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Cerasino Family Novella #2
Just For Him
Vincent Cerasino gives his all to the Cecilton PD, so much so there’s not much time or energy left for him to pursue any kind of meaningful relationship. Besides, he has yet to meet a woman he thinks would be willing to put up with the long hours, the inherent risks of the job, and the occasional lack of attention - just to be with him.
Haven McAlister might just be the exception. She’s the pretty waitress who always has a great cup of coffee and a ready smile waiting for him every night. The more he learns about her, the more he likes. If he could have a woman to come home to every night, he’d want it to be her.
Haven knows the best things in life don’t come easy or free, and that a little sacrifice can go a long way. When she learned half-brother was in a bad situation, she didn’t think twice about putting her continuing education on hold and take him in, even if it meant taking on a second job. That’s what family does, even when it’s just two of them.
Officer Vinnie’s nightly visit is always the highlight of her day. He’s handsome, funny, brave, and is one of the few people who truly appreciates her love of old-time gangster films. She wonders if he notices the little things she does, just for him.
When things get tough for Haven and her brother, Vinnie is right there, doing what he does best— saving the day and unknowingly claiming another little piece of her heart in the process.
And maybe, just maybe, things aren’t as one-sided as they seem…
Haven McAlister might just be the exception. She’s the pretty waitress who always has a great cup of coffee and a ready smile waiting for him every night. The more he learns about her, the more he likes. If he could have a woman to come home to every night, he’d want it to be her.
Haven knows the best things in life don’t come easy or free, and that a little sacrifice can go a long way. When she learned half-brother was in a bad situation, she didn’t think twice about putting her continuing education on hold and take him in, even if it meant taking on a second job. That’s what family does, even when it’s just two of them.
Officer Vinnie’s nightly visit is always the highlight of her day. He’s handsome, funny, brave, and is one of the few people who truly appreciates her love of old-time gangster films. She wonders if he notices the little things she does, just for him.
When things get tough for Haven and her brother, Vinnie is right there, doing what he does best— saving the day and unknowingly claiming another little piece of her heart in the process.
And maybe, just maybe, things aren’t as one-sided as they seem…
84 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 18, 2018
160 people are currently reading
117 people want to read
About the author
Abbie Zanders
79 books2,047 followersAbbie Zanders is a USA Today Bestselling Author with more than 55 published romance novels to date. Her stories range from contemporary to paranormal and everything in between. She promises her readers two things: happily ever afters, always, and no cliffhangers, ever.
Born and raised in the mountains of Northeastern Pennsylvania, where she sets most of her stories, she’s known for small town romance featuring golden-hearted alpha heroes and strong, relatable heroines. Besides being an avid reader and writer, she loves animals (especially big dogs), American muscle cars, and 80's hair bands.
Born and raised in the mountains of Northeastern Pennsylvania, where she sets most of her stories, she’s known for small town romance featuring golden-hearted alpha heroes and strong, relatable heroines. Besides being an avid reader and writer, she loves animals (especially big dogs), American muscle cars, and 80's hair bands.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
January 20, 2018
This was cute but could have been so much better.
First, a personal preference. I do NOT read clean romance. While this technically had sex at the end it was not described only discussed that it happened. Basically fade to black at the kissing. I felt cheated.
Second, the way the heroine talked was like she was in a old timey movie or tv show. I felt she sounded like a 90 year old at times. It was explained because she liked to watch old movies but it was still strange.
Otherwise it was a cute novella. I did not read the first book in the series because I heard it was clean. I knew there was a chance this one could be too. At least it was free through KU.
First, a personal preference. I do NOT read clean romance. While this technically had sex at the end it was not described only discussed that it happened. Basically fade to black at the kissing. I felt cheated.
Second, the way the heroine talked was like she was in a old timey movie or tv show. I felt she sounded like a 90 year old at times. It was explained because she liked to watch old movies but it was still strange.
Otherwise it was a cute novella. I did not read the first book in the series because I heard it was clean. I knew there was a chance this one could be too. At least it was free through KU.
January 29, 2018
Super cute.
I love this family!
I love this family!
February 11, 2018
Zanders always writes the perfect little stories. I love her writing and the geographical phrases she uses. Just For Him is another perfect example of how she can say so much in such a short amount of time and leave an impact.
Vinnie is a cop who comes into Haven’s workplace every night. Their relationship is regular customer and waitress small talk with a hint of flirting and a lot of attraction. However, it takes something happening for them to step out of the comfort of innocent flirting to dating. Meanwhile, Haven has a lot going on with two jobs and a kid brother who gets himself in trouble.
I liked all the relationships in this book. They all seem so easy, except with the insecurities of dating. Vinnie’s family is amazing, while Haven and her brother stand on rocky ground, mostly due to her brother being young and not understanding where he belongs with Haven.
A simple, clean-cut read that drags you in.
Vinnie is a cop who comes into Haven’s workplace every night. Their relationship is regular customer and waitress small talk with a hint of flirting and a lot of attraction. However, it takes something happening for them to step out of the comfort of innocent flirting to dating. Meanwhile, Haven has a lot going on with two jobs and a kid brother who gets himself in trouble.
I liked all the relationships in this book. They all seem so easy, except with the insecurities of dating. Vinnie’s family is amazing, while Haven and her brother stand on rocky ground, mostly due to her brother being young and not understanding where he belongs with Haven.
A simple, clean-cut read that drags you in.
February 3, 2018
This is the second book in the cerasino series. It is Vincent and havens story. I have been waiting for Vincent's story since the first book. This is a nice quick read. It is a novella, just like the title says. I enjoyed reading this story, and I thought it was a sweet story. I liked the addition of haven's brother. I would definitely recommend this book, especially if you want a short read for a lunch break.
January 28, 2018
The Cerasino Family. Vinnie and Haven
The second novella in the series but can be read as a standalone. Vinnie is a police officer and Haven is a waitress working two jobs to make ends meet for herself and her brother, Joel. When Vinnie and Haven finally get together ❤ with the help of the entire Cerasino, sparks fly. This is a story of love 💘, romance, and family. A wonderful read. Spend time with the Cerasino Family. A good, loving, and caring novella.
The second novella in the series but can be read as a standalone. Vinnie is a police officer and Haven is a waitress working two jobs to make ends meet for herself and her brother, Joel. When Vinnie and Haven finally get together ❤ with the help of the entire Cerasino, sparks fly. This is a story of love 💘, romance, and family. A wonderful read. Spend time with the Cerasino Family. A good, loving, and caring novella.
January 29, 2018
Sweet and charming
I love this Italian family! Vinnie is a cop. Haven is a waitress with a brother she is trying to raise. For a novella this story has well written and fully developed characters and a good story line. I only wish it was longer!! Enjoy! I can't wait for the next book!
I love this Italian family! Vinnie is a cop. Haven is a waitress with a brother she is trying to raise. For a novella this story has well written and fully developed characters and a good story line. I only wish it was longer!! Enjoy! I can't wait for the next book!
January 24, 2018
If you're looking for a well-written and creative story, you found it here.
A beautiful novella. It may be a fast read but that's only because you're not going to want to put it down. You will fall in love with Cerasino family. We are first introduced to the Cerasino family in Just For Me. That was also a great read and I suggest reading also.
Happy Reading!
A beautiful novella. It may be a fast read but that's only because you're not going to want to put it down. You will fall in love with Cerasino family. We are first introduced to the Cerasino family in Just For Me. That was also a great read and I suggest reading also.
Happy Reading!
January 23, 2018
Cute novella. Pretty clean, one sex scene (no descriptive sex scene)
January 20, 2018
A novella that's worth reading!
Vinnie and Haven are book two in a great beginning of a set of novellas!
Vinnie is a great guy from a good Italian family who found his one in Raven. Joel , Ravens brother, adds another depth to this awesome book.
Love
Family
Food
Wish I could get some of Mama C's recipes
Perfect length to read in one night if you read fast or two nights if you wanna make it last.
Vinnie and Haven are book two in a great beginning of a set of novellas!
Vinnie is a great guy from a good Italian family who found his one in Raven. Joel , Ravens brother, adds another depth to this awesome book.
Love
Family
Food
Wish I could get some of Mama C's recipes
Perfect length to read in one night if you read fast or two nights if you wanna make it last.
January 20, 2018
Loving this series and getting to know the stories of the members of the Cerasino Family. While this story may be a little shorter in length, you'll still find plenty of love, humor, suspense and family interaction. As I finished each chapter, I couldn't wait to read the next. Highly recommend this series and can't wait for the next book.
January 17, 2018
I absolutely loved this short story by Abbie Zander's, she one hell of an author and always holds my interest with in the story.
I was pulled in right from the start of the books, watching it play out in my head while reading the words. The emotions with which the characters feel throughout in the storey, you can feel, I actually when through them with the characters.
If you enjoy books by Abbie Zanders, this is one you don't want to miss, I personally think it is worth the five stars I have given it, I also recommend it. You won't be sorry.
I look forward to what is next by Abbie Zanders.
I was pulled in right from the start of the books, watching it play out in my head while reading the words. The emotions with which the characters feel throughout in the storey, you can feel, I actually when through them with the characters.
If you enjoy books by Abbie Zanders, this is one you don't want to miss, I personally think it is worth the five stars I have given it, I also recommend it. You won't be sorry.
I look forward to what is next by Abbie Zanders.
January 20, 2018
Excellent
I enjoyed this novella. The story was well developed even though it was a novella. It never felt rushed and The character development was impressive. I hope this book turns into a series.
I enjoyed this novella. The story was well developed even though it was a novella. It never felt rushed and The character development was impressive. I hope this book turns into a series.
January 18, 2018
Great read
If you're looking for a short read this is it. This is the second novella in the series but you don't have to read the first to follow. I hope you fall in love with the cerrasino family like I did.
If you're looking for a short read this is it. This is the second novella in the series but you don't have to read the first to follow. I hope you fall in love with the cerrasino family like I did.
January 18, 2018
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Abbie Zanders is AMAZING! I just love the Cerasinos -and Vinnie has to be the sweetest one. Haven is in desperate need of a real hero in her life, and Officer Vinnie Cerasino is the man for the job! I totally cannot wait for the next book in this series!
Abbie Zanders is AMAZING! I just love the Cerasinos -and Vinnie has to be the sweetest one. Haven is in desperate need of a real hero in her life, and Officer Vinnie Cerasino is the man for the job! I totally cannot wait for the next book in this series!
January 18, 2018
Fun and sweet!
Fun, sweet, and happy. I enjoyed this addition to the series, but I can’t wait for the next one. I think it’s Dom’s turn!
Fun, sweet, and happy. I enjoyed this addition to the series, but I can’t wait for the next one. I think it’s Dom’s turn!
Read
February 11, 2021Looking for a short, sweet contemporary romance that’ll leave you smiling?
Vinnie devotes his life to protecting and serving others every day. But who is going to be there for him?
You’re going to love Officer Vinnie! Not only is he the golden-hearted protective type, he’s hot enough to be Mr. October in the annual charity calendar, too. Only one woman has captured his interest, though – the pretty waitress who always ensures fresh, hot coffee and extra bacon is waiting at the end of his shift, just for him.
Amazon: https://smarturl.it/azrJustForHim
Just For Him and the rest of the Cerasino Family Novellas are also available as part of your Kindle Unlimited subscription.
What some Goodreads Reviewers are saying:
* " Love feel good stories like this.” - Sandy
* " Everyone needs an Officer Vinnie!” - Susan
* " I just love the Cerasinos -and Vinnie has to be the sweetest one. Haven is in desperate need of a real hero in her life, and Officer Vinnie Cerasino is the man for the job!” - Sheryl
Vinnie devotes his life to protecting and serving others every day. But who is going to be there for him?
You’re going to love Officer Vinnie! Not only is he the golden-hearted protective type, he’s hot enough to be Mr. October in the annual charity calendar, too. Only one woman has captured his interest, though – the pretty waitress who always ensures fresh, hot coffee and extra bacon is waiting at the end of his shift, just for him.
Amazon: https://smarturl.it/azrJustForHim
Just For Him and the rest of the Cerasino Family Novellas are also available as part of your Kindle Unlimited subscription.
What some Goodreads Reviewers are saying:
* " Love feel good stories like this.” - Sandy
* " Everyone needs an Officer Vinnie!” - Susan
* " I just love the Cerasinos -and Vinnie has to be the sweetest one. Haven is in desperate need of a real hero in her life, and Officer Vinnie Cerasino is the man for the job!” - Sheryl
September 13, 2019
This is a short little read (90 pages, if you weren't paying attention to the blurb). Do not expect a deep twisty plot with lots of physical interactions and in depth character development.
But for its length, it is a great little read and the perfect compliment to Just for Me (Nick's story). I liked the main characters and the extended Cerasino family. For those seeking some hot horizontal mambo action - there is very little in this book (which for me is a plus as I tend to skip over those parts anyways). A decent plot with Haven's brother getting into trouble with the law which brings Vinnie closer to Haven and of course the giant extended Italian family pushing them together didn't hurt.
Several siblings are still unattached and needing to find their perfect match and I am looking forward to reading their stories.
But for its length, it is a great little read and the perfect compliment to Just for Me (Nick's story). I liked the main characters and the extended Cerasino family. For those seeking some hot horizontal mambo action - there is very little in this book (which for me is a plus as I tend to skip over those parts anyways). A decent plot with Haven's brother getting into trouble with the law which brings Vinnie closer to Haven and of course the giant extended Italian family pushing them together didn't hurt.
Several siblings are still unattached and needing to find their perfect match and I am looking forward to reading their stories.
February 26, 2021
Just For Him is a delightful romantic suspense by Abbie Zanders. This is a fairly quick read, perfect for those with limited reading time. Ms. Zanders has provided readers with a well-written book. The characters are fun, lovable and perfect for this book. Haven works two jobs to support her teenage stepbrother. She develops a crush on Vince, the cop that stops where she works every night for a meal. Vince can't stop himself from trying to help Haven without her knowing it. Haven and Vince's story is cover to cover drama, humor, heat, action and suspense. I loved this story and look forward to my next Abbie Zanders book. Just For Him is book 2 of the Cerasino Family Series but can be read as a standalone. This is a complete book, not a cliff-hanger.
April 30, 2025
Just for Him
Ok! The beginning was very interesting. This story is about Haven, Vinnie and Joel. Vinnie likes going to the cafe that Haven works at when he gets off his shift. Things get pretty bad for Haven when Joel gets into trouble. Vinnie comes to the rescue a few times and becomes a role model for Joel. Once this couple go on their first date, things move pretty fast. The gang that made a huge deal when Joel said he wanted out. The gang destroyed the place where Haven worked. The cops finally caught the break they needed when Joel found out what the gang had done to his sister. The bad guys were finally taken care of. Now Haven and Vinnie work on their relationship. FANTASTIC job Abbie! I would recommend this book.
Ok! The beginning was very interesting. This story is about Haven, Vinnie and Joel. Vinnie likes going to the cafe that Haven works at when he gets off his shift. Things get pretty bad for Haven when Joel gets into trouble. Vinnie comes to the rescue a few times and becomes a role model for Joel. Once this couple go on their first date, things move pretty fast. The gang that made a huge deal when Joel said he wanted out. The gang destroyed the place where Haven worked. The cops finally caught the break they needed when Joel found out what the gang had done to his sister. The bad guys were finally taken care of. Now Haven and Vinnie work on their relationship. FANTASTIC job Abbie! I would recommend this book.
May 17, 2022
Vinnie and Haven
This series just keeps getting better with every book. Haven McAlister has had a rough few months. She is working 2 jobs and finishing raising her younger brother. Her job at night comes with a wonderful gift every day in the form of officer Vinnie Cerasino. They are mutually attracted to each other but neither one knows it. Her co worker and friend "helps" things along... much to Haven's chagrin. Vinnie is afraid of moving too fast and scaring Haven off. However, Fate has other ideas and Vinnie and Haven are in for a wild ride. Get this book ASAP and find out what happens. You won't regret it. Sorry, no spoilers.
This series just keeps getting better with every book. Haven McAlister has had a rough few months. She is working 2 jobs and finishing raising her younger brother. Her job at night comes with a wonderful gift every day in the form of officer Vinnie Cerasino. They are mutually attracted to each other but neither one knows it. Her co worker and friend "helps" things along... much to Haven's chagrin. Vinnie is afraid of moving too fast and scaring Haven off. However, Fate has other ideas and Vinnie and Haven are in for a wild ride. Get this book ASAP and find out what happens. You won't regret it. Sorry, no spoilers.
May 30, 2022
Vince and Haven
These stories are really sweet and I love how they start off and then how the guys woo their ladies. Vince is a cop and met Haven at the all night diner that she waitresses at. She also took in her brother that is seventeen, because of his drug addict mother. She works several jobs and even put her schooling on hold, so she could work and take care of her bills and brother. There are some breaking and entering and stealing going on around town. Joel gets caught up with the wrong crowd and eventually comes clean when Haven and her boss and other waitress get caught up in the fire at the diner. Happy reading.
These stories are really sweet and I love how they start off and then how the guys woo their ladies. Vince is a cop and met Haven at the all night diner that she waitresses at. She also took in her brother that is seventeen, because of his drug addict mother. She works several jobs and even put her schooling on hold, so she could work and take care of her bills and brother. There are some breaking and entering and stealing going on around town. Joel gets caught up with the wrong crowd and eventually comes clean when Haven and her boss and other waitress get caught up in the fire at the diner. Happy reading.
May 30, 2022
Another Cerasino finds love. Vinnie Cerasino see most the dark side of life as a police officer. The one guaranteed bright spot in his day is Haven McAlister with her sunny smile, charming personality and easy going disposition. She's noticed him too and looks forward to his nightly visits to the all night diner where she works. Some drama involving her brother has Vinnie at her side, helping out and supporting her. Nonno Cerasino declares Haven perfect for Vinnie. But then he already knew that.
March 1, 2021
GOOD THINGS HAPPENING FROM THE BAD
When the situation can’t get any worse and then it does, there is hope, there is support, there is a sizzling relationship that quickly blooms into something more. Being part of a huge, loving family definitely has advantages.
Just For Him brings the romance, a little tension, and lots of love. Could not put it down, it should not be missed. Definitely recommend.
When the situation can’t get any worse and then it does, there is hope, there is support, there is a sizzling relationship that quickly blooms into something more. Being part of a huge, loving family definitely has advantages.
Just For Him brings the romance, a little tension, and lots of love. Could not put it down, it should not be missed. Definitely recommend.
May 8, 2022
The next Cerasino brother goes down, to a sunny young woman carrying her world on her shoulders. Taking custody of her teenage half-brother, she works multiple jobs to keep afloat. Vinnie Cerasino is a local police officer and sees Haven during his night shift breaks. When trouble hits both Haven and her brother, Vinnie is able to help and convinces himself that he should take a chance with her.
May 11, 2020
Light & Sweet
Sometimes you just need a little break from the heavy stuff and this book was perfect!!! This is one of my favorite authors and I don’t know how I’m just now finding these two short stories of hers...the timing was perfect! It’s nice to have a clean story to read from one of my favs...proving her talent all over again!! I’m in it for the story!!
Sometimes you just need a little break from the heavy stuff and this book was perfect!!! This is one of my favorite authors and I don’t know how I’m just now finding these two short stories of hers...the timing was perfect! It’s nice to have a clean story to read from one of my favs...proving her talent all over again!! I’m in it for the story!!
June 9, 2022
I love the series. Romance and friendship and family. Sexy without in your face sex. Classic and classy. I got chuckles at the reference to old TV and old movie quotes. So much fun. Sinister happenings but alpha males to the rescue. Bravo! I looking forward to reading more books in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via BookFunnel and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via BookFunnel and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 20, 2018
Connie and Haven
Abbie Zanders first got my attention with her Callahan series and I really enjoy her stories.
This new series is very good and I enjoyed this second book. My only disappointment is that the story is so short. I really would enjoy more character development
Abbie Zanders first got my attention with her Callahan series and I really enjoy her stories.
This new series is very good and I enjoyed this second book. My only disappointment is that the story is so short. I really would enjoy more character development
January 7, 2020
Short & Sweet
I really like reading this book. The characters are great and the story line is good. The only thing that I didn't like is that it's too short. I wish it was a lot longer.
I really like reading this book. The characters are great and the story line is good. The only thing that I didn't like is that it's too short. I wish it was a lot longer.
May 26, 2020
Another winner!
I think I loved this one more than the first! I absolutely love the family dynamics that this series has. Even with everything going on, the underlying theme is always family support.
I think I loved this one more than the first! I absolutely love the family dynamics that this series has. Even with everything going on, the underlying theme is always family support.
April 22, 2021
Good read
Another good read from Abbie. Nice wee romance, mystery and Italian family dynamics make this short read well worth while. Liked both characters and the family on both sides added to the story.
Another good read from Abbie. Nice wee romance, mystery and Italian family dynamics make this short read well worth while. Liked both characters and the family on both sides added to the story.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews