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Pagano Family #6
Miracle
THE CONCLUSION OF THE PAGANO FAMILY SERIES.
Joey Pagano was left disabled following a violent moment in his family’s history, a moment he chose to be a part of. During the past ten years of a life he’s only half lived, all of his brothers and sisters have gotten married and made families of their own, but Joey’s had no one. Before he was hurt, he was the carefree family clown, living a life of privilege and excess, with any girl he wanted hanging on his arm. Now he’s resigned himself to being alone. He’s given up.
Tina Corti grew up in Quiet Cove, just like Joey. She’s known him most of her life, though she hasn’t seen much of him since his troubles. No longer the daydreaming schoolgirl with a crush on her oldest brother’s best friend, Tina has worked hard to accomplish her goals. She wants to make a difference, to do her part, for her family and the world. She’s stretched her wings beyond the Cove, but she’s kept her roots firmly in place.
A chance meeting kindles a fragile friendship. Joey, scarred in body and soul, is guarded. But Tina’s gentle optimism and patience give him room and cause to trust, to love, to breathe. She brings him back to life.
Before they can settle into their love and imagine a happy life together, their families bring violence into their world again, and Joey will have to return the favor.
Note: explicit sex and violence.
Joey Pagano was left disabled following a violent moment in his family’s history, a moment he chose to be a part of. During the past ten years of a life he’s only half lived, all of his brothers and sisters have gotten married and made families of their own, but Joey’s had no one. Before he was hurt, he was the carefree family clown, living a life of privilege and excess, with any girl he wanted hanging on his arm. Now he’s resigned himself to being alone. He’s given up.
Tina Corti grew up in Quiet Cove, just like Joey. She’s known him most of her life, though she hasn’t seen much of him since his troubles. No longer the daydreaming schoolgirl with a crush on her oldest brother’s best friend, Tina has worked hard to accomplish her goals. She wants to make a difference, to do her part, for her family and the world. She’s stretched her wings beyond the Cove, but she’s kept her roots firmly in place.
A chance meeting kindles a fragile friendship. Joey, scarred in body and soul, is guarded. But Tina’s gentle optimism and patience give him room and cause to trust, to love, to breathe. She brings him back to life.
Before they can settle into their love and imagine a happy life together, their families bring violence into their world again, and Joey will have to return the favor.
Note: explicit sex and violence.
353 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 6, 2016
8 people are currently reading
152 people want to read
About the author
Susan Fanetti
84 books1,419 followersI was born and raised in the Midwest, but I was transplanted into the dusty soil of Northern California and have apparently taken root there. An inveterate geek and gamer, I am a fan of many things considered pop culture and maybe even lowbrow.
As a reader, my favorite genres are science fiction and fantasy, but as a writer, I've found my home in romance--or perhaps it's better to say simply "love stories." I have a yen to try other genres, too, at some point, but for now my muse wants to tell stories about lovers and families.
I write for the joy of it, and I write stories that I want to read. If others like them, too, that's just the cherry on top. I’m not interested in rules and formulae. I follow my muse and my characters and let them take me where they want to go, wherever that might be. I like big emotions, dark and light.
I like complicated characters with flaws and weaknesses as well as strengths, and I like each character’s strengths and weaknesses to be different from those of other characters. I’m much more concerned that my characters be interesting and diverse than that they be widely considered to be likable. I try to create people, not types.
Likewise, I want my stories each to be distinct from the others. Once I’ve told a story, I don’t want to tell it again. So even within a series, one of my books might be very different from the next. Some might be very dark, others equally mild.
That isn’t to say there aren’t trends and recurrences in my work. I’m drawn to certain themes and settings, and my muse has her favorite toys and tools. But I guard against those tendencies becoming a formula.
Find my blog at www.susanfanetti.com
Find my FB author page: https://www.facebook.com/authorsusanf...
A note: I don't spend much time here on Goodreads. I try not to read any reviews of my own work. Besides, this is a site for readers, but since I write at a fairly manic pace, and read and edit for other writers, I don't have much time to read recreationally. Mainly, I log on to update my info. So if you message me here, it might be a while before I see it.
As a reader, my favorite genres are science fiction and fantasy, but as a writer, I've found my home in romance--or perhaps it's better to say simply "love stories." I have a yen to try other genres, too, at some point, but for now my muse wants to tell stories about lovers and families.
I write for the joy of it, and I write stories that I want to read. If others like them, too, that's just the cherry on top. I’m not interested in rules and formulae. I follow my muse and my characters and let them take me where they want to go, wherever that might be. I like big emotions, dark and light.
I like complicated characters with flaws and weaknesses as well as strengths, and I like each character’s strengths and weaknesses to be different from those of other characters. I’m much more concerned that my characters be interesting and diverse than that they be widely considered to be likable. I try to create people, not types.
Likewise, I want my stories each to be distinct from the others. Once I’ve told a story, I don’t want to tell it again. So even within a series, one of my books might be very different from the next. Some might be very dark, others equally mild.
That isn’t to say there aren’t trends and recurrences in my work. I’m drawn to certain themes and settings, and my muse has her favorite toys and tools. But I guard against those tendencies becoming a formula.
Find my blog at www.susanfanetti.com
Find my FB author page: https://www.facebook.com/authorsusanf...
A note: I don't spend much time here on Goodreads. I try not to read any reviews of my own work. Besides, this is a site for readers, but since I write at a fairly manic pace, and read and edit for other writers, I don't have much time to read recreationally. Mainly, I log on to update my info. So if you message me here, it might be a while before I see it.
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December 28, 2023
2023
Needing some space to regroup, I took a ride back to re-discover books and authors that touched me and wouldn't let go. This is another side of Ms. Fanetti.
2016
4.5 We Don't Need Perfect to Love Perfectly Stars
* * * *1/2 Spoiler Free
My title really says it all for me with this book and series. Susan Fanetti created a family that was anything but perfect. They had branches that twisted to the dark side yet had a bond that would always come together no matter what. Their stories weren't always pretty, tied with bows...In fact, all of the books had grit, pain, and challenges...But oh, the love...the love these people had for each other and the ones they wanted to live their lives with...that love was magnificent and in this last entry, it was not only equal... it was one of the best.
Our focus is on the last brother, Joey. Joey, the lost one... the one who always felt deep down not fully part of the Pagano Family. Oh, he was... through and through...but in his heart and soul...he somehow felt a disconnect. Losing his mother while young, had a lot to do with it. Being the youngest in a loud, strong personality-driven group can pigeonhole siblings... label them and then the family only sees them that way.
And with the tag as Goofy, Clown, Out of Control Joey...he lived up to his title. He was brash; he was handsome and full of his physical power. He also needed to feel like he mattered... to make the family SEE him. His idea of making an impact was to do exactly what his father didn't want...
He went and stood by the dark branch of the family... the violent side. It was a young man's rebellion and during a very difficult time between families and outsiders....Joey got caught in the crossfire.
Gone was the manchild who was in your face and fun. Gone was the surfer and gym rat...gone was the man he pretended to be. His injuries were serious and very real. They were the type which made the day to day things we all take for granted...Breathing with ease, work.
Yes, Joey had to relearn how to breathe and accept an oxygen tank would always be nearby. He had to pace himself and most difficult of all, find his words. His situation was such that words could dance in his head... but not line up correctly for him to say them without difficulty. These are things we don't think about...ever... and Joey had to relearn everything, knowing there was only so much progress he could achieve.
At first, he did all the therapy, got a bit of a handle on it, and was doing basically fine. In the family business, Joey learned the scheduling and managing the way the crews would do all of the construction projects. He was strong in his communication through writing and the brothers picked up the phones so Joey didn't have to...things were going forward until Joey got hit with a bad turn and regressed all of his accomplishments to be reduced to just a couple of words.
There was also other issues happening... the family never was patient...with how they talked to one another or in actions...These things were magnified now for Joey...and he had no way or even interest in trying to get them to understand he was capable to contribute...if they would just slow down and give him a chance...
With all of these factors...Joey gave up...and was just marking time. The family was at a loss and had other issues to deal with... their beloved father was dying...and everything was heightened... all events, holidays...everything had more meaning as they would be his last.
We are at John's wedding with Joey having a pre-panic attack up at the alter just as the bride is coming down the aisle. He rushes out of the church giving the rings to Carlos and gets to his oxygen tank before it is too late. He knows this is bad...he has shamed himself and the family. His brother won't confront him about it until a couple of weeks later...and has a real Pagano moment with him. Tells him to figure out how to stop being this whiny coward and man up... because what he is doing is hurting their father's last days. Somehow this gets through to Joey's heart.
He goes to the Therapy Center, meets with his main doctor and she reads him the riot act. Explains if he is going work to get stronger, he will need a team of specialists working with him... and he needs to commit to it... He balks when a shrink gets added to the list...but finally agrees to all of it.
It is after his first session with the speech therapist, physical trainer, and nutritionist, Joey sees Tina Corti and he cannot look away. He remembers how she was the younger girl who had this cute crush on him...now she is seeing him like this...
Tina is a therapist and works with those who have experienced great trauma. Her thesis is on the use of animals as a way to assist in healing and reaching those unreachable. Her seeing Joey is a surprise as no one has seen him out and about... but not because he was at the center. Everyone was aware of the accident and it having a permanent effect on him.
Toni calls out Joey's name and after a sort of awkward exchange, Joey agrees to go to coffee with her. There at the table...they reconnect... and Toni is seeing her crush all grown up...in this form, stripped of the brash mask he used to wear...Toni still sees what had first captured her heart, though... that look in Joey's eyes... that hurt lonely soul trapped inside. It still called out to her.
Joey is almost in panic mode...Talking with Toni has reawakened him... feeling like a man and not an invalid...yet that invalid which he thinks he sometimes is... is stopping him from just being in the moment...They say goodbye and during an attempt of Toni to either hug or give a kiss on Joey's cheek... things go sideways.
Joey's condition can cause him to flip from breathing ok to not being able to breathe at all...It was embarrassing for him...and after he recovers...he is left knowing he must follow his workouts, therapy, and counseling if he is to have a life.
Tina Corti was a blast from his past and Joey being there right in front of her made time stop for her. There in the waiting room was the man she had crushed on for most of her teen life.
Toni knows of Joey's difficulties and they do not turn her away. Her mother suffered a terrible stroke taking away her ability to communicate normally. She is locked in a body that only allows blinking an eye as conversing. A stunning woman who cared for her family, she is still the rock for them all and they sit with her, tend to her, and love her completely.
Joey's issues are real, Toni knows this... but as she sees him and he allows himself to open up more with her...There is a possibility for both of them to find the love they both want and need.
With this being the last entry to this series, Fanetti did not hold back... she gave us everything she could to keep it Real and Pagano. The happy with the devastating... for that is the Fanetti way.
I wouldn't have it any other.
Footsteps (Pagano Family, #1)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
-Touch (Pagano Family, #2)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
(Pagano Family, #3)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Deep (Pagano Family, #4)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Prayer (Pagano Family, #5)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Miracle (Pagano Family, #6)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
The Pagano Family: The Complete Series (Pagano Family, #1-6)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
~~~~~ Before Reading ~~~~~
My time has come to walk the road and finish this series...
●•●•●•●•●•●•●
From the beginning, we have seen it all...
We watched Joey falter and fall...
We have held our breath...
Held our words and prayed for him to rebound...
To find his way back...
Will he?
Miracle (Pagano Family, #6) August 6th 2016
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
Needing some space to regroup, I took a ride back to re-discover books and authors that touched me and wouldn't let go. This is another side of Ms. Fanetti.
