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The Marcheshi Family Mafia #1
Of Monsters, Men, & Moles
There was once a lamb and a big bad wolf. He’s looking for a wife and she’s looking for an adventure. They say opposites attract but these two are not ready for each other. To wolf Antonio Marchesi it was all about winning. Poor little lamb Callie Rowney didn’t even realize it was a game. As a mafia boss, I’m meant to marry someone in my world. Someone that knows what it’s like to run the world. To aid in my betrothal, my father sets up a ball and invites all the eligible women from across the country. One of them will become Mrs. Antonio Marchesi. She will be my wife. We won’t be in love, but she will play her role. Then I see the brunette in the red dress hiding in the corner of the room, reading a book. She’s sweet, innocent, a lamb. I want her. She’s totally inappropriate for the role of mafia wife. She’s not from my world. Yet, I can’t stop my eyes from keenly following her around. And on the stroke of midnight, I make my way to talk to her, but she disappears into the night. *** My roommate invited me to a party. I didn’t realize it was for a mafia boss. That was looking to select a wife. There were hundreds of women there, hoping to win the honor, but he’s not my idea of a Prince Charming. He’s tall, arrogant, cold, austere, and the most handsome man I’ve ever seen. They call him Antonio “The Wolf” Marchesi and the name sends a shiver down my spine. I decided to leave the party before my real identity was discovered. I climbed down a tree, slipped, and he caught me at the bottom. He held me like he didn’t want to let go. He’s the head of the Marchesi Famligia: notorious, calculating, heartless. He gets everything he wants and yet, she might prove to be the one person he can’t have.
316 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 28, 2023
1124 people are currently reading
1460 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 204 reviews
May 1, 2023
The heroine was so dumb it had me frustrated. I get she didn't know about the mafia world but seriously she was an idiot about it all. I feel like she was supposed to be the complete opposite of all the other girls throwing themselves at the hero but trying to make her different went a little too far in my opinion.
I can't say much even happened in this book. It all moved so fast from Callie showing up at the ball to her then ending up working for Antonio's business and then the end came super fast. And then there's another book for them which is eye roll inducing. I've started to read cliffhangers and some I genuinely really like but there's still a lot of stories that seem to be cut into multiple books for no reason and this is one of those. I can't say I even saw a connection between Antonio and Callie in this book so I really don't think one more book is going to help that. Just another story I won't be finishing I guess.
I can't say much even happened in this book. It all moved so fast from Callie showing up at the ball to her then ending up working for Antonio's business and then the end came super fast. And then there's another book for them which is eye roll inducing. I've started to read cliffhangers and some I genuinely really like but there's still a lot of stories that seem to be cut into multiple books for no reason and this is one of those. I can't say I even saw a connection between Antonio and Callie in this book so I really don't think one more book is going to help that. Just another story I won't be finishing I guess.
March 30, 2023
I'm trying to understand how this book has such a high rating. The writing is very immature as well as the FMC. How can she be so clueless but goes to NYU? This story is just so unbelievable.
March 28, 2023
So got to 54% and we've had one interaction with the FMC and MMC. It's so hard to like Callie, she's 21 a college student but is dumb as a bag of rocks. I can't see what the attraction Antonio has with her but I'm sure she's different from all the other girls. Sorry but I'm out
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 29, 2023
Holy sht guys. What just happened here. I just knewwwwwwww it in a way. I had these deep rooted ideas about what was up
I also think I know who her dad was cheating with too………. I’m just. I really don’t want to wait until the end of April for book 2. I need this book so bad I’m jonesing over here
This is a keeper
I also think I know who her dad was cheating with too………. I’m just. I really don’t want to wait until the end of April for book 2. I need this book so bad I’m jonesing over here
This is a keeper
April 15, 2023
Now, usually I’m not the type to leave reviews on books, but *sigh*, this one takes the cake.
I got this one from kindle unlimited (and thank god for that because if I had paid good money to read this one I would be mortified), because the plot seemed promising - *seemed* being the key word. And I’ll explain why.
