Target on Our Backs

Monster in His Eyes #3

by J.M. Darhower

The best way to keep your word is never to give it. Not long ago, in a chapel in Vegas, I swore to love Karissa for the rest of my days. But nobody's promised an infinite number of tomorrows. Nobody's promised forever. Sometimes, all we have left is today. Carpe Diem. Seize the day. It should've been over, we should've been happy, but people are making it hard for me to live in peace. I've got so much blood on my hands they'll never be clean, and somebody out there seems to want me to pay for it. Happily Ever After always comes at a cost, one any real man would be willing to pay. But that doesn't mean I'm just going to roll over and accept these consequences. Because when it comes to the woman I love? The life I've fought for? Nobody is safe.

Genres: Romance, Dark Romance, Dark, Mafia Romance, Contemporary, Crime, Adult

356 pages, Paperback

First published February 23, 2016

Reviews

[Hulya Kara Yuksel · Rating 5 out of 5]

“There's just something about you, Karissa," he whispers, "something I've sought for a very long time.”



OH MY SWEET GOD! PLS EXCUSE ME BECAUSE I'M ABOUT TO LOSE MYSELF WITH THE FUCKING AMAZING "IGNAZIO MICHELE VITALE" :))) GOD THIS BOOK WAS EPIC! IT WAS ALL I EVER NEED IT. OMFG I'M SOOOO HAPPY RIGHT NOW! YESSS, I'M WRITING WITH BIG -SHOUTING- CAPITAL LETTERS BECAUSE THIS BOOK WAS SOOOO FUCKING MIND BLOWING. :)

God, I have no idea there will be a 3rd book so when I first saw this book I almost got a heart attack! Damn author of the book caught me unguarded. :D Trust me, I’m not shitting with you. When I first saw this book and read the blurb my hands were literally shaking from too much happiness! :D From that moment I just knew it, this book will be unforgettable for me and yep I got what I want in return! So thank you very much J.M.Darhower for those phenomenal hours… :D

“Torture to Her Soul” was my favorite book in this series but God, when I start to read this book it just took my breath away… I just couldn’t stop myself and I incessantly read the book. One chapter, then another and then another... Until my eyes hurts I read it. Holy shit, it was really captivating and so damn freaking beautiful. :) Karissa & Naz’s chemisty as always so fucking HOT! When I read those exclusive moments just Wooow! I was smiling like a fool! :D And he’s still love kinky things and that’s why I love him so much! Hahah :D God, Ignazio Michele Vitale. I would give anything to have you!!! I even try to kill Karissa! Yep, I’m quite a fan of you honey. :D

And I wanna tell you one more thing. If you read this book you’ll meet “LORENZO GAMBINI” and God bless him, he’s just so fucking awesome! And I just wanna know more about him, I just need it. :) I even send a message to the author and asked her nicely to write a book about him. Yeah, yeah I’m acting like a crazy fan right now and I don't even care but believe me when you meet that guy, he will rock your world!!! He’s as perfect as Ignazio Vitale. So I suggest you stop losing time and go read the damn book asap!!! You’re missing too much, too freaking much!

PS. I’ll share some quotes from this book or maybe a lot of quotes. Because I have a lot of favorite moments in this book. :D Unless you don't wanna spoilers, do me a favor just don’t read the quotes ok? Thanks! :D

J.M.Darhower. You're amazing! Thank you so much for this wonderful finale and that amazing epilogue too... :)


"OMG Finally Naz became a father! They have a little boy!!!! :D When I read that epilogue, God I was just sooooo freakin happy! :D Welcome to the world Fabrizio Michele Vitale. . :)"








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Buddy Read with my gorgeous girls Ana & Brenda!!! And I know, I spoiled this BR for you cause I finished the book before you girls. Sorry for not sorry cause we're talking about Vitale in here helloooo! How can I read the damn book so slow? Yeah, yeah I'm sucked at this BR. :) Anyway but still it was quite fun! Thank you ladies. Love you both so freaking much. :)

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“There's just something about you, Karissa," he whispers, "something I've sought for a very long time.”

“He pushes in then, slowly, deeply, stroking a chord inside of me. My breath hitches. Oh God.
"I love that sound," he whispers, his voice gritty. "It's the best music in the world."
I wrap my arms around him. "Maybe that should be your ringtone, then."
He laughs, his face nuzzled into my neck. "That wouldn't work."
"Why?"
"Because others would hear it. That sound belongs only to my ears.”

“Shaking my head, I can't help the smile that fights to break free. It's completely ridiculous. It's probably the most absurd few minutes of my life. But the sound of her laughter, of her happiness, does to me something nothing else can. It cuts straight through my darkness. With her, I almost feel light.”

“ I married you, Karissa, because I love you. Nothing more, nothing less."
As many times as he's said those words… I love you… it still makes my stomach flutter to hear them come from him. The butterflies soar. He's not an outwardly emotional person, not at all, so when he says it, I know he means it.
Wrapping my arms around his neck, I reach up on my tiptoes and kiss him. His lips are soft, sweet. His tongue tastes like peppermint. "I love you, too, you know."
"I know.”

“I kiss him deeply, desperately, as I paw at his clothes, and he tolerates it for a moment. Just a moment. Long enough for me to unbutton his shirt. In a blink, his hand snatches ahold of my wrists, pinning them together, pinning them down to the bed above my head. Pulling back some, he looks me in the eyes.
He says nothing.
He just stares.
Studying me again.
It's almost a minute, as I count the torturous seconds in my head. It should been awkward, but it isn't. It's erotic. His gaze penetrates me, effectively fucking my soul.”

“Carpe Diem. The words are etched in the metal pendant. Tomorrow isn't a guarantee. Nothing is promised. So today? Seize the Day.
That's how Naz lives his life.
That's how I want to live it with him.”
“He makes love to me then, like only Naz can, alternating between slow and deep and rough and hard, sending me into a tailspin. It's a breath-catching, skin-slapping, soul-capturing kind of love. The man owns me. He consumes me. Every part of me was made for every part of him. It's the kind of love I can't imagine ever living without. It's raw, and real, and it's ours.
It's ours.
It goes on forever.
Life flashes before my eyes.
We're old and gray and happy. We're happy.
Nothing is going to get in our way now.”

“I was going to take it easy on you," he says, his voice low. "Lay you down on the bed and worship you, all day and all night. Kiss and caress every inch of you. Taste you with my tongue until you can't take anymore. And then I was going to give it to you, deep and slow... make you come over and over again, until all you can do is whimper, cry my name." His free hand, the one not clutching the belt, slowly ghosts along the front of my body, his fingertips brushing against my flushed skin. He runs the hand along my breasts before settling on my chest, over my heart. "You like it that way, don't you? Like when I make you feel all of my love."
I nod, tingles erupting all over. "Uh-huh."
"And I was going to love you right, remind you what it feels like to be cherished, to be idolized, to be treated like the queen you are. I was going to make serious love to you, baby." "But now I think I'll just fuck you instead.”

“Ignazio Michele Vitale," I say playfully, intentionally flubbing the middle name, just to get more of a rise out of him. "I can't believe you were singing a song from the eighties."
"You were seeing things.”

“Nothing I can say will make her feel better at the moment, so I just press a kiss to her forehead before walking out.
Places to go.
People to see.
Blood to spill.
You know how it is.”

“I squeeze my eyes shut tighter, trying to imagine another world again. A world where we're happy, where we're together, where we're away from all of this.
A world without a target on our backs.
A world where Naz comes home.
A world where we can live in peace.
A world that's just ours.”

“Where are you going?"
"To get my wife back."
"How do you know where to look?"
I hold my phone up. "I've got a map."
"A map?" He laughs. Laughs. "You ever feel like Admiral Ackbar with the Death Star plans?"
I look at him, brow furrowed.
"You know... Return of the Jedi? It's a trap!"
I shake my head.
"Really? Nothing?" He scrunches up his face as if I disgust him. "How are we even friends?"
"We're not.”

[✦❋Arianna✦❋ · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Stars!!



If you haven’t already started this series, it’s time for you to do that, because let me tell you, this series is awesome. If you are like me and you love mafia/mob romance stories or simply you crave something unique that will keep you at the edge of your seat then I totally recommend this series. I guarantee you won’t be disappointed!

“If Naz taught me anything, it's that sometimes coincidences aren't really coincidences.
Sometimes they're orchestrated.”

