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Oliveri Mafia #1
Inescapable
* THIS FIRST INSTALLMENT OF THIS SERIES CAN BE READ AS A STANDALONE. NO CLIFFHANGER.
Jessie has sworn off relationships until she can exorcise her secret celebrity crush from her thoughts. More importantly, her fantasies. Crushing on someone rumored to be in the mafia was a red hot no for her. When she comes face-to-face with the man himself, he is more dangerous than she initially thought... and not just to her safety.
Gio Oliveri is the wealthy heir to the dubious Oliveri business empire. Ruthless in business and his personal life, Gio never lets an insult go unaddressed. So when a woman embarrasses him, in his own club no less, he sets out to teach her a lesson, only to set his sights on her friend. After a disastrous first impression, be buys himself three months to woo Jessie, who challenges him at every turn. He has to find a way to keep Jessie before his family responsibilities tear them apart forever.
As he pursues his deepening desire for Jessie, unknown threats to his business and her life begin to appear. In addition to uncovering the mysterious threats, he has Jessie’s misgivings about his chosen profession to contend with. He must find a way to make his temporary relationship permanent.
Exposed to Gio’s mobster persona, Jessie cannot deny the devastating violence he wields so effortlessly and questions if she could one day be on the receiving end.
As they navigate their new relationship and the dangerous parties seeking to destroy them, it will take a devastating loss and deep soul searching before they trust each other enough to fight for their love.
Jessie has sworn off relationships until she can exorcise her secret celebrity crush from her thoughts. More importantly, her fantasies. Crushing on someone rumored to be in the mafia was a red hot no for her. When she comes face-to-face with the man himself, he is more dangerous than she initially thought... and not just to her safety.
Gio Oliveri is the wealthy heir to the dubious Oliveri business empire. Ruthless in business and his personal life, Gio never lets an insult go unaddressed. So when a woman embarrasses him, in his own club no less, he sets out to teach her a lesson, only to set his sights on her friend. After a disastrous first impression, be buys himself three months to woo Jessie, who challenges him at every turn. He has to find a way to keep Jessie before his family responsibilities tear them apart forever.
As he pursues his deepening desire for Jessie, unknown threats to his business and her life begin to appear. In addition to uncovering the mysterious threats, he has Jessie’s misgivings about his chosen profession to contend with. He must find a way to make his temporary relationship permanent.
Exposed to Gio’s mobster persona, Jessie cannot deny the devastating violence he wields so effortlessly and questions if she could one day be on the receiving end.
As they navigate their new relationship and the dangerous parties seeking to destroy them, it will take a devastating loss and deep soul searching before they trust each other enough to fight for their love.
446 pages, Paperback
First published July 1, 2021
306 people are currently reading
305 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 105 reviews
July 25, 2021
The jumping off point to this story doesn’t work because it makes it necessary for the reader to suspend disbelief.
Giorgio Oliveri is reputed to be a killer, yet he allows Jessica Manley's best friend, Stephanie to publicly do bodily harm to him without any immediate repercussions. She’s able to best a gangsta with bodyguards, in his club, in front of patrons, his staff and business associates. An alpha male where appearance and perceptions are important. Nope!
Is Mr. Fantasy—Mr. Menacing? This is not clear as the author seems to suggest and not suggest this theory. One thing is clear, they look alike. My interpretation—they are the same person!
We learn that Gio was interested in Stephanie before the take-down, so what would’ve happened if that incident hadn’t occurred? He would’ve been with Stephanie! I feel some type of way with Jessie being a (second place) consolation prize.
After what went down at the club, Jessie wants to leave town but Stephanie doesn't want to interrupt her vacation. The matter is quickly resolved when they are easily found and frankly the punishment (thankfully) doesn’t fit the crime. Jessie learning that Gio is now focused on her, elicits an incendiary reaction. She’s not immune to his charms and her selflessness in taking Stephanie’s punishment is crazy! Jessie is very level headed and mature, and despite the circumstances, Gio makes it clear he won’t take anything that is not freely given to him.
As time goes on, they slowly fall for one another despite Gio being required to fulfill a devastating family edict to the detriment of his relationship with Jessie. He never wavers and he’s honest with Jessie (mostly) when cornered, but ultimately he lives to please her.
When she compares her relationship with Gio to her parents, she becomes very concerned with history repeating itself and tries to find creative ways to extricate herself from her circumstances. Of course, wherever she goes, Gio’s sure to follow. Despite some missteps this is still a good story. Highly Recommended: Read It!
Stay tuned for Nick and Rene’s Story coming soon!
Giorgio Oliveri is reputed to be a killer, yet he allows Jessica Manley's best friend, Stephanie to publicly do bodily harm to him without any immediate repercussions. She’s able to best a gangsta with bodyguards, in his club, in front of patrons, his staff and business associates. An alpha male where appearance and perceptions are important. Nope!
Is Mr. Fantasy—Mr. Menacing? This is not clear as the author seems to suggest and not suggest this theory. One thing is clear, they look alike. My interpretation—they are the same person!
We learn that Gio was interested in Stephanie before the take-down, so what would’ve happened if that incident hadn’t occurred? He would’ve been with Stephanie! I feel some type of way with Jessie being a (second place) consolation prize.
After what went down at the club, Jessie wants to leave town but Stephanie doesn't want to interrupt her vacation. The matter is quickly resolved when they are easily found and frankly the punishment (thankfully) doesn’t fit the crime. Jessie learning that Gio is now focused on her, elicits an incendiary reaction. She’s not immune to his charms and her selflessness in taking Stephanie’s punishment is crazy! Jessie is very level headed and mature, and despite the circumstances, Gio makes it clear he won’t take anything that is not freely given to him.
As time goes on, they slowly fall for one another despite Gio being required to fulfill a devastating family edict to the detriment of his relationship with Jessie. He never wavers and he’s honest with Jessie (mostly) when cornered, but ultimately he lives to please her.
When she compares her relationship with Gio to her parents, she becomes very concerned with history repeating itself and tries to find creative ways to extricate herself from her circumstances. Of course, wherever she goes, Gio’s sure to follow. Despite some missteps this is still a good story. Highly Recommended: Read It!
Stay tuned for Nick and Rene’s Story coming soon!
July 19, 2021
In the past few weeks, I have tried to expand my reading horizons by trying new authors. However, the number of misses I've made far outweighs the number of hits.
Despite the somewhat rocky start to the book, the content went on to be quite interesting. By building the story and leveling out the plot, the author made good use of my attention. All of a sudden, after such a promising start, it all fell apart and I lost interest.
Gio is a mafia boss who tells not shows about his exploits with Jessie, the undeveloped heroine in the story. His method in forcing his way into her life and how he introduced himself to her were cliche and confusing at best.
What's up with the mafia boss who hunts down two girls from his club because they embarrass him. Give me a break. The man had nothing better to do, really. Normally I can understand the suspense of belief, but this was really impossible to believe.
And to make matters worse, the story does not provide a clear outline as to why, how, when and how the mafia boss falls for the girl.
I thought the plot of the story had a childish tone, and Gio and Jesse were both portrayed in a flat manner. They simply weren't a good match for me as a couple. Writing was not well done, and I was particularly annoyed when both of the characters behaved immaturely and childishly.
In the end, I found the book to be incredibly boring, with the main characters being flat, the romance being unrealistic, and the plot not adhering to the expected flow of the story.
This was pretty much a disappointing book in the sense that it was all over the place in every way. I will not be recommending this book.
Despite the somewhat rocky start to the book, the content went on to be quite interesting. By building the story and leveling out the plot, the author made good use of my attention. All of a sudden, after such a promising start, it all fell apart and I lost interest.
Gio is a mafia boss who tells not shows about his exploits with Jessie, the undeveloped heroine in the story. His method in forcing his way into her life and how he introduced himself to her were cliche and confusing at best.
What's up with the mafia boss who hunts down two girls from his club because they embarrass him. Give me a break. The man had nothing better to do, really. Normally I can understand the suspense of belief, but this was really impossible to believe.
And to make matters worse, the story does not provide a clear outline as to why, how, when and how the mafia boss falls for the girl.
I thought the plot of the story had a childish tone, and Gio and Jesse were both portrayed in a flat manner. They simply weren't a good match for me as a couple. Writing was not well done, and I was particularly annoyed when both of the characters behaved immaturely and childishly.
In the end, I found the book to be incredibly boring, with the main characters being flat, the romance being unrealistic, and the plot not adhering to the expected flow of the story.
This was pretty much a disappointing book in the sense that it was all over the place in every way. I will not be recommending this book.
July 8, 2021
I love reading books by new authors and I was hooked on this book.
Jessie’s bestie from college comes to town for the summer and they decide to have a night on the town hitting up the hottest clubs. Unfortunately, for straight laced Jessie her bestie Samantha is a hot head who ends up using her self defense moves on the wrong man from the wrong family.
Now both must pay the consequences of Samantha’s actions but unbeknownst to Jessie she is the ultimate goal and obsession. Georgio has been obsessed with making Jessie his every since he saw her dancing at his club and he’ll go to any means to possess her fully.
I really liked the character of Jessie because she has common sense and doesn’t want to repeat her mother’s mistakes. When she realizes that she’s losing herself she fights for her freedom even if that means leaving the man she loves.
I love an alpha and Georgio was an alpha to the 10th degree, he loved Jessie so much that he would go to any lengths to make her happy. I also appreciated that he listened to her when she voiced her concerns. He’s ruthless and manipulative and willing to do anything to keep Jessie in his life no matter the consequences.
This book is full of twist turns and ruthless people trying to destroy Georgio and his family which is another element to this story.
I will say Jessie’s bestie/hairdresser Rene is a ride or die for her friend and I look forward to her story. One element I’m still not clear on was the celebrity crush mentioned in the first three chapter that’s not resolved by the end of the story. It’s just never mentioned again like it wasn’t a focus in the first 3 chapters.
Overall, I enjoyed the book and look forward to reading more by this author.
Jessie’s bestie from college comes to town for the summer and they decide to have a night on the town hitting up the hottest clubs. Unfortunately, for straight laced Jessie her bestie Samantha is a hot head who ends up using her self defense moves on the wrong man from the wrong family.
Now both must pay the consequences of Samantha’s actions but unbeknownst to Jessie she is the ultimate goal and obsession. Georgio has been obsessed with making Jessie his every since he saw her dancing at his club and he’ll go to any means to possess her fully.
I really liked the character of Jessie because she has common sense and doesn’t want to repeat her mother’s mistakes. When she realizes that she’s losing herself she fights for her freedom even if that means leaving the man she loves.
I love an alpha and Georgio was an alpha to the 10th degree, he loved Jessie so much that he would go to any lengths to make her happy. I also appreciated that he listened to her when she voiced her concerns. He’s ruthless and manipulative and willing to do anything to keep Jessie in his life no matter the consequences.
This book is full of twist turns and ruthless people trying to destroy Georgio and his family which is another element to this story.
I will say Jessie’s bestie/hairdresser Rene is a ride or die for her friend and I look forward to her story. One element I’m still not clear on was the celebrity crush mentioned in the first three chapter that’s not resolved by the end of the story. It’s just never mentioned again like it wasn’t a focus in the first 3 chapters.
Overall, I enjoyed the book and look forward to reading more by this author.
July 7, 2021
Good
Ok. It took my a couple of chapters to get into it but I finally made. It was a good book.
Ok. It took my a couple of chapters to get into it but I finally made. It was a good book.
July 8, 2021
Good first book
I really enjoyed this book. I was pleasantly surprised. Parts were slightly immature but the best part about fiction is the suspension of reality. I hope this is not the end of this crew. In would love to read about Zo, Nick, and Renee. As well get an update on the Jessie and Gio. I would recommend this book.
I really enjoyed this book. I was pleasantly surprised. Parts were slightly immature but the best part about fiction is the suspension of reality. I hope this is not the end of this crew. In would love to read about Zo, Nick, and Renee. As well get an update on the Jessie and Gio. I would recommend this book.
July 4, 2021
Just no
I only got to the third chapter and stopped. This ain’t it. The main character was annoying a d she focused on her friend Stephanie too much. I’m sorry I don’t like to give bad reviews..,
I only got to the third chapter and stopped. This ain’t it. The main character was annoying a d she focused on her friend Stephanie too much. I’m sorry I don’t like to give bad reviews..,
July 5, 2021
First
If this is Ms. McFarlane’s first book then she knocked it all the way out of the park. This was a mafia romance with many of the associated tropes but under this author’s skilled hands every element was fresh and vibrant. When Jessie’s friend physically rebuffed Gio at his club he is determined to hunt her down and retaliate. What he does not count on is his immediate obsession and unshakable longing for Jessie. In order to change the course of his revenge he makes Jessie his. They embark on a complicated relationship with an expiration date but it is obvious soon that he can never let her go! This is a truly complex story with unexpected and exciting action and plenty of twists. We get our happily ever after but at a great cost. This book is free on Kindle but it is so good I had to go back and purchase it for my library. I CAN NOT WAIT to see what is next!!!!
If this is Ms. McFarlane’s first book then she knocked it all the way out of the park. This was a mafia romance with many of the associated tropes but under this author’s skilled hands every element was fresh and vibrant. When Jessie’s friend physically rebuffed Gio at his club he is determined to hunt her down and retaliate. What he does not count on is his immediate obsession and unshakable longing for Jessie. In order to change the course of his revenge he makes Jessie his. They embark on a complicated relationship with an expiration date but it is obvious soon that he can never let her go! This is a truly complex story with unexpected and exciting action and plenty of twists. We get our happily ever after but at a great cost. This book is free on Kindle but it is so good I had to go back and purchase it for my library. I CAN NOT WAIT to see what is next!!!!
July 4, 2021
Scandalous
Whew! This debut is fire! The story arc is incredible and unexpected, so well developed. Gio is the epitome of alpha with swagger for days. Jessie loved her man yet fought to preserve her sense of self to which I totally relate. I chuckled and scowled and clutched my imaginary pearls throughout this whole magic carpet ride. Even though my moral compass diverges from the protagonists’, this is a story of depth and weight.
Whew! This debut is fire! The story arc is incredible and unexpected, so well developed. Gio is the epitome of alpha with swagger for days. Jessie loved her man yet fought to preserve her sense of self to which I totally relate. I chuckled and scowled and clutched my imaginary pearls throughout this whole magic carpet ride. Even though my moral compass diverges from the protagonists’, this is a story of depth and weight.
July 5, 2021
Good read
This was the first time I read this author and I was not disappointed. I loved how crazy Gio was and although Jessie had to find her voice in the end she did. Story flowed nicely and the characters chemistry was hot! Great job!
This was the first time I read this author and I was not disappointed. I loved how crazy Gio was and although Jessie had to find her voice in the end she did. Story flowed nicely and the characters chemistry was hot! Great job!
July 16, 2021
This is my first time reading this authors work and I liked it. I loved every heated toxic moment within this book. I’ll definitely be looking out for more from this author.
Definitely recommended
Definitely recommended
February 22, 2022
I suppose I enjoyed "Inescapable." It took me a significant amount of time to finish it. The story went where I thought it would go, but there were a couple of surprises along the way.
It starts with Jessie and her obsession with "Mr. Fantasy vs. Mr. Menancing." At every mention of those nicknames, I thought my eyes were going to roll out of my head and onto the floor. Soon after learning that they are the same man, she and her friend are abducted, and she spends four months with Giorgio, where he spends the entire time convincing her to stay with him. It's a simple concept and could've been great had Jessie not spent the whole time running away.
Jessie annoyed me for most of the book. Her use of the words "fudge berries" and her refusal to accept Giorgio's love went on and on and soon became repetitive. When she ran away the second time, I almost put the book down for good. I didn't want her to give in to him because he didn't deserve it. However, it felt like we were beating a horse over the head with a stick. The amount of miscommunication between them was unbearable. There's no reason they couldn't talk to each other, especially when Giorgio made sure they spent every waking moment together.
Giorgio was a weak mafia boss. There was nothing about him that caused me to root for him. It's constantly stated that he hides his dark side from Jessie, but we don't get a chance to see it on the page until the end, and even then, he lets his father take on the most brutal acts.
Finally, a "twist" near the end was used to create additional conflict, and it didn't move me at all. When Stephanie meets Jessie again, the moment is soured with a foreshadowing conversation that one came from the wrong character, two led to what felt like a cheap move used for shock value, and three came far too late in the book to make it impactful.
In the end, I did make it to the end. However, this would benefit from being 60-100 pages shorter.
It starts with Jessie and her obsession with "Mr. Fantasy vs. Mr. Menancing." At every mention of those nicknames, I thought my eyes were going to roll out of my head and onto the floor. Soon after learning that they are the same man, she and her friend are abducted, and she spends four months with Giorgio, where he spends the entire time convincing her to stay with him. It's a simple concept and could've been great had Jessie not spent the whole time running away.
Jessie annoyed me for most of the book. Her use of the words "fudge berries" and her refusal to accept Giorgio's love went on and on and soon became repetitive. When she ran away the second time, I almost put the book down for good. I didn't want her to give in to him because he didn't deserve it. However, it felt like we were beating a horse over the head with a stick. The amount of miscommunication between them was unbearable. There's no reason they couldn't talk to each other, especially when Giorgio made sure they spent every waking moment together.
Giorgio was a weak mafia boss. There was nothing about him that caused me to root for him. It's constantly stated that he hides his dark side from Jessie, but we don't get a chance to see it on the page until the end, and even then, he lets his father take on the most brutal acts.
Finally, a "twist" near the end was used to create additional conflict, and it didn't move me at all. When Stephanie meets Jessie again, the moment is soured with a foreshadowing conversation that one came from the wrong character, two led to what felt like a cheap move used for shock value, and three came far too late in the book to make it impactful.
In the end, I did make it to the end. However, this would benefit from being 60-100 pages shorter.
October 2, 2021
Hunh
*****Spoilers****"
Jessie and Gio had a strange beginning and that strange vibe carried through the whole relationship and book. They were a mess, for each other, in their actions, and mutual desire for one another. Jessie runs, Gio finds her before she has the chance to catch her breath from running from him in the first place. Gio is engaged and marries another woman? No problem, it's worked out by way of him not only inviting Jessie to the wedding, which she attended under her own stream, but also by drugging and kidnapping her so that Jessie was on his honeymoon. Gio refused to touch his wife but talk about awkward. Especially when they're caught on numerous occasions by his wife having sex or in the process of having sex most of the trip. There's more of the same head scratching stuff, it's almost comedic but not quite. Nobody is surprised, better said, I wasn't surprised but guessed early on that the wife Gio had to marry due to family obligations and expectations from when they were children, was the one who was causing so many problems for Gio and his business. She, along with the guard who was taken down several pegs and allowed to live by a criminal family. Rrrrrriiiiiiigggghhhht. It caused Jessie to lose their baby since the wife and ex -employee drugged her and left her bleeding out for dead along with the baby. That was pretty sad.
The characters were cray, the situations on this side of unrealistic, and Gio didn't read like a criminal element. Better said, we get a small glimpse of it later in the book and it's unconvincing in my opinion. I hesitate to give the book a 2 but it's borderline.
*****Spoilers****"
Jessie and Gio had a strange beginning and that strange vibe carried through the whole relationship and book. They were a mess, for each other, in their actions, and mutual desire for one another. Jessie runs, Gio finds her before she has the chance to catch her breath from running from him in the first place. Gio is engaged and marries another woman? No problem, it's worked out by way of him not only inviting Jessie to the wedding, which she attended under her own stream, but also by drugging and kidnapping her so that Jessie was on his honeymoon. Gio refused to touch his wife but talk about awkward. Especially when they're caught on numerous occasions by his wife having sex or in the process of having sex most of the trip. There's more of the same head scratching stuff, it's almost comedic but not quite. Nobody is surprised, better said, I wasn't surprised but guessed early on that the wife Gio had to marry due to family obligations and expectations from when they were children, was the one who was causing so many problems for Gio and his business. She, along with the guard who was taken down several pegs and allowed to live by a criminal family. Rrrrrriiiiiiigggghhhht. It caused Jessie to lose their baby since the wife and ex -employee drugged her and left her bleeding out for dead along with the baby. That was pretty sad.
The characters were cray, the situations on this side of unrealistic, and Gio didn't read like a criminal element. Better said, we get a small glimpse of it later in the book and it's unconvincing in my opinion. I hesitate to give the book a 2 but it's borderline.
July 28, 2021
I have so much to say about this book... This review will have spoilers!
When reading the description of this book and reading the first couple of chapters of the novel, I felt invested in the characters, but it no longer felt like a romance novel once I continued to read. Gio is not a likable character and for most of the book, I felt that Jessie was stupid to want someone who only wanted to control her. Bugging her clothes, not allowing her to leave his place, drugging her to bring her on his honeymoon to another woman, having her followed with a guard, and most importantly hiding/switching her birth control to intentionally get her pregnant felt like abuse to me. Jessie would only stay mad for a day or a week at the most, which seems unrealistic and completely improbable.
She seemed like a more cautious, independent, and thoughtful character at the start of the novel but as the book progressed she began to love her abuser. I don't want it to sound like I do not like dark or mafia romance, because I do. But this seemed like too much. When she would escape I would be rooting for her to get away. I don't think I should be feeling that way about the two main characters in a romance.
This will probably be my one and only novel to read by this author. Jessie didn't have a voice, or any control and she willfully gave him that control to be with him.
When reading the description of this book and reading the first couple of chapters of the novel, I felt invested in the characters, but it no longer felt like a romance novel once I continued to read. Gio is not a likable character and for most of the book, I felt that Jessie was stupid to want someone who only wanted to control her. Bugging her clothes, not allowing her to leave his place, drugging her to bring her on his honeymoon to another woman, having her followed with a guard, and most importantly hiding/switching her birth control to intentionally get her pregnant felt like abuse to me. Jessie would only stay mad for a day or a week at the most, which seems unrealistic and completely improbable.
She seemed like a more cautious, independent, and thoughtful character at the start of the novel but as the book progressed she began to love her abuser. I don't want it to sound like I do not like dark or mafia romance, because I do. But this seemed like too much. When she would escape I would be rooting for her to get away. I don't think I should be feeling that way about the two main characters in a romance.
This will probably be my one and only novel to read by this author. Jessie didn't have a voice, or any control and she willfully gave him that control to be with him.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 24, 2021
New Author to Follow!
I really enjoyed this book! The characters were well written. Gio was a true alpha male! Talk about dogged determination! I loved that he had a vision and was sticking to it come hell or high water. It becomes tedious in some books with all the lukewarm feelings and back and forth “I want her, no I don’t want her”. There was none of that in this book. Gio had the perfect balance “monster”, love, steam, and a touch of humor! The runaway girl, Jessie, wore a little bit on me. I had a little bit of eye rolling, sighing “not again!” at times. BUT, I have to say each time it happened, I understood Jessie’s reasoning and root cause for wanting to leave. I think it annoyed me because I liked Gio so much!
This was an EXCELLENT first novel. My experience has been most of the time with 1st novels, they will be thin on plot and character, riddled with errors but that was not the case with this book. I got to end the of the book, quickly clicked “Follow”, signed up for the author newsletter and hoped strongly there would be another book I could get SOON! Well done!
I really enjoyed this book! The characters were well written. Gio was a true alpha male! Talk about dogged determination! I loved that he had a vision and was sticking to it come hell or high water. It becomes tedious in some books with all the lukewarm feelings and back and forth “I want her, no I don’t want her”. There was none of that in this book. Gio had the perfect balance “monster”, love, steam, and a touch of humor! The runaway girl, Jessie, wore a little bit on me. I had a little bit of eye rolling, sighing “not again!” at times. BUT, I have to say each time it happened, I understood Jessie’s reasoning and root cause for wanting to leave. I think it annoyed me because I liked Gio so much!
This was an EXCELLENT first novel. My experience has been most of the time with 1st novels, they will be thin on plot and character, riddled with errors but that was not the case with this book. I got to end the of the book, quickly clicked “Follow”, signed up for the author newsletter and hoped strongly there would be another book I could get SOON! Well done!
May 22, 2022
Wild ride
Ok so here's the thing once I ignore the optics of this Italian man who's preference is blonde blue eye woman parading his Black mistress around I waa able to adjust.
Gio is possessive, dangerous, and a bit unhinged so if you like these characteristics everything he does to get with Jessie. It was a lot. I mean the easiest thing would be to say can I take you out but I guess kidnapping her made more sense. Listen these two are a mess and couldn't keep their hands off each other so it worked out. But man did they go through it.
There was suspense and a plot twist at the end that made this book satisfying, a bit graphic but this is a dark romance. They all need therapy but by the end the way they communicate shifts but man oh man they have a lot of stuff to work through. I still plan to read the series.
CN: kidnapping, cheating, forced abortion (on page), attempted murder, murder, gun violence, emotional and physical abuse, infertility, torture, medical tampering, rough sex, voyeurism, suicide
Ok so here's the thing once I ignore the optics of this Italian man who's preference is blonde blue eye woman parading his Black mistress around I waa able to adjust.
Gio is possessive, dangerous, and a bit unhinged so if you like these characteristics everything he does to get with Jessie. It was a lot. I mean the easiest thing would be to say can I take you out but I guess kidnapping her made more sense. Listen these two are a mess and couldn't keep their hands off each other so it worked out. But man did they go through it.
There was suspense and a plot twist at the end that made this book satisfying, a bit graphic but this is a dark romance. They all need therapy but by the end the way they communicate shifts but man oh man they have a lot of stuff to work through. I still plan to read the series.
CN: kidnapping, cheating, forced abortion (on page), attempted murder, murder, gun violence, emotional and physical abuse, infertility, torture, medical tampering, rough sex, voyeurism, suicide
July 28, 2021
Mafia romance done right!
This was the first book I read by Melverna McFarlane, and I was not disappointed. Ruthless Mafioso Gio Oliveri is delicious wicked, and oh so hot. When Jessie’s best friend offends Gio, he intends to make an example out of her, but what Gio doesn’t expect is an insatiable attraction that has him making compromises to fulfill. Jessie has her life overrun by a Mafia Boss bent upon owning her. She must balance her desire for a man she has lusted over for years with the possibility of losing the very essence of who she is.
This book was a page-turner from the beginning. The romantic language and beautiful prose only enhanced my enjoyment of the story with more twists and turns you were not sure a happily ever after would be possible. I highly recommend this book to romance readers who like strong and intelligent female leads and alphas that you cannot resist.
This was the first book I read by Melverna McFarlane, and I was not disappointed. Ruthless Mafioso Gio Oliveri is delicious wicked, and oh so hot. When Jessie’s best friend offends Gio, he intends to make an example out of her, but what Gio doesn’t expect is an insatiable attraction that has him making compromises to fulfill. Jessie has her life overrun by a Mafia Boss bent upon owning her. She must balance her desire for a man she has lusted over for years with the possibility of losing the very essence of who she is.
This book was a page-turner from the beginning. The romantic language and beautiful prose only enhanced my enjoyment of the story with more twists and turns you were not sure a happily ever after would be possible. I highly recommend this book to romance readers who like strong and intelligent female leads and alphas that you cannot resist.
August 1, 2021
This is my first read by Ms. McFarlane. I have to say that I was very impressed.
Gio is a very interesting man. Like most mafia bosses, he wants what he wants. He hated being insulted. His wrath did not discriminate between men or women. If you crossed him, you were dealt with. Stephanie does the fool, and Jessie is in a situation. Gio offers Jessie an indecent proposal. To save her friend, she accepts. She fails to realize that Gio is dark and pure unadulterated sexiness.
I love Gio! With Jessie, he's cute with a dry sense of humor. He caters to her. Even though, it is beyond his normal character. He's selfish and bold.
Jessie is determined. She doesn't back down. She loves her friends and fights for herself. I liked Jessie's character as well.
This is a good read. There is lots of darkness but light prevails.
Gio is a very interesting man. Like most mafia bosses, he wants what he wants. He hated being insulted. His wrath did not discriminate between men or women. If you crossed him, you were dealt with. Stephanie does the fool, and Jessie is in a situation. Gio offers Jessie an indecent proposal. To save her friend, she accepts. She fails to realize that Gio is dark and pure unadulterated sexiness.
I love Gio! With Jessie, he's cute with a dry sense of humor. He caters to her. Even though, it is beyond his normal character. He's selfish and bold.
Jessie is determined. She doesn't back down. She loves her friends and fights for herself. I liked Jessie's character as well.
This is a good read. There is lots of darkness but light prevails.
January 23, 2022
Inescapable Love
Wow! And wow again! This was truly a fantasy that I have had put into print!
Imagine having a secret fantasy crush on a mobster only to have him actually see you and desire you beyond reason. This is the dilemma that Jesse finds herself in due to crazy circumstances beyond her control!
This story is full of suspense, funny moments and relentless desire. Giorgio is a gangster with an inescapable desire who has the resources to hold on to Jesse at every turn. I love that there was a beginning, middle and end to this story. I love that the author didn't try to squeeze this full bodied story into only a few pages . She gave the story the amount to depth required in order to get the best out of the characters and to leave the reader fully satisfied!
Loved it and can hardly wait for the next book in this series!! Well done!!
Wow! And wow again! This was truly a fantasy that I have had put into print!
Imagine having a secret fantasy crush on a mobster only to have him actually see you and desire you beyond reason. This is the dilemma that Jesse finds herself in due to crazy circumstances beyond her control!
This story is full of suspense, funny moments and relentless desire. Giorgio is a gangster with an inescapable desire who has the resources to hold on to Jesse at every turn. I love that there was a beginning, middle and end to this story. I love that the author didn't try to squeeze this full bodied story into only a few pages . She gave the story the amount to depth required in order to get the best out of the characters and to leave the reader fully satisfied!
Loved it and can hardly wait for the next book in this series!! Well done!!
July 14, 2021
Whew! I was so not ready for Mr. Giorgio Oliveri! Can you say intense? There are not enough words to describe this man, and his insatiable need for his woman, his possessiveness to the point of obsession, then.... there's his dark side! The way Giorgio and Jessie met was wild as hell, but she did not stand a chance against a man like that! Although he was over the top with his need to know her whereabouts at every second, I learned to love his crazy! Jessie tried to fight off her feelings for this dangerous man, but he had her mesmerized, and under his spell in no time. The twists, turns, revelations and "remedying situations", was right on point! This was a long read, but kept my attention throughout. Can't wait to read more about the Oliveri clan! Good read! 👍👍👍
January 4, 2022
Long and good, little dea!!!
First time reading this author and I although this was super long and somewhat boring, it still was good in the grand scheme of things.
Jessica was so getting on my nerves and so annoying that I couldn’t for the life of me figure out what did Gio find in her because it wasn’t much. Then there is Gio in question who was just an average mobster of sort.
This book was more on the personal, family, and romance/love side of a mobster’s life (that’s what I had to tell myself to be able to continue reading).
The guards were perfect and Isabetta was the worst drama ever.
In any case I still believes I will be reading MS. MacFarlane’s work in the future because besides giving us a super weak heroine, it wasn’t too bad after all.
First time reading this author and I although this was super long and somewhat boring, it still was good in the grand scheme of things.
Jessica was so getting on my nerves and so annoying that I couldn’t for the life of me figure out what did Gio find in her because it wasn’t much. Then there is Gio in question who was just an average mobster of sort.
This book was more on the personal, family, and romance/love side of a mobster’s life (that’s what I had to tell myself to be able to continue reading).
The guards were perfect and Isabetta was the worst drama ever.
In any case I still believes I will be reading MS. MacFarlane’s work in the future because besides giving us a super weak heroine, it wasn’t too bad after all.
March 27, 2022
Not your typical love story
I can't say if there is a trigger warning before the story begins, that being said, if there is....read it. Tread lightly, this is some hardcore ship. My man goes full fledge possessive and don't give no effs about anything or ANY ONE in his way. It's not my usual cup of tea and I almost... ALMOST, gave up on finishing this book. But I pressed on and left my usual bias out the door and quite honestly, I enjoyed it. This love is hardcore, raw, weird, borderline freak show. Lol, idk if this will be something I will read again, but I didn't regret it. It did leave me intrigued and I'm looking forward on reading Nico's and 🤞🏾🤞🏾 on Zo's story as well. Enjoy at your risk, but again it's not for the faint heart. Seriously.
I can't say if there is a trigger warning before the story begins, that being said, if there is....read it. Tread lightly, this is some hardcore ship. My man goes full fledge possessive and don't give no effs about anything or ANY ONE in his way. It's not my usual cup of tea and I almost... ALMOST, gave up on finishing this book. But I pressed on and left my usual bias out the door and quite honestly, I enjoyed it. This love is hardcore, raw, weird, borderline freak show. Lol, idk if this will be something I will read again, but I didn't regret it. It did leave me intrigued and I'm looking forward on reading Nico's and 🤞🏾🤞🏾 on Zo's story as well. Enjoy at your risk, but again it's not for the faint heart. Seriously.
August 23, 2023
some spoilers
It was a really good book that had be wanting to throw my book every other chapter ! One I will say is that gio pissed me off more times than I can count he was so unnecessarily annoying most of the time. Like either you want her or ya don’t and I don’t mean spicy ethier we all knew that i me why more so his heart he was so controlling and this was the one time in a book it actually irked me to the fullest but the spicy scenes made up for it cause PHEWWWW the scenes were hot !! And I love Jesse for sticking up for herself not letting him push her around it was amazing to watch ( read ) and the love story was beautiful I can’t lie there over all it’s a great read
It was a really good book that had be wanting to throw my book every other chapter ! One I will say is that gio pissed me off more times than I can count he was so unnecessarily annoying most of the time. Like either you want her or ya don’t and I don’t mean spicy ethier we all knew that i me why more so his heart he was so controlling and this was the one time in a book it actually irked me to the fullest but the spicy scenes made up for it cause PHEWWWW the scenes were hot !! And I love Jesse for sticking up for herself not letting him push her around it was amazing to watch ( read ) and the love story was beautiful I can’t lie there over all it’s a great read
November 3, 2023
Powerful!
Just imagine going out clubbing and your fantasy man is none other than Gil Oliveri! Then imagine your bestie breaking his finger - which you realize that Mr. Fantasy is the mob who decided to break into your house to teach a lesson….However, unbeknownst to Jessie, Gio had a plan that will keep her under lock and key forever…..
This is a great book! If you are looking for a great love story of two people getting to trust, then here’s the winner. McFarlane makes both Gio & Jessie search for the love that’s coming from an obsession to stay whole. While Jessie is held as a prisoner swap, she’s powerless to sex driven obsession Gio has for her. Gio realizes that his sanity lies in this luscious shortie whose vibes are his undoing.
Just imagine going out clubbing and your fantasy man is none other than Gil Oliveri! Then imagine your bestie breaking his finger - which you realize that Mr. Fantasy is the mob who decided to break into your house to teach a lesson….However, unbeknownst to Jessie, Gio had a plan that will keep her under lock and key forever…..
This is a great book! If you are looking for a great love story of two people getting to trust, then here’s the winner. McFarlane makes both Gio & Jessie search for the love that’s coming from an obsession to stay whole. While Jessie is held as a prisoner swap, she’s powerless to sex driven obsession Gio has for her. Gio realizes that his sanity lies in this luscious shortie whose vibes are his undoing.
July 5, 2022
Really Loved it
It’s hard for me to stray away from my favorite authors, but I always try their suggestions! So happy I did! Malverna got it all right! I loved the fact that she ruled a beast and didn’t even know it! I loved how Gio loved her! I loved how he was captured by her even tho she wasn’t in his realm at all! I loved them together and laughed and cried many times! I love the retribution she got! Oh, and I need a Rene’ HEA too cause she was “that friend”!!! Would love another glimpse at their future five as well…very well written! I fully enjoyed this book and will now seek more from this author!
It’s hard for me to stray away from my favorite authors, but I always try their suggestions! So happy I did! Malverna got it all right! I loved the fact that she ruled a beast and didn’t even know it! I loved how Gio loved her! I loved how he was captured by her even tho she wasn’t in his realm at all! I loved them together and laughed and cried many times! I love the retribution she got! Oh, and I need a Rene’ HEA too cause she was “that friend”!!! Would love another glimpse at their future five as well…very well written! I fully enjoyed this book and will now seek more from this author!
January 25, 2024
Jess and Gio
At first I thought Gio was just a big controlling mean narcissist and he is but when it comes to Jessica he's a big teddy bear who would walk through brimstone and fire to keep her safe. Now I know their arrangement started off strange and one sided but eventually Jessie fell for Gio and it hurt her to her core to watch him fulfill his arranged marriage agreement. Gio let his wife to be know before hand that Jessie wasn't going anywhere and she'd just have to deal with it. Yeah that part. If you wanna know how that turned out then you betta crack this book open and get started.💚💚
At first I thought Gio was just a big controlling mean narcissist and he is but when it comes to Jessica he's a big teddy bear who would walk through brimstone and fire to keep her safe. Now I know their arrangement started off strange and one sided but eventually Jessie fell for Gio and it hurt her to her core to watch him fulfill his arranged marriage agreement. Gio let his wife to be know before hand that Jessie wasn't going anywhere and she'd just have to deal with it. Yeah that part. If you wanna know how that turned out then you betta crack this book open and get started.💚💚
July 26, 2021
Opportunity to be good
This story really started off good but it hit a wall for me. The main characters had semi depth that could've been written out better. We all take chances on mafia romance novels, sometimes its a hit or miss. I didn't like the male character at all, there was no growth. Some authors create moments in the book that change my perspective of the story. The moments were there but it wasn't intimate enough for me. I love a twist on weird, kinky, and wtf love.
This story really started off good but it hit a wall for me. The main characters had semi depth that could've been written out better. We all take chances on mafia romance novels, sometimes its a hit or miss. I didn't like the male character at all, there was no growth. Some authors create moments in the book that change my perspective of the story. The moments were there but it wasn't intimate enough for me. I love a twist on weird, kinky, and wtf love.
August 16, 2021
Wow
Jessie Melaney only wanted to keep her friend out of trouble, but she doesn’t realize that bargaining with Giorgio Oliverj is worse than bargaining with the devil. Giorgio is beyond obsessed, and has no intention of letting go.
This was a random find, but as soon as I saw that “Jessica Watkins Presents” I knew it would be fire. And I was right!
This book was a good length and very messy. I loved that. I feel like I really got to know these characters and I could definitely believe their relationship.
I recommend this to anyone who loves obsessed alpha males.
Jessie Melaney only wanted to keep her friend out of trouble, but she doesn’t realize that bargaining with Giorgio Oliverj is worse than bargaining with the devil. Giorgio is beyond obsessed, and has no intention of letting go.
This was a random find, but as soon as I saw that “Jessica Watkins Presents” I knew it would be fire. And I was right!
This book was a good length and very messy. I loved that. I feel like I really got to know these characters and I could definitely believe their relationship.
I recommend this to anyone who loves obsessed alpha males.
October 18, 2022
Kept me riveted
I loved it from beginning to end. I like when Giorgio was attracted to someone that was the total opposite of who he would go for. Their sexual relationship super scorching hot and kept me totally riveted. I learned somethings.☺️ Jessica soften the heart of a tough mafia criminal. Their journey made me laugh and cry. I was really surprised the lengths that Gio would go to to keep her by drugging her and taking her on the yacht along with Isabetta. Again all I can say is I really enjoyed the book.
I loved it from beginning to end. I like when Giorgio was attracted to someone that was the total opposite of who he would go for. Their sexual relationship super scorching hot and kept me totally riveted. I learned somethings.☺️ Jessica soften the heart of a tough mafia criminal. Their journey made me laugh and cry. I was really surprised the lengths that Gio would go to to keep her by drugging her and taking her on the yacht along with Isabetta. Again all I can say is I really enjoyed the book.
April 17, 2024
Alpha Alpha Male
I didn't expect to enjoy this as much as I did because, generally, I do not read a lot of Mafia themed novels. However, the emotional content and suspense were what kept me turning the pages. Jesse and Giorgio's relationship was one of the most intense relationships that I have ever
seen.
There are content warnings at the beginning of the book. The issues that were portrayed added to the suspense in the book. I could not put it down until I finished it. There is a HEA, but boy, did Giorgio and Jesse have to fight for it.
I didn't expect to enjoy this as much as I did because, generally, I do not read a lot of Mafia themed novels. However, the emotional content and suspense were what kept me turning the pages. Jesse and Giorgio's relationship was one of the most intense relationships that I have ever
seen.
There are content warnings at the beginning of the book. The issues that were portrayed added to the suspense in the book. I could not put it down until I finished it. There is a HEA, but boy, did Giorgio and Jesse have to fight for it.
June 12, 2025
Better than expected
The only reason I didn’t give this story a 5 rating is because I’m really not a Mafia fan. Also, the way the two main characters got together was (for me anyway) a stretch to the imagination. If it wasn’t for the beginning, I would have rated this story a solid 5. With that being said, I strongly recommend reading this book because it is absolutely chock full of all the intrigue, danger, jealousy, love and suspense one could ever hope to find in a story. With that being said, it’s definitely worth a solid 4++ rating.
The only reason I didn’t give this story a 5 rating is because I’m really not a Mafia fan. Also, the way the two main characters got together was (for me anyway) a stretch to the imagination. If it wasn’t for the beginning, I would have rated this story a solid 5. With that being said, I strongly recommend reading this book because it is absolutely chock full of all the intrigue, danger, jealousy, love and suspense one could ever hope to find in a story. With that being said, it’s definitely worth a solid 4++ rating.
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