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Wanted Men #1
Per amore, per vendetta
Gabriel Moretti, facoltoso uomo d'affari, pensava di aver voltato definitivamente le spalle alla malavita, lui che un tempo era considerato il capo più temuto della mafia. Ma il suo mentore, Vasily Tarasov, lo richiama a New York per affidargli un incarico molto delicato: proteggere Eva Jacobs, la figlia che Vasily non ha mai riconosciuto e che ha abbandonato quando era ancora in fasce per tenerla al riparo dalle dinamiche criminose di cui lui stesso era, ed è tutt'ora, a capo.
Gabriel non teme niente e nessuno, ma quando posa gli occhi su Eva capisce che quella donna con la sua forza e la sua dolcezza, potrebbe fargli più male di un colpo di pistola dritto al cuore.
Tra i due l'attrazione è fortissima, tanto che Gabriel deve sforzarsi di non mescolare affari e piacere quando invece dovrebbe mantenere saldo il controllo.
La madre di Eva è morta per mano di quegli assassini che il padre ha cercato di tenere lontano pagando un prezzo altissimo, ma c'è un pericolo più subdolo che minaccia la ragazza: si chiama Stefano Moretti, ed è pronto a sfruttare Eva per colpire il fratello, Gabriel, dove fa più male.
Gabriel non teme niente e nessuno, ma quando posa gli occhi su Eva capisce che quella donna con la sua forza e la sua dolcezza, potrebbe fargli più male di un colpo di pistola dritto al cuore.
Tra i due l'attrazione è fortissima, tanto che Gabriel deve sforzarsi di non mescolare affari e piacere quando invece dovrebbe mantenere saldo il controllo.
La madre di Eva è morta per mano di quegli assassini che il padre ha cercato di tenere lontano pagando un prezzo altissimo, ma c'è un pericolo più subdolo che minaccia la ragazza: si chiama Stefano Moretti, ed è pronto a sfruttare Eva per colpire il fratello, Gabriel, dove fa più male.
304 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 11, 2014
349 people are currently reading
5533 people want to read
About the author
Nancy Haviland
16 books1,180 followersNancy Haviland is the author of the STEEL JACKALS MC series, and the bestselling organized crime series, WANTED MEN. She writes about her hard loving alphas from her home near Toronto, Ontario.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 438 reviews
February 26, 2015
3 "Meh" Stars
I'm kind of apathetic about this book, honestly.
I liked it well enough; however, I just didn't find it to be all that memorable.
Plus, it took me almost a week to finish this thing. And reading time is like dog years in my - and most serious readers' - world...
...And by "serious" I mean people who read mass quantities, not necessarily quality. You will see "Alien Gorilla Sex" on my tbr before you ever see War & Peace folks. Just sayin'...
Simply put:
One Day or More = Not all that into it.
But I digress.
You would think I would have loved this thing, being that it had a lot of my favorite elements:
- Mafia
- MC Club
- Uber possessive Alpha Male
- Brotherhood style group of man/friend bromances
- Tattoos
But something was just missing for me and I can't put my finger on it.
Gabriel was cool.
Eva was okay...
...If a little too perfect.
But at least she wasn't a self-righteous asshat with no brain.
Regardless, like I said, something was just missing for me.
But I still plan on reading the second one. Vincente and Nika's story sounds interesting and they had a lot of chemistry in this book.
Plus, Vincente sounds HOT.
I'm kind of apathetic about this book, honestly.
I liked it well enough; however, I just didn't find it to be all that memorable.
Plus, it took me almost a week to finish this thing. And reading time is like dog years in my - and most serious readers' - world...
...And by "serious" I mean people who read mass quantities, not necessarily quality. You will see "Alien Gorilla Sex" on my tbr before you ever see War & Peace folks. Just sayin'...
Simply put:
One Day or More = Not all that into it.
But I digress.
You would think I would have loved this thing, being that it had a lot of my favorite elements:
- Mafia
- MC Club
- Uber possessive Alpha Male
- Brotherhood style group of man/friend bromances
- Tattoos
But something was just missing for me and I can't put my finger on it.
Gabriel was cool.
Eva was okay...
...If a little too perfect.
But at least she wasn't a self-righteous asshat with no brain.
Regardless, like I said, something was just missing for me.
But I still plan on reading the second one. Vincente and Nika's story sounds interesting and they had a lot of chemistry in this book.
Plus, Vincente sounds HOT.
November 6, 2014
4.5 stars
Title:A Love of Vengeance
Series:Wanted Men #1
Author:Nancy Haviland
Release date: November 11, 2014
Rating:4.5 stars
Cliffhanger:No
HEA:
"The day I hear you've found the woman you want to spend the rest of your life with...I'll be there to take her away from you. The same way you took Adrianna from me."
Years ago, a vendetta started when Gabriel followed through on his father's orders and unknowingly caused the death of the woman his brother loved. He left the lifestyle of the family and decided to go "straight". But when the Pakhan (Russian Boss) calls him for a special request, you don't say no. There is no one Vasily will trust as much as Gabriel to guard his only daughter while he leaves the country. Eva's mother has just been killed by the mob after her connection to the boss was discovered. All these years, he thought he was protecting them by keeping them out of his life, but in the end, it was all in vain. Which leaves Eva all alone in the world. At least, that's what she believes.
From the moment he sets eyes on Eva's photograph, this woman who he must guard with his life, Gabe knows his life got a whole lot more complicated. And after weeks of him and his security trailing and watching her, his attraction to her has grown uncontrollably.
That hair. He wanted to wrap the silky onyx mass around his wrist and pull, tipping her head back, until he had easy access to those lips he craved. Mine.
His every instinct tells him that pursuing her personally would be nothing but dangerous. But when he secretly steers her in a position in his company in order to keep her in closer proximity....he can no longer ignore his need for this woman.
Seriously, Gabe was sinfully sexy, all wrapped up in one dangerous package. He was completely charming and supremely confident, (except when Eva was messing with his head) and as you would expect, feared and used to getting his way. Eva didn't stand a chance against his smooth moves and dominant personality. He pretty much makes it impossible to not fall for him.
With a completely straight face, he said, "Show me a man who could pass up the opportunity to stare at you all day and I'll introduce you to his boyfriend."
Of course, Eva isn't one to let anyone walk all over her and she has brains in her head (and uses them!) I loved this heroine. Loved. Finally! An intelligent heroine that's strong, but not so much that she becomes hard and unidentifiable. Because of her mother's less than perfect love life, she's shut herself off and inexperienced with men, but that doesn't mean that the author equates that with naive. Yes, she was fooled by Gabe in the beginning, but who wouldn't be? She keeps everyone on their toes and I loved that about her. Not only that, but she wasn't afraid of Gabe...even when he was whipping out his weapons in attack mode.
"Is the cannon strapped to your thigh coming out next? Or are we saving that for when we're alone?" She lifted her eyebrows as Alek and Quan roared with laughter.
Gabe's brother Stefano has caught on to Eva's importance to the family and most importantly, to Gabe. Now more than ever, her life is hanging in the balance. If anything were to happen to her, not only would her father be out to kill, but a full out war would be born from her blood.
Admittedly, it took me a while to acclimate myself around this detailed mafia landscape, I actually had to make notes. Highlighting just wasn't enough this time. Between the underbosses, bosses, security men and friends, various family members (there were lots) you really have a lot to take in. There was even a motorcycle club connected to Eva and Gabe as well. Caleb Paynne is Eva's best friend Nika's brother and VP of the Obsidian Devil's MC. She's literally surrounded by huge, scary dangerous, and deadly men. And yeah, I pretty much want to read each one of their own stories. The secondary characters weren't insignificant-each one played an integral part of the plot.
I really sank myself into this story so much, I didn't want to come up for air. The first half focused mostly on Gabe and Eva connecting and her realizing her own identity in his world. The last half is where the action came in full force. Everything centered around Eva and Gabe accepting their need for each other, and him accepting his true destiny all the while trying to stay one step ahead of their enemies.
This was such an exceptional read from author Nancy Haviland. And apparently, her debut book as well which really blows me away. This comes across as the work of a seasoned author with well thought out characters that really come to life and grab a hold of you. When the next book in the series comes out, I'll most likely be the first to one click the book after stalking Amazon. I'm so excited to see where she takes the series next with Vincente and Nika.
FOLLOW SMOKIN HOT BOOK BLOG ON:
Title:A Love of Vengeance
Series:Wanted Men #1
Author:Nancy Haviland
Release date: November 11, 2014
Rating:4.5 stars
Cliffhanger:No
HEA:
"The day I hear you've found the woman you want to spend the rest of your life with...I'll be there to take her away from you. The same way you took Adrianna from me."
Years ago, a vendetta started when Gabriel followed through on his father's orders and unknowingly caused the death of the woman his brother loved. He left the lifestyle of the family and decided to go "straight". But when the Pakhan (Russian Boss) calls him for a special request, you don't say no. There is no one Vasily will trust as much as Gabriel to guard his only daughter while he leaves the country. Eva's mother has just been killed by the mob after her connection to the boss was discovered. All these years, he thought he was protecting them by keeping them out of his life, but in the end, it was all in vain. Which leaves Eva all alone in the world. At least, that's what she believes.
From the moment he sets eyes on Eva's photograph, this woman who he must guard with his life, Gabe knows his life got a whole lot more complicated. And after weeks of him and his security trailing and watching her, his attraction to her has grown uncontrollably.
That hair. He wanted to wrap the silky onyx mass around his wrist and pull, tipping her head back, until he had easy access to those lips he craved. Mine.
His every instinct tells him that pursuing her personally would be nothing but dangerous. But when he secretly steers her in a position in his company in order to keep her in closer proximity....he can no longer ignore his need for this woman.
Seriously, Gabe was sinfully sexy, all wrapped up in one dangerous package. He was completely charming and supremely confident, (except when Eva was messing with his head) and as you would expect, feared and used to getting his way. Eva didn't stand a chance against his smooth moves and dominant personality. He pretty much makes it impossible to not fall for him.
With a completely straight face, he said, "Show me a man who could pass up the opportunity to stare at you all day and I'll introduce you to his boyfriend."
Of course, Eva isn't one to let anyone walk all over her and she has brains in her head (and uses them!) I loved this heroine. Loved. Finally! An intelligent heroine that's strong, but not so much that she becomes hard and unidentifiable. Because of her mother's less than perfect love life, she's shut herself off and inexperienced with men, but that doesn't mean that the author equates that with naive. Yes, she was fooled by Gabe in the beginning, but who wouldn't be? She keeps everyone on their toes and I loved that about her. Not only that, but she wasn't afraid of Gabe...even when he was whipping out his weapons in attack mode.
"Is the cannon strapped to your thigh coming out next? Or are we saving that for when we're alone?" She lifted her eyebrows as Alek and Quan roared with laughter.
Gabe's brother Stefano has caught on to Eva's importance to the family and most importantly, to Gabe. Now more than ever, her life is hanging in the balance. If anything were to happen to her, not only would her father be out to kill, but a full out war would be born from her blood.
Admittedly, it took me a while to acclimate myself around this detailed mafia landscape, I actually had to make notes. Highlighting just wasn't enough this time. Between the underbosses, bosses, security men and friends, various family members (there were lots) you really have a lot to take in. There was even a motorcycle club connected to Eva and Gabe as well. Caleb Paynne is Eva's best friend Nika's brother and VP of the Obsidian Devil's MC. She's literally surrounded by huge, scary dangerous, and deadly men. And yeah, I pretty much want to read each one of their own stories. The secondary characters weren't insignificant-each one played an integral part of the plot.
I really sank myself into this story so much, I didn't want to come up for air. The first half focused mostly on Gabe and Eva connecting and her realizing her own identity in his world. The last half is where the action came in full force. Everything centered around Eva and Gabe accepting their need for each other, and him accepting his true destiny all the while trying to stay one step ahead of their enemies.
This was such an exceptional read from author Nancy Haviland. And apparently, her debut book as well which really blows me away. This comes across as the work of a seasoned author with well thought out characters that really come to life and grab a hold of you. When the next book in the series comes out, I'll most likely be the first to one click the book after stalking Amazon. I'm so excited to see where she takes the series next with Vincente and Nika.
FOLLOW SMOKIN HOT BOOK BLOG ON:
July 30, 2016
***5 "Made men's Vengeance" stars***
That was hot, hot, hot!!!
And much more things...
Whoa!!! I wasn't expecting it too be soooooo.... good!!!
I adore mobster books and this was not an exception!!!
This is my new favorite series!!!
I love all these wanted men... All of them...
Yep, in the beginning it was a little bit difficult to put them on my mind in right order but now i just love them... They are all of them amazing!!! Even the older one's like Vasily!!! That was amazing!!!
How could you resist them???
They are beautiful, tatooed, nicely dressed, lethal, but at the same time tender, they have high sense of humor and beyond all of the above, they are protective and loyal...
Nope, no woman in this earth can resist to those guys!!!!
But i have to stop talking about all of them and i have to focus in one of them...
Gabriel Moretti.
Gabriel was son of an Italian mafia boss and he was his father's heir as a Don. But after some bad things that happened before 5years, he left his position to the family and stay away from them. His brother Stefano became Don and he is seeking vengeance from Gabriel in the name of love.
Vasily Tarasov is the Don of the Russian Mafia and he is asking a favor from Gabriel because he is trusting him. Gabriel had to protect Vasily's unknown daughter from the ones that hunt Vasily and killed the woman that he loved, Eva's mother. So, Gabriel take this responsibility but the things are changing when he feels attracted of her and he can't stay away from her as much as he was trying....
Eva just lost her mother in a car accident and she feels a little bit lost. She was her only parently figure and she loved her very much. She never met her father and she was feeling hatred for him because he abandoned them. His absence took away from Eva a parent and destroyed her mother. That's why she had sworn to stay away from men... She doesn't want to love and to rely in someone so much because that will give him the power to destroy her.
But everything is changing when stepped into her life Gabriel Moore. She just can not resist to him...
Well, i can not tell you more because believe me when i'm saying that the things was very complicated.
They were many vendettas, much chasing, multiple POV's, much history that can not be unfold without reading it!!!
The only thing that i can say is that when Eva found out the truth, the things was more complicated about her and Gabriel, and his brother had sworn to kill the woman that Gabriel someday will fall in love and that day had come...
So they have to watch their backs from multiple things... See??? Complicated.
I really enjoyed that book. It was quick, interesting, full of suspense and hidden secrets...
And all the characters were impressive with one or another way, and believe me they were lots of people...
Except Eva and Gabriel, we were having Vincente, Alec, Maksim, Quan, Vasily, Jak, Caleb, Nika and many, many more...
And except from all this mobster thing, we were having and a MC... Lots of things, guys!!!
You should dive in here... and you will remember me!!!
Oh, God!!!I really loved that book!!!! Yeah!!!
That was hot, hot, hot!!!
And much more things...
Whoa!!! I wasn't expecting it too be soooooo.... good!!!
I adore mobster books and this was not an exception!!!
This is my new favorite series!!!
I love all these wanted men... All of them...
Yep, in the beginning it was a little bit difficult to put them on my mind in right order but now i just love them... They are all of them amazing!!! Even the older one's like Vasily!!! That was amazing!!!
How could you resist them???
They are beautiful, tatooed, nicely dressed, lethal, but at the same time tender, they have high sense of humor and beyond all of the above, they are protective and loyal...
Nope, no woman in this earth can resist to those guys!!!!
But i have to stop talking about all of them and i have to focus in one of them...
Gabriel Moretti.
Gabriel was son of an Italian mafia boss and he was his father's heir as a Don. But after some bad things that happened before 5years, he left his position to the family and stay away from them. His brother Stefano became Don and he is seeking vengeance from Gabriel in the name of love.
Vasily Tarasov is the Don of the Russian Mafia and he is asking a favor from Gabriel because he is trusting him. Gabriel had to protect Vasily's unknown daughter from the ones that hunt Vasily and killed the woman that he loved, Eva's mother. So, Gabriel take this responsibility but the things are changing when he feels attracted of her and he can't stay away from her as much as he was trying....
Eva just lost her mother in a car accident and she feels a little bit lost. She was her only parently figure and she loved her very much. She never met her father and she was feeling hatred for him because he abandoned them. His absence took away from Eva a parent and destroyed her mother. That's why she had sworn to stay away from men... She doesn't want to love and to rely in someone so much because that will give him the power to destroy her.
But everything is changing when stepped into her life Gabriel Moore. She just can not resist to him...
Well, i can not tell you more because believe me when i'm saying that the things was very complicated.
They were many vendettas, much chasing, multiple POV's, much history that can not be unfold without reading it!!!
The only thing that i can say is that when Eva found out the truth, the things was more complicated about her and Gabriel, and his brother had sworn to kill the woman that Gabriel someday will fall in love and that day had come...
So they have to watch their backs from multiple things... See??? Complicated.
I really enjoyed that book. It was quick, interesting, full of suspense and hidden secrets...
And all the characters were impressive with one or another way, and believe me they were lots of people...
Except Eva and Gabriel, we were having Vincente, Alec, Maksim, Quan, Vasily, Jak, Caleb, Nika and many, many more...
And except from all this mobster thing, we were having and a MC... Lots of things, guys!!!
You should dive in here... and you will remember me!!!
Oh, God!!!I really loved that book!!!! Yeah!!!
April 7, 2015
As you all know I'm a mafia slut so of course I was going to love this novel :P
What does a "mafia slut" mean?
Well (besides the obvious :P) in my case it means that I read and like/love (almost!) any mafia romance novel I come across. And in this case I wasn't let down at all by this book.
A Love of Vengeance is Nancy Haviland's debut novel (unles she writes under a different pen name as well) and what a great debut is was :D
Eva is (and doesn't know it) a Russian mafia princes that recently lost her mother to a (presumably) freak car accident.
Gabriel is an Italian mafia prince that left the family business years ago and now, as a favor to Eva's father and his long time friend, he agrees to protect Eva at all costs until her father comes back.
Throw into that equation some hot guy friends (The Reaper, The Playboy, The Bodyguard, The Gentleman, The Romanian, The Soldier and The Biker), a jealous and revengeful brother, a psycho and you have the perfect recipe for a steamy and adventurous romance novel.
What I liked most about this novel was the fact that even if the author mixed a few of well known romance novel ideas (the Italian mob, the Russian Bratva and bikers) and there are a few characters from which perspectives the story is told it's not too much for the reader. She was able to mix the right amount of romance and action to get a beautiful story.
That being said I really hope you enjoy this book and love it as much as I did...and Snow (my little mafia slut triplet) thanks again for a wonderful recommendation :*
What does a "mafia slut" mean?
Well (besides the obvious :P) in my case it means that I read and like/love (almost!) any mafia romance novel I come across. And in this case I wasn't let down at all by this book.
A Love of Vengeance is Nancy Haviland's debut novel (unles she writes under a different pen name as well) and what a great debut is was :D
Eva is (and doesn't know it) a Russian mafia princes that recently lost her mother to a (presumably) freak car accident.
Gabriel is an Italian mafia prince that left the family business years ago and now, as a favor to Eva's father and his long time friend, he agrees to protect Eva at all costs until her father comes back.
Throw into that equation some hot guy friends (The Reaper, The Playboy, The Bodyguard, The Gentleman, The Romanian, The Soldier and The Biker), a jealous and revengeful brother, a psycho and you have the perfect recipe for a steamy and adventurous romance novel.
What I liked most about this novel was the fact that even if the author mixed a few of well known romance novel ideas (the Italian mob, the Russian Bratva and bikers) and there are a few characters from which perspectives the story is told it's not too much for the reader. She was able to mix the right amount of romance and action to get a beautiful story.
That being said I really hope you enjoy this book and love it as much as I did...and Snow (my little mafia slut triplet) thanks again for a wonderful recommendation :*
November 8, 2014
After that blurb, i'm ready to welcome some Gabriel Moretti in my life.
Love a good, bad guy! Review to come.
May 24, 2016
Oh boy, oh boy!!! I've got a feeling that I'm in for a hell of a treat with this series. I never know what to expect when a series is touted as having a hero that is one of the "bad guys." This hero, Gabriel Moretti, is the leader of an Italian crime family, but he's long since stepped down after a major fallout with his brother. Instead, Gabriel runs a legit business with a few men who were involved with his former life. But when one of the top dogs in the Russian underground crime business calls to ask you for help, you really just have to say yes.
Which is how Gabriel finds himself secretly watching after Eva Jacobs, a woman whose appearance at once captures his interest. Watching her from afar soon reveals the content of Eva's character as well, and Gabriel finds himself unwillingly falling for her...this is not a good thing to happen. You don't date the daughter of a powerful crime boss whether or not you've got the same mojo. It creates a sticky web.
Eva is a great character. She's down to earth and normal, aside from the past that she never even knew about. She's under the assumption that her mother's recent death in a car accident was really an accident. And that she has been left with no family. Little does she know that her father is one of the most influential men in the world...with the good AND the bad crowds. Dimply put, Eva's got no experience or know-how when it comes to this life, and even though the drop dead gorgeous Gabriel tries to ease her into accepting her new status, she's overwhelmed.
While I definitely enjoyed Eva and Gabriel's explosive introduction and pseudo-courtship to each other, it was the secondary characters that really made this story. They were the comic relief at times, while other big baddies lent an intensity and realism to the character dynamics that made the entire book just a little more authentic feeling. All the boys are interconnected somehow, and each has their own distinct personality. There is already a new romance brewing between Eva's best friend and an ultimate bad boy friend of Gabriel's. I love when an upcoming romance starts during a current book. It gives the love more time to grow and makes me believe in it.
Gabriel is the kind of possessive hero that I love. He's a good guy that's a bad guy. He's not a huge fan of the lifestyle he was born into, but he's sort of come to accept his lot in life...to an extent. An ongoing feud is what sparks the current controversy, and it brings out the crime lord in him. One thing I'm hesitant to read about in mafia books or MC books is the intense torture and/or cruelty scenes, and I'm happy to say that these were fairly well glossed over here. There's an allusion to some goings-on, but nothing much spelled out.
I'm SO excited about this new author/new series. I only wish I had waited to read it after a few more books were out, because I'd be snatching them up!
Copy provided by the publisher for review
Which is how Gabriel finds himself secretly watching after Eva Jacobs, a woman whose appearance at once captures his interest. Watching her from afar soon reveals the content of Eva's character as well, and Gabriel finds himself unwillingly falling for her...this is not a good thing to happen. You don't date the daughter of a powerful crime boss whether or not you've got the same mojo. It creates a sticky web.
Eva is a great character. She's down to earth and normal, aside from the past that she never even knew about. She's under the assumption that her mother's recent death in a car accident was really an accident. And that she has been left with no family. Little does she know that her father is one of the most influential men in the world...with the good AND the bad crowds. Dimply put, Eva's got no experience or know-how when it comes to this life, and even though the drop dead gorgeous Gabriel tries to ease her into accepting her new status, she's overwhelmed.
While I definitely enjoyed Eva and Gabriel's explosive introduction and pseudo-courtship to each other, it was the secondary characters that really made this story. They were the comic relief at times, while other big baddies lent an intensity and realism to the character dynamics that made the entire book just a little more authentic feeling. All the boys are interconnected somehow, and each has their own distinct personality. There is already a new romance brewing between Eva's best friend and an ultimate bad boy friend of Gabriel's. I love when an upcoming romance starts during a current book. It gives the love more time to grow and makes me believe in it.
Gabriel is the kind of possessive hero that I love. He's a good guy that's a bad guy. He's not a huge fan of the lifestyle he was born into, but he's sort of come to accept his lot in life...to an extent. An ongoing feud is what sparks the current controversy, and it brings out the crime lord in him. One thing I'm hesitant to read about in mafia books or MC books is the intense torture and/or cruelty scenes, and I'm happy to say that these were fairly well glossed over here. There's an allusion to some goings-on, but nothing much spelled out.
I'm SO excited about this new author/new series. I only wish I had waited to read it after a few more books were out, because I'd be snatching them up!
Copy provided by the publisher for review
November 18, 2014
I enjoyed this book, not as much as I would have liked, but I did. I think this book is a great introduction to the series and it promises a lot of different and intriguing stories about the other Wanted Man ♥
I liked the book, the plot and the characters, but I did have various problems with it, so I don't feel like I can rate it higher than three stars. Here is why:
✓First, as an introduction book it is great, because it introduced many interesting characters and provided us with promising storylines in the future. BUT as a book about two people meeting each other and falling in love, it kind of fell short. For one, there were just too many POV and not enough POV from Eva and Gabriel. Second, I felt like the secondary story - suspense and mafia story took bigger part of the plot than the actual romance between Gabriel and Eva. I think if you took out their story without all the mafia problems, there wouldn't be much to read about.
✓Second, the insta love and 'I love you' after a few days, made me roll my eyes a lot. From the moment Gabriel saw her picture he was just smitten, and couldn't think about anything else. Oh please.
✓Third, I really didn't feel the suspense. Nothing in this book was unexpected for me and I easily predicted most of the plot twists. Maybe it was because I have read many similar books or maybe it was something else, but I just didn't feel it. I wanted to...
✓Lastly, I was annoyed with everybody in the story being super gorgeous/stunning/beautiful. Seriously, almost everyone introduced was with supermodel looks, like YOU CAN'T TAKE YOUR EYES OFF OF THEM!
Anyway, I did like the book and I think it is a great debut novel. The dynamics between the gang and the organized crime bosses were awesome. Actually, the whole gang was awesome and I can't wait to learn more about them! I will definitely be reading the next book in the series and I am excited to get more of Vincente! I do recommend this :)
*ARC provided by Montlake Romance via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
I liked the book, the plot and the characters, but I did have various problems with it, so I don't feel like I can rate it higher than three stars. Here is why:
✓First, as an introduction book it is great, because it introduced many interesting characters and provided us with promising storylines in the future. BUT as a book about two people meeting each other and falling in love, it kind of fell short. For one, there were just too many POV and not enough POV from Eva and Gabriel. Second, I felt like the secondary story - suspense and mafia story took bigger part of the plot than the actual romance between Gabriel and Eva. I think if you took out their story without all the mafia problems, there wouldn't be much to read about.
✓Second, the insta love and 'I love you' after a few days, made me roll my eyes a lot. From the moment Gabriel saw her picture he was just smitten, and couldn't think about anything else. Oh please.
✓Third, I really didn't feel the suspense. Nothing in this book was unexpected for me and I easily predicted most of the plot twists. Maybe it was because I have read many similar books or maybe it was something else, but I just didn't feel it. I wanted to...
✓Lastly, I was annoyed with everybody in the story being super gorgeous/stunning/beautiful. Seriously, almost everyone introduced was with supermodel looks, like YOU CAN'T TAKE YOUR EYES OFF OF THEM!
Anyway, I did like the book and I think it is a great debut novel. The dynamics between the gang and the organized crime bosses were awesome. Actually, the whole gang was awesome and I can't wait to learn more about them! I will definitely be reading the next book in the series and I am excited to get more of Vincente! I do recommend this :)
*ARC provided by Montlake Romance via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
December 22, 2023
4.5 Mafia Loving Stars!!
When Gabriel (Moretti) Moore is summoned by his mentor and father figure, Russian mob boss Vasily Tarasov he knows something is up. Gabriel has built his own empire, after breaking ties with "The Family" especially his ruthless older brother and he has no intention of going back to New York to take his place in the family business.
Gabriel is stunned to learn that Vasily has a twenty-four year old daughter and that Vasily has kept her a secret. No one knew about her other than Vasily's most trusted soldier for fear his enemies would use her against him.
Vasily asks Gabriel to keep an eye on Eva and keep her safe while he's in Russia on business. Gabriel wants the stunning Eva Jacobs, he's aware of the line he's crossing but he feels something he has never felt before, he can't stay away nor fight his overwhelming feelings for Eva. As he & Eva get closer, his scornful brother Stefano looks to seek revenge against Gabriel. Eva is in danger and Gabriel will do whatever is necessary to keep her safe, and let me tell you Gabriel is utterly ruthless in his vowel to keep Eva safe!!
We're introduced Eva's lifelong BFF Nika, Nika's MC Biker brother Caleb (a little bit of everything for everyone), and Gabriel's ruthless trusted lieutenant Vincente Romani aka "Reaper" who are the focus of Book #2 The Salvation of Vengeance.
If your a fan of Mobsters (both Russian & Italian) than your in for a treat. I completely enjoyed this book and immediately started The Salvation of Vengeance...which I'm loving!!!
Reread: 12/21/23
When Gabriel (Moretti) Moore is summoned by his mentor and father figure, Russian mob boss Vasily Tarasov he knows something is up. Gabriel has built his own empire, after breaking ties with "The Family" especially his ruthless older brother and he has no intention of going back to New York to take his place in the family business.
Gabriel is stunned to learn that Vasily has a twenty-four year old daughter and that Vasily has kept her a secret. No one knew about her other than Vasily's most trusted soldier for fear his enemies would use her against him.
Vasily asks Gabriel to keep an eye on Eva and keep her safe while he's in Russia on business. Gabriel wants the stunning Eva Jacobs, he's aware of the line he's crossing but he feels something he has never felt before, he can't stay away nor fight his overwhelming feelings for Eva. As he & Eva get closer, his scornful brother Stefano looks to seek revenge against Gabriel. Eva is in danger and Gabriel will do whatever is necessary to keep her safe, and let me tell you Gabriel is utterly ruthless in his vowel to keep Eva safe!!
"She'd better be okay. Otherwise the world was going to see a bloodbath of epic proportions in the organized crime realm.”
"It’s not a secret to anyone but you that I’m in love with you, sweetheart. I’m so goddamn in love with you, it’s . . . Well, at the risk of sounding like a pussy, it’s unsettling and scary as fuck to realize the control you have over me.”
We're introduced Eva's lifelong BFF Nika, Nika's MC Biker brother Caleb (a little bit of everything for everyone), and Gabriel's ruthless trusted lieutenant Vincente Romani aka "Reaper" who are the focus of Book #2 The Salvation of Vengeance.
If your a fan of Mobsters (both Russian & Italian) than your in for a treat. I completely enjoyed this book and immediately started The Salvation of Vengeance...which I'm loving!!!
Reread: 12/21/23
November 7, 2014
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review
A Love of Vengeance is book one in the new series Wanted Men and oh readers, let me just tell you, there are plenty of men you're going to want after reading this. If warring mafia families with mixed in action from some motorcycle club men trip your trigger, then you're going to want to get this book immediately.
Gabriel grew up as the second son to the Moretti family Don but after a major fallout with his older brother Stefano, he skipped town. He was taken under the wing of Vasily, the Pakhan or godfather of the Russian mafia in the United States. Gabriel has tried to go straight but Stefano sporadically makes appearances in his life to remind him that their fight isn't quite over yet. When Vasily comes to Gabriel asking a favor, there is no way he can refuse him. It turns out that Vasily kept hidden a daughter, whose life may now be in danger and until Vasily can do some cleanup work, he only trusts Gabriel to keep her protected. The daughter, Eva, has never met her father let alone knows who he is and with the recent death of her mother, her world is reeling. After weeks of watching Eva, Gabriel has started to develop feelings that could have him wearing some cement shoes. When Eva and Gabriel finally meet, their mutual attraction is combustible but as Eva finds out not only who Gabriel is but learns what her new identity is, will it be sustainable?
Gabriel is a very strong and interesting character; he had the rough upbringing of being raised to be his father's enforcer. He is extremely domineering, forceful, and used to not having to repeat himself while also having an innate sense of fairness. He has gone straight for the most part but still has that one foot in the underground world because he recognizes that for better or worse it is a part of his identity. For being in a story with numerous powerful men, Eva manages to hold her own, most of the time. She meets Gabriel and is instantly attracted and fascinated by him only to find out he has lied to her. Eva has no clue about the new world she is thrown into and while holding onto to Gabriel helps to keep her feet on the ground she also is struggling to completely trust him. Their heavy sexual bond with layer of mistrust creates a fierce push and pull relationship.
The overall story is a mixture of thriller, suspense, and action; imagine Eva and Gabriel sitting in the middle of a swirling tornado of blood feuds, deceit, spies, and dark underground dealings. The cast of characters is enormous and while each one is interesting, it starts to feel like a barrage. As this is the first book in the series, I'm sure the author wanted to get everyone introduced and set up interest for preceding books but, especially in the beginning, it was overwhelming as I was trying to focus on Eva and Gabriel to develop a connection and interest with them. It just takes away from our main couple a bit, however, it also worked as I am certainly looking forward to some of the men of Gabriel and Vasily's crew getting their own story (definitely looking at you Maksim ;). With such a large cast with interwoven story threads, things could have went off the rails quickly but the author managed to connect everything wonderfully and keep the pace up, I was flipping pages at a good speed engrossed with the story.
As far as debut books go, I was highly impressed with this, even with the couple times that I thought Gabriel was a trace juvenile in his thoughts about Eva and the aforementioned slight messiness with dumping a boat load of characters on the reader. The quality of writing has me excited with how good this author could turn out to be with some maturation. Even though at times the outside interference fights to steals the show from Eva and Gabriel, they hold their own. The fervency from this couple will keep you reading late into the night. With mafia and MC themes being so popular right now combined with the good writing and engaging story and characters, this is going to be a in demand series. The second book looks to be about Eva's friend Nika and Gabriel's friend Vincente, both play a decent role in this story, and I will definitely be watching the calendar for it.
A Love of Vengeance is book one in the new series Wanted Men and oh readers, let me just tell you, there are plenty of men you're going to want after reading this. If warring mafia families with mixed in action from some motorcycle club men trip your trigger, then you're going to want to get this book immediately.
Gabriel grew up as the second son to the Moretti family Don but after a major fallout with his older brother Stefano, he skipped town. He was taken under the wing of Vasily, the Pakhan or godfather of the Russian mafia in the United States. Gabriel has tried to go straight but Stefano sporadically makes appearances in his life to remind him that their fight isn't quite over yet. When Vasily comes to Gabriel asking a favor, there is no way he can refuse him. It turns out that Vasily kept hidden a daughter, whose life may now be in danger and until Vasily can do some cleanup work, he only trusts Gabriel to keep her protected. The daughter, Eva, has never met her father let alone knows who he is and with the recent death of her mother, her world is reeling. After weeks of watching Eva, Gabriel has started to develop feelings that could have him wearing some cement shoes. When Eva and Gabriel finally meet, their mutual attraction is combustible but as Eva finds out not only who Gabriel is but learns what her new identity is, will it be sustainable?
Gabriel is a very strong and interesting character; he had the rough upbringing of being raised to be his father's enforcer. He is extremely domineering, forceful, and used to not having to repeat himself while also having an innate sense of fairness. He has gone straight for the most part but still has that one foot in the underground world because he recognizes that for better or worse it is a part of his identity. For being in a story with numerous powerful men, Eva manages to hold her own, most of the time. She meets Gabriel and is instantly attracted and fascinated by him only to find out he has lied to her. Eva has no clue about the new world she is thrown into and while holding onto to Gabriel helps to keep her feet on the ground she also is struggling to completely trust him. Their heavy sexual bond with layer of mistrust creates a fierce push and pull relationship.
The overall story is a mixture of thriller, suspense, and action; imagine Eva and Gabriel sitting in the middle of a swirling tornado of blood feuds, deceit, spies, and dark underground dealings. The cast of characters is enormous and while each one is interesting, it starts to feel like a barrage. As this is the first book in the series, I'm sure the author wanted to get everyone introduced and set up interest for preceding books but, especially in the beginning, it was overwhelming as I was trying to focus on Eva and Gabriel to develop a connection and interest with them. It just takes away from our main couple a bit, however, it also worked as I am certainly looking forward to some of the men of Gabriel and Vasily's crew getting their own story (definitely looking at you Maksim ;). With such a large cast with interwoven story threads, things could have went off the rails quickly but the author managed to connect everything wonderfully and keep the pace up, I was flipping pages at a good speed engrossed with the story.
As far as debut books go, I was highly impressed with this, even with the couple times that I thought Gabriel was a trace juvenile in his thoughts about Eva and the aforementioned slight messiness with dumping a boat load of characters on the reader. The quality of writing has me excited with how good this author could turn out to be with some maturation. Even though at times the outside interference fights to steals the show from Eva and Gabriel, they hold their own. The fervency from this couple will keep you reading late into the night. With mafia and MC themes being so popular right now combined with the good writing and engaging story and characters, this is going to be a in demand series. The second book looks to be about Eva's friend Nika and Gabriel's friend Vincente, both play a decent role in this story, and I will definitely be watching the calendar for it.
June 25, 2015
I enjoyed this one... wasn't as gritty as most mafia romances but still good. Looking forward to the next one.
March 31, 2017
Vasily Tarasov, a Russian Mafia leader gave his trust to Gabriel Moretti in protecting his only daughter, Evangeline Jacobs while he hunts down her mother's murderer. Gabriel assured he'll fulfill his duty and do what it takes to keep her safe from the enemies. Upon seeing her picture, it 's challenging for him to control his feelings. Falling for her isn't a good idea when his brother, Stefano Moretti seeks vendetta against him. Once he knew his association to Eva, she could be the next target.
Eva is a beautiful, innocent, independent and smart woman. Now that her mother's gone, she feels lonely and wonders about the father she never met. When she met Gabriel, a connection sparks between them. He's an enigma and she wants to get to know him more.
Books written in third person can be a hit or miss to me. It took me a while to get into it as nothing much piqued my interest and there are many characters introduced all at once which confused me at times. As for the romance, I wasn't sold by it because it's very insta-love. Gabriel just saw her picture and he wants to stake claim already? Just no. As a hitman, his character didn't stood out for me. Also, the story as a whole lacked suspense and thrill as it has more romance than mafia aspects. I wish there's more action and I want to see more rivalries.
This is an okay book, quite a miss but I'll give this series another chance and crossing my fingers it gets better. I'm curious for the next one because it's Vincente Romani's story. I think he's the only one I find interesting... so far.
Eva is a beautiful, innocent, independent and smart woman. Now that her mother's gone, she feels lonely and wonders about the father she never met. When she met Gabriel, a connection sparks between them. He's an enigma and she wants to get to know him more.
Books written in third person can be a hit or miss to me. It took me a while to get into it as nothing much piqued my interest and there are many characters introduced all at once which confused me at times. As for the romance, I wasn't sold by it because it's very insta-love. Gabriel just saw her picture and he wants to stake claim already? Just no. As a hitman, his character didn't stood out for me. Also, the story as a whole lacked suspense and thrill as it has more romance than mafia aspects. I wish there's more action and I want to see more rivalries.
This is an okay book, quite a miss but I'll give this series another chance and crossing my fingers it gets better. I'm curious for the next one because it's Vincente Romani's story. I think he's the only one I find interesting... so far.
May 20, 2016
After finishing this amazing story the phrase that came to mind immediately was why did I wait so long to read this? So good. Everything about it. From the instant connection between Gabriel and Eva to the action packed suspense I was hanging on every word. I loved all the characters and was mesmerized that this author held an almost magical ability to take the layers of each person and keep adding then uncovering more and more depth. Gabriel was cut from my own dream hero mold. He was possessive, loyal and honorable in a world that chipped away at a man's honor everyday. I adored his Jealousy and I laughed each time he showed it because this tough man just had no control over what Eva made him feel. I really enjoyed how a new romance was uncovered and teased me just enough. I'll be attacking.. One clicking the next immediately.
Note to author.
You prove that romance does not need other women causing drama for the hero.. (too bad it's not bow you really feel after book 3.)This hero though was perfect. Even his past references were not drawn out so that it kept the focus where it belonged on the love story between Eva and Gabe.
Any time I have zero other women drama I simply want to give a standing ovation. **** But then I found out she started added unfaithfulness with other women in book 3. *** and I want to break down and cry.
Absolutely so happy I found this series.
Note to author.
You prove that romance does not need other women causing drama for the hero.. (too bad it's not bow you really feel after book 3.)This hero though was perfect. Even his past references were not drawn out so that it kept the focus where it belonged on the love story between Eva and Gabe.
Any time I have zero other women drama I simply want to give a standing ovation. **** But then I found out she started added unfaithfulness with other women in book 3. *** and I want to break down and cry.
Absolutely so happy I found this series.
July 6, 2016
This book was great. It had what I normally look for in a mafia romance. I usually want a bit more action but I was satisfied with what was offered.
Eva and Gabriel were awesome together. Aside from a little subterfuge on his behalf, their relationship was low on personal drama. I didn't much love Eva though. She drove me a little nuts with her perspective, however, I admired her character's intellect, loyalty and heart. Now Gabriel... I loved him. His character was brilliant, sexy, successful, loyal, fierce, and ultimately deadly. He and his crew absolutely made this story.
The plot was definitely interesting and the momentum was neither fast nor slow. It had more intimacy than sex, mob ties, family, friendship, betrayal, vengeance, and a stab at redemption. It made for a worthwhile read and I recommend it to any lover of mafia romance.
XO
Eva and Gabriel were awesome together. Aside from a little subterfuge on his behalf, their relationship was low on personal drama. I didn't much love Eva though. She drove me a little nuts with her perspective, however, I admired her character's intellect, loyalty and heart. Now Gabriel... I loved him. His character was brilliant, sexy, successful, loyal, fierce, and ultimately deadly. He and his crew absolutely made this story.
The plot was definitely interesting and the momentum was neither fast nor slow. It had more intimacy than sex, mob ties, family, friendship, betrayal, vengeance, and a stab at redemption. It made for a worthwhile read and I recommend it to any lover of mafia romance.
XO
July 10, 2016
3.5 to 4 stars
After the death of her mother Evangeline is alone and feeling the loss since her mother was the only family she had, she's never known her father who left when she was just twelve weeks old, she thinks of him as the sperm donor when she thinks of him at all.
Vasily Tarasov made the hardest decision of his life when he left the love of his life and their daughter to protect them but he's never been far away always watching but now, after her mothers murder he needs to seek revenge but needs to know Eva is protected and safe so he calls Gabriel Moretti and entrusts his daughter's life to him.
Gabriel has problems of his own since his brother Stefano runs the New York mob and they hate each other with a passion, Stefano has vowed to kill any woman Gabriel cares for.
Gabriel is hot, sexy and lethal, Eva is gorgeous, intelligent and innocent and with the exception of one (verging on TSTL) silly moment she's great.
There's a good story running through this and tons and tons and tons of hot powerful men so therefore loads of potential for future books.
It's almost as if the author asked me what I'd like in a book and wrote this for me, or that's what it felt like when I started.
Problem?
There's just so many characters and while I appreciate this is a first in series and the author obviously wanted to introduce them all it's difficult to keep track at times especially since they're referred to by first, second or nick name, depending on who's POV we're getting. It's hard to keep track of who's who and who's what in relation to everyone else that I felt I should have been taking notes to make sure I got it all right.
Plus while I'm a huge fan of dual or multiple POV books the POV here changed without warning or break which didn't help.
There's so much potential here and so much to like, a good editor could really tighten this up and make it a much sharper, cleaner read but I enjoyed it anyway and while I feel 3* is a fair and accurate rating I'm going with my heart here and giving 3.5 to 4* mainly because it ticked so many boxes for me and having so many hot sexy men in one book can't be bad.
May 19, 2016
I listened to this one through my KU membership. Good deal!
Overall pretty entertaining and kept me interested. Fairly tame for a mafia book.
The heroine was not TSTL - thank goodness! A bit naïve at times, but handled the shit thrown at her pretty well.
The hero lived in denial for a long time. That frustrated me a bit. But you could feel his struggle.
My biggest complaint is that I felt I was being told and not shown more often than not. The length of the book could have been reduced by skipping the lengthy internal dialogues.
Really quite safe. Some things might bother some, but no big triggers.
Forgot to mention. This book introduces about a million characters. I found it best to just ignore them. Eventually a few names stuck if they had a big enough role in the book.
Overall pretty entertaining and kept me interested. Fairly tame for a mafia book.
The heroine was not TSTL - thank goodness! A bit naïve at times, but handled the shit thrown at her pretty well.
The hero lived in denial for a long time. That frustrated me a bit. But you could feel his struggle.
My biggest complaint is that I felt I was being told and not shown more often than not. The length of the book could have been reduced by skipping the lengthy internal dialogues.
Really quite safe. Some things might bother some, but no big triggers.
Forgot to mention. This book introduces about a million characters. I found it best to just ignore them. Eventually a few names stuck if they had a big enough role in the book.
February 23, 2015
It was interesting enough to want to read the sequel.
December 17, 2015
4.75 stars!
Gabriel Moretti (aka Gabriel Moore)
Eva Jacobs (aka Evangeline Tarasov)
She was the daughter of a Russian mob boss. but she didn't know it ;)
“I’m terrified of the way I need you. Even after everything that’s happened. Your life is violent and scary as hell.
“I love you,” she said as though it was as simple as that. “So, yes, I would find a way to deal.
He was all coiled strength and danger personified. Fierce and deadly.
“No one will die if you stay by my side. No one will be hurt, if you stay by my side,”
“You’ll stay at my side?” he asked, forcing her to confirm once more.
“Yes,” she said, her voice cracking. “I’m not going anywhere.”
“It’s not a secret to anyone but you that I’m in love with you, sweetheart. I’m so goddamn in love with you, it’s . . . Well, at the risk of sounding like a pussy, it’s unsettling and scary as fuck to realize the control you have over me.”
Placing a finger under her chin, he tilted her head up when she didn’t do so herself and slowly ran the pad of his thumb across her full lower lip, inhaling the erotic honey scent of her deep into his lungs....
after all, what can I say, it was the fastline/action/crime filled drama, a lot of characters, two confronted(but yet connected) mobster families, a psycho is there too, steamy hot sex along the way, anticipation and pre-destined love story...
hmmm...I think I named it all. I had fun reading it.
Gabriel Moretti (aka Gabriel Moore)
Eva Jacobs (aka Evangeline Tarasov)
She was the daughter of a Russian mob boss. but she didn't know it ;)
“I’m terrified of the way I need you. Even after everything that’s happened. Your life is violent and scary as hell.
“I love you,” she said as though it was as simple as that. “So, yes, I would find a way to deal.
He was all coiled strength and danger personified. Fierce and deadly.
“No one will die if you stay by my side. No one will be hurt, if you stay by my side,”
“You’ll stay at my side?” he asked, forcing her to confirm once more.
“Yes,” she said, her voice cracking. “I’m not going anywhere.”
“It’s not a secret to anyone but you that I’m in love with you, sweetheart. I’m so goddamn in love with you, it’s . . . Well, at the risk of sounding like a pussy, it’s unsettling and scary as fuck to realize the control you have over me.”
Placing a finger under her chin, he tilted her head up when she didn’t do so herself and slowly ran the pad of his thumb across her full lower lip, inhaling the erotic honey scent of her deep into his lungs....
after all, what can I say, it was the fastline/action/crime filled drama, a lot of characters, two confronted(but yet connected) mobster families, a psycho is there too, steamy hot sex along the way, anticipation and pre-destined love story...
hmmm...I think I named it all. I had fun reading it.
November 26, 2015
ARC via Netgalley
Really liked this book. I am a big fan of mafia/romance stories and this was such a surprise, because I did not expect it to be so good. It had everything I love. From action, to romance, to secrets... Everything!!!! And all of it was in perfect balance!
Really liked this book. I am a big fan of mafia/romance stories and this was such a surprise, because I did not expect it to be so good. It had everything I love. From action, to romance, to secrets... Everything!!!! And all of it was in perfect balance!
October 5, 2017
Not my typical read, but it was certainly captivating!
November 21, 2016
“It’s not a secret to anyone but you that I’m in love with you, sweetheart. I’m so goddamn in love with you, it’s . . . Well, at the risk of sounding like a pussy, it’s unsettling and scary as fuck to realize the control you have over me.”
I love the idea of anti-heroes, who still has hearts of gold when it comes to their women and those they care about, so I was quite eager to read this book. Unfortunately the romance didn’t really work for me because I had a hard time liking the main characters. Eva was too weak, too quick to forgive and forget her righteous anger, and I had a hard time understanding her actions and thoughts. Gabriel was a bit too OTT at times, with his controlling and bossy ways, but I did like how protective and possessive he was over Eva. My biggest problem was Eva, who was just too weak a character for someone as powerful and colorful as alpha Gabriel.
I really liked the plot with all the different mafia crime bosses, and the brotherhood feeling between all the guys. I especially liked some of the secondary characters, like Eva’s best friend Nika, and dangerous mobster Vincente Romani. I really want to read their book.
This was my first book by this author, and although the romance didn’t work for me, I will definitely be continuing with this series.
October 2, 2015
Sorry to say but A Love of Vengeance was ehhh, alright. I think the biggest drawback was everything was so laid out and sadly predictable. Another thing that got me is the title "A Love of Vengeance" when in reality there really wasn't much proof of it, other than what we were told. Yes crime boss falls in love and his brother was hell bent on making him suffer, but when it came right down to it there wasn't any of that, not really. Guess I had higher expectations because of the summary and the fact its a mafia, cartel story. I'm willing to give the sequel a chance, maybe that will help me to determine whether or not I'll continue on with the series! Maybe you'll feel differently....enjoy!
March 15, 2017
My casting:
Rate: 4/3 stars.
Rate: 4/3 stars.
June 9, 2015
My impression at 20% is complete befuddlement. I'm absolutely loving the story and characters, but I am also finding this to be a daunting and tedious read.
The mob, revenge, romantic connection, danger, etc of the storyline is quite a captivating combination and keeps readers engaged till the very end... And then some;) The MCs are interesting and are written with an effortless aloofness of mystery like an onion being slowly peeled back layer by layer.
Sounds great, right? Well, it is, but it's also very difficult to read. Here are five reasons why:
1. Character confusion
There are SOOOO many secondary and supporting main characters that I'm constantly backtracking to see wtf these people are in connection to each other. There's also the added confusion with characters sometimes being referenced by first name, other times by last name, and yet other times by a nickname. The character line up needs one of those huge family tree graphs on EVERY damn page lol. It's a lot to keep up with in terms of clarity.
In fairness, this is a huge story involving a lot of intertwining players and plot points rotating around each other. Nonetheless confusing, though!
2. Writing Style Lacks Clarity
The writing style has clarity issues. While the voices are great in authenticity and allure, the technical phrasing and grammar the author uses are awkward and create a horrible flow. I'm often rereading entire paragraphs to decipher wtf a character is trying to say exactly. Take the following as an example:
"He'd been in Seattle five years and it still wasn't home. The house he shared with Alek, Masksim, and Vincente in Old Westbury, a village not far from Long Island, was."
Due to sentence structure and too much supporting info between thoughts, the reader has to reread to determine what "was" is referencing. This is the case in most of the author's narrative and dialogue. It results in a lot of rereading for clarity.
3. It's Overwritten
The author has a tendency to descriptively overwrite unimportant details, such as a cab driver (who is of no relevance to the story & never mentioned again) being middle- aged. Seems trivial, yes, but when every detail is explained in every single happening it slows, muddles, and stifles the story. Here's a perfect example:
" He scanned the top page in front of him, which was a short bio. Flipping it over, he checked out the photos of a girl with fiery hair, smooth ivory skin, and green eyes." ... "Closing that file and flipping open the other in his lap, he narrowed his eyes on Eve Jacobs crossing the street in Morningside Heights, her jet hair flowing over her shoulders and down her slender back.
^ There are so many unimportant details that the reader loses track of what the hell the purpose even is by the time we get to the crux of the matter three paragraphs later. Do readers need to know details like top page, front of him, short, closing, in his lap, & Morningside Heights? No! Again, this type of unnecessary detail muddles and stifles the story, especially considering this is already a complex storyline with shitloads of characters and intertwined plot points across two different states.
4. Information Overload
I get that this is likely to be a big series that'll take supporting characters on as MCs for future installments. Therefore, the author wants to reel readers in by making that initial connection with the secondaries in the first book. I get it.. I do, and I like the supporting characters. BUT, there's just information overload here. The MCs in this book have a shitload going on between revenge, conspiracy, budding love, an absentee father showing up, mafia politics, etc... etc... So, it was just too much to have breaks in the MCs story where the author delved into detailed scenes and history for the supporting characters THAT WAS COMPLETELY UNRELATED TO THIS STORYLINE!
5. POV changes
I have zero problem with multiple POVs in a book.... So long as they're clearly defined & separated. This author changed POV in narrative often, and it was done without separation by chapter or any other type of defining. It's jarring to suddenly go from an MC narrating to a secondary character sharing inner thought. Plus, it's highly confusing and yet another reason that I constantly found myself backtracking for clarity.
Okay, Moving On...
" I give you my word that I will honor and respect you as I've never done with another. Please trust me on that, Eva." - Gab
"I'm letting this go because Eva asked me to, but if you ever speak to her like that again, I'll personally deliver you to a hell you've only ever read about. Understand?" -Gab
Yeah, Gab is hot as all hell - a stealthy mix of alpha badass and tender lover with a pinch of refinement. He gets a little too f'ing bossy and all important at times, but he always manages to add some level of tenderness or care to kinda make me say 'oh what the hell.' Screwing Eva before she had all the facts was damn sure selfish, especially when he just told her he'd respect and honor her. Still, most readers will find he's a likable character all around.
Eva is a little tougher character to describe. She's intelligent, not one of this dumb as twit characters, but there are times where she's just seems too placid for the situation. Otherwise, a solid, likable character.
The plot(s) held my interest with a good balance of romance and danger. Not a lot of mystery here, but the author does have a few little surprises. There's a 'happily ever now' for the MCs, but several large factors are still left to be dealt with in the immediate future. And, readers are left with teasers for the storylines of multiple supporting characters.
Bottom Line
I loved the story. I liked the characters. This book hits all the high points that romantic action lovers typically find appealing in a book. The problem is simply HOW the story is told. A complex story like this demands a nuts and bolts writer that keeps it 'simple stupid' without it reading like a grade school book.
My guess is that this author is simply inexperienced and poorly edited. There's a talented and imaginative story creator here that's just in need of technical skills to bring a smooth flow and clarity to the future installments. I'd suggest the author have this book revised and re-edited.
The mob, revenge, romantic connection, danger, etc of the storyline is quite a captivating combination and keeps readers engaged till the very end... And then some;) The MCs are interesting and are written with an effortless aloofness of mystery like an onion being slowly peeled back layer by layer.
Sounds great, right? Well, it is, but it's also very difficult to read. Here are five reasons why:
1. Character confusion
There are SOOOO many secondary and supporting main characters that I'm constantly backtracking to see wtf these people are in connection to each other. There's also the added confusion with characters sometimes being referenced by first name, other times by last name, and yet other times by a nickname. The character line up needs one of those huge family tree graphs on EVERY damn page lol. It's a lot to keep up with in terms of clarity.
In fairness, this is a huge story involving a lot of intertwining players and plot points rotating around each other. Nonetheless confusing, though!
2. Writing Style Lacks Clarity
The writing style has clarity issues. While the voices are great in authenticity and allure, the technical phrasing and grammar the author uses are awkward and create a horrible flow. I'm often rereading entire paragraphs to decipher wtf a character is trying to say exactly. Take the following as an example:
"He'd been in Seattle five years and it still wasn't home. The house he shared with Alek, Masksim, and Vincente in Old Westbury, a village not far from Long Island, was."
Due to sentence structure and too much supporting info between thoughts, the reader has to reread to determine what "was" is referencing. This is the case in most of the author's narrative and dialogue. It results in a lot of rereading for clarity.
3. It's Overwritten
The author has a tendency to descriptively overwrite unimportant details, such as a cab driver (who is of no relevance to the story & never mentioned again) being middle- aged. Seems trivial, yes, but when every detail is explained in every single happening it slows, muddles, and stifles the story. Here's a perfect example:
" He scanned the top page in front of him, which was a short bio. Flipping it over, he checked out the photos of a girl with fiery hair, smooth ivory skin, and green eyes." ... "Closing that file and flipping open the other in his lap, he narrowed his eyes on Eve Jacobs crossing the street in Morningside Heights, her jet hair flowing over her shoulders and down her slender back.
^ There are so many unimportant details that the reader loses track of what the hell the purpose even is by the time we get to the crux of the matter three paragraphs later. Do readers need to know details like top page, front of him, short, closing, in his lap, & Morningside Heights? No! Again, this type of unnecessary detail muddles and stifles the story, especially considering this is already a complex storyline with shitloads of characters and intertwined plot points across two different states.
4. Information Overload
I get that this is likely to be a big series that'll take supporting characters on as MCs for future installments. Therefore, the author wants to reel readers in by making that initial connection with the secondaries in the first book. I get it.. I do, and I like the supporting characters. BUT, there's just information overload here. The MCs in this book have a shitload going on between revenge, conspiracy, budding love, an absentee father showing up, mafia politics, etc... etc... So, it was just too much to have breaks in the MCs story where the author delved into detailed scenes and history for the supporting characters THAT WAS COMPLETELY UNRELATED TO THIS STORYLINE!
5. POV changes
I have zero problem with multiple POVs in a book.... So long as they're clearly defined & separated. This author changed POV in narrative often, and it was done without separation by chapter or any other type of defining. It's jarring to suddenly go from an MC narrating to a secondary character sharing inner thought. Plus, it's highly confusing and yet another reason that I constantly found myself backtracking for clarity.
Okay, Moving On...
" I give you my word that I will honor and respect you as I've never done with another. Please trust me on that, Eva." - Gab
"I'm letting this go because Eva asked me to, but if you ever speak to her like that again, I'll personally deliver you to a hell you've only ever read about. Understand?" -Gab
Yeah, Gab is hot as all hell - a stealthy mix of alpha badass and tender lover with a pinch of refinement. He gets a little too f'ing bossy and all important at times, but he always manages to add some level of tenderness or care to kinda make me say 'oh what the hell.' Screwing Eva before she had all the facts was damn sure selfish, especially when he just told her he'd respect and honor her. Still, most readers will find he's a likable character all around.
Eva is a little tougher character to describe. She's intelligent, not one of this dumb as twit characters, but there are times where she's just seems too placid for the situation. Otherwise, a solid, likable character.
The plot(s) held my interest with a good balance of romance and danger. Not a lot of mystery here, but the author does have a few little surprises. There's a 'happily ever now' for the MCs, but several large factors are still left to be dealt with in the immediate future. And, readers are left with teasers for the storylines of multiple supporting characters.
Bottom Line
I loved the story. I liked the characters. This book hits all the high points that romantic action lovers typically find appealing in a book. The problem is simply HOW the story is told. A complex story like this demands a nuts and bolts writer that keeps it 'simple stupid' without it reading like a grade school book.
My guess is that this author is simply inexperienced and poorly edited. There's a talented and imaginative story creator here that's just in need of technical skills to bring a smooth flow and clarity to the future installments. I'd suggest the author have this book revised and re-edited.
May 31, 2015
When Gabriel Moretti is summoned by his mentor, Russian mafia boss Vasily Tarasov he knows something is up. Gabriel has been busy building his own empire in Washington and after a bitter breakup with his brother, he has no intention of coming back to New York to take his place in the family business. Finding out that Vasily has a daughter no one knew about is shocking, but when Gabriel is asked to keep an eye on her and keep her safe is a whole different matter. Gabriel wants the stunning Eva Jacobs, he knows it crosses a line but he feels something he has never felt before and can't seem to stay away. As his scornful brother looks to seek revenge, Eva is in danger and Gabriel has to do whatever he can to keep her safe.
Explosive and dynamic. Loved every moment of this story because you are not sure how it will end. Eva and Gabriel sizzle as a couple, but she has no idea of his background or of the father she has never met. High praise for Nancy Haviland.
Explosive and dynamic. Loved every moment of this story because you are not sure how it will end. Eva and Gabriel sizzle as a couple, but she has no idea of his background or of the father she has never met. High praise for Nancy Haviland.
Read
November 21, 2014DNF. I'm not feeling this book, lost interest after the insta-lust and just about the way things are moving.
June 20, 2021
Davvero molto carino e scorrevole.
Per chi vuole una lettura poco impegnativa con una bella storia d'amore passionale, e degli uomini potenti, pericolosi e affascinanti.
Ma molto affettuosi e protettivi... è la lettura perfetta.
Non vedo l'ora di leggere la storia di Vincente e Nika 💕
Per chi vuole una lettura poco impegnativa con una bella storia d'amore passionale, e degli uomini potenti, pericolosi e affascinanti.
Ma molto affettuosi e protettivi... è la lettura perfetta.
Non vedo l'ora di leggere la storia di Vincente e Nika 💕
November 3, 2014
Okay where do I begin....I absolutely love this book!!!!
First off I am not one who's ever read books about Mafia or crime families romance. But this book was very, very good and had me hooked from page one.
I'll start off with the plot,which was excellent and had me engaged the whole time. Gabriel(he is incredible!!!), younger brother to Stefano, the Dom of the mafia family.Stefano hates Gabriel and he's going to exact revenge for something he believes Gabriel did to him in the past. Gabriel very handsome and wealthy, started his own business with a partner Alec,(Alec, I want more of hurt Alec who's heart is broken from ending a relationship with a women he loves to protect her) and became very successful.
Evangeline,daughter to Vasily, who is head of a Russian crime group. She's beautiful, smart, sweet and just lost her mother to what she believes was a terrible accident.Shes never met her father but believes he abandon her and her mother. But in reality Vasily protected her and her mother from the dangerous life he leads. And Eva's mothers death wasn't an accident and Vasily needs to exact revenge and keep Eva safe. So he goes to his trusted friend Gabriel (someone he mentored) asking him to watch over Eva and protect her.
This is the overview of the plot and just the beginning of the very beautiful, hot and action packed romance.
Eva and Gabriel are incredible together!!! The chemistry is off the charts and the development of their relationship is so well done it's a joy to read!!!!!!! The secondary characters will grab you just as much as the MC.You'll want a story for each and every one of them (hello, yes I would like to see each of these character receive their own book, starting with Alec story, but know it's Nika and Vincent.
This book takes you into a whole new world with some great characters and a beautiful love story. You will be left very satisfied with a Happy Ever After.
A must read!!!!
Given by NetGalley for and honest review.
First off I am not one who's ever read books about Mafia or crime families romance. But this book was very, very good and had me hooked from page one.
I'll start off with the plot,which was excellent and had me engaged the whole time. Gabriel(he is incredible!!!), younger brother to Stefano, the Dom of the mafia family.Stefano hates Gabriel and he's going to exact revenge for something he believes Gabriel did to him in the past. Gabriel very handsome and wealthy, started his own business with a partner Alec,(Alec, I want more of hurt Alec who's heart is broken from ending a relationship with a women he loves to protect her) and became very successful.
Evangeline,daughter to Vasily, who is head of a Russian crime group. She's beautiful, smart, sweet and just lost her mother to what she believes was a terrible accident.Shes never met her father but believes he abandon her and her mother. But in reality Vasily protected her and her mother from the dangerous life he leads. And Eva's mothers death wasn't an accident and Vasily needs to exact revenge and keep Eva safe. So he goes to his trusted friend Gabriel (someone he mentored) asking him to watch over Eva and protect her.
This is the overview of the plot and just the beginning of the very beautiful, hot and action packed romance.
Eva and Gabriel are incredible together!!! The chemistry is off the charts and the development of their relationship is so well done it's a joy to read!!!!!!! The secondary characters will grab you just as much as the MC.You'll want a story for each and every one of them (hello, yes I would like to see each of these character receive their own book, starting with Alec story, but know it's Nika and Vincent.
This book takes you into a whole new world with some great characters and a beautiful love story. You will be left very satisfied with a Happy Ever After.
A must read!!!!
Given by NetGalley for and honest review.
November 24, 2014
I am on the fence about this one. I am caught between really liking it and at times finding it kind of cliché. I loved the premise of guardian turned admirer, always a good combo. But in this world it’s dangerous for anyone to think you have a weakness. Eva Jacobs is unknowing becoming a weakness to the sexy Gabriel.
Growing up thinking your dad just up and ran out on her and her mother, Eva is oblivious to this world of mafia crime. She doesn’t anticipate finding love and a father in a crazy whirl wind.
It was a good read, but it kind of missed the mark emotionally for me. I was left wanting a bit more than what I got.
ARC via Netgalley/Montlake Romance
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Growing up thinking your dad just up and ran out on her and her mother, Eva is oblivious to this world of mafia crime. She doesn’t anticipate finding love and a father in a crazy whirl wind.
It was a good read, but it kind of missed the mark emotionally for me. I was left wanting a bit more than what I got.
ARC via Netgalley/Montlake Romance
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July 14, 2017
En realidad no tuvo nada nuevo ni innovador, nada que me sorprendiera o me hiciese reír como loca u orillarme a llorar. No, lo sentí tan básico, tan simple, tan típico. Claro, no por eso es malo, pero tampoco es bueno a mi punto de vista.
Leo porque me encanta vivir esas vidas a través de las páginas, algo tan vacío... me estresa. Pero en fin, ésta es la historia de Eva, quien casualmente empieza a tropezarse con el guapo Gabriel, quien resulta ser un mafioso que la protege porque Eva, aunque no lo sabe es la hija de uno de los capos rusos más importantes.
El instalove de ellos fue patético, pero hay personajes secundarios como Alek o Vicente que salvan todo. Por cierto, tengo muchas más ganas de leer el segundo que trata de Vicente y Nika que este.
Leo porque me encanta vivir esas vidas a través de las páginas, algo tan vacío... me estresa. Pero en fin, ésta es la historia de Eva, quien casualmente empieza a tropezarse con el guapo Gabriel, quien resulta ser un mafioso que la protege porque Eva, aunque no lo sabe es la hija de uno de los capos rusos más importantes.
El instalove de ellos fue patético, pero hay personajes secundarios como Alek o Vicente que salvan todo. Por cierto, tengo muchas más ganas de leer el segundo que trata de Vicente y Nika que este.
November 21, 2017
4 Solid Stars
Wow, what a great start to what looks like a promising series. My first read by this author and yes, I will be going back for more. I enjoyed the storyline as well as the characters.
OK, so why only 4 Stars, well for me, there was just TOO much going on, too many characters to keep track of and the backstories seemed to overpower the "romance" and overall storyline of my couple. I wanted MORE time and MORE romance between the two but the story seemed to focus more on the external elements rather than a relationship build up. Nonetheless, I still really liked it ALOT!
PS I fi I had one complaint and I am being anal here BUT I hated hearing about the "3" other past women who were "done away with" lol....... I wanted him to clarify that they didn;t mean anything and who knows maybe they didn't but it was just left "out there" to wonder and I would have liked hat to have been "cleared" up..... I know I am being picky but hey, it's honest!
Wow, what a great start to what looks like a promising series. My first read by this author and yes, I will be going back for more. I enjoyed the storyline as well as the characters.
OK, so why only 4 Stars, well for me, there was just TOO much going on, too many characters to keep track of and the backstories seemed to overpower the "romance" and overall storyline of my couple. I wanted MORE time and MORE romance between the two but the story seemed to focus more on the external elements rather than a relationship build up. Nonetheless, I still really liked it ALOT!
PS I fi I had one complaint and I am being anal here BUT I hated hearing about the "3" other past women who were "done away with" lol....... I wanted him to clarify that they didn;t mean anything and who knows maybe they didn't but it was just left "out there" to wonder and I would have liked hat to have been "cleared" up..... I know I am being picky but hey, it's honest!
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