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Strike to the Heart #1.5
As Silent as the Night
He can procure anything, except his heart’s deepest wish. She might hold the key, if she’s not discovered first.
Chicago, 1933―Lucia Critelli will do anything for her ailing grandfather, including stand in a breadline to have enough food to make him a St. Nicholas Day meal. When she catches the eye of a goon who threatens her grandfather, she discovers the end of Prohibition doesn’t mean the end of the mafia’s criminal activity.
Retired Marine Scout Giosue “Gio” Vella can find anything, especially if it helps a fellow Italian immigrant, so he has no doubt he can locate his neighbor’s granddaughter, who has gone missing from a local church. Keeping her safe is another matter. Especially when he chooses to hide out with his Marine buddy in Eagle, Wisconsin, the site of a barely-held truce among striking dairy farmers.
Will Christmas bring the miracle they all need or will Gio discover there are some things even he can’t find, particularly when he stumbles upon the most elusive gift of all: love.
As Silent as the Night is the Christmas novella to To Stand in the Breach and A Strike to the Heart.
Chicago, 1933―Lucia Critelli will do anything for her ailing grandfather, including stand in a breadline to have enough food to make him a St. Nicholas Day meal. When she catches the eye of a goon who threatens her grandfather, she discovers the end of Prohibition doesn’t mean the end of the mafia’s criminal activity.
Retired Marine Scout Giosue “Gio” Vella can find anything, especially if it helps a fellow Italian immigrant, so he has no doubt he can locate his neighbor’s granddaughter, who has gone missing from a local church. Keeping her safe is another matter. Especially when he chooses to hide out with his Marine buddy in Eagle, Wisconsin, the site of a barely-held truce among striking dairy farmers.
Will Christmas bring the miracle they all need or will Gio discover there are some things even he can’t find, particularly when he stumbles upon the most elusive gift of all: love.
As Silent as the Night is the Christmas novella to To Stand in the Breach and A Strike to the Heart.
155 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 1, 2022
20 people are currently reading
154 people want to read
About the author
Danielle Grandinetti
27 books617 followersDanielle Grandinetti writes both historical romantic suspense and contemporary sweet romance. She is an avid reader and her writing has won the University of Northwestern Distinguished Faith in Writing Award. Originally from the Chicagoland area, she now lives along Lake Michigan’s Wisconsin shoreline with her husband and their two young sons. Find her online at daniellegrandinetti.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
August 27, 2022
A Christmas Novella set in Chicago and Wisconsin sees us visiting Miles and Lily, Joey and Katy from Ms. Grandinetti’s previous books. This time we meet Gio and Lucia in Chicago. Gio has a generous heart and is delivering food to people suffering in the time just after prohibition has been repealed. Lucia is in danger, so Gio spirits her away to Wisconsin where she meets his friends.
Based on a true event of a mob boss who is at odds with Al Capone, this is a thrilling story that shows some of the culture of 1933.
Lucia has led a somewhat sheltered life but now needs to flee from mobsters. She is a very devout girl and knows God will keep her safe. Gio balances on a thin line between his law enforcement family and the mobsters that rule Chicago. He only wants to serve hurting people. When he helps Lucia, feelings start to grow for both of them.
This was a sweet romance with some danger to keep it interesting.
* I received a complimentary copy of this ebook from the publisher through Celebrate Lit. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
Based on a true event of a mob boss who is at odds with Al Capone, this is a thrilling story that shows some of the culture of 1933.
Lucia has led a somewhat sheltered life but now needs to flee from mobsters. She is a very devout girl and knows God will keep her safe. Gio balances on a thin line between his law enforcement family and the mobsters that rule Chicago. He only wants to serve hurting people. When he helps Lucia, feelings start to grow for both of them.
This was a sweet romance with some danger to keep it interesting.
* I received a complimentary copy of this ebook from the publisher through Celebrate Lit. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
September 5, 2022
A wonderful heartwarming addition to the series just in time for Christmas.
When Lucia Critelli is taken by the mafia, Gio Vella must use his head and his connections to keep her safe, but he finds that his heart is also in danger.
I loved returning to the familiar faces from the previous books, like Katie, Joey, Miles, Lily and more, catching up with them as well as how they made Lucia feel welcome. This novella could probably be read as a standalone if the reader desired.
Overall, a quick read just in time for Christmas, with likeable characters that brought a smile to my face. I loved the Christmas theme, elements of suspense, and that Gio get's his own story. A wonderful companion to the rest of the series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
When Lucia Critelli is taken by the mafia, Gio Vella must use his head and his connections to keep her safe, but he finds that his heart is also in danger.
I loved returning to the familiar faces from the previous books, like Katie, Joey, Miles, Lily and more, catching up with them as well as how they made Lucia feel welcome. This novella could probably be read as a standalone if the reader desired.
Overall, a quick read just in time for Christmas, with likeable characters that brought a smile to my face. I loved the Christmas theme, elements of suspense, and that Gio get's his own story. A wonderful companion to the rest of the series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
June 13, 2025
Loved this read! Great characters and a captivating storyline.
September 11, 2022
“I find things, Mamma.” But can Gio find what’s really in his heart and reveal it before the opportunity is past?
Danielle Grandinetti starts out her third novella, As Silent as the Night, in The Strike to the Heart series, with a bang. She wastes no time in setting the stage for the romantic interest and the suspense. Without gore, we are introduced to the post-prohibition world of some of the kingpins of Chicago mobs and their machinations. And, as usual, Grandinetti creates characters you absolutely love because of their big hearts.
Enter Gio, whose story I have been eagerly awaiting. An Italian immigrant, he learns to compromise successfully with both sides of mob gangs in Chicago, so he can feed and care for his fellow immigrants. Gio has a heart of gold, plus he is street-wise, but he has one problem. He can’t allow himself to get close to the one person, Lucia, he is really coming to care for.
Lucia finds herself in danger from the mob. While Gio offers to keep her safe, he can’t protect her heart. Gio’s inability to share his heart and past lead to trust and safety issues for Lucia.
Grandinetti brings in some issues that are as true today as they were then. “…being an American-born Italian left her feeling as if she belonged in neither world, Italian nor American.” This is still true today for anyone who is recognized as part one heritage, and part another. Even in these “tolerant days” both groups refuse to admit acceptance of someone less than their ideal of perfection. How terribly sad and isolating!!
With the sprinkling of Italian words, culture, and close, warm family ties, plus humor at some pretty tense points, and old friends from the first two books, you will be mesmerized by this Christmas romantic suspense.
While this can be read as a stand alone, I highly recommend reading the books in order:
1) To Stand in the Breach
2)A Strike to the Heart
3)As Silent as the Night
I am a launch team member for this book. I received a copy from the author and Celebrate Lit, and bought my own ebook plus paperback. All opinions are my own.
Danielle Grandinetti starts out her third novella, As Silent as the Night, in The Strike to the Heart series, with a bang. She wastes no time in setting the stage for the romantic interest and the suspense. Without gore, we are introduced to the post-prohibition world of some of the kingpins of Chicago mobs and their machinations. And, as usual, Grandinetti creates characters you absolutely love because of their big hearts.
Enter Gio, whose story I have been eagerly awaiting. An Italian immigrant, he learns to compromise successfully with both sides of mob gangs in Chicago, so he can feed and care for his fellow immigrants. Gio has a heart of gold, plus he is street-wise, but he has one problem. He can’t allow himself to get close to the one person, Lucia, he is really coming to care for.
Lucia finds herself in danger from the mob. While Gio offers to keep her safe, he can’t protect her heart. Gio’s inability to share his heart and past lead to trust and safety issues for Lucia.
Grandinetti brings in some issues that are as true today as they were then. “…being an American-born Italian left her feeling as if she belonged in neither world, Italian nor American.” This is still true today for anyone who is recognized as part one heritage, and part another. Even in these “tolerant days” both groups refuse to admit acceptance of someone less than their ideal of perfection. How terribly sad and isolating!!
With the sprinkling of Italian words, culture, and close, warm family ties, plus humor at some pretty tense points, and old friends from the first two books, you will be mesmerized by this Christmas romantic suspense.
While this can be read as a stand alone, I highly recommend reading the books in order:
1) To Stand in the Breach
2)A Strike to the Heart
3)As Silent as the Night
I am a launch team member for this book. I received a copy from the author and Celebrate Lit, and bought my own ebook plus paperback. All opinions are my own.
October 20, 2022
What a wonderful story. I was surrounded by the 1933 era. The time of the mob, mobsters, and henchmen but also good guys made of gold, just like “Gio”. This book issues things that are still going on today which is why you should always be aware of your surroundings and listen to your gut. This book brought forth fear, worry, stress, friendship, hardship, stubbornness, hope, care, and love. I never knew what was going to happen next and loved the book throughout the entire story. This book was the first book I’ve read by the very talented author, Danielle Grandinetti, and won’t be the last. I also loved that even through all the suspense this story also brought me straight to Christmas.
I received a complimentary copy of this book for my honest thoughts and opinion and I enjoyed it completely.
I received a complimentary copy of this book for my honest thoughts and opinion and I enjoyed it completely.
October 12, 2022
Grandinetti packs so much into this novella. Great characters. Love. Italian dialogue, which I could not get enough of I might add. Fun secondary characters. Suspense. You truly feel like it's a full novel by the time you reach the end, except for the shortened amount of time it took you to read it!
I have really enjoyed reading this series as a whole, and As Silent As the Night is a welcome addition. Lucia and Gio are such a sweet couple, which I know sounds odd considering their circumstances, but truly they were. I loved seeing familiar names and faces as well, bringing the series all together. I don't know where Grandinetti has been hiding these stories all this time, but I'm ready for more!
I highly recommend this short read just in the time for the holidays. I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I have really enjoyed reading this series as a whole, and As Silent As the Night is a welcome addition. Lucia and Gio are such a sweet couple, which I know sounds odd considering their circumstances, but truly they were. I loved seeing familiar names and faces as well, bringing the series all together. I don't know where Grandinetti has been hiding these stories all this time, but I'm ready for more!
I highly recommend this short read just in the time for the holidays. I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 1, 2022
As Silent as the Night is part of Danielle Grandinetti’s Strike to the Heart series. This is the first book I have read by this author but instantly became a fan. I really enjoyed this beautifully written story set during the Christmas season in the 1930s of Chicago. I loved getting to know Lucia and Gio. With just around one hundred fifty pages, it was easily read in one sitting. It was great!
Readers who enjoy reading clean romantic fiction centered around the most magical time of the year will want to read As Silent as the Night. I am giving it five stars. I will be looking for others books from the Strike to the Heart series.
I received a digital copy of As Silent as the Night from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
Readers who enjoy reading clean romantic fiction centered around the most magical time of the year will want to read As Silent as the Night. I am giving it five stars. I will be looking for others books from the Strike to the Heart series.
I received a digital copy of As Silent as the Night from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
September 14, 2022
"He'd been a fool and wouldn't repay her forgiveness by walking away. he tugged her to a stop and put the St. Christopher back into her hand for the second time that night. "Keep this safe for me?"
She looked at him with wide eyes, and he knew she grasped his double meaning. He wasn't just giving her the medallion. He was placing his bruised heart in her hands."
Lucia just wants to continue living her life and spending time with her Grandfather. When her life is put at risk by a dangerous man, she agrees to leave town for awhile. How can the danger be eliminated, so she can go back to her former life? For me, this was a good novella. I think I would have enjoyed it even more as a novella. I wish that more the plot was developed as I almost felt like I needed more history or connection between the main characters to help make their story seem even more believable.
What I really enjoyed about this book is the Italian aspects. Certain Christmas traditions are mentioned. I also liked that Italian was a part of the storyline as well as other parts of what life would have been like for Italian Americans of the 1920's. In the author's note, she shares how the book is connected to her own life. To reflect your own heritage makes for an even better story.
This book is a part of the "Strike the Heart" series. The characters definitely overlap. I think this book is easier to follow and appreciate if the other two books are read first.
I enjoyed this book. I was provided a review copy of this book. All opinions are my own. I wanted to review the book.
She looked at him with wide eyes, and he knew she grasped his double meaning. He wasn't just giving her the medallion. He was placing his bruised heart in her hands."
Lucia just wants to continue living her life and spending time with her Grandfather. When her life is put at risk by a dangerous man, she agrees to leave town for awhile. How can the danger be eliminated, so she can go back to her former life? For me, this was a good novella. I think I would have enjoyed it even more as a novella. I wish that more the plot was developed as I almost felt like I needed more history or connection between the main characters to help make their story seem even more believable.
What I really enjoyed about this book is the Italian aspects. Certain Christmas traditions are mentioned. I also liked that Italian was a part of the storyline as well as other parts of what life would have been like for Italian Americans of the 1920's. In the author's note, she shares how the book is connected to her own life. To reflect your own heritage makes for an even better story.
This book is a part of the "Strike the Heart" series. The characters definitely overlap. I think this book is easier to follow and appreciate if the other two books are read first.
I enjoyed this book. I was provided a review copy of this book. All opinions are my own. I wanted to review the book.
September 2, 2022
Riveting from the first scene, Silent as the Night offers a unique, edge-of-your-seat Christmas read. Enter 1930's Chicago where Lucia needs to escape the clutches of a mafia thug and meet Gio, the man who will risk all to find her. Add to that, heart-stopping moments of a different kind, and you're left with a beautiful and heart-wrenching romance.
Danielle Grandinetti weaves a tale of self-denial juxtaposed with greed, mirroring the same elements in the nativity story that Lucia and her new Wisconsin friends put on.
A beautiful, gripping, and romantically suspenseful Christmas story you wouldn't be able to put down if you tried (you won't try).
Danielle Grandinetti weaves a tale of self-denial juxtaposed with greed, mirroring the same elements in the nativity story that Lucia and her new Wisconsin friends put on.
A beautiful, gripping, and romantically suspenseful Christmas story you wouldn't be able to put down if you tried (you won't try).
August 28, 2022
This fabulous suspense filled, action packed, romantic story set in Chicago and Wisconsin, during December 1933, follows Gio and Lucia, two Italian-Americans striving to survive the Great Depression and gangster culture.
The writing is slightly different from this author’s other stories probably due to the Italian slant and expressions used. The historical aspect of poverty, people trafficking and providing of resources like breadlines or soup kitchens via gangsters in prison was eye opening!
Thoroughly enjoyed the various side characters that the reader has met previously but as I hadn’t read the previous book A Strike to the Heart, I felt I was missing some ‘in jokes’ given by those characters so would recommend reading the series in order to get the full experience!
Appreciated that God was mentioned often and the King James Version (KJV) was used throughout - thank you!
Received this as an Advanced Reader Copy and this is my own opinion.
The writing is slightly different from this author’s other stories probably due to the Italian slant and expressions used. The historical aspect of poverty, people trafficking and providing of resources like breadlines or soup kitchens via gangsters in prison was eye opening!
Thoroughly enjoyed the various side characters that the reader has met previously but as I hadn’t read the previous book A Strike to the Heart, I felt I was missing some ‘in jokes’ given by those characters so would recommend reading the series in order to get the full experience!
Appreciated that God was mentioned often and the King James Version (KJV) was used throughout - thank you!
Received this as an Advanced Reader Copy and this is my own opinion.
August 22, 2022
This is the first I’ve read by this author and oh my was I thrilled to have been afforded the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book!
An Italian-American story set in an era when mobsters ruled by fear, Gio does all he can to help those in need. When he finds out Lucia, the woman he fears to love is taken, he must keep his feelings in check to do what he can to save her. Will he succeed?
The author did a beautiful job touching on the difficult subject of human trafficking with sensitivity and thoughtfulness.
Truly a beautiful story of walking through fear and putting others first.
An Italian-American story set in an era when mobsters ruled by fear, Gio does all he can to help those in need. When he finds out Lucia, the woman he fears to love is taken, he must keep his feelings in check to do what he can to save her. Will he succeed?
The author did a beautiful job touching on the difficult subject of human trafficking with sensitivity and thoughtfulness.
Truly a beautiful story of walking through fear and putting others first.
September 13, 2022
The opening pages gives us an insight into what we are about to engage in. I remember the old movies where Tommy guns were used in heists. The fear in people were evident as the mob seemed to run the city. Thinking that Ice would get away with his extra assignment that fateful day was his biggest mistake. The author quickly grabbed my attention and I was transported back to Chicago, December , 1933.
Lucia is determined to keep her grandfather safe. Standing in long lines to get a loaf of bread, she wants to bring it home to make her grandfather happy. I could feel the tension in the air as the mob seemed to be running everything. I held my breath as Lucia found herself in danger. Grabbed off the street to be used for criminal acts, she fears if she doesn’t do what she is told, her grandfather will be killed. The author paints a picture of desperation on the women who have been gathered up.
Gio right away is a man with determination to help others. He has been known to rescue those who are targeted by the mob. I adored him when he comes to Lucia’s aide. Now he needs to convince her to leave the city for her safety as well as her grandfather’s. Gio is asking a lot from her, but she will need to trust him if she is going to survive. When they arrive in Eagle, Wisconsin the welcoming is not as warm as he had hoped. I can’t blame his family for being upset. After all Gio has brought a woman that the mob wants. How are they going to keep everyone safe?
The author examines the effect prohibition has had and the after effects of it being overturned. Many people benefitted from selling alcohol illegally. Now that things have changed profits are dwindling. The chaos seems to be trickling down as the mob is using young women to be messengers. The question is why was Lucia singled out? The danger increases for everyone around Lucia as someone wants her back. I loved how the author draws us to the fact that greed will cause chaos. There is so much going on that I sat on the edge of my seat waiting to see if Gio and his family would be able to keep Lucia safe.
The story is filled with faith, danger, compassion and hope. I liked how the author develops Lucia and Gio’s relationship slowly. Gio is afraid of hurting Lucia but his feelings run deep for her. Lucia feels the same way toward Gio but something stops her from giving her heart to him. “Relationships only survive because of communication.”
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
Lucia is determined to keep her grandfather safe. Standing in long lines to get a loaf of bread, she wants to bring it home to make her grandfather happy. I could feel the tension in the air as the mob seemed to be running everything. I held my breath as Lucia found herself in danger. Grabbed off the street to be used for criminal acts, she fears if she doesn’t do what she is told, her grandfather will be killed. The author paints a picture of desperation on the women who have been gathered up.
Gio right away is a man with determination to help others. He has been known to rescue those who are targeted by the mob. I adored him when he comes to Lucia’s aide. Now he needs to convince her to leave the city for her safety as well as her grandfather’s. Gio is asking a lot from her, but she will need to trust him if she is going to survive. When they arrive in Eagle, Wisconsin the welcoming is not as warm as he had hoped. I can’t blame his family for being upset. After all Gio has brought a woman that the mob wants. How are they going to keep everyone safe?
The author examines the effect prohibition has had and the after effects of it being overturned. Many people benefitted from selling alcohol illegally. Now that things have changed profits are dwindling. The chaos seems to be trickling down as the mob is using young women to be messengers. The question is why was Lucia singled out? The danger increases for everyone around Lucia as someone wants her back. I loved how the author draws us to the fact that greed will cause chaos. There is so much going on that I sat on the edge of my seat waiting to see if Gio and his family would be able to keep Lucia safe.
The story is filled with faith, danger, compassion and hope. I liked how the author develops Lucia and Gio’s relationship slowly. Gio is afraid of hurting Lucia but his feelings run deep for her. Lucia feels the same way toward Gio but something stops her from giving her heart to him. “Relationships only survive because of communication.”
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
September 22, 2022
As Silent as the Night is written by Danielle Grandinetti. This book is part of a series, but can be read as a stand alone. I have read the entire series, and have enjoyed it very much. The author has a way of bringing the past to life, and touching on real historical events. This book is set in 1933 in Chicago. I felt that the author did a great job staying historically accurate. There is action, suspense, mystery and of course romance. Travel back into time with this story to when mobsters were around and Prohibition ends.
Gio is the neighbor to Lucia. He has a great respect for her grandfather. Gio is one that loves to help out all the neighbors. He delivers food to the food lines where Lucia is waiting one day for her portion. There is a no good mobster, Emberto that has his eye on Lucia. He takes her out of the food line, thankfully Gio helps her escape - but now Emberto will not stop until he finds Lucia, so Gio takes her to Eagle, Wisconsin.
This has been the primary setting for the series. It's about 2 hours from Chicago and we see familiar characters return. Lucia, an Italian-American knows that the Irish and Italians are not civil in Chicago, so when Katy opens her home to Lucia she is leery. Katy, Lily and Lucia were a fun pair to read through the story. They did not know the whole story to why she was brought, but they know that Gio cared enough to bring her. Gio just needs to wait for Emberto to forget about Lucia... or will he?
The book is well written. The characters are well developed. I hate to say goodbye to my friends in Eagle, WI, but I am excited to see what the author has in store next. Thank you to the author, publisher and Celebrate Lit for a copy of this story. All thoughts are my own.
Gio is the neighbor to Lucia. He has a great respect for her grandfather. Gio is one that loves to help out all the neighbors. He delivers food to the food lines where Lucia is waiting one day for her portion. There is a no good mobster, Emberto that has his eye on Lucia. He takes her out of the food line, thankfully Gio helps her escape - but now Emberto will not stop until he finds Lucia, so Gio takes her to Eagle, Wisconsin.
This has been the primary setting for the series. It's about 2 hours from Chicago and we see familiar characters return. Lucia, an Italian-American knows that the Irish and Italians are not civil in Chicago, so when Katy opens her home to Lucia she is leery. Katy, Lily and Lucia were a fun pair to read through the story. They did not know the whole story to why she was brought, but they know that Gio cared enough to bring her. Gio just needs to wait for Emberto to forget about Lucia... or will he?
The book is well written. The characters are well developed. I hate to say goodbye to my friends in Eagle, WI, but I am excited to see what the author has in store next. Thank you to the author, publisher and Celebrate Lit for a copy of this story. All thoughts are my own.
September 27, 2022
Historical Fiction has become one of my Top 3 Genres to read. As Silent as the Night by Danielle Grandinetti is one that I recently had the honor to read. It is a Christmas Novella that goes along with the other 2 books in the Strike to the Heart series, To Stand in the Breach and A Strike to the Heart.
The time is 1933 and the story happens in Chicago. Lucia Critelli has been taking care of her grandfather and that includes standing in the breadline to get food for him. Lucia knows that the Mafia is wanting to threaten her Grandfather and fears she is also being targeted by them. Gio is Lucia and her Grandfather's neighbor and he loves helping others. He decides to take Lucia to Eagle, Wisconsin. His family isn't very welcoming as they don't want to be Targeted by the Mafia also. They agree to let her hide out as they see how much Gio really wants to keep Lucia safe. Will Lucia be kept safe from the mobster Emberto? Will there be a Romantic Relationship between Gio and Lucia?
WOW, each book in this series just keeps getting better! I was captivated by the storyline from the first chapter and kept reading until I was done with the book. The Great Depression time in Chicago was an interesting time, especially with the Mobsters in Chicago. I am actually a born and raised Chicago girl and even to this day, there are Family Members of Mobsters who live in the Chicago area. I really love how the relationship between Gio and Lucia progressed slowly and I truly enjoyed their storyline. I HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Christian Historical Fiction with Romance. WONDERFUL BOOK!
The time is 1933 and the story happens in Chicago. Lucia Critelli has been taking care of her grandfather and that includes standing in the breadline to get food for him. Lucia knows that the Mafia is wanting to threaten her Grandfather and fears she is also being targeted by them. Gio is Lucia and her Grandfather's neighbor and he loves helping others. He decides to take Lucia to Eagle, Wisconsin. His family isn't very welcoming as they don't want to be Targeted by the Mafia also. They agree to let her hide out as they see how much Gio really wants to keep Lucia safe. Will Lucia be kept safe from the mobster Emberto? Will there be a Romantic Relationship between Gio and Lucia?
WOW, each book in this series just keeps getting better! I was captivated by the storyline from the first chapter and kept reading until I was done with the book. The Great Depression time in Chicago was an interesting time, especially with the Mobsters in Chicago. I am actually a born and raised Chicago girl and even to this day, there are Family Members of Mobsters who live in the Chicago area. I really love how the relationship between Gio and Lucia progressed slowly and I truly enjoyed their storyline. I HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Christian Historical Fiction with Romance. WONDERFUL BOOK!
September 16, 2022
As Silent as the Night by Danielle Grandinetti is the book following A Strike to the Heart. Gio finally gets a story. It’s Chicago in 1933 and retired Marine Gio Vella can find anything. He is the man you find and ask if you need something especially if your an Italian immigrant. When Gio discovers Lucia Critelli is missing, he will stop at nothing to find her and make sure she is safe. Once he finds her, he slips her out of Chicago and brings her back to Eagle, Wisconsin where we meet up with the old gang. Lily, Miles, Katy, and Joey work with Gio to make sure she is protected while Gio figures out a way to make it safe for her to go home again. Gio never realized that the real danger was his heart!
This was such an amazing story. I loved Gio in the previous book and I was so happy that he got his own story especially a Christmas story. Danielle does not disappoint with this one. It will have you feeling all the warm holiday fuzzies along with some suspense to keep the pages turning and before you know it you will be at the epilogue! We do get an epilogue and it brought me happy tears! I truly enjoyed all the history and the care that went into this book. Can’t wait to read her next one! I know you will love it just as much as I did. I was given a copy by the author, but all opinions are my very own!
This was such an amazing story. I loved Gio in the previous book and I was so happy that he got his own story especially a Christmas story. Danielle does not disappoint with this one. It will have you feeling all the warm holiday fuzzies along with some suspense to keep the pages turning and before you know it you will be at the epilogue! We do get an epilogue and it brought me happy tears! I truly enjoyed all the history and the care that went into this book. Can’t wait to read her next one! I know you will love it just as much as I did. I was given a copy by the author, but all opinions are my very own!
September 23, 2022
As Silent as the Night is a wonderful novel that fills you with warm fuzzies while also making you look over your shoulder a bit.
There is a lot going on in this book. It’s part of a series. Okay, so I say this all the time, but read the series! This book technically fits in as book 1.5 or book 3 if you count the prequel as book one and the first book as book 2 and this one as book 3. It sounds confusing, but this is the final one in the series so far.
I say so far because I’m hoping for more!
I loved the characters. They stole my heart. It’s a great bit of historical fiction as it takes you back in time to the post-prohibition era. I love a good historical fiction and this definitely one of them! The entire series is amazing and I’m sure you’re going to love it as much as I did!
You’re going to love Gio as he keeps Lucia safe. They’re great characters and you get to see more characters from the first two books and check on how they’re doing!
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
There is a lot going on in this book. It’s part of a series. Okay, so I say this all the time, but read the series! This book technically fits in as book 1.5 or book 3 if you count the prequel as book one and the first book as book 2 and this one as book 3. It sounds confusing, but this is the final one in the series so far.
I say so far because I’m hoping for more!
I loved the characters. They stole my heart. It’s a great bit of historical fiction as it takes you back in time to the post-prohibition era. I love a good historical fiction and this definitely one of them! The entire series is amazing and I’m sure you’re going to love it as much as I did!
You’re going to love Gio as he keeps Lucia safe. They’re great characters and you get to see more characters from the first two books and check on how they’re doing!
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
September 24, 2022
Set in the 1930s, As Silent as the Night chronicles the lives of Lucia Critelli, her grandfather, and Retired Marine Scout Giosue “Gio” Vella, along with additional friends. Lucia wishes only to ensure her grandfather has enough to eat. So she stands in a breadline for food but winds up being taken by a mobster. Fortunately, she leaves her bag behind, which Gio finds. He then sets out to rescue her.
This book comes to life with well-developed characters and storylines. I loved seeing Lucia discover God along with His love and mercy. Gio believes he only desired to help Lucia like he helped many others. However, through his friends and Lucia himself, he finally discovered his love for Lucia.
This historical Christian novel kept me engaged until the very last page. I loved everything about this book. Even the mobsters in this book captured my interest.
So if you enjoy reading Christian historical novels filled with love, friendship, danger, and suspense, check out this book for yourself.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
This book comes to life with well-developed characters and storylines. I loved seeing Lucia discover God along with His love and mercy. Gio believes he only desired to help Lucia like he helped many others. However, through his friends and Lucia himself, he finally discovered his love for Lucia.
This historical Christian novel kept me engaged until the very last page. I loved everything about this book. Even the mobsters in this book captured my interest.
So if you enjoy reading Christian historical novels filled with love, friendship, danger, and suspense, check out this book for yourself.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
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September 11, 2022Meet Gio. Prohibition has just been repealed and Gio is delivering food to those in need. He has the most generous heart and can seem to get his hands on anything. He also seems to hold the hearts of ALL the neighborhood gals, though he doesn’t mean to.
Meet Lucia. She’s a sweet, devout gal who wants nothing more than to take care of her adored, ailing grandfather…her Nonno. (Ok, she also really likes Gio.). Lucia waits hours in line for some bread and food at the local church, praying she will get some food before it runs out, and praying she will find work so she can provide for herself and Nonno.
Lucia certainly doesn’t mean to, but she catches the eye of one of the mobster thugs manning the church doors, and so begins a story of action, suspense, risk, protection, faith, and love. You will not want to put Danielle Grandinetti’s As Silent As the Night down!
I received a complimentary copy of this book, however my opinion is entirely my own.
Meet Lucia. She’s a sweet, devout gal who wants nothing more than to take care of her adored, ailing grandfather…her Nonno. (Ok, she also really likes Gio.). Lucia waits hours in line for some bread and food at the local church, praying she will get some food before it runs out, and praying she will find work so she can provide for herself and Nonno.
Lucia certainly doesn’t mean to, but she catches the eye of one of the mobster thugs manning the church doors, and so begins a story of action, suspense, risk, protection, faith, and love. You will not want to put Danielle Grandinetti’s As Silent As the Night down!
I received a complimentary copy of this book, however my opinion is entirely my own.
October 10, 2022
Beautiful Christmas-time novella!! Loved it! I was so happy to be back in the world of the characters in the Strike to the Heart Series by Danielle Grandinetti. I could not wait to read Gio's story.
As Silent as the Night takes place in Chicago and Wisconsin in December of 1933. Mobsters, missing women, family, friends, traditions, and suspense kept me turning pages to read this in one sitting!
I loved reading about Gio, his family, the past he is trying to overcome, and Lucia who loves him. Gio is such an honorable and loveable guy, he tries to help the poor, innocent, and hungry in Chicago, but he feels unworthy of love himself. Lucia is in a bread line to get food to make a special celebration for St. Nicholas Day for her Grandpa when he delivers food to the church (where she is waiting in line), when she disappears.
If you love historical romance with a side of suspense, you will love this story! I highly recommend As Silent as the Night!
As Silent as the Night takes place in Chicago and Wisconsin in December of 1933. Mobsters, missing women, family, friends, traditions, and suspense kept me turning pages to read this in one sitting!
I loved reading about Gio, his family, the past he is trying to overcome, and Lucia who loves him. Gio is such an honorable and loveable guy, he tries to help the poor, innocent, and hungry in Chicago, but he feels unworthy of love himself. Lucia is in a bread line to get food to make a special celebration for St. Nicholas Day for her Grandpa when he delivers food to the church (where she is waiting in line), when she disappears.
If you love historical romance with a side of suspense, you will love this story! I highly recommend As Silent as the Night!
September 6, 2022
Chicago in late 1933 was not a friendly place for many reasons, not just the cold weather. The mob was not to be crossed, or it would mean the end of you or your family. The long arm of Al Capone was felt even from prison. The Depression brought long bread lines, with hungry people hoping for at least a loaf of bread. In this world, a person that could find what was needed was a very popular person. Gio Vella was just such a special soul. People went missing for many reasons, including our heroine, Lucia. Would he bring sorrow or Christmas to her grandfather?
An early copy of this suspense filled story has been my introduction to this author - one you certainly want to be on the lookout for. This was received through Hearth Spot Press, BookFunnel and CelebrateLit. These impressions are my own and were in no way solicited.
An early copy of this suspense filled story has been my introduction to this author - one you certainly want to be on the lookout for. This was received through Hearth Spot Press, BookFunnel and CelebrateLit. These impressions are my own and were in no way solicited.
September 27, 2022
This book is a short read and kept me turning the pages. It is a novella but it felt like it was a full novel, by this, I mean I didn’t feel like I was missing something like you do when some novellas. I haven’t read the other two books in this series but I definitely want to now. I don’t usually like movies about the mob. But, I think this book would make facebook a great movie if it actually followed the book and kept it clean. It was a surprise to learn why Lucia was targeted. Maybe not to other readers who reads these types of stories. It definitely wasn’t for the reason I thought at first. It was interesting to read the author’s note at the end to actually learn what part of this book was actually true.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.
September 22, 2022
This was a good novella. I have enjoyed the other books in this series so it was nice to read more about Gio. I liked these characters and I liked how they were there for each other through the hard times. I also liked that Lucia helped Gio to open his heart and to realize that it was ok to love. I liked that there was a good bit of adventure and suspense as Gio worked to keep Lucia safe. I thought this was a good story with lovable characters.
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
January 9, 2023
Gio is a fabulous character and I loved him in A Strike To The Heart. I think the most fascinating part of this story was the tiny look at life in 1930s Chicago as an immigrant. We get a little peek into the Italian community and I thought it was really neat how Gio handled the factions and everything so he could help so many. Very Christ-like.
It’s hard to put into words but the closest I can come is to say I felt like the personal side of the story lacked depth. However, I still enjoyed the story and I kind of hope there is one more full book because things feel unfinished in Eagle, Wisconsin. I don’t know who or what it would be about but I would like one more book.
It’s hard to put into words but the closest I can come is to say I felt like the personal side of the story lacked depth. However, I still enjoyed the story and I kind of hope there is one more full book because things feel unfinished in Eagle, Wisconsin. I don’t know who or what it would be about but I would like one more book.
September 30, 2022
I really enjoyed this book. It was a quick read and I really liked the characters and how the story flowed. Hip was probably my favorite character. He has such a big heart.
I really liked how the author handled the time period and the suspense. Lucia was a great character I loved the two of them together and am so very glad that I read the book.
4/5
Thank you to the author/publisher for the review copy of this book via Celebrate Lit. I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.
I really liked how the author handled the time period and the suspense. Lucia was a great character I loved the two of them together and am so very glad that I read the book.
4/5
Thank you to the author/publisher for the review copy of this book via Celebrate Lit. I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.
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November 30, 2022Author Note
Have you read A Strike to the Heart? Gio first appears in its pages and I fell in love with his character. What better way to give such a beloved character a happily ever after than at Christmas, if they survive the danger, that is. I enjoyed including Italian words and traditions in As Silent as the Night, along with other Christmas traditions. I hope you'll enjoy this heartwarming Christmas read. Buon Natale!
Have you read A Strike to the Heart? Gio first appears in its pages and I fell in love with his character. What better way to give such a beloved character a happily ever after than at Christmas, if they survive the danger, that is. I enjoyed including Italian words and traditions in As Silent as the Night, along with other Christmas traditions. I hope you'll enjoy this heartwarming Christmas read. Buon Natale!
February 17, 2023
This is my first time reading something by author Danielle Grandinetti, and I would definitely read more by her. This novella is well-written and engaging. It showcases a historical period I'm not very familiar with, the end of prohibition in 1933 and the heyday of organized crime. Grandinetti does a good job of bringing the time period to life, including plenty of suspenseful moments to balance the sweet romance. Well worth reading.
August 12, 2022
I live in Wisconsin and always enjoy books set in our state. I just finished another book dealing with human trafficking and had not thought if it as being such an old problem.
This book is enjoyable. Exciting, and filled with longing for love. I am glad I received an advance copy and highly recommended it.
This book is enjoyable. Exciting, and filled with longing for love. I am glad I received an advance copy and highly recommended it.
April 21, 2023
I really enjoyed getting to know the heroine of the story, Lucia Critelli, and the hero, Gio Vella. Lucia becomes the target of an evil mobster and Gio is trying to help. I enjoyed getting to know the secondary characters as well. The story was interesting and really drew me in. I also enjoyed the Christmas theme.
September 27, 2022
Gio was a favorite character from A Strike to the Heart, so I was thrilled to read his and Lucia's story! And it did not disappoint. This novella had everything I wanted and more. Being set during the holiday season makes it even more memorable. Absolutely loved it!
December 29, 2022
Such a wonderful Christmas novella!
Danielle's writing always hooks me fro. The beginning. She gives her characters a depth and keeps you on your toes.
This was a wonderful Christmas story containing love, running from the mafia, and helping others.
Danielle's writing always hooks me fro. The beginning. She gives her characters a depth and keeps you on your toes.
This was a wonderful Christmas story containing love, running from the mafia, and helping others.
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