The h, Callie, agreed (for no other reason than being a dumb, I mean kind, person) to cover for her roommate, whom she doesn’t even like, by going to a ball for a mafia underboss looking to find a “suitable” wife (while btw she knew nothing about the ball, but went anyway, mainly since her best friend insisted she was boring and Callie felt like she needed an adventure). At said ball we meet the H, Antonio, who is a complete asshole so full of himself for literally no other reason than having an 8 inch penis and being, and I quote, “a sex god” (as said by the man himself).
Not only was the writing juvenile, the plot didn’t progress AT ALL until about 80% and even then practically NOTHING happened. They about had sex and that was it. There was no character development at all, the h had no sense of self preservation, the H was supposed to be focused on avenging his mother’s untimely death by seducing the h, but we got left off with a cliffhanger as to why she had anything to do with his mother’s death and worst of all - there was no nod in the book to him being in the mafia at all, except him ordering someone to leave a dead horse’s head in the h dorm room so he could lure her into staying with him (I kid you not).
Furthermore, in some parts the authors tried to make it seem like the H might actually have a soft spot for his virgin h (bit cliche, not gonna lie, but that’s the least important part), but it did nothing for me personally, as the H continued to treat the h like she was completely naive and easy to manipulate (which she was, because he gave off so many red flags that he knew too much about her without her sharing any information about herself whatsoever, while telling her all the magical things she wanted to hear as a hopeless romantic).
All in all the only reason I forced myself to finish this book was to see if ANYTING would happen if I continued with it, but I was sorely disappointed.
I would not recommend this book and I’m shocked that it has such promising and glorious reviews. Or maybe as Taylor Swift says “I’m the problem, it’s me”. But I doubt it (well at least as for my rating of this book anyways).
I got this one from kindle unlimited (and thank god for that because if I had paid good money to read this one I would be mortified), because the plot seemed promising - *seemed* being the key word. And I’ll explain why.
The h, Callie, agreed (for no other reason than being a dumb, I mean kind, person) to cover for her roommate, whom she doesn’t even like, by going to a ball for a mafia underboss looking to find a “suitable” wife (while btw she knew nothing about the ball, but went anyway, mainly since her best friend insisted she was boring and Callie felt like she needed an adventure). At said ball we meet the H, Antonio, who is a complete asshole so full of himself for literally no other reason than having an 8 inch penis and being, and I quote, “a sex god” (as said by the man himself).
Not only was the writing juvenile, the plot didn’t progress AT ALL until about 80% and even then practically NOTHING happened. They about had sex and that was it. There was no character development at all, the h had no sense of self preservation, the H was supposed to be focused on avenging his mother’s untimely death by seducing the h, but we got left off with a cliffhanger as to why she had anything to do with his mother’s death and worst of all - there was no nod in the book to him being in the mafia at all, except him ordering someone to leave a dead horse’s head in the h dorm room so he could lure her into staying with him (I kid you not).
Furthermore, in some parts the authors tried to make it seem like the H might actually have a soft spot for his virgin h (bit cliche, not gonna lie, but that’s the least important part), but it did nothing for me personally, as the H continued to treat the h like she was completely naive and easy to manipulate (which she was, because he gave off so many red flags that he knew too much about her without her sharing any information about herself whatsoever, while telling her all the magical things she wanted to hear as a hopeless romantic).
All in all the only reason I forced myself to finish this book was to see if ANYTING would happen if I continued with it, but I was sorely disappointed.
I would not recommend this book and I’m shocked that it has such promising and glorious reviews. Or maybe as Taylor Swift says “I’m the problem, it’s me”. But I doubt it (well at least as for my rating of this book anyways).
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 31, 2023
First thing I want to say is I didn't hate nor like the book. Nothing really happened until the very end. You could probably read the last chapter of the book to save yourself some time. I am curious on what will happen next.
The more I read this book, the more I felt like I was reading a 'I'm different than all the other girls' wattpad story.
The more I read this book, the more I felt like I was reading a 'I'm different than all the other girls' wattpad story.
March 22, 2023
I received an ARC for an honest review of the book. Let's just say I can't wait until April for book #2. The author warns it is a dark book, but if you have read any of this genre it is not bad at all and there was nothing I would find triggering. I found the book to be an excellent read. The main character is being pressured to become married and finds an imposter at his party. The book does end on a cliffhanger and book 2 is supposed to be released soon.
May 29, 2023
DNF...just couldn't read anymore. I am not familiar with this author but am an avid reader of this genre, and always like to give new authors to me a chance. The dialogue in this book attempted to inflect terminology from an episode of the Sopranos or from a cheesy Godfather remake. I was waiting for the male characters in this novel to be chewing gum and be adorned in huge gold chains with their shirts open to their navels. The language and the storyline bounced between 2023 and a 70-80's version of the Mafia. The story did not flow and the writing was not great. Too many gaps and too much unnecessary filler. I need a strong well written story line with characters that are noteworthy. This genre is not for everyone nor is it for every writer.
That being said I couldn't stand Callie who was a doormat, but a supposed "psych" major and yet was so easily handled by both Antonio and Valentina ( a casual friend). She seemed incapable of practicing what she was taught in order to one day become a psychologist Her attempts at being a strong MFC was laughable. Callie's character was rough around the edges both physically and socially having no idea how to do basic hygiene for a 21 year old woman such as shaving her arm pits....ick...TMI. She was not the least bit polished or confident making her an ideal character to be used repeatedly. Who get's duped into becoming someone else for a night. She is to attend a ball whereas she knows no one and then brings a book to read. Snoopy PJ's at 21; the list just goes on. I felt as though her character was a victim of "arrested development" never maturing past a certain age. Her whole idea of true love seemed something from a Jane Austin book, not 2023. Jane Austin wrote about strong willful female characters, not childish women.
I never saw what Antonio saw in Callie as he was a text book Mafia heir. He and his brothers gravitated between the present and 1970 circa Mafia with the way they talked and their general disregard for the females in the story. The basis for this storyline was similar to so many books in this genre written well before this one, so no originality there. The characters were just blah and weren't interesting or unique.
There are some really excellent authors in this genre who write original stories with good solid characters and a story that will remain with you long after you have completed it. One and done on this series.
That being said I couldn't stand Callie who was a doormat, but a supposed "psych" major and yet was so easily handled by both Antonio and Valentina ( a casual friend). She seemed incapable of practicing what she was taught in order to one day become a psychologist Her attempts at being a strong MFC was laughable. Callie's character was rough around the edges both physically and socially having no idea how to do basic hygiene for a 21 year old woman such as shaving her arm pits....ick...TMI. She was not the least bit polished or confident making her an ideal character to be used repeatedly. Who get's duped into becoming someone else for a night. She is to attend a ball whereas she knows no one and then brings a book to read. Snoopy PJ's at 21; the list just goes on. I felt as though her character was a victim of "arrested development" never maturing past a certain age. Her whole idea of true love seemed something from a Jane Austin book, not 2023. Jane Austin wrote about strong willful female characters, not childish women.
I never saw what Antonio saw in Callie as he was a text book Mafia heir. He and his brothers gravitated between the present and 1970 circa Mafia with the way they talked and their general disregard for the females in the story. The basis for this storyline was similar to so many books in this genre written well before this one, so no originality there. The characters were just blah and weren't interesting or unique.
There are some really excellent authors in this genre who write original stories with good solid characters and a story that will remain with you long after you have completed it. One and done on this series.
March 27, 2023
This book was a very intriguing read where one second you think a lot that is happening is fate intervening and the next it has you questioning so much that I devoured it quickly. Callie is a college student about to graduate and trying to figure out her next path she wants to take. She lives in the dorms with a terrible roommate who is sketchy and self-centered on the best days, while Callie is a pushover that never steps out of her comfort zone except this one time. This one chance to do something for her roommate and try something different has her in the last place she expects to be coming face to face with someone she would never know existed until he pulls her in his orbit. While Antonia is very handsome his ego is wildly large, and his demeanor is a take charge I get what I want type. Callie is in over her head with this guy and the more she finds out about him and his life the more her head says run, but her naïve heart wants to be the one to change him. There are several instances you can tell she has been sheltered quite a bit in life and her naivety shown through a lot, yet she still had this backbone that would shine through at times that kept Antonio on his toes. There’s a lot of twists that makes the plot suspenseful, I loved Antonio’s cocky ways, and at times I thought Callie was too naïve for his world, but her feistiness shown through and had me pulling for her to tame the Wolf. Going into this book I knew it was a duet and expected a cliffhanger but the one we got was so much more than I expected that I can’t wait to devour book two because I need to know if Antonio the Wolf is set on eating his Little Lamb alive and what’s going to happen next.
April 17, 2023
So I liked the idea of the story. The execution of it felt a bit unpolished and unbelievable at times. Callie seemed to be an odd mixture of innocent and brave at all the wrong times. She couldn’t stand up to her roommate taking her purse but she’ll mouth off to a known mafia boss? Things like that kept coming up, where it would feel like a stretch or not in line with the story or characters. The romance was also difficult to get into because Antonio is portrayed as so conniving and callous that his whole time with Callie really seemed fake to me. An aspect I did like was that just when I thought I knew where it was going, the direction would change.
March 28, 2023
Of Monsters, Men & Moles is book 1 of a series, and just what I was looking for! A naïve virgin here, a bit of mafia there- the push and pull between Calli and Antonio ‘the wolf’ sucks you in and had me devouring this book in one night! This first book does end on quite the cliffy, so I am anxiously waiting for the second to come out! Great, start to the series!
May 5, 2023
i wanted to like this book so bad but it was just strange. the fmc was sooo stupid like how tf did u get into stanford and attend nyu but don’t have any common sense? also the pacing of their relationship is really strange and confusing. i almost feel like there was a chunk of the story missing. he suddenly really liked her and she just went with it? no questions asked?? overall 1.5 stars.
March 23, 2023
What an amazing story. I really enjoyed the different style of writing compared to what Jaimie usually writes. I’m so excited for the next book because I’m excited to find out what happens next. Definitely worth the 5 stars ⭐️
April 8, 2024
Good read
I have mixed feelings about this book! I loved the synopsis, I did NOT like Callie's personality! She was too innocent, and rather dingy! There is a cliffhanger at the end!
I have mixed feelings about this book! I loved the synopsis, I did NOT like Callie's personality! She was too innocent, and rather dingy! There is a cliffhanger at the end!
April 2, 2023
No HEA here - waiting on part 2. The book itself started out well and I'm very intrigued to see what the story goes. I was expecting a story along the lines of Antonio falling in love with Callie and going up against his father for her. The twist that there's more to Callie than we know was nice and unexpected for me. However, as of the end of this book, it's clear Antonio is using her so I want to see where it goes. Callie is a little annoying but might be growing on me. We'll see how book 2 goes.
March 30, 2023
No plot.. seemed promising .. 200 pages before anything really happens….
March 30, 2023
(1.5) - Easy to read but the book was super random and the characters were super cringey.
March 29, 2023
Antonio and Callies banter and chemistry is extremely apparent but Callie was just off at times but reading about Antonio it makes sense. Looking forward to the second part of the duet
March 28, 2023
Her Accidental Destined Forever -
When Callie’s friend asked her to attend a party in her stead, the last thing she expected was to find herself at a mafia family bride ball or for her to end up as the prey of groom to be. Antonio didn’t do relationships, but the moment he met Callie, something stirred within him that had him wanting to get to know her and keep her safe. However, even though he had to adhere to his father’s request to find a wife from one of the mafia families, he knew that he wanted no other woman, but Callie.
They went their separate ways that night, but neither one of them could get the other person off their mind, then fate stepped in and brought them back together. Antonio decided to throw caution to the wind a pursue Callie, even though she tried everything within her power to resist him. However, what Callie didn’t realise at the time was that she already had a connection to Antonio’s family, that would set the path for her future.
This was a truly mind blowing story, that had me glued to the pages. The storyline highlighted the fact that you can find love when you least expect it and with the most unlikely person. The story wasn’t all about the sexual encounters between the characters or mafia wars, but rather about the inexplicable emotional connection between the main characters and the hidden truth behind that connection. It was a worthwhile read, that left me eager to read the next book in the series.
I received an advanced copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
When Callie’s friend asked her to attend a party in her stead, the last thing she expected was to find herself at a mafia family bride ball or for her to end up as the prey of groom to be. Antonio didn’t do relationships, but the moment he met Callie, something stirred within him that had him wanting to get to know her and keep her safe. However, even though he had to adhere to his father’s request to find a wife from one of the mafia families, he knew that he wanted no other woman, but Callie.
They went their separate ways that night, but neither one of them could get the other person off their mind, then fate stepped in and brought them back together. Antonio decided to throw caution to the wind a pursue Callie, even though she tried everything within her power to resist him. However, what Callie didn’t realise at the time was that she already had a connection to Antonio’s family, that would set the path for her future.
This was a truly mind blowing story, that had me glued to the pages. The storyline highlighted the fact that you can find love when you least expect it and with the most unlikely person. The story wasn’t all about the sexual encounters between the characters or mafia wars, but rather about the inexplicable emotional connection between the main characters and the hidden truth behind that connection. It was a worthwhile read, that left me eager to read the next book in the series.
I received an advanced copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 1, 2023
This was not the usual genre book for JS Cooper but it was one that I also enjoyed and was sitting on the edge of my seat till the end. I will say it’s a duet and will be finished in the next installment of the book so that was a little frustrating to end on a nail biter but….it was engaging. The characters made me want to know them even if I could just be in their world to smack them a couple of times *cough the roommate cough* I loved Callie’s spunk and wish she had used it on her roommate but was glad to see that she had a spine and didn’t just bow down and take whatever he dished out even though she knew he was carrying a gun and could very easily end her she knew her worth and refused to settle for being treated less than she was worth. Women should be treated like they are priceless by their men if not that man doesn’t deserve to breathe the same air as them. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and will be anxious to read the conclusion to Callie and Antonio’s tale.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 30, 2023
The first book in The Wolf and The Lamb duet, Of Monsters, Men & Moles is PHENOMENAL. This mafia romance is INVIGORATING, CAPTIVATING and ENTICING.
From the very first chapters I was CONSUMED by the characters and their story.
This book met all my expectations and more!!
Antonio and Callie are highly engaging, witty and sensual characters that share the pages to a gripping, passionate and intriguing book.
The bickering and bantering between Antonio and Callie is so amusing and entertaining ( you will definitely smile and laugh).
The cliffhanger at the end will leave you frustrated but in a very good way.
Now I can’t wait to read Of Beauty, Brains & Bravery.
Congratulations Natalia (AKA Jaimie) you KILLED it with these characters and story.🎉🙌🏻🎉🙌🏻
From the very first chapters I was CONSUMED by the characters and their story.
This book met all my expectations and more!!
Antonio and Callie are highly engaging, witty and sensual characters that share the pages to a gripping, passionate and intriguing book.
The bickering and bantering between Antonio and Callie is so amusing and entertaining ( you will definitely smile and laugh).
The cliffhanger at the end will leave you frustrated but in a very good way.
Now I can’t wait to read Of Beauty, Brains & Bravery.
Congratulations Natalia (AKA Jaimie) you KILLED it with these characters and story.🎉🙌🏻🎉🙌🏻
October 19, 2024
Could’ve been way better
This book had so much potential. It was just too rushed and quick. Reminds me of a poorly written wattpad story. I don’t think I’d read the rest of the series.
This book had so much potential. It was just too rushed and quick. Reminds me of a poorly written wattpad story. I don’t think I’d read the rest of the series.
May 25, 2024
Just hit my jam….this is a love it or leave it read. Many will love it and some will leave it.
Happy reading,
DD 🥂
Happy reading,
DD 🥂
March 30, 2023
I received an ARC copy of this book and am writing this review voluntarily. This is a dark mafia romance, the first book in a duet. Callie is a 21-year-old college student who lives a very quiet life. She seems to have no friends and spends her free time reading, as she 's an avid reader. She finds her life to be boring and ordinary, and longs for an adventure. Her self-absorbed roommate Valentina, who doesn't even get Callie's name right and usually ignores her, abruptly asks her one night to do her a favor: to go to an important ball pretending to be Valentina. She says her family doesn't approve of her boyfriend, and she'd rather spend the time with him. She supplies Callie with sexy clothes/shoes for the event, tells her a chauffeur will provide her transportation, and leaves. Although Callie is a bit apprehensive, she's also excited by the prospect of stepping outside of her comfort zone. Upon arriving at the ball's location she soon discovers that it's a very fancy mafia affair. Antonio, the older son and heir-apparent of the mafia boss, is expected to choose an appropriate mafia-family wife from among the many elegant women in attendance. (The ball is only intended to help Antonio figure out a short list of candidates.) Love for a prospective bride is unimportant; she simply must meet the expectations for a suitable mafia wife and strengthen bonds or forge alliances within the mafia brotherhood. On the surface, Antonio pretends to go along with his father's plans, but he actually has zero interest or intention of following through. He is arrogant, self-assured, confident, and somewhat cocky. Callie, a virgin with an overprotective dad who has kept her somewhat sheltered all her life, has little life experience and is out of her depth at the ball. Although in the early scenes she lets her roommate take advantage of her (Valentina callously "borrows" a treasured designer purse that belonged to Callie's deceased mother and shows no intention of returning it), Callie goes toe-to-toe with Antonio and stands up for herself (a welcome change from her demeanor with Valentina). There is definitely chemistry between them. We learn that Antonio is out for revenge against several targets; that revenge seems to be tied to the death of his mother in a car crash years before. The revenge targets are not identified, but little clues are given. The only one who knows about the revenge plot is Antonio's younger brother, Alessandro. The story ends with a cliffhanger, with the second book due out next month. I'm looking forward to it. I want to see if my suspicions are correct and how the revenge plot plays out, as well as how Antonio and Callie bridge the gap between their very different personalities and lifestyles and achieve their HEA.
July 24, 2023
The author had user thinking this was just a simple wrong place right time type thing... ooh I was so fooled... but not completely. I was super suspicious. Vee said no one would recognize her at this party... but come to find out everyone knew her at that party... I really started to catch on though when he messaged Vee to get the code for the building and she said 'I thought you just wanted to get her to the party'. Like ... whatcha trying to hide there lol.
I didn't like Callie's character in the beginning. She was super awkward and her lying didn't help her at all. She couldn't read the room. The author wrote her to be naïve but she was coming across as dumb. Though she made me laugh and as her character developed, she grew on me.
Now for her being dumb ... she even said it herself.. she said that men don't change that fast or fall that fast why all of a sudden would he change and fall for her, he didn't even know her. But she went along with it anyway! He said he didn't do love but says he could change for the one... like girl...RUUUN.
I knew some major heartache was coming with this. And I just need it to hurry and get better. I bet his mom faked her death though. Wouldn't that be some shit.. she did it to get away from his father.
So in the beginning of the book, the prologue, its a scene of her and him in a room together and he's about to be married. I didn't get that scene. Like she didn't know him then and that never happened either. If it was a dream, then that was super weird. lol. I just didn't understand why that was there. When I first started the book, I thought it was a preview of what was to come.. but that wasn't it..
I really loved this book though. It was super good. This is my first time reading something by this author and I fell in love with it. The writing was so good, and the author was able to make me believe one thing was going on when really the bigger picture held so much more. There was some things I saw coming and a lot I didn't. Either way, from page 1 it had me hooked.
Spice 1/5
Humor 3/5
Emotional 2/5
World building 4/5
I didn't like Callie's character in the beginning. She was super awkward and her lying didn't help her at all. She couldn't read the room. The author wrote her to be naïve but she was coming across as dumb. Though she made me laugh and as her character developed, she grew on me.
Now for her being dumb ... she even said it herself.. she said that men don't change that fast or fall that fast why all of a sudden would he change and fall for her, he didn't even know her. But she went along with it anyway! He said he didn't do love but says he could change for the one... like girl...RUUUN.
I knew some major heartache was coming with this. And I just need it to hurry and get better. I bet his mom faked her death though. Wouldn't that be some shit.. she did it to get away from his father.
So in the beginning of the book, the prologue, its a scene of her and him in a room together and he's about to be married. I didn't get that scene. Like she didn't know him then and that never happened either. If it was a dream, then that was super weird. lol. I just didn't understand why that was there. When I first started the book, I thought it was a preview of what was to come.. but that wasn't it..
I really loved this book though. It was super good. This is my first time reading something by this author and I fell in love with it. The writing was so good, and the author was able to make me believe one thing was going on when really the bigger picture held so much more. There was some things I saw coming and a lot I didn't. Either way, from page 1 it had me hooked.