2016
4.5 We Don't Need Perfect to Love Perfectly Stars
* * * *1/2 Spoiler Free
My title really says it all for me with this book and series. Susan Fanetti created a family that was anything but perfect. They had branches that twisted to the dark side yet had a bond that would always come together no matter what. Their stories weren't always pretty, tied with bows...In fact, all of the books had grit, pain, and challenges...But oh, the love...the love these people had for each other and the ones they wanted to live their lives with...that love was magnificent and in this last entry, it was not only equal... it was one of the best.
Our focus is on the last brother, Joey. Joey, the lost one... the one who always felt deep down not fully part of the Pagano Family. Oh, he was... through and through...but in his heart and soul...he somehow felt a disconnect. Losing his mother while young, had a lot to do with it. Being the youngest in a loud, strong personality-driven group can pigeonhole siblings... label them and then the family only sees them that way.
And with the tag as Goofy, Clown, Out of Control Joey...he lived up to his title. He was brash; he was handsome and full of his physical power. He also needed to feel like he mattered... to make the family SEE him. His idea of making an impact was to do exactly what his father didn't want...
He went and stood by the dark branch of the family... the violent side. It was a young man's rebellion and during a very difficult time between families and outsiders....Joey got caught in the crossfire.
Gone was the manchild who was in your face and fun. Gone was the surfer and gym rat...gone was the man he pretended to be. His injuries were serious and very real. They were the type which made the day to day things we all take for granted...Breathing with ease, work.
Yes, Joey had to relearn how to breathe and accept an oxygen tank would always be nearby. He had to pace himself and most difficult of all, find his words. His situation was such that words could dance in his head... but not line up correctly for him to say them without difficulty. These are things we don't think about...ever... and Joey had to relearn everything, knowing there was only so much progress he could achieve.
At first, he did all the therapy, got a bit of a handle on it, and was doing basically fine. In the family business, Joey learned the scheduling and managing the way the crews would do all of the construction projects. He was strong in his communication through writing and the brothers picked up the phones so Joey didn't have to...things were going forward until Joey got hit with a bad turn and regressed all of his accomplishments to be reduced to just a couple of words.
There was also other issues happening... the family never was patient...with how they talked to one another or in actions...These things were magnified now for Joey...and he had no way or even interest in trying to get them to understand he was capable to contribute...if they would just slow down and give him a chance...
With all of these factors...Joey gave up...and was just marking time. The family was at a loss and had other issues to deal with... their beloved father was dying...and everything was heightened... all events, holidays...everything had more meaning as they would be his last.
We are at John's wedding with Joey having a pre-panic attack up at the alter just as the bride is coming down the aisle. He rushes out of the church giving the rings to Carlos and gets to his oxygen tank before it is too late. He knows this is bad...he has shamed himself and the family. His brother won't confront him about it until a couple of weeks later...and has a real Pagano moment with him. Tells him to figure out how to stop being this whiny coward and man up... because what he is doing is hurting their father's last days. Somehow this gets through to Joey's heart.
He goes to the Therapy Center, meets with his main doctor and she reads him the riot act. Explains if he is going work to get stronger, he will need a team of specialists working with him... and he needs to commit to it... He balks when a shrink gets added to the list...but finally agrees to all of it.
It is after his first session with the speech therapist, physical trainer, and nutritionist, Joey sees Tina Corti and he cannot look away. He remembers how she was the younger girl who had this cute crush on him...now she is seeing him like this...
Tina is a therapist and works with those who have experienced great trauma. Her thesis is on the use of animals as a way to assist in healing and reaching those unreachable. Her seeing Joey is a surprise as no one has seen him out and about... but not because he was at the center. Everyone was aware of the accident and it having a permanent effect on him.
Toni calls out Joey's name and after a sort of awkward exchange, Joey agrees to go to coffee with her. There at the table...they reconnect... and Toni is seeing her crush all grown up...in this form, stripped of the brash mask he used to wear...Toni still sees what had first captured her heart, though... that look in Joey's eyes... that hurt lonely soul trapped inside. It still called out to her.
Joey is almost in panic mode...Talking with Toni has reawakened him... feeling like a man and not an invalid...yet that invalid which he thinks he sometimes is... is stopping him from just being in the moment...They say goodbye and during an attempt of Toni to either hug or give a kiss on Joey's cheek... things go sideways.
Joey's condition can cause him to flip from breathing ok to not being able to breathe at all...It was embarrassing for him...and after he recovers...he is left knowing he must follow his workouts, therapy, and counseling if he is to have a life.
Tina Corti was a blast from his past and Joey being there right in front of her made time stop for her. There in the waiting room was the man she had crushed on for most of her teen life.
Toni knows of Joey's difficulties and they do not turn her away. Her mother suffered a terrible stroke taking away her ability to communicate normally. She is locked in a body that only allows blinking an eye as conversing. A stunning woman who cared for her family, she is still the rock for them all and they sit with her, tend to her, and love her completely.
Joey's issues are real, Toni knows this... but as she sees him and he allows himself to open up more with her...There is a possibility for both of them to find the love they both want and need.
With this being the last entry to this series, Fanetti did not hold back... she gave us everything she could to keep it Real and Pagano. The happy with the devastating... for that is the Fanetti way.
I wouldn't have it any other.
Footsteps (Pagano Family, #1)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
-Touch (Pagano Family, #2)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
(Pagano Family, #3)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Deep (Pagano Family, #4)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Prayer (Pagano Family, #5)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Miracle (Pagano Family, #6)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
The Pagano Family: The Complete Series (Pagano Family, #1-6)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
~~~~~ Before Reading ~~~~~
My time has come to walk the road and finish this series...
●•●•●•●•●•●•●
From the beginning, we have seen it all...
We watched Joey falter and fall...
We have held our breath...
Held our words and prayed for him to rebound...
To find his way back...
Will he?
