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Brothers Maledetti #0.5
Lovers and Madmen
Florence, Italy. Summer, 1982.
Judith Campbell prides herself on her level head. She’s a scientist with a ten-year plan, a well-managed bank account, and clear understanding of what she wants out of life. Currently, that means a summer of fun touring Europe with her friends. She intends to see some amazing scenery, flirt with a cute guy or two, and return home ready to settle down for good.
Falling madly in love with an Italian playboy is definitely not on her life goals to-do list.
But then her eyes meet those of Cesare D’Angelo across a crowded piazza.
Cesare is everything Judith never knew she wanted. Handsome and charismatic, he challenges her assumptions and forces her rethink her logical approach to everything. Case in point—Judith finds herself falling for him, hard and fast. Definitely not her most carefully thought-out decision.
But Cesare keeps devastating secrets that will challenge Judith’s very understanding of reality. And soon Judith finds herself facing the most difficult decision of all—
Would you still chose to love someone even if your time together would be brief? Would you accept a relationship, knowing that only heartbreak and grief awaited you in the end?
Lovers and Madmen is a prequel novella for the Brothers Maledetti series. Lose yourself in Judith and Cesare’s story and understand where it all began.
Judith Campbell prides herself on her level head. She’s a scientist with a ten-year plan, a well-managed bank account, and clear understanding of what she wants out of life. Currently, that means a summer of fun touring Europe with her friends. She intends to see some amazing scenery, flirt with a cute guy or two, and return home ready to settle down for good.
Falling madly in love with an Italian playboy is definitely not on her life goals to-do list.
But then her eyes meet those of Cesare D’Angelo across a crowded piazza.
Cesare is everything Judith never knew she wanted. Handsome and charismatic, he challenges her assumptions and forces her rethink her logical approach to everything. Case in point—Judith finds herself falling for him, hard and fast. Definitely not her most carefully thought-out decision.
But Cesare keeps devastating secrets that will challenge Judith’s very understanding of reality. And soon Judith finds herself facing the most difficult decision of all—
Would you still chose to love someone even if your time together would be brief? Would you accept a relationship, knowing that only heartbreak and grief awaited you in the end?
Lovers and Madmen is a prequel novella for the Brothers Maledetti series. Lose yourself in Judith and Cesare’s story and understand where it all began.
164 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 29, 2018
114 people are currently reading
248 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
September 16, 2024
From the moment Cesare first saw Judith in a vision, he knew he would only ever love her. He knew everything about her. He yearned for her and knew that in the end, he would only ever bring her misery. But would his love for her outshine the misery? Would the love and happiness be worth it, if only for a short time? Would she choose him if she knew how things would end? These thoughts plagued Cesare constantly. He might have been content with the "what if's" had it not been for that one look across the piazza. But once they laid eyes on each other, the damage had been done. He just had to introduce himself to her. But would he ever be able to move on with just the memory of her touch, her scent, her voice?
While travelling though Europe with her two best friends, Judith finds herself drawn to a mysterious Italian man. As a scientist she can't explain the connection she feels to Cesare but there is definitely something there. Who was this man who challenged her? Who encouraged her to be her true self? Who matched wits with her and pushed her outside of her comfort zone? And when did she start letting her heart rule her head?
The more time Judith and Cesare spend together, the harder it becomes to see life without the other in it. But when Cesare's secret threatens to tear them apart, Judith has to choose. Will she be able to go back home to the states and let Cesare be just one beautiful memory in her life? Or will she choose to live her life with Cesare and have all his kisses and all his memories?
*dreamy sigh*
Okay... I'm not going to lie. I was hesitant to pick up this book. I don't know why but I was. And now all I can say is wow! Just wow! You guys! I absolutely LOVED Judith and Cesare's love story! It is heart achingly beautiful and oh so perfect! I found myself sucked in from the very beginning and had a hard time putting this book down! This series has been added to my favorites list! I love it!
Ms. Van is an extremely talented writer and I am so glad a fellow bookworm introduced me to her. She quickly became a favorite of mine. I can't wait to see what she has in store for us next!
And of course there is no way I could forget my casting! This one was a little tough for me but I love these two! What do you think?
While travelling though Europe with her two best friends, Judith finds herself drawn to a mysterious Italian man. As a scientist she can't explain the connection she feels to Cesare but there is definitely something there. Who was this man who challenged her? Who encouraged her to be her true self? Who matched wits with her and pushed her outside of her comfort zone? And when did she start letting her heart rule her head?
The more time Judith and Cesare spend together, the harder it becomes to see life without the other in it. But when Cesare's secret threatens to tear them apart, Judith has to choose. Will she be able to go back home to the states and let Cesare be just one beautiful memory in her life? Or will she choose to live her life with Cesare and have all his kisses and all his memories?
*dreamy sigh*
Okay... I'm not going to lie. I was hesitant to pick up this book. I don't know why but I was. And now all I can say is wow! Just wow! You guys! I absolutely LOVED Judith and Cesare's love story! It is heart achingly beautiful and oh so perfect! I found myself sucked in from the very beginning and had a hard time putting this book down! This series has been added to my favorites list! I love it!
Ms. Van is an extremely talented writer and I am so glad a fellow bookworm introduced me to her. She quickly became a favorite of mine. I can't wait to see what she has in store for us next!
And of course there is no way I could forget my casting! This one was a little tough for me but I love these two! What do you think?
April 24, 2018
I am so far out from reading this book to reviewing it, but I'll give it my best remembrances and impressions. But considering how much I absolutely loved it and couldn't stop thinking about it, especially with the final book in this series coming out, I think I'll be able to convey how much I absolutely loved it!
This book! Wow! I honestly didn't want it to end. I wanted more and more and more! If you haven't read this series at all, don't be fooled by that #0 for the book order. No siree, Do Not read this book first. If I could beg and plead to show you how emphatic I am about not reading this one first, I would. Read this series in the order that they were released. Books 1, 2, 3, 0, 4. You will not regret it...I Promise!!! (Was I emphatic enough and clear enough?) There are so many family dynamics and reveals that if you read this one first it just wouldn't quite be as clear for you.
Nichole Van, how do you do it? You've sucked me into another book, yet again! Thanks!
You know, I kind of didn't like Cesare, if I'm being honest. Not in this book of course. But throughout the series, until book 3. My thoughts changed. Of course I know the madness is affecting him but I was a little mad that he was gone. So, maybe it wasn't that I didn't like him but that I didn't like him not being present. It just felt like this family was cheated of someone they needed so much. Yet book 3 changed my mind. COMPLETELY. About Cesare. And, well, since this review is about this book, his love story, it most definitely had me absolutely adoring and falling for Cesare myself. It could not be helped.
Judith and Cesare are the parents of the Brothers Maledetti (and Chiara, the younger sister) and this is their story. Their meeting, their friendship, their connection, their love. And Cesare, melt my heart right now, his lines were pure perfection. Yes, I'm gushing just a little bit (ok maybe a lot) but if you've read this, or are going to, you'll know exactly what I mean. This might have caused little tears and rips in my heart at some points, especially knowing what is in store for these two. And then as I continued reading it, my heart would be ready to burst with so much giddy happiness and love for these two. Happy, happy sigh!!!!!!!
I think I may have highlighted my whole book. *blushes* I have about every line in there I want to quote for you. Ha! That would definitely defeat the purpose of you reading this gem, and would take more characters than I have available for a review. So to stick with the purpose of the book and review, go read it now! Well, start the series and read it now! The whole series is available now. Tennyson's book just came out. (He's the last of their children to have his book) And from what I've seen with other reviews it is the icing on the cake, so to speak, and is well worth reading the whole series for.
Judith and Cesare, thanks for sharing your love story with us. It was beautiful and something I will think back on (and read) often! Nichole Van, you're just super awesome! Thanks for a fabulous series. I am going to read Tennyson's story soonish (hopefully). I have several review books I need to get through first but honestly I have been waiting since book one for Tennyson's turn. Part of me wants to throw everything aside and just devour it and part of me wants to wait just a touch longer so I don' have to say goodbye to this family and their stories just yet. Oh the dilemma.
Read it now!
Content: Clean. A mild swear word scattered throughout and kissing.
I read my own personal copy, go get your own, it's only $0.99. ;-)
Happy Reading!!!
This book! Wow! I honestly didn't want it to end. I wanted more and more and more! If you haven't read this series at all, don't be fooled by that #0 for the book order. No siree, Do Not read this book first. If I could beg and plead to show you how emphatic I am about not reading this one first, I would. Read this series in the order that they were released. Books 1, 2, 3, 0, 4. You will not regret it...I Promise!!! (Was I emphatic enough and clear enough?) There are so many family dynamics and reveals that if you read this one first it just wouldn't quite be as clear for you.
Nichole Van, how do you do it? You've sucked me into another book, yet again! Thanks!
You know, I kind of didn't like Cesare, if I'm being honest. Not in this book of course. But throughout the series, until book 3. My thoughts changed. Of course I know the madness is affecting him but I was a little mad that he was gone. So, maybe it wasn't that I didn't like him but that I didn't like him not being present. It just felt like this family was cheated of someone they needed so much. Yet book 3 changed my mind. COMPLETELY. About Cesare. And, well, since this review is about this book, his love story, it most definitely had me absolutely adoring and falling for Cesare myself. It could not be helped.
Judith and Cesare are the parents of the Brothers Maledetti (and Chiara, the younger sister) and this is their story. Their meeting, their friendship, their connection, their love. And Cesare, melt my heart right now, his lines were pure perfection. Yes, I'm gushing just a little bit (ok maybe a lot) but if you've read this, or are going to, you'll know exactly what I mean. This might have caused little tears and rips in my heart at some points, especially knowing what is in store for these two. And then as I continued reading it, my heart would be ready to burst with so much giddy happiness and love for these two. Happy, happy sigh!!!!!!!
I think I may have highlighted my whole book. *blushes* I have about every line in there I want to quote for you. Ha! That would definitely defeat the purpose of you reading this gem, and would take more characters than I have available for a review. So to stick with the purpose of the book and review, go read it now! Well, start the series and read it now! The whole series is available now. Tennyson's book just came out. (He's the last of their children to have his book) And from what I've seen with other reviews it is the icing on the cake, so to speak, and is well worth reading the whole series for.
Judith and Cesare, thanks for sharing your love story with us. It was beautiful and something I will think back on (and read) often! Nichole Van, you're just super awesome! Thanks for a fabulous series. I am going to read Tennyson's story soonish (hopefully). I have several review books I need to get through first but honestly I have been waiting since book one for Tennyson's turn. Part of me wants to throw everything aside and just devour it and part of me wants to wait just a touch longer so I don' have to say goodbye to this family and their stories just yet. Oh the dilemma.
Read it now!
Content: Clean. A mild swear word scattered throughout and kissing.
I read my own personal copy, go get your own, it's only $0.99. ;-)
Happy Reading!!!
March 29, 2018
A love story can be found in almost any story and I've often wondered more about this family, especially after reading Chiara's book. What about the parents? How did they fall in love? How did they handle this family curse? If you've had similar questions, look no further because this little beauty will answer them and in a fabulously sweet and swoony way.
I love my life to be neat and orderly--I don't like surprises, but they come and I adapt. Judith has her life all mapped out and isn't sure she even believes in true love. Boy, did Cesare blindside her! An instant, deep, and binding connection brings these two together and won't let go, but Cesare has some major secrets that must be shared.
Nichole Van is so talented and really brought these characters, their emotions, and their reactions to life and in such a short amount of time. I loved watching these mysteries unfold, and although I kind of knew what they were, the journey was sweet and satisfying. There are some intense decisions that must be made and they really made me think--what would I do?
Content: very mild violence; mild, swoony romance (kissing); mild language
*I received a copy, which did not affect my opinion.*
I love my life to be neat and orderly--I don't like surprises, but they come and I adapt. Judith has her life all mapped out and isn't sure she even believes in true love. Boy, did Cesare blindside her! An instant, deep, and binding connection brings these two together and won't let go, but Cesare has some major secrets that must be shared.
Nichole Van is so talented and really brought these characters, their emotions, and their reactions to life and in such a short amount of time. I loved watching these mysteries unfold, and although I kind of knew what they were, the journey was sweet and satisfying. There are some intense decisions that must be made and they really made me think--what would I do?
Content: very mild violence; mild, swoony romance (kissing); mild language
*I received a copy, which did not affect my opinion.*
April 11, 2018
Oh! I wasn't expecting this to be SO good! I mean, given the other books, I expected good but there it is. SOOOOOO GOOD! I loved it. As in, I just might want to go back and read that again. Right now.
I am in love with this series. I think I might have loved this pre-novella more because I've read all the other books and I have heard about these two, seen them from their children's eyes. Now I know them. I really know them. And I LOVE them. Ugh. I just know this is going to send me into a reading funk, desperately waiting for the next book. Thankfully I don't have to wait too long!! I just feel sorry for the next book I have to read. I'll still be thinking of this book and this series and it hardly seems fair. It's like book cheating. Ha.
I don't think I would recommend reading this book before the others. Even though technically, chronologically it comes first. I don't think I would be as passionate about Judith and Ceasar's story if I hadn't read the other books first. What do you think, friends? Agree? Disagree?
Content: kissing, mild swearing
I picked this book up on kindle unlimited.
I am in love with this series. I think I might have loved this pre-novella more because I've read all the other books and I have heard about these two, seen them from their children's eyes. Now I know them. I really know them. And I LOVE them. Ugh. I just know this is going to send me into a reading funk, desperately waiting for the next book. Thankfully I don't have to wait too long!! I just feel sorry for the next book I have to read. I'll still be thinking of this book and this series and it hardly seems fair. It's like book cheating. Ha.
I don't think I would recommend reading this book before the others. Even though technically, chronologically it comes first. I don't think I would be as passionate about Judith and Ceasar's story if I hadn't read the other books first. What do you think, friends? Agree? Disagree?
Content: kissing, mild swearing
I picked this book up on kindle unlimited.
March 30, 2018
Goodness.........what a story. I knew I was going to love this one, but wow. I really liked it:} Judith and Cesare's story was just what I thought it should be. The author did a good job of going back to 1980's you can tell Judith is telling the story and just remembering. I can not wait for the next book. Van is an amazing story teller and I just can't wait. Every book is something new and yummy. Just adore her. This is a clean romance with some great kisses.
April 29, 2018
Rate a 6 on the 5 scale!!! This book is the prequel to the Brothers Maledetti series. It’s about Judith and Cesare D’Angelo, and how they meet and marry. They are the parents of the triplets and Chiara in the other awesome books. I didn’t know if I’d like this one. It said novella, and I usually don’t like those because they are never long enough to get inside the characters’ heads well enough to care about them. But this one is a longer novella, almost novel length…and it was incredible. One of my favorite stories in this series so far. I adored both characters. Cesare is amazing and tender and passionate, just like his sons. Judith is logical, determined, and so adorably cute. This clean romance has all the sizzle you want to read about without the dirty details. Just aching for a kiss is written so beautifully that my heart was tortured (the sweet kind) waiting for it to happen. Such great romantic tension and desire. Loved it! This book is awesome and there was nothing I didn’t like about it. I didn’t think anything could make this series better, but I was wrong. This prequel filled in holes and really made it shine even brighter, I feel.
April 2, 2018
I liked getting a glimpse into the Maledetti brothers' parents' relationship. This was sweet and romantic. Nichole included some really interesting tidbits about certain artists, and I loved the descriptions of Florence.
Content: Clean.
Content: Clean.
April 1, 2018
Wow! What a story! I loved to know Cesare and Judith's story began. So, so good!
And gosh, what I would give to spend three months in Italy. My dream. I know I'd love it, and I know I'd pick up Italian really easily too.
Just go read this already, especially if you read the others in the series.
And gosh, what I would give to spend three months in Italy. My dream. I know I'd love it, and I know I'd pick up Italian really easily too.
Just go read this already, especially if you read the others in the series.
August 9, 2025
3.5 stars.
Plot- I really liked this for a novella. Of course the world building and story feel unfinished, and I’m dying for more. So mission accomplished and I’ll be picking up the first book of the series now.
Characters- I really liked the 2 MCs. They were sweet, esp the MMC who was doting to the point of infatuation. He had good cause.
Romance- Had sweet, wholesome, nostalgic vibes. I enjoyed it.
Writing - Well written.
Content-
Language- no swearing
Spice- clean. Just kissing.
Violence- no
Substance abuse- none
Cover- meh
POV- single POV
Cliffhanger- no
Format- audio via Hoopla
Narration- good performance.
Plot- I really liked this for a novella. Of course the world building and story feel unfinished, and I’m dying for more. So mission accomplished and I’ll be picking up the first book of the series now.
Characters- I really liked the 2 MCs. They were sweet, esp the MMC who was doting to the point of infatuation. He had good cause.
Romance- Had sweet, wholesome, nostalgic vibes. I enjoyed it.
Writing - Well written.
Content-
Language- no swearing
Spice- clean. Just kissing.
Violence- no
Substance abuse- none
Cover- meh
POV- single POV
Cliffhanger- no
Format- audio via Hoopla
Narration- good performance.
May 4, 2018
Sadly poetic beautiful
This is a heart wrenching but beautiful beginning to a series I'm pretty sure I'm going to love.
I could NOT put this down.
This is a heart wrenching but beautiful beginning to a series I'm pretty sure I'm going to love.
I could NOT put this down.
April 9, 2018
This is an amazing prequel novella!!! I love that it gives us special insight into the personalities of the parents of the D'Angelo siblings since they aren't delved into in the books, but are becoming increasingly significant as the series progresses. The third book especially explored Chiara's relationship with her father and the trauma she suffers from his death. This novella brought Cesare to life and made me ache for him and his family, knowing what is in store for them. I loved that Judith is introduced as so practical and unromantic, yet she is swept away almost against her will by her feelings for Cesare. The romantic tension is drawn out as she extends her stay in Italy and spends more time with Cesare, and the conflicts that hold them back make it that much more poignant when Judith makes her decision. The details about the landscape and historical sites made the setting roll like a movie in my head, and I can't wait to visit there myself someday!
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
March 18, 2019
Although I enjoyed reading the stories of Judith and C’s triplets, this one didn’t do it for me. I expected to read about their married life, how they managed three sons who each inherited one of his cursed gifts, and the circumstances that led to his death. What I got was page after page of silly conversations between Judith and her friends and a drawn-out courtship. The time they spent together as husband and wife would have been more interesting.
June 2, 2023
Ohhhhhh
I don't generally enjoy novellas as they don't always give good depth to characters, but OHHHHHHH! I am SO glad us readers van learn Cesare and Judith`s story. I can see pieces of Cesare in Dante, Branwell, Tennyson, and their sister. Excellent read.
I don't generally enjoy novellas as they don't always give good depth to characters, but OHHHHHHH! I am SO glad us readers van learn Cesare and Judith`s story. I can see pieces of Cesare in Dante, Branwell, Tennyson, and their sister. Excellent read.
April 12, 2025
2nd reading.
Love this series even more. It has a very unique paranormal-ish storyline. But the characters have stayed in my brain for years! It has been fun to revisit.
And now I feel the need to visit Italy.
______________
Fun prequel to the series, but be warned, this is a novella and is super short. But it was fun to get a peek into how Judith and Cesare met.
I was convinced capital-L Love was a marketing gimmick dreamed up by medieval French minstrels who then passed the idea down through the centuries until it had morphed into Disney fairy tales with anthropomorphic, talking animals and ‘heroes’ who kissed unconscious women because they were beautiful, but the men were handsome and rich and somehow that took the sexual assault of non-consenting women from, “Call the cops!” to “How romantic.”
Love this series even more. It has a very unique paranormal-ish storyline. But the characters have stayed in my brain for years! It has been fun to revisit.
And now I feel the need to visit Italy.
______________
Fun prequel to the series, but be warned, this is a novella and is super short. But it was fun to get a peek into how Judith and Cesare met.
I was convinced capital-L Love was a marketing gimmick dreamed up by medieval French minstrels who then passed the idea down through the centuries until it had morphed into Disney fairy tales with anthropomorphic, talking animals and ‘heroes’ who kissed unconscious women because they were beautiful, but the men were handsome and rich and somehow that took the sexual assault of non-consenting women from, “Call the cops!” to “How romantic.”
April 6, 2018
Remembering that this was a novella, I thought I could fit in reading it before bed. It was over 160 pages, more than I was expecting, and sucked me in so well, that an on-time bedtime became an impossibility!
This book is a prequel to the Brothers Maledetti series, reading the rest of the series is not necessary to the plot. This is the story of Dante, Tennyson, and Brom's parents, Judith and Cesare D'Angelo.
Judith is in Europe for the summer traveling with two friends, when she meets Cesare there is an undeniable attraction and fascination, but she has a serious boyfriend back home, even though they're technically on a break. Judith was intelligent and confident. She was very logical, and Cesare was a good match for her. He was emotional, creative, and logical. He could understand her, but also broaden her horizons. I loved their interactions. They spent a lot of the summer being friends, with a strong underlying tension.
Cesare was incredibly romantic and intense! He knew what he wanted. He'd seen visions of Judith before he even met her, but he wasn't going to force her into any choices. He was sweet, patient, and self-sacrificing. This was an incredible love story with hot kisses, and a real love that puts one's partner first.
I feel like I need to reread parts of the rest of the series now that I have a better understanding of Cesare D'Angelo. A great addition to the series, and well worth staying up for!
This book is a prequel to the Brothers Maledetti series, reading the rest of the series is not necessary to the plot. This is the story of Dante, Tennyson, and Brom's parents, Judith and Cesare D'Angelo.
Judith is in Europe for the summer traveling with two friends, when she meets Cesare there is an undeniable attraction and fascination, but she has a serious boyfriend back home, even though they're technically on a break. Judith was intelligent and confident. She was very logical, and Cesare was a good match for her. He was emotional, creative, and logical. He could understand her, but also broaden her horizons. I loved their interactions. They spent a lot of the summer being friends, with a strong underlying tension.
Cesare was incredibly romantic and intense! He knew what he wanted. He'd seen visions of Judith before he even met her, but he wasn't going to force her into any choices. He was sweet, patient, and self-sacrificing. This was an incredible love story with hot kisses, and a real love that puts one's partner first.
I feel like I need to reread parts of the rest of the series now that I have a better understanding of Cesare D'Angelo. A great addition to the series, and well worth staying up for!
May 21, 2024
This was a fun little read that made me want to go back to Italy. She did a great job catching my attention and keeping it throughout the book. The ending seemed a bit rushed, but maybe that’s just me. Ha
October 18, 2022
What a great beginning of the series. I, of course, read this last, and now I want to go back and read all the other books again!
unfinished
April 13, 2024Language and adult situations make this not my cup of tea. Deleting.
July 26, 2025
I have loved all of Nichole Van's books that I read, but this one I finally had to shelve as I couldn't get into it.
July 10, 2018
This was a great prequel. My only problem with it was that it was not long enough! I would have loved to see the kids growing up, them discovering their abilities, etc. But I was very happy to have Judith and Cesare's story.
December 5, 2023
I know that this book was technically a prequel, but I think I enjoyed it even more bc I listened to it after I read the series! Bc I already knew what his secret was (so I wasn’t confused) and I already had background of the characters! Ok I can’t decide! Maybe it would be fun to listen to it as a prequel too!! Pros and cons to both ways! Either way this is an amazing addition to the series. The same heart ache emotions that come from the whole family’s predicament. As well as the out of this world love that exists between each main couple. Ugh I loved this series as well as this book. I love the Italian setting and speaking. Lots of interesting discussion in this book. The value of usefulness vs beauty. The validity of scientific fact vs emotion etc. of course the narration was great too!
SPOILERS and book notes:
Florence Italy summer 1982
Judith just became a veterinarian. She is a scientist and Cesare (pronounced chezaray) is an art something or other. He has an art acquisition business. So they have the best debates about usefulness vs beauty. And if you can have both or which one is most important. If Galileo could be a scientist and a dreamer. What’s more important facts or emotions? They can match each other whit for whit. And challenge each others beliefs. Find a middle ground for both. All these things are black and white. “My brain made out with his brain while we talked” she thinks emotions aren’t quantifiable. But he disagrees. Bc how do you know if you are feeling love, or anger or sad? It’s just more complicated than math. And bc of his powers, he saved a kid from drowning!! I love that cesera wouldn’t kiss her until she completely broke it off with Steve. That when he kissed her, he wanted ALL her kisses. How freaking romantic. And I love that only the first chapter has been in his perspective so far. And we got from that chapter that he is supernaturally already deeply in love with her. And now she is in love with him too. She is happy that he is a “stingy kisser”. She surprised him!!! And he does NOT get surprised with his power that he has!! They have an Edward Bella love! He is sending so much “I want you” vibes, but he keeps telling her how he will only bring her heart break. And she keeps telling him it’s her to decide. And he is sending her not just typical “I want you” vibes but supernatural otherworldly powerful love vibes. To prove his abilities he told her all these cute childhood memories of her. Awww she chose to be with him even if she knew it would be hard. I’m bawling. Bc she loved him so much. And no life is certain! You just need to have faith and enjoy the little moments! And then they were so blessedly happy with their kids being born. (And then you MUST read their hea at the end of the fourth book) trust me. You will bawl. He escaped the void and now can live a long happy normal life with her. But not after tons of time apart and hardships. their reunion was everything though.
SPOILERS and book notes:
Florence Italy summer 1982
Judith just became a veterinarian. She is a scientist and Cesare (pronounced chezaray) is an art something or other. He has an art acquisition business. So they have the best debates about usefulness vs beauty. And if you can have both or which one is most important. If Galileo could be a scientist and a dreamer. What’s more important facts or emotions? They can match each other whit for whit. And challenge each others beliefs. Find a middle ground for both. All these things are black and white. “My brain made out with his brain while we talked” she thinks emotions aren’t quantifiable. But he disagrees. Bc how do you know if you are feeling love, or anger or sad? It’s just more complicated than math. And bc of his powers, he saved a kid from drowning!! I love that cesera wouldn’t kiss her until she completely broke it off with Steve. That when he kissed her, he wanted ALL her kisses. How freaking romantic. And I love that only the first chapter has been in his perspective so far. And we got from that chapter that he is supernaturally already deeply in love with her. And now she is in love with him too. She is happy that he is a “stingy kisser”. She surprised him!!! And he does NOT get surprised with his power that he has!! They have an Edward Bella love! He is sending so much “I want you” vibes, but he keeps telling her how he will only bring her heart break. And she keeps telling him it’s her to decide. And he is sending her not just typical “I want you” vibes but supernatural otherworldly powerful love vibes. To prove his abilities he told her all these cute childhood memories of her. Awww she chose to be with him even if she knew it would be hard. I’m bawling. Bc she loved him so much. And no life is certain! You just need to have faith and enjoy the little moments! And then they were so blessedly happy with their kids being born. (And then you MUST read their hea at the end of the fourth book) trust me. You will bawl. He escaped the void and now can live a long happy normal life with her. But not after tons of time apart and hardships. their reunion was everything though.
April 28, 2018
A really wonderful, and yet bittersweet, love story. So thankful that Ms. Van decided to give us Cesare and Judith's story. Well edited.
Judith, along with her friends Sandra and Kimberly, decides to take an European tour before real life begins. Sitting at a cafe in Florence, she sees a very handsome Italian man watching her. She feels that mysterious something. He walks across the street, introduces himself, and thus begins their story. Except Cesare knows things - how she likes her coffee, how she likes a sandwich, and her favorite cookies. And somehow, he always seems to be in the right place at the right time. Slowly, Judith opens her heart to Cesare. She just can't figure out why he seems so sad sometimes, or why he tells her he will only bring her heartache. Eventually, the Maledetti secrets come out. Will Judith embrace love despite Cesare's terrible secret? Will Cesare allow himself to be loved?
Having read all but Tennyson's book (up next!), it was such a treat to have Cesare and Judith's meeting and path to love and family. In Dante, Branwell, and Chiara's stories, we have had glimpses of their parents love. It was so achingly sweet to read how Cesare seemed to want so desperately to love Judith, but was so afraid that she wouldn't be able to love him because of the curse And how beautiful to be reminded that we all face a choice every day - do we love or not. Judith chose to love - knowing her future with Cesare would be limited.. Cesare and Judith's story touched my heart. Looking forward to reading Tennyson's story and hoping they find a way free from the curse. Enjoy!
Judith, along with her friends Sandra and Kimberly, decides to take an European tour before real life begins. Sitting at a cafe in Florence, she sees a very handsome Italian man watching her. She feels that mysterious something. He walks across the street, introduces himself, and thus begins their story. Except Cesare knows things - how she likes her coffee, how she likes a sandwich, and her favorite cookies. And somehow, he always seems to be in the right place at the right time. Slowly, Judith opens her heart to Cesare. She just can't figure out why he seems so sad sometimes, or why he tells her he will only bring her heartache. Eventually, the Maledetti secrets come out. Will Judith embrace love despite Cesare's terrible secret? Will Cesare allow himself to be loved?
Having read all but Tennyson's book (up next!), it was such a treat to have Cesare and Judith's meeting and path to love and family. In Dante, Branwell, and Chiara's stories, we have had glimpses of their parents love. It was so achingly sweet to read how Cesare seemed to want so desperately to love Judith, but was so afraid that she wouldn't be able to love him because of the curse And how beautiful to be reminded that we all face a choice every day - do we love or not. Judith chose to love - knowing her future with Cesare would be limited.. Cesare and Judith's story touched my heart. Looking forward to reading Tennyson's story and hoping they find a way free from the curse. Enjoy!
April 7, 2025
Last night I may or may not have sat in my rocking chair, telling myself I'd read just one more chapter until before I knew what had happened I had finished the rest of the book 😶 I can't be the only one who has ever done this, right? Right?! Please tell me I'm not the only one.
This little novella is so good y'all! I loved the Brothers Maledetti series when I first read it, and it was so fun to revisit it with this prequel about their parents.
Judith and Cesare were perfect for each other. All their interactions with Judith trying to logically explain everything while Cesare tried to convince her of the validity of feelings were awesome. They had some great banter along the way as their friendship grew and developed into something more.
In addition to a great love story, this book has some great side characters, a fun summer trip through Europe, trips to museums, super cool historical details, a little bit of mystery and intrigue, and the sweetest epilogue ❤️ you definitely can't go wrong with all of that packed into one story.
If this one isn't on your TBR lists already, it should be! So read it and love it and thank me when you're done. Trust me friends, you won't regret it.
This little novella is so good y'all! I loved the Brothers Maledetti series when I first read it, and it was so fun to revisit it with this prequel about their parents.
Judith and Cesare were perfect for each other. All their interactions with Judith trying to logically explain everything while Cesare tried to convince her of the validity of feelings were awesome. They had some great banter along the way as their friendship grew and developed into something more.
In addition to a great love story, this book has some great side characters, a fun summer trip through Europe, trips to museums, super cool historical details, a little bit of mystery and intrigue, and the sweetest epilogue ❤️ you definitely can't go wrong with all of that packed into one story.
If this one isn't on your TBR lists already, it should be! So read it and love it and thank me when you're done. Trust me friends, you won't regret it.
February 8, 2025
Im sorry, but I hated this book so much. It was short, and I had already expected I wouldn’t like it based on reviews, so I kept going to get the back story before starting the Brothers Maledetti series, but it really was annoying. Nobody says “wowza,” or “more, more, more” in real life. The dialogue and inner thoughts of the main character were just so….idk. Contrived? The narration for the audiobook was the most annoying. How she tried to deepen her voice for the male character, but it just sounded dumb. For some reason, for a little while toward the end, the narrator changed the pronunciation of a main character’s name? That really bugged me. I’m sorry to rag on this so hard, but I’ve read, and enjoyed, so many of Nichole Van’s books it’s hard to believe she even wrote this; it’s so bad. Based on other reviews, I expect I’ll like the rest of the series more. Hopefully that’s the case.
April 3, 2021
When I picked this book up I had no real idea what it was about. I have to admit I started reading it solely based on the author. Nichole has written some wonderful books that I have adored and reread that I figured she had to have given the same amount of love and care to this one. And I was not wrong. I was hooked, very quickly and reading this first one made me want to gobble up the remaining books in her Brothers Maledetti series.
Judith and Cesare were a connection on sight. Cesare battles demons in his life and Judith doesn't believe in love. Together they overcome their struggles and have to decide if love is real, and if it is worth the short time they may have together. Their path isn't conventional by any means, but it is true, and otherworldly.
Judith and Cesare were a connection on sight. Cesare battles demons in his life and Judith doesn't believe in love. Together they overcome their struggles and have to decide if love is real, and if it is worth the short time they may have together. Their path isn't conventional by any means, but it is true, and otherworldly.
October 3, 2021
The prequel to the Brother's Maledetti series, and it tells the amazing love story of Judith, and American touring Europe with friends, and Cesare D’Angelo, a handsome and amazing Italian. The two of them have an undeniable attraction, and what is more, Judith feels like she may be falling in love for the first time in her life. But there are a few things standing in their way, one of which is Judith's "on a break" boyfriend back in the US, and the other is a dark secret that Cesare is afraid to share with her.
Such a great, clean romance, and I loved getting to read about their love story, especially because of how much of a part they play in the four other books, especially three and four.
Such a great, clean romance, and I loved getting to read about their love story, especially because of how much of a part they play in the four other books, especially three and four.
March 31, 2018
I loved this story! Judith Campbell and two friends are taking the vacation of a lifetime. Practical and level-headed, she intends to enjoy the sites before returning home and settling down to a steady job. Her plans, however, are derailed when she locks eyes with handsome Cesare D’Angelo and realizes her future may not be as decided as she thought. But the secret Cesare is hiding could be enough to keep them apart forever. Set in Florence, Italy in the early 1980’s, Nichole Van paints a masterful picture that puts you right in the story. The D’Angelo’s story is not complete with out this beautiful love story.
June 22, 2021
Nichole Van has a way of incorporating paranormal events into the regular world and making them feel so possible. And her characters end up being people I want to be friends with! Every book she writes is a treat, but this one was extra special - I read it after reading the full quartet, and was so happy to find this - one, because I loved Judith so very much in the series, and two because I ADORE prequels, and this one just didn’t disappoint in any way. As usual, the secondary characters were entertaining and relatable, and the main characters felt so real, finishing a book feels like losing a friend.
March 29, 2018
Lovers and Madmen hits a home run! The story of Cesare and Judith an excellent prequel to the series about the Maledetti brothers. It pits logic against feelings as Cesare and Judith spend the summer they met together...Judith not believing in romantic love but overcome by need; Cesare driven to have her because... Well, readers will just have to read to find out what drives Cesare. Be prepared to fall in love with these characters as you explore Italy. I can’t recommend this book and this series highly enough.
December 23, 2018
Beautiful
Such a lovely book. I wish I could articulate how much I enjoy reading this series without gushing, but why?
The relationship between Cesare D'Angelo and Judith Campbell is truly beautiful. They have an honest adoration for each other. Their relationship, amid great conflict, is a healthy mature love, based upon each wanting the most and best for each other.
"Lovers and Madmen" is the story of the parents of the Brothers Maledetti - Dante, Branwell, and Tennyson.
Highly Recommended.
*note to friends* this is a clean read
Such a lovely book. I wish I could articulate how much I enjoy reading this series without gushing, but why?
The relationship between Cesare D'Angelo and Judith Campbell is truly beautiful. They have an honest adoration for each other. Their relationship, amid great conflict, is a healthy mature love, based upon each wanting the most and best for each other.
"Lovers and Madmen" is the story of the parents of the Brothers Maledetti - Dante, Branwell, and Tennyson.
Highly Recommended.
*note to friends* this is a clean read
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