What do you think?
Rate this book
I play the tough act well.
If you piss me off, I’ll kill you.
If you mess with me, I’ll kill you.
And if you hurt those I care about, you guessed it, I’ll kill you.
But anytime a familiar creak sounds through my ears, I freeze like a statue. I didn’t learn to run until it was too late.
I had already been hurt.
The same can be said for Claudia Sanchez. She walked into my life in a prison jumpsuit with knotted hair and hurt-filled eyes, because just like me, the ghosts of her past were still haunting her.
They torment her day in and day out, their screams so loud, I had no choice but to intervene.
My ma would have rolled in her grave if I had ignored the silent pleas beaming out of Claudia. When she was alive, I never wanted to disappoint her, so I won’t in her death either. I’ll help Claudia, and she won’t owe me a dime for it because helping her may very well be the only way to fix me.
Rocco is book eight in The Italian Cartel Series by USA Today Bestselling Author Shandi Boyes. Although this tells the entirety of Rocco’s story, it is not recommended to be read until you’ve read previous books in the series. It has dark elements and multiple forms of abuse that may trigger some readers. Caution is advised.
*
For TWs please visit the author's website.
If you piss me off, I’ll kill you.
If you mess with me, I’ll kill you.
And if you hurt those I care about, you guessed it, I’ll kill you.
But anytime a familiar creak sounds through my ears, I freeze like a statue. I didn’t learn to run until it was too late.
I had already been hurt.
The same can be said for Claudia Sanchez. She walked into my life in a prison jumpsuit with knotted hair and hurt-filled eyes, because just like me, the ghosts of her past were still haunting her.
They torment her day in and day out, their screams so loud, I had no choice but to intervene.
My ma would have rolled in her grave if I had ignored the silent pleas beaming out of Claudia. When she was alive, I never wanted to disappoint her, so I won’t in her death either. I’ll help Claudia, and she won’t owe me a dime for it because helping her may very well be the only way to fix me.
Rocco is book eight in The Italian Cartel Series by USA Today Bestselling Author Shandi Boyes. Although this tells the entirety of Rocco’s story, it is not recommended to be read until you’ve read previous books in the series. It has dark elements and multiple forms of abuse that may trigger some readers. Caution is advised.
*
For TWs please visit the author's website.
310 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 12, 2021
93 people are currently reading
640 people want to read
About the author
Shandi Boyes
96 books2,200 followersShandi Boyes is a USA Today Bestselling Author who was an avid reader for many years before she discovered the love of writing in February 2016. Her first penned novel 'Perception of Life’ is a new adult rockstar romance that will have you sitting on the edge of your seat until the very last word.
In September 2016, her focus shifted to hot alpha men in steamy contemporary reads that sizzle off the pages. Shandi’s novel ‘Enigma of Life’ is an award-winning story on an FBI agent and the subject she was assigned to investigate. Her men are swoon-worthy, devoted, and alpha; and her heroines are strong-willed, determined, and loveable. You should start her stories first thing in the morning, or you may not sleep.
You will laugh and you will cry, but Shandi's characters will stay with you for a lifetime!
Join my newsletter: subscribepage.com/authorshandi
SERIES ORDER:
Perception of Life (Noah and Emily #1)
Reality of Life (conclusion of Noah's story #2)
Fight of Life (Jacob's story - standalone #3)
Player of Life (Nick & Jenny - standalone #4)
Beats of Life (Slater's story - standalone #5)
Enigma:
Enigma of Life (Isaac #1) - ** FREE **
Unraveling an Enigma (Isaac #2)
Enigma: The Mystery Unmasked (Isaac #3)
Enigma: The Final Chapter (conclusion of Isaac's story #4)
Beneath the Secrets (Hugo #1)
Beneath the Sheets (Hugo #2)
Spy Thy Neighbor (Hunter's Story)
The Opposite Effect
I Married a Mob Boss
Second Shot
Bound:
Chains
Links
Bound
Restrained
Russian Mob Chronicles:
Nikolai: A Mafia Prince Romance
Nikolai: Taking Back What's Mine
Nikolai: What's Left of Me
You will laugh and you will cry, but my characters will stay with you forever!
I love writing and reading. They are both my passion. My genre is generally set to new adult and contemporary, with a few twists thrown in.
Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/Author-Shand...
Amazon Author Page:
http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B01D8C13WU
Enjoy reading!
In September 2016, her focus shifted to hot alpha men in steamy contemporary reads that sizzle off the pages. Shandi’s novel ‘Enigma of Life’ is an award-winning story on an FBI agent and the subject she was assigned to investigate. Her men are swoon-worthy, devoted, and alpha; and her heroines are strong-willed, determined, and loveable. You should start her stories first thing in the morning, or you may not sleep.