“Target on Our Backs” is the third installment in J.M. Darhower series entitled “Monster in His Eyes” and it's without a doubt the best book of the series. First and foremost I have to say the title is very fitting, says it all you have to know about this installment, promising an action-packed conclusion to Naz and Carissa’s story. While this installment was not as action-packed as the previous ones, it kept me at the edge of my seat with everything that’s going on. The suspense is there, intriguing as hell and the danger is everywhere…



Naz and Carissa are now married living in New York. Naz is trying to change for the woman he deeply loves. As much as he’s trying to stay away from his past, from the life that almost killed Carissa, he can’t lie to himself about who he really is. After all ‘a leopard doesn’t change its spots ‘. Carissa knows that Naz is trying to be better only for her, not exactly for him, knowing very well he doesn't have any regrets. She also knows he’s doing it because he thinks it’s what she needs.

“…the sound of her laughter, of her happiness, does to me something nothing else can.
It cuts straight through my darkness.
With her, I almost feel light.”

I loved this book! LOVED IT!! I remember I was really surprised…pleasantly of course, when I found out that Naz and Carissa’s story will continue. Like I mentioned above this third book is the best of the series. At least for me! This story really has everything you wish for in a book – great, multidimensional characters, well developed plot, steamy sex scenes and more. The pace of the story is simply perfect, the storyline is addictive, the writing as always flawless and the dual POV is fantastically done.

“Naz is the kind of guy that, once he walks into your world, he throws it off its axis, so even if he walks back out, nothing spins the same anymore.”

I loved Naz is the previous installments, but here he was fantastic. I loved his softer side and the way he loves Carissa. You will love his darker side, but this new softer side will melt your heart. Even if he wants to change for Carissa he still is a dangerous man. He’s dominant, protective confident and like me, you will certainly fall for him.

"You love a sinner. If anything, that makes you a saint."

I liked Carissa in this installment. If in the other installment she got on my nerves a little, here she was an endearing character. Her character as Naz’s was well developed. I loved how she accepted Naz for who he really is. These two were simply great together. The complement each other in every way and their love for each other is tangible, palpable and I honestly couldn’t get enough of them. Once again, their chemistry is off the charts in this installment!



The interactions between Naz and Carissa are fantastically done here. The dialogue was entertaining, even funny at times because surprise, surprise Naz can’t also be funny. I just loved the dynamic between them.

All in all, “Target on Our Backs” was a great conclusion to Naz and Carissa’s story. It was intriguing, well-paced and a great mix of suspense, steam and just a little bit of drama! Perfection!

“Tomorrow isn't a guarantee. Nothing is promised. So today? Seize the Day.”

[Jennifer Kyle · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 * NAZ* STARS

”You love a sinner. If anything, that makes you a saint.”



Did you think that our couple was happy off in the sunset as the last pages of the last book all pointed to? Sadly things aren't always that easy. No matter how much Naz is trying to walk a sort of straight arrow, he is being drawn out and he'll stop at nothing to protect the woman he loves, his wife, Karissa Vitale.

”Out only means I can sit on the sidelines, waiting until I get called back into the game. And they’ve been calling for me, pretty incessantly, both teams. So I’m out, yeah, which means I’m reluctantly still in.”



J.M. Darhower delivers the best book of the series with this final installment. The story is told in alternating POVs of both Karissa and Naz. As the mob heads of New York City are trying to lure Naz back in, a new player is on the scene, leaving him with no choice but to defend what’s his!



Naz, Naz, Naz, has become a top book boyfriend of mine throughout this series. He’s unapologetic killer, but his love for Karissa and his sexual prowess is off the damn charts!!

”Figured it wouldn’t be a problem,” he says, “since you like the idea of being watched and all.”



The story was perfectly paced and our couple is imperfectly perfect together. When you add Naz’s father into the mix, a dog named Killer, and a whole lot of danger at every corner, this book became something I was unable to put down.

”The man owns me. He consumes me. Every part of me was made for every part of him. It’s the kind of love I can’t imagine ever living without. It’s raw, and real, and it’s ours. It goes on forever.”



As for the action-packed finale and that darn epilogue that had me swooning and smiling, probably for days to come. The author brought the series full circle in the most wonderful way.

”Her and him.
My life.
My second wind.
I’d take on the world for them.
And I promise you…I’d win.



This is a believable ending for a great couple that has come such a very long way through this sexy action-packed series.



**ARC provided in exchange for an honest review**

[Bibi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I want more of Naz!

Wow! The entire series was just so good and I finally found a female author who succeeded in writing the most perfectly nuanced male character. Halleluyah!

[Candace · Rating 4 out of 5]

I absolutely love Naz! So, when I started seeing reviews for 'Target On Our Backs' pop up on friends' pages, my first thought was, "How didn't I know this book was coming out?". After I got past the surprise, I succumbed to the excitement of having more Naz and Karissa on the way.

As much as I liked this book, it had a much different feel to it than the earlier books in this series. Although we were given glimpses of the "old" Naz, he was predominantly a lost, tamer version of the scary man we all loved. Naz is trying to live a better life and get out of the mob for Karissa's sake. So, what does a retired hitman do all day? Mostly just lounge around the house trying to figure out what to do with themselves.

Of course, getting out isn't easy. Competing forces are trying to draw Naz back into the lifestyle he so desperately wants to escape. When their attempts to draw him back in begin to threaten those that he loves, he's forced to take action.

I am very curious to see if Lorenzo will get his own series. The relationship dynamics between him and Naz definitely had my interest piqued. Their "non-friendship", along with Lorenzo's budding criminal empire leaves a lot to ponder. I'd love to read more of Lorenzo's story.

Overall, this was a great book and wrapped up the story of Naz and Karissa nicely. I feel like this book gave their story some closure, even though it was left open enough to revisit them in the future. I have a feeling we might see some cameo appearances from Naz in Darhower's future works, but maybe that's just wishful thinking on my part.

[Lo Bookfrantic · Rating 5 out of 5]

5★★★★★Nothing is promised so Seize the Day ~ Stars

Genre: Romantic Suspense
Type: Book 3 of Monster In His Eyes series
POV: First Person - Dual

“Life is what it is. You can’t escape it...You love a sinner. If anything, that makes you a saint.”

Target On Our Backs picks up a year after the second book. Ignazio Vitale aka Naz; is now married happily with the girl who stole his heart; the girl that he was supposed to kill. Naz now at age thirty-eight and Karissa Vitale at only twenty are trying to live a new life away from Naz’s past. However; life isn’t always easy for these two.

"Out only means I can sit on the sidelines, waiting until I get called back into the game. And they’ve been calling for me, pretty incessantly, both teams. So I’m out, yeah, which means I’m reluctantly still in.” Naz

Karissa finds herself struggling to move on; she is confused. She knows she loves Naz and would do anything for him but she is also scared that she will lose him because even though she knows he is out for good from his old life there is still someone always trying to hurt them. Karissa attempts to continue her normal life going back to school with her best friend Melody. She still has her dog and it’s hilarious to see Naz and her together because she always tease him for being older than her and he is trying to do anything to keep her happy.

“Naz is the kind of guy that, once he walks into your world, he throws it off its axis, so even if he backs out, nothing spins the same anymore. I love him...with every fiber of my being.” Karissa

Ignazio is out from the world he knew however he also knew everyone wanted him back and he will do anything to stay away and protect Karissa is his ultimate goal. Naz wants to please his wife there is nothing he won’t do for her he even puts up with her music addiction and her habits of eating ramen noodles. Their relationship is sexy, funny and amazing. I found myself fanning myself, giggling so much at these two. I loved everything about them.

“He fuck me like he’s sprinting towards a finish line, the bang-bang-bang of my body hitting the counter amplified in the otherwise silent house. Fuck. Fuck. Fuck.”

“If my wife gets hurt in any way, I’ll kill you, and I can promise it won’t be merciful.”

There is so much action on this book, everyone wants Naz on their side and won’t stop until they achieve it. However; no one messes with Naz and the minute they touched Karissa all hell broke loose. Naz was out for blood and was bound to stop anyone who gets on his way. The events on this book had me nervous, excited, and I loved the action and suspense. The author was able to give us a well combine story with everything a reader could hope for. We got a couple that their love was put to test to see if it would survive all the obstacles and targets on their backs. We have action, suspense, and we got sexy and funny parts that had me just wishing this books wasn’t over. This book was everything, loves it hard and I would recommended to all my mafia lovers.

“It’s the kind of love I can’t imagine ever living without. It’s raw and real, and it’s our. It’s our. It goes on forever.” Karissa

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[TheCrazyWorldOfABookLover · Rating 5 out of 5]

NAZ IS BACK BABY. And let me tell you, he does NOT disappoint.

In the third installment to the Monster In His Eyes Series by my QUEEN JM Darhower, we get to see a somewhat, dare I say, softer side to the monster you can’t help but love. Don’t worry, though. For all the sick, twisted, lunatics out there like me (I am not ashamed to admit Naz threatening to slice a man’s throat still gets me all giddy) who can’t help but swoon when Naz goes all “monster” on a man, he still won’t hesitate to take out anyone who crosses him…..

Even though he’s trying. Trying to stay out of that life. Trying to be a better man for Karissa. But people from his past are making it really hard for him to be the ‘good man’ Karissa believes he is.

“…He’s not doing it because he wants to repent for his actions. He’s not doing it to make up for his sins. He’s doing it not because he’s tired of being the man he has been. He’s doing it because he thinks it’s what I need.

He wants to be a better man to ease my guilt for loving someone like him.

A leopard doesn’t change its spots. That’s what Giuseppe said.

You can dress a wolf up in sheep’s clothing, but the son of a bitch will still eat you alive if you let it.”

And that is all I will say on the plot. As always, I think a book like this is best read going in blind. I will talk about Naz, though. And I will mention how he is unbelievably, undeniably, irrefutably one of the sexiest men I have ever read about. And it’s not even his skill, his dirty words, or his dominance (though those don’t hurt my case – see below my fellow pervs), it’s his quiet confidence, it’s the way he loves Karissa, the way he will not let ANYTHING come between them.

“And I was going to love you right, remind you what it feels like to be cherished, to be idolized, to be treated like the queen you are. I was going to make serious love to you, baby.”

I let out a shaky breath, and before I can even inhale again, his hand shifts. It’s a split second, barely a blink. His hand is around my neck, tightly squeezing, as he yanks me toward him, flush against him.

“But now I think I’ll just fuck you instead.”



HELLOOOOOOOOO, NAZ! Oh, how I have missed you.

This book was absolutely amazing. Incredible. Phenomenal. And every other synonym for the words I just wrote.

Ever since I first read Monster In His Eyes, nothing has come close to being so captivating. Nothing just sucks you in from the get-go quite like her stories. JM Darhower's writing, as usual, is flawless. She can write books on this man until the end of time and I would never tire of them.

AND THAT ENDING?! I WAS NOT PREPARED. MY GOD I was not ready. It should have come with a warning *Fainting May Occur* *Your Heart May Explode*.

A side note – Lorenzo absolutely stole the show for me. I am IN LOVE with that crazy ass man and I would be freaking ecstatic to see him get a book of his own!

Target On Our Backs is out NOW! | http://amzn.to/1Or9B8x

Monster In His Eyes | http://amzn.to/21aVvog
Torture To Her Soul | http://amzn.to/21aVDUY



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[Val ⚓️ Shameless Handmaiden ⚓️ · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 Stars

Review to come...

[✰ Liz ✰ · Rating 5 out of 5]

~4.5 LOVING NAZ STARS~

"You see, when a king is killed, anarchy reigns as the next strongest male steps up to take his place."

Target on Our Backs is a welcome home to Naz lovers everywhere. It offers a perfect blend of action and steam. It is the third book of the Monsters in His Eyes Series, and this series must be read in order.

"The man is an enigma. A beautiful, sometimes terrifying puzzle that I'm still piecing together, little by little."

Target on Our Backs picks up directly after Torture to Her Soul. Karissa and Naz are now married, and both are focused on each other. Naz has made every effort to become a better man for Karissa. Karissa is still in school and trying to juggle studying, cooking, and being married to a "monster". The relationship between the two is more open than it has ever been.

"The minute I convince her I'm never going to kill her, suddenly she's the one trying to intimidate me."

It doesn't take long for Naz's past occupational habits to creep back into their lives. Naz finds himself in a precarious position. He must find the balance of dealing with his "family" entanglements without affecting Karissa's life. Naz's character remains true to form. He is powerful, violent, and quite the lover to his young wife. Can a person of Naz's status walk away from "the life" unscathed? The repercussions of every choice he has ever made (and the decisions he will make) are a constant threat for both himself and his beautiful wife.

"It's only a matter of time before he comes for me. Before he wants me. Whoever he is..."

"You don't need me to treat you like royalty to know what you mean to me. I can fuck you like this, fuck you like you're nothing and you still know you're everything to me."

Told in dual POV, Target on Our Backs was an excellent addition to this series. I found myself giddy over the married couple. Their development has been quite a journey throughout the series, and I have enjoyed watching them grow. The action and steam in this read are a perfect concoction. Although certain elements of the plot were slightly predictable, the tension rising throughout the action kept me on high alert for the entire read. The dialogue is quite witty and the natural banter between Karissa and Naz was addictive and extremely humorous. Naz's fierce love for Karissa goes above and beyond the standard "alpha male" category. I would say Naz is in a category all of his own. Additionally, the story arc was well developed and I was beyond pleased with the ending. Dare I say, I would happily read more of these two together? Yes! Yes, I would!

"But just because you call me a good guy doesn't mean I am one. It just means I've sufficiently Stockholm'ed you."

"Don't tell me something happened to her not unless you want the world to burn."

Overall, Target on Our Backs was a stunning addition to this series. Naz fans will love to see him back in action. He is by far one of my favorite heroes of all time! As always, I am drawn to this author like a moth to a flame. Everything she writes, she writes well. My kindle is full of Darhower goodness and if you haven't read any of her work yet, this series is a great place to start!

***Monster in His Eyes Series***


*ARC graciously provided via author in exchange for an honest review!*

For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:

[Eliza · Rating 5 out of 5]

Naz is the kind of guy that, once he walks into your world, he throws it off its axis, so even if he walks back out, nothing spins the same anymore.

He is back ladies & gentlemen! Ignazio Vitale. The man that can terrify and turn me on in the same sentence. If you are a lover of dark romance and you have yet to meet Naz, quick question. What is wrong with your life? *kidding* (kind of.. )

JM Darhower has made my dreams come true with this sneak attack addition to The Monster series. Each novel has built on a story that has a firmer grip on me than Naz's on the throat of his enemies.

For men like Naz there is no getting out, when you've made many enemies you don't just get to walk off into the sunset. Target on Our Backs centres on Naz trying to give Karissa the sun, when he is the darkness. The addition of new players & threats force Nas' hand (knife, gun..) back into the game.

I'll always come for you," I tell her. "The fucking devil himself couldn't stop me.



JM Darhower has made incredible work of this series and I urge you to pick it up. For those who have already in the know and thought the story ended with Torture to Her Soul, do not fear. JM does the series justice, with Target on Our Backs, she does not miss.

[Amy | Foxy Blogs · Rating 5 out of 5]

SEIZE THE DAY by READING THIS SERIES

TARGET ON OUR BACKS is a continuation of Monster in His Eyes & Torture to Her Soul told in dual points of view.

Naz & Karissa are now married and living in New York. Naz is trying to be the man Karissa sees him as; a good man. ”A leopard doesn’t change its spots.” Even with the changes Naz has committed himself to, deep down his core is still mafia.

”You’re lucky. You see, I’m trying to do better these days, trying to be a better man, trying to be the man my wife thinks I can be, so I’m not going to kill you tonight. I’m going to give you a chance.”

One of the funniest ways Naz changes was updating his cell's ringtone to ‘Hotline Bling’ by Drake. I busted up laughing when I saw this tough guy receive an incoming call with Holine Bling playing. It was so out of character, for him, that it made it comical.

I love the messages we get in Ms. Darhower’s mafia books. ’If Naz taught me anything, it’s that sometimes coincidences aren’t really coincidences. Sometimes they’re orchestrated.’ True in real life and true in TARGET ON OUR BACKS.

Karissa may not have anything to do with the mafia world, besides being married to a killer, but because of her connection to Naz, it makes her dangerous. ”I’m dangerous because of Naz. Naz would kill for me. He’d kill because of me.” The ones we love most make us most vulnerable. Love is both our strength and weakness.

I loved this story. It's my favorite in the 3 part series. Just like everyone else, I was pleasantly surprised when Ms. Darhower announced we were getting another book about Naz. I've missed reading her mafia books and this one hit the spot. The overall flow of this book was perfection.

For lovers of Monster in His Eyes series you'll want to read this dark and twisty conclusion to their love story.

✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦
Release date: 2/23/2016
Monster in His Eyes- on sale for $.99: http://amzn.to/1ngfS0r
Torture to Her Soul- on sale for $.99: http://amzn.to/1rrwWQt
Target on Our Backs- Pre-order | order: http://amzn.to/1L0op32

SERIES:


**Complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.**

[Ꮗ€♫◗☿ ❤️ ilikebooksbest.com ❤️ · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book!



Naz is the ultimate bad boy, brooding hero who can always take care of business and come in and save the day when his woman is in trouble, but he is a loner and is not always able to protect her as well as he thinks. This book also brings in Lorenzo Gambini, this is the first time he is introduced but I had already read the Scarlett Scars series and I love him sooo much. He has no empathy or morals but has friends, awesome wit and is hilarious.

Below is my favorite excerpt when Naz and Lorenzo are questioning one of Lorenzo’s guys on how Karissa got hurt:

I look at him incredulously. "She did it to herself."
“Uh, yeah," he says. "She kicked out the car window."
“She kicked out the car window."
“And the glass, it shattered. Cut her, I guess. She was fighting us, you know? Wasn't anything I could do about it. Like I said... she did it to her—"
Before the guy can finish saying 'herself', Lorenzo reacts, reaching into his waistband and pulling out his gun.
BANG
A single shot, right to the temple, lights up the basement. It blows his fucking head apart. The guy drops instantly.
Karissa lets out a scream, startled, and I pull her to me tightly, holding her as I glare at Lorenzo. "Was that necessary?"
“Of course," he says, slipping the gun back away. "All I heard was blah blah blah I didn't follow instructions so just kill me already. Why? What did you hear?"
“That you're a lunatic."
Karissa tenses. She's terrified.
But Lorenzo? He laughs.

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[Jacqueline's Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 I Never-Want-This-Series-To-End Stars

“Because even with everything that has happened, God help me, I do love him. I love him more than I ever though possible”

Dear J.M. Darhower, can you make this series go on forever? I can read ten million books on my favorite number tortured hunky killer. Sigh, I love you Naz and I love you too Karissa. I was really happy and surprised with Target on Our Backs. If you are a fan of the series or have this crazy love-obsession with Naz, like I do, then you will understand my excitement.

There are no words.

I cried when I saw it on my kindle.

Karissa and Naz went through a lot of stuff in the previous books. Naz was a liar and a killer, Karissa held on to her resentment and anger. BUT at the end of the day, all was well. The thing I love about Target on Our Back is that it continues the story of Naz and Karissa, but all the problems they faced were external. Yes, they still have issues, but they never let it get to them. It doesn’t hinder the relationship or the love they have for each other.

If an author can make tension, but not really have tension between the couple, to me that make for a great author and read.

“Not sure how many times I have to tell you… I’m not a good man, Karissa, and try as I might, I probably never will be”

“I’ll always come for you. The … devil himself couldn’t stop me”

I devoured Target on Our Backs, it was a non-stop read. I couldn’t get enough of it and like I said, please write more books! I don’t care if Naz is in his 60’s, I’ll still read it.

Naz works on being better for Karissa, not for himself. God, I love this man. He doesn’t have regrets and I don’t think he feels guilty for much, but the things he does are for Karissa, because he loves her. He continues to protect her and at all cost. I LOVED THAT. Karissa and Naz have an open and honest relationship now. Naz doesn’t hold any secrets, but he also doesn’t talk about what he does. If Karissa wants to know all she has to do is ask.

Karissa is still in college and she’s kind of coming to terms with being Naz’s wife and what all that entails. She has to deal with her past with him, but she also has to work on her future and what she wants in it. I love Karissa’s youthfulness. She works on accepting herself, but she also brings the happier side of Naz, the side she makes him smiles and jokes with her.

“The man owns me. He consumes me. Every part of me was made for every part of him. It’s the kind of love I can’t imagine every living without. It’s raw, and real, and it’s ours”

My favorite part of the book are the parts where Naz and Karissa just cohabitate and have dialogue. I found it so common and adorable. It’s very different from the previous books. On top of all of this, Naz has to deal with the bosses and the politics around it. Someone is out to get him and he does everything he can to protect his wife. So you will see new characters.

The book is filled with action and just when you think you figured it out, you are punched in the face again. It has so much love, passion, tension and drama to keep you on your toes. It’s a wonderful treat and I really hope the series lives on!

AN ARC WAS PROVDED

Series on sale 99 Cents

REVIEW | AMAZON
REVIEW | AMAZON
AMAZON

[~IreneOust~]

When your day is made because ... THIS:

[FMABookReviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

❝I'll always come back for you.❞

Target on Our Backs was the 3rd book in the 'Monster in His Eyes' series and without a doubt my favorite.

I started this series on 2/17/2015, reading straight through to the last book, finishing 2/21/2015. So I might be in fangirl mode here since I got the full three book experience all at once, but this will certainly be ranked as one of my top series of the year!

I loved this book! LOVED it! It was the perfect ending to their story. An ending I don't want, but the perfect one nonetheless.

What made this perfect?

DUAL POV

The first book is told from Karissa's POV, the second one from Naz's POV and this was from both of them. I mean really, what could have been better? Reading about Naz's vulnerability, and Karissa's doubts made me love them all the more.

❝There's something about the way he enters, a chill in the air, a heat in the stare, tells me Naz is here.❞

~

❝But the sound of her laughter, of her happiness, does to me something nothing else can. It cuts straight through my darkness. With her, I almost feel light.❞

THEIR LOVE

There is never any doubt of the love these two have for one another. Karissa has put aside (for the most part) Naz's past and wants to have a life with him. She refuses to believe he is inherently bad. She knows he has good within his soul. Naz wants to be good for Karissa. Even vowing to change. He will do whatever he needs to do to protect her, and he does. He is devoted to her mind, soul and body. I could feel their love and devotion. I cried with them, rooted for them, cheered them on.

❝I love you, Naz.❞

❝Not as much as I love you.❞

❝Pfft, yeah right.❞ I let go of the necklace. ❝I don't think that's humanly possible.❞

THE HUMOR

I was pleasantly surprised by the humor in this book. It made what could have been a heavy, dark read, much lighter. Naz is a funny man. Which made me love him all the more.

LORENZO
Okay, listen up, Ms. Darhower, this is a demand request! Lorenzo needs his own book! I might stalk you until we have it. Because not only was he dangerous, but he was hysterical and if ever a man had redeeming qualities, it is Lorenzo.

The 'Monster in His Eyes' series was a ride full of windy turns and dark places. Each book in the series had a purpose. I hate seeing it end! *Cheers* to the queen of Mafia romance, J. M. Darhower!



ARC graciously offered in exchange for review!

[Radmila · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 +++ STARS!!!







I'm a cat with nine lives and I'm already on number twelve. I'm living on borrowed time. When death wants to take me, it'll take me.


Oh Naz, how much I missed you.



You can capture a lion and teach it to do tricks, but you'll never change the nature of the beast. It'll still rip your fucking head off if you poke it the wrong way.








This book shows us how Naz and Karissa are doing as married couple. Karissa is still at college and Naz is "working".






I have permanency. I have somewhere to call home. I have a routine. But sometimes, I realize, that's really fucking boring. Don't get me wrong. I love the life we're building. And, God help me, I certainly love Naz, too. But there's something to be said about predictability, about rarely being surprised anymore.








And then...Lorenzo came.



Most people probably find him charming, even alluring, despite the scar on his face. He can be so charismatic, so manipulative, that they overlook it. But me? I know predator when I see one. I can spot one a mile away. There's nothing innocent about his intentions. He draws you right into his web with every intention of trapping you for life.








"Take me to her, Number One."
Number one.
You've got to be kidding me.
I watch as a guy clambers after Lorenzo. He gave them numbers. He gave them numbers.






I don't trust Lorenzo. I can't. I can't trust anybody. But I need him, and that makes him the closet thing to a friend as I've got.






Overall, it's obvious that Lorenzo has stolen all my attention. I mean, who doesn't like crazy, psychotic, alpha, hot, bad boy mobster?





But I did't forget about Naz. Don't you worry, he is my second favorite character. Right after Lorenzo. What do I think about the book? This is one of the best book I ever read. You should read this series.

[AleJandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Retaliation STARS

MIS PRIMERAS 5 ESTRELLAS DEL 2016


Qué les puedo decir de J. M Darhower que no les haya dicho ya?


-Qué amo su hermosa forma de escribir? Obvio

-Qué sus novelas de Mafia Romance son mis favoritas? Sin duda

-Qué con cada libro se supera como escritora? Sip

Qué cada una de sus novelas lleva diferente ritmo y enfoque pesar de que todas son del mismo genero? Sorprendentemente si.

Y si a eso le sumamos todo el cariño que ya le tenia a los personajes de esta trilogía, pues fue imposible para mi ser objetiva y darle menos de 5 estrellas.

Este libro me mantuvo con una sonrisa en el rostro todo el tiempo.

AMO A NAZ

AMO A KARISSA

AMO A KILLER

Y ame a todos los personajes nuevos.

Sí​ la historia tiene varios fallos, pero honestamente no me importaron, leer un libro de esta escritora es siempre una delicia y lo mejor es que siempre los publica de sorpresa, para este libro solo nos dio un mes de aviso.

Si eso no fuera suficiente, J. M. DARHOWER SABE DE RAP.

"Through every dark night, there's a brighter day."

Cuando metió Hotline Bling a la historia fue simplemente amazing.



Lo que mas espero en este mundo es que nos de una historia sobre Mel, me enamore tanto de ella, todas sus peculiaridades son perfectas, sus platicas con Karissa me mataban de la risa, cuando dice lo del Dr Seuss casi me hago pipi.



También espero libro sobre Lorenzo, ese tipo es un psicópata con el rostro desfigurado, suena como mi tipo de hombre.

"Was that necessary?"
"Of course," he says, slipping the gun back away. "All I heard was blah blah blah I didn't follow instructions so just kill me already . Why? What did you hear?"
"That you're a lunatic."

J.M. DARHOWER YOU ARE THE QUEEN

[Sonya ♕Chatterbooks book blog♕ · Rating 4 out of 5]

★★★★4.5 Naz is a Badass MOFO★★★★



This has been one of my all time favorite book series and I'm sad that it's come to an end. It's been one hell of a ride and even though I don't want to come off, I'm happy with the way everything turned out.

"Some of the most dangerous people are only dangerous because of what they mean to others,not because of who they are".

After taking out one of New York's top crime Lord,Naz has a target on his back(literally). Everywhere he goes,there's a trail of bullets and bodies that are starting to pile up. Taking no chances, he does everything in his power to keep his wife Karrissa safe. But how do you do that when the promise you made was to be a better person? No more killing no more destruction. But you know what Naz always says:He's not a good man.

Who's really after him?

Can he keep his promise not to hurt anyone?

Places to go.

People to see.

Blood to spill.

You know how it is...

Even though this story didn't have as much action than the previous books, I still loved it. The way he cared about Karissa,their everyday life,and trying to balance their new marriage along with being hunted was a great dynamic. Naz was still the same badass and I loved that even though he was trying to be better, that part of him was still there.

My only complaint was that I wanted to see more growth from Karrissa. She still seemed a bit naive and in certain situations but I still loved her. I loved Melody as well and the introduction to new characters who I'm praying get their own stories because the are crazy!

If you haven't read this series yet,I really don't know what you're doing with your life. Its sexy,forbidden,dark with the right amount of action.

[Jenny••Steamy Reads Blog•• · Rating 5 out of 5]

Naz. Just that one word says it all..... Yes, that's it. Thank you.



Okay, for real, if you haven't yet picked this series up, do it. It's EPIC, it's haunting, it's obsessing, its pure torture, it's beautiful in its own way (Naz). The man is an enigma!!!!!

[Seda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Seriye veda etmek istemiyorum. Gerçek hayata dönmek istemiyorum. Daha şimdiden özledim🥺😢🤧

✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨


Doymadım, doyamadım okumaya... Bitmesin istedim ama ayrılık vakti geldi. Keşke bir 3 kitap daha olsaydı seride 😔😢

Yoruma falan gerek yok, ilk 2 kitabı sevip okuyanlar zaten çıkar çıkmaz bunu da aldılar eminim. Yalnız o son 4-5 satırda eridim resmen. Son iki kitabın özeti olmuş. Sonu biraz daha uzasın isterdim ama ne kadar uzarsa uzasın yetmeyecekti yine de. Çok hüzünlü bir veda oldu benim için. (Hikaye sonu olarak değil, Vitale’ye veda etmem açısından 🙃) 🖤🖤🖤

[trestitia ⵊⵊⵊ deamorski · Rating 5 out of 5]

14. reading


“You’re beautiful, even when you’re not smiling.”



“Because I belong to you now.”
“No, because you belong with me. I decided to keep you that day, for better or for worse.”



“Maybe,” he repeats, pausing in front of the dresser, opening up the top drawer. Every muscle inside of me freezes up, my stomach in knots when he pulls out a thick leather belt. He wraps it around his fist as he turns back to me.
The look is on his face.
That look.
It has been a while since I’ve seen it, since he’s looked at me that way. Since he let his guard down and let the monster come out to play.
It’s thrilling.
Titillating.
Terrifying.



“I was going to take it easy on you,” he says, his voice low. “Lay you down on the bed and worship you, all day and all night. Kiss and caress every inch of you. Taste you with my tongue until you can’t take anymore. And then I was going to give it to you, deep and slow... make you come over and over again, until all you can do is whimper, cry my name.” His free hand, the one not clutching the belt, slowly ghosts along the front of my body, his fingertips brushing against my flushed skin. He runs the hand along my breasts before settling on my chest, over my heart. “You like it that way, don’t you? Like when I make you feel all of my love.”...“And I was going to love you right, remind you what it feels like to be cherished, to be idolized, to be treated like the queen you are. I was going to make serious love to you, baby.” I let out a shaky breath, and before I can even inhale again, his hand shifts. It’s a split second, barely a blink. His hand is around my neck, tightly squeezing, as he yanks me toward him, flush against him. “But now I think I’ll just fuck you instead.”



“You fucking love this, too, don’t you? You don’t need me to treat you like royalty to know what you mean to me. I can fuck you like this, fuck you like you’re nothing, and you still know you’re everything to me.”



“Don’t do it,” I say, my voice cracking, interrupting him.
Don’t you do it.
Don’t you say it.
Don’t make a notification over the phone.
Don’t make a notification, period, because I refuse to believe you need to notify me about anything. Tell me this is all a mistake, tell me you just happened upon her phone, but don’t you tell me the one thing… the one fucking thing… a homicide detective would notify someone for.
“Don’t tell me something happened to her,” I say, “not unless you want the world to burn.”



“I’ll always come for you. The fucking devil himself couldn’t stop me. It’ll just be a few hours, morning at the latest. I promise you, I’ll be back.”



“You love a sinner. If anything, that makes you a saint.”



“You were a lot more submissive before I married you.”



“You know I like it when you struggle.”



“Back… before… I would’ve just dragged you right back. But now, if you walk away from me, I suppose I just hope I don’t miss you.”
“You hope you don’t miss me?”
“Yeah, but I don’t think it would be a problem. After all, I’m a pretty good shot.”



A voice in the back of my mind tells me to stop her, reminds me she doesn’t belong on her knees, reminds me that after everything I’ve done, I should be the one worshiping her. She deserves it. But her mouth is on me before I can say anything, her lips wrapping around my cock as she takes me in, and I forget.



She’s staring at me again.
When did this woman get so fearless?



My natural instinct is to deny her, not because I think it might be tampered with, but because it frankly sounds disgusting. But I’m turning over a new leaf here, and I’ve already ended up at a fast food restaurant with my wife in her pajamas.
Why not humor her?



“I married you, so it’s sort of your job to give me a hard time.”



“He’s good looking… like, really good looking. I’m talking cover of GQ kind of good looking. It’s like, wow…”
“If you’re trying to get me to kill him, all you have to do is ask.”
Gasping, I elbow Naz. “Not funny. I would never. I’m just saying…”
“You’re saying he’s good looking.” He waves me off, like he doesn’t really care what I think about the guy’s looks, but I can tell by his expression that he does. Holy shit, is that jealousy I see? “Like I said, it’s all about perception.”
“Yeah, it is,” I agree quietly. “And yeah, he’s good looking, but he’s almost too good looking, you know? And he’s smart, and nice… really nice… generous…”
His tone is clipped as he cuts in. “I get the picture, Karissa.”
A smile tugs my lips. Definitely jealous.



“I’m the same man I always was. Just a little less preoccupied with murder.”



