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Enemy Duet #1

Forgetting the Enemy

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Michael Vitali, head of the Vitali crime organization is charismatic, handsome and strong-willed. He’ll do whatever it takes to get what he wants and right now the only thing he wants is Zaira Bonita, the eldest daughter of the Vitali’s most rivaled family.

At one time, Michael and Zaira were very close. But, a tragedy caused false accusations and the families were torn apart.

Years later the families come together to eliminate a common enemy. It was a carefully and well thought out hit.

But not everything goes as planned.

At her engagement party, Zaira watches while her father and fiancée are murdered. She frantically tries to get away, but falls and hits her head. She awakes and finds herself with an awful headache and no memory caught up in a world that she is vaguely familiar. Her only guide - Michael Vitali.

Michael has Zaira right where he wants her and will do anything to keep her. He will even resort to manipulation and deceit. He knows there is a chance that when she does remember she won’t be able to forgive him, but he’s willing to risk his heart - for her.

225 pages, Paperback

Published January 8, 2019

46 people are currently reading
159 people want to read

About the author

Amy Cecil

52 books1,069 followers

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Biography
Amy Cecil is an award-winning Indie author of both historical and contemporary romance. Her penchant for Austen fan fiction, won her the title of Favorite Historical Romance Author (2016-2017) while her MC series has won several awards throughout the Indie community. Recently, she has expanded her repertoire to the thriller and erotic genres.

For as long as she can remember, Amy always had a book (or two) that she was reading for the love of getting lost within its pages. Amy has been heard to have said, “I’ve never given much thought to becoming a writer myself until I realized that if I hadn’t written my own version of Mr. Darcy, I might have run out of material to read.”

And thus, her first novel was born, A Royal Disposition. In the words of Miss Austen herself, “I wish as well as everybody else to be perfectly happy; but, like everybody else, it must be in my own way.” Ms. Cecil writes to do just that.

She lives in North Carolina with her husband, Kevin, and their four dogs. When she isn’t creating her next masterpiece, or traveling the country for book signings, she enjoys spending time with her husband, friends, and of course her fur babies.

“Face life as you find it-defiantly and unafraid.” -Nietzsche


You can follow Amy on the following:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authoramycecil/
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/authoramycecil
Twitter: https://twitter.com/acecil65
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/author/amycecil
Website: http://acecil65.wix.com/amycecil

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5 stars
84 (60%)
4 stars
35 (25%)
3 stars
13 (9%)
2 stars
4 (2%)
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4 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
Profile Image for Chasity.
688 reviews8 followers
January 9, 2019
There aren't enough stars to rate this book! I loved her MC series but Michael & Zaira's story absolutely blew me away. One of the best books I've read this year! From deceit to love, violence and heat, plus the storyline is enchanting. Amy Cecil writes to make you feel and you'll definitely feel the angst in this one! A definite must read and I will be anxiously awaiting book 2!
Profile Image for Kemberlee Snelling.
488 reviews2 followers
December 24, 2018
What can I say about this book? It is amazing. Amy writes an enthralling story that grabs hold from the start and holds on to the end. You feel the passion, emotions, angst of these characters. A must read for sure but be warned it does end in a cliffhanger.
380 reviews6 followers
December 22, 2018
Amy Cecil nailed it in her first mafia book. It has everything you'd expect from a mob family plus the tender hearted side added in. I loved meeting all the new characters and getting to know them. Can't wait for the next book!
Profile Image for Alison.
847 reviews5 followers
November 24, 2018
Forgetting the Enemy
(Enemy Duet Book 1)
By Amy Cecil

Michael Vitali, is head of the Vitali crime organization. He is also very strong willed, good looking, and he just oozes charm when he wants. He also gets whatever he wants and right now he wants Zaira Bonito, the oldest daughter of the Vitali's most rivaled family.

There was a time when Michael and Zaira were close, but that was a long time ago before tragedy and false accusations tore their families apart. Now years later the families come together so that they can get rid of a common enemy. The hit was well thought out however not everything goes as planned.

Zaira Bonito watches her father and fiancee murdered in cold blood at her engagement party. When she hears the shots she frantically tries to run to safety, but falls and hits her head. When she wakes up she finds herself with a horrible headache and no memory of who she is.

Michael has Zaira exactly where he wants her and that is with him. He will do whatever it takes to keep her with him. He also knows that there is a chance that when she does remember she might never be able to forgive him, but he's willing to take that chance. He's more then willing to risk his heart for her.

Amy Cecil pens a riveting story full of love, lies, deceit, and murder. I was so engrossed with this book that I couldn't put it down. This is definitely Amy Cecil at her best and I can't wait for the next book to come out.
Profile Image for Christine Lacombe.
292 reviews16 followers
December 27, 2018
I just got through reading Forgetting the Enemy and I’m trying to figure out how to write this review. Why you ask? Well for starters, I freakin’ love it. ❤️🥰❤️ I love Michael and his entire family. I love Zaira, Vince and Mia. I love Michael and Zaira together. Their sex scenes are so darn hot 🔥. The action scenes are so exciting, kept me on the edge of my seat.
Amy Cecil has a way with the words of her books. Her descriptions make me feel like I was right there and the stories keep me enthralled.
I hated Zaira’s father and Victor with a passion. 😡 They truly got what they deserved.
This book has me filled with so many emotions, happy, sad, fearful, hopeful, excited. And for all of these reasons I’m giving it 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️. More if could!! 🥰🥰
My only problem is mine and has nothing to reflect on the author and her work. Because as I said, I freakin’ love it. I just don’t like cliffhangers. 😔
But that being said, take a chance, I don’t think you will be disappointed, I wasn’t!! Now I’m just anxiously awaiting for the next book!!
Profile Image for Elfina Renee.
611 reviews225 followers
February 9, 2019
DNF wasn't my cup of tea....maybe you'll have better luck.
Profile Image for Rhonda Hicks.
4,599 reviews82 followers
January 11, 2019
Holy Hell!! This book will take you on a journey the which you've never read and force you to deal with a plethora of emotions. What I thought I'd figured out, turned out to be wrong. The path Michael and Zaira have had to travel was a hard one and unfortunately, Amy Cecil has graced us with a MAJOR cliffhanger in this one. This is a mafia book with a heart and all the evil that surrounds it. You'll be sorry if you miss this one.
Profile Image for Yannie Sorensen.
18 reviews
December 16, 2018
A stellar book that grabs the reader from the beginning and holds them hostage past the ending, with a desperation to know how every little facet will play out. A seemingly believable glance into some of the more minor inner-workings of an Italian mobster family, and it manages to twist the audience's heart- hoping against hope that things will simply work out for the protagonists. It's heart-breaking, in the best way, to see the hero's growth throughout the novel and to see where it culminates. Not once did the story drag, but the end loomed closer and faster than one would like. A rarity in the romance world that deserves a minimum of ten stars!
Profile Image for maureen.
615 reviews5 followers
January 9, 2019
Organized crime, when I find a book that has all the pieces that make a perfect mafia story, I’m all in. Amy Cecil writes an organized crime family brilliantly. I felt all the old world ties with a modern day feel.
I honestly couldn’t get enough of Ziara and Michael, the angst the push and pull. I loved how the story is written so seemingly, flowing along pulling me into their ruthless world. It’s a story about how the family is run and how love can change things. Michael is being groomed to run the family and he is in love with a woman who doesn’t remember him. It a story of mystery, lies and all the things we will do to get what we want. I fell in love with Michael and Ziara. I can’t wait to find out where the characters take us. I will say this, Amy Cecil is taking on organized crime and taking no prisoners. Absolutely my favorite organized crime novel of the year!!!
11 reviews
December 5, 2018
Absolutely fantastic book by a fantastic author i would recommend amy cecil books to anybody. Had me hooked from start to finish, the way the characters are portrayed you cant help but want them to have their happy ending. The ending has me wanting more can not wait for next book.
Profile Image for Nikki  M (Hot books and Sassy girls).
1,102 reviews92 followers
December 3, 2018
Forgetting the Enemy by Amy Cecil
The Vitali and the Bonito families were once considered very close friends until tragedy and false accusation caused a rift between them. Now they are arch rivals. Years later Michael Vitali takes over his father’s organisation as the head of the family. Vince Bonito contacts Michael and asks for a favour to protect his sister, Zaira. Michael ever the opportunist decides this can work in his favour; after all, he has always wanted Zaira for himself. When the plot is put into action, not all goes to plan and Zaira is injured causing her to lose her memory. Michael uses this to his advantage and lands up telling a few lies or rather omitting some of the truths to get what he wants. After all, this is the woman he wants and so far it is working in his favour, but what happens when her memory comes back? Can she forgive him for the lies or will her memory be scrambled causing more problems for both of them? The author has given us an enthralling story of lies and deceit. Michael seems to dig himself deeper into a web of lies only to try and protect Zaira. Zaira is a strong character and I liked her sass. The chemistry between the two protagonist sizzles. The story has plenty of building climax, a few plot twists, and great characters. It does end on a cliff-hanger and I cannot wait for the second instalment of this duet.
Reviewed for Hot books and Sassy Girls book blog
Profile Image for Ann L.
4,738 reviews39 followers
January 9, 2019
Wow what a fabulous starter this book is, part of a duet, it's thrilling, it's nail biting, edge of your seat trepidation as Michael Vitalli tries to stop Zaira Bonito from finding the truth, her family and The Vitallis are rival families after a misunderstanding years earlier caused the rift, at Zaira's engagement party her father and fiancee are killed and she hits her head and loses her memory, Michael is there to help her and take care of her, what will happen if her memory returns. Honestly you are going to love this but beware as this is part of a duet it does end on a cliffhanger, and I can't wait for the next one.

