Smith

The Italian Cartel #9

by Shandi Boyes

In the world of a hacker, computer malfunctions are common, but more times than not, fixable. Regretfully the same can’t be said for humans. One night of betrayal saw my system corrupted with a virus that still gives me hell years later. I thought Ellie Gould was every nerds’ wet dream. She was smart, beautiful, and when she smiled, my system fried. But it turns out Ellie wasn’t looking for a remake of Beauty and the Geek. She was a federal agent doing anything to get her mark, except I wasn’t her target, and neither was my employee who heads the Italian Cartel. I could have overlooked the fact she lied from the moment we met if I hadn’t stumbled onto footage of her leaving the bed of a fellow agent five months into our relationship. Unfaithfulness can’t be overridden, and neither can the glitch Ellie’s betrayal caused. I just need to remind myself of that when her reentrance into my life has me considering a remodel. Every system improves from a revision, but can Ellie and I survive version 1.0? Smith is book ten in the highly anticipated I talian Cartel series. Although it is a standalone, its storyline interweaves with previous books, so you may get lost if you start here. It is about a nerdy guy who fell in love with a prom queen, and the consequences that followed that. * For TWs please visit the author's website.

Genres: Romance, Suspense, Love

342 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 11, 2021

About the author

Shandi Boyes is a USA Today Bestselling Author who was an avid reader for many years before she discovered the love of writing in February 2016. Her first penned novel 'Perception of Life’ is a new adult rockstar romance that will have you sitting on the edge of your seat until the very last word.

In September 2016, her focus shifted to hot alpha men in steamy contemporary reads that sizzle off the pages. Shandi’s novel ‘Enigma of Life’ is an award-winning story on an FBI agent and the subject she was assigned to investigate. Her men are swoon-worthy, devoted, and alpha; and her heroines are strong-willed, determined, and loveable. You should start her stories first thing in the morning, or you may not sleep.

You will laugh and you will cry, but Shandi's characters will stay with you for a lifetime!

Join my newsletter: subscribepage.com/authorshandi

SERIES ORDER:
Perception of Life (Noah and Emily #1)
Reality of Life (conclusion of Noah's story #2)
Fight of Life (Jacob's story - standalone #3)
Player of Life (Nick & Jenny - standalone #4)
Beats of Life (Slater's story - standalone #5)

Enigma:

Enigma of Life (Isaac #1) - ** FREE **
Unraveling an Enigma (Isaac #2)
Enigma: The Mystery Unmasked (Isaac #3)
Enigma: The Final Chapter (conclusion of Isaac's story #4)
Beneath the Secrets (Hugo #1)
Beneath the Sheets (Hugo #2)
Spy Thy Neighbor (Hunter's Story)
The Opposite Effect
I Married a Mob Boss
Second Shot

Bound:

Chains
Links
Bound
Restrained

Russian Mob Chronicles:

Nikolai: A Mafia Prince Romance
Nikolai: Taking Back What's Mine
Nikolai: What's Left of Me

You will laugh and you will cry, but my characters will stay with you forever!

I love writing and reading. They are both my passion. My genre is generally set to new adult and contemporary, with a few twists thrown in.

Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/Author-Shand...

Amazon Author Page:
http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B01D8C13WU

Enjoy reading!

Reviews

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my new favourite of the Italian Cartel series and so much happens, it was only when I fell asleep reading it that I could put it down, then finished it as soon as I woke up. Smith may work for a cartel but he is the sweetest and kindest person and his love for Ellie is so pure and constant. Ellie has been through so much but she never fails to forgive Smith because she knows he is a good person and she loves him as much as he loves her. Rocco is as amusing in this book as he was in his own and much as I love his character, I don’t think I will ever forgive him for what he did to Claudia at the party and Smith’s excusing him doesn’t wash. So much is explained in this book and it was fascinating to see alternate points of view. A truly great read and I loved every minute.

[Barbara Hahn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Smith

The Italian Cartel is Amazing Series!!!!

I’m going to say Wow because this story has heart. Smith is a Sexy Hot 🔥 Geek. He denies his feelings for Ellie in his own mind but it’s always there. What he’s seen isn’t what has happened!!!! Men gahhhh!! Always jumping to conclusions. We learn a lot about Smith.

As the story progresses they end up working together and it’s so fluid. So seamless whilst getting the job done. Ellie is a spitfire which turns Smith on. She takes no crap!!!
Eventually truths are revealed and that’s when things really become interesting! These two together are scorching 🔥🔥🔥
A few other characters are in this story and it blends so well in the web of Shandi’s work. It’s what I love so much. The intricacies of the characters and how they get their stories told and you get the answers your seeking.
I love these HEA!!!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Another 5 Star Definite Must Read!!

[Oma Iep · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just loved Smith. He is so different from even the 'voice' we hear in Dimitri's and Rocco's stories.
The ultimate geek, with morals and integrity so unexpected from one who works for the Mafia.
The history between him and Ellie is heartbreaking, yet the connection between them is sizzling hot, making for an interesting and rich storyline. I love how this also enriches the stories we are already familiar with and gives us another view.
The heartbreak this couple has endured, although so easily avoided if they had just talked. It makes the story very identifiable because lets be honest, isn't that where most of our problems stem from?

This story is everything it promised to be and so much more. It has given Smith not just a voice, but a face and body and personality we can't help but fall in love with. And with Ellie also. The depth of character and empathy makes you want to embrace both of them into your family.

Despite all that, this is part of a Mafia series, so there is plenty of action to keep us riveted.

[Maria (Ri) · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.3 stars

It was great to see things from Smith's eyes as to how he always did things behind the scenes. I enjoyed his relationship with Ellie and how it fit in the timeline. I will admit on this one though, that if I hadn't read the previous books that I would have been lost at all the different stories of Dimitri, Isaac, Rocco, Theresa, and Maddox. Luckily, I've read them so I was able to follow along.

Love this series.

[Tammy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Smith is not my usual type of guy his not a cocky alpha mafia boss however I still loved his storyline. It’s kinda strange to think that when you read Dimitri story you think his the only main character. Then you start to read all the side characters stories and find out they have just as much going on in their life. Yet they stay and help not for the money or out of fear but for loyalty. Dimitri is not only their boss his family they are all family and if you haven’t yet seen it in other books (I have always seen it) you will most definitely know and understand how much by the end of Smith book

I highly recommend reading this story. Smith is a standalone I do suggest to read the full series

[A · Rating 2.5 out of 5]

SAFETY INFO
Both are celibate during separation
Miscommunication
Mmc believes fmc cheated on him and refuses to listen to her even knowing she doesn’t remember what happened Last night ( indication she was drugged )
But still went to her when she said she lost their baby ( believing it’s of another man not his ) and makes sure of baby’s burial and even has a pendant of the date the baby died and wears it all the time
Protects her even when he believes she cheated on him
They both protect each other
It’s just that the fmc lacked a spine , she was an agent really good combat skills she even brought dimitri to his knees , but blames herself for everything that wrong between them but it’s mostly mmc fault for not staying with her or giving her a chance to explain
The book was a bit boring
Too many backstories

[Dawnmarie Burke · Rating 5 out of 5]

We get another fantastic story in the Italian Cartel series featuring Smith and Ellie's story. We get to see things from Smith's perspective how he does things behind the scenes. Smith and Ellie were perfect together there's nothing that he won't do his love and devotion know no limit. We get to see how our favorite Cartel hacker nerd fell in love with an FBI agent and how they were torn apart. We also get some clarity on some of the dealings from the characters in the previous books and series which is always great. You really need to read about everyone's favorite mysterious nerdy Cartel hacker this book was wonderful I would definitely recommend reading it.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jean Dewsbury · Rating 5 out of 5]

Smith and Ellie's storyline will leave you loving the mysterious nerd so much more. His skills his devotion and protection of Ellie knows no bounds he won't go tofor her. Even if it brings him heartbreak along the way.
The Italian Cartel series is my favourite the way the characters are interwoven throughout it truly a statement to the brilliance of this author. Even if you haven't read every prior series, you will be able to pick up the characters and their heartbreak along the way. I love reading more about the side characters development along the way. Always keeping you captivated with their lives.
A highly recommended read.

[Anne Young-Cronister · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story was awesome!! Another great addition to the Italian Cartel series. Hang on to your heart because this book comes with a lot of the feels,
Laughter, suspense, regrets and misunderstandings abound. Smith and Ellie are a great team! I was held hostage once I started reading this new story. I couldn’t put it down. Shandi ‘s characters seem to jump off the page and into the real world. All the heartaches are worth it in the end. The story will tear you apart only to put you back together in the end. I want so much more of these characters. Hoping Preacher gets his story. Will someone shoot Theresa?😂😂

I reviewed an advanced copy of this book

[Susana Sousa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved!

Smith is the 9th installment in the Italian Cartel series and must be read following the other books for a better comprehension of the plot and characters background.
Smith is the sweetest man ever, even though he works for a Cartel and is involved in the criminal world and his love for Ellie is there, palpable and real. His problem is to jump to conclusions without giving chance or thought.
This is another great narrative in this collection, lots of twists and turns, questions answered, problems solved and the utmost HEA!
Loved Smith and how happy this book made me feel!

[Bernie · Rating 4 out of 5]

There lot in this book and Shandi Boyes had delivered more good reading. Smith is a hacker, a geek mafia family member who, whilst not in the forefront upholds the family values. Ella is FBI agent, committed to her job and there is a past history between them.
Will her coming back into his life knock him off kilter and can the past really be forgotten or forgiven. Only time will tell.
There are many facets to the series and a lot of references to previous books so it is worthy of noting this when reading.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Rowena · Rating 4 out of 5]

Action pack overload!

Book 10 in the Italian Cartel series and it’s packed with action overload. This is mainly about Smith, a hacker for the mafia and Ellie a federal agent. They have a history that ended with heartbreak and when they once again come face to face, the wounds open up to reveal secrets and twist that will keep you at the edge of your seat. When they think they get an answer more surprises are revealed, but in the end will they get the answers that will heal their heartbreak? I loved their journey of finding their forever, it was dark, intense, and so hot.

[Adalle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Magnificently Wonderful

This book is totally magnificent. Heck the whole series is absolutely hot and riveting.
Excitement and adventure from start to finish. Never a dull moment, in this cartel.
Smith’s and Ellie’s chemistry are quintessentially the true meaning of combustible.

I’m such a fan of this Cartel and this Author. I’m looking forward to seeing what’s going to happen next.

Any opinions expressed within this review are solely and uniquely made by me and I am happily leaving this review. I also voluntarily received an advanced copy of this book via bsprout.

[Catherine · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thriller, not romance

If you’re looking for a spicy mafia romance, this isn’t it. It’s a mafia thriller with a thread of romance and a little bit of spice thrown in for good measure. But as a thriller, it falls short for me. Far too many twists and turns, so much that the story gets completely lost among the trees. And as usual for this author, terrible copy editing.

All that said, if you read the rest of her related series (Enigma, Russian Mob, and the rest of the Italian Cartel series), this does tie up some loose ends from those stories.

[McKayla Fontenot · Rating 5 out of 5]

A nerd and a prom queen, does it sound cliche? Sure it does but this latest installment in the Italian Cartel series is anything but cliche!! It’s action packed and will keep you wanting more. The way Shandi intertwines her stories and characters is phenomenal and it all blends perfectly. Without giving away any spoilers, just know that this book is a must read and I 10/10 recommend to everyone!!!

[Theresa Doherty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Smith may be a nerd, but he's a nerd who knows what he's doing at all times, well until Ellie storms back into his life. Secrets and truths are always hard to come to terms with. When everything starts to unravel you see the strength, loyalty, and love Smith has for Ellie and his "family" the knocks these two have taken have been so traumatic that even though Smith works his magic behind the scenes he is the hero always. ( everyone needs a Smith) I voluntarily reviewed this book.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

What do you get when you cross a nerd with a prom queen? A scorching off-the-charts encounter where you would kill to be a fly on the wall. These two have such chemistry you could feel it coming off the pages. I have not read all the books in this series, but OMG, I was able to keep up with the story, and it makes me want to read them all.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[lf · Rating 5 out of 5]

Smith may be a nerdy but he is one smexy hot one!!!

Smith is the tenth book in The Italian Cartel series and it is another fabulous addition to it. This story has it all and in a well blended and very tasty way. The book is well written, has wonderful characters and so many feels, and lets not even start on the sizzling smexy.

I received a copy of this book and am leaving my honest review. My opinions are all my own.

[Rhonda Howell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Smith is a smoking hot read. I mean you have a sexy Nerd who happens to be a hacker and a bombshell of an FBI agent who smolder. But when said agent steps out on our infamous hacker it cannot be forgiven or can it? She returns back into his life will he be able to forgive and move on? Exciting and entertaining story that will keep you entertained and guessing till the end.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sandra R. Valdez · Rating 5 out of 5]

No, he didn't...

I didn't see that one coming. Why did it all seem so familiar? That still has me going.. hummm. Sorry if just a geek. But, a fine geek. When luv gets away from him, because he didn't trust his woman. Now... when they happen to see each other again. They start where they left off. Now forgiveness has to take over. A great read. But, you have to start at the beginning. Let's go...

[Ashley O · Rating 4 out of 5]

book 10

I read “I married a mob boss” then Nikolai’s series then this series with dimi and this is the last book. It’s a perfect way to end the series. I love how Shandi covers the same story from new angles and the character development. I loved smith in the other book and his character just got better in this book. I do wish there was a chapter on their wedding and honeymoon but at least it’s a HEA.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Ellie and Smith are smoking hot together. However, their history is heartbreakingly realistic. It makes you want to just reach out and hug them. It gives the book that down to earth feel that almost everyone can relate to. The chemistry between them could melt the sheets and boy does it! The love between them transcends the many obstacles they face.

[Mandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holy moly.....this is such an explosive read. Fast paced and full of adrenaline rushes like you are in the actual pages. It was absolutely thrilling to be behind the scenes where we always knew Smith was but to be there? INCREDIBLE. Sexy Aussie and fiesty FBI meet and sparks ignite like fireworks. Loved this and love Smith. ❤

[Jenni · Rating 5 out of 5]

Smith isnt your typical mafia man, he's a hacker, geeky but will do anything for his family, When FBI agent Ellie comes back into his life it send him for a spin, will the truth reveal more secrets? Can he overcome the heartache of the past? Well written heartbreaking and warming steamy and geeky packed!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Aimee · Rating 3 out of 5]

Smith is the nerdy/mafia guy of my DREAMS!! Smith and Ellie are a classic meant to be, lies and miscommunication interfears but they find their way back couple.
But with Smith in the mafia and Ellie in the FBI they are going to struggle.

I enjoyed book, i yelled at it a bit but overall a good easy read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[C bond · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good book

This was a good read. But I more than likely would have benefited more had I read the series from the beginning, instead of starting with this book. That being said Smith and Ellie were good together once they got over of the hurdles in front of them and behind.

[Kathleen Bradbury (Bulfon) · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I started reading this story, I could not put it down. I read the book in one day. This author is an awesome writer. I cannot wait to read more of their books. Keep up the great work. You should definitely read this book.

[Maja · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the story about Smith and Ellie. The story pulled me in from the start and held my interest until the end. This author never disappoints me.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Ellen Mills · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fantastic story.
Am loving reading this series each book just as good as the others. However, Smith & Ellie's story has me struggling yo put it down it was hot, twists, emotional.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can forgiveness happen

Can betrayal be forgiven. After loving someone and finding your girlfriend had left another man's room, can you forgive her. Ears later the hurt is still there. Can they figure out the truth. Can they rekindle their life.