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Dark Mafia #1
Sweet and Vicious
My brother and I run the mob around here. I don’t mess with civilians. But when I see a beautiful girl in trouble, I can’t stop myself from rescuing her.
She’s out cold, at the mercy of guys who have bad intentions. I take her home with me, tuck her into bed, and get on with my business.
Easy, right?
Until she wakes up and sees something she shouldn’t have. Something that could get her killed. Something I should kill her for.
But I won’t. I can’t.
Instead, I keep her locked up. My own personal plaything. A beautiful captive I can’t set free or resist.
I’ve spent my life avoiding relationships with women. But now? She belongs to me.
And I will never, ever let her go.
She’s out cold, at the mercy of guys who have bad intentions. I take her home with me, tuck her into bed, and get on with my business.
Easy, right?
Until she wakes up and sees something she shouldn’t have. Something that could get her killed. Something I should kill her for.
But I won’t. I can’t.
Instead, I keep her locked up. My own personal plaything. A beautiful captive I can’t set free or resist.
I’ve spent my life avoiding relationships with women. But now? She belongs to me.
And I will never, ever let her go.
ebook
Published March 20, 2020
311 people are currently reading
318 people want to read
About the author
Joanna Blake
65 books1,662 followersJoanna Blake loves good old fashioned romance, men who open doors and work with their hands. Hot Blooded Heroes is a series of sizzling stories about True Blue American men and the women who love them. She's thrilled to be collaborating with Pincushion Press on her new series! Come along for the ride!
XoX,
Joanna
*********
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XoX,
Joanna
*********
Sign up for Joanna's mailing list for news on new releases, special book deals and more! https://tinyletter.com/JoannaBlake
Joanna loves to hear from her fans! Please contact her at JoannaBlakeRomance@gmail.com
You can also follow her on twitter:
https://twitter.com/JBromancenovels
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 124 reviews
March 26, 2020
Obviously I’m in the minority here. Probably because I have read some amazing mafia romances that have stuck with me for days and fell in love with some serious anti-hero’s. But this was not one of those reads. I kept reading thinking wow this is cringeworthy, the hero, the insta-lust, the story and the dialogue.
March 21, 2020
This was a really good book. At first I thought it was going to be a very dark romance because of the blurb mentioning of a captive and it involving the mafia but it was actually quite mild. So if you like some darkness to your books but not over the top dark than this one would be a perfect option to read. I like sweet books and I like extremely dark books so it doesn't matter to me.
Antonio is a very obsessive, possessive alpha male personality. He's confident and determined. He knows Evangeline is his the moment he sees her. The story is pretty much an insta love from his perspective but it took a little longer for Evangeline. She is an innocent and sweet woman. Caring and polite.
This is not a mafia heavy book. It is developed more around Evangeline and Antonio than it is with his place in the mafia itself. The only thing I thought to be a con with this story is how Evangeline reacted with the news of her captivity. It just didn't feel like there was enough reaction or at least how I thought one would react to it anyway. But besides that I thought it was a really good read and will be looking for more books from this author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Antonio is a very obsessive, possessive alpha male personality. He's confident and determined. He knows Evangeline is his the moment he sees her. The story is pretty much an insta love from his perspective but it took a little longer for Evangeline. She is an innocent and sweet woman. Caring and polite.
This is not a mafia heavy book. It is developed more around Evangeline and Antonio than it is with his place in the mafia itself. The only thing I thought to be a con with this story is how Evangeline reacted with the news of her captivity. It just didn't feel like there was enough reaction or at least how I thought one would react to it anyway. But besides that I thought it was a really good read and will be looking for more books from this author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 2, 2020
This author never disappoint. Always great books and I'm a huge fan....
This book is GREAT! its a nice getaway book if you want to escape from the real world into fairytale. HUGE YES!
--- LOVE IN FIRST SIGHT.
the hero is so romantic about it omg...
Like a electricity and the hero immediately knows the heroine is the one for him! He does not believe in love because what he been through but he put those negative thoughts away and just focused on the heroine. HE WANTS HER SOOO BAD.... AT FIRST AND ALWAYS ALL THE TIME...
HE ALWAYS SO SWEET TO HER!!!
this hero gives me all the AWWW... AWWW
~~~ THE HERO is in the mafia something like that but he is not too complicated hero.
~~~ THE HERO IS OTT POSSESSIVE PROTECTIVE ALPHA MALE. but not many jealous scene from the hero tho.
~~~ I LOVE THAT THE HEROINE IS NOT TOO ANNOYING when the hero said he wants to keep her and even being very protective to her. He won't let her leave his apartment because thats how much he wants the heroine all the time. I know it sounds a bit odd but i think its sweet. The heroine never bother about it anyway...
~~~ NO SEPARATION
~~~~ NO CHEATING
~~~ NO PUSHING AWAY
~~~ QUICK SAFE HOT ROMANTIC LOVE STORY! Even when they didn't do it yet, the hero goes to his single brother and his brother and friends talks about someone else and asked him to go out with them.... HE DECLINED and he said he is loyal. Like in a very romantic way he said it...
Some guy: It's your last night as a free man.
HERO: I WASN'T A FREE MAN FROM THE MOMENT I MET HER.
~~~ HOT SMUT SCENES! Also the hero is so hot like he told her that this feels good...
~~~ THE HERO is not a virgin. ONLY THE HEROINE IS A VIRGIN. NO PAST PARTNERS EVER MENTION. AND when they do it for the first time is when they actually married. WOWWWWWW
~~~ NO DRAMA WITH OM AND OW.
~~~ HAPPY ENDING! Married, and a child. So happy and very much in love...
This book is GREAT! its a nice getaway book if you want to escape from the real world into fairytale. HUGE YES!
--- LOVE IN FIRST SIGHT.
the hero is so romantic about it omg...
Like a electricity and the hero immediately knows the heroine is the one for him! He does not believe in love because what he been through but he put those negative thoughts away and just focused on the heroine. HE WANTS HER SOOO BAD.... AT FIRST AND ALWAYS ALL THE TIME...
HE ALWAYS SO SWEET TO HER!!!
this hero gives me all the AWWW... AWWW
~~~ THE HERO is in the mafia something like that but he is not too complicated hero.
~~~ THE HERO IS OTT POSSESSIVE PROTECTIVE ALPHA MALE. but not many jealous scene from the hero tho.
~~~ I LOVE THAT THE HEROINE IS NOT TOO ANNOYING when the hero said he wants to keep her and even being very protective to her. He won't let her leave his apartment because thats how much he wants the heroine all the time. I know it sounds a bit odd but i think its sweet. The heroine never bother about it anyway...
~~~ NO SEPARATION
~~~~ NO CHEATING
~~~ NO PUSHING AWAY
~~~ QUICK SAFE HOT ROMANTIC LOVE STORY! Even when they didn't do it yet, the hero goes to his single brother and his brother and friends talks about someone else and asked him to go out with them.... HE DECLINED and he said he is loyal. Like in a very romantic way he said it...
Some guy: It's your last night as a free man.
HERO: I WASN'T A FREE MAN FROM THE MOMENT I MET HER.
~~~ HOT SMUT SCENES! Also the hero is so hot like he told her that this feels good...
~~~ THE HERO is not a virgin. ONLY THE HEROINE IS A VIRGIN. NO PAST PARTNERS EVER MENTION. AND when they do it for the first time is when they actually married. WOWWWWWW
~~~ NO DRAMA WITH OM AND OW.
~~~ HAPPY ENDING! Married, and a child. So happy and very much in love...
March 21, 2020
Joanna Blake did not disappoint!! Sweet and Vicious is a spin-off from the Untouchables and Devil’s Riders MC series. It follows Tony Margarelli as he does what he needs to do to protect his sweet and innocent Evangeline. Heads roll and hearts melt, with this mafia romance. I really enjoyed this book, only thing is I would have loved to hear more of Evangeline’s backstory. But it is still a very good book, and I highly recommend it.
March 21, 2020
I loved this author and I loved this book. I could not believe how good this book was. It was written so well and the characters and chemistry were amazing. Really good book.
April 29, 2020
KU*
2.5 stars
This is definitely an insta-love romance.
May have some spoilers below:
I really wanted to like this book because I love mafia romances, but unfortunately, this book fell a little flat for me. I don’t mind insta-love romances if they are done properly, but some of the things that took place throughout the book were a bit over the top and a bit creepy at times.
I want to start with Antonio at first his instant interest in Evangeline seemed sweet with some hotness, but it quickly morphed from something swoon-worthy to obsessive. He sees Evie, saves Evie, and then decides to keep her forever; now there was an incident that Evie witnessed that she shouldn’t have, but he had already decided to keep her. Then he manages to maneuver events so that now she has to marry him to be “safe.” This continues throughout the book, Antonio wants something then he does whatever he wants to make it happen.
Now for Evie, I really wanted to like her, she is a fellow book lover and all, but I couldn’t understand the level of naïveté in basic safety. She doesn’t put up a fight for her freedom and pretty much let’s Antonio do whatever he wants. She’s not even allowed to walk about the compound, he confined her to his room and only allows her out with his escort. She gives up her family, friends, schoolwork just because he seemed like a gentlemen with dark side.
Also I have stated in the past, I am not a fan of books where the man decides the future for them both. I hate it when the hero decides he wants a kid and the heroine doesn’t, but he goes about knocking her up anyway.
I did love the relationships between the brothers, Antonio and Vincent. I would love to know what happened to Tiny after the Sara incident.
I am still unsure about the whole Dad situation since it seemed easy enough to fix that issue.
I really wanted to like this book but the kidnapping, coerced marriage, and the over the top dominating man and weak willed woman just don’t do it for me.
I am intrigued about Vincent’s book however.
2.5 stars
This is definitely an insta-love romance.
May have some spoilers below:
I really wanted to like this book because I love mafia romances, but unfortunately, this book fell a little flat for me. I don’t mind insta-love romances if they are done properly, but some of the things that took place throughout the book were a bit over the top and a bit creepy at times.
I want to start with Antonio at first his instant interest in Evangeline seemed sweet with some hotness, but it quickly morphed from something swoon-worthy to obsessive. He sees Evie, saves Evie, and then decides to keep her forever; now there was an incident that Evie witnessed that she shouldn’t have, but he had already decided to keep her. Then he manages to maneuver events so that now she has to marry him to be “safe.” This continues throughout the book, Antonio wants something then he does whatever he wants to make it happen.
Now for Evie, I really wanted to like her, she is a fellow book lover and all, but I couldn’t understand the level of naïveté in basic safety. She doesn’t put up a fight for her freedom and pretty much let’s Antonio do whatever he wants. She’s not even allowed to walk about the compound, he confined her to his room and only allows her out with his escort. She gives up her family, friends, schoolwork just because he seemed like a gentlemen with dark side.
Also I have stated in the past, I am not a fan of books where the man decides the future for them both. I hate it when the hero decides he wants a kid and the heroine doesn’t, but he goes about knocking her up anyway.
I did love the relationships between the brothers, Antonio and Vincent. I would love to know what happened to Tiny after the Sara incident.
I am still unsure about the whole Dad situation since it seemed easy enough to fix that issue.
I really wanted to like this book but the kidnapping, coerced marriage, and the over the top dominating man and weak willed woman just don’t do it for me.
I am intrigued about Vincent’s book however.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 9, 2020
Sweet and Vicious was a good read. It was deliciously over the top with a renowned womanizing mob prince who couldn't help but fell for a sweet and innocent girl the first time he saw her. What started out as a marriage of convenience due to unusual circumstances for Evie turned out to be the real deal at the end.
The story was entertaining, the writing was flowing. It was light on drama, just what I needed.
The story was entertaining, the writing was flowing. It was light on drama, just what I needed.
April 21, 2020
More character driven and light on mafia . Hero is very jealous and possessive and I loved him . Real chemistry between him and the heroine . It was basically just possession and jealousy and the hero treating the heroine like a queen . Sometimes I need that after a ton of heavy reads . If you like jealous and possessive heroes then this is a worth while read .
April 1, 2020
Loved the book it was great, the story was well written and the characters are interesting. Once I started I could not put the book down from start to finish you just could not get enough with twists and turns hot and steamy like a rollercoaster ride of emotions that makes you want more with Antonio helps his brother run the mafia, the do have legitimate companies. Evangeline was drugged at a pub that Antonio, as soon as he sees her he picks her up and take her home for himself.
Thank you for allowing me to review your book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Thank you for allowing me to review your book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 1, 2020
1st time author
This was just good nothing special
I am excited about the brother .
This was just good nothing special
I am excited about the brother .
August 28, 2020
Insta everything on the Hero’s part. He had to say I love you 3 times before heroine said it back.
Mafia man that isn’t super alpha but I do feel like thats how this author writes most of her Heros.
Mafia man that isn’t super alpha but I do feel like thats how this author writes most of her Heros.
May 11, 2020
Mafia and dark romances are my favorite tropes to read. Based on the blurb, that’s what I thought I was getting, the “dark” was mild. So if you’re into a milder dark romance where there’s not a lot of blood, war, and sexually explicit scenes, then this one is for you.
However, this story is centralized around Tony and Evie, and I have to say I enjoyed the focus on them. They had chemistry as soon as their eyes locked. Tony and Evie come together in an unlikely circumstance. The mafia bad boy with a heart of gold and the innocent, angelic college student.
With the chemistry they have, Tony takes his time with Evie. Allowing her to process her new life and why she has to be with him. Tony is the epitome of the novel title. He’s sweet and vicious when needed.
I wish there was more drama. It was only in the beginning of the book and then faded. I kept sensing something happening to Evie, but nothing occurred. After she accepted being with Tony and his lifestyle, everything was peachy.
I was hoping for more due to it being mafia. That doesn’t take away that I absolutely loved their story.
However, this story is centralized around Tony and Evie, and I have to say I enjoyed the focus on them. They had chemistry as soon as their eyes locked. Tony and Evie come together in an unlikely circumstance. The mafia bad boy with a heart of gold and the innocent, angelic college student.
With the chemistry they have, Tony takes his time with Evie. Allowing her to process her new life and why she has to be with him. Tony is the epitome of the novel title. He’s sweet and vicious when needed.
I wish there was more drama. It was only in the beginning of the book and then faded. I kept sensing something happening to Evie, but nothing occurred. After she accepted being with Tony and his lifestyle, everything was peachy.
I was hoping for more due to it being mafia. That doesn’t take away that I absolutely loved their story.
April 28, 2020
Insta-lust/love. Super cheesy at times. Kind of cringe. This just wasn't my type of book.
April 20, 2020
Sweet, yes. Viscious, not so much. Antonio is second in command of the Margarelli family and he's no angel but he falls head over heels for Evangeline the moment he lays eyes on her. When she sees something she shouldn't see, it's the perfect excuse to keep her locked away while he does his best to try and win her heart. And does he ever!
I really loved everything about this steamy story. It captured me from page one and I couldn't put it down. The writing is great. I am crazy about Tony and I love that he's so protective of and devoted to Evie. This romance is sexy and sweet and I loved it. I can't wait for Vincent's story. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
I am voluntarily reviewing an advance reader copy of this book.
I really loved everything about this steamy story. It captured me from page one and I couldn't put it down. The writing is great. I am crazy about Tony and I love that he's so protective of and devoted to Evie. This romance is sexy and sweet and I loved it. I can't wait for Vincent's story. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
I am voluntarily reviewing an advance reader copy of this book.
April 6, 2020
During his reign, Francisco Margarelli seemed to go out of his way to torture and kill those who stepped out of line or went against him - even his two sons Vincent, the eldest, and Antonio, both having scars riddling their bodies. During Vincent's grooming for "take-over," Antonio enjoyed a playboy's life, his days filled with his father's illegal biddings and his nights partying with more than one woman gracing his bed.
When Francisco "steps aside," Vincent asks Antonio to step-up and be his "right-hand" man, to lead the family into more legal areas of business, Antonio realizes it's time to grow up!
During a nightcap at a club that Antonio owns, his eyes stray to a beautiful young woman, and suddenly, he feels like he has been struck by lightning, coming face-to-face with his future - Evangeline. After being dragged to this club by her roommate, a sheltered Evangeline finds herself alone at the bar, being surrounded by slimy predators who see Evangeline as easy prey. Antonio, who can't keep his eyes away from her, notices one of the "slimes" slip a "date-rape" drug into her wine and immediately comes to her rescue, forced to bring Evangeline back to his place when she passes out. While Evangeline recovers in Antonio's flat, his over-whelming desire only grows, and he begins planning how he will "acquire" Evangeline not just as his girlfriend but as his wife. A frustrated Antonio knows how slowly his seduction will need to be because he can sense how "ingenue" Evangeline is. That is until, while looking for Antonio, she sees a hysterical woman swinging (not telling!) sealing her fate and allowing Antonio to "keep" her forever. I LOVED their story, and I am hoping, fingers crossed, that Vincent is next!
When Francisco "steps aside," Vincent asks Antonio to step-up and be his "right-hand" man, to lead the family into more legal areas of business, Antonio realizes it's time to grow up!
During a nightcap at a club that Antonio owns, his eyes stray to a beautiful young woman, and suddenly, he feels like he has been struck by lightning, coming face-to-face with his future - Evangeline. After being dragged to this club by her roommate, a sheltered Evangeline finds herself alone at the bar, being surrounded by slimy predators who see Evangeline as easy prey. Antonio, who can't keep his eyes away from her, notices one of the "slimes" slip a "date-rape" drug into her wine and immediately comes to her rescue, forced to bring Evangeline back to his place when she passes out. While Evangeline recovers in Antonio's flat, his over-whelming desire only grows, and he begins planning how he will "acquire" Evangeline not just as his girlfriend but as his wife. A frustrated Antonio knows how slowly his seduction will need to be because he can sense how "ingenue" Evangeline is. That is until, while looking for Antonio, she sees a hysterical woman swinging (not telling!) sealing her fate and allowing Antonio to "keep" her forever. I LOVED their story, and I am hoping, fingers crossed, that Vincent is next!
April 19, 2020
Loved this book! Loved how Tony took one look at Evie and knew she was it for him. It might have taken Evie a little longer but that's understandable. I also really loved the bond between the brothers and can't wait to see what happens for Vince!
April 19, 2020
Joanna Blake didn't disappoint with this book! Anyone who knows me knows I love mafia and mc and this book has both! I can't wait to see what Blake gives us next!!
April 12, 2020
I really loved reading this new release from Joanna Blake. I loved how as soon as Antonio saw Evangeline, he was a goner, and he did not want to let go of her. I loved how protective he was of her when they first met. Although he is in the mafia, that will not stop him from going after the woman that he knows he has to keep forever. There is nothing better than a man who is obsessed with this woman from the begging. Evangeline was an excellent match for Antonio because she said what she thought. I liked this book as well as their HEA. The only thing I tough was unnecessary was mentioning that he was such a womanizer. I mean, there was no drama from any woman, so I don't get why it had to be mentioned. Other than that, I loved everything he did in order to keep Evangeline in his life, loved, and happy. I hope we don't have to wait for book 2.
March 23, 2020
This is such a super swoony read!! I don't think that there is anything hotter than a tough guy that is brought to his knees by love and that is exactly what you get in this wonderful romance. If you have read this author's The Devil's Riders series and/or The Untouchable series, The Margarelli Brothers and its mafia family will be familiar to you and if not you have nothing to worry about because this book will stand very easily on its own. As I love both of those series, I have been wanting and waiting for these guys to get their own book and Tony's sure didn't disappoint!! Anthony was an incredible book boyfriend. He is a study in contrasts. A man that can be dangerous and violent but he can also be romantic, protective and incredibly sweet. I truly feel head over heels for this man. Evangeline was a character that I liked a lot but if I'm 100% honest I wish I could have liked her more. I now that their story wasn't conventional but he treated her like a queen, would do anything to make her happy and constantly chose to put her needs first. This man was fully committed from the second he laid eyes on her and it was love not lust that was the driving force behind his actions. So I guess, what I'm saying is I wish I had got more of that intense love vibe from her too but it never really materialized. Still, I really liked them as a couple and I enjoyed every minute of their tale. Just so you know there is a bit of darkness here and a touch of BDSM elements (light bondage & spankings) but nothing too dark or over the top. I loved it and I can hardly wait to read Vincent's book ASAP!
March 24, 2020
Every gal needs a man like Antonio!
Antonio rescues Evie after her drink is drugged in his nightclub. Unfortunately, by the time she's recovered and ready to leave, she witnesses something that can't easily be explained in the Margarelli family mansion, requiring that they keep her inside until they know for certain that she won't be making trouble for them. Antonio has no problem with this, because he's already in love with her and his solution is to tie her to the family by marriage. Evie eventually realizes that she doesn't really have a better option, and Antonio is exactly the kind of guy she's always dreamed of. Except for his family's illegal activities.
I remember Tony and his brother, Vince, from one of this author's earlier books, and was thrilled to see her write his story. This is a fascinating tale of a mob family whose current generation is trying to take the business in a more legitimate direction, yet they're still hampered by established alliances and the elder generation who doesn't think anything needs to be changed.
It's a nearly-perfect story; I was distracted by a couple continuity issues that begged for a good editor, but the romance is solid and not at all as forced as the situation would seem to present. Evie isn't some wilting flower, and I loved that the author let her independence shine even while most of her choices were taken away. Their HEA is absolutely perfect, and Antonio is quite charming as a man wholly captivated by his bride. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
Antonio rescues Evie after her drink is drugged in his nightclub. Unfortunately, by the time she's recovered and ready to leave, she witnesses something that can't easily be explained in the Margarelli family mansion, requiring that they keep her inside until they know for certain that she won't be making trouble for them. Antonio has no problem with this, because he's already in love with her and his solution is to tie her to the family by marriage. Evie eventually realizes that she doesn't really have a better option, and Antonio is exactly the kind of guy she's always dreamed of. Except for his family's illegal activities.
I remember Tony and his brother, Vince, from one of this author's earlier books, and was thrilled to see her write his story. This is a fascinating tale of a mob family whose current generation is trying to take the business in a more legitimate direction, yet they're still hampered by established alliances and the elder generation who doesn't think anything needs to be changed.
It's a nearly-perfect story; I was distracted by a couple continuity issues that begged for a good editor, but the romance is solid and not at all as forced as the situation would seem to present. Evie isn't some wilting flower, and I loved that the author let her independence shine even while most of her choices were taken away. Their HEA is absolutely perfect, and Antonio is quite charming as a man wholly captivated by his bride. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
April 12, 2020
I wasn’t sure how I was going to like this particular book because mafia genre isn’t my favorite one. This wasn’t too bad. Antonio wasn’t as bad as he could have been and he definitely had a thing for Evangeline. Of course, Evangeline is young and innocent, which is a turnoff for me. The premise is kind of far fetched as, most women wouldn’t be thrilled in being kept and having to marry a mobster. The one saving grace is that Antonio and his brother, Vincent, are working hard to become legit. It’s an interesting book and easy to read.
March 22, 2020
Another amazing read by Joanna Blake!
Tony is part of a mob family, Evie is a sweet and innocent girl. Tony saves her from a bad situation and ends up taking her home with him. The next morning she sees something that would likely have her killed. But by this point Tony is ready to protect her not have her killed. He just has to convince her of this. She's scared, but I believe enthralled by Tony at this point. He doesn't want to let her leave him. So he comes up with the logical solution of her marrying him, because a wife can not testify against her husband. That's what he wants her to believe anyway, at that point he is already in love with her. So to keep herself safe and her mother she agrees to marry him. On their wedding day his father makes a speech about them having babies which scares her even more because she doesn't know what kind of life her children would have being born into a mob family. Tony finally admits to her he loves her and that is why he can not let her leave him. He takes her on a honeymoon where she finally admits that she indeed has fallen in love with him. I love the way Tony is very protective of her. He doesn't want anything to ever harm her. I love the way she bargains with him to be able to return to her classes and of course he relents and let's her cause he just wants her to be happy. Great book of a man in the mob gets knocked to his knees by a sweet and innocent woman he never saw coming. Awesome read!
Tony is part of a mob family, Evie is a sweet and innocent girl. Tony saves her from a bad situation and ends up taking her home with him. The next morning she sees something that would likely have her killed. But by this point Tony is ready to protect her not have her killed. He just has to convince her of this. She's scared, but I believe enthralled by Tony at this point. He doesn't want to let her leave him. So he comes up with the logical solution of her marrying him, because a wife can not testify against her husband. That's what he wants her to believe anyway, at that point he is already in love with her. So to keep herself safe and her mother she agrees to marry him. On their wedding day his father makes a speech about them having babies which scares her even more because she doesn't know what kind of life her children would have being born into a mob family. Tony finally admits to her he loves her and that is why he can not let her leave him. He takes her on a honeymoon where she finally admits that she indeed has fallen in love with him. I love the way Tony is very protective of her. He doesn't want anything to ever harm her. I love the way she bargains with him to be able to return to her classes and of course he relents and let's her cause he just wants her to be happy. Great book of a man in the mob gets knocked to his knees by a sweet and innocent woman he never saw coming. Awesome read!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 25, 2020
ONE FANTABULOUS EXPERIENCE!!!
Roll with it! Joanna brings it on home with this sensational spin, delivering one thrilling storyline and gripping plot, with such ingenuity, imagination, along with intellect and a unique insight for detail, melding this gem together sleek, shiny and tight. Sparks fly as drama, underlying currents, misgivings, intrigue, turmoil, secrets, danger, mounting suspense and chaotic situations, along with a boatload of trouble while dodging calamity, you have one prize winning masterpiece. A surging vortex chocked full of baffling circumstances and fervent events, blasts those swirling emotions into play front and center. Heating up the chemistry, elevating the attraction, witnessing the sizzle flowing through the pages, alluring and mesmerizing, binding them to one another beautifully. Anarchy, escapades and havoc run amuck, kicking this bad boy into a raging tempest, blasting it into a tailspin with a mind-blowing culmination. The dynamics and countenance in layer upon layer that you peel back with each page your drawn into this web so deep until everything else ceases to exist. The characters are complex and authentic with depth and traits that blend and flow, transforming into genuinely relatable personalities. The scenes are so graphically detailed and descriptive it's like being transported to ground zero with them. Remarkable job Joanna, thanks for sharing this bad boy with us.
Roll with it! Joanna brings it on home with this sensational spin, delivering one thrilling storyline and gripping plot, with such ingenuity, imagination, along with intellect and a unique insight for detail, melding this gem together sleek, shiny and tight. Sparks fly as drama, underlying currents, misgivings, intrigue, turmoil, secrets, danger, mounting suspense and chaotic situations, along with a boatload of trouble while dodging calamity, you have one prize winning masterpiece. A surging vortex chocked full of baffling circumstances and fervent events, blasts those swirling emotions into play front and center. Heating up the chemistry, elevating the attraction, witnessing the sizzle flowing through the pages, alluring and mesmerizing, binding them to one another beautifully. Anarchy, escapades and havoc run amuck, kicking this bad boy into a raging tempest, blasting it into a tailspin with a mind-blowing culmination. The dynamics and countenance in layer upon layer that you peel back with each page your drawn into this web so deep until everything else ceases to exist. The characters are complex and authentic with depth and traits that blend and flow, transforming into genuinely relatable personalities. The scenes are so graphically detailed and descriptive it's like being transported to ground zero with them. Remarkable job Joanna, thanks for sharing this bad boy with us.
April 11, 2020
Mobster Tony meets sweet, innocent, smart and studious, virginal and kind Evangeline - he see's her across the bar; their eyes meet - when Tony sees something happening, he immediately puts a stop to it. He saves her from certain events, that at the time, are, beyond her control. He takes her to his home, and 'never' lets her leave - her life changes, sometimes good, sometimes not so good; but they fall in love - and their lives are forever altered.
March 26, 2020
Well, Joanna Blake has absolutely done it again! I have been wanting to read about the Margarelli brothers since I first met them in Luck of the Devil. Tony did not disappoint! I’m looking forward to reading Vince’s story! Tony comes to Evie’s rescue and never lets her go! It’s a wonderful read. While I enjoyed the book and the tension, I had a hard time connecting to the female lead, Evie. She had great inner dialogue, but she wasn’t as strong as she needed to be. While she did not lack in character development or character traits, I would have enjoyed her character more if she had stood up to Tony more. As a mafia prince, Tony was going to have a strong, pushy personality. I loved Tony. While well-meaning, Evie did not quite stand up to him when she should have. She attempted to, but ultimately fell in line without much of a fight. With that being said, I love the way Joanna Blake writes and creates this world. I liked the characters in this spinoff, even though I didn’t connect to Evie. Without a doubt, she will connect with many readers. I hope you take the time to jump into this world and enjoy the fabulous writing of Joanna Blake!
I received an advanced copy of this manuscript and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I received an advanced copy of this manuscript and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
April 11, 2020
I always love a Joanna Blake book and this one definitely didn't disappoint. Falling in love immediately, drama, chemistry, LOL moments, amazing and lovable characters and a story line that keeps your interest from start to finish. I sat and read this one in one day because I could not put it down. I would absolutely recommend this one!!
March 25, 2020
This was one seriously hot Mafia romance! Joanna Blake knows how to spin a seductive tale of a bad man who finds a good girl and makes her his own. Asking for a friend, is it really kidnapping if you want to stay? Tony spots Evangeline in his bar and he is hooked. He saves her from some unsavory types and brings her home with him. When she sees something she shouldn't have, he can't let her go. Secretly thrilled that he was able to keep her, he sets out to win her. Evie is so attracted to Tony but gets twisted up in the idea she shouldn't be since he is keeping her prisoner. How can they ever have a happy ending living the Mafia life? This was absolutely enthralling! Tony is a big ole softie when it comes to Evie but his obsession isn't going to wavier. She will stay with him, not only to protect his family but because he cannot live without her. Evie's desire to stay with Tony was so awesome. She doesn't keep fighting her feelings and pulling away which has gotten on my nerves in other stories. They were made for each other and it shows in every moment they are together. Simply put, Sweet and Vicious was a phenomenal read!
February 25, 2022
Sweet and Vicious, is book one in the new Margarelli brothers Dark Mafia series.
Antonio Margarelli (Tony) runs the local mafia with his older brother Vince, along with a few legal and illegal businesses. Who knew that sitting at one of his bars one night changes his life forever. Evangeline Hanson (Evie) is a quiet college girl who lets her roommate Sara convince her to go out for drinks one night, only to discover that the bar Sara chose isn’t your typical college bar. When Tony see the girl abandoned by her friend, and someone slip a drug into Evie’s drink, he does the only thing he can think of, rescue her before it’s too late. Only when he brings her home, and she wakes to see something she shouldn’t, does Tony realize that is plan to keep her for himself just became an important part of keeping her alive. Can Tony keep Evie locked in a gilded cage and still make her fall in love with him? Or will Evie find out who Tony really is and push him away?
Can’t wait to read the rest of this series.
Antonio Margarelli (Tony) runs the local mafia with his older brother Vince, along with a few legal and illegal businesses. Who knew that sitting at one of his bars one night changes his life forever. Evangeline Hanson (Evie) is a quiet college girl who lets her roommate Sara convince her to go out for drinks one night, only to discover that the bar Sara chose isn’t your typical college bar. When Tony see the girl abandoned by her friend, and someone slip a drug into Evie’s drink, he does the only thing he can think of, rescue her before it’s too late. Only when he brings her home, and she wakes to see something she shouldn’t, does Tony realize that is plan to keep her for himself just became an important part of keeping her alive. Can Tony keep Evie locked in a gilded cage and still make her fall in love with him? Or will Evie find out who Tony really is and push him away?
Can’t wait to read the rest of this series.
April 10, 2020
I voluntarily reviewed an arc of this book.
I really enjoyed this story, I found it to be a well-written mafia romance with a fast-paced intriguing storyline. I liked both characters, plenty of chemistry between them.
I really enjoyed this story, I found it to be a well-written mafia romance with a fast-paced intriguing storyline. I liked both characters, plenty of chemistry between them.
March 22, 2020
This is a great mafia love story.
This is the story of Antonio & Evangeline. Antonio is in the mafia. His brother mainly rules the family, but Antonio helps him. They own legitimate businesses. One is a bar where Evangeline's friend convinces her to go. Antonio definitely is mesmerized by her when their eyes meet in the mirror. She gets roofied in Antonio's bar, which he doesn't allow. He takes her home for her to recover. At one point, she sees something she shouldn't have in his house. He cannot let her go now, for sure, although he wanted to keep her from the beginning. It all begins there. The feelings in this book are obsession and possession on Antonio's part. Love is a feeling between them. Antonio would do anything for Evangeline. For the most part, he is gentle and kind to her. I really enjoyed this book. It's a definite page-turner for sure. I'm looking forward to the next read of Joanna Blake.
This is the story of Antonio & Evangeline. Antonio is in the mafia. His brother mainly rules the family, but Antonio helps him. They own legitimate businesses. One is a bar where Evangeline's friend convinces her to go. Antonio definitely is mesmerized by her when their eyes meet in the mirror. She gets roofied in Antonio's bar, which he doesn't allow. He takes her home for her to recover. At one point, she sees something she shouldn't have in his house. He cannot let her go now, for sure, although he wanted to keep her from the beginning. It all begins there. The feelings in this book are obsession and possession on Antonio's part. Love is a feeling between them. Antonio would do anything for Evangeline. For the most part, he is gentle and kind to her. I really enjoyed this book. It's a definite page-turner for sure. I'm looking forward to the next read of Joanna Blake.
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