Miracle (Pagano Family, #6) August 6th 2016
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
September 2, 2016
Just a tad bit excited for this one. LOL
✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦
RELEASE DATE: August 6, 2016
Pre-order | order: http://amzn.to/29UjXVf
SERIES
**Complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.**
✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦
RELEASE DATE: August 6, 2016
Pre-order | order: http://amzn.to/29UjXVf
SERIES
**Complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.**
August 6, 2016
All the Stars!
Susan saved the best Pagano story for last. I LOVED it!
Susan Fanetti always knows how to break my heart. Good thing she knows exactly how to put it back together again.
This story is a wonderful reflection of my belief in the nature of love and understanding. I believe that it's our darker moments that allow us to truly appreciate the moments of love and light in our lives. Joey's story is one of struggle, strain and ultimately, acceptance. Tina is his perfect match with her patience, endurance, and understanding. I truly think that to fully appreciate and understand another person, to appreciate and understand yourself, you have to struggle together - you have to fight for it (at least a bit). Battling through conflict, surviving through grief and pain; Tina and Joey prove that love really can conquer all.
The Pagano Family couldn't have been given a better ending.
Pre-order | order: http://amzn.to/29UjXVf
Thank you to the author for providing an advanced copy of this book.
Susan saved the best Pagano story for last. I LOVED it!
Susan Fanetti always knows how to break my heart. Good thing she knows exactly how to put it back together again.
This story is a wonderful reflection of my belief in the nature of love and understanding. I believe that it's our darker moments that allow us to truly appreciate the moments of love and light in our lives. Joey's story is one of struggle, strain and ultimately, acceptance. Tina is his perfect match with her patience, endurance, and understanding. I truly think that to fully appreciate and understand another person, to appreciate and understand yourself, you have to struggle together - you have to fight for it (at least a bit). Battling through conflict, surviving through grief and pain; Tina and Joey prove that love really can conquer all.
The Pagano Family couldn't have been given a better ending.
Pre-order | order: http://amzn.to/29UjXVf
Thank you to the author for providing an advanced copy of this book.
August 11, 2016
5 ++ “You’re my reason.” STARS
This was bittersweet. From the first book, I fell hard and fast for the Pagano family. Susan makes it so easy to get lost in them, feel for them and yearn for them. Joey Pagano was very much in the background throughout this series, much like how he felt about his place in his family. Despite this, I wanted his story from the very day that a fateful, tragic event altered his life. His story needed to be told.
Thank you, Susan for giving us such a moving and memorable story.
I love Susan’s heroines. They are all strong women. Some standout more than others and I must say, Tina Corti was standout! She's neck and neck with my other favourite of this series, Bev. Tina was a formidable woman with true strength of spirit. I adored her.
She was compassionate, wise, funny, sweet, good, and strong beyond words. Yet she was flawed and when faced with her shortcomings, she owned them, learned from them and grew. Tina saw Joey Pagano from the beginning, way before this story began. She saw and loved the man beneath his past, what life had dealt him and the ways in which he was coping.
"I want my life to be with you.”
And Joey, his character growth, not only in this book but throughout this series, was subtle yet rich and complex. Like Susan does so well, she showed us how through tragedy and adversity there is always hope and light. She gives you real, poignant love stories that doesn't shy away from life's hardships and darkness.
Like all the other Paganos, Joey and Tina imprinted on my heart. I was a wreck after reading this. This was a wonderfully heartfelt story but also the end to the Pagano saga. It was a lovely and perfect finale for this big, boisterous and beautiful family. Ciao, Paganos!
For more reviews and blog posts.
This was bittersweet. From the first book, I fell hard and fast for the Pagano family. Susan makes it so easy to get lost in them, feel for them and yearn for them. Joey Pagano was very much in the background throughout this series, much like how he felt about his place in his family. Despite this, I wanted his story from the very day that a fateful, tragic event altered his life. His story needed to be told.
Thank you, Susan for giving us such a moving and memorable story.
I love Susan’s heroines. They are all strong women. Some standout more than others and I must say, Tina Corti was standout! She's neck and neck with my other favourite of this series, Bev. Tina was a formidable woman with true strength of spirit. I adored her.
She was compassionate, wise, funny, sweet, good, and strong beyond words. Yet she was flawed and when faced with her shortcomings, she owned them, learned from them and grew. Tina saw Joey Pagano from the beginning, way before this story began. She saw and loved the man beneath his past, what life had dealt him and the ways in which he was coping.
"I want my life to be with you.”
And Joey, his character growth, not only in this book but throughout this series, was subtle yet rich and complex. Like Susan does so well, she showed us how through tragedy and adversity there is always hope and light. She gives you real, poignant love stories that doesn't shy away from life's hardships and darkness.
Like all the other Paganos, Joey and Tina imprinted on my heart. I was a wreck after reading this. This was a wonderfully heartfelt story but also the end to the Pagano saga. It was a lovely and perfect finale for this big, boisterous and beautiful family. Ciao, Paganos!
For more reviews and blog posts.
August 5, 2016
5+++ ”I see you.” Stars
As per usual, Susan Fanetti knocks another Pagano family novel way out of the park. In fact, Miracle sits at the top of the list of my favorites. Joey Pagano and Tina Corti, hero and heroine respectively, are two main characters I’ll always remember. Their story presents some of the most harrowing challenges a young, new couple can face and the various ways in which those challenges are met head on and with no regrets.
If you’re a fan of this author and this family saga series especially then you’re aware of what’s coming and the history surrounding the youngest Pagano male. What you’ll be invigorated to find out is that his match is one of Fanetti’s most fascinating heroines (and this comes from a long line of fascinating heroines and big shoes to fill). Joey and Tina share the same soul, in my humble opinion. Their understanding and acceptance of each other provides them each strength in themselves individually and in their courtship.
Many themes surround the challenges and growing love between Joey and Tina. Joey is inside his own head a lot. Tina is overprotective. But through their faults, which are cultivated out of love, they grow into each other. Themes such as loyalty, acceptance, forgiveness, and strength are explored in this book to the fullest extent. They’re woven brilliantly into the text in only a way Susan Fanetti can make us understand them so acutely. Both sensitive souls at heart, caring humans down to their bones Tina and Joey embody what romance should be about, what a relationship should be about and how sustaining that relationship will make you stronger.
My biggest reflection from Miracle is a renewed faith in humanity and peace and strength. Tina and Joey reminded me that there are good people, strong people who face adversity and no matter how many times they fall, pick themselves back up again. Because they’re strong in mind and they have strong people standing beside them. It reminded me that they are people who won’t judge you, it reminded me not to judge. It proved how our strength lies in our faults just as much as anything else and how we overcome those faults. It’s a stark discovery of kindness and humanity we all have within us. It proved to me that compassion still exists so boldly in our lives. And that compassion should reflect off us and shine as we become more compassionate people. Through every day, real life circumstance and all the crazy, terrible crap happening in this world, we still have each other – the good people – who make it all worth it.
Susan Fanetti always, always, always reminds me of the good. It’s often ironic since so much good comes from tragedy in her books. Yet she never ever fails to give me this sense of light and optimism and hope. Tina Corti makes me want to be more like her in this book. And Joey Pagano reminds me that a man can break but the passion of his rebuild will astound.
All of the Pagano’s make an appearance. As readers and fans of the series we get closure on our favorite New England family. In true Fanetti form though, oh Susan you do it so well!, we get looks into a character and a side of the family that we need to know more about, actually a few of them – I’m looking at you Donnie, Trey, & Angie. I hope as this chapter of the Pagano’s closes that something in the future might come our way in a different light.
Brilliantly written. Excellently structured. A fitting end to a compelling series. I read Miracle in one day whilst setting in the sun and letting Joey and Tina consume my reading soul. Thank you for another truly perfect love story, Fanetti. Long live Pagano’s.
**Miracle generously provided.**
My reviews for the entire 5 Star Pagano Family series:
Book 1: Footsteps
Book 2: Touch
Book 3: Rooted
Book 4: Deep
Book 5: Prayer
December 8, 2018
One thing is certain when reading a Susan Fanetti book is that her characters gets challenged big time. Emotionally and physically. Miracle is a wonderful book about hope, faith, love and devotion. I knew when Joey Pagano got shot in the second Pagano Family Book that his life was forever changed. Dealing and accepting a life with permanent aphasia and lung disease will definitely take a toll on oneself especially mentally. Joey is not the same man. Isolating and neglecting himself becomes everyday life for him. That’s until he meets Tina.
She sees Joey. Sees his good heart and gentle soul. Together they slowly begin a relationship but it’s not easy with Joey’s insecurities about his aphasia and using an oxygen tank but for Tina that is just minor things. Irrelevant. Her love for Joey is honest and real.
Life throws a curveball at them because it’s a Fanetti book. Nothing is safe and Joey and Tina has to come to terms with their new life which shows different and stronger sides from both of them.
The Pagano Family series has been a fantastic series. This Author is my go to when it comes to mature romance. What a fabulous ending to this series and this generation of Pagano’s.
4 Devoted Stars
She sees Joey. Sees his good heart and gentle soul. Together they slowly begin a relationship but it’s not easy with Joey’s insecurities about his aphasia and using an oxygen tank but for Tina that is just minor things. Irrelevant. Her love for Joey is honest and real.
Life throws a curveball at them because it’s a Fanetti book. Nothing is safe and Joey and Tina has to come to terms with their new life which shows different and stronger sides from both of them.
The Pagano Family series has been a fantastic series. This Author is my go to when it comes to mature romance. What a fabulous ending to this series and this generation of Pagano’s.
4 Devoted Stars
August 14, 2016
I knew Joey's story would be powerful, moving but had no idea the magnitude. Words are indescribable as to how good it really is. I’ve gone through a lot of tissues, cried buckets on this heart wrenching journey and learned about a condition which most of us takes for granted. The ability to communicate or in Joey’s case ‘Aphasia’ Imagine one horrible incident where you wake up as you, in charge of all your faculties but the second you attempt to open your mouth, a stranger emerges.
Then loop that scenario around a mafia family where weakness is perceived as that…. Weakness. How would you heal, better yet how would you find closure and acceptance in this new life. Susan Fanetti took me on one hell of amazing ride. Still sends chills down my spine because even though the story is wrapped up with neat little bows.
You can still feel the underlying tension within the family. It wouldn’t take much for a powder keg to set things off and maybe that how a great series deserves to end. Or maybe I’m really hopeful and she’ll continue with the mafia genre...the woman is positively explosive…guaranteed five star read!
August 8, 2016
Loved the ending to this series. I just didn't want it to end. Having this kind of closure for Joey was just plain amazing. I will be re-reading this one for sure.
June 21, 2018
Susan Fanetti can do no wrong in my book. Perfect ending to a much loved series.
Reread June 2018
Reread June 2018
July 21, 2019
3.5 stars. Joey and Tina were well matched, although for once, the plot in this one stretched the bounds of credulity a little. I usually like Ms Fanetti's plotting, but in this it seemed a little too convenient or neat when
But I just went with it anyway, and once again, there was a lovely HEA. I like getting involved in these family saga series where characters from other books pop up and say hello.
But I just went with it anyway, and once again, there was a lovely HEA. I like getting involved in these family saga series where characters from other books pop up and say hello.
December 6, 2022
I have LOVED this family so much, enjoyed every minute of their time in the small town of Rhode Island with all the dynamics!!! I loved the characters - each couple has been so different! While this romance might might not have been my favorite of the 6 couples....it is the overall dynamic and Love from the series that makes each one so great and unique and lovable!!! The good side of the family (construction) and the bad side of the family(mafia) is the absolute best aspect of the series - it's such a great dynamic!!! And only the center aisle at church can split them, LOL!
I absolutely love a good series binge! And I will learn from my past to NOT take a break...because when I do I lose all those wonderful little bits about family. So far I have no reason to want to pause and read something different - so thankful that this series spins off and I can start immediately the Pagano Brothers book #1!!!!!!
I absolutely love a good series binge! And I will learn from my past to NOT take a break...because when I do I lose all those wonderful little bits about family. So far I have no reason to want to pause and read something different - so thankful that this series spins off and I can start immediately the Pagano Brothers book #1!!!!!!
August 11, 2016
5 Remarkable Stars
I love this series and I was so glad that Joey got his book. This book is perfect.
Joey have been shot in the chest during his work for the Pagano. Everything was a challenge to him and he was going to give up until he met Tina.
Tina have been crushing on Joey Pagano since she was a little girl. She did not see a broken damage man that Joey likes to see himself as.
“She was a miracle in his life."
“I don’t feel limited by anything. I like myself. And I love you. You are a miracle, Tina. You brought a dead man back to life."
I love this series and I was so glad that Joey got his book. This book is perfect.
Joey have been shot in the chest during his work for the Pagano. Everything was a challenge to him and he was going to give up until he met Tina.
Tina have been crushing on Joey Pagano since she was a little girl. She did not see a broken damage man that Joey likes to see himself as.
“She was a miracle in his life."
“I don’t feel limited by anything. I like myself. And I love you. You are a miracle, Tina. You brought a dead man back to life."
January 16, 2019
A H who has some challenging physical limitations and is depressed; a strong and giving h who starts off physically well but has issues later on; they come together and work out a way to be together inspite off all odds ...
August 16, 2016
Great finale to this series. I have waited a long time for Joey's story. Finally---he get's a well deserved HEA.
Best part of the whole book is the ending. Although I would love to revisit this family again, it was nice to get a future glimpse of the couples and their children as they have grown. Perfection as always from this author! Start at the beginning and read them all!
Best part of the whole book is the ending. Although I would love to revisit this family again, it was nice to get a future glimpse of the couples and their children as they have grown. Perfection as always from this author! Start at the beginning and read them all!
August 10, 2016
Another beautifully written character study about love, loss and resilience. Susan Fanetti is the best contemporary writer today who gets inside her characters with such thoughtfulness and insight in between the violence and chaos of the worlds she creates.
4.5 stars.
4.5 stars.
January 13, 2019
I loved Joey and Tina's story but I loved Nick and Bev's guest starring role. I am sad that this is the end of the elder Pagano's stories but I am thrilled S.F. has started a series with the second generation of Paganos.
Loved it!
Loved it!
August 9, 2016
I don't often stay up late to finish books, and when I do it's a special read...and this definitely qualified! A perfect ending to this wonderful series by an author who's become one of my favourites. It seems that everything she writes pulls me in and doesn't want to let me go. Joey is a character who's been in the background for most of the series, and I loved that he got his HEA. As she is wont to do, Fanetti got me thinking about important issues - how do I view people with disabilities? Do I see them, or do I see only the "cage" that they live in? How would I deal with an injury that left me unable to do basic things like breathing fully or communicating? Would I give up, or would I choose to fight? This one will stay with me for a while...
5+★
5+★
August 17, 2016
I read this book as a standalone and I really enjoyed it.
Lately I've been avoiding books with a mafia plot because well...
STEREOTYPES EVERYWHERE , improper use of the Italian language and...
I'm italian, more specifically I'm sicilian.
Mafia is not a fun subject for me, it's a terrible reality.
So...yeah it's a tricky subject and I rarely find authors able to portray it realisticly.
Those reasons made me stay away from this series even if I really enjoy Susan Fanetti's writing.
This book was an exception because there's a lot more to Joey & Tina's story than being part of the Pagano family.
Great MC and writing. I loved this couple from start to epilogue and I'm glad I decided to give this book a chance ^_^
Lately I've been avoiding books with a mafia plot because well...
STEREOTYPES EVERYWHERE , improper use of the Italian language and...
I'm italian, more specifically I'm sicilian.
Mafia is not a fun subject for me, it's a terrible reality.
So...yeah it's a tricky subject and I rarely find authors able to portray it realisticly.
Those reasons made me stay away from this series even if I really enjoy Susan Fanetti's writing.
This book was an exception because there's a lot more to Joey & Tina's story than being part of the Pagano family.
Great MC and writing. I loved this couple from start to epilogue and I'm glad I decided to give this book a chance ^_^
February 24, 2020
I really enjoyed this series. Some of this book was hard to read.
May 9, 2017
Pagano Family
...............................
What can I say about a series that has hit the mark on every level????
I don't know, but I'll just let the fingers type away :)
Susan Fanetti concludes the Pagano Family series with the stunning, soul shattering story of Joey Pagano.
My heart seriously hurts (no joke); I finished this story on my train ride into work this morning and of course, here I am siting on a packed commuter train with tears just falling over my cheeks.
For me, books like this are equivalent to breathing in the freshest air. There is something very very special about Ms. Fanetti. Her work is REAL; it's mature; it's unapologetic; it's raw, and it's simply beautiful.
I am very sad to see this series conclude because honestly......now that Trey is 25 yrs old.......I'm thinking "HIS" story would be a freakin fantastic one!!!
BRAVO Susan!!!! You have knocked this series out of this hemisphere!!!!
I can't Thank you enough for creating and sharing one of my all-time favourite series; this surely is one of my "go-too" series and I'll never get enough of re-reading it.
What can I say about a series that has hit the mark on every level????
I don't know, but I'll just let the fingers type away :)
Susan Fanetti concludes the Pagano Family series with the stunning, soul shattering story of Joey Pagano.
My heart seriously hurts (no joke); I finished this story on my train ride into work this morning and of course, here I am siting on a packed commuter train with tears just falling over my cheeks.
For me, books like this are equivalent to breathing in the freshest air. There is something very very special about Ms. Fanetti. Her work is REAL; it's mature; it's unapologetic; it's raw, and it's simply beautiful.
I am very sad to see this series conclude because honestly......now that Trey is 25 yrs old.......I'm thinking "HIS" story would be a freakin fantastic one!!!
BRAVO Susan!!!! You have knocked this series out of this hemisphere!!!!
I can't Thank you enough for creating and sharing one of my all-time favourite series; this surely is one of my "go-too" series and I'll never get enough of re-reading it.
August 20, 2016
As always excellent book by Fanetti. This story had me in tears and thats telling.
Beautiful story! I do find some choices about the book weird but still a 5 star rating because of her talent, good writing skills and the conclusion of this series.
Im so curious to know what her next release will be. And treys story and maybe Angie. I hope Fanetti starts a mob series. With some key figures from the Pagano men.
Beautiful story! I do find some choices about the book weird but still a 5 star rating because of her talent, good writing skills and the conclusion of this series.
Im so curious to know what her next release will be. And treys story and maybe Angie. I hope Fanetti starts a mob series. With some key figures from the Pagano men.
September 22, 2016
Sad for this series to end. Love how this author keeps going in different directions with her writing (MC series and spinoff, mafia series, viking series) and stretches and is still able to hook me in every time. I just love anything by Susan Fanetti!
November 3, 2024
QUITE POSSIBLY MY FAVORITE BOOK OF THE SERIES. WE EVEN GOT A COMPLETE HEA (sorry if that spoils it for you)! I LOVED IT.
April 25, 2022
I loved this book but hated to see it end - I LOVE THE PAGANO FAMILY! The only reason I'm not crying is the Pagano Brothers series is about to start and I am assuming we will get to revisit with this family in that series. This is a fitting finale for the Pagano family saga, as it focuses on the baby boy of the family - Joey- who has a significant disability - aphasia, which developed when he was shot trying to protect Beverly, Nick's wife, in book 4. Joey has been kind of wasting away since his aphasia has significantly impaired his expressive language skills and he also has a lot of respiratory problems. Angie, who is a made man in the Pagano mob and who used to be one of Joey's good friends has a sister named Tina, who has had a crush on Joey since she was a kid. Now she is working on her doctorate in occupational therapy and she specializes in working with mostly kids with expressive language challenges. She still likes Joey and while he doesn't want to date anyone bc of his disability, she manages to get him to go out to have coffee. Because of her work, she is really able to understand what Joey is going thru and she seems to be the only one who really "sees" him beneath all of his problems.
What we see in this story is the slow (and I do mean slow) burgeoning of a love between these two young people, that is tender, sweet and at times painful to watch. Susan always does a remarkable job in depicting what it is like for a person with a disability - be it mental or physical, to be in the world and she never reduces people to caricatures or takes the easy way out and use stereotypes to convey what's going on with the person. She doesn't come up with quick, unrealistic solutions to their problems either - her stories have HEA but people learn to live with their disabilities; they still struggle, still get frustrated but she shows you that people with disabilities can still have a full life. She doesn't shy away from the good, bad or ugly side of these conditions.
Susan also shows us the redeeming power of love. Joey slowly comes back to life because of Tina's love. One of the things I love and fear about Susan's books is that you end up reading them with a sense of trepidation because you can never relax; you know something bad is going to happen, so I'm always on pins and needles, waiting for the proverbial shoe to drop. I won't give it away but there is a horrific thing that happens to one of the characters and it takes a long time for them to recover.
Fortunately, Joey and Tina do finally get to their HEA after a lot of obstacles. We lose some beloved family members along the way, but in the end, the Paganos realize that thru it all, family is important, family has your back, and family is what counts.
What we see in this story is the slow (and I do mean slow) burgeoning of a love between these two young people, that is tender, sweet and at times painful to watch. Susan always does a remarkable job in depicting what it is like for a person with a disability - be it mental or physical, to be in the world and she never reduces people to caricatures or takes the easy way out and use stereotypes to convey what's going on with the person. She doesn't come up with quick, unrealistic solutions to their problems either - her stories have HEA but people learn to live with their disabilities; they still struggle, still get frustrated but she shows you that people with disabilities can still have a full life. She doesn't shy away from the good, bad or ugly side of these conditions.
Susan also shows us the redeeming power of love. Joey slowly comes back to life because of Tina's love. One of the things I love and fear about Susan's books is that you end up reading them with a sense of trepidation because you can never relax; you know something bad is going to happen, so I'm always on pins and needles, waiting for the proverbial shoe to drop. I won't give it away but there is a horrific thing that happens to one of the characters and it takes a long time for them to recover.
Fortunately, Joey and Tina do finally get to their HEA after a lot of obstacles. We lose some beloved family members along the way, but in the end, the Paganos realize that thru it all, family is important, family has your back, and family is what counts.
February 10, 2019
C’est peut-être le meilleur roman de la série… même si c’est un vrai mélodrame. Le titre « miracle » est quelque peu trompeur, parce que les rebondissements tragiques qui jonchent cette histoire ne s’arrangent pas « miraculeusement ». Onze ans se sont passés depuis les évènements du premier tome, dont les conséquences ont été plus que dramatiques pour Joey, qui tente au début de ce dernier volume, de retrouver une certaine autonomie sans grande conviction. Son aphasie profonde ne s’améliorera jamais et vivre avec un appareil d’oxygène portable est aussi humiliant qu’éprouvant. Et voilà qu’il trouve sur sa route, Tina, la petite soeur très méritante, de son ex-meilleur ami, devenu un des plus proches lieutenants de Nick… et quand on dit mafia, les ennuis commencent !
Dans ce final crépusculaire qui lie intrinsèquement les deux côtés de la famille Pagano, l’amour ressenti par nos deux héros sera la lumière chaleureuse, tendre et infiniment touchante de cette histoire. Joey qui n’a jamais trouvé sa place tente de montrer aux siens qu’on peut compter sur lui… avant de comprendre que c’est à ses propres yeux qu’il doit prouver sa valeur. Si Tina est une battante, une vraie héroïne, c’est dans une épreuve particulièrement tragique qu’il lui faudra montrer sa force. Ces rebondissements vont profondément transformer nos deux héros… mais aussi souder cette famille avec toute une gamme de sentiments en prime : amour, colère, tendresse, regrets, peur, souvenirs… Je me suis laissé totalement emportée dans cette mouvance familiale, filiale, fraternelle, et amicale. On retrouve tous les personnages qui ont évolué au fil des années… avec un final qui nous projette dix années plus tard, là où va commencer le spin-off de cette série dont les deux premiers tomes viennent de paraître.
Une série « must » grande réussite pour moi de ce début d’année. Ce serait vraiment épatant de la faire traduire !
Dans ce final crépusculaire qui lie intrinsèquement les deux côtés de la famille Pagano, l’amour ressenti par nos deux héros sera la lumière chaleureuse, tendre et infiniment touchante de cette histoire. Joey qui n’a jamais trouvé sa place tente de montrer aux siens qu’on peut compter sur lui… avant de comprendre que c’est à ses propres yeux qu’il doit prouver sa valeur. Si Tina est une battante, une vraie héroïne, c’est dans une épreuve particulièrement tragique qu’il lui faudra montrer sa force. Ces rebondissements vont profondément transformer nos deux héros… mais aussi souder cette famille avec toute une gamme de sentiments en prime : amour, colère, tendresse, regrets, peur, souvenirs… Je me suis laissé totalement emportée dans cette mouvance familiale, filiale, fraternelle, et amicale. On retrouve tous les personnages qui ont évolué au fil des années… avec un final qui nous projette dix années plus tard, là où va commencer le spin-off de cette série dont les deux premiers tomes viennent de paraître.
Une série « must » grande réussite pour moi de ce début d’année. Ce serait vraiment épatant de la faire traduire !
October 20, 2020
All through this series I was so fed up with Joey. He gave up on life but mostly on himself. He didn't even try to let his family know how he was feeling. He was pathetic. If it wasn't for Tina coming back into his life he would have continued on as a couch potato.
Tina had a crush on Joey from when she was a teenager and her brother hung out with Joey. When her brother became an enforcer for Nick he pretty much stayed clear of his family and left Joey's friendship behind.
When Tina's brother's life brings danger into hers she has to rebuild her life. I was surprised that she didn't try to push Joey away after what she was going through.
I enjoyed the 10 years later epilogue, but to see that Trey was now a part of the dark side of the family just didn't seem to fit. I know it so that the author can have a spin off of this series but for me the way he was raised and as close as him and his father were that he would turn to an uncle for his future instead of the future with his family business.
Tina had a crush on Joey from when she was a teenager and her brother hung out with Joey. When her brother became an enforcer for Nick he pretty much stayed clear of his family and left Joey's friendship behind.
When Tina's brother's life brings danger into hers she has to rebuild her life. I was surprised that she didn't try to push Joey away after what she was going through.
I enjoyed the 10 years later epilogue, but to see that Trey was now a part of the dark side of the family just didn't seem to fit. I know it so that the author can have a spin off of this series but for me the way he was raised and as close as him and his father were that he would turn to an uncle for his future instead of the future with his family business.
May 7, 2017
What a great book! I loved Joey and his courage and strength. And Tina was so good for him. They had a real relationship with real problems. This book was so interesting seeing how Joey struggled, and then the author took it in a totally different direction than I was expecting. I'm not sure what to think of it all, but overall it was a great story.
I do have a problem understanding or feeling drawn to mobsters. These men are ruthless murderers. I would have moved to the other side of the country before I ate Christmas dinner at their house like nothing was wrong. Many of them paid a dear price to be near their family. I just don't get that aspect to mob books and why I usually avoid them.
I do have a problem understanding or feeling drawn to mobsters. These men are ruthless murderers. I would have moved to the other side of the country before I ate Christmas dinner at their house like nothing was wrong. Many of them paid a dear price to be near their family. I just don't get that aspect to mob books and why I usually avoid them.
August 15, 2017
This was simply a beautiful love story. A perfect ending to an incredible family saga series. Joey and Tina are perfect for each other. It took a truly horrific and sad circumstance to bring understanding between both of them to 100%. This book brought out all emotions for me - happy, sad, angry. It also made me cry. Once again, I was right there with the characters and living and feeling all that they were going through. I'm sorry to see the end of this series but there is also so much potential for more, ie. the kid's - especially Trey. So, if you ever read this review Susan Fanetti that is my wish from you.
February 24, 2024
I love and hate the ending of a series. I love the usually extended epilogues showing where are they now. But I feel melancholy too. Like it’s the end of an era.
And this one didn’t disappoint.
My fave of the series. The best for last. Joey and Tina are my fave. Joey wasn’t earlier in the series but he became my fave after this. Two people meant to be together and just helping and supporting each other through the ups and downs. A few tears when Angie was welcomed home and Genia became part of the family again.
A truly deserved HEA here.
And this one didn’t disappoint.
My fave of the series. The best for last. Joey and Tina are my fave. Joey wasn’t earlier in the series but he became my fave after this. Two people meant to be together and just helping and supporting each other through the ups and downs. A few tears when Angie was welcomed home and Genia became part of the family again.
A truly deserved HEA here.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 2, 2017
So sad I've finished this series, and what an emotional book to finish on - the cover makes total sense now. Loved all of the Paganos, Joey was such a sensitive soul and so misunderstood, I couldn't help but fall hard. Loved it.
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