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The Five Families #2.5
Guilty Stars
*This is a novelette only available as bonus content at the end of Never Truth*
I spent years devoting my life to a woman whose heart belonged to another man. She belongs to him now, and in the process, I was shot and wrongfully arrested. It’s been a shit couple of months.
I never dreamed it would all turn around the second I met my court-ordered shrink. She was breathtaking. Irresistible. Keenly perceptive and impossibly stubborn—an alluring challenge I couldn’t ignore.
She thinks her oath of ethics will keep our relationship strictly professional.
I look forward to proving her otherwise…
Guilty Stars is a complete Five Families novelette with an HEA and no cliffhangers meant to be read between books 2 and 3 of The Five Families Series.
I spent years devoting my life to a woman whose heart belonged to another man. She belongs to him now, and in the process, I was shot and wrongfully arrested. It’s been a shit couple of months.
I never dreamed it would all turn around the second I met my court-ordered shrink. She was breathtaking. Irresistible. Keenly perceptive and impossibly stubborn—an alluring challenge I couldn’t ignore.
She thinks her oath of ethics will keep our relationship strictly professional.
I look forward to proving her otherwise…
Guilty Stars is a complete Five Families novelette with an HEA and no cliffhangers meant to be read between books 2 and 3 of The Five Families Series.
53 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 12, 2021
About the author
Jill Ramsower
46 books3,316 followersJill is a Texan, born and raised. She manages the hectic social calendars for her three active children and occasionally spends an evening with her dashing husband. Aside from being an author and a mom, she's a travel junkie and loves to read when she is not lost in her own stories.
With Jill’s books, you can count on confident heroines, plenty of steamy tension, and deliciously assertive leading men. There are no guarantees in life, but with her books, you know everything will work out in the end. However, a perfect ending would not be nearly as satisfying without a seemingly insurmountable challenge. Jill loves to add plenty of adversity in her stories, creating unforgettably dynamic characters and sneaky plot twists you will never see coming.
Find her on Facebook here-->https://www.facebook.com/jillramsower...
Never miss a release! Sign up for her newsletter here-->https://jillramsower_234b.gr8.com/
Check out her website here-->https://www.jillramsower.com/
With Jill’s books, you can count on confident heroines, plenty of steamy tension, and deliciously assertive leading men. There are no guarantees in life, but with her books, you know everything will work out in the end. However, a perfect ending would not be nearly as satisfying without a seemingly insurmountable challenge. Jill loves to add plenty of adversity in her stories, creating unforgettably dynamic characters and sneaky plot twists you will never see coming.
Find her on Facebook here-->https://www.facebook.com/jillramsower...
Never miss a release! Sign up for her newsletter here-->https://jillramsower_234b.gr8.com/
Check out her website here-->https://www.jillramsower.com/
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
February 14, 2021
I’m frustrated! I loved this story a lot, and I want more of Michael and Evie. They were amazing together.
I loved that Evie was hesitant to start a relationship because of Michael’s profession, and that she was confident enough to actually voice her concern. And that Michael wasn’t offended. That’s the kind of dynamic that existed between them, and I loved it. They are mature adults who know where they stand.
Their backstories were brushed in broad strokes, just enough to create an intense scene where Michael can show his protectiveness. I loved that he was a man comfortable enough with his feelings to not play games with Evie. He’s honest about his intentions right at the beginning. A great novelette to get a bit more of this amazing series!
Quickie
- Series: The five families #2.5 (can be read as standalone)
- Hashtags: #mafia romance #novelette #second chance
- Triggers: misogyny, mention of domestic and psychological abuse
- Main couple: Evelyn Carter & Michael Savin
- Hotness: 4/5
- Romance: 4/5
- + loved Michael’s protective nature
- – too short! they deserved a full length novel
I loved that Evie was hesitant to start a relationship because of Michael’s profession, and that she was confident enough to actually voice her concern. And that Michael wasn’t offended. That’s the kind of dynamic that existed between them, and I loved it. They are mature adults who know where they stand.
Their backstories were brushed in broad strokes, just enough to create an intense scene where Michael can show his protectiveness. I loved that he was a man comfortable enough with his feelings to not play games with Evie. He’s honest about his intentions right at the beginning. A great novelette to get a bit more of this amazing series!
Quickie
- Series: The five families #2.5 (can be read as standalone)
- Hashtags: #mafia romance #novelette #second chance
- Triggers: misogyny, mention of domestic and psychological abuse
- Main couple: Evelyn Carter & Michael Savin
- Hotness: 4/5
- Romance: 4/5
- + loved Michael’s protective nature
- – too short! they deserved a full length novel
March 9, 2021
Cute fun story
February 15, 2021
Guilty Stars is a quick read in Jill Romsower's The Five Families series. You don't need to have read any of these books previously, but if you have then you will no doubt Michael, who gets his own happily ever after in this book.
Michael and Evie knew each other when they were at school and while Michael might remember her, he didn't pay much attention to her. Now, meeting again as adults, there's no denying the connection and chemistry between them.
This was a sweet and quick little love story that you can devour in one sitting if you like.
Michael and Evie knew each other when they were at school and while Michael might remember her, he didn't pay much attention to her. Now, meeting again as adults, there's no denying the connection and chemistry between them.
This was a sweet and quick little love story that you can devour in one sitting if you like.
January 2, 2026
Michael has dedicated his life to Sofia but he knows deep down that her heart belongs to Nico. While protecting her, he is injured and wrongfully arrested. With his best friend reunited with the love of her life and contending with his injury and legal battles, Michael never thought he would get his shot at love. That soon changes when he meets his court appointed therapist. Although Evie has had her eye on Michael since high school, she is determined to keep their relationship professional - however, Michael sees that as a challenge.
Jill Ramsower really knocks it out of the park with her novellas. This story can be read as a stand alone but reading it after Never Truth has a bigger impact. I liked Michael as a side character and never thought of seeing his side of things - after this, I need a full Michael and Evie book. I loved the dynamic between the pair and their excellent communication. The fact that this couple had a prior connection made this fast paced novella work so well.
🔥 “Evie, I’m going to kiss you now.”
🔥 "I think you’re incredible— a ray of fucking sunshine in this dirty, harsh city— and I want every bit of that warmth for myself."
🔥 "I adore you, Evie."
🔥 "I don’t want to compromise your job, but I’d rather ask for a new counselor than lose the chance to see you."
Jill Ramsower really knocks it out of the park with her novellas. This story can be read as a stand alone but reading it after Never Truth has a bigger impact. I liked Michael as a side character and never thought of seeing his side of things - after this, I need a full Michael and Evie book. I loved the dynamic between the pair and their excellent communication. The fact that this couple had a prior connection made this fast paced novella work so well.
🔥 “Evie, I’m going to kiss you now.”
🔥 "I think you’re incredible— a ray of fucking sunshine in this dirty, harsh city— and I want every bit of that warmth for myself."
🔥 "I adore you, Evie."
🔥 "I don’t want to compromise your job, but I’d rather ask for a new counselor than lose the chance to see you."
August 11, 2025
4 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Michael reminded me why side characters deserve main character energy and this novella delivered, but I needed so much more.
His connection with Evie, his court-mandated counselor, is fast, hot, and had me wishing the pages wouldn’t run out. Watching him move on from Sofia while still keeping their friendship intact? My heart. He deserved every bit of happiness he found here, but I can’t help feeling like a full-length novel would’ve made it perfect. This idea had all the pieces to bring soooo much tension if so 😭
Michael reminded me why side characters deserve main character energy and this novella delivered, but I needed so much more.
His connection with Evie, his court-mandated counselor, is fast, hot, and had me wishing the pages wouldn’t run out. Watching him move on from Sofia while still keeping their friendship intact? My heart. He deserved every bit of happiness he found here, but I can’t help feeling like a full-length novel would’ve made it perfect. This idea had all the pieces to bring soooo much tension if so 😭
June 22, 2023
I am loving the five families but I am ecstatic that micheal got his own story. Even though it’s short, it’s packed with tons of charm and enough steam to have you hooked!!
I love that the heroine in this book is from Michaels past and that he goes for what he wants. A very quick and enjoyable read!
I love that the heroine in this book is from Michaels past and that he goes for what he wants. A very quick and enjoyable read!
April 17, 2021
Goodness, this was amazing!
Series Rating: (5 ⭐️ average)
0.5 First Confession ★★★★★
1. Forever Lies ★★★★★
2. Never Truth ★★★★★
3. Blood Always ★★★★★
3.5 Where Loyalties Lie ★★★★★
4. Impossible Odds ★★★★★
5. Absolute Silence ★★★★★
Novelette. Guilty Stars ★★★★★
Series Rating: (5 ⭐️ average)
0.5 First Confession ★★★★★
1. Forever Lies ★★★★★
2. Never Truth ★★★★★
3. Blood Always ★★★★★
3.5 Where Loyalties Lie ★★★★★
4. Impossible Odds ★★★★★
5. Absolute Silence ★★★★★
Novelette. Guilty Stars ★★★★★
February 13, 2021
Endearing!
Really sweet quick read. Michael finally gets his happy ending and Evie is a perfect match for him.
I voluntarily read an advanced copy.
Really sweet quick read. Michael finally gets his happy ending and Evie is a perfect match for him.
I voluntarily read an advanced copy.
February 15, 2021
I couldn't wait to get a backstory about Michael! I adore his personality and devotion to those he loves. I enjoyed Evie and Michael's journey.
February 15, 2021
I love that we get to read more about Michael. The chemistry between Evie and Michael is so hot in this novelette!! I wish it was longer, but I loved it!!
January 17, 2026
PSA: I am not great at articulating my thoughts. This is just my opinion. Love what you love!
This novella really hit the spot in what I was looking for. I loved Michael as a character in "Never Truth" so to see more of his side explored away from the main story was great. He is such a different personality compared to many of the Byrne Brothers and, especially, Luca. This novella felt more realistic in terms of how someone may approach dating a member of the Mafia and the main characters were good together. Since this is a novella, I am not going to go into my usual detail below.
Previous Reviews:
First Confession - 3.5 Stars
Forever Lies - 2.5 Stars
Never Truth - 5 Stars
~*~*~*~Character Reviews~*~*~*~
The FMC:
Evelyn Carter - 4 Stars
I would have liked to rate Evelyn higher because she seems really interesting from what we see in the novella. Unfortunately, there just wasn't enough to give a whole five stars. Maybe she will show up later on, but she is definitely a solid, sweet and realistic character. Evelyn acted how most real women would act, not caught up on lust and hormones but really thought her actions through. I can appreciate her intellectual approach to Michael and what he has to offer.
The MMC:
Michael Savin - 5 Stars
Because Michael was in a good bit of "Never Truth" and we got to see flashbacks with him as a teenager, he was able to get those full five stars. Michael was really very similar to Nico in many ways, which is probably why Sofia was attracted to them both. There was this kindness to him where he was a bad boy but loved hard and used his connections to help those around him - definitely not selfish (lookin' at you Luca). I am super happy he was able to get a nice girl after pining for Sofia for so long.
~*~*~*~Parting Thoughts~*~*~*~
Glad to have these little novellas. While there wasn't really a bad guy, having the drama with Evie's step-father was fun. She was finally able to have someone to stand by her side and be in her corner when shitty things were happening. Seeing the relief on her face when Michael stood up to that man was just so sweet.
~*~*~*~Questions to Consider~*~*~*~
Would I Buy the Book?
Yes. Technically I already own it as you can get it for free on Ramsower's website if you sign up for her email.
Would I Re-Read the Book?
Yes. Since I liked book two so much and these feel interconnected, I can see myself re-reading this one if I ever re-read "Never Truth."
Will I Continue the Series?
Yes! As always, I will likely read as much of Ramsower's work as I can get my hands on.
This novella really hit the spot in what I was looking for. I loved Michael as a character in "Never Truth" so to see more of his side explored away from the main story was great. He is such a different personality compared to many of the Byrne Brothers and, especially, Luca. This novella felt more realistic in terms of how someone may approach dating a member of the Mafia and the main characters were good together. Since this is a novella, I am not going to go into my usual detail below.
Previous Reviews:
First Confession - 3.5 Stars
Forever Lies - 2.5 Stars
Never Truth - 5 Stars
~*~*~*~Character Reviews~*~*~*~
The FMC:
Evelyn Carter - 4 Stars
I would have liked to rate Evelyn higher because she seems really interesting from what we see in the novella. Unfortunately, there just wasn't enough to give a whole five stars. Maybe she will show up later on, but she is definitely a solid, sweet and realistic character. Evelyn acted how most real women would act, not caught up on lust and hormones but really thought her actions through. I can appreciate her intellectual approach to Michael and what he has to offer.
The MMC:
Michael Savin - 5 Stars
Because Michael was in a good bit of "Never Truth" and we got to see flashbacks with him as a teenager, he was able to get those full five stars. Michael was really very similar to Nico in many ways, which is probably why Sofia was attracted to them both. There was this kindness to him where he was a bad boy but loved hard and used his connections to help those around him - definitely not selfish (lookin' at you Luca). I am super happy he was able to get a nice girl after pining for Sofia for so long.
~*~*~*~Parting Thoughts~*~*~*~
Glad to have these little novellas. While there wasn't really a bad guy, having the drama with Evie's step-father was fun. She was finally able to have someone to stand by her side and be in her corner when shitty things were happening. Seeing the relief on her face when Michael stood up to that man was just so sweet.
~*~*~*~Questions to Consider~*~*~*~
Would I Buy the Book?
Yes. Technically I already own it as you can get it for free on Ramsower's website if you sign up for her email.
Would I Re-Read the Book?
Yes. Since I liked book two so much and these feel interconnected, I can see myself re-reading this one if I ever re-read "Never Truth."
Will I Continue the Series?
Yes! As always, I will likely read as much of Ramsower's work as I can get my hands on.
"I wasn't sure I'd fully experience such an irrational thought pattern until that moment."
September 28, 2021
loved!!!
So happy for Michael! So glad he got a HEA. I loved him in Sofia and nicos book. You could tell he had once been in love with Sofia but he knew her heart belonged to nico. And their relationship was one of love, loyalty and devotion as best friends. He deserved a happy ending after seeing what an amazing guy he was. Which was only enhanced in this book. Loved it.
So happy for Michael! So glad he got a HEA. I loved him in Sofia and nicos book. You could tell he had once been in love with Sofia but he knew her heart belonged to nico. And their relationship was one of love, loyalty and devotion as best friends. He deserved a happy ending after seeing what an amazing guy he was. Which was only enhanced in this book. Loved it.
October 24, 2023
I loved this novella! I so wanted to know what happened with Michael after Never Truth (book 2 in the Five Families Series). This is a short read and can easily be read in one setting. Michael encounters Evie (an old class mate from high school) in a meet cute of the criminal kind. It’s fast paced and leaves you with an instant good feeling.
January 17, 2025
I love that we got a quick book for Michael from book 2! My heart was invested in him after everything he did for Sofia. He absolutely deserved a hea! Evie is the perfect fmc to his mmc! I love that they had history from high school so the story didn't feel like instalove. These two are couples goals!
April 4, 2024
Awesome short story.
Michael is finally moving on, his best friend has the love of her life back and he realizes he is happy for her. When Michael runs into a classmate from high school, Evie, he gets to find out what he missed when he wasn't paying attention.
Michael is finally moving on, his best friend has the love of her life back and he realizes he is happy for her. When Michael runs into a classmate from high school, Evie, he gets to find out what he missed when he wasn't paying attention.
November 6, 2025
Cute novella, I'm so happy Micheal got a HEA! In book 2, I had reservations about him, but he turned out to be a good guy. I do with he had a full length story but this was a fun glimpse at him and Evie.
January 19, 2023
Tooo short....needed more...
May 1, 2023
Love this series.
Recommend to all
Recommend to all
March 2, 2024
Майкл ❤️ булочка з корицею 🥹
July 28, 2024
I'm really glad that there was a novella after Never Truth so that Michael could have his story.
April 3, 2025
I loved this novella! The only reason I gave it 3 stars was because I wanted more.
April 18, 2024
I am so glad she did this to follow up on Michael! When I finished Never Truth I really wanted a HEA for him. Evie was perfect!
May 5, 2025
Michael & Evie. This was just too short for my taste. Both MCs deserved more of a story. I was so excited when I saw Michael had a book because I loved him in Sofia's book. The fact that he was in love with Sofia but he knew that her heart had always belonged to Nico so he never went after her. He friend-zoned himself with her because he wanted what was best for her. So I loved him.
I loved his background with Evie but I just wanted more for them.
I loved his background with Evie but I just wanted more for them.
June 17, 2021
Let's talk about how Michael literally deserved this Novella after all the shit he went through! This loyal Bae stuck by Sofia for years and literally took a bullet and jail time to save her life! I would have been super salty with Jill if we didn't get a story about Michael lol. Even though his story wasn't a full novel, this spicy little novella had me hooked and I loved that Michael, after getting the shit end of stick, got his HEA and in true Mafioso fashion! Another Jill masterpiece...10/10 5+++ Stars all around!
February 18, 2021
What a fantastic novella! Michael and Evie, love their story! I love second chance romances. I love Ms. Ramsower's writing!
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews