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Second Chance Series #1
Demarco's World: A Second Chance For Love
****BE WARNED**** This work of fiction was written for an adult audience. There are lots of hot sex scenes and adult language.
In 2006, Allegra Thomas met a handsome foreign student, Gianluca Demarco in a coffee shop in Manhattan, and they embarked on a blissful two-year relationship. However, when pressing family matters required his presence, Gianluca went home to Florence, Italy … without Allegra.
Eight years later, Demarco International has acquired the company where Allegra Thomas works. Even after so many years, Allegra is still hurt. She wants to punish him for leaving her behind, but her body wants to welcome him home.
Sometimes, Love is better the second time around—if you can survive the pitfalls.
Excerpt from DEMARCO’S WORLD: A SECOND CHANCE FOR LOVE
Gianluca entered the bedroom. The bed was made and Allegra was not in it. He walked through to the en-suite bathroom, removed his clothes, and entered the shower. Standing still, he allowed the warm water to soothe his tired muscles. Not tonight, Bella, I am too tired for this sh*t.
Finally, he turned the water off, toweled his skin, and slipped into his pajama bottoms. He left the room.
Entering the first guest room, he flipped the switch. Allegra was lying in bed, the covers lying on the floor. Caspita! I cannot believe she still owns those monstrosity masquerading as pajamas, he thought.
She opened her eyes. “What are you doing in here, Luca?”
“Let us get one thing straight, sweetheart. We will not be sleeping in separate beds under this roof. When we have issues, we will discuss them like adults. This garbage of running off to another bed, I will not tolerate. Now, move over. I am sleeping on this side of the bed.”
**** Word Count over 100,000****
In 2006, Allegra Thomas met a handsome foreign student, Gianluca Demarco in a coffee shop in Manhattan, and they embarked on a blissful two-year relationship. However, when pressing family matters required his presence, Gianluca went home to Florence, Italy … without Allegra.
Eight years later, Demarco International has acquired the company where Allegra Thomas works. Even after so many years, Allegra is still hurt. She wants to punish him for leaving her behind, but her body wants to welcome him home.
Sometimes, Love is better the second time around—if you can survive the pitfalls.
Excerpt from DEMARCO’S WORLD: A SECOND CHANCE FOR LOVE
Gianluca entered the bedroom. The bed was made and Allegra was not in it. He walked through to the en-suite bathroom, removed his clothes, and entered the shower. Standing still, he allowed the warm water to soothe his tired muscles. Not tonight, Bella, I am too tired for this sh*t.
Finally, he turned the water off, toweled his skin, and slipped into his pajama bottoms. He left the room.
Entering the first guest room, he flipped the switch. Allegra was lying in bed, the covers lying on the floor. Caspita! I cannot believe she still owns those monstrosity masquerading as pajamas, he thought.
She opened her eyes. “What are you doing in here, Luca?”
“Let us get one thing straight, sweetheart. We will not be sleeping in separate beds under this roof. When we have issues, we will discuss them like adults. This garbage of running off to another bed, I will not tolerate. Now, move over. I am sleeping on this side of the bed.”
**** Word Count over 100,000****
396 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 7, 2015
96 people are currently reading
78 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
August 18, 2015
Hmmm
I rated this book three stars because the characters relationship was developed well in the prologue. I immediately started rooting for their love. However great the hero and heroin were the flow of the story was random and hadr to follow at times. There were several intriguing situations such as family not supporting relationship,alpha male with a stubborn woman, psycho exes, tragedies. The issue I have is all the angst and drama were resolved too neatly to be believed. I will recommend to readers who like to support new indie author's. If one can look beyond editing errors and can respect where the author was attempting to lead the story this is for you. I'd you hate editing errors no matter if the author is new then I suggest you wait until this author has more titles. I can see the promise of miss ward's writing and I encourage her to keep them coming.,,
I rated this book three stars because the characters relationship was developed well in the prologue. I immediately started rooting for their love. However great the hero and heroin were the flow of the story was random and hadr to follow at times. There were several intriguing situations such as family not supporting relationship,alpha male with a stubborn woman, psycho exes, tragedies. The issue I have is all the angst and drama were resolved too neatly to be believed. I will recommend to readers who like to support new indie author's. If one can look beyond editing errors and can respect where the author was attempting to lead the story this is for you. I'd you hate editing errors no matter if the author is new then I suggest you wait until this author has more titles. I can see the promise of miss ward's writing and I encourage her to keep them coming.,,
March 30, 2016
A new fan for Ms. Ward!
I love second chance romances and this one was very well done. It was nice that the heroine was a Caribbean island girl and the secondary cast of characters really stood out and I'm hoping for some sequels featuring them! *crosses fingers*
The editing and technical writing was on point and I have no complaints in that quarter. I'd definitely recommend this book!
I love second chance romances and this one was very well done. It was nice that the heroine was a Caribbean island girl and the secondary cast of characters really stood out and I'm hoping for some sequels featuring them! *crosses fingers*
The editing and technical writing was on point and I have no complaints in that quarter. I'd definitely recommend this book!
August 19, 2015
Quick review no long draw out one this time.
This book was very good and the author provided very detail descriptions of each and every location in the book... and to be quite honest... I skimmed every one of those detailed because it was just tooooo detailed and after a while I just shoulder shrugged and moved on.
I loved the characters in the book, esp Gianluca aka Luca. He was Alpha male of course but the soft spot he held for Allegra made me love him even more. He was tough with everyone but her but still firm when he needed to be. I also enjoyed the families and friend. It was a perfect blend of all of them together.
I honestly didn't feel sorry for nicoletta at all....not even a little bit but I was a bit shocked at the outcome.. all I could say was WOW.
This book was very good and the author provided very detail descriptions of each and every location in the book... and to be quite honest... I skimmed every one of those detailed because it was just tooooo detailed and after a while I just shoulder shrugged and moved on.
I loved the characters in the book, esp Gianluca aka Luca. He was Alpha male of course but the soft spot he held for Allegra made me love him even more. He was tough with everyone but her but still firm when he needed to be. I also enjoyed the families and friend. It was a perfect blend of all of them together.
I honestly didn't feel sorry for nicoletta at all....not even a little bit but I was a bit shocked at the outcome.. all I could say was WOW.
November 14, 2015
Wonderful!
This was a wonderful love story. I don't know why it took me so long to read it. It's a story of love, suspense and redemption. Gianluca and Allegra were young people in love before real life intervene. After seven years, Gianluca realized she was his one and only love. He decided to find her. Of course you have the meeting up and rehashing what happened all those years ago. Afterwards, they were taking it at a slow pace. That didn't last long. The loving was off the chain. Then life intervened again. Not the typical trials and tribulations of relationships. After experiencing one of the worst thing that could have happened to them, love prevailed. A wonderful story of love and family.
This was a wonderful love story. I don't know why it took me so long to read it. It's a story of love, suspense and redemption. Gianluca and Allegra were young people in love before real life intervene. After seven years, Gianluca realized she was his one and only love. He decided to find her. Of course you have the meeting up and rehashing what happened all those years ago. Afterwards, they were taking it at a slow pace. That didn't last long. The loving was off the chain. Then life intervened again. Not the typical trials and tribulations of relationships. After experiencing one of the worst thing that could have happened to them, love prevailed. A wonderful story of love and family.
November 16, 2023
It took them eight years to get it right
Even though Gianluca broke her heart when he returned home to Italy to take care of the family business, Allegra was determined to avoid him when his company bought the one she worked for. If it weren't for her girlfriends encouraging her to listen to what he had to say, she would have continued being stubborn and trying her best to ignore him. Her mind had that plan but her body was remembering their past. She thought that a one-night tryst was enough but it unleashed a floodgate of desire.
Just when they were finally getting their second chance, exes from their time when they were trying to move on with their lives, threw some ish in their path. One was a minor irritant who wanted to take advantage of the situation. The other was a big pain in the a$$ to the entire Demarco family that could have resulted in Luca's losing his Bella forever. But, he was determined that he would not lose her ever again. He'd lost her for eight years and that was not happening again on his watch.
I loved reading this story. It was well-plotted and executed. The drama had my heart jumping in my throat. I couldn't figure out who the culprit was for almost offing Allegra. With much support from friends and family, Gianluca and Allegra finally get their HEA. Luca can finally say to his Bella "Mia Moglie!"
Even though Gianluca broke her heart when he returned home to Italy to take care of the family business, Allegra was determined to avoid him when his company bought the one she worked for. If it weren't for her girlfriends encouraging her to listen to what he had to say, she would have continued being stubborn and trying her best to ignore him. Her mind had that plan but her body was remembering their past. She thought that a one-night tryst was enough but it unleashed a floodgate of desire.
Just when they were finally getting their second chance, exes from their time when they were trying to move on with their lives, threw some ish in their path. One was a minor irritant who wanted to take advantage of the situation. The other was a big pain in the a$$ to the entire Demarco family that could have resulted in Luca's losing his Bella forever. But, he was determined that he would not lose her ever again. He'd lost her for eight years and that was not happening again on his watch.
I loved reading this story. It was well-plotted and executed. The drama had my heart jumping in my throat. I couldn't figure out who the culprit was for almost offing Allegra. With much support from friends and family, Gianluca and Allegra finally get their HEA. Luca can finally say to his Bella "Mia Moglie!"
January 21, 2021
I had this on my TBR list for a long time and totally forgot to read it until now. I do enjoy Skylar Ward's books. This is a lovely romance about two people who were in a relationship in college but separated for eight years due to misunderstandings and miscommunications, also distance. Allegra and Luca reunite after he tracks her down and buys the company she works for. He pursues her and wins her heart back. Lots of drama ensues, of course. I think the dialogue in this book is awesome. Also love the friendships Allegra has with her friends Esperanza and Toni. Love scenes are hot and generously scattered throughout the book. Overall, a very good read, but I did think it was longer than it should have been.
April 7, 2016
Eh,it was Ok.
Gianluca Demarco is an Italian student studying in New York,while there he meets and falls in love with Allegra Thomas,who is also in the New York to get a degree. The lovers will be graduating soon and have plans, however those plans take a turn and Gianluca has to head back to his native home of Florence,Italy. While there he calls and informs Allegra,he does not know when or even if he will return,a devastated Allegra leaves New York and heads to her Native home of Barbados to heal her broken heart,now years later she is back in the States with a career an life of her own,but her life take another turn when out of nowhere Gianluca is back and he wants his woman,by any means necessary.
Not a bad book, I love the premise and the sex was super hot,but really that's all I liked about it. I'm not saying it was a bad read (I never review those) I'm just saying this book kind of dragged for me. I wasn't in love with this couple. Allerga was kind of weak for me,and not in a damsel in distress kind of way but she seemed a bit weak minded. She was so agreeable so fast,I couldn't believe it. Gianluca was what you would expect, a pushy man used to getting what he wants. I just wish Allegra wouldn't have made it so easy for him. All in all,it was ok.
Gianluca Demarco is an Italian student studying in New York,while there he meets and falls in love with Allegra Thomas,who is also in the New York to get a degree. The lovers will be graduating soon and have plans, however those plans take a turn and Gianluca has to head back to his native home of Florence,Italy. While there he calls and informs Allegra,he does not know when or even if he will return,a devastated Allegra leaves New York and heads to her Native home of Barbados to heal her broken heart,now years later she is back in the States with a career an life of her own,but her life take another turn when out of nowhere Gianluca is back and he wants his woman,by any means necessary.
Not a bad book, I love the premise and the sex was super hot,but really that's all I liked about it. I'm not saying it was a bad read (I never review those) I'm just saying this book kind of dragged for me. I wasn't in love with this couple. Allerga was kind of weak for me,and not in a damsel in distress kind of way but she seemed a bit weak minded. She was so agreeable so fast,I couldn't believe it. Gianluca was what you would expect, a pushy man used to getting what he wants. I just wish Allegra wouldn't have made it so easy for him. All in all,it was ok.
September 16, 2015
Hmmm, as a West Indian native myself (Trinidad) I appreciate the mixed culture and the author captured both the Caribbean and Bajan traditions well. I loved how Allegra was proud of her Bajan roots and the accents displayed was on point. Now for the negatives...I did not like how the entire book seemed to portray the couple as sex addicts. There was a tragedy in the book yet lust seemed to be the foremost thing for Gianluca. Don't get me wrong, he loved his woman and she loved him and he was definitely alpha male (probably too much!) but the realistic side is that the continually sex downplayed alot of the emotional aspect however this book was a good read with lots of intrigue and a hot as sin male who knows what he wants and goes after it..which happens to be Allegra
October 11, 2015
In DeMarco's World: A Second Chance for Love, author Skylar Ward gives us look into the relationship of Gianluca and Allegra, who were once college sweethearts until a misunderstanding tore them apart. Eight years, later neither Luca nor Allegra could get each other out of their hearts. Luca broke off his engagement with his fiancee, made arrangements to purchase the company that Allegra worked for. This alpha male was going to do everything in his power to get his woman back.
There second chance was riddle with obstacles, the ex-fiancee, the ex-boyfriend and temporary memory loss. But in the end Luca and Allegra's love won out. Luca fought for their love when it seem the odd were stacked against him.
There second chance was riddle with obstacles, the ex-fiancee, the ex-boyfriend and temporary memory loss. But in the end Luca and Allegra's love won out. Luca fought for their love when it seem the odd were stacked against him.
August 14, 2015
This was an amazing read
I have read soooo many IR lately that left me asking where are the talented author are. Well I found one.
This book read like a really good movie, it had a little of everything and enough of everything to keep you guessing and waiting to see what will happen next.
It was a joy to read about an Educated women who knew her worth and an man that was willing to fight for what he wanted.
I have read soooo many IR lately that left me asking where are the talented author are. Well I found one.
This book read like a really good movie, it had a little of everything and enough of everything to keep you guessing and waiting to see what will happen next.
It was a joy to read about an Educated women who knew her worth and an man that was willing to fight for what he wanted.
September 12, 2015
Good storyline
Enjoyed this romance between a strong gorgeous alpha male Italian who really protected the love of his life, it was great to see the acceptance of their love by both parents. Although Luca was a legit business man, I loved how the old school mafia came out when needed. I like how Bella was strong in her own right, but let Luca take care of her when needed. I would like to read a sequel of the next phase of their lives.
Enjoyed this romance between a strong gorgeous alpha male Italian who really protected the love of his life, it was great to see the acceptance of their love by both parents. Although Luca was a legit business man, I loved how the old school mafia came out when needed. I like how Bella was strong in her own right, but let Luca take care of her when needed. I would like to read a sequel of the next phase of their lives.
September 15, 2015
Best book boyfriend ever
This is my #1 book. Lord, we need more of Lucas in this world. I haven't read any book ever that had a great man who would do anything for the love of his life. Allergy was a doll. I couldn't say anything negative about writing or the characters. I will read this book a numerous time. Very good book.
This is my #1 book. Lord, we need more of Lucas in this world. I haven't read any book ever that had a great man who would do anything for the love of his life. Allergy was a doll. I couldn't say anything negative about writing or the characters. I will read this book a numerous time. Very good book.
May 5, 2021
Eight years couldn’t diminish their love!
Amid a family crisis Gianluca must leave his love Allegra behind in NY ad he returns home to Italy with no return date in sight. Through a mix in communication, the couple break up and spend 8 years apart until Gianluca has had enough! He buys Allegra’s company and moves back to New York to get his woman back!
This was a good story. I really like both main characters and their love for each other, their friends and family were great as well.
While there supposedly conflict between the brothers, it seemed to just kind of disappear with our H younger brother just deciding he would not be upset anymore. I would’ve liked more to that. Also, I’m all for Luca taking his family’s business legit but the fact the mob ties come up and that he and his father still have ties to it while entertaining seemed a little out of place. I guess I would’ve just liked to see more of those hints that although he’s a businessman he’s still dangerous.
Good story, I was engrossed and entertained the whole time!
Amid a family crisis Gianluca must leave his love Allegra behind in NY ad he returns home to Italy with no return date in sight. Through a mix in communication, the couple break up and spend 8 years apart until Gianluca has had enough! He buys Allegra’s company and moves back to New York to get his woman back!
This was a good story. I really like both main characters and their love for each other, their friends and family were great as well.
While there supposedly conflict between the brothers, it seemed to just kind of disappear with our H younger brother just deciding he would not be upset anymore. I would’ve liked more to that. Also, I’m all for Luca taking his family’s business legit but the fact the mob ties come up and that he and his father still have ties to it while entertaining seemed a little out of place. I guess I would’ve just liked to see more of those hints that although he’s a businessman he’s still dangerous.
Good story, I was engrossed and entertained the whole time!
June 10, 2020
This s s good story confirming that true love does not die. Story tells how couple were lovers in college but circumstances kept them apart for eight years. I tryin to fight their attraction proved fruitless and love brought them back together. Circumstances, people and their own mistrust tried to keep them apart after they reconnected but love conquered all.
Author did exceptional job building characters and story had several expected twists and turns. Author answered all questions and book ends with HEA.
Recommend this book for all. Book kind of wordy but I read all at once since it so interesting.
Author did exceptional job building characters and story had several expected twists and turns. Author answered all questions and book ends with HEA.
Recommend this book for all. Book kind of wordy but I read all at once since it so interesting.
June 8, 2019
I appreciate an author who can flush out and develop her characters, establish enough of a back story to transition the ancillary players into a future story (please?) and crafts a plot that trudges beyond the syrupy surface of the standard fairytale IR novel.
It's refreshing to read that while Luca was a true alpha, Allegra was equally as self aware and headstrong. Their personal coming to terms, coupled with outside issues of prejudice, jealousy and acceptance made the storyline all the more realistic.
A great read, and I anxiously await more from this author.
It's refreshing to read that while Luca was a true alpha, Allegra was equally as self aware and headstrong. Their personal coming to terms, coupled with outside issues of prejudice, jealousy and acceptance made the storyline all the more realistic.
A great read, and I anxiously await more from this author.
March 2, 2020
At first l thought Gianlucca was a Overbearing, Controlling Jerk. I thought at first Gianlicca was too controlling went came to Allegra. Then l find out towards the end of the book how sweet and kind Gianlucca is especially when came to Frankie. Where everyone had written the guy off like he was a nobody. Gianlucca didn’t, after Frankie helped Licca. Licca got Frankie some much needed help. Gianlucca was very loving and caring to Allegra. A very intimate couple and l’m not just talking about the sex. But it was a great book to read over all.
May 14, 2018
Ok story
I love Italian mafia stories but this one was kind of la king in substance. And some of the conversations were bad. I know the main male character was Italian, but to have "no?" or "capisce" at the end of almost everyone of his sentences was unbelievable, especially since he had an MBA degree. The way the book ended wasn't really an epilogue but seemed like an after thought.
I love Italian mafia stories but this one was kind of la king in substance. And some of the conversations were bad. I know the main male character was Italian, but to have "no?" or "capisce" at the end of almost everyone of his sentences was unbelievable, especially since he had an MBA degree. The way the book ended wasn't really an epilogue but seemed like an after thought.
December 4, 2021
Beautifully written. 4.5 Stars.
Usually, when the main characters have a misunderstanding it’s something that can be cleared up with a simple 5 minute conversation. But in this case, even I was confused. Both parties felt aggrieved and held on to resentment.
Most of the story is about a second chance romance between Gianluca and Allegra after an eight year separation. However, the surprise mafia element towards the end was a welcome surprise. It elevated the story.
Usually, when the main characters have a misunderstanding it’s something that can be cleared up with a simple 5 minute conversation. But in this case, even I was confused. Both parties felt aggrieved and held on to resentment.
Most of the story is about a second chance romance between Gianluca and Allegra after an eight year separation. However, the surprise mafia element towards the end was a welcome surprise. It elevated the story.
January 12, 2021
This was really good! I knew that Luca's family had mafia connections! The more I read, I suspected that he did! Anyway, he proved his love for Allegra. I am going to read the next on about Fusillo. He was pretty cool in this book and I would like to see his story in the next one. I hope that Luca and Allegra are mentioned in it as well. Great story!
February 9, 2019
Loved it!!!
I'm glad I selected this novel . It was worth staying up half the night to finish it. Allegra and Luca are so good together. You get caught up in their rollercoaster Romance and it is one thrilling ride. I can't wait to read the next one.
I'm glad I selected this novel . It was worth staying up half the night to finish it. Allegra and Luca are so good together. You get caught up in their rollercoaster Romance and it is one thrilling ride. I can't wait to read the next one.
April 26, 2021
A refreshingly good book
I enjoyed this book. I loved how Luca loved his Bella. He even knew how to help take care of her hair. It is refreshing to read a book without a lot of grammar and typographical errors. This was a great read.
I enjoyed this book. I loved how Luca loved his Bella. He even knew how to help take care of her hair. It is refreshing to read a book without a lot of grammar and typographical errors. This was a great read.
February 18, 2022
Lovely story!
So many twists and turns. I loved how Luca was diligent in his quest to get Allegra back and how he embraced her beauty regime! Really likeable couple. Looking forward to the next book in the series
So many twists and turns. I loved how Luca was diligent in his quest to get Allegra back and how he embraced her beauty regime! Really likeable couple. Looking forward to the next book in the series
August 3, 2020
Second chance for love
I have read this book several times I love the characters and story line. Wish they meet earlier than 8 years
I have read this book several times I love the characters and story line. Wish they meet earlier than 8 years
August 29, 2021
Loved it!! I have all of the authors books, never disappointed!!
August 22, 2015
Loved this couple, loved this romance
Talk about a great romance story! It had all my requirements for a really great read. A really wonderfully portrayed alpha hero with the right amount of devotion, loyalty, obsession(healthy), and of course, sexiness to really carry a good romance. Cuz, let's face it if the hero ain't sexy, the story doesn't work. Luca other than a really stupid move on his part to not confide in his girl of two years the family emergency he found himself embroiled in while in college decided to "break" things off with Allegra as he felt he was unable to bring her into his uncertain family future. Dumb. He soon discovers that he needs her even more by his side during the crisis. Unfortunately, his realization comes too late as when he goes to fetch her she's already gone. With his pride in shambles and finances at the time limited to searching for her, he decides to move on with his life. The story really take off from the point of eight years later when we catch up with Luca miserable and engaged to some beautiful, but cold socialite. He is obviously still in love with Allegra and in a plan to win her back her, he first "breaks off his engagement" officially with his fiancee', then, goes after the woman he has always loved. Great, easy flowing dialogue. Every character was realistic, no overt caricatures. I love the West Indian ethnic aspect, cute. The sexual scenes were steamy and expertly written. What else can I say ? This is my kinda book, even had a little Italian mafia action going on. Fabulous!
Talk about a great romance story! It had all my requirements for a really great read. A really wonderfully portrayed alpha hero with the right amount of devotion, loyalty, obsession(healthy), and of course, sexiness to really carry a good romance. Cuz, let's face it if the hero ain't sexy, the story doesn't work. Luca other than a really stupid move on his part to not confide in his girl of two years the family emergency he found himself embroiled in while in college decided to "break" things off with Allegra as he felt he was unable to bring her into his uncertain family future. Dumb. He soon discovers that he needs her even more by his side during the crisis. Unfortunately, his realization comes too late as when he goes to fetch her she's already gone. With his pride in shambles and finances at the time limited to searching for her, he decides to move on with his life. The story really take off from the point of eight years later when we catch up with Luca miserable and engaged to some beautiful, but cold socialite. He is obviously still in love with Allegra and in a plan to win her back her, he first "breaks off his engagement" officially with his fiancee', then, goes after the woman he has always loved. Great, easy flowing dialogue. Every character was realistic, no overt caricatures. I love the West Indian ethnic aspect, cute. The sexual scenes were steamy and expertly written. What else can I say ? This is my kinda book, even had a little Italian mafia action going on. Fabulous!
August 11, 2015
I really enjoy this book read in one sitting overnight to keep me awake. I like Allegra(love the name) and Gianluca relationship with even though there was lack of communication between this two but everything work itself out. I love how her friends and families was very supportive of her, I know we need to have a villain but Nicolette character is everything I don't like about this new generation and I wish the author went to more details about those guys after Allegra and did Nicolette really connected to them or have that much money/power to do what she did when she was living off Luca money private jet and hotel etc. however the main person I really want to know about is Fusillo, that guy have me like, I don't know
I want to help him get rid of his dry spell since his friend lady doesn't want to help. can't we please Fusillo, story next I want to get inside his mind and peel him off layer by layer.
I want to help him get rid of his dry spell since his friend lady doesn't want to help. can't we please Fusillo, story next I want to get inside his mind and peel him off layer by layer.
August 30, 2015
The book started out great and just slowed to a boring crawl. Allegra and Luca fall in love in college and are living happily together until Luca is forced to return home to Italy for family matters. Fast forward 8 years later when they meet again as boss and employee. Allegra thinks Luca abandoned her 8 years ago and Luca thinks that she should have waited for him. The remainder of the book is about them reconciling and a past lover (Nicoletta) of Luca's that just won't go away quietly.
The pros: the main characters have chemistry and are likeable, especially Luca; the storyline had potential.
The cons: the suspense or tension created by Nicoletta's character was underdeveloped; Gavino's (Luca's brother) sudden change of heart toward Luca was too sudden and unbelievable; the mob connect was interesting but lacked detail; the detail about Bajan culture was interesting but excessive; the pacing was too slow.
The pros: the main characters have chemistry and are likeable, especially Luca; the storyline had potential.
The cons: the suspense or tension created by Nicoletta's character was underdeveloped; Gavino's (Luca's brother) sudden change of heart toward Luca was too sudden and unbelievable; the mob connect was interesting but lacked detail; the detail about Bajan culture was interesting but excessive; the pacing was too slow.
September 23, 2015
For the story I would give a 5; for the editing, a 3 at best
Great Story. Great developed characters. A prologue, a HEA, and an epilogue. The only part of the story I didn't like was when the hero tells the heroine that he is not returning from overseas but the apartment is paid and she had her Master's degree education set. She breaks down which would be normal but then she gives up her scholarship to return home heartbroken. Come on ladies. Do NOT give up your education over a breakup especially since she would not have run into him there - he was in Europe.
When I purchased this book the byline touted an editing service. There were many instances where words were used in the wrong tense, such as past tense when it should have been present, plural when it should have been singular. I found it annoying; my eye would automatically re-read the sentence to see if I read it right. It detracted from a very good story. The editors need an editor.
Great Story. Great developed characters. A prologue, a HEA, and an epilogue. The only part of the story I didn't like was when the hero tells the heroine that he is not returning from overseas but the apartment is paid and she had her Master's degree education set. She breaks down which would be normal but then she gives up her scholarship to return home heartbroken. Come on ladies. Do NOT give up your education over a breakup especially since she would not have run into him there - he was in Europe.
When I purchased this book the byline touted an editing service. There were many instances where words were used in the wrong tense, such as past tense when it should have been present, plural when it should have been singular. I found it annoying; my eye would automatically re-read the sentence to see if I read it right. It detracted from a very good story. The editors need an editor.
February 10, 2023
4.0⭐️This was a great story about second chances and while the author did mention it had a lot of sex scenes and adult language, I will add that the sex was explicit and the volume of sex scenes probably overshadowed the plot somewhat. I read it back in 2015, and these are my only notes. I do vaguely remember wanting a follow-up of this book and being disappointed that no sequel was on the horizon. Recently, I read "Fusillo's Way" and Gianluca Demarco and Allegra make a brief appearance. I really wish there had been a book between these two as a bridge or sequel to "Demarco's World." It seemed rather odd that at the beginning of "Fusillo's Way," he says he's nothing like Gianluca Demarco. I remember thinking who the heck is that? Notwithstanding, if you can get past lots of explicit sex, it is overall a good read.
August 30, 2015
Couldn't Get Thru It
I really try to support books by African American authors and/or African American themes, and IRR is one of my favorite genres but I just couldn't finish this book. I got about 25% thru it but the plot is thin and I don't get the characters, especially Gianluca, who says he loves Allegra but every other sentence is about how much he wants to screw her. I see the lust but not the love, so it's hard to believe they still carry a torch for each other after 8 years. While I like steamy seeps scenes, the plot and romance is what makes a book good to me, not the sex. The characters don't have much depth, they both seem really immature so unfortunately, I am not going to finish this book (which is REALLY RARE FOR ME)
I really try to support books by African American authors and/or African American themes, and IRR is one of my favorite genres but I just couldn't finish this book. I got about 25% thru it but the plot is thin and I don't get the characters, especially Gianluca, who says he loves Allegra but every other sentence is about how much he wants to screw her. I see the lust but not the love, so it's hard to believe they still carry a torch for each other after 8 years. While I like steamy seeps scenes, the plot and romance is what makes a book good to me, not the sex. The characters don't have much depth, they both seem really immature so unfortunately, I am not going to finish this book (which is REALLY RARE FOR ME)
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