You will laugh and you will cry, but Shandi's characters will stay with you for a lifetime!
Join my newsletter: subscribepage.com/authorshandi
SERIES ORDER:
Perception of Life (Noah and Emily #1)
Reality of Life (conclusion of Noah's story #2)
Fight of Life (Jacob's story - standalone #3)
Player of Life (Nick & Jenny - standalone #4)
Beats of Life (Slater's story - standalone #5)
Enigma:
Enigma of Life (Isaac #1) - ** FREE **
Unraveling an Enigma (Isaac #2)
Enigma: The Mystery Unmasked (Isaac #3)
Enigma: The Final Chapter (conclusion of Isaac's story #4)
Beneath the Secrets (Hugo #1)
Beneath the Sheets (Hugo #2)
Spy Thy Neighbor (Hunter's Story)
The Opposite Effect
I Married a Mob Boss
Second Shot
Bound:
Chains
Links
Bound
Restrained
Russian Mob Chronicles:
Nikolai: A Mafia Prince Romance
Nikolai: Taking Back What's Mine
Nikolai: What's Left of Me
You will laugh and you will cry, but my characters will stay with you forever!
I love writing and reading. They are both my passion. My genre is generally set to new adult and contemporary, with a few twists thrown in.
Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/Author-Shand...
Amazon Author Page:
http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B01D8C13WU
Enjoy reading!
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
April 27, 2021
This changes my view on Rocco, as of now. Rocco was not only Dimitri's best friend but also his right hand man so when he is tasked with taking Roxanne to see a friend, a friend in a high security prison you know something's isn't right, that's when Rocco see's Claudia beaten down, afraid of her own shadow, as Rocco watches and learns he vows to do everything he can to make her life better. Claudia didn't know that the man she met that day would become her champion. Names and places come up from other books it weaves a tapestry of all the intrigue, murder and intense drama that these people live with. Rocco definitely stepped out of his comfort zone and it bought out secrets long hidden, Claudia had been handed the worst cards but she still battled on, so Rocco and Claudia knew they wouldn't have long but they had now, to gain you have to lose. It absolutely knocked me over, how many times can you scream and shout at a book, a lot I can tell you, for me it was the best. I voluntarily reviewed this book
August 8, 2021
4.3 stars
I always love how this author manages to add more details and insight into previous storylines. It feels like an Ocean's Eleven movie watching how everything happens. I'm glad Rocco and Claudia got their HEA in a world that a lot of messed up scrap happens.
I always love how this author manages to add more details and insight into previous storylines. It feels like an Ocean's Eleven movie watching how everything happens. I'm glad Rocco and Claudia got their HEA in a world that a lot of messed up scrap happens.
December 8, 2025
Only damaged people can fix damaged people because only we know what the other has been through.
Plagued by PTSD and night terrors for years after th sodomy and abuse of his own father, Rocco Shay is determined to never expose that secret to the world. At only eight years old his father did the unthinkable to him, and it left his spiraling and taking shelter at his only friend Dimitri's house night after night. With a younger sister, Findlay and his mother at home taking on his wrath, he never turned truly murderous until the discovery of his sisters sexual abuse. Finding out how he hurt her, he shot and killed his father in front of his mother and sibling, landing himself behind bars for seven years. Already neck deep into the Italian Cartel, he's turned to cocaine the last twelve years to help ease the nightmares and shame he carries. Meanwhile, Claudia Sanchez is serving time locked behind a notorious maximum security prison where corruption runs much deepen then even the inmates. Convicted of killing her abusive husband Juan, she lost her son JJ (Dillion) to Ma, the ringleader of the Mexican Vartle. With a sick facinationa and obsession with her sons, it boreded I to sexuality as she saw them much deeper then her own kin. When her husband was killed, she took on the reigns and adapted her way into the baby farming business, slowly amassing herself and empire of sons she's stolen from other young mothers. Believing JJ in Juan reincartned, she's spent the past eight months keeping that bag at her side. Denied visitation and a spot in the nursery program, Claudia feels hopeless she'll ever be able to hold her son in her arms even once. Forced to deliver in the warden's office, he cut the umbilical cord and swiftly passed her child along without a single glance at her.
“You also rub your hands together anytime you’re scheming, bite your lip when you’re struggling to pick between a sweet or savory snack, and when you’re showing off in front of the ladies, your punishment of choice is laying the boot into your opponent.”
“Why are you begging me, Mama?” Rocco asks before he flicks his tongue against the vehement rise of my clit. “You have all the control. If you want to come, come. If you don’t, lay back and let me enjoy the delicious taste of your cunt.”
“Not a big deal?” Smith asks, his voice a roar. “I guess dragging her out of bed at three in the morning to cash in your raincheck isn’t that big of a deal.” Shit. I’m certain things can’t get worse until he adds, “But demanding her to do it in front of your guests who couldn’t take the hint it was time to leave was. You told her to do as asked, or you were through helping her. That proving you’re not fucked in the head was more important than helping her get her son back. It took Clover intervening to get you to stop, Rocco. Fucking Clover!
“I’m going to fuck you in the shower, in the kitchen, and in the hot tub while George watches in disgust. Then I’m going to do it all again, but the second time, I’m going to fuck your virginal ass, and you will love it so much, you’ll beg for me to do it again and again and again.”
Meeting for the first time while Roxanne was in the hospital recovering from being ran over twice by a jealous ex, she met Claudia who had both arms shattered and a heavily pregnant belly. Becoming close from that moment, she's made a pact to get her overturned from her conviction and help her regain custody of her son. When Rocco first laid eyes on her, he was drawn to the broken shadows in her eyes and the fierceness to get her child back into her grasp. Falling deeper for her, he would help aid in her escape by swapping her with Megan Shroud, a woman so mentally shattered by a use she held the mentality of a child now. With freedom on her fingertips, it was a whirlwind of a week between the two of sexual tension and ectasy. Knowing deep down this will have to end to get her son back, it broke both of them when the plan was laid to paper and then stone. With plans to hunt her down as the distraction was she was carrying his baby. Shooting at her as she fled in the car, she boarded a plane by a fellow cartel president, securing herself and Dillion a first taste of freedom. Unable to leave her behind, he is forced to do a thirty day rehab from the cocaine before Dimitri offers her up to Rocco permanently. Classified as the heir of the of the Mexican Cartel, it out immunity onto Dillion as well as his mother. Now, three and a half years later they are married and moving closer to their second baby on the way. Clean on the habit and removing the guilt and shames he's carried for years, Rocco is willing to kill anybody to stand between him and his family.
“Don’t tempt me, Mama.” He shuffles closer to me like he didn’t just reject me. “I don’t give a fuck about Clover and Marshall. I’ll send them to hell in an instant if they see any part of you, you don’t want them to see, but Smith… for some fucked-up reason, I’m kinda fond of him.”
Plagued by PTSD and night terrors for years after th sodomy and abuse of his own father, Rocco Shay is determined to never expose that secret to the world. At only eight years old his father did the unthinkable to him, and it left his spiraling and taking shelter at his only friend Dimitri's house night after night. With a younger sister, Findlay and his mother at home taking on his wrath, he never turned truly murderous until the discovery of his sisters sexual abuse. Finding out how he hurt her, he shot and killed his father in front of his mother and sibling, landing himself behind bars for seven years. Already neck deep into the Italian Cartel, he's turned to cocaine the last twelve years to help ease the nightmares and shame he carries. Meanwhile, Claudia Sanchez is serving time locked behind a notorious maximum security prison where corruption runs much deepen then even the inmates. Convicted of killing her abusive husband Juan, she lost her son JJ (Dillion) to Ma, the ringleader of the Mexican Vartle. With a sick facinationa and obsession with her sons, it boreded I to sexuality as she saw them much deeper then her own kin. When her husband was killed, she took on the reigns and adapted her way into the baby farming business, slowly amassing herself and empire of sons she's stolen from other young mothers. Believing JJ in Juan reincartned, she's spent the past eight months keeping that bag at her side. Denied visitation and a spot in the nursery program, Claudia feels hopeless she'll ever be able to hold her son in her arms even once. Forced to deliver in the warden's office, he cut the umbilical cord and swiftly passed her child along without a single glance at her.
“You also rub your hands together anytime you’re scheming, bite your lip when you’re struggling to pick between a sweet or savory snack, and when you’re showing off in front of the ladies, your punishment of choice is laying the boot into your opponent.”
“Why are you begging me, Mama?” Rocco asks before he flicks his tongue against the vehement rise of my clit. “You have all the control. If you want to come, come. If you don’t, lay back and let me enjoy the delicious taste of your cunt.”
“Not a big deal?” Smith asks, his voice a roar. “I guess dragging her out of bed at three in the morning to cash in your raincheck isn’t that big of a deal.” Shit. I’m certain things can’t get worse until he adds, “But demanding her to do it in front of your guests who couldn’t take the hint it was time to leave was. You told her to do as asked, or you were through helping her. That proving you’re not fucked in the head was more important than helping her get her son back. It took Clover intervening to get you to stop, Rocco. Fucking Clover!
“I’m going to fuck you in the shower, in the kitchen, and in the hot tub while George watches in disgust. Then I’m going to do it all again, but the second time, I’m going to fuck your virginal ass, and you will love it so much, you’ll beg for me to do it again and again and again.”
Meeting for the first time while Roxanne was in the hospital recovering from being ran over twice by a jealous ex, she met Claudia who had both arms shattered and a heavily pregnant belly. Becoming close from that moment, she's made a pact to get her overturned from her conviction and help her regain custody of her son. When Rocco first laid eyes on her, he was drawn to the broken shadows in her eyes and the fierceness to get her child back into her grasp. Falling deeper for her, he would help aid in her escape by swapping her with Megan Shroud, a woman so mentally shattered by a use she held the mentality of a child now. With freedom on her fingertips, it was a whirlwind of a week between the two of sexual tension and ectasy. Knowing deep down this will have to end to get her son back, it broke both of them when the plan was laid to paper and then stone. With plans to hunt her down as the distraction was she was carrying his baby. Shooting at her as she fled in the car, she boarded a plane by a fellow cartel president, securing herself and Dillion a first taste of freedom. Unable to leave her behind, he is forced to do a thirty day rehab from the cocaine before Dimitri offers her up to Rocco permanently. Classified as the heir of the of the Mexican Cartel, it out immunity onto Dillion as well as his mother. Now, three and a half years later they are married and moving closer to their second baby on the way. Clean on the habit and removing the guilt and shames he's carried for years, Rocco is willing to kill anybody to stand between him and his family.
“Don’t tempt me, Mama.” He shuffles closer to me like he didn’t just reject me. “I don’t give a fuck about Clover and Marshall. I’ll send them to hell in an instant if they see any part of you, you don’t want them to see, but Smith… for some fucked-up reason, I’m kinda fond of him.”
May 19, 2021
Knowing the author had never disappointed you, have you ever still anticipated a book’s release so much that you’re worried it will let you down? Well, that was me with Rocco. From the moment he was introduced, I wanted to know more, and the anticipation grew with each book leading up to his. I knew from the beginning he would be a favorite, and he was definitely worth the wait!!! As usual with a “Shandi book,” as they are all interconnected, Rocco brings us updates on characters we have come to love, opens our eyes a little more on occurrences from previous books, and gives us a little more insight to fuel our anticipation for books to come. Not to mention, how he will make you love “a killer” more than you could ever imagine you would.
To date, I have yet to come across an author that comes close to Shandi Boyes’s writing ability. If you are not familiar with her work, you are truly missing out. Her writing is phenomenal. You will find yourself feeling as if you are right there, standing beside each character, mentally watching it play out in front of you and feeling every emotion right along with them. She has kept me captivated from the beginning of every book, kept me hanging on to every word throughout, and made me not want it to end. Whether it’s a rockstar, athlete, mafia prince, or etc., by the end of their story you will fall in love with each and every one. Her books bring so much, all while she has been releasing a book a month...unheard of.
Sometimes a book and/or series is so good that you leave a review to let other readers know how good it is, or to support the author; but, I must admit, this one is being left because, selfishly, I’m hoping it will encourage the author to keep writing. As I am addicted to her work (and the characters who choose to talk to her).
Note: If you have not read the previous books in this series, start at the beginning or you will not get the full effect of this book.
To date, I have yet to come across an author that comes close to Shandi Boyes’s writing ability. If you are not familiar with her work, you are truly missing out. Her writing is phenomenal. You will find yourself feeling as if you are right there, standing beside each character, mentally watching it play out in front of you and feeling every emotion right along with them. She has kept me captivated from the beginning of every book, kept me hanging on to every word throughout, and made me not want it to end. Whether it’s a rockstar, athlete, mafia prince, or etc., by the end of their story you will fall in love with each and every one. Her books bring so much, all while she has been releasing a book a month...unheard of.
Sometimes a book and/or series is so good that you leave a review to let other readers know how good it is, or to support the author; but, I must admit, this one is being left because, selfishly, I’m hoping it will encourage the author to keep writing. As I am addicted to her work (and the characters who choose to talk to her).
Note: If you have not read the previous books in this series, start at the beginning or you will not get the full effect of this book.
June 14, 2021
Rocco.....finally!
Rocco is the 8th installment in The Italian Cartel Series, an absolutely fantastic emotional ride in true Boye's style. I would suggest to those who didn't, to start with book #1 in the series, for a better comprehension of the background plot and the characters development.
If you read all the books so far, you already know Rocco as Dimitri's best friend and right hand man, an experienced and ruthless killer with a soft spot and fierce protectiveness towards abused women. And that's exactly how Rocco and Claudia find themselves entwined with each other: the recognition of abuse, something both are familiar with. Rocco was enigmatic, always portrayed as someone secretive but observant, so it's no wonder that he's the key to uncover some of the answers to the questions raised in their world of machinations, chaos, mayhem and destruction.
This is a story of self-discovery, determination and superation for Claudia and a sort of redemption fo Rocco, a sinuous, but resilient journey for both of them where, even fighting with all their might, the chances of winning are minimal and never unscathed.
Lots of tension and strenuous circumstances and great 🔥🔥🔥🔥 moments make for a secure commitment to the protagonists and the intrigue itself not forgetting how the author ingeniously puts together a kaleidoscopic narrative intertwinning past participants and their own stories with present events. And that epilogue and bonus......soooo goood!
A great, great read!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Rocco is the 8th installment in The Italian Cartel Series, an absolutely fantastic emotional ride in true Boye's style. I would suggest to those who didn't, to start with book #1 in the series, for a better comprehension of the background plot and the characters development.
If you read all the books so far, you already know Rocco as Dimitri's best friend and right hand man, an experienced and ruthless killer with a soft spot and fierce protectiveness towards abused women. And that's exactly how Rocco and Claudia find themselves entwined with each other: the recognition of abuse, something both are familiar with. Rocco was enigmatic, always portrayed as someone secretive but observant, so it's no wonder that he's the key to uncover some of the answers to the questions raised in their world of machinations, chaos, mayhem and destruction.
This is a story of self-discovery, determination and superation for Claudia and a sort of redemption fo Rocco, a sinuous, but resilient journey for both of them where, even fighting with all their might, the chances of winning are minimal and never unscathed.
Lots of tension and strenuous circumstances and great 🔥🔥🔥🔥 moments make for a secure commitment to the protagonists and the intrigue itself not forgetting how the author ingeniously puts together a kaleidoscopic narrative intertwinning past participants and their own stories with present events. And that epilogue and bonus......soooo goood!
A great, great read!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 2, 2021
Rocco
This story explains a lot!! Rocco is a killer with no remorse but he’s so protective of the opposite sex. Rocco is as hard as nails, and now I understand why. But also jokes a lot of the time. It’s a coping mechanism. He’s a tortured soul as you will.
Abuse a little word with such a terrible meaning. Those who have lived through it, totally understand what I mean.
It never goes away and for Rocco this is the case.
Rocco is task with looking after Roxanne while she visits her friend in prison. It’s then that Rocco sees Claudia a woman who will define the side of this man he’s hidden so well from not only Dimitri but everyone. Someone he can totally connect with. Oh this story is so powerful and moving and I really would say to read the previous books leading up to this one. It’s important to get the whole story prior to this one!!!
There’s a bonus Epilogue and a Second one which totally completes this Story. Leaving me sighing and a smile on my face.
OMG!!! I kind of have a new crush. Rocco is H.O.T. 🔥🔥🔥🔥 in bed, the kitchen basically anywhere. I love a saucy read and this is exactly that.
If this book got any hotter I’d burn. This is a Standalone!!!
Another outstanding story by Shandi
A Definite Must Read!!!!!
⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ +
I’m eagerly awaiting for the next book in this Series!!!!
This story explains a lot!! Rocco is a killer with no remorse but he’s so protective of the opposite sex. Rocco is as hard as nails, and now I understand why. But also jokes a lot of the time. It’s a coping mechanism. He’s a tortured soul as you will.
Abuse a little word with such a terrible meaning. Those who have lived through it, totally understand what I mean.
It never goes away and for Rocco this is the case.
Rocco is task with looking after Roxanne while she visits her friend in prison. It’s then that Rocco sees Claudia a woman who will define the side of this man he’s hidden so well from not only Dimitri but everyone. Someone he can totally connect with. Oh this story is so powerful and moving and I really would say to read the previous books leading up to this one. It’s important to get the whole story prior to this one!!!
There’s a bonus Epilogue and a Second one which totally completes this Story. Leaving me sighing and a smile on my face.
OMG!!! I kind of have a new crush. Rocco is H.O.T. 🔥🔥🔥🔥 in bed, the kitchen basically anywhere. I love a saucy read and this is exactly that.
If this book got any hotter I’d burn. This is a Standalone!!!
Another outstanding story by Shandi
A Definite Must Read!!!!!
⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ +
I’m eagerly awaiting for the next book in this Series!!!!
June 17, 2021
Insanely Delicious and Absolutely Fabulous!!!
Rocco is the eighth book in The Italian Cartel series and once again Shandi Boyes has delivered for this series. This book is about Claudia Sanchez and Rocco Shay and they are quite enthralling. The book is well written, has a story-line filled with drama, danger, intrigue, suspense, romance and of course an amazingly hot passionate connection. Rocco has been in previous books in the series as he is the best friend since childhood and right hand man to Dimitri. But in this book we get to see him peeled back like the sweetest and most deadly onion, one layer at a time. Claudia is a woman who has been abused but is strong and has survived. She is also a mother and is willing to go through anything and do anything to ensure that her son is safe and they are reunited. When Rocco first sees Claudia he is drawn to her and all of his protective instincts kick in to high gear. All I can say is watch out as this is a book which will keep you reading early into the morning as you just can't put it down.
I received a copy of this book and am leaving my honest review. My opinions are all my own.
Rocco is the eighth book in The Italian Cartel series and once again Shandi Boyes has delivered for this series. This book is about Claudia Sanchez and Rocco Shay and they are quite enthralling. The book is well written, has a story-line filled with drama, danger, intrigue, suspense, romance and of course an amazingly hot passionate connection. Rocco has been in previous books in the series as he is the best friend since childhood and right hand man to Dimitri. But in this book we get to see him peeled back like the sweetest and most deadly onion, one layer at a time. Claudia is a woman who has been abused but is strong and has survived. She is also a mother and is willing to go through anything and do anything to ensure that her son is safe and they are reunited. When Rocco first sees Claudia he is drawn to her and all of his protective instincts kick in to high gear. All I can say is watch out as this is a book which will keep you reading early into the morning as you just can't put it down.
I received a copy of this book and am leaving my honest review. My opinions are all my own.
April 25, 2021
Wow what a story! This book explains so much, and really should be read in order of the series.
Rocco's life story, as well as Claudia's, is both heartbreaking and angering. And as much as this is a fictional story, the abuse each of them has suffered is still very much a reality for many out there. I think that is what makes this story even more powerful.
Rocco is hard and a killer and even cruel at times, yet a protector of women. Claudia is a survivor with a strong mother's instinct, and despite everything a warm and caring person. You just can not help feeling for them and getting caught up in their story. Thank goodness for the epilogue and the bonus epilogue for leaving us with the happy ending.
This book is a powerhouse, must read addition to this series. For those already liking Rocco in the previous books, you will love him by the end of this.
Rocco's life story, as well as Claudia's, is both heartbreaking and angering. And as much as this is a fictional story, the abuse each of them has suffered is still very much a reality for many out there. I think that is what makes this story even more powerful.
Rocco is hard and a killer and even cruel at times, yet a protector of women. Claudia is a survivor with a strong mother's instinct, and despite everything a warm and caring person. You just can not help feeling for them and getting caught up in their story. Thank goodness for the epilogue and the bonus epilogue for leaving us with the happy ending.
This book is a powerhouse, must read addition to this series. For those already liking Rocco in the previous books, you will love him by the end of this.
May 4, 2021
Rocco Shay had always been there at Dimitri's side. They have been childhood friends and brothers by their respect and protection of one another.
It was a fantastic read to discover more behind the Rocco.
He was always portrayed as a man with secrets. I have enjoyed learning more about Rocco's character and his backstory is indeed heartbreaking.
Claudia Sanchez is a wowan who has never been given her time to shine and shine she does. What a strong willed wowan who finally gets to reveal her innerstrengh.
After Rocco being introduced to Claudia in prison by Dimitri's wife Roxanne, he finds himself captivated by this quiet and somewhat frightened woman. After discovering her life has been almost as disturbed and abusive as his own he can't seem to stop wanting to give her her life back to her at any cost. But will it cost them both too much.
It was a fantastic read to discover more behind the Rocco.
He was always portrayed as a man with secrets. I have enjoyed learning more about Rocco's character and his backstory is indeed heartbreaking.
Claudia Sanchez is a wowan who has never been given her time to shine and shine she does. What a strong willed wowan who finally gets to reveal her innerstrengh.
After Rocco being introduced to Claudia in prison by Dimitri's wife Roxanne, he finds himself captivated by this quiet and somewhat frightened woman. After discovering her life has been almost as disturbed and abusive as his own he can't seem to stop wanting to give her her life back to her at any cost. But will it cost them both too much.
April 22, 2021
This is by far my favourite book of the Italian cartel series. Isaac and Marcus will always be my favourites but Rocco is right up there. He is crude, violent, even cruel at times, but he is loyal and his protection of women is remarkable. This book answers some of the questions I had after the Maddox trilogy. Claudia seems a little pathetic at the beginning but she proves just how strong she really is and how loving. Smith is amazing too and he is now becoming a real person instead of a disembodied voice. I think he might become a great favourite. This is a hard book to put down and just when you think it is so sad, the epilogue and even more the bonus scene bring smiles instead of tears and a feeling of fulfillment. A great story I would encourage everyone to read.
May 5, 2021
A raw emotional journey of discovery for one person and a turning point in another. Rocco and Claudia is a truly epic book! The danger that surrounds them is toe curling as is the steam between them. The abuse each of them suffer is a piece of fiction in this book. But in reality, it is still all too common. Even now when people are so much more educated about these type of things.
This is also a story of determination, grit and a refusal of letting life walk all over you. It repeats in my mind, if you don’t like what your circumstances are then straighten your back and pick yourself up and do something about it. Family is not always your blood. It’s the people who are in your life through the good times and the bad.
I reviewed a complementary copy of this book
This is also a story of determination, grit and a refusal of letting life walk all over you. It repeats in my mind, if you don’t like what your circumstances are then straighten your back and pick yourself up and do something about it. Family is not always your blood. It’s the people who are in your life through the good times and the bad.
I reviewed a complementary copy of this book
June 13, 2022
Gut wrenching love & devotion
Watching Rocco fight against himself to realize that he is worthy of love he can’t keep his mind off of Claudia. He knows breaking her out of prison is going to be a fight but she is worth it. She makes his whole and he has not felt that in a very long time. He knows the sacrifices he has to make to keep her safe and he will do anything to reunite her with her son Dillon. This is a gut wrenching book that will leave you rooting for Rocco & Claudia. They both have lots of baggage to overcome but seeing their love blossom and fight for each other is beyond hot and heartwarming. Happy Reading!!
Watching Rocco fight against himself to realize that he is worthy of love he can’t keep his mind off of Claudia. He knows breaking her out of prison is going to be a fight but she is worth it. She makes his whole and he has not felt that in a very long time. He knows the sacrifices he has to make to keep her safe and he will do anything to reunite her with her son Dillon. This is a gut wrenching book that will leave you rooting for Rocco & Claudia. They both have lots of baggage to overcome but seeing their love blossom and fight for each other is beyond hot and heartwarming. Happy Reading!!
April 25, 2021
Rocco Shay...what can I say? He is beautiful inside and out. From a child being in a situation out of his control to basically being raised in a cartel family, Rocco has been through a hell of a lot in 27 years that has hardened and shaped the man he is now. He is fierce, funny, loyal and the person you want to have your six. This book has triggers but Shandi does a great job when approaching such topics. Shandi doesn’t have many standalone books and I was grateful this one didn’t end in a cliffhanger! 10/10 recommend the entire Italian cartel!!
May 3, 2021
Rocco, Rocco, Rocco... what can a girl say. He’s seen and been through so much in 27 years but he is blessed to have a die hard friend in Dimi. They’ve done everything together and that’s what has allowed Rocco to survive. Until now that is. Rocco is a no holds barred, take no prisoners, mafia boy. He has no qualms dispensing his brand of justice especially if you mistreat women or children. Oh but did I mention he’s hot as hell too! He may be a hellion when duty calls but he’s a powder puff when it comes to Claudia. She’s meek vulnerable but just what Rocco needs to slay his demons.
June 24, 2025
Living with a monster...
I have followed Shadi Boyes for a long time now. Not once did I not understand the storyline. You have to read book one of the series to get a better picture. It's like reading between the lines. I remember Col from past reads, and I'm glad he's dead. How the hell do you send your demons where they belong? You find the right.. wait... Can't say that either.. I'm glad Rocco got his.... wait.. I can't spill the beans. Go read book one. You won't be sorry .
I have followed Shadi Boyes for a long time now. Not once did I not understand the storyline. You have to read book one of the series to get a better picture. It's like reading between the lines. I remember Col from past reads, and I'm glad he's dead. How the hell do you send your demons where they belong? You find the right.. wait... Can't say that either.. I'm glad Rocco got his.... wait.. I can't spill the beans. Go read book one. You won't be sorry .
May 19, 2021
Rocco is Rockin’
This book was totally worth the wait! Shandi has given us intrigue, suspense, action, romance and more in Rocco and Claudia’s story. We get to see more of the underworld and more detail of things that have occurred in the other Italian Cartel books but from a different perspective. This was amazing and I loved how she weaved all facets of Ravenshoe, Hopeton, and her entire mafia world into this one book.
This book was totally worth the wait! Shandi has given us intrigue, suspense, action, romance and more in Rocco and Claudia’s story. We get to see more of the underworld and more detail of things that have occurred in the other Italian Cartel books but from a different perspective. This was amazing and I loved how she weaved all facets of Ravenshoe, Hopeton, and her entire mafia world into this one book.
June 10, 2021
Rocco is tasked with taking Roxanne to see her friend in jail, where he meets Claudia, a woman whose been through so much yet shows her strength, a person Rocco can relate too. these two rip your heart out with their past and give you hope for a future together but is anything ever that simple? Well written with a great story line and characters you cant help fall in love with!
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.
June 17, 2021
This is a gritty story about the abuse suffered by Rocco and Claudia at the hands of their family. Rocco is brutal as he is in the mafia but when he meets Claudia he wants to help the young woman who has been wrongly convicted and torn away from her newborn son by her husbands family. There is quiet a bit of brutally and childhood sexual abuse that may be hard for some to read but it explains why these characters are like they are.
June 18, 2021
A pleasure to read.
In this 8th story in the Italian Cartel books we get told all about Rocco and Claudia and, as usual, the more triggers listed the better the book is. Rocco is so hot and how he protects Claudia was perfect. I was left dreaming about him even after I finished this book. I can't wait for the next read by the talented Shandi Boyes.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
In this 8th story in the Italian Cartel books we get told all about Rocco and Claudia and, as usual, the more triggers listed the better the book is. Rocco is so hot and how he protects Claudia was perfect. I was left dreaming about him even after I finished this book. I can't wait for the next read by the talented Shandi Boyes.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 29, 2022
Disappointed about this book.
First almost a half of the book has already been told in the other Italian cartel books and really there was no point retelling the same thing again so I found myself skipping this whole part.
Sometimes adding details to a scene that's already been in other books can be great but here there was no point and it was way too long.
It could have been a great book but the retelling part took too much space and left Rocco's story bare.
First almost a half of the book has already been told in the other Italian cartel books and really there was no point retelling the same thing again so I found myself skipping this whole part.
Sometimes adding details to a scene that's already been in other books can be great but here there was no point and it was way too long.
It could have been a great book but the retelling part took too much space and left Rocco's story bare.
April 25, 2021
Rocco is equally brutal dangerous malicious come protective alpha caring cocky to funny in the blink of the eye.
Claudia is compassionate a fighter innocent vulnerable
Rocco and Claudia chemistry was instant and intense Rocco finally had someone to help keep his demons and nightmares at bay. Someone to love him someone he could love and proctor as fiercely as he does his mother and sister
Claudia is compassionate a fighter innocent vulnerable
Rocco and Claudia chemistry was instant and intense Rocco finally had someone to help keep his demons and nightmares at bay. Someone to love him someone he could love and proctor as fiercely as he does his mother and sister
May 4, 2021
Rocco is Dimitri’s best friend and right hand man. After suffering years of abuse, he becomes a guy who recognizes it in others and a savior of women, if you will. Shandi does an amazing job of addressing those issues and still creating this sexy, ruthless man. I love this series! Great writing by an amazing author!
June 13, 2021
Oh, so good. Who doesn't fall for a man who shoots first and asks questions later? Rocco is a fierce and sexy man who makes your heart patter and your clothes drop. Claudia was the perfect woman for such a protective and dominant man. I love this series.
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.
June 17, 2021
Shandi Boyes You have done it again what an absolutely outstanding read. To say that I’ve gone through every single emotion reading this book would be an absolute understatement this book has just totally totally blown me away. This whole series has but this one especially..
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.
June 18, 2021
Rocco is tasked with looking after Roxanne while she visits her friend in prison. Claudia had been beaten down and Rocco "sees" her. His protective instincts that only Dimitri sees have been triggered. This was fantastic!! Hot and steamy!
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.
June 23, 2021
Such an amazing read read! I was looking forward to Rocco’s story and it definitely didn’t disappoint, I loved Rocco and Claudia, there story was lovely, and of course we got Smith and Dimitri too 😁 Loved it with a perfect ending too! 🥰 looking forward to reading the next 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.
June 23, 2021
Wow, I have read some of this author stories and I find them written exceptional well. Full of great characters, drama, murder, and chemistry to burn the midnight oil. This book has it all. I think you’ll enjoy it.
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 31, 2023
Amazing!!!
I just can't get enough of this series. What I absolutely admire about these books is the fact the author stays true to the characters, they find love as mafia and remain mafia, they don't give up the life style because of their better halves. Marriage and babies makes it a wonderful bonus. Rocco was spicy read and leaves you wanting so much more.
I just can't get enough of this series. What I absolutely admire about these books is the fact the author stays true to the characters, they find love as mafia and remain mafia, they don't give up the life style because of their better halves. Marriage and babies makes it a wonderful bonus. Rocco was spicy read and leaves you wanting so much more.
August 12, 2024
Rocco is one of my favorite men in the Italian Cartel series. He's funny, sweet, and loves fiercely. His trauma has kept him from fully living. Enter Claudia, a woman with equally as much trauma. She captures his interest as quickly as he captors hers. She helps him deal with his past trauma that he has carried around his entire life. He helps her get back the most precious thing of hers. Somewhere along the way, they save each other.
May 7, 2021
For those that have read the Cartel series Rocco will be a familiar name. He has left us wanting to know more about him and this story answers so much and reveals the man behind the hired gun.
A must read and another stunning book from Shandi Boyes. Hot Hot Hot 😍
A must read and another stunning book from Shandi Boyes. Hot Hot Hot 😍
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews