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The Lost Memories of Callum Brecker
Twenty-five year old Ambrose Romano happens across someone from his past, an individual who had once meant the world to him. When that person doesn't recognize him at all, Ambrose makes it his mission, against his better judgement, to help him remember.
Twenty-four year old Callum cannot recall an entire year of his life. When he comes across an alluring man who insists that they know each other, he feels a renewed curiosity of the past. Despite being warned to stay far away from him, Callum can't help but follow Ambrose, determined to uncover his lost memories.
Embarking on this journey proves to be exciting and dangerous. Callum learns that he inadvertently got involved with the mafia and that he fell in love with the son of a prominent member. People close to him were hurt, and he even committed a heinous crime to protect the man he was falling in love with. Now he has to decide-is it worth it, after all, to travel into the past? Is it worth it to remember the person he was?
Twenty-four year old Callum cannot recall an entire year of his life. When he comes across an alluring man who insists that they know each other, he feels a renewed curiosity of the past. Despite being warned to stay far away from him, Callum can't help but follow Ambrose, determined to uncover his lost memories.
Embarking on this journey proves to be exciting and dangerous. Callum learns that he inadvertently got involved with the mafia and that he fell in love with the son of a prominent member. People close to him were hurt, and he even committed a heinous crime to protect the man he was falling in love with. Now he has to decide-is it worth it, after all, to travel into the past? Is it worth it to remember the person he was?
363 pages, Paperback
First published January 7, 2023
5 people are currently reading
232 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
March 26, 2023
I am not into mafia books so this was a welcome change. The title indicates what's at the heart of the story - Callum's lost memories of his younger days. The story is written in two timelines - the present where Callum meets Ambrose and wonders why he feels like he knows him but cannot place it and the past where they first met, became friends and what followed after. I don't want to reveal much about the plot because this is a recently released book but this story did keep me intrigued.
I'll be honest, I don't pick up mafia stories because I avoid "dark" storylines (too much darkness in real life) but this really wasn't what I expected it to be. And I never read blurbs so I had no idea what I was getting myself into. This was heart-touching and heartbreaking at the same time. I did not expect so many feelings and emotions from a mafia book. I liked the slow burn and I loved the found family. The story ended on a cliffhanger.
I have followed the author on Instagram for a long time, since when she was only a bookstagrammar and there were no mentions of writing a book as far as I recall, and I am glad to see the transition. Promising debut. Definitely recommended.
I'll be honest, I don't pick up mafia stories because I avoid "dark" storylines (too much darkness in real life) but this really wasn't what I expected it to be. And I never read blurbs so I had no idea what I was getting myself into. This was heart-touching and heartbreaking at the same time. I did not expect so many feelings and emotions from a mafia book. I liked the slow burn and I loved the found family. The story ended on a cliffhanger.
I have followed the author on Instagram for a long time, since when she was only a bookstagrammar and there were no mentions of writing a book as far as I recall, and I am glad to see the transition. Promising debut. Definitely recommended.
January 25, 2023
Omg why did I read this before book 2 was released? Extreme cliffhanger ending.
December 29, 2022
I may be biased. Anyway, release day is coming soon so I'll probably nervously stay away from Goodreads for the foreseeable future. 🤣 I hope you enjoy my book. 🖤💚
December 26, 2022
Mul on hea meel, et mul oli võimalus seda raamatut lugeda. Ambrose’i ja Callumi slow burn romance oli nii armas, aga samas ka väga pingeline. Alguses võttis mul veidi aega, et loosse sisse elada, aga kui ma siis lõpuks hoogu sattusin, ei saanud ma seda enam käest ära panna ja lugesin poole ööni.
Teisest küljest oli see üks väga poolik lugu. Ma olin eelnevalt juba mõnda reviewd lugenud ja seega veidi teadsin, mida oodata. Poleks ma seda teadnud, ma oleks väga pahane olnud selle cliffhangeri peale, millega raamat lõppes. Ma ei ole vist üldse maffia teemalisi raamatuid lugenud, aga ma oleksin oodanud veidi rohkem mingeid vastuseid.. See muidugi ei ole kuidagi seotud sellega, et maffia 😅 Samas aga mulle väga meeldis see lugu, isegi kui vb nii ei tundi. Vahepeal oli natuke kurb ja paar korda oli veits rõve ka.
Ma täiega armusin ise ka ära mõlemasse peategelasse. Lihtne see lugu ei ole ja ma veidi pelgan, mis kõik neid veel ees ootamas on, sest selle raamatu põhjal võib järeldada, et lihtne see teekond tagasi (kas üldse??) üksteise juurde olema ei saa. See on alles sarja esimene osa ja seega on, mida oodata.
*
I’m glad I had a chance to read that book. At first I took some time to get used to it, but when I finally fell into the story I couldn’t put it down anymore. I loved Ambrose and Callum’s slow burn romance and I fell for both of them as well. It’s not a simple nor easy story and I feel like it will be even more complex in the future, but I do hope they’ll find their way back to each other. Someday..
But even tho I really liked it, it felt like only half of the story. I know it is the first book in the series, but still I would have liked more answers.. Since I’ve already read some reviews I knew what to expect and I knew it’ll end with a major cliffhanger, but… I don’t know.. I still wanted more? Anyway, please do read it! I really liked it, even tho it might not seem this way 😄 It will be published on January 7th, 2023.
Teisest küljest oli see üks väga poolik lugu. Ma olin eelnevalt juba mõnda reviewd lugenud ja seega veidi teadsin, mida oodata. Poleks ma seda teadnud, ma oleks väga pahane olnud selle cliffhangeri peale, millega raamat lõppes. Ma ei ole vist üldse maffia teemalisi raamatuid lugenud, aga ma oleksin oodanud veidi rohkem mingeid vastuseid.. See muidugi ei ole kuidagi seotud sellega, et maffia 😅 Samas aga mulle väga meeldis see lugu, isegi kui vb nii ei tundi. Vahepeal oli natuke kurb ja paar korda oli veits rõve ka.
Ma täiega armusin ise ka ära mõlemasse peategelasse. Lihtne see lugu ei ole ja ma veidi pelgan, mis kõik neid veel ees ootamas on, sest selle raamatu põhjal võib järeldada, et lihtne see teekond tagasi (kas üldse??) üksteise juurde olema ei saa. See on alles sarja esimene osa ja seega on, mida oodata.
*
I’m glad I had a chance to read that book. At first I took some time to get used to it, but when I finally fell into the story I couldn’t put it down anymore. I loved Ambrose and Callum’s slow burn romance and I fell for both of them as well. It’s not a simple nor easy story and I feel like it will be even more complex in the future, but I do hope they’ll find their way back to each other. Someday..
But even tho I really liked it, it felt like only half of the story. I know it is the first book in the series, but still I would have liked more answers.. Since I’ve already read some reviews I knew what to expect and I knew it’ll end with a major cliffhanger, but… I don’t know.. I still wanted more? Anyway, please do read it! I really liked it, even tho it might not seem this way 😄 It will be published on January 7th, 2023.
December 14, 2022
Holy shit this book was incredible and I need the next one immediately. I'm reeling from that ending.
The mafia bad boy and shy completely oblivious new kid trope was so beautifully done. Where he's his only weakness? Stunning. I was rooting for Callum and Ambrose the entire time.
I loved the entire friend group and how protective they are of each other.
This romance will keep you on your toes as they fight for each other.
The mafia bad boy and shy completely oblivious new kid trope was so beautifully done. Where he's his only weakness? Stunning. I was rooting for Callum and Ambrose the entire time.
I loved the entire friend group and how protective they are of each other.
This romance will keep you on your toes as they fight for each other.
January 18, 2023
Oh lord. Oh lord. Oh lord. What an amazing way to help kick off the year. I have so many emotions right now that I can’t even write a proper review (not that I normally do). This book was literally so amazing. Ambrose. Ambrose. Ambrose. What a guy. I love him. I love all of them. This was perfection. I’m jittery and have no mental capacity after reading that to convey how I feel. All the emotions are just taking over my body.
January 28, 2023
Back again with Pride Book Tours, this time for mafia romance The Lost Memories of Callum Brecker! This book was quick and tense, especially when you near the end and realize there is NO way it is wrapping up the story. Pleased there will be a next book to read but also would very much like that book right now!
If you read any Mafia manhwa, I would compare this to Max Mojave's Case or Dangerous Convience Store. Very much "this cinnamon roll does not belong here!" vibes. Clearly there is the memory loss aspect with is quite popular in the genre as well.
For those that don't binge-read Korean comics, this is a darker, New Adult, queer romance with some glorious demi rep. You know I'm always looking out for some Ace spectrum rep, and it's just so fact of the matter about it. The tension holds up throughout, giving it thriller/action vibes as well. Having the time switch also makes the reader (here meaning me definitely me) worry so much about one shorty kid we know is said to be dead but we hope is just hiding...
If you read any Mafia manhwa, I would compare this to Max Mojave's Case or Dangerous Convience Store. Very much "this cinnamon roll does not belong here!" vibes. Clearly there is the memory loss aspect with is quite popular in the genre as well.
For those that don't binge-read Korean comics, this is a darker, New Adult, queer romance with some glorious demi rep. You know I'm always looking out for some Ace spectrum rep, and it's just so fact of the matter about it. The tension holds up throughout, giving it thriller/action vibes as well. Having the time switch also makes the reader (here meaning me definitely me) worry so much about one shorty kid we know is said to be dead but we hope is just hiding...
April 1, 2023
I love everything about this book!
I was so lucky to read an early version of this book and fall in love with both Callum and Ambrose. They’re both complex characters in a cruel world and their love story isn’t your typical boy meets boy etc. There is more to it- heartache, pain, misunderstanding- but there’s also this great love and deep respect that draws the two back to each other time after time.
Well done on a wonderful debut Marilyn!
I was so lucky to read an early version of this book and fall in love with both Callum and Ambrose. They’re both complex characters in a cruel world and their love story isn’t your typical boy meets boy etc. There is more to it- heartache, pain, misunderstanding- but there’s also this great love and deep respect that draws the two back to each other time after time.
Well done on a wonderful debut Marilyn!
December 16, 2022
Thank you so much to Marilyn Bordelon and spectrum books for gifting me an earc of the book🥰
The lost memories of Callum Brecker is the first in a series, publish date is January 7th 2023 and people PLEASE GO AND READ THIS AS SOON AS IT COMES OUT. I devoured this book and simply could not put it down.
In part one we get an introduction to the current timeline where Callum has no memories of his 17th year, Ambrose bumps into Callum and is surprised to find he doesn’t remember a single thing of their relationship or the events surrounding it. Ambrose is the ultimate morally grey sexy character, son of a mafia boss who would quite literally kill for the people he cares about - however he is also such a sweetheart it is hard not to love him.
The other 2 parts to this book take us back to the year that Callum and Ambrose met. Their slow burn romance was honestly the cutest to read. I especially LOVED the whole cast of characters, the friendship group within this book reminded me of that in RW&RB - just pure supportive friends who love eachother despite their flaws. There’s some serious LGBTQIA+ rep and it melts my heart. Callum is demisexual which I just don’t think there’s enough rep in literature so I really really liked this<3
I don’t want to ruin anything so there’s not much more I can say! But but but please go and read this, the book ends on a super big cliffhanger both in the past and present timeline so I will be (in)patiently waiting for the next one. I adored getting to know Callum and Ambrose through the memories of the past and hope to see more of the present timeline in the next book!🥰
⚠️CW: amnesia, anxiety, child abuse, child neglect, death of family members, drug abuse, gun violence, homophobia, murder, trauma, violence
The lost memories of Callum Brecker is the first in a series, publish date is January 7th 2023 and people PLEASE GO AND READ THIS AS SOON AS IT COMES OUT. I devoured this book and simply could not put it down.
In part one we get an introduction to the current timeline where Callum has no memories of his 17th year, Ambrose bumps into Callum and is surprised to find he doesn’t remember a single thing of their relationship or the events surrounding it. Ambrose is the ultimate morally grey sexy character, son of a mafia boss who would quite literally kill for the people he cares about - however he is also such a sweetheart it is hard not to love him.
The other 2 parts to this book take us back to the year that Callum and Ambrose met. Their slow burn romance was honestly the cutest to read. I especially LOVED the whole cast of characters, the friendship group within this book reminded me of that in RW&RB - just pure supportive friends who love eachother despite their flaws. There’s some serious LGBTQIA+ rep and it melts my heart. Callum is demisexual which I just don’t think there’s enough rep in literature so I really really liked this<3
I don’t want to ruin anything so there’s not much more I can say! But but but please go and read this, the book ends on a super big cliffhanger both in the past and present timeline so I will be (in)patiently waiting for the next one. I adored getting to know Callum and Ambrose through the memories of the past and hope to see more of the present timeline in the next book!🥰
⚠️CW: amnesia, anxiety, child abuse, child neglect, death of family members, drug abuse, gun violence, homophobia, murder, trauma, violence
January 5, 2023
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A fantastic debut novel by Marilyn Bordelon. It’s a mafia story, so you know, expect all that comes with the Mafia! At times dark and disturbing. But it also has the lightness and innocence of teenagers captured within it.
What I loved most was the structure. We start in the present day, seeing them as they are after events that irrevocably changed them. Callum and Ambrose meet again after years apart, except Callum has no idea who he is, yet there is still a draw. We feel the frustration for Callum not being able to remember while others still do but refuse to tell him.
We then return to the past. To them meeting as teenagers. Becoming friends. Becoming more than friends. Callum discovering that Ambrose’s family is part of the Mafia. Why they are forced apart. The time that Callum has lost. It’s heart pumping, and heartbreaking.
Returning to the present. The heartbeat of the past still beating strong. Then it ends. Ends. Damn cliffhangers! I hope the rest comes out soon. I need to know how they find their way trough.
If you love the Mafia, forbidden romances, and high levels of pinning you’ll enjoy this.
A fantastic debut novel by Marilyn Bordelon. It’s a mafia story, so you know, expect all that comes with the Mafia! At times dark and disturbing. But it also has the lightness and innocence of teenagers captured within it.
What I loved most was the structure. We start in the present day, seeing them as they are after events that irrevocably changed them. Callum and Ambrose meet again after years apart, except Callum has no idea who he is, yet there is still a draw. We feel the frustration for Callum not being able to remember while others still do but refuse to tell him.
We then return to the past. To them meeting as teenagers. Becoming friends. Becoming more than friends. Callum discovering that Ambrose’s family is part of the Mafia. Why they are forced apart. The time that Callum has lost. It’s heart pumping, and heartbreaking.
Returning to the present. The heartbeat of the past still beating strong. Then it ends. Ends. Damn cliffhangers! I hope the rest comes out soon. I need to know how they find their way trough.
If you love the Mafia, forbidden romances, and high levels of pinning you’ll enjoy this.
November 21, 2022
A violently thrilling read! I was left speechless, in tears, and ready for more. Amazing character development, you can reach out and touch them! You become a part of these characters story, their lives - it's beautiful and heart-wrenching!
April 28, 2023
Oh my, what a rollercoaster of a book! I'm struggling to catch my breath!
In her stellar debut, Marilyn Bordelon introduces us to the world of the Romano family—one that Ambrose Romano would give anything to escape, as well as one Callum Brecker doesn't know he's about to fall into. There's one entire year in Callum's life that he's unable to remember; diagnosed with Dissociative Amnesia, he lives with his aunt and the painful absence of his two cousins and best friends, and is just trying to get by. But when he crosses paths with one Ambrose Romano, Ambrose seems to know him. From there on, we're catapulted into what happened seven years ago, back when Callum and Ambrose first met... And first fell in love.
As the blurb states, this was a mafia read, which meant that the stakes were permanently high, and the thrill was neverending. This book had me at the edge of my seat, turning the pages and dying to see where the story went next! What was THAT ending, though!? Are you serious!? Where's the rest of the booook, I need to know what's coming! This isn't a book that will leave anyone indifferent.
The main characters, Ambrose and Callum, are complex and multi-faceted. I loved how Bordelon made sure to build three-dimensional characters, with their flaws as well as their virtues, and if I had to choose a favourite, that would be Cal—by a narrow margin. Although not stated explicitly, Callum is neurodivergent (my best guess is, he's autistic, and has low support needs) as well as demisexual, and I felt very safe and seen while reading about him. Not only was he a sweet boy who just wanted everyone to be okay; he soon became a fierce protector of all the people he holds dear. As he descended into the dark pit of the mafia, Callum slowly left his halo of innocence and purity behind, and I had my heart full of worry and affection for him! On the other hand, there's Ambrose, who struggles so much to live the life he's been born into. As a mafia member's son and heir, there are some things he can't have; and some things he can't refuse. His side of the story was filled with angst, self-conflicting feelings, and the underlying need to do as much good as his position allowed him to. He has to be the most endearing mafia MC I've ever read about! Their romance was slow to start, and quick to burn with passion and love.
In terms of the plot, the story starts out introducing what the present looks like for Callum and Ambrose—who just crossed paths again after sever years apart, even if only one of them remembers this—, and soon turns back time to narrate how things went when they were teenagers. In this sense, I would've liked to see a little more of the present once we started getting bits about the past, since after a certain point we never heard about it again.
Overall, this was an incredible read, and I can't wait for the next part!!!
In her stellar debut, Marilyn Bordelon introduces us to the world of the Romano family—one that Ambrose Romano would give anything to escape, as well as one Callum Brecker doesn't know he's about to fall into. There's one entire year in Callum's life that he's unable to remember; diagnosed with Dissociative Amnesia, he lives with his aunt and the painful absence of his two cousins and best friends, and is just trying to get by. But when he crosses paths with one Ambrose Romano, Ambrose seems to know him. From there on, we're catapulted into what happened seven years ago, back when Callum and Ambrose first met... And first fell in love.
As the blurb states, this was a mafia read, which meant that the stakes were permanently high, and the thrill was neverending. This book had me at the edge of my seat, turning the pages and dying to see where the story went next! What was THAT ending, though!? Are you serious!? Where's the rest of the booook, I need to know what's coming! This isn't a book that will leave anyone indifferent.
The main characters, Ambrose and Callum, are complex and multi-faceted. I loved how Bordelon made sure to build three-dimensional characters, with their flaws as well as their virtues, and if I had to choose a favourite, that would be Cal—by a narrow margin. Although not stated explicitly, Callum is neurodivergent (my best guess is, he's autistic, and has low support needs) as well as demisexual, and I felt very safe and seen while reading about him. Not only was he a sweet boy who just wanted everyone to be okay; he soon became a fierce protector of all the people he holds dear. As he descended into the dark pit of the mafia, Callum slowly left his halo of innocence and purity behind, and I had my heart full of worry and affection for him! On the other hand, there's Ambrose, who struggles so much to live the life he's been born into. As a mafia member's son and heir, there are some things he can't have; and some things he can't refuse. His side of the story was filled with angst, self-conflicting feelings, and the underlying need to do as much good as his position allowed him to. He has to be the most endearing mafia MC I've ever read about! Their romance was slow to start, and quick to burn with passion and love.
In terms of the plot, the story starts out introducing what the present looks like for Callum and Ambrose—who just crossed paths again after sever years apart, even if only one of them remembers this—, and soon turns back time to narrate how things went when they were teenagers. In this sense, I would've liked to see a little more of the present once we started getting bits about the past, since after a certain point we never heard about it again.
Overall, this was an incredible read, and I can't wait for the next part!!!
June 3, 2023
Holy. Cow.
The Lost Memories of Callum Brecker had me hooked right off the bat with its intriguing premise and loveable, yet, as you'll come to find, morally questionable characters. The author weaves a tale of suspense, romance, and heartache centered around the mafia that leaves us yearning for more. (That cliffhanger was CRIMINAL.)
The story's format uses both a past and present timeline, and its seamless transition further amplifies the mystery of it all, leaving the audience on the edge of their seats as they speculate on the questions raised at the beginning of the book and compelling them to read further for answers.
And don't even get me started on the gay romance. All I have to say is... *chef's kiss* Well done.
With themes of love, found family, and plenty of queer representation, this novel truly has something for everyone and was an absolute joy to read. Words cannot portray the scream I scrumpt when I finished it. Needless to say, I will be anxiously awaiting the sequel! 🤩
The Lost Memories of Callum Brecker had me hooked right off the bat with its intriguing premise and loveable, yet, as you'll come to find, morally questionable characters. The author weaves a tale of suspense, romance, and heartache centered around the mafia that leaves us yearning for more. (That cliffhanger was CRIMINAL.)
The story's format uses both a past and present timeline, and its seamless transition further amplifies the mystery of it all, leaving the audience on the edge of their seats as they speculate on the questions raised at the beginning of the book and compelling them to read further for answers.
And don't even get me started on the gay romance. All I have to say is... *chef's kiss* Well done.
With themes of love, found family, and plenty of queer representation, this novel truly has something for everyone and was an absolute joy to read. Words cannot portray the scream I scrumpt when I finished it. Needless to say, I will be anxiously awaiting the sequel! 🤩
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 18, 2022
The characters feel so close and real, and the plot, I just can't stop thinking about it. I NEED to know what happens next! I am head over heels in love with everything about this book. Ambrose and Callum will always be in my heart 🖤🖤🖤
January 6, 2023
Disclaimer: I received this e-arc from the publisher. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Book: The Lost Memories of Callum Brecker
Author: Marilyn Bordelon
Book Series: The Lost Memories of Callum Brecker Book 1
Rating: 4/5
Spice: 1/5
Diversity: Japanese descent character, Demisexual MC, Gay MC, Gay characters
Recommended For...: romance, mafia romance, LGBT, MLM
Publication Date: December 18, 2022
Genre: Mafia Romance
Age Relevance: 16+ (language, violence, murder, grief, death, parental death, homophobia, romance, child abuse, child neglect, drug abuse, torture, sexual content, religion, underage alcohol consumption, alcohol consumption)
Explanation of Above: There is a lot of cursing in this book. There are scenes of violence, including gun and other weapon violence, torture, murder, and death. There is grief displayed in the book as well as parental death mentioned. There are some scenes of homophobia and the book discusses coming out a little bit. There is romance and some small mentions of sexual content. There are mentions and small scenes of child abuse and neglect. There is one scene showing drug abuse, mentions of underage alcohol consumption, and one scene of alcohol consumption. There are a couple of mentions of Christianity and one scene with a prayer shown.
Publisher: Spectrum Publishing
Pages: 310
Synopsis: Twenty-five year old Ambrose Romano happens across someone from his past, an individual who had once meant the world to him. When that person doesn’t recognize him at all, Ambrose makes it his mission, against his better judgement, to help him remember.
Twenty-four year old Callum Brecker cannot recall an entire year of his life. When he comes across an alluring man who insists that they know each other, he feels a renewed curiosity of the past. Despite being warned to stay far away from him, Callum can’t help but follow Ambrose, determined to uncover his lost memories.
Embarking on this journey proves to be exciting and dangerous. Through it, Callum learns that he inadvertently got involved with the Mafia and that he fell in love with the son of a prominent member. People close to him were hurt and he even committed a heinous crime to protect the man he was falling in love with.
Now he has to decide—is it worth it, after all, to travel into the past? Is it worth it to remember the person he was?
Review: I thought this was a fun little beginning to a great series. The book is in part a Mafia Romance and in part a thriller. The book revolves around our MC Callum and their memory loss. They’ve lost a year of their life. Our other MC is Ambrose, who is the former boyfriend of Callum except that Callum doesn’t remember them anymore. The book explores their relationship in a past/present format and the reader sees how they started their romance and where it was headed in the end. The book is Duel POV and does well to discuss coming out and finding yourself.
However, I did wish that some of the world building and character development was a bit more fleshed out. The book felt a little confusing at times with the back and forth method as well.
Verdict: It’s good! I recommend if you’re looking for a non-erotic Mafia Romance.
Book: The Lost Memories of Callum Brecker
Author: Marilyn Bordelon
Book Series: The Lost Memories of Callum Brecker Book 1
Rating: 4/5
Spice: 1/5
Diversity: Japanese descent character, Demisexual MC, Gay MC, Gay characters
Recommended For...: romance, mafia romance, LGBT, MLM
Publication Date: December 18, 2022
Genre: Mafia Romance
Age Relevance: 16+ (language, violence, murder, grief, death, parental death, homophobia, romance, child abuse, child neglect, drug abuse, torture, sexual content, religion, underage alcohol consumption, alcohol consumption)
Explanation of Above: There is a lot of cursing in this book. There are scenes of violence, including gun and other weapon violence, torture, murder, and death. There is grief displayed in the book as well as parental death mentioned. There are some scenes of homophobia and the book discusses coming out a little bit. There is romance and some small mentions of sexual content. There are mentions and small scenes of child abuse and neglect. There is one scene showing drug abuse, mentions of underage alcohol consumption, and one scene of alcohol consumption. There are a couple of mentions of Christianity and one scene with a prayer shown.
Publisher: Spectrum Publishing
Pages: 310
Synopsis: Twenty-five year old Ambrose Romano happens across someone from his past, an individual who had once meant the world to him. When that person doesn’t recognize him at all, Ambrose makes it his mission, against his better judgement, to help him remember.
Twenty-four year old Callum Brecker cannot recall an entire year of his life. When he comes across an alluring man who insists that they know each other, he feels a renewed curiosity of the past. Despite being warned to stay far away from him, Callum can’t help but follow Ambrose, determined to uncover his lost memories.
Embarking on this journey proves to be exciting and dangerous. Through it, Callum learns that he inadvertently got involved with the Mafia and that he fell in love with the son of a prominent member. People close to him were hurt and he even committed a heinous crime to protect the man he was falling in love with.
Now he has to decide—is it worth it, after all, to travel into the past? Is it worth it to remember the person he was?
Review: I thought this was a fun little beginning to a great series. The book is in part a Mafia Romance and in part a thriller. The book revolves around our MC Callum and their memory loss. They’ve lost a year of their life. Our other MC is Ambrose, who is the former boyfriend of Callum except that Callum doesn’t remember them anymore. The book explores their relationship in a past/present format and the reader sees how they started their romance and where it was headed in the end. The book is Duel POV and does well to discuss coming out and finding yourself.
However, I did wish that some of the world building and character development was a bit more fleshed out. The book felt a little confusing at times with the back and forth method as well.
Verdict: It’s good! I recommend if you’re looking for a non-erotic Mafia Romance.
June 11, 2023
Thank you so much to the author and Hazel’s Booktours for sharing a copy of this book with me!
Trigger Warnings: mÄfia, violence, 💀, h0moph0bía, dissociative amnesia, punishment, $exual ãbú$e
“We have each other,” Lucas whispered. “We’ll be okay.”
Unexpectedly intriguing and even spicy. This was a dark mæfia romance with heavy themes such as h0moph0bia and 💀 but also a story of an impossible love you would do everything in your power for. Ambrose and Callum’s story was complicated, dark but also sweet right in those moments when they both needed it the most!! And the found family theme in this book was pretty great especially considering how they all had each other’s back, keeping all those secrets to protect one another.
I loved how we got to experience a moment of their present and then understand what kind of events led to that!!! If I was asked to use a trope I would definitely say friends to lovers to strangers to lovers … although I have to admit … that ending kinda made me reconsider what I thought I knew !!!!! I am pretty intrigued by the next book !!!
Trigger Warnings: mÄfia, violence, 💀, h0moph0bía, dissociative amnesia, punishment, $exual ãbú$e
“We have each other,” Lucas whispered. “We’ll be okay.”
Unexpectedly intriguing and even spicy. This was a dark mæfia romance with heavy themes such as h0moph0bia and 💀 but also a story of an impossible love you would do everything in your power for. Ambrose and Callum’s story was complicated, dark but also sweet right in those moments when they both needed it the most!! And the found family theme in this book was pretty great especially considering how they all had each other’s back, keeping all those secrets to protect one another.
I loved how we got to experience a moment of their present and then understand what kind of events led to that!!! If I was asked to use a trope I would definitely say friends to lovers to strangers to lovers … although I have to admit … that ending kinda made me reconsider what I thought I knew !!!!! I am pretty intrigued by the next book !!!
July 20, 2023
This is the first book I've read by this author and the first in a new series, The Romano Crime Family Series.
I believe this is a debut novel too but honestly, you'd never tell.
This was completely not what I expected but I loved it!
Be aware that this is not a book for the sensitive among you.
There's rather a lot of heavy goings on, but that's to be expected in a gang themed story and it was brilliantly written and presented within the story. Not excessive.
I adored the premise of this book.
Callum has lost the memory of a year of his life - but it happens that a lot happened in that year....and Ambrose is around to make him remember.
Ambrose is the son of a prominent crime family member and so when he and Callum met and fell in love, Callum was dragged into all sorts of chaos that put him and others at risk.
Now he has to choose whether to get dragged in and remember - will love rule his head?
I loved the mix of the crime family scenes and the romantic scenes.
I fell in love with the boys - they were just made for each other. So difficult when family puts pressure on that relationship.
The writing style had me gripped from the start and I raced through this. I did feel that it ended rather abruptly, but I'm guessing that's leading us into book 2 ....and I can't wait to see where the journey takes the boys next.....
I believe this is a debut novel too but honestly, you'd never tell.
This was completely not what I expected but I loved it!
Be aware that this is not a book for the sensitive among you.
There's rather a lot of heavy goings on, but that's to be expected in a gang themed story and it was brilliantly written and presented within the story. Not excessive.
I adored the premise of this book.
Callum has lost the memory of a year of his life - but it happens that a lot happened in that year....and Ambrose is around to make him remember.
Ambrose is the son of a prominent crime family member and so when he and Callum met and fell in love, Callum was dragged into all sorts of chaos that put him and others at risk.
Now he has to choose whether to get dragged in and remember - will love rule his head?
I loved the mix of the crime family scenes and the romantic scenes.
I fell in love with the boys - they were just made for each other. So difficult when family puts pressure on that relationship.
The writing style had me gripped from the start and I raced through this. I did feel that it ended rather abruptly, but I'm guessing that's leading us into book 2 ....and I can't wait to see where the journey takes the boys next.....
January 11, 2023
messy review!!!
i received an arc from the author and i feel horrible for not loving this book, especially since marilyn seems like such a sweet person.
already from the first chapter the writing style got to me. it's very rare that writing bothers me but all the telling instead of showing kinda puts you at a distance from the characters.
i think i would've liked this book more if it was just set in the present. like instead of having full chapter flashbacks have callum remember things, because it kinda makes it feel like i'm reading two different books. i also liked the setup for part one a lot more, and if the whole book had been like that i think it would've been really good.
callum and ambrose, i just didn't feel it. ambroses possessive behaviour doesn't make it better.
i don't easily get uncomfortable reading books but large parts of this book did just that and i can't decide if it's a good thing or not
this is the only mafia based book I've read aside from all for the game and idk i don't think it's my cup of tea
the first part of this book really reminds me of the documentary 'tell me who i am' if you haven't watched it, do it! it's really good and this book brings up the same dilemma as the documentary and im still just as torn
i cannot express my happiness when i saw that this is only part one in a series and despite everything im still gonna read the sequel. this book has a lot of potential and i honestly think a second book can help it live up to that potential.
i received an arc from the author and i feel horrible for not loving this book, especially since marilyn seems like such a sweet person.
already from the first chapter the writing style got to me. it's very rare that writing bothers me but all the telling instead of showing kinda puts you at a distance from the characters.
i think i would've liked this book more if it was just set in the present. like instead of having full chapter flashbacks have callum remember things, because it kinda makes it feel like i'm reading two different books. i also liked the setup for part one a lot more, and if the whole book had been like that i think it would've been really good.
callum and ambrose, i just didn't feel it. ambroses possessive behaviour doesn't make it better.
i don't easily get uncomfortable reading books but large parts of this book did just that and i can't decide if it's a good thing or not
this is the only mafia based book I've read aside from all for the game and idk i don't think it's my cup of tea
the first part of this book really reminds me of the documentary 'tell me who i am' if you haven't watched it, do it! it's really good and this book brings up the same dilemma as the documentary and im still just as torn
i cannot express my happiness when i saw that this is only part one in a series and despite everything im still gonna read the sequel. this book has a lot of potential and i honestly think a second book can help it live up to that potential.
December 31, 2022
An interesting read with so many plot twists and turns. I couldn’t put it down and I need answers, book two, hurry up!
Whilst I was highly engaged, I couldn’t wholly love this book.
Mafia romance and cinnamon roll characters!
Whilst I was highly engaged, I couldn’t wholly love this book.
Mafia romance and cinnamon roll characters!
January 6, 2023
Noooo! Not a cliffhanger ending 😭😭
March 11, 2023
WOW!! What a debut novel this was by this author. I was hooked from the first page and devoured this in one sitting. What a story.
Why oh why did i read this not knowing the second book was out yet but saying that i have something to look forwards to as the need i feel to continue these books is going to be with me. This is not your typical boy meets boy book as this is a complex story in a cruel mafia world with Callum having no memories for the time seven years ago when he met Ambrose.
This book starts in part one when they are both twenty five and Ambrose goes into a club and finds Callum working behind the bar, but Callum has no clue who Ambrose is, this starts Ambrose trying to find out how this happened and what is going on.
Part two of the book goes back in time to the time seven years ago that these two characters met and the slow burn romance that started between these two, it was heart breaking at times as being in the mafia is cruel and Callum was just a sweetheart that didn't realise how cruel Ambrose father was to his own son.
That ending was a huge cliff hanger but even so i can't recommend this book enough if you love a cruel mafia MM read do pick this up as you will not be disappointed at all, you will become addicted trust me, plus the next book is out soon. Brilliant.
Why oh why did i read this not knowing the second book was out yet but saying that i have something to look forwards to as the need i feel to continue these books is going to be with me. This is not your typical boy meets boy book as this is a complex story in a cruel mafia world with Callum having no memories for the time seven years ago when he met Ambrose.
This book starts in part one when they are both twenty five and Ambrose goes into a club and finds Callum working behind the bar, but Callum has no clue who Ambrose is, this starts Ambrose trying to find out how this happened and what is going on.
Part two of the book goes back in time to the time seven years ago that these two characters met and the slow burn romance that started between these two, it was heart breaking at times as being in the mafia is cruel and Callum was just a sweetheart that didn't realise how cruel Ambrose father was to his own son.
That ending was a huge cliff hanger but even so i can't recommend this book enough if you love a cruel mafia MM read do pick this up as you will not be disappointed at all, you will become addicted trust me, plus the next book is out soon. Brilliant.
February 18, 2025
Rose Marilee's The Lost Memories of Callum Brecker is simply amazing. It's one of my favorite mm novels and I was lucky to have purchased it in paperback.
I tried messaging the author, but I'm not sure she saw it. I really hope that there will be a sequel one day.
I tried messaging the author, but I'm not sure she saw it. I really hope that there will be a sequel one day.
March 10, 2023
Love the inclusivity.
A tame romance with a lot of heart and an intriguing storyline that keeps pace. Mild spice and beautiful writing.
A tame romance with a lot of heart and an intriguing storyline that keeps pace. Mild spice and beautiful writing.
December 9, 2022
The Lost Memories of Callum Brecker is a gay Mafia thriller with a twist. Callum Brecker cannot recall a year of his life after a traumatic incident seven years ago during his senior year in high school that resulted in one of his stepbrothers going missing and the other dead. But when he has a chance encounter with a vaguely familiar man, things start to shake loose. Ambrose Romano is the heir to a prominent member of the Mafia family. When he accidentally meets up with the boy who meant so much to him all those years ago, he accidentally on purpose trigger’s Callum’s memories.
First and foremost, I think it’s important to disclose that this is an incomplete story and ends on a cliffhanger with none of the mystery revealed yet. The summary above describes the first quarter to a third of the book, then the story jumps back to a seven years ago when Callum and Ambrose first meet and races towards the “incident” but ends right before it happens. It’s a bit frustrating when I didn’t even realize this was a first in a series so it’s best to know what you are getting into.
The first part of the book set in the present sets up the mystery of Callum’s missing memories quite well (although it does require some suspension of disbelief at the sheer unlikelihood of it). But once the book got to the flashback part, it started feeling like the mafia story I was expecting. It’s a bit dark with violence and murder, but not overly descriptive or gratuitous.
The slowburn romance between Callum and Ambrose was indeed that—slow and smoldering (but with very little spice). I really liked Callum as a character, with his childhood trauma and fear of being a burden playing a large role in how he is as a teen living with his step family. I really enjoyed the dynamic he has with his step brothers Meanwhile, Ambrose struggles with the role he is forced to play in his criminal family as well as having to hide his sexuality. When things start to heat up despite Callum’s obliviousness and Ambrose’s restraint, the book manages to keep on teasing by ending it right there.
The Lost Memories of Callum Brecker delivers a slowburn Mafia romance that is in desperate need of its sequel.
First and foremost, I think it’s important to disclose that this is an incomplete story and ends on a cliffhanger with none of the mystery revealed yet. The summary above describes the first quarter to a third of the book, then the story jumps back to a seven years ago when Callum and Ambrose first meet and races towards the “incident” but ends right before it happens. It’s a bit frustrating when I didn’t even realize this was a first in a series so it’s best to know what you are getting into.
The first part of the book set in the present sets up the mystery of Callum’s missing memories quite well (although it does require some suspension of disbelief at the sheer unlikelihood of it). But once the book got to the flashback part, it started feeling like the mafia story I was expecting. It’s a bit dark with violence and murder, but not overly descriptive or gratuitous.
The slowburn romance between Callum and Ambrose was indeed that—slow and smoldering (but with very little spice). I really liked Callum as a character, with his childhood trauma and fear of being a burden playing a large role in how he is as a teen living with his step family. I really enjoyed the dynamic he has with his step brothers Meanwhile, Ambrose struggles with the role he is forced to play in his criminal family as well as having to hide his sexuality. When things start to heat up despite Callum’s obliviousness and Ambrose’s restraint, the book manages to keep on teasing by ending it right there.
The Lost Memories of Callum Brecker delivers a slowburn Mafia romance that is in desperate need of its sequel.
December 24, 2022
**TW**
This book contains violence, death, neglect, ab*se, s*x, hints at s*xual ass*ult, c*caine usage, substance ab*se, mafia, homophobia, guilt, mental health, drugging someone, death of parents, etc.
If a sensitive reader, this book may not be suited for you.
I will admit that it was the description that initially drew me in and I knew that this was a book that I wanted to read. Starting off lightly this book quickly got quite heavy and dark very quickly. I hadn't been fully aware of exactly what this book entailed but it wasn't at all what I thought it would be.
I adored the pining that Ambrose and Callum had for each other. They just seemed to fit together in a way that seemed right. This book heavily featured the forbidden romance trope, which I love! There were also elements of forced proximity, "touch him and I'll kill you" vibes, as well as golden retriever vs. black cat energy.
There was one scene in particular that I loved and that was the scene with Sia, Mick and Callum. Mick made a guess at Callum's sexuality and Sia told him that it's best not to assume someone's sexuality. I just loved this scene. A short scene, but a lovely one.
I did enjoy the authors writing style and liked how the story was told. I don't really feel like the book had a real end to it though. It felt like it had just stopped mid-way through the story rather than on a cliffhanger that would have made readers more excited for the next book.
Either way, I do still look forward to the next book as I have questions about both past and present Callum and Ambrose that I'd love to get an answer to!
This book contains violence, death, neglect, ab*se, s*x, hints at s*xual ass*ult, c*caine usage, substance ab*se, mafia, homophobia, guilt, mental health, drugging someone, death of parents, etc.
If a sensitive reader, this book may not be suited for you.
I will admit that it was the description that initially drew me in and I knew that this was a book that I wanted to read. Starting off lightly this book quickly got quite heavy and dark very quickly. I hadn't been fully aware of exactly what this book entailed but it wasn't at all what I thought it would be.
I adored the pining that Ambrose and Callum had for each other. They just seemed to fit together in a way that seemed right. This book heavily featured the forbidden romance trope, which I love! There were also elements of forced proximity, "touch him and I'll kill you" vibes, as well as golden retriever vs. black cat energy.
There was one scene in particular that I loved and that was the scene with Sia, Mick and Callum. Mick made a guess at Callum's sexuality and Sia told him that it's best not to assume someone's sexuality. I just loved this scene. A short scene, but a lovely one.
I did enjoy the authors writing style and liked how the story was told. I don't really feel like the book had a real end to it though. It felt like it had just stopped mid-way through the story rather than on a cliffhanger that would have made readers more excited for the next book.
Either way, I do still look forward to the next book as I have questions about both past and present Callum and Ambrose that I'd love to get an answer to!
July 16, 2023
I loved The Lost Memories of Callum Brecker!
When I started reading, I was confused because it felt like I was thrown in the middle of a scene/the story. But once I got the hang of who was who and what was going on, I started to enjoy it. And then Ambrose did something (I won't spoil), and I thought: there's no way I will ever like this character again. HA. I was so wrong!
Once the story switched to the past, I was hooked. And the more I read, the harder it became to stop.
I loved the entire friend group, but my favorite character was Callum. There's something about him that makes him so precious. I felt incredibly connected to him. I understood him so well, maybe because, in a way, he's a lot like me. But also: whenever he felt something, I literally felt it myself.
And Ambrose. I loved him so much. And I loved them together! I rooted for them throughout, and if they don't end up together at the end of the series, I'm going to... eh, probably just pretend the ending is different.😂
I'll stop now, because this is turning into one of my more chaotic reviews, but I loved it and I can't wait to read the next book in the series!!!
When I started reading, I was confused because it felt like I was thrown in the middle of a scene/the story. But once I got the hang of who was who and what was going on, I started to enjoy it. And then Ambrose did something (I won't spoil), and I thought: there's no way I will ever like this character again. HA. I was so wrong!
Once the story switched to the past, I was hooked. And the more I read, the harder it became to stop.
I loved the entire friend group, but my favorite character was Callum. There's something about him that makes him so precious. I felt incredibly connected to him. I understood him so well, maybe because, in a way, he's a lot like me. But also: whenever he felt something, I literally felt it myself.
And Ambrose. I loved him so much. And I loved them together! I rooted for them throughout, and if they don't end up together at the end of the series, I'm going to... eh, probably just pretend the ending is different.😂
I'll stop now, because this is turning into one of my more chaotic reviews, but I loved it and I can't wait to read the next book in the series!!!
February 11, 2023
This is the story of Ambrose and Callum. Ambrose is the son of Tomas Romano, a high flyer in the Mafia whereas Callum lives with his aunt in a small apartment. The two young men are thrown together in a club in Miami when Callum is working behind the bar. Ambrose is hurt that Callum can't remember how they know each other. This is a love story that unfolds between the two with very violent and devastating tendencies.
Each chapter is from the point of view of one of the leading characters. There are many flashbacks as you learn how Ambrose and Callum befriended in school and you learn about their difficult upbringings and their families. There are many characters to keep up with and their relations to the main two.
It's very well written with plenty of cliffhangers. It's not for the faint hearted but it's very entertaining. I can't give anything less than five start for this.
Each chapter is from the point of view of one of the leading characters. There are many flashbacks as you learn how Ambrose and Callum befriended in school and you learn about their difficult upbringings and their families. There are many characters to keep up with and their relations to the main two.
It's very well written with plenty of cliffhangers. It's not for the faint hearted but it's very entertaining. I can't give anything less than five start for this.
August 13, 2023
Mystery? Yes. Mafia? Yes yes yes. Two idiots in love that you have to yell at the pages to make a move? Yes. Amnesia? Most definitely. Circumstances that keep pulling them apart and bringing them back together? Hell yeah. It's a bit of a slow burn, BL romance that's sweet and makes you want to cry. It ended on such a cliffhanger I threw a fit! It basically starts off in the present where the two main characters are meeting after years while one of them (AHEM IT'S CALLUM BRECKER) and some incidents do take place but then it shifts to the past where we can experience first hand what led up to where we were first introduced to them. Do I want more? Most definitely. But there are some uncomfortable scenes in the book that may make you feel like you want to hurl, but trust me, push past that and you'll enjoy it.
I was given a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
I was given a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
January 27, 2023
⭐️ 4.0
I’m at a moment where I’m not sure yet what to say other than I adore the story. I’ve never been a fan of the mafia trope, but I’m starting to see why it’s so popular. I’m very much looking forward to Book 2; I wasn’t ready to give up these characters yet.
Storyline inconsistencies, punctuation errors, and paragraph breaks in the middle of sentences were just a few of the mistakes I found. By the time I had cleared a hundred pages, I had lost track of the number of errors. As a copy editor, my brain is ingrained to spot mistakes. Internally editing a book when I was hoping to be able to be lost in the story got to be aggravating. Otherwise, I would have rated this higher.
However, as I said, I adore the characters and the overall story. I'm looking forward to more. 😊
I’m at a moment where I’m not sure yet what to say other than I adore the story. I’ve never been a fan of the mafia trope, but I’m starting to see why it’s so popular. I’m very much looking forward to Book 2; I wasn’t ready to give up these characters yet.
Storyline inconsistencies, punctuation errors, and paragraph breaks in the middle of sentences were just a few of the mistakes I found. By the time I had cleared a hundred pages, I had lost track of the number of errors. As a copy editor, my brain is ingrained to spot mistakes. Internally editing a book when I was hoping to be able to be lost in the story got to be aggravating. Otherwise, I would have rated this higher.
However, as I said, I adore the characters and the overall story. I'm looking forward to more. 😊
August 20, 2023
Mafia stories tend to be dark, but I didn’t feel like that with this one. This one was a little sad but also beautiful. This was an emotional journey, and it was nice to be on the ride.
It took me a little bit to get into the story, but it picked up after a few chapters. The writing is nice, but I was expecting more answers. I might get those answers in the next book since this is a series.
One of the things I loved was this was done in two timelines. It was a slow burn, and I am here for it. It does end on a cliffhanger, and I’m so intrigued to see where this goes.
It took me a little bit to get into the story, but it picked up after a few chapters. The writing is nice, but I was expecting more answers. I might get those answers in the next book since this is a series.
One of the things I loved was this was done in two timelines. It was a slow burn, and I am here for it. It does end on a cliffhanger, and I’m so intrigued to see where this goes.
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