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Grassi Family #1
The Woman at the Docks
You didn’t have to be in the criminal underbelly to understand one fundamental rule: You don’t mess with the mafia.
But what other choice did she have?
In the gritty town of Navesink Bank, Luca Grassi reigns as the capo of the town’s mafia, and maintains strict control over the docks, where clandestine black market products flow into the area.
When a determined woman trespasses on his territory, Luca’s world is thrown into disarray.
Caught between duty and desire, Luca finds himself drawn to the beautiful and mysterious intruder.
But Romy isn’t your ordinary trespasser. She’s on a mission to learn the truth behind her sister’s disappearance. And this truth might just lead right into the heart of the empire of the man she’s just starting to love…
But what other choice did she have?
In the gritty town of Navesink Bank, Luca Grassi reigns as the capo of the town’s mafia, and maintains strict control over the docks, where clandestine black market products flow into the area.
When a determined woman trespasses on his territory, Luca’s world is thrown into disarray.
Caught between duty and desire, Luca finds himself drawn to the beautiful and mysterious intruder.
But Romy isn’t your ordinary trespasser. She’s on a mission to learn the truth behind her sister’s disappearance. And this truth might just lead right into the heart of the empire of the man she’s just starting to love…
250 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 25, 2020
586 people are currently reading
1077 people want to read
About the author
Jessica Gadziala
161 books5,384 followersJessica Gadziala is a USA Today bestselling author who lives in rural New Jersey with her parrots, dogs, and an ever-growing collection of houseplants. A lifelong dreamer, she’s been writing stories since childhood and published her first book in 2015. When not at her desk, she’s usually feeding backyard birds, rewatching crime dramas, period pieces, and 90s supernatural TV shows, or adding to her towering stacks of unread books.
You can find her on
Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/Jessica-Gadz...
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xx
You can find her on
Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/Jessica-Gadz...
Newsletter: subscribepage.io/K4GPfj
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessicagadz...
Her Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/31454...
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/jessicagadz...
xx
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 216 reviews
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January 8, 2022
I hesitated to read this series for the longest time due to the fact that I didn't want add-on to my Navesink Bank universe anyone who has read that Navesink Bank Universe knows that there was a clusterfuck of criminal activity from street gangs to loan sharks to paramilitary camps. The Henchmen MC , Professionals , Mallick Brothers , Next Generation etc.…… So now we got the mafia in Navesink Bank
Getting several recommendations from Friends… So, I finally I decided to check out the first book and go from there! I would make my decision if I wanted to continue reading the series cuz I knew that Jessica mentioned that there was five families and I imagine the each family would get collective series of their own
I immediately fell in love with both the main character and also the sub characters and their personalities and I'm definitely looking forward to getting more of these characters in the future books
So welcome to the Grassi family drama in Navesink Bank
We start off this series with the oldest son and him being the underboss Luca Grassi and Romina who has come from humble beginnings, who is looking for something in the wrong place and possibly time as well… or is it? Only time will tell
Romina's—Romy's-She is a translator in the court system for the state of California
Romy knows how risky it is looking for something in Grassi 's families shipping yard. The problem was, this was a time-sensitive matter.
And after Romy was confronted the first time by Luca Grassi and his men, she knew common sense said that she needed to lay low for a couple of days, let security get lax…….. but who said that Romy had common sense right now
Will Romy be asking herself in the end – Luca, why did he have to go and be so lovable? Who gave some mafia underboss the right to be so perfect?
Or will she be saying anything at the end of this story when the bullets start flying
I love how Luca comes off all dark and serious, but he's got a soft heart, specially when it comes to Romy…… Will the man will risk his family motto of ‘Family over everything” for her?
I just love how this read has a little suspense, a little humor, a lot of sass and a good dose of fiery chemistry.oh and we can’t forget how funny Luca and his cousins get along
I JUST LOVED LOVED THIS NEW SERIES
July 5, 2020
Spoilers ahead, 2.5*
In 2017 I think? I discovered this author and devoured her books..... However at present I find her books to be too familiar. Almost evert one feels the same and the plot of this one was actually similar to the plot of the last one I read from her
I've been longing for the Grassi boys books since I first met the family.....yet this was disappointing. I expected Luca to be a huge bad ass I mean it's the mob.....but nope it was the blandest mafia book I've ever read in my life
Lots and lots of internal monologues
Even the sex scenes were similar to previous books
I like this author and believe she's talented but something isn't working for me presently, I liked the surprise of the bad guy's identity....I admit to being caught off guard.
*****this author has excelled at her epilogues in every book I've read from her but this book ended abruptly!!! Whyyyyyyy??!!!!
No cheating
Sex trafficking though no explicit details
H wasn't a manwhore and hadn't been with anyone in months
No OW/OM drama
In 2017 I think? I discovered this author and devoured her books..... However at present I find her books to be too familiar. Almost evert one feels the same and the plot of this one was actually similar to the plot of the last one I read from her
I've been longing for the Grassi boys books since I first met the family.....yet this was disappointing. I expected Luca to be a huge bad ass I mean it's the mob.....but nope it was the blandest mafia book I've ever read in my life
Lots and lots of internal monologues
Even the sex scenes were similar to previous books
I like this author and believe she's talented but something isn't working for me presently, I liked the surprise of the bad guy's identity....I admit to being caught off guard.
*****this author has excelled at her epilogues in every book I've read from her but this book ended abruptly!!! Whyyyyyyy??!!!!
No cheating
Sex trafficking though no explicit details
H wasn't a manwhore and hadn't been with anyone in months
No OW/OM drama
Read
September 18, 2020DNF @35%
Too slow
Too much information dumping
Too many characters
Too slow
Too much information dumping
Too many characters
May 18, 2023
Jessica Gadziala is not afraid to kill side characters, so I was worried about these silly, goofy mafia men the entire novel!
MAIN CHARACTER NAMES
Romina “Romy” | Luca Grassi
SUMMARY
In her search for her missing sister, Romy is forced to trespass onto Grassi Family territory. When she’s inevitably caught, she is warned away by underboss, Luca Grassi. Of course, she can’t give up, so she goes back searching the very next night.
After Luca finds her snooping once more, he captures her and forces her to explain herself. When he hears her side of the story, he agrees to investigate, but he can’t let her leave.
Romy then escapes after being subtly threatened by Family members. Promising he is an ally and that he believes she is telling the truth, Luca hides her in his home, where the attraction and affection between them progresses into a loving relationship.
REVIEW
All things considered, The Woman at the Docks is relatively low angst, low drama, and low action—not in a bad way.
Romy’s animosity and snark toward Luca did not last long, but it was fun while it was present. Their relationship was very much instalove-y, without the over-the-top devotion and possessiveness that oftentimes accompanies the trope.
Romy showed she was softhearted (and strong) yet she retained her snarky humor, and Luca managed to be doting and affectionate while being a mafia underboss. Although the progression of their relationship was quick, the pair had chemistry. I enjoyed their slice-of-life moments more than I did the external plot.
The story with the trafficked women girls was horrific, and I wish we’d gotten more resolution e.g. what happened to the women and girls they didn’t find and the ones that were already sold? The conclusion was abrupt and convenient, the antagonist ambushing the main characters on a relatively random night.
Despite the heavy themes, at the novel’s core is a sweet love story. Maybe it won’t be the most memorable of the series, but their connection and loyalty to each other is solid.
OW/OM DRAMA none
CHEATING none
THIRD ACT BREAKUP no
ENDING HEA, although no epilogue/flash forward
POV dual / first person
SPICE LEVEL 4 / 5
RATING 3.5 / 5
SPOILERS
content warning:
Romy’s Missing Sister
MAIN CHARACTER NAMES
Romina “Romy” | Luca Grassi
SUMMARY
In her search for her missing sister, Romy is forced to trespass onto Grassi Family territory. When she’s inevitably caught, she is warned away by underboss, Luca Grassi. Of course, she can’t give up, so she goes back searching the very next night.
After Luca finds her snooping once more, he captures her and forces her to explain herself. When he hears her side of the story, he agrees to investigate, but he can’t let her leave.
Romy then escapes after being subtly threatened by Family members. Promising he is an ally and that he believes she is telling the truth, Luca hides her in his home, where the attraction and affection between them progresses into a loving relationship.
REVIEW
All things considered, The Woman at the Docks is relatively low angst, low drama, and low action—not in a bad way.
Romy’s animosity and snark toward Luca did not last long, but it was fun while it was present. Their relationship was very much instalove-y, without the over-the-top devotion and possessiveness that oftentimes accompanies the trope.
Romy showed she was softhearted (and strong) yet she retained her snarky humor, and Luca managed to be doting and affectionate while being a mafia underboss. Although the progression of their relationship was quick, the pair had chemistry. I enjoyed their slice-of-life moments more than I did the external plot.
The story with the trafficked women girls was horrific, and I wish we’d gotten more resolution e.g. what happened to the women and girls they didn’t find and the ones that were already sold? The conclusion was abrupt and convenient, the antagonist ambushing the main characters on a relatively random night.
Despite the heavy themes, at the novel’s core is a sweet love story. Maybe it won’t be the most memorable of the series, but their connection and loyalty to each other is solid.
OW/OM DRAMA none
CHEATING none
THIRD ACT BREAKUP no
ENDING HEA, although no epilogue/flash forward
POV dual / first person
SPICE LEVEL 4 / 5
RATING 3.5 / 5
SPOILERS
content warning:
Romy’s Missing Sister
June 22, 2020
Incredible, I don't know why I'm always surprised. I mean after every one of Jessica's books!
She's my unicorn author, all her books are just unbelievable good 🤷🏻♀️
The writing style, the story, the topic and the sheer real emotions are what makes her books so unique and beautiful.
This amazing mafia romance is a roller-coaster of action, excitement and raw emotions.
Luca the underboss, the older son of the Anthony Grassi, the boss of the New Jersey mafia family, grow up and learned according to the old law of the mafia. "Family over everything".
His family business is his life.
He is the future boss of the family and does everything to earn the title.
Romy is a good, honest and shaped by poverty and violence woman, that always had to fight for everything in her life. What she's not is weak. She's a badass woman who has her opinions and plans and let nobody stop her on her secret mission.
Not even a mafioso! 🤨
What happens when the two complete opposite worlds clash into each other?
Yes, an unbelievable exciting and unique love story ❤
Romy and Luca are so incredible authentic and amazing characters, you just have to love them.
And their chemistry is over the top hot 🔥 😍.
They connect like two magnets and are just what the other needs and is missing in their lives. And the best thing is, they don't even know that at the beginning. But from the very first time they met, they are intrigued with each other 🤭
Gah! I love their story 🥰😍
This book is an absolute page-turner. It's gripping, exciting, action packed and heartbreaking beautiful.
Definitely a must read ❤
And before you ask, I'll always recommend Jessica's books. They are my favorites 😍
She's my unicorn author, all her books are just unbelievable good 🤷🏻♀️
The writing style, the story, the topic and the sheer real emotions are what makes her books so unique and beautiful.
This amazing mafia romance is a roller-coaster of action, excitement and raw emotions.
Luca the underboss, the older son of the Anthony Grassi, the boss of the New Jersey mafia family, grow up and learned according to the old law of the mafia. "Family over everything".
His family business is his life.
He is the future boss of the family and does everything to earn the title.
Romy is a good, honest and shaped by poverty and violence woman, that always had to fight for everything in her life. What she's not is weak. She's a badass woman who has her opinions and plans and let nobody stop her on her secret mission.
Not even a mafioso! 🤨
What happens when the two complete opposite worlds clash into each other?
Yes, an unbelievable exciting and unique love story ❤
Romy and Luca are so incredible authentic and amazing characters, you just have to love them.
And their chemistry is over the top hot 🔥 😍.
They connect like two magnets and are just what the other needs and is missing in their lives. And the best thing is, they don't even know that at the beginning. But from the very first time they met, they are intrigued with each other 🤭
Gah! I love their story 🥰😍
This book is an absolute page-turner. It's gripping, exciting, action packed and heartbreaking beautiful.
Definitely a must read ❤
And before you ask, I'll always recommend Jessica's books. They are my favorites 😍
June 19, 2020
Holy Grassi family. I.NEED.MORE.
Finally after what feels like years of nagging, we've got our first taste of the forbidden fruit and I enjoyed the hell out of it.
Luca- A hardass mafia boss loyal and dedicated to his family, to their namesake. Ohhh he is absolutely a tasty treat. A suit wearing bossman with a sweet side I could not get enough of. Feared by many loved by few.
Romina- A sweet girl who chose the wrong place to scope out. She's strong and loyal despite her fears. I loved her hearty determination and the fact that she stood up for herself despite the odds against her. My kind of lady.
Their story definitely isn't your conventional romance however it's also not your stereotypical mafia romance either. Jessica has absolutely mastered the art of combining everything great in multiple tropes and making the most delicious combination. It's not as harsh as some mafia stories but it's definitely not all sweet either, the balance is fucking perfect without overwhelming your senses.
There is an obvious attraction straight up from the beginning and the chemistry was definitely palpable the minute they go close to eachother but it's not a sprint. Their connection blossomed as their journey progressed and the plot unraveled. The pace is perfect because we really get a good feel of who Romy and Luca are individually as well as together and whilst it wasn't smooth sailing, you got a feel from the beginning that they belonged together!. The focus was on them but I loved the familia vibe with the Grassi tribe. The secondary characters play big parts in Luca and Romy's story and of course added so much character to the journey. For better and worst.
It has a little suspense, a little humour, a lot of sass and a good dose of fiery chemistry. It's also has that forbidden shouldn't want to but can't help yourself vibe I love so freaking much. There's multidimensional characters and a story with so much emotion it will have you all up in your feels. Seamlessly written with a little of everything there honestly isn't anything to not love. I think Jessica did a great job of laying the foundations of this series within a already huge world of big characters, whilst still giving the Grassi family their own little slice of individuality. She managed to incorporate all the values you'd assume comes with such a powerful family without it being a total male dominated overload. Everything in the story has its place whilst she also set the course for future happenings and it had me all kinds of curious. Lucky... Matteo. Let's just say I want more like yesterday. Also... HOLY PLOT TWIST. I didn't, couldn't see that motherfucker coming. That is all I'll say.
It's always bitter sweet finishing a book you love. You loved it but the realisation that it's done and you have to wait what feels like for freaking ever for the next is sad. I'm sad now. But also .. what a fucking book. Steam queen did it again, its fire.
Finally after what feels like years of nagging, we've got our first taste of the forbidden fruit and I enjoyed the hell out of it.
Luca- A hardass mafia boss loyal and dedicated to his family, to their namesake. Ohhh he is absolutely a tasty treat. A suit wearing bossman with a sweet side I could not get enough of. Feared by many loved by few.
Romina- A sweet girl who chose the wrong place to scope out. She's strong and loyal despite her fears. I loved her hearty determination and the fact that she stood up for herself despite the odds against her. My kind of lady.
Their story definitely isn't your conventional romance however it's also not your stereotypical mafia romance either. Jessica has absolutely mastered the art of combining everything great in multiple tropes and making the most delicious combination. It's not as harsh as some mafia stories but it's definitely not all sweet either, the balance is fucking perfect without overwhelming your senses.
There is an obvious attraction straight up from the beginning and the chemistry was definitely palpable the minute they go close to eachother but it's not a sprint. Their connection blossomed as their journey progressed and the plot unraveled. The pace is perfect because we really get a good feel of who Romy and Luca are individually as well as together and whilst it wasn't smooth sailing, you got a feel from the beginning that they belonged together!. The focus was on them but I loved the familia vibe with the Grassi tribe. The secondary characters play big parts in Luca and Romy's story and of course added so much character to the journey. For better and worst.
It has a little suspense, a little humour, a lot of sass and a good dose of fiery chemistry. It's also has that forbidden shouldn't want to but can't help yourself vibe I love so freaking much. There's multidimensional characters and a story with so much emotion it will have you all up in your feels. Seamlessly written with a little of everything there honestly isn't anything to not love. I think Jessica did a great job of laying the foundations of this series within a already huge world of big characters, whilst still giving the Grassi family their own little slice of individuality. She managed to incorporate all the values you'd assume comes with such a powerful family without it being a total male dominated overload. Everything in the story has its place whilst she also set the course for future happenings and it had me all kinds of curious. Lucky... Matteo. Let's just say I want more like yesterday. Also... HOLY PLOT TWIST. I didn't, couldn't see that motherfucker coming. That is all I'll say.
It's always bitter sweet finishing a book you love. You loved it but the realisation that it's done and you have to wait what feels like for freaking ever for the next is sad. I'm sad now. But also .. what a fucking book. Steam queen did it again, its fire.
June 23, 2020
Welcome back to Navesink Bank where only the strong survive and you are wise to pick both your allies and your enemies very carefully. Very Carefully. When you are part of the local Mafia, family is everything and so is loyalty, duty and a finely honed honor. Luca knows his place as the son of the Mafia boss, he has been groomed to follow the code of the family. Romina is desperately searching for her sister and nothing or no one will stop her from saving her. When their paths collide, each will have lines to cross, trusts to build and an explosive chemistry that could backfire like a nuclear warhead or shower them with the wonder of fireworks in the sky.
THE WOMAN AT THE DOCKS is pure Jessica Gadziala! Suspense, intrigue, dark scenarios even the mafia won’t touch and a twisted plot that is barbed with the passion of sizzling romance, the horrors of evil and an ending that will rock your world.
Never let it be said that Ms. Gadziala doesn’t know how to write a tale that makes heroes out of the traditional bad guys or that she cannot portray the strength of a woman on a mission! All while creating a romance that pretty much sears the pages with its raw and primal intensity!
I received a complimentary ARC edition from Jessica Gadziala! This is my honest and voluntary review.
Series: Grassi Family - Book 1
Expected publication: June 25th 2020
Publisher: Jessica Gadziala
Genre: Romance
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
THE WOMAN AT THE DOCKS is pure Jessica Gadziala! Suspense, intrigue, dark scenarios even the mafia won’t touch and a twisted plot that is barbed with the passion of sizzling romance, the horrors of evil and an ending that will rock your world.
Never let it be said that Ms. Gadziala doesn’t know how to write a tale that makes heroes out of the traditional bad guys or that she cannot portray the strength of a woman on a mission! All while creating a romance that pretty much sears the pages with its raw and primal intensity!
I received a complimentary ARC edition from Jessica Gadziala! This is my honest and voluntary review.
Series: Grassi Family - Book 1
Expected publication: June 25th 2020
Publisher: Jessica Gadziala
Genre: Romance
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
July 5, 2020
Looking once again for a mafia book and one that don’t leave me rolling my eyes. This one wasn’t bad the hero was not a manho and she was not a virgin. But he was kind of a teddy bear.
I’ve tried to read this author before but they don’t really hold my attention much, I read thru this one. But my biggest complaint is that ending. Like I said before I’ve tried the author and one of the things I notice and I loved and wish more authors would do. She gives you long epilogues, like many years in the future. She didn’t with this one and I was so not having it. Hello it’s why I tried it. Well beside the mafia.
Oh and she wasn’t dumb. 🙌🏼
I’ve tried to read this author before but they don’t really hold my attention much, I read thru this one. But my biggest complaint is that ending. Like I said before I’ve tried the author and one of the things I notice and I loved and wish more authors would do. She gives you long epilogues, like many years in the future. She didn’t with this one and I was so not having it. Hello it’s why I tried it. Well beside the mafia.
Oh and she wasn’t dumb. 🙌🏼
June 26, 2020
The Grassi Family is on FIRE!!
I LOVED Jessica Gadziala's newest book! Luca is now almost entirely in charge of the Docks in Navesink Bank, with Antony making sure that this is exactly what Luca wants in life.
As Luca is trying to prove to his father that it is ok for La Famiglia to take a front row seat in Antony's life, Luca is suddenly notified that there is someone poking around the Docks. He has to take care of this problem, before his father decides Luca isn't being serious enough about his work, and that all he'll ever be is an Underboss. But nothing could have prepared Luca for who he finds sneaking around his docks.
Romina, or Romy for short, has been creeping around the Docks in Navesink Bank for almost 3 weeks, proving in part that Luca's men have gotten sloppy in maintaining the security that is a must in their line of work. Once they find her, Luca and his men must decide whether or not to believe the story Romy is spinning.
Luca and Romy are almost an instalove, but when Luca doesn't find what Romy is claiming is happening in his docks, he's so angry his confrontation is both terrifying and maddening for Romy.
Another 5 star beauty by Jessica Gadziala! I'm so excited to have these new complete standalones by JG, while still staying solidly connected to the Navesink Bank Universe! On top of that connection, Romy and Luca are damn F-I-N-E, sexy as he11, and their love for each other is palpable almost from chapter one! I'm so excited for the continuation of the Grassi family, and I can't wait to see who she picks for the next book!!
I LOVED Jessica Gadziala's newest book! Luca is now almost entirely in charge of the Docks in Navesink Bank, with Antony making sure that this is exactly what Luca wants in life.
As Luca is trying to prove to his father that it is ok for La Famiglia to take a front row seat in Antony's life, Luca is suddenly notified that there is someone poking around the Docks. He has to take care of this problem, before his father decides Luca isn't being serious enough about his work, and that all he'll ever be is an Underboss. But nothing could have prepared Luca for who he finds sneaking around his docks.
Romina, or Romy for short, has been creeping around the Docks in Navesink Bank for almost 3 weeks, proving in part that Luca's men have gotten sloppy in maintaining the security that is a must in their line of work. Once they find her, Luca and his men must decide whether or not to believe the story Romy is spinning.
Luca and Romy are almost an instalove, but when Luca doesn't find what Romy is claiming is happening in his docks, he's so angry his confrontation is both terrifying and maddening for Romy.
Another 5 star beauty by Jessica Gadziala! I'm so excited to have these new complete standalones by JG, while still staying solidly connected to the Navesink Bank Universe! On top of that connection, Romy and Luca are damn F-I-N-E, sexy as he11, and their love for each other is palpable almost from chapter one! I'm so excited for the continuation of the Grassi family, and I can't wait to see who she picks for the next book!!
February 4, 2025
It's actually kind of sweet mafia story. Nothing dark or extremely angsty. The end felt a little bit rushed and somewhat flat in emotion, I expected more to be honest.
June 21, 2020
This can be read as a stand alone.
This is hands down my new favorite Mafia book!!! You have Luca who runs the docks and will eventually take over for his father. And then you have Romy who may have a serious problem, but unlike most heroines she is strong and has no problem trying to help herself.
When Luca and Romy first meet it isn't under the best circumstances, but that quickly changes when Luca discovers the truth and seriousness of the situation happening at his own docks.
When I started this book I did not want to put it down. Laundry and dishes who? LOL. I have already started a reread because it was that good. Without giving anymore away I will say Jessica throws a curve at you that I never saw coming. I highly recommend this book. And with the ending I can't wait to see what happens next!
This is hands down my new favorite Mafia book!!! You have Luca who runs the docks and will eventually take over for his father. And then you have Romy who may have a serious problem, but unlike most heroines she is strong and has no problem trying to help herself.
When Luca and Romy first meet it isn't under the best circumstances, but that quickly changes when Luca discovers the truth and seriousness of the situation happening at his own docks.
When I started this book I did not want to put it down. Laundry and dishes who? LOL. I have already started a reread because it was that good. Without giving anymore away I will say Jessica throws a curve at you that I never saw coming. I highly recommend this book. And with the ending I can't wait to see what happens next!
January 9, 2022
#KUBinge
The Woman at the docks was so so good. I've been intrigued by Luca Grassi foreverrrr so reading his book was just amazing. I loved reading him and Romy and now can't wait to read Lucky's book! 4 stars! ~Ratula
The Woman at the docks was so so good. I've been intrigued by Luca Grassi foreverrrr so reading his book was just amazing. I loved reading him and Romy and now can't wait to read Lucky's book! 4 stars! ~Ratula
June 18, 2020
Gracias, gracias for finally giving us the Grassi's series! As a long time reader and fan of the authors I have been waiting years for this series. And to no surprise I loved it.
Luca Grassi, the oldest son of mobster Antony Grassi is primed to take over the shipping doc business when his father retires. He is very hands on and doesn't have much of a dating life. When his security team finds a woman in the middle of the night looking at storage containers, like she is on a mission to find a specific one, even though she is beautiful he will do what needs to be done to protect his family and business. Once questioned, Romina's reason was one they were not expecting. BTW – this is one of the many things I love about Jessica's books. The characters in Navesink Bank are not above the board but they do all have a set of moral codes they do not break or cross. And what was going on was not something they were ok with and would let slide.
I know its too soon and its wishful thinking but I for sure hope we get two more books in this series for sure. Younger brother Matteo and cousin Lucky's.
Luca Grassi, the oldest son of mobster Antony Grassi is primed to take over the shipping doc business when his father retires. He is very hands on and doesn't have much of a dating life. When his security team finds a woman in the middle of the night looking at storage containers, like she is on a mission to find a specific one, even though she is beautiful he will do what needs to be done to protect his family and business. Once questioned, Romina's reason was one they were not expecting. BTW – this is one of the many things I love about Jessica's books. The characters in Navesink Bank are not above the board but they do all have a set of moral codes they do not break or cross. And what was going on was not something they were ok with and would let slide.
I know its too soon and its wishful thinking but I for sure hope we get two more books in this series for sure. Younger brother Matteo and cousin Lucky's.
June 26, 2020
Amazing start of this series. Much anticipated book did not let you down.
The Grassi Family has made their presence known in Navesink Bank. Can’t wait to see what is in store next for this mob family.
The Grassi Family has made their presence known in Navesink Bank. Can’t wait to see what is in store next for this mob family.
June 21, 2020
I love the Grassi Family. I know this is a stand alone but there other books with the Grassi family in them and I'm so excited for this book. I love the story of Luca and Romy. The characters, as always, are so good. The book has a fabulous flow and the ending just caught me by surprise and blew me away. This book makes me hopeful that there will be more Grassi books to come.
June 24, 2020
I could not put this book down! Full disclosure in that there has yet to be a book that Jessica has written that I haven’t loved. But I gotta say, this is one I’ve been waiting a while for. The Grassi family has been on the outskirts in several of the Navasink Bank universe and now we start to really dive into that family and all the members.
I absolutely loved Luca and Romy. Romy is a strong, independent woman who can take care of herself. Luca has met his match in Romy. Question is can they both let their guard down enough to let the other one in?
I absolutely loved Luca and Romy. Romy is a strong, independent woman who can take care of herself. Luca has met his match in Romy. Question is can they both let their guard down enough to let the other one in?
June 19, 2020
Wow is all I can say.... this was such a good story. I loved Luca and Romy. They have amazing chemistry. Luca is a mob boss, and Romy is looking for her sister in his docks. This leads to action, romance, and some seriously sexy moments. This story was decoys hit for me. I will be rereading it again in the very near future!
June 23, 2020
Well, of course it's fantastic. I wouldn't expect anything less from our girl Jessica. This one had a great twist. I was definitely shocked when I found out who that guy was. Looking forward to the rest of this series. I might be just a little in love with Lucky and Lorenzo
July 2, 2020
Interesting twist
Good read. Be aware kinda instant attraction and love. Big plot twist that I didn’t see coming. Strong characters for sure.
Good read. Be aware kinda instant attraction and love. Big plot twist that I didn’t see coming. Strong characters for sure.
June 26, 2020
What an epic start to a new series by JG!
*queue Sopranos theme song*
For fans of the Navesink Bank Universe that Jessica has so artfully woven into our hearts, few people have gotten a glimpse of The Grassi Family, and not begged for more. The day has arrived that we get to dive deeper than a man in cement shoes....and it really couldn’t be better.
This book is a stand-alone but the main character has been introduced previously in other books with Jessica’s collection of works.
Oh Luca. You beautiful, dark, dangerous, Italian man in a suit that I bet smells like a million dollars...it’s so good to get to live inside your mind and find a woman to rock your routine.
Next in line to take over as family boss, Luca Grassi is someone you do not want to mess with. Fair, but firm, he presents a modern take on the gangsters we all think of when we hear the words “underboss” or “mob”. Times change and for the mob to survive, they need to change along with them.
Luca is equal parts “family” tradition and family man. Best choice to kick off this new series.
Hello Romy! Make way for a bundle of Venezuelan surprise about to rock Luca’s world. Searching for something important, while firmly trespassing on mob property, Romy’s less than professional skills of course get her caught.
Coming from a not-so-great childhood into a mundane adulthood, I don’t think Romy was entirely prepared for everything that would happen once she was discovered down at the docks...the rest they say is history.
This history just happens to include kidnapping, violence, steamy scenes and shocks around each corner. You know, another day in the life of Navesink Bank.
So, it wouldn’t be a JG book without leaving you wanting more. More of Lucky, more of Matteo, more of what’s going on in that trunk, and more of tidy lawyers in expensive suits....basically Jessica can never retire at this rate.
Grab a cold glass of Limoncello and dive into the family business, you won’t regret it.
This story was a perfect combination, like spaghetti and meatballs.
*queue Sopranos theme song*
For fans of the Navesink Bank Universe that Jessica has so artfully woven into our hearts, few people have gotten a glimpse of The Grassi Family, and not begged for more. The day has arrived that we get to dive deeper than a man in cement shoes....and it really couldn’t be better.
This book is a stand-alone but the main character has been introduced previously in other books with Jessica’s collection of works.
Oh Luca. You beautiful, dark, dangerous, Italian man in a suit that I bet smells like a million dollars...it’s so good to get to live inside your mind and find a woman to rock your routine.
Next in line to take over as family boss, Luca Grassi is someone you do not want to mess with. Fair, but firm, he presents a modern take on the gangsters we all think of when we hear the words “underboss” or “mob”. Times change and for the mob to survive, they need to change along with them.
Luca is equal parts “family” tradition and family man. Best choice to kick off this new series.
Hello Romy! Make way for a bundle of Venezuelan surprise about to rock Luca’s world. Searching for something important, while firmly trespassing on mob property, Romy’s less than professional skills of course get her caught.
Coming from a not-so-great childhood into a mundane adulthood, I don’t think Romy was entirely prepared for everything that would happen once she was discovered down at the docks...the rest they say is history.
This history just happens to include kidnapping, violence, steamy scenes and shocks around each corner. You know, another day in the life of Navesink Bank.
So, it wouldn’t be a JG book without leaving you wanting more. More of Lucky, more of Matteo, more of what’s going on in that trunk, and more of tidy lawyers in expensive suits....basically Jessica can never retire at this rate.
Grab a cold glass of Limoncello and dive into the family business, you won’t regret it.
This story was a perfect combination, like spaghetti and meatballs.
July 5, 2020
Famiglia!
Romy and Luca's story is so refreshing and fills the soul with love yet heartbreaking in other ways.
The story is a journey that will have you laughing, crying, scared and every other emotion imaginable.
The characters are easy to love and the development is great. So many possibilities for future stories and I can't wait!
Romy and Luca's story is so refreshing and fills the soul with love yet heartbreaking in other ways.
The story is a journey that will have you laughing, crying, scared and every other emotion imaginable.
The characters are easy to love and the development is great. So many possibilities for future stories and I can't wait!
August 9, 2020
Barely 3 stars. I've read and enjoyed a lot of JG's books, and this one felt like about 6 old ones cobbled together to make one very predictable new one. And I enjoyed the originals far more than the put-together one.
June 27, 2020
If it was a love story took place at a small town with pink houses and happy people, I would be happy to give four stars. But FYI, it was supposed to be a dark mafia (love) story. I could not believe the pu..whipped mafia men, and all the endearments they used like 'sweetheart, darling..' (ewww). The bad-ass heroine talking back to big mafia bosses, playing poker with them,..etc. was annoying, and out of a comic book. The concept of the background story was very dark with human-trafficking, abuse, violence, and killing a relative. It sould have been written with respect, at least to the people who suffered such tragedy. Instead, to my dissapointment, all the plot written like a soulles superficial commercial without any dept feeling. Also, building of the characters, all the plot and story was absurd with zero connection in themselves, and with the reality of such a dark situation. There were lots of empty gaps in the storyline, like how did the sister became a lady-boss, and who send the heroine to docks, etc. The hero was a perfect picture of a loving boyfriend, if he had been a hallmark character, but for a mafia underboss with a dark past?? A big no, for the mismatching characters, story, and my dissapointment.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 18, 2021
3.5. Stars
This gave me a bit of a deja-read. If you’ve read The woman in the trunk maybe you can agree or disagree.
There weren’t any obvious similarities necessarily but I got the same vibe and it felt like the bones/foundation of it was the same but with different characters and plot.
That being said, it’s not a bad thing at all. I loved that book and while this one just didn’t have the same energy I enjoyed reading it - A LOT. Thank God Matteo’s book is coming out soon because I want more.
Luca and Romi were perfect for each other and I could feel their connection even if it was very insta lovey. Nothing wrong with that.
The plot was good as well but it didn’t blow me away.
As per usual the side character game was strong!
This gave me a bit of a deja-read. If you’ve read The woman in the trunk maybe you can agree or disagree.
There weren’t any obvious similarities necessarily but I got the same vibe and it felt like the bones/foundation of it was the same but with different characters and plot.
That being said, it’s not a bad thing at all. I loved that book and while this one just didn’t have the same energy I enjoyed reading it - A LOT. Thank God Matteo’s book is coming out soon because I want more.
Luca and Romi were perfect for each other and I could feel their connection even if it was very insta lovey. Nothing wrong with that.
The plot was good as well but it didn’t blow me away.
As per usual the side character game was strong!
November 12, 2021
Swoon!
I have read this book at least four times already and I fall in love with the characters again, every time. Honestly, there is nothing I wouldn’t read by Jessica Gadziala. This is our Navesink Bank Mafia world and it’s amazing! We get snippets of our beloved Navesink Bank characters but also have new and interesting, I can’t wait to read their stories, characters. I’m in love with Luca and Romy. I will say the same about everything Jessica writes though!
I have read this book at least four times already and I fall in love with the characters again, every time. Honestly, there is nothing I wouldn’t read by Jessica Gadziala. This is our Navesink Bank Mafia world and it’s amazing! We get snippets of our beloved Navesink Bank characters but also have new and interesting, I can’t wait to read their stories, characters. I’m in love with Luca and Romy. I will say the same about everything Jessica writes though!
June 27, 2020
Lovee!!
Jessica does it again. She is on a streak of releasing the books I was waiting for most. I love it.
I LOVE that this story goes in places to don’t expect! It’s nice to not know what’s gonna happen before it does. I really admire Romy’s loyalty. Great book. 🧡
Jessica does it again. She is on a streak of releasing the books I was waiting for most. I love it.
I LOVE that this story goes in places to don’t expect! It’s nice to not know what’s gonna happen before it does. I really admire Romy’s loyalty. Great book. 🧡
January 18, 2025
4.25 stars
A tough mafia boss with a strong moral code and who is weak for his woman? Now THAT makes me weak. 😍 And I love how it’s explained by strong family values, which tells me the Grassi series will be full of smitten mafia men. Obviously the realism is low, but more of this please!
Romy is sneaking around the docks, looking for her missing younger sister. Luca, the capo who controls the docks, is not amused by the trespassing but is plenty intrigued by the beautiful woman.
I really liked the connection between the Romy and Luca. They had similar roles/experiences in their respective families and common values, despite the very different lives they led. I could buy that they fit together.
Some points off because the story dealt with dark themes (human trafficking), and it’s pretty hard to wrap that up with a neat bow. The storytelling was great though — well-paced, got intense at the right times, and the ending for the couple was sweet and satisfying.
A tough mafia boss with a strong moral code and who is weak for his woman? Now THAT makes me weak. 😍 And I love how it’s explained by strong family values, which tells me the Grassi series will be full of smitten mafia men. Obviously the realism is low, but more of this please!
Romy is sneaking around the docks, looking for her missing younger sister. Luca, the capo who controls the docks, is not amused by the trespassing but is plenty intrigued by the beautiful woman.
I really liked the connection between the Romy and Luca. They had similar roles/experiences in their respective families and common values, despite the very different lives they led. I could buy that they fit together.
Some points off because the story dealt with dark themes (human trafficking), and it’s pretty hard to wrap that up with a neat bow. The storytelling was great though — well-paced, got intense at the right times, and the ending for the couple was sweet and satisfying.
June 28, 2020
This book ya'll! THIS BOOK! (insert image of me slow 👏 clapping here) It seems like we've been waiting forever for this series to begin but let me tell you it was SO worth the wait! Luca & Romina (Romy) were absolute 🔥🔥🔥... The perfect blend of all the alpha mafia goodness, insta lust/love, strong AF determined female & all the twists and turns.... I could NOT put this book down! A brand new part of Navesink Bank to fall in love with 🖤
When Romy is caught sneaking around the docks by The Grassi's Luca expects to just warn her/scare her away and be done with it.... but Romy is determined to find what she's looking for. And the "something" she is looking for... well let's just say the Grassi's are completely shocked by what is found/uncovered on their docks. The push & pull between not only these two but Romy & the Grassi family (seriously, your going to fall in love with all these new characters ) throw in one heck of a plot twist that'll have you white knuckling your kindle for sure... this book had it ALL! && I cannot wait for more from the Grassi Family Series. 💕
When Romy is caught sneaking around the docks by The Grassi's Luca expects to just warn her/scare her away and be done with it.... but Romy is determined to find what she's looking for. And the "something" she is looking for... well let's just say the Grassi's are completely shocked by what is found/uncovered on their docks. The push & pull between not only these two but Romy & the Grassi family (seriously, your going to fall in love with all these new characters ) throw in one heck of a plot twist that'll have you white knuckling your kindle for sure... this book had it ALL! && I cannot wait for more from the Grassi Family Series. 💕
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