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Grassi Family #4
The Woman from the Past
Four years ago, my boyfriend was killed by an unknown assailant, sending my entire life into a tailspin.
After years of suffering with no end in sight, I did the unthinkable.
I tracked down the man who’d killed my boyfriend - a mafia hitman from some place called Navesink Bank.
And I asked him for his help…
After years of suffering with no end in sight, I did the unthinkable.
I tracked down the man who’d killed my boyfriend - a mafia hitman from some place called Navesink Bank.
And I asked him for his help…
254 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 26, 2022
202 people are currently reading
224 people want to read
About the author
Jessica Gadziala
162 books5,394 followersJessica Gadziala is a USA Today bestselling author who lives in rural New Jersey with her parrots, dogs, and an ever-growing collection of houseplants. A lifelong dreamer, she’s been writing stories since childhood and published her first book in 2015. When not at her desk, she’s usually feeding backyard birds, rewatching crime dramas, period pieces, and 90s supernatural TV shows, or adding to her towering stacks of unread books.
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You can find her on
Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/Jessica-Gadz...
Newsletter: subscribepage.io/K4GPfj
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessicagadz...
Her Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/31454...
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/jessicagadz...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
October 10, 2022
Massimo and Cammie
Let me first state that, I’ve noticed that all the ‘Made’ men in the family. Have some crazy stories about how they met their Females, but damn I believe this one tops the cake
Massimo is the hitman for the New Jersey mafia
It wasn't every day the family called in Massimo. Typically, they all got their own hands dirty. Massimo was called in for big-deal shit jobs
I’ve wanted to read Massimo story ever since we met him in Lucky’s book (The Woman in the Scope), but I am not so sure about how believable it was for me in the Beginning. once, I got passed that point of the book ….I really started to enjoy it.
What is an man like Massimo to do when he comes face to face with someone he never imagined to ever see again ‘The woman from his past’
Massimo set off a chain of events when he killed Cody.
Cammie, had never been a vengeful person. She hadn’t ever harbored much hatred in her heart. But Cammie, has spent the past four years living in limbo. As a prisoner of her ex-boyfriend (Cody’s) Brother Colin …… This psychopath of a man dictated every aspect of her life.
She felt deep into depression, that was hard to climb back out of. The only thing that kept her going was to find Cody’s killer….
If you had told her that she might someday be seeking assistance from her ex-boyfriend killer, she would have probably laughed in your face…..Was it Probably not. a bit mental to put all her hope and trust in the man who killed your boyfriend, and then sent your life into a downward spiral for years? Probably not. But what choice did she have? Who else could help her?
I just love how each one of JG’S books leave you wanting more & more stories from the side characters …… I can’t wait to hear more about Massimo’s siblings.
So, if you’re looking for a book that has a bit of everything, a huge major dramatic twist sitting between the pages. Of this story. With some sexy steamy scenes…… A sexy mafia hitman that has the kindest of hearts and a strong sexy female with determination beyond your beliefs. you are in the right spot.
May 31, 2022
2 stars
This one was not it.
For starters the plot had so many holes in it, that it made it hard for me to put my "just go with it cap on.
We are supposed to believe that the heroine who was, let's face it, kind of oblivious to the games and players of the criminal underbelly, used GOOGLE and found out who was the hitman who killed her boyfriend. No one else knew, because for all accounts and purposes the hitman (also known as Massimo, the hero) is part of a mafia family not even located in NY, and he was so good that he would get hired by other mafia bosses to do their hits. But this girl, during 4 years, used google 10 minutes every week (because that's all she was allowed) and found not just the organization most likely to put the hit, but the actual guy. Okkkkkkkk.....
I wish this was the most unbelievable silly part, but no. The whole plan they put together afterwards in order to get her out of a messy situation and kill some bad guys.. what even was that? She literally could have ran away with her brother and then the hero would hide her until the bad guy was done for. That whole spy like adventure they put together was so absurd. Like.. why? Explanations were given yes, but they made no sense, so they amounted to nothing.
Now, talking about the romance and the couple itself. Zero chemistry, zero feelings, just zero, nada, zilch.
I'm dissapoined by this one. I hope Nino's book will be better.
This one was not it.
For starters the plot had so many holes in it, that it made it hard for me to put my "just go with it cap on.
We are supposed to believe that the heroine who was, let's face it, kind of oblivious to the games and players of the criminal underbelly, used GOOGLE and found out who was the hitman who killed her boyfriend. No one else knew, because for all accounts and purposes the hitman (also known as Massimo, the hero) is part of a mafia family not even located in NY, and he was so good that he would get hired by other mafia bosses to do their hits. But this girl, during 4 years, used google 10 minutes every week (because that's all she was allowed) and found not just the organization most likely to put the hit, but the actual guy. Okkkkkkkk.....
I wish this was the most unbelievable silly part, but no. The whole plan they put together afterwards in order to get her out of a messy situation and kill some bad guys.. what even was that? She literally could have ran away with her brother and then the hero would hide her until the bad guy was done for. That whole spy like adventure they put together was so absurd. Like.. why? Explanations were given yes, but they made no sense, so they amounted to nothing.
Now, talking about the romance and the couple itself. Zero chemistry, zero feelings, just zero, nada, zilch.