I received a copy and I am voluntarily leaving my own honest opinion
Profile Image for Teri.
3,918 reviews36 followers
January 3, 2019
She couldn't remember what they were or who he was, but she felt connected to him and trusted him. He just wanted to keep her safe but got caught up in one lie after the next trying to keep her safe and just to have a chance for her to love him. But nothing is ever that simple and neither is this story. That is just a glimpse of one aspect of this story because it is so much more. The fact that it ends in a cliff-hanger tells you that much and yeah I can't wait to see where she takes us from here. There is much left in the air including the chance for their hea. I love the characters, she's feisty and doesn't back down. She's strong, her time with her father insured that. He's a man in love and not thinking with brain but following his heart. That's not always a bad thing but it gets him in deep. Family dynamics and brain washing and broken hearts and the stories not done. Awesome read from an author I have not had the pleasure of reading before but she has definitely caught my attention with this read.
Profile Image for Penny Riley.
204 reviews6 followers
January 9, 2019
I was so captivated by this book. Ms. Cecil has created this Italian family who just happens to be involved in some illegal activities. The characters are real and very likable. The story has intrigue, sex, love, loyalty and betrayal. The ending left the main characters at an impasse but our creative author will write the ending they deserve. Kudos on another exciting series. I highly recommend anything written by Amy Cecil.
Profile Image for E&A Book.
730 reviews1 follower
January 2, 2019
An edge of your seat Mafia romance with twists, turns, lies, secrets, and betrayal. It will keep you turning the pages and leave you wanting more. I can not wait for the next book.
Profile Image for Autumn Bryant.
482 reviews1 follower
January 2, 2019
An edge of your seat Mafia romance with twists, turns, lies, secrets, and betrayal. It will keep you turning the pages and leave you wanting more. I can not wait for the next book.
Profile Image for LaChelle Funk.
92 reviews1 follower
December 30, 2018
What a book. I love mafia books and Amy out did herself. This books kept me wanting more. I enjoyed it all and loved the chemistry between the 2 characters. I also enjoyed at how she connects the MC series with it. I am on pins and needles for the next one.
Profile Image for Ann.
1,937 reviews32 followers
January 12, 2019
I absolutely loved this book. The twists and turns had me on a rollercoaster of emotions. I loved the strong, well developed characters of Michael and Zaira. Zaira is independent, intelligent and strong willed. She didn't allow Michael to walk all over her. He needed to prove his love and loyalty to her. I found Micahel sexy, an alpha worth loving. I loved the crossover of other characters from Amy's other books. This book does end on a cliffhanger! Brillant book, so worth reading!
Profile Image for Tiffany.
470 reviews
December 28, 2018
I love mafia romance! This is my first read by Amy and I really enjoyed it. It is a very fast read and very intriguing!

I am totally on team Michael and I hope that Zaira can get on the team!
Profile Image for Energy Rae.
1,754 reviews55 followers
December 5, 2018
Zaira is the daughter of a Don and what he says goes. So when he orders her to marry someone she doesn't even like, she must go along with it, for her father's sake. There was a time growing up where she thought she would marry Michael Vitali. The Vitalis are heads of a powerful crime organization and Michael is due up to run it.

He's sexy, strong, and has a clear head for what needs to be done. For a long time, he too thought he would be marrying Zaira. But a rift has been caused in the family and the girl he spent so much time with growing up has drifted further from his reach.

When Zaira's brother steps in to help her, it brings Michael back into the fold and even closer than Zaira could have imagined. The only problem is, she's lost her memory. So how can she and Michael ever have a future when she doesn't remember her past?

*swoon*
I think I could use a bit of Michael in my life. He's a bit bossy and Zaira gives it right back. She knows how to play the game and it drives him wild. He's even got a bit of a jealous streak. I love these two together. They're super fun and the chemistry between them is smoking hot. They're perfect together and it makes a girl dream that these two can have their happy ever after.

107 reviews5 followers
January 10, 2019
Michael Vitali is the Dom of one of the most powerful Crime Mafia’s in New York. Zaria is also from a crime mafia, but her family is not so nice. Michael and Zaira have been friends for years, and they are about to embark on one hell of a emotional roller coaster ride.

It is impossible not to be spellbound by the way Ms.Cecil forces readers to think, hard, about right and wrong. She forces us to consider Michael and Zaira’s side.

Few books are so engaging, so enraging that it captures the readers attention and demands to be read in one sitting.

Cecil has a uncanny way to bring the reader inside the mind, body, and soul of each character.

Well done! One of the best books I have read all year.
Profile Image for Alicia Reads.
474 reviews43 followers
January 8, 2019
Amy Cecil has taken mafia, ruthlessness, love and understanding and shook it all up. Get ready to fall in love and to hate Michael and Zaira! Will true love conquer all or will it just fade and crack?  You will have to find out for yourself.

Amy Cecil has once again blown my mind and I cannot wait for the next book to see what really happens.

Profile Image for Amanda Horton.
25 reviews
January 10, 2019
Amy Cecil knows how to write MC books. But Michael and Zaira's story was absolutely amazing. It has violence, love, heat. Everything that you are looking for in a Mob story. Michael and Zaira was destined to be married. But one mishap happens and takes that away. Does Michael and Zaira have what it takes to over come it and get the happy ending they deserve? One click to find out. You definitely won't regret it.
Profile Image for Kristi.
1,345 reviews
January 4, 2019
At one time Michael and Zaira were destined to marry, but jealousy and the struggle for power destroyed that from happening. Now fate has put her in Michael's path again and he's vowed to never let her go. Zaira can't remember the man who claims to be her fiancé, but one glimpse into his kind eyes and she knows this is a man she can trust. This dark romance is filled with lies, deceit, revenge, and betrayal. The cliffhanger will leave you wanting to know what will happen next. I look forward to reading the next book in this series.
Profile Image for Jamillah Smith.
441 reviews1 follower
January 10, 2019
I love me a good Mafia story. And Amy Cecil gave what I was looking for. With twist and the suspense and the lies.... just brilliant!!! Loved every minute of it. Great job!!!
Profile Image for K.  Ramjohn.
2,517 reviews
April 8, 2020
Forgetting The Enemy was an engrossing mafia tale that will have you at the edge of your seat. Filled with love, loyalty, betrayal, revenge, lies and deceit, with developed, likable characters who had intense chemistry, hott steamy scenes, some twists you won't expect and a cliff-hanger that will leave you wanting more, this novel will have you riveted and anxious for the next book to know what happens next. I would recommend this novel to all lovers of mafia romance.
The audiobook was narrated by Mark Bravo, Maya May Bravo. They are two new to me narrators and I enjoyed their style of narration. They had great pace and timing and brought the story to life. It was a pleasure listening to them narrate this novel.
AudiobookObsession
955 reviews4 followers
June 14, 2019
Really confused about why this is a duet. This could have been wrapped up in one book if the author hadn't let the characters run away from her on pages of nonsense and unwanted inner dialogue. Whilst the book was okay, i am not invested enough to want to know what happens to this couple..inevitable they will get back together after no doubt a few more misunderstandings and avoiding actual talking together whilst the hapless brother looks on.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Nicole Dunton.
1,419 reviews37 followers
April 9, 2020
Michael and Zaira grew up together. They were very close. They were both children of very prominent Families. Both their parents thought they would grow up and marry each other. Until the tragic loss of Zaria's mother. Michael's father is accused of killing her and their families are torn apart. They haven't spoken in five years when Zaria's father agrees to marry her off without even consulting with her first. She confides in her brother who decides that their father must be stopped at all costs. Even if that means removing him from the situation entirely.
I'm going to start this review by stating one simple fact that I'm learning more and more with each Amy Cecil book. Amy Cecil is pure evil. She knows exactly how to hook you in and then leave you hanging. I know this sounds like an insult. It's not. I'm just stating that she's an evil genius. I've read multiple books by her and I've loved every single one of them. This book has been no exception to that. I especially loved the small reference to another series that I read of hers. It was great!
I only had a few small issues with this book. The biggest was the time flow. It doesn't really clarify when the type jumps forward or how far forward it jumps ahead. Well, I can't say that about every single instance. There are times it is clarified. There are also times that it isn't. It's a very small issue that didn't really hurt the story at all. I will warn the reader that this book does contain a cliffhanger ending. That's an Amy Cecil stamp. Did I mention she was pure evil?
This book was narrated by Mark and Maya May Bravo. If I'm not mistaken, they have narrated other books by Amy Cecil as well. They did a great job on this one. They have done an amazing job on all of the audiobooks I've listened to that they did quite honestly. I didn't have as positive of an opinion of them at first. I retract that. It was me not being as into the audiobook world as I am now. I definitely see how great of a quality they have now.
Did I love the book? Yes. I did very much. Will I read the second book? Of course! It's taking a lot of willpower not to grab the book now and devour it. Amy Cecil has quickly become one of my favorite authors of all time. I love her style. She makes the most cringy troupes alluring. She even rocks a cliffhanger. I'm still going to say that she's pure evil. I can't help it that I love that brand of evil.
Profile Image for Shedevilreads Bookstagram.
2,118 reviews107 followers
March 30, 2020
Forgetting the Enemy by Amy Cecil is a mafia romance that I listened to on audio narrated by mark Bravo and Maya Bravo. This is the first book in The Enemy Duet so it’s no surprise that the book ends on a cliffhanger.

I absolutely love Amy’s books! She really knows how to tell a story that you can get lost in. You can’t help but fall in love with Michael and Zaira. I cannot wait for the second book Loving the Enemy to be released on audible.

Mark and Maya did an amazing job on the narration. They really know how to bring a story to life.

AudiobookObsession
AudiobookObsessionReviewer
Profile Image for Siyka.
1,243 reviews2 followers
February 17, 2019
The writing was so great that I could picture the scenes very easily and vividly.
The characters were strong and real, the chemistry great, the twists and turns challenging.
Mysteries, lies, family feud and love... Quite a story indeed!

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