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Her Mob Past
Gabriella is pursued on every side and hiding a secret past. She is on the run for her life. A mob killer is after her, lusting for revenge. The widowed doctor is just lusting after her. Meanwhile, Gabriella has her hands full with her headstrong son and a sex-crazed, homicidal employer.
As a good Catholic, Gabriella knows she shouldn’t lie, lust or commit crime, but to protect her son she overdoes all three. When she finds a surplus of corpses at the funeral home where she works, she devises a desperate plan that hinges on seducing the upstanding doctor with some steamy sex. She doesn't expect to fall in love with him.
What will happen when all her lies start unraveling? Will the doctor still want her when he discovers that she’s from the wrong kind of family?
After offering a large reward, the killer finds her hiding in a small rural Australian town. He brings guns and his henchmen with him. Can she save herself and protect her son from the mob’s tentacles?
It’s The Sopranos on laughing gas!
Fans of Analyze This with Robert De Niro and Billy Crystal will love this hilarious page-turner filled with mayhem, underworld intrigue and aging mobsters trying to reform.
As a good Catholic, Gabriella knows she shouldn’t lie, lust or commit crime, but to protect her son she overdoes all three. When she finds a surplus of corpses at the funeral home where she works, she devises a desperate plan that hinges on seducing the upstanding doctor with some steamy sex. She doesn't expect to fall in love with him.
What will happen when all her lies start unraveling? Will the doctor still want her when he discovers that she’s from the wrong kind of family?
After offering a large reward, the killer finds her hiding in a small rural Australian town. He brings guns and his henchmen with him. Can she save herself and protect her son from the mob’s tentacles?
It’s The Sopranos on laughing gas!
Fans of Analyze This with Robert De Niro and Billy Crystal will love this hilarious page-turner filled with mayhem, underworld intrigue and aging mobsters trying to reform.
- GenresMystery
490 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 15, 2020
59 people are currently reading
25 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
March 25, 2021
As she said, laugh until you drop! Funny book.
May 26, 2020
I loved this book. Very few books make me laugh out loud while reading, but this one did. For a book, which involves the mob and killing, to be humorous is very rare. We have here a woman and her son on the run from her mob husband, a mob don in hiding in an old folks home, and a murder by the funeral director of a small Australian town. Put these plots together and add incredible humor and you have a winner. Can't wait to read the next one in the series!
April 11, 2020
I had mixed feelings about Her Mob Past, which is the first book in Victoria Kosky's Laugh Until You Die Series, when I came to the last page.
The story was interesting but I found the author's story-telling style somewhat disappointing. Some parts were choppy. Some parts were confusing. The promised laughter didn't make an appearance that I could see - one of the things which drew me to the book in the first place.
In spite of my stated disappointments, the story was a good one. I expect Kosky's story-telling style will grow, mature and improve over time as her characters develop. A decent mob-style mystery for fans of the genre.
The story was interesting but I found the author's story-telling style somewhat disappointing. Some parts were choppy. Some parts were confusing. The promised laughter didn't make an appearance that I could see - one of the things which drew me to the book in the first place.
In spite of my stated disappointments, the story was a good one. I expect Kosky's story-telling style will grow, mature and improve over time as her characters develop. A decent mob-style mystery for fans of the genre.
August 18, 2022
Murder Mystery In Melbourne, #1 - Started slow but the story picked up after a few pages. The characters are good; Zora is my favorite with Nick a close second. The story lines are interesting and after a while I was immersed in the pages. 4*
Murder Mystery on the Murray, #2 - While a little wordy, this story is interesting. Good characters. Good story lines with a good blending of the old with the new. A cult of over thirty years in existence but with new bits to update cult life. 4*
Murder Mystery on Thornton Peak, #3 - I like this better than the second book, which still was a good story. Interesting and intense with the subject matter, scientific and political, and the variety of characters. Well written, although Jane and Marta got on my nerves most of the story, with a good blending of the old and new story lines. Russell is a fun, interesting character along with Zora, of course. 5*
Murder Mystery in Toorak, #4 - Well written. Plenty of good, realistic characters. Interesting story lines. While I had a feeling who the murderer was, but not the motive, this was an interesting and entertaining story. Good drama. Good humor. a couple of "oh, my gosh" surprises to add even more meat to the story. I appreciated that some of my favorites from the Bible were quoted throughout the story. There is plenty for non-Christians to enjoy: gays; transgenders; shack ups, etc. 5*
Crime In The Country - Hard to put down. An interesting, intriguing read with a variety of interesting characters and immersing story lines. Good range of emotions, and believable dialogues. A touch of romance and humor, too. Good pace from the beginning. 5*
Death and Diamonds, #2 - I absolutely enjoyed this book. Funny, filled with drama, bad luck, miracles and love, I could not put the book down, until my phone needing charging, but just to 50%. Good characters. Good story lines. Well written. If you enjoy the movies Hard Word and Dirty Deeds, you'll like this series. 5*
Killer in the Vineyard, #3 - This book is more intense than the previous books. Sylvie is hard at work getting into trouble and falling in love. Good characters. Well written story lines. A successful blending of the old with the new made this addition to the series an interesting, intriguing read with a bit of humor through out. 4*
Mob Wife - I read this after Crime In The Country but it did not matter. The introduction to a young Vince and how their life together started. The first pregnancy occurs here. There will be a 16-year gap between the ending of this story and the start of the next, but all is explained in CITC. Read this first, then CITC. 5*
Murder Mystery on the Murray, #2 - While a little wordy, this story is interesting. Good characters. Good story lines with a good blending of the old with the new. A cult of over thirty years in existence but with new bits to update cult life. 4*
Murder Mystery on Thornton Peak, #3 - I like this better than the second book, which still was a good story. Interesting and intense with the subject matter, scientific and political, and the variety of characters. Well written, although Jane and Marta got on my nerves most of the story, with a good blending of the old and new story lines. Russell is a fun, interesting character along with Zora, of course. 5*
Murder Mystery in Toorak, #4 - Well written. Plenty of good, realistic characters. Interesting story lines. While I had a feeling who the murderer was, but not the motive, this was an interesting and entertaining story. Good drama. Good humor. a couple of "oh, my gosh" surprises to add even more meat to the story. I appreciated that some of my favorites from the Bible were quoted throughout the story. There is plenty for non-Christians to enjoy: gays; transgenders; shack ups, etc. 5*
Crime In The Country - Hard to put down. An interesting, intriguing read with a variety of interesting characters and immersing story lines. Good range of emotions, and believable dialogues. A touch of romance and humor, too. Good pace from the beginning. 5*
Death and Diamonds, #2 - I absolutely enjoyed this book. Funny, filled with drama, bad luck, miracles and love, I could not put the book down, until my phone needing charging, but just to 50%. Good characters. Good story lines. Well written. If you enjoy the movies Hard Word and Dirty Deeds, you'll like this series. 5*
Killer in the Vineyard, #3 - This book is more intense than the previous books. Sylvie is hard at work getting into trouble and falling in love. Good characters. Well written story lines. A successful blending of the old with the new made this addition to the series an interesting, intriguing read with a bit of humor through out. 4*
Mob Wife - I read this after Crime In The Country but it did not matter. The introduction to a young Vince and how their life together started. The first pregnancy occurs here. There will be a 16-year gap between the ending of this story and the start of the next, but all is explained in CITC. Read this first, then CITC. 5*
June 23, 2020
Her Mob Past – A Laugh Until You Die Mob Book #1 - by Victoria Kosky
Gabriella (not her real name) has been on the run from her mob boss husband for over 15 years. She lost her first child, a daughter, when her husband Vince stole some diamonds from a another mob family. They came to kill him but missed and shot their daughter instead. When she found out she was pregnant again and that Vince was going to jail, she knew she had to leave, to save herself and her child.
As the book opens, she has just heard that Vince is going to testify at another mobster's trial and will earn his freedom from jail with his testimony. She realizes that she has to move herself and her son, Joe, as far away from Vince as she can, again, and she knows Joe will give her a hard time – he always does – but he was just making at this school and was doing so well. This time she will go to Vince's hometown, a town he swore he would never set foot in again, at the SW Victorian border of Australia, about as far away from Sydney as you can get. Hopefully she and Joe will be safe there.
And that's just the beginning! When they get there Gabriella goes to work for a funeral director whose wife has disappeared after having an affair with another man, and whose son is a consigliere for a Don who wants to move into and invest in an old folks home in the same small town. The local doctor becomes besotted with Gabriella and makes up reasons to go and see her wherever she is which is the last thing she needs.
When Ms. Kosky titled this series 'The Laugh Until You Die' Mob books she wasn't kidding! How Gabriella gets into and out of each scrape along the way is hilarious and at every turn there is the doctor offering to help her with whatever the trouble is. I can definitely guarantee you several laughs as you work your way through this first book. Enjoy!
Gabriella (not her real name) has been on the run from her mob boss husband for over 15 years. She lost her first child, a daughter, when her husband Vince stole some diamonds from a another mob family. They came to kill him but missed and shot their daughter instead. When she found out she was pregnant again and that Vince was going to jail, she knew she had to leave, to save herself and her child.
As the book opens, she has just heard that Vince is going to testify at another mobster's trial and will earn his freedom from jail with his testimony. She realizes that she has to move herself and her son, Joe, as far away from Vince as she can, again, and she knows Joe will give her a hard time – he always does – but he was just making at this school and was doing so well. This time she will go to Vince's hometown, a town he swore he would never set foot in again, at the SW Victorian border of Australia, about as far away from Sydney as you can get. Hopefully she and Joe will be safe there.
And that's just the beginning! When they get there Gabriella goes to work for a funeral director whose wife has disappeared after having an affair with another man, and whose son is a consigliere for a Don who wants to move into and invest in an old folks home in the same small town. The local doctor becomes besotted with Gabriella and makes up reasons to go and see her wherever she is which is the last thing she needs.
When Ms. Kosky titled this series 'The Laugh Until You Die' Mob books she wasn't kidding! How Gabriella gets into and out of each scrape along the way is hilarious and at every turn there is the doctor offering to help her with whatever the trouble is. I can definitely guarantee you several laughs as you work your way through this first book. Enjoy!
May 9, 2020
I find myself in uncharted territory. I was curious to see what Booksprout was all about. So I joined the site and was looking for something in my favorite genres of cozy mysteries and/or clean romances. The cover and title for this book drew me to it so I downloaded it with the agreement to leave an honest review after reading. I didn’t know what to expect from this book as I soon discovered that it did not fit into either genre I favor. There are a few people (not the main characters) in the story with potty mouths. I cannot label the romance as “clean”, although probably more along the lines of PG-13. There is violence; however, it is limited to only a couple of scenes. I did not detect any of the promoted laughter although I did shed a few tears. Some of the characters where English is not their first language have very stilted dialog.; but I accept that realism (even if it seems it a little choppy for me to follow). After reading the last page, I realized that I did enjoy reading this story… a lot and look forward to reading the next book of the series. If you are looking for a "squeaky clean" story, you probably will want to pass on this book. If you are looking for a well-told story with plenty of human emotion, and a probable PG-13 rating, I highly recommend you read this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 14, 2020
I don’t normally read Mob books, but, I’m an ARC reader so had to. I was agreeably surprised by it. The Mob leader decided it was time he remembered he was supposed to be good, to please God. (The story mainly takes place in Nagambie in Victoria. A place I know reasonably well. Before lockdown! There is a great bakery there!)(Just for those who may be able to visit!) So he takes himself off to live in a Retirement Home in Nagambie. No one knows his background so it’s a new start. The main characters are a single mother & her son, Joe. Hiding to save her life.
I’m looking forward to the next book.
I’m looking forward to the next book.
May 14, 2020
This is one of the best novels I've ever read. I was particularly fond of one of the main characters who reminded me so much of my late father, who stole a train! A little forensic science, some insight into the lives of the elderly, more diversity than you would find on the Orient Express. Some quirky humor. Most books can't hold my attention for more than a chapter, and I've probably read more academic literature than novels, however this one just got more engaging as I went along.
I read the last 100 pages without a break.
I read the last 100 pages without a break.
May 13, 2020
A thoroughly entertaining, good read. The characterisation is exceptional, I could easily imagine knowing each of the characters personally. The humor added into conversation added to enjoyment of the storyline. The relationship between Gabriella/Maria and the Don was a little predictable after their first meeting but this in no way marred the unfolding story. No doubt, some of the characters will rollover into the sequel and this is eagerly anticipated.
May 13, 2020
I received an advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. For a first novel I thought it was interesting enough to keep my attention until the end. Billed as having some funny portions I would say not so much. If you are looking for a good story regarding the mob and a mystery then I would recommend this. It has a way of drawing you back until the end and helps pass the time, which is what a book should deliver
May 13, 2020
This is the first book I have read by Victoria Kosky. I was not sure what to expected but was well entertained. The characters are starting to come to life and make an impression on you, wanting to know more about them. There were a few laugh out loud parts and those that made me shake my head. Overall it was worth my time and I am looking forward to more in this series. I had received and ARC copy and this is my honest review.
June 23, 2020
I found this first book in series to be a well written page turner.
Gabriella is a quite likable and the contributing characters are definitely off beat and fun.
All in all it is a fun mystery, filled with suspense, a lot of humor and romance.
I have to say I enjoyed the PG-13 cozy mystery feel. A bit edgier than most, making for an excellent read.
I'm looking forward to reading book two in the series.
I luckily received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Thank You Victoria Kosky!
Gabriella is a quite likable and the contributing characters are definitely off beat and fun.
All in all it is a fun mystery, filled with suspense, a lot of humor and romance.
I have to say I enjoyed the PG-13 cozy mystery feel. A bit edgier than most, making for an excellent read.
I'm looking forward to reading book two in the series.
I luckily received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Thank You Victoria Kosky!
July 3, 2020
Victoria Kosky just really have a fantastic sense of humor cause it shows in this story of a woman and son running from the mob! Anything and everything that can go wrong with the mob looking for the girl and her son,it went wrong! Lies,sex,laughter,crime all into one little story! The characters really do come out in the story,but I got confused at times. First time reading and looking forward to more of this story!
March 27, 2025
First of all, I really enjoyed how the story unfolded. It kept me on the edge of my seat.
Cleverly written, mob-enthralling excitement throughout. It became more and more obvious how Gabriella's fears and overprotectiveness toward her son were warranted.
And I must mention that the dynamic between 'the Don' & Pasquale, along with all of the crazy shenanigans at the elderly group hostel was comical.
Wonderfully entertaining!
Cleverly written, mob-enthralling excitement throughout. It became more and more obvious how Gabriella's fears and overprotectiveness toward her son were warranted.
And I must mention that the dynamic between 'the Don' & Pasquale, along with all of the crazy shenanigans at the elderly group hostel was comical.
Wonderfully entertaining!
May 19, 2020
This is the 1st book I've read written by Victoria Kosky; she has done a great job at writing a good book; I can’t wait to read more of her books.
The story line caught my attention at the very beginning and kept me interested throughout the entire book.
I loved the characters.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
The story line caught my attention at the very beginning and kept me interested throughout the entire book.
I loved the characters.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
May 21, 2020
HER MOB PAST is the first book in the Laugh Until You Die series and is a great start to this series.
I really enjoyed this book and found the characters to be likable and interesting. The storyline is well crafted and entertaining, with secrets, mystery, danger, humour, and romance.
I am looking forward to the next book in this series.
I read and reviewed this book with no obligation.
I really enjoyed this book and found the characters to be likable and interesting. The storyline is well crafted and entertaining, with secrets, mystery, danger, humour, and romance.
I am looking forward to the next book in this series.
I read and reviewed this book with no obligation.
November 27, 2020
1st in series.
I found this first book in series to be page turner.
Gabriella is whitty as well as off beat and fun; a well are her friends and "frenimes"
All in all it twisy, turny, mystery filled with suspense, a lot of humor and some romance.
I have to say the cozy mystery feel alittle edgier than most.
I do recomend reading this one.
I found this first book in series to be page turner.
Gabriella is whitty as well as off beat and fun; a well are her friends and "frenimes"
All in all it twisy, turny, mystery filled with suspense, a lot of humor and some romance.
I have to say the cozy mystery feel alittle edgier than most.
I do recomend reading this one.
February 19, 2021
This is a brilliant read.
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believable.
Great suspense and action with wonderful world building.
Can't wait to read what the author brings out next.
Recommend reading.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believable.
Great suspense and action with wonderful world building.
Can't wait to read what the author brings out next.
Recommend reading.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
April 9, 2020
The author calls this a "comedic mob" story. Mobs are not usually my type but I thoroughly enjoyed this. Some intense romance built into an excellent story. I'll be getting the 2nd book as soon as I can.
May 13, 2020
This is my first book I read by Victoria Kosky and can't wait to read the rest of this series. My only reason I didn't rate it a 5 star was that the comedic value was not as strong as I wanted. But still a great story and enjoyable even if you don't like books about the mob.
May 13, 2020
I loved this book! A story of a woman and her son running from her husband. Very interesting and fun storyline filled with lots of interesting complex and quirky characters! There were times I laughed out loud! I received an Arc copy and so happy to leave this review! A must read!
May 19, 2020
Gabriella and her son Joe are on the run from the mob. As they settle into a small town and start to find happiness, what could happen? I enjoyed this fun, entertaining story with its cast of characters. I received an arc of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 4, 2020
Loved this book so much, I bought it from Amazon Australia. Victoria’s writing is so captivating. I loved all of the characters so much I think I will miss having them in my life now I’ve finished. I shed a tear or two and I laughed out loud. Such a great book, highly recommend!
September 9, 2020
I really like this story because I got hooked at the end of each chapter to read the next chapter. There are a lot of women who leave their abusive husbands and this woman did it for years but she finds out more about her past that she never knew.
June 1, 2020
Cozy mystery meets Italian mob! I enjoyed reading my arc to follow the twists and turns of Gabby's adventures. There is a little romance, some bad Italian and I look forward to reading the next book to see what adventure awaits!
September 14, 2020
Sorry, not my "cup-of-tea". Finished it, but shan't read other "Mob" books
July 12, 2020
First time reading Victoria Kosky. Enjoyable well crafted storyline All subplots after twisting and turning are nicely tied together. Look forward to delving further into the lives of characters I received an ARC of this book to review
July 23, 2020
Entertaining and laugh out loud funny. Her Mob Past is a clever story of secrets and new beginnings. Most of the characters start off with tough exteriors but somehow you can't help but fall in love with them as you go through the twists and turns of this adventure. Totally worth reading. I'm looking forward to the next book in this series.
September 24, 2021
I enjoyed this romantic suspense story. This action packed book kept me entertained throughout. If you enjoy romantic suspense with plenty of humor, you will love Her Mob past. I received this book as an ARC and this is my honest review.
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