I'm dissapoined by this one. I hope Nino's book will be better.
June 5, 2023
When you’re hired to kill her boyfriend and she finds the body seconds after—an interesting meet cute for sure.
MAIN CHARACTER NAMES AND AGES
Cameron “Cammie” (?) | Massimo Grassi (30s)
FEATURES
∘ mafia romance
∘ instalove
∘ sneaking around
∘ mmc killled fmc’s boyfriend
∘ fmc saved by mmc from kidnapping
REVIEW
I really liked the idea of Cammie having to turn to her boyfriend’s killer for help. How she came to identify Massimo is a bit inconceivable, but it didn’t bother me.
Cammie’s character is described as being astute and clever when her actions show her to be naive and senseless. She does not hide her suspicious behavior well enough, and when she’s inevitably found out, she just confessed…? After keeping money hidden for FOUR years, she decides to slip up NOW? I get it, circumstances change, but the Cammie we are introduced to in the beginning is not who we get for the rest of the novel..
Massimo was so interesting as a side character, but then he becomes a main character and lost his charisma.
For all my complaints, I’m fully invested in the Grassi and Costa Families, so I’ll absolutely keep reading. I’ve been burned, I know, but I’ll fall for it every time because Jessica Gadziala’s writing is just that immersive.
OW/OM DRAMA sort of (not really) OM — a man holds Cammie kidnapped for four years and is interested in her, but Cammie cannot stand him
CHEATING none
THIRD ACT BREAKUP no
ENDING HEA
POV dual / first person
SPICE LEVEL 3.5 / 5
RATING 2.5 / 5
MAIN CHARACTER NAMES AND AGES
Cameron “Cammie” (?) | Massimo Grassi (30s)
FEATURES
∘ mafia romance
∘ instalove
∘ sneaking around
∘ mmc killled fmc’s boyfriend
∘ fmc saved by mmc from kidnapping
REVIEW
I really liked the idea of Cammie having to turn to her boyfriend’s killer for help. How she came to identify Massimo is a bit inconceivable, but it didn’t bother me.
Cammie’s character is described as being astute and clever when her actions show her to be naive and senseless. She does not hide her suspicious behavior well enough, and when she’s inevitably found out, she just confessed…? After keeping money hidden for FOUR years, she decides to slip up NOW? I get it, circumstances change, but the Cammie we are introduced to in the beginning is not who we get for the rest of the novel..
Massimo was so interesting as a side character, but then he becomes a main character and lost his charisma.
For all my complaints, I’m fully invested in the Grassi and Costa Families, so I’ll absolutely keep reading. I’ve been burned, I know, but I’ll fall for it every time because Jessica Gadziala’s writing is just that immersive.
OW/OM DRAMA sort of (not really) OM — a man holds Cammie kidnapped for four years and is interested in her, but Cammie cannot stand him
CHEATING none
THIRD ACT BREAKUP no
ENDING HEA
POV dual / first person
SPICE LEVEL 3.5 / 5
RATING 2.5 / 5
Read
May 27, 2022
US: https://amzn.to/3LTIKr5
Everywhere Else: mybook.to/FromthePast
June 2, 2022
Over the top unrealistic!
how did the h found out the boyfriend killer without even seeing him!? Because he's on the top of a building across the street at night, and she used Google! Take that FBI!
The plot was lacking... 4 years of doing nothing, being "locked up" and her bright idea is to find the man that killed her boyfriend because he's an amazing guy and will help?! RIGHT?!?(or maybe he is a killer and will tie loose ends!!!!!)
The instalove is just a bite of out of the fire into the frying pan... Out of a mafia guy to another she barely knows...
how did the h found out the boyfriend killer without even seeing him!? Because he's on the top of a building across the street at night, and she used Google! Take that FBI!
The plot was lacking... 4 years of doing nothing, being "locked up" and her bright idea is to find the man that killed her boyfriend because he's an amazing guy and will help?! RIGHT?!?(or maybe he is a killer and will tie loose ends!!!!!)
The instalove is just a bite of out of the fire into the frying pan... Out of a mafia guy to another she barely knows...
June 5, 2022
These men and there need to protect women at all costs is about to ruin my damn heart for life. I need me a Massimo. Hit man with a conscience. I want one.
The Woman from the Past may just be one of my top favs of all the Mafia men. I'm not looking for realism and relatablility when I read mafia.. I'm looking for an escape from reality, hot sex and characters that make me love them. This gave me this and then some.
The ladies of our beloved Made men are not known for their easy paths to love and Cammie is certainly not different. Whilst she may not have the most out their story, hers definitely isn't far from the top of crazy.
Hunt for the man who killed your boyfriend, for help?. Why the heck not, right. Better the devil you don't know than the devil you do in this scenario.
Cammie did not come from great beginners and for a while it became easy. Even if she wasn't a while lot happy or with the man of her dreams. Life was predictable in the best ways. Until it wasn't. Until she was locked up, a prisoner to a monster lurking beneath a creepy mask.
I loved Cammie and all her sweet willing personality. She wasn't silly nieve but she also wasn't jaded to life despite her circumstances. She made choices, she owned her mistakes and tried her best to find a way out. I think she was very brave and loving and so willing to do what it took even in the face of fear.
Massimo was such a sweet man who knew how to care for Cammie without overwhelming her in a way an alpha personality normally does. He was surprisingly sweet and gentle. He took the time to make sure she knew her options and he made everything about her and it being her choice. The man of course had that dangerous side and so much sex appeal I can't even but for me it was his gentle sweet that won me over time and time again. He felt like a fine wine that only got better with age.
These two where definitely a little all over the place in terms of relationship development which was expected given the circumstances. I felt the instant albeit dysfunctional sexual chemistry on their first meet. I felt the overwhelming tension with every meeting after and the build up to the inevitable climax. They had tension, they had this unspoken connection that whilst started of crazy dysfunctional... turned into this undeniable feeling that even they couldn't resist. It's was sweet despite the crazy around them and whilst it wasn't a seamlessly journey.. in the end it was worth it for those epilogues. Their happy. It was all worth it.
It typical Jessie fashion she brought us a tonne of action, a slew of multidimensional characters that each hold their own and make you want more of them. She brought the steam, the sass, the dysfunctional and the hilarious. She also brought us peaks into the future, teasing us with what's to come.
I loved Cammie and Massimos story. It was an easy read and flowed perfectly for me. I lost a few hours and finished feeling so content with them and also very curious about other specific characters.
I cannot wait for the next!!!! I wonder whom it will be.. .
The Woman from the Past may just be one of my top favs of all the Mafia men. I'm not looking for realism and relatablility when I read mafia.. I'm looking for an escape from reality, hot sex and characters that make me love them. This gave me this and then some.
The ladies of our beloved Made men are not known for their easy paths to love and Cammie is certainly not different. Whilst she may not have the most out their story, hers definitely isn't far from the top of crazy.
Hunt for the man who killed your boyfriend, for help?. Why the heck not, right. Better the devil you don't know than the devil you do in this scenario.
Cammie did not come from great beginners and for a while it became easy. Even if she wasn't a while lot happy or with the man of her dreams. Life was predictable in the best ways. Until it wasn't. Until she was locked up, a prisoner to a monster lurking beneath a creepy mask.
I loved Cammie and all her sweet willing personality. She wasn't silly nieve but she also wasn't jaded to life despite her circumstances. She made choices, she owned her mistakes and tried her best to find a way out. I think she was very brave and loving and so willing to do what it took even in the face of fear.
Massimo was such a sweet man who knew how to care for Cammie without overwhelming her in a way an alpha personality normally does. He was surprisingly sweet and gentle. He took the time to make sure she knew her options and he made everything about her and it being her choice. The man of course had that dangerous side and so much sex appeal I can't even but for me it was his gentle sweet that won me over time and time again. He felt like a fine wine that only got better with age.
These two where definitely a little all over the place in terms of relationship development which was expected given the circumstances. I felt the instant albeit dysfunctional sexual chemistry on their first meet. I felt the overwhelming tension with every meeting after and the build up to the inevitable climax. They had tension, they had this unspoken connection that whilst started of crazy dysfunctional... turned into this undeniable feeling that even they couldn't resist. It's was sweet despite the crazy around them and whilst it wasn't a seamlessly journey.. in the end it was worth it for those epilogues. Their happy. It was all worth it.
It typical Jessie fashion she brought us a tonne of action, a slew of multidimensional characters that each hold their own and make you want more of them. She brought the steam, the sass, the dysfunctional and the hilarious. She also brought us peaks into the future, teasing us with what's to come.
I loved Cammie and Massimos story. It was an easy read and flowed perfectly for me. I lost a few hours and finished feeling so content with them and also very curious about other specific characters.
I cannot wait for the next!!!! I wonder whom it will be.. .
May 27, 2022
I've been waiting for Massimo's book for a very long time.
He's always been a very interesting background character in the other books.
But I couldn't imagine which woman would suit him, nor did I imagine that he could be one of those very warm and sweet guys.
I mean, hello, we're talking about mafia enforcer here.
But, that doesn't matter at all because Massimo is perfect, like all Grassi men.
He's not the typical alpha macho, like other mafia men.
He's all for having a choice and doing what you love kind of man.
I think his mother would actually put him over her knee, whether he's enforcer or mafia boss and teach him a lesson if the women were treated badly 😂
The Grassi family acts according to the old code and has principles, one of which is women and children are taboo.
This story is of course not only sweet and swoony, it's a mafia romance after all, so it is also exciting and packed with lots of brutal emotional actions.
This book is rather mild on the brutal-bloody side of the story.
Yes, it's once again a woman who brings trouble, that must be eliminated to save her, but that's how it works in the Grassi family. The troublemakers, the mostly tough women are whom the brothers can't resist.
I really enjoyed and loved this book .
A must-read page-turner for all mafia romances fans.
He's always been a very interesting background character in the other books.
But I couldn't imagine which woman would suit him, nor did I imagine that he could be one of those very warm and sweet guys.
I mean, hello, we're talking about mafia enforcer here.
But, that doesn't matter at all because Massimo is perfect, like all Grassi men.
He's not the typical alpha macho, like other mafia men.
He's all for having a choice and doing what you love kind of man.
I think his mother would actually put him over her knee, whether he's enforcer or mafia boss and teach him a lesson if the women were treated badly 😂
The Grassi family acts according to the old code and has principles, one of which is women and children are taboo.
This story is of course not only sweet and swoony, it's a mafia romance after all, so it is also exciting and packed with lots of brutal emotional actions.
This book is rather mild on the brutal-bloody side of the story.
Yes, it's once again a woman who brings trouble, that must be eliminated to save her, but that's how it works in the Grassi family. The troublemakers, the mostly tough women are whom the brothers can't resist.
I really enjoyed and loved this book .
A must-read page-turner for all mafia romances fans.
May 27, 2022
These mafia books have become guilty little pleasures.. Massimo Grassi is the family hitman. He never takes out those undeserving and never feels any guilt.
But never say never. Four years ago he took out a man and didn't realize the girlfriend was in the other room. When that woman shows up today and says she has been living in hell since and wants his help to eliminate the man that has kept her prisoner for 4 years he is shocked. Along with the strange emotion of guilt he also experiences attraction and a sense to want to help this woman as its technically his fault.
Another great addition to the series. I loved getting to know Massimo's brothers more. Cant wait to see whose story will be next..
But never say never. Four years ago he took out a man and didn't realize the girlfriend was in the other room. When that woman shows up today and says she has been living in hell since and wants his help to eliminate the man that has kept her prisoner for 4 years he is shocked. Along with the strange emotion of guilt he also experiences attraction and a sense to want to help this woman as its technically his fault.
Another great addition to the series. I loved getting to know Massimo's brothers more. Cant wait to see whose story will be next..
May 27, 2022
As the enforcer for the Grassi Family, Massimo is used to being thorough in his preparation when he goes out to “problem-solve.” Meticulous to a fault, he is shocked that the one time he missed something, he would catch a glimpse of the most beautiful woman he had ever seen – the woman emerging from his target’s bedroom to find her boyfriend’s corpse. When she finds him at his vineyard early one morning, he has no idea why, but this story is absolutely riveting.
Full of intrigue, fantastic Mafia/gang machinations, lust and admiration, plus throw in a couple of real sociopaths and tests of loyalty, and you have a winner. A MUST READ!
Full of intrigue, fantastic Mafia/gang machinations, lust and admiration, plus throw in a couple of real sociopaths and tests of loyalty, and you have a winner. A MUST READ!
June 1, 2022
Loved this book! Interesting characters with interesting stories! Could not put it down!
June 4, 2022
I didn't like the heroine. I felt like her problems were her own fault.
SPOILER SPOILER SPOILER
Hero murdered her boyfriend. She knew he was dealing drugs and was a bad guy. So she keeps living in his apartment because she said she had nowhere else to go. Well she's young and healthy so she could have left and gotten a job. Instead hero's psycho brother shows up and tells her she's his. He forces her to live in an apartment nearby, makes her 2 brothers join the gang and work for him, and controls her entire life.
Yet somehow she was able to do enough research (her psycho boyfriend doesn't let her have a phone) to figure out who hero was. She is also able to sneak out because she told psycho she had a doctor's appointment and instead she goes to see hero.
She tells hero she knows where her dead boyfriend hid a few million dollars and she knows the names of the contacts and his business dealings. She has checked on the money a few times over the years (by lying and telling psycho she needs to see her gynecologist).
I doubt a psycho that controlling would let her go to the doctor by herself.
Anyway, I didn't like her. I thought she made dumb decisions. Read Faire l'amour by Jessica Gadziala that book is amazing.
SPOILER SPOILER SPOILER
Hero murdered her boyfriend. She knew he was dealing drugs and was a bad guy. So she keeps living in his apartment because she said she had nowhere else to go. Well she's young and healthy so she could have left and gotten a job. Instead hero's psycho brother shows up and tells her she's his. He forces her to live in an apartment nearby, makes her 2 brothers join the gang and work for him, and controls her entire life.
Yet somehow she was able to do enough research (her psycho boyfriend doesn't let her have a phone) to figure out who hero was. She is also able to sneak out because she told psycho she had a doctor's appointment and instead she goes to see hero.
She tells hero she knows where her dead boyfriend hid a few million dollars and she knows the names of the contacts and his business dealings. She has checked on the money a few times over the years (by lying and telling psycho she needs to see her gynecologist).
I doubt a psycho that controlling would let her go to the doctor by herself.
Anyway, I didn't like her. I thought she made dumb decisions. Read Faire l'amour by Jessica Gadziala that book is amazing.
May 31, 2022
A typical day of romance in this Grassi Family series by JG. Typical in that these boys have not met their soul mate s with a normal meet cute. No, they’re in a trunk, in the wrong place and in this case with the wrong person. Cammie has significant issues after Massimo takes out her boyfriend. She deals with this for four years! Finally she confronts him and lets him know what his actions caused. He feels guilty. In fact his brothers do too. Speaking of, love how secondary characters can steal the show and yet another outspoken cool chick emerges from the cafe! She stirs up August I hope JG writes them their story!
I suppose Nico has to get one too because he is looking. These books are short and sweet.🙃
I suppose Nico has to get one too because he is looking. These books are short and sweet.🙃
May 28, 2022
Nice
I really do love this family! This wasn't my favorite of the books so far, but it was good. I love the family dynamic and I can't wait for the other brothers love stories. The couple here had like insta love connection and grew thier relationship over the phone, but I wish we would have been privy to those conversations so we could feel their connection more. K
I really do love this family! This wasn't my favorite of the books so far, but it was good. I love the family dynamic and I can't wait for the other brothers love stories. The couple here had like insta love connection and grew thier relationship over the phone, but I wish we would have been privy to those conversations so we could feel their connection more. K
May 26, 2022
Roan is always one that held my interest and to finally get his story is awesome. Roan is older, which I like. Roan's story held me captive and I love him with MacKenzie. I just the Grassi Family series.
June 1, 2022
Another Grassi family win!
Mossimo is charming & Cammie is sweet without being annoying or naïve, a refreshing balance, and a nice change from the typical mafia grump (that I absolutely adore, but it’s a nice palate cleanser to read a trope written in a new way)
Mossimo is charming & Cammie is sweet without being annoying or naïve, a refreshing balance, and a nice change from the typical mafia grump (that I absolutely adore, but it’s a nice palate cleanser to read a trope written in a new way)
June 1, 2022
I just....did I miss the plot somewhere????
November 23, 2022
This was my least favourite book in this series - especially because I feel like it was almost a carbon copy of The Woman with the Scar. The plot was basically the same, a woman found herself trapped in an unwanted relationship by some wannabe gangster who is not as powerful as the mafia, and a member of the same mafia becomes a white knight, followed by a HEA Jessica Gadziala style.
October 10, 2023
“Well, this or any other fantasies you uncover, I’m here to help you realize them,”
They had an interesting meet cute. It was a little meh for me
They had an interesting meet cute. It was a little meh for me
June 1, 2023
4.5 stars
This is my favorite series from this author. I love any mention of Navesink. Great story that has a twist. Fantastic main and secondary characters. But all that aside, the epilogue told different day/month/years of the future and I live for it. These brothers are a hoot and I can't wait for what comes next.
This is my favorite series from this author. I love any mention of Navesink. Great story that has a twist. Fantastic main and secondary characters. But all that aside, the epilogue told different day/month/years of the future and I live for it. These brothers are a hoot and I can't wait for what comes next.
June 2, 2022
By the title, this one had me pause. By the blurb, this one also had me perk up and pay attention. I’m not the biggest fan of second change love but don’t let the title fool you either, this is not that. I love a good twist and this one certainly started out all twisty. It’s no shock or spoiler to know the heroine of this story loses her boyfriend to a mafia hitman, and then turns around and asks him for help.
Massimo, our resident expert marksman and enforcer for the Grassi Family got his time to shine. He’s been featured well enough in the other Grassi books, and even peeking into the New York Family scene but we finally get to see inside his head a bit.
Careful to never be traced from any of his “jobs” Massimo is surprised to see this woman from a past hit come back into his life…and turn things upside down.
Massimo’s family (not Family capital F but the other one) also shines light into the kind of man he is, seen in interactions with his older brother Nino and younger upstart brothers just becoming Made. Throw in some cousin and sister interactions, and we get a well-rounded picture of both Enforcer, Winery Owner, and family life Massimo.
Cammie’s story made me both sad, and mad. Sad for her struggles and mad about her current situation. (In a motivating, root for her kind of way) Older sister to two younger brothers, Cammie displays eldest tendencies, a solid sense of humor and honestly a pretty frank view of her lot in life. She’s not a withering flower but I wouldn’t call her a badass either.
Refreshing to see a heroine that genuinely needs help, seeks it out for herself, and is determined to see it through while also recognizing the dangers of doing so. It made her feel both real and easy to connect to. While we all would hope to be the assassin in our story to get the job done ourselves, I think we can all agree that hiring a professional would probably be the route we would have to take.
The steamy scenes in this one were less featured than a few previous books but didn’t diminish the sexy times that were present by being forced or rushed. The chemistry between Massimo and Cammie also developed naturally without an insta-love over-the-top connection. Oddly, for a mafia hit man love story, it really did feel relatable.
Traveler is going to be your new best friend, Nino is going to tug your heartstrings until we get his book, and your TBR pile is going to grow ever longer waiting for all the goodies we have coming from both new and old side characters.
Massimo, our resident expert marksman and enforcer for the Grassi Family got his time to shine. He’s been featured well enough in the other Grassi books, and even peeking into the New York Family scene but we finally get to see inside his head a bit.
Careful to never be traced from any of his “jobs” Massimo is surprised to see this woman from a past hit come back into his life…and turn things upside down.
Massimo’s family (not Family capital F but the other one) also shines light into the kind of man he is, seen in interactions with his older brother Nino and younger upstart brothers just becoming Made. Throw in some cousin and sister interactions, and we get a well-rounded picture of both Enforcer, Winery Owner, and family life Massimo.
Cammie’s story made me both sad, and mad. Sad for her struggles and mad about her current situation. (In a motivating, root for her kind of way) Older sister to two younger brothers, Cammie displays eldest tendencies, a solid sense of humor and honestly a pretty frank view of her lot in life. She’s not a withering flower but I wouldn’t call her a badass either.
Refreshing to see a heroine that genuinely needs help, seeks it out for herself, and is determined to see it through while also recognizing the dangers of doing so. It made her feel both real and easy to connect to. While we all would hope to be the assassin in our story to get the job done ourselves, I think we can all agree that hiring a professional would probably be the route we would have to take.
The steamy scenes in this one were less featured than a few previous books but didn’t diminish the sexy times that were present by being forced or rushed. The chemistry between Massimo and Cammie also developed naturally without an insta-love over-the-top connection. Oddly, for a mafia hit man love story, it really did feel relatable.
Traveler is going to be your new best friend, Nino is going to tug your heartstrings until we get his book, and your TBR pile is going to grow ever longer waiting for all the goodies we have coming from both new and old side characters.
June 15, 2022
The premise for this story for me was just to unbelievable for me to like it. I love the Grassi family and have enjoyed spending time learning about the additions to their family.
However the absolute ridiculousness of the plot premise is beyond any sort of reality. I have it two stars because of the story with the other Grassi characters & the relationship between Massimo & Cammie.
*****SPOILERS BELOW ********
First - Cammie’s situation when she comes back into Massimo’s life just didn’t read realistic. She was a high school educated girl from a broken home who chose to live with her drug dealing boyfriend to get out of her bad family situation. She is able to pinpoint a generations old low key mafia family (from another area) as the proponent of executing her boyfriend? She is able to exactly identify the sniper that performed this execution? This is all completed in 10 minute Google search intervals on a borrowed phone? Someone call the FBI this girl is an asset you need to know about. She then approaches said sniper informing him she knows he did it and then asks for a favor?
Second - It is no way believable that Evil Incarnate Colin would have never forced Cammie into sexual servitude during her 4 years as his prisoner (IGAF how much he liked her in high school). The man murders people regularly and has an crazy obsession with Cammie? I’m shocked he didn’t make her wear her cheerleading outfit from high school.
Third- It was also completely unbelievable that Cammie who was the acting parent to her two younger brothers would walk away from them to move in with her drug dealing boyfriend. She is either their parent or not. You’re telling me she wouldn’t file for custody after hitting 18 and gain custody? Frankly the way her character is written it is more believable that she would have given herself to Colin in order to get her brothers away from her parents.
However the absolute ridiculousness of the plot premise is beyond any sort of reality. I have it two stars because of the story with the other Grassi characters & the relationship between Massimo & Cammie.
*****SPOILERS BELOW ********
First - Cammie’s situation when she comes back into Massimo’s life just didn’t read realistic. She was a high school educated girl from a broken home who chose to live with her drug dealing boyfriend to get out of her bad family situation. She is able to pinpoint a generations old low key mafia family (from another area) as the proponent of executing her boyfriend? She is able to exactly identify the sniper that performed this execution? This is all completed in 10 minute Google search intervals on a borrowed phone? Someone call the FBI this girl is an asset you need to know about. She then approaches said sniper informing him she knows he did it and then asks for a favor?
Second - It is no way believable that Evil Incarnate Colin would have never forced Cammie into sexual servitude during her 4 years as his prisoner (IGAF how much he liked her in high school). The man murders people regularly and has an crazy obsession with Cammie? I’m shocked he didn’t make her wear her cheerleading outfit from high school.
Third- It was also completely unbelievable that Cammie who was the acting parent to her two younger brothers would walk away from them to move in with her drug dealing boyfriend. She is either their parent or not. You’re telling me she wouldn’t file for custody after hitting 18 and gain custody? Frankly the way her character is written it is more believable that she would have given herself to Colin in order to get her brothers away from her parents.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 31, 2022
Massimo doesn’t make mistakes. He’s cold and calculating but one night a job doesn’t go exactly to plan. He was supposed to be alone but when Massimo takes the shot, but then she comes running into the room.
Years later Cammie has tracked him down and now wants his help to right the wrong. He had no idea what hell he put her through and now he feels something he hasn’t felt before… guilt.
It’s not going to be easy but can he correct his mistake?
I liked this book, a little far fetched but wanted something more from Massimo’s story
Xx
Years later Cammie has tracked him down and now wants his help to right the wrong. He had no idea what hell he put her through and now he feels something he hasn’t felt before… guilt.
It’s not going to be easy but can he correct his mistake?
I liked this book, a little far fetched but wanted something more from Massimo’s story
Xx
June 15, 2022
Massi is my favourite!!
Can Massi be my favourite of the Grassi men now?
Massimo and Cammie are a lot of sexy, SEXY heat once Massi gets out of his head about being THAT guy. Cammie obviously had reconciled the issue in the 5 years she was stuck with Colin, but it takes Massimo a minute longer.
Cammie's strength and devotion to her brothers makes her such a sweet character. I understood her hatred for so many things Colin was forcing on her, but her ability to keep moving and not just lay down and give up was such an eye opener for me right now!
Massimo's guilt about what might have happened to Cammie years ago was not necessarily a bad thing, and in this instance I think it was incredibly necessary to help get her out of her current situation. As always the Grassi men don't just walk away, no matter what they may make you think. I knew he'd help her!
The side characters in this book are a trip from Nino making sure the women have exactly what they need when they need it (how do I find a guy that changes my oil right when it's due for free?) to August and Traveler and their new kind of - wait is that some kind of humiliation k*nk August has going on? No, he just cannot manage to keep from insulting her, and then having to apologize on the daily!! I find it kind of sexy when Traveler dumps his coffee, lol! I absolutely loved Nicky, and I'm begging for Traveler to get a book SOON!!
5 stars for another sexy, smart, cunning Grassi man!! I love, LOVE this series!
5/5 ⭐'s
4/5 🌶's
Can Massi be my favourite of the Grassi men now?
Massimo and Cammie are a lot of sexy, SEXY heat once Massi gets out of his head about being THAT guy. Cammie obviously had reconciled the issue in the 5 years she was stuck with Colin, but it takes Massimo a minute longer.
Cammie's strength and devotion to her brothers makes her such a sweet character. I understood her hatred for so many things Colin was forcing on her, but her ability to keep moving and not just lay down and give up was such an eye opener for me right now!
Massimo's guilt about what might have happened to Cammie years ago was not necessarily a bad thing, and in this instance I think it was incredibly necessary to help get her out of her current situation. As always the Grassi men don't just walk away, no matter what they may make you think. I knew he'd help her!
The side characters in this book are a trip from Nino making sure the women have exactly what they need when they need it (how do I find a guy that changes my oil right when it's due for free?) to August and Traveler and their new kind of - wait is that some kind of humiliation k*nk August has going on? No, he just cannot manage to keep from insulting her, and then having to apologize on the daily!! I find it kind of sexy when Traveler dumps his coffee, lol! I absolutely loved Nicky, and I'm begging for Traveler to get a book SOON!!
5 stars for another sexy, smart, cunning Grassi man!! I love, LOVE this series!
5/5 ⭐'s
4/5 🌶's
August 12, 2022
I would have liked Massimo's story to have more depth and darkness. He's the first character in the series that seemed less than he was built up to be in the previous books. The darkness required of someone in a position like his was not present at all. It didn't feel like he was the same character who got along with Brio in previous books, who loomed in windows and shadows. So that felt a bit off.
I also would have liked Cammie to have more depth as well to match Massimo a little better. And I most certainly would have loved seeing her do something more with her freedom than what was written for her. Not that stay at home mom is a bad thing but I imagine anyone who had been cooped up for so long would have found something outside of that to get involved and passionate about. Like Nicky's mission to help kids stay off the street, Valley's interest in fashion... SOMETHING. It seemed like a no-brainer. A homemaker fit the storyline, creating a loving home having never had one herself. But I would have liked to see more. Just like I would have enjoyed seeing more substance given to Massimo's character. Hence, the 3 star rating for a book in a series I have mostly given 5 stars to.
Time to do some research on the related standalone books and see which lucky characters made the cut to have their own books too! I'm so curious about August/Travler, Nino, Valley, Lettie and Smush/Sophia!
I also would have liked Cammie to have more depth as well to match Massimo a little better. And I most certainly would have loved seeing her do something more with her freedom than what was written for her. Not that stay at home mom is a bad thing but I imagine anyone who had been cooped up for so long would have found something outside of that to get involved and passionate about. Like Nicky's mission to help kids stay off the street, Valley's interest in fashion... SOMETHING. It seemed like a no-brainer. A homemaker fit the storyline, creating a loving home having never had one herself. But I would have liked to see more. Just like I would have enjoyed seeing more substance given to Massimo's character. Hence, the 3 star rating for a book in a series I have mostly given 5 stars to.
Time to do some research on the related standalone books and see which lucky characters made the cut to have their own books too! I'm so curious about August/Travler, Nino, Valley, Lettie and Smush/Sophia!
May 29, 2022
3.5-4.0 Stars
The Woman from the Past is the fourth book in the Grassi Family series. This is Massimo's book.
Massimo and Cammie are a sweet couple. The way they meet, or at least the circumstances of how they know each other, is not your typical story. You would think there would be no way to get past what happened; however as often the case, that’s not the way things play out.
There is an immediate attraction between Massimo and Cammie that I would easily describe as insta-love. Because of Cammie’s situation, Massimo doesn’t get to spend a lot of time with her. I would have liked more chapters with the couple as they got to know one another and started developing feelings. It’s implied that the two of them talk on the phone, but we don’t get any of those conversations. There’s a nice Epilogue, but the way the main conflict is handled was too fast and fell a little flat.
Massimo’s brothers Nino and August are the main side characters in this one, and a couple of new characters are introduced. I enjoyed the story but would have liked more.
The Woman from the Past is the fourth book in the Grassi Family series. This is Massimo's book.
Massimo and Cammie are a sweet couple. The way they meet, or at least the circumstances of how they know each other, is not your typical story. You would think there would be no way to get past what happened; however as often the case, that’s not the way things play out.
There is an immediate attraction between Massimo and Cammie that I would easily describe as insta-love. Because of Cammie’s situation, Massimo doesn’t get to spend a lot of time with her. I would have liked more chapters with the couple as they got to know one another and started developing feelings. It’s implied that the two of them talk on the phone, but we don’t get any of those conversations. There’s a nice Epilogue, but the way the main conflict is handled was too fast and fell a little flat.
Massimo’s brothers Nino and August are the main side characters in this one, and a couple of new characters are introduced. I enjoyed the story but would have liked more.
May 31, 2022
Jessica Gadziala’s mafia men are my favorite!!! This is Massimo’s book, and I have been waiting for this since we met him in Lucky’s book (The Woman in the Scope)!! Massimo and Cammie are just perfect!!!
Massimo is the Grassi family’s assassin, and he has a ghost from the past show up needing his help to get out of a terrible situation…that he put her in to begin with! Cammie was the girlfriend of one of his hits, and when Massimo took out her boyfriend 4 years ago, it left her at the mercy of his deranged brother. Now she’s finally managed to track down Massimo to let him know just how much he screwed everything up that day, and ask for help with taking out the brother that is one hundred times worse than her boyfriend had ever thought about being.
As usually, Jessica has made me fall in love with each and every character she introduces to us. I have to say, August and Traveler pretty much stole the show!!!! I LOVE them, and I can’t wait to see who Nino ends up with too!!!
Massimo is the Grassi family’s assassin, and he has a ghost from the past show up needing his help to get out of a terrible situation…that he put her in to begin with! Cammie was the girlfriend of one of his hits, and when Massimo took out her boyfriend 4 years ago, it left her at the mercy of his deranged brother. Now she’s finally managed to track down Massimo to let him know just how much he screwed everything up that day, and ask for help with taking out the brother that is one hundred times worse than her boyfriend had ever thought about being.
As usually, Jessica has made me fall in love with each and every character she introduces to us. I have to say, August and Traveler pretty much stole the show!!!! I LOVE them, and I can’t wait to see who Nino ends up with too!!!
June 3, 2022
This is Massimo's book. If you can't remember who he is, he's the Grassi family hit man. Spoiler from the previous book:
I LOVED this one. The Costa series is my favorite mafia series of Gadziala as they tend to be a bit darker, but this is right up there. It may be because I'm an absolute sucker for hit men. I loved this story line.
This is a page turner, non stop entertainment with touches of Massimo's brothers.
And now I'm stoked to get Traveler and August's book, but especially Valley's book for THAT story line!
I LOVED this one. The Costa series is my favorite mafia series of Gadziala as they tend to be a bit darker, but this is right up there. It may be because I'm an absolute sucker for hit men. I loved this story line.
This is a page turner, non stop entertainment with touches of Massimo's brothers.
And now I'm stoked to get Traveler and August's book, but especially Valley's book for THAT story line!
August 28, 2025
I'm loving Gadziala's Navesink Bank world. These Navesink Bank characters have the most interesting stories and bleed through to other factions from the mob, to the MC, loan sharks, & honest police. Gadziala weaves fantastic characters with layered backgrounds Massimo, the Grassi family hitman with heterochromia is stunned when the girlfriend of a man he hit four years ago shows up at his winery needing help. Cammie has been a prisoner for four years by her dead boyfriend's brother and needs help breaking down his burgeoning empire and break free. Mass & his brothers research and form plans to help Cammie out and along the way Massimo & Cammie fall for each other with dangerous circumstances. More characters introduced including Mass's brothers (Nino, Dante, Santo, & August along with sister Valley) coffee shop owner Traveler, & mob doctor Lettie. Can't wait to read the next book!
July 2, 2022
4 Massimo Stars
The Woman from the Past is the fourth book in the Grassi Family series. It is time for Massimo story an d oh it didn't disappoint. He was such a sweetie pie for a hit man! His past6 has caught up with him and a job that was supposed to be straight forward turns many lives up side down.
Cammie is caught and can't seem to get out. She has everything in her life decided for her from her hair to her food. She has decided to do anything that she has to, to get herself free. Even track down her ex boyfriends killer.
This was such a nice easy read but there was a lot of down time and it could have had a little more oomph to it at times. But still a great read.
The Woman from the Past is the fourth book in the Grassi Family series. It is time for Massimo story an d oh it didn't disappoint. He was such a sweetie pie for a hit man! His past6 has caught up with him and a job that was supposed to be straight forward turns many lives up side down.
Cammie is caught and can't seem to get out. She has everything in her life decided for her from her hair to her food. She has decided to do anything that she has to, to get herself free. Even track down her ex boyfriends killer.
This was such a nice easy read but there was a lot of down time and it could have had a little more oomph to it at times. But still a great read.
May 30, 2022
I want my own Mafia Man!! Just Sayin!!
Massimo Grassi is a man who takes care of business and has never been caught. Part of this huge mafia family they all do there own thing to. So when a woman shows up at his business asking for his help he can’t resist.
“I’ve been trying to look you guys up all day and night since. But, apparently, hot mafia guys are unlisted,”
“Cammie,” saw him that night and she needs him to take care of her problem. She’s caught up in a situation she can’t handle.
“What are you doing?” I asked when August started scooting his seat closer to me.
“Moving over so you can make moon eyes at Cammie,” he said.
Just st keep these super hot mafia guys coming.
Massimo Grassi is a man who takes care of business and has never been caught. Part of this huge mafia family they all do there own thing to. So when a woman shows up at his business asking for his help he can’t resist.
“I’ve been trying to look you guys up all day and night since. But, apparently, hot mafia guys are unlisted,”
“Cammie,” saw him that night and she needs him to take care of her problem. She’s caught up in a situation she can’t handle.
“What are you doing?” I asked when August started scooting his seat closer to me.
“Moving over so you can make moon eyes at Cammie,” he said.
Just st keep these super hot mafia guys coming.
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