I walk out, and all I hear is laughter… loud, carefree laughter. Shaking my head, I can’t help the smile that fights to break free. It’s completely ridiculous. It’s probably the most absurd few minutes of my life. But the sound of her laughter, of her happiness, does to me something nothing else can.
It cuts straight through my darkness.
With her, I almost feel light.



He turns toward me right away, and all at once I can see the tension leave his shoulders as relief replaces it. Wow, I don’t think I’ve ever seen him look so uncomfortable.



“But just because you call me a good guy doesn’t mean I am one. It just means I’ve sufficiently Stockholm’ed you.”



Her gaze meets mine, and I watch as the rage fades away, melting straight to that goddamn heartbreak.
I hate it.
I hate seeing it.
But fuck, she’s beautiful.
Happy. Sad. Angry. Terrified.
She’s the most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen.
She’s beautiful because she’s strong.
Beautiful because she’s fierce.
Beautiful because, even when I hesitated, she didn’t.
She fought.
She fought hard.
And goddamn if that’s not beautiful to me…



My breath hitches. Oh God.
“I love that sound. It’s the best music in the world.”



I just press a kiss to her forehead before walking out.
Places to go.
People to see.
Blood to spill.

J. M. Darhower, I’m begging you, pls pls pls write a novel, a novella, a short story or just a fucking whatever want to call it, write about Lorenzo! I’m begging with my all heart, my soul and my existence.

AND THE DREAMS FUCKING CAME TRUE!


LORENZO "SCAR" FUCKING GAMBINI



Bunları dile getirdiğime göre türkiş yorumla geldim. (biliyorum ta ocakta okudum yazcam dedim evet ben hiç işimi düzgün yapamıyorum)

5+++ hatta 55+++

Şimdi kitaba dönersem, ikinci kez okuduğumda ki şu an siz bunları okurken ben 2. kitabın yarısını okuyorum, şunu fark ettim, 2. kitapta bi yer var (haha spoiler vermicem bu sefer) kitabı orada bitirip kalanını 3’e eklese daha güzel olurmuş. Aslında klasik serilerden bi farklı pek olmaz gibiydi ama bu kitap o kadar kısa ki yetmedi, daha fazla verin bana!

Ben sadece kitap okuyan bir manyak değilim çok fazla film de izliyorum (link profilde, imdb listesi), haliyle başkasının hikaye tabanından daha fazla olabiliyor bende. O yüzden bazen ben bir konuda bi kitap okumamışsam da izlemiş oluyorum.
Lafı niye uzattım, şu yüzden: kitap öyle bi başlayıp öyle bir bitiyor ki, efsane! tom cruise mesleğini bırakır, liam neeson intihar eder (ki bence de etsin), jason statham kamuoyundan özür diler. Bi grafik düşünün aksiyon artarken dram düşüyor ama kendi içinde artıyor, bu sefer dram hızlı bi çıkışa geçince aksiyon düşüşe geçiyor ama aslında kendi içinde artıyor. Yani bu, demin saydığım üç hollyboylarınkinde olduğu gibi fragmanlara koymalık abartılı sahneler yok. işte böyle artıyor artıyor ve BOOM!
Vitale ortalığın ağzına koyuyor!
Vitale beni kahrediyor!
İnançsız biri olsam Vitale’in bir heykelini yaptırıp ona taparım; o seviyeye getiriyor!

Bu herifin en sevdiğim yanı şu, asla değişmedi. “beni sen böyle ettin, süslü sözler kalpler çiçekler böcekler elmaslar, süpüdük süpüdük hareketler” YOK. SADECE TAMAMİYLE AÇTI KENDİNİ KARİSSA'YA, KADINA TESLİM OLDU ONU DA KENDİNE ESİR ETTİ. <3 <3 <3 Hanimiş Christian Greyler, hanimiş James Cavendishler asdfasdfsd nys özür dilerim.
Yani, ‘aman Karissa incinir’ diye mıymıntılaşmadı, çünkü gerek yok zaten. Zaten herif öyle süper ve mükemmel ve zeki ki, ta en başından beri Karissa’yı muhteşem tanımış. O yüzden ben, hiçbir zaman vitale’in yaptığı hareketlerde “oha aq napıyosun” demedim hele ki 2. kitabı okuduktan sonra. O yüzden bu kitapta da “yanlış, kaba, kötü, zalımca” olan hiçbir şeyin öyle olmadığı biliyorum. Nasıl desem, adam kaç beygir gücüyle itiş yapacağını biliyor karissa’nın içine girerken- size fazla gelse de, formula 1 sevmek gibi bişi. Ya da “sana aşık olmasam seni yanımda tutar mıyım, fururdum alnının çatından” gibi lafların yaralamayacağını biliyor, çünkü gerçek, çünkü öyle.
İkincisi, aşkitomun yumuşadığını asla düşünmedim, Vitale yanından bahsediyorum. Karissa için gerek Karissa’ya gerek başkalarına tanıdığı imtiyazlar, vazgeçişler, artık olmadıkları anlamına gelmiyor. ***HAHAHA çok fena yanıldınız orospu çocuğu pezevenkler geberin HAHAHA***

Adam kendi sınırlarını d çok iyi biliyor, Karissa’ya da kendininkini çok güzel öğretmiş. kızınkini de çok iyi biliyor, o yüzden kitapta “nasıl olur aq nası yapar” diye verdiğiniz tepkileri vermeyin. Öyle. Napıcan, sana ters diye yargılıcan mı?

Bu adamın canavar tarafını mı, karanlık seks tarafını mı, acılar içindeki tarafını mı yoksa tapan bir aşık tarafını mı yoksa sugar daddy tarafını mı yoksa aramızdaki yaş farkından dolayı hissettiğim o 'yuva' tarafını mı daha çok seviyorum bilmiyorum.
Elinde deri eldivenleriyle bıçağını tutarken seviyorum, kemerle nefesini kesmesini seviyorum, çoraplarıyla dışarı fırlamasını seviyorum, dizlerinin üstünde dilini kullanırken seviyorum.
telefon zil sesini seviyorum.
Ya herifin en güzel şeyi, çatur çutur, ağız dolusu, dolandırmadan, süslemeden, dosdoğru seni seviyorum demesi ama sadece bir seni seviyorumla da kalbinizi sikmesi. Bu yani. Ötesi berisi var mı, var. mesela kızın atar yaptığı anlarda herifin daha da çok aşık olması, atar yaptıkça herifin tatlı bir sarhoşluk içinde yüzmesi, mesela yani.

Ya rabbül alemin! Niçin böyle mükemmel?

Karissa’nın bazı gerizekalılıklarını yaşına ve ardarda yaşadığı şoklara veriyorum. Haricinde, ben de kendime inanamasam da seviyorum bu kızı. Ben insanın ne olursa olsun duygularını –ne olursa olsun o duygu- bundan kaçmamasını ve ona göre davranması taraftayım. O da aynen öyle yaptı.

Kitaba gelirsem:
1. Olaylar, her gerilim ve aksiyonda göreceğiniz şeyler klişe diyebilirsiniz yani, ama benim böyle sevmemin nedeni olayların beklenmedik anlarda, beklenmedik zamanlarda gelmesi. Ve bu sırada karakterlerin bunları yaşarkenki halleri, abi hakketten güzel.
2. Abi seks yok. Ay bölüm sonu seviştireyim, ya dur şurda da yapsınlar, barışma seksi, kurtulma seksi falan yok. Kitaptaki her sevişme sahnesinin, tüm şiddeti ve keskinliğiyle çok yerinde ve muntazam yazıldığını düşünüyordum. zaten 2. kitapta da demiştim, bu çift o zamandan "sonsuza kadar birlikte" evresine geçmişlerdi.

Çok çok daha yazarım da, şu belirteyim; ben ne dersem deyim, kitabın anahtar kelimeleri sizlik değilse sizlik bi kitap değildir- her kitapta olduğu gibi. Hele vitale gibi biri, mümkün değil ağzıyla kuş tutsa yaranamaz ama benim eli kanlı, otuzlu yaşarında (otuzlar sonu da olur), aşkından acı çeken, az konuşan, somurtkan, kalp durdurarak gülen, ciddi, emir verip duran, iyi sevişen, karanlık erkek fetişim var. bunlar ayrı ayrılar tabi de herifte tek bir et kemikle vücut bulmuş durumda. bu da beni canavar yapar.

Herifin şu nefes mevzusu… allah kahretsin ya lanet olsun! Bu mevzu olmasa belki böyle etkilenmeyeciiim :(

« Don't you do it.
Don't you say it.
Don't make a notification over the phone.
“Don't tell me something happened to her, not unless you want the world to burn.” »
xoxo
iko

[Catarina · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Final Stars.

Target on our backs bring us the third and last instalment of the “Monster in His Eyes” Series and the very much wanted final of Naz and Karissa’s story.
We al know that Naz has a dirty past and that he committed many sins, until he met Karissa and tried to become a better person. But as much he wants to get rid of his past… his past is not ready to let him go and someone his decided to keep pushing him.
But this time Naz has a lot to lose and his not willing to let it, so if it’s past wants to get him, it will have to come through him first.



This book was a great and completely unexpected surprise, I found out about its existence only after its release and to be honest I wasn’t expecting, at all, a third book in this series. Although you’ll not hear me complain about it.
I’m not the biggest fan of dark romance, I have to be a in a very special mood to like them and even so it’s not a safe bet, but somehow JM Darhower has a way of making me fall in love with her books, not matter the genre or the content. This series are not for the eyes of the fluffy and contemporary romance fans, but you if like a ride on a darker and more mysterious side and don’t mind a little of mafia violence, this series will be right up your alley. This was a great ending to an amazing series and if you haven’t started it yet… what the hell are you waiting for?


Rating: 4 Stars.
Characters Development: Naz was your usual broody, over-protective and dark hero. Which means impossible not to fall in love with him. Karissa was sweet and now she’s finally got rid of all her past-related anger, it’s easier to like her. (Although she did have a right to be angry!)
Steam: Hot.
Sensible Subjects: Death. Violence.
Love Triangle: No.
Cheating: No.
HEA: Yes.

[Meredith is a hot mess · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm speechless. I figured I would like this book (I enjoyed the first two in the series a couple years ago), but I was not expecting it to be this good. The writing was excellent. Cleverly plotted, clever foreshadowing, clever red herrings & misdirections. I was on the edge of my seat reading, with a feeling of dread & heavy foreboding from the beginning to the very end. This is everything I want in a mafia romance. I know I'm going to suffer a serious book hangover after this. It's not just going to be difficult for me to find another mafia romance that's as good as this one - but even from the author's own catalogue, I'm afraid. From what I've read of this author, I think this might be her best book. I want to go into detail about why this book worked out so well for me, but it's 5 AM. Full review to come later.



Random notes (spoilers!):

-Morally ambiguous anti hero. A pet peeve I have is the H in mafia who talks big, but the author shows no action. Naz hardly ever talks and then all of the sudden the author will graphically describe him brutally murdering/torturing someone. That side of him is sick and the author did not shy away from it.

-Morally ambiguous heroine. (Well the only thing that makes her morally ambiguous is that she's with Naz knowing full well what he's done). Karissa was a breath of fresh coming from CD Reiss' Mafia Bride series. No ott feminist themes in this book. Karissa is just like, 'The sex is good, I love him (it's totally Stockholm syndrome), and I'm not enjoying NYU. I'll just drop out and be a wife and mother.' I don't get her naivety, but hey, this is mafia romance. I'm not reading this to get some message from the author about female empowerment.

-There was humour and realistic moments in the story that reminded me of when I was dating in college. The Ramen noodles, music, little interpersonal interactions the couple had together --this really helped make the book for me. Also Karissa was v. naive, but that's realistic for her age-group. I can see her annoying some other readers, but she didn't bother me and I mainly found her naivety funny. How the age-gap was played by the author was humorous.

-Writing style detailed, well-formed characters (even side characters) that are unique and memorable. This is a trait I've seen with other successful authors like Penelope Douglas, Angel Lawson & Samantha Rue.

-Pregnancy subplots are some of my least favorite in dark romance, but I actually enjoyed it here and teared up at one point.

-The plot was plausible. There was realism & authenticity within this book. Sure there were unrealistic & OTT moments but it balanced out.

-The Godfather homages were brilliant. The author somehow pulled it off without taking her book too seriously or writing clichés. Even the action scenes and violence were reminiscent of some of the famous mafia movies in the best way. This author has a cinematic writing style. Every book I've read by this author I've visualized in my head like a movie. This happens when the writing style is almost flawless and I'm not taken out of the story by any mistakes with plotting/characterization/etc. I'm overall pleasantly surprised and impressed with at how good of a job the author did executing this story.

[Formerly Known as Spoiler W · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm convinced JM can do no wrong.

"A leopard doesn't change it's spots."

Well no shit. Ignazio Vitale is not a good man. He's done unimaginable things to get his revenge from his past. But with his future with Karissa, he's trying to be a better man. In the mafia world, he was technically never in but he was technically never out. He never gave his word and subsequently this will cause problems. A new player will come into town drawing suspicion and wreaking havoc to a rule abiding mafia family. In the suspense aspect Target on Our Backs, everything was on point. Is this new player a threat or has the threat been there all along but we never saw it? Just as it seems that things can be "normal" for Naz and Karissa, something comes up. It's never ending.

"My eyes sting, and I close them as I lay my head back, stealing a moment of darkness to try to find some peace.
Peace.
Peace.
All I fucking want is some peace."

Will any threats be over for Naz? Yes and No. Once you're part of something huge as the mafia, you'll always have that target on your back. As certain events become to unfold it's clearly seen that a change is needed but before this change, one must make a statement and I think it comes across pretty clearly.

"Don't tell me something happened to her not unless you want the world to burn."

Ignazio and Karissa's love and chemistry, again, are on point. I love how they both know each other yet they are still learning new things about each other. I love how they can make each other laugh and love what they can say or do to turn it up a notch in the sex department.

"You did good," he whispers.
"Yeah?" I ask, surprised. "I wasn't sure. Never had my throat fucked before..."

Target on Our Backs is a perfect ending to Ignazio and Karissa. Goodbyes are hard and the emotional part of me silently bawled. BUT I know something you don't know so I'm keeping that to myself until it's revealed.

*ARC provided by author*

[Vanessa Booked Up · Rating 5 out of 5]

5+++ Vitale Stars!!!

"You love a sinner. If anything, that makes you a saint."

Naz is back, so yeah, prepare for massive amounts of incoherent fan-girling ahead...

This was me every time Naz came into a scene in this book, hell...in the WHOLE DAMN SERIES!!!



Omg!!! Above and beyond any expectations I had. This woman is a GENIUS!!! She dominates Mafia storytelling like no other. I didn't realize how UNfinished Naz's story was. The absolute perfect conclusion to their story.

There really isn't much I can say without giving stuff away. This third and final installment to the Monster in His Eyes Series opens up to us seeing Naz and Karissa living a fairly normal life, and Naz being "as out as he can be." Which, unfortunately, isn't very out. We meet a lot of new players, and of course, in typical Darhower fashion, we get MANY more layers to the story we've already been told.

Probably my favorite new player? Lorenzo Gambini! I mean, let me be clear, I think he's batshit crazy and unhinged but in a super fascinating way, and damn it, I sooooo hope we get to see more of him.

The scenes with the One Direction ring tone and the one with the Bell Biv Devoe song Poison were PRICELESS!!! Lol! A very welcome treat in the middle of the mayhem. And HOTT... there ain't a whole lot hotter than picturing Naz mouthing the words to THAT song! =)

The fucking boy band.
I silence it, pressing the button on the side, just to stop the annoying blaring. Karissa's face is plastered on the screen, and as much as I hate doing it, I ignore her call.
Now's not the time for it.
Slipping the phone back away, I glance at Lorenzo. His eyes are wide, the orange halfway to his mouth like he's forgotten about everything else for the moment.
"Was that...?" He gapes at me. "What was that? Do I even want to know?"
"No," I admit, "you don't."

Bahahahaha!!!

What can I say? Besides Corrado Moretti, Naz is my all time fave Darhower hero, or anti-hero I should say. He's one of these men who can turn you THE HELL on and scare the ever-loving-shit out of you at the same time. He's not just another flawed character. You feel his everyday struggles, his grief, his demons. His characterization has always been flawless.

"Don't tell me something happened to her," I say, "not unless you want the world to burn."

"You fucking love this, too, don't you?" he asks, his voice low, strained. "You don't need me to treat you like royalty to know what you mean to me. I can fuck you like this, fuck you like you're nothing, and you still know you're everything to me."

OMG, and that scene in the um, alley? The one with Naz and Karissa...not the other one. LOL!



And for as much as I love him, I love Karissa almost as much and always have. She's been as accepting as anyone could be of Naz, his life, and who he is. I love that their romance doesn't have to be filled with a ton of the lovey dovey for the reader to get them. But their unconditional love for each other is there, and it's beautiful.

Gah, Melody, Leo, Killer, Detective Jameson....Giuseppe. My heart!! With five or six strategically placed words, this author can reduce me to a pathetic pile of snot-faced tears!! Such a vivid story, with such REAL characters. There's a reason that JM Darhower is my #1 favorite author. Her stories suck you up and catapult you into her world. And you feel EVERYTHING. At the end, I'm always left a little sad, though. Like a great party is over and I miss my friends. Until she does it to us again.... So until then, I'll be here waiting, and maybe re-reading this whole series. <3

"I'll always come for you," I tell her. "The fucking devil himself couldn't stop me."

Bottom line?

[Beatrice · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an EPIC FINALE and I freaking love every moment! Out of the three books in Monster in His Eyes trilogy, this is the best one and it's wrapped up perfectly. Unlike the previous books, Target on Our Backsis told in dual perspective. There's more suspense, thrilling action, off-the-charts romance and mafia related events in this book. I can't put this book down and I'm totally hooked with its story.

[Mild spoilers ahead.]

Naz promises to be a good man for Karissa and stay off from the dangerous lifestyle to protect her until his last breath. However, his past can't be changed where he did bad things and there are moments he's lured back into the old lifestyle especially when someone tries to hunt him down. As if he'll let that happen. In every battle, he's going to make sure he wins. Karissa is aware of his actions no matter how hard he tries to hide it. She is an understanding, patient, and genuine lady and she loves Naz despite of his flaws.

Naz and Karissa are adjusting on their married life. It will be forever etched on my mind that a tough assassin like Naz sets "Hotline Bling" by Drake as his ringtone. This man has a soft spot for Drake's songs. Hahaha!! Hands DOWN! He's still a merciless assassin by the way, I just can't get over his ringtone. He'll unleash hell if someone set a "Bieber twit" song as his ringtone -- his words, not mine. Naz and Karissa's chemistry is off the charts hot! It's sexy, romantic, passionate and sweet. Ahhhh, I just love these two so much and I'll miss them.

I have a strong fascination with this new character, Lorenzo Gambini. He's badass and lethal. Damn this man, he throws a grenade like a party popper. I want more of him. I love his loyalty to Naz (though he can't really trusts someone in the mafia world but I believe Lorenzo will not hurt Naz or his love ones at any cost).

Overall, this is an amazing conclusion to the trilogy. I'm satisfied with the epilogue and I'll miss everything about this series. It's nice to see them find a peaceful, happy life. They truly deserved one after all the heartaches and vendettas.

[SusanAhh · Rating 5 out of 5]

“He's a force of nature.”


Naturally when you are as enamored of a character as I am with Ignazio Vitale, (Naz), you just cannot let this the final book written about Karissa and Naz Vitale’s love story go unread. True to form, Ms. Dahower writes a powerful and riveting final chapter in this breathtaking romance.

Naz remains an enigmatic character while he is attempting to change his ways as much as he is able. Even though he has never pledged an oath to any crime family boss, it is still somewhat of dicey venture to extricate himself completely and fully from his criminal past and those with whom he has done business.

Karissa notices that Naz is trying his best to change but she also knows he is doing this mostly for her. Whatever the reason or motivation for the change in Naz coupled with his willingness to leave his life of murder and mayhem, are proof enough for Karissa that Naz is indeed, redeemable. This willingness to start anew and the intense love he has for her are also evidence enough for Karissa that he is not entirely a bad man as he maintains. Karissa even defends the changes in Naz to his estranged father.


The consequences of his past actions are laid at the door of his father’s business, when this business is the target of a drive-by shooting. Former street soldiers of Ray Angelo’s organization are turning up executed and Ray’s former haunts are targets of arson. Naz is certain that the “cappo” making these aggressive moves for Ray's territory, which was left in a vacuum by Naz killing Ray Angelo, will also target Naz and his beloved.

The storyline is imbued with intrigue as dark forces compete for power and consolidation of criminal rule over New York City. Despite Naz’s desire to remove himself from the criminal life, he first needs to tie up some loose ends

Karissa comes face-to-face with judgements that are being made about her by her peer group at NYU. It is noticed that people die and disappear around her and that she was shot by a gangster. She feels guilt. Guilt that Naz is trying to alleviate by being a better man.

Whatever the questions Karissa and Naz have inside their relationship and the forces at work around them, there is no doubt that they are wholly, completely and utterly in love. This love is beautifully portrayed in the electrifying and torrid erotic love scenes. Nothing makes the heart beat faster than a seriously smitten Alpha-male bad boy!!!


The story is told in first person alternating POVs. Once all the framework and plot points are laid, the story begins to pick up pace in a dramatic turn of events that culminate in an exciting climax…a most revealing one at that.

If you enjoy your heroes on the “dark side” …your heroines strong but made a little blind by love…the lovemaking tough, as well as, tender…and some criminal suspense from the viewpoint of the less evil criminal then…this series is one which will bring you hours of enjoyment. And for me it brought a new BBF I am crazy about…Naz!!!

“But it's always a possibility, every time somebody leaves, that it might be the last time you ever see them. It might be the last time they grace your world.”

“He makes love to me then, like only Naz can, alternating between slow and deep and rough and hard, sending me into a tailspin. It's a breath-catching, skin-slapping, soul-capturing kind of love. The man owns me. He consumes me. Every part of me was made for every part of him. It's the kind of love I can't imagine ever living without. It's raw, and real, and it's ours.”

[Grecia Robles · Rating 4 out of 5]

**** 4 STARS****

No puedo creer que haya tardado 9 meses en terminar esta trilogía y precisamente este libro duré 5 meses y es que creo que en la vida como en los libros es de momentos, porque los libros anteriores no me gustaron tanto y me forcé a leerlos en cambio este lo abandoné si dos veces y ahora que lo volvía retomar ahora sí me gustó mucho era el momento y lo disfruté

Y si estoy muy feliz por haberlo terminado y ya no volverlo a ver en mi currently Reading



En los libros pasados la pareja de Karissa y Naz no me gustaba simplemente no los veía juntos y creo que en éste no me hizo tanto ruido ese aspecto porque el ritmo del libro no te da un descanso siempre está sucediendo algo que te tiene en suspenso o que te hace reír y es que J.M. Darhower tiene una gran escritura.

Naz me pareció ahora más relajado y comparte mí no gusto por Justin Bieber, cuando Karissa le quiere cambiar el rigntone él le dice todos excepto Bieber y dije tú eres de los míos



Melody es mi personaje favorito de esta trilogía cada vez que salía me moría de la risa con sus conversaciones ingeniosas y a veces hasta tontas, así que si en un futuro tiene libro no me quejo.



Pero el que se robó todo el show de este libro es Lorenzo, ese chico medio loco, y quedé un poco coladita por él así que obviamente voy a leer sus libros



La escena de Killer y Naz al final me encantó

[Lea ★ · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 stars*****
EPIC!

Ladies and gentleman, Ignazio Vitale is back, and he is dangerously delicious and as awesome as ever!
My God, I have a serious book hangover.
I will never grow tired of reading about Ignazio and Karissa, so J.M. Darhower, I kinda hope this won't be the last book in the series.
I guess I could say that criminals make the best book boyfriends, at least in this case :)
Ignazio can put all mafia romance heroes to shame.
Monster in His Eyes is one of my favourite mafia/mob/organised crime series.
Most of all, I enjoyed the dialogs between Ignazio and Karissa. Their interactions are at moments so emotional, but at the same time sexy, funny and raw. It is something completely different and you just have to read it to experience it.
I love J.M Darhower writing, and apart from great character development, and believable dialogue, situations she creates will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
If you like Italian Mob Romance genre with protective alpha male, don't miss out on this series.

[Mandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Perfect ending to an amazing series! Honestly, it was just completely brilliant. This had me so anxious, the suspense was so intense. The sexy times were super hot as they have been throughout this whole series. This was perfect and I can't recommend this series enough - it's a top favorite and a fantastic story!

2/25/16 This book was such a great ending to this series I've already re-read it! Seriously, it was just as good the 2nd time around. This is a must read series - absolutely brilliant!

3/3/16 My love for this book is now borderline obsessive. I've re-read this like 5 times and I'm addicted to Naz. Not really sure what that says about me but he's my favorite book boyfriend ever. If you haven't read this series, you should stop everything you're doing right now and read it.