in new books. Thank you mrs Schroeder for another awesome read...keep em coming. :)

[Gina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Elena is one kick ass marine!!! JT of course is super HOT as all Mel's heroes are but in this story my favorite character is Elena. Elena is intelligent, bossy, tough and determined and a badass pilot, most certainly a character to look up to! This is one hot story with a fantastic strong couple and my absolute favorite Santini book to date.....a total must read!!

[Samantha · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is my second Santinis novel and I insanely enjoyed Elena and JT like I did Dante and Madison. Elena has made her move on JT in the last story and hasn't regretted it. Now they have to deal with their feeling for each other, their careers, and case loads they thought were over.

It was a good story and it was intriguing to read. I love how tough Elena is and you have to love her brothers.

[Traci Lamothe · Rating 5 out of 5]

wow. love the Santinis

Wow Elena and TJ story is one that will have you saying wow. Melissa is awesome.
Elena and TJ will keep you laughing. I love how she talks to him. One of my favorite books