Spice 1/5
Humor 3/5
Emotional 2/5
World building 4/5
March 24, 2023
This is book one in The Wolf and The Lamb Mafia Romance Duet and omg it is definitely a must read. Antonio is a mafia boss and the next don in the Marchesi but he needs to get married to be able to take over his fathers title but his marriage will not be about love but necessity so his father invites eligible women to a ball so that Antonio can chose who he is going to marry. Callie is a college student and when her roommate invites her to a party Callie really doesn’t want to go but in the end she goes only to get there and realise what the party was for and she wants no part of it so she needs to get out of there as quickly as she possibly can and disappear but things don’t always go as planned. When Antonio and Callie meet things are really tense and she wants to be anywhere else but here with the cold, cruel, dark, cocky and angry man and then when she thinks that there is no way out he surprises her. The attraction and chemistry between Callie and Antonio is instant, strong and intense but Callie doesn’t want anything to do with Antonio’s world and tries to keep her distance from him but then a situation throws them back into each others path but things are not what they seem to be and then you get an explosive cliff hanger ending that sends shivers down your spine and leaving you wondering what will happen next and definitely needing the next book. This book had me completely hooked right from the first page and also had me on the edge of my seat while holding my breath and the back and forward banter was so enjoyable and entertaining and I loved how Callie was so strong and gave Antonio a run for his money and didn’t take any messing from him regardless of the situation and I definitely recommend you read this book and you will not be disappointed.
March 28, 2023
Her Accidental Destined Forever -
When Callie’s friend asked her to attend a party in her stead, the last thing she expected was to find herself at a mafia family bride ball or for her to end up as the prey of groom to be. Antonio didn’t do relationships, but the moment he met Callie, something stirred within him that had him wanting to get to know her and keep her safe. However, even though he had to adhere to his father’s request to find a wife from one of the mafia families, he knew that he wanted no other woman, but Callie.
They went their separate ways that night, but neither one of them could get the other person off their mind, then fate stepped in and brought them back together. Antonio decided to throw caution to the wind a pursue Callie, even though she tried everything within her power to resist him. However, what Callie didn’t realise at the time was that she already had a connection to Antonio’s family, that would set the path for her future.
This was a truly mind blowing story, that had me glued to the pages. The storyline highlighted the fact that you can find love when you least expect it and with the most unlikely person. The story wasn’t all about the sexual encounters between the characters or mafia wars, but rather about the inexplicable emotional connection between the main characters and the hidden truth behind that connection. It was a worthwhile read, that left me eager to read the next book in the series.
I received an advanced copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
When Callie’s friend asked her to attend a party in her stead, the last thing she expected was to find herself at a mafia family bride ball or for her to end up as the prey of groom to be. Antonio didn’t do relationships, but the moment he met Callie, something stirred within him that had him wanting to get to know her and keep her safe. However, even though he had to adhere to his father’s request to find a wife from one of the mafia families, he knew that he wanted no other woman, but Callie.
They went their separate ways that night, but neither one of them could get the other person off their mind, then fate stepped in and brought them back together. Antonio decided to throw caution to the wind a pursue Callie, even though she tried everything within her power to resist him. However, what Callie didn’t realise at the time was that she already had a connection to Antonio’s family, that would set the path for her future.
This was a truly mind blowing story, that had me glued to the pages. The storyline highlighted the fact that you can find love when you least expect it and with the most unlikely person. The story wasn’t all about the sexual encounters between the characters or mafia wars, but rather about the inexplicable emotional connection between the main characters and the hidden truth behind that connection. It was a worthwhile read, that left me eager to read the next book in the series.
I received an advanced copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 28, 2024
I would give this book a solid 3.7 stars! It was a quick, interesting read. This is one of those books that just pulls you in from page one and you can’t put it down for anything. It drew me in just from the prologue alone. I read this book in one setting and was up until 3am desperate to finish. The storyline was very good and I quickly caught on to what was happening and what was about to happen.
Our MMC is one manipulative son of a BLANK. He had an entire plan of revenge set on our FMC and I didn’t know why until the end where everything came together. Yes the book does end on a cliffhanger and I have to immediately go into reading book 2 to see what happens next!
Our FMC is one hell of a character. Yes she was gullible but hear me out she had a good reason! All she wanted was to find true love, live life a little on the edge and start a new chapter of her life after she graduates. Did I see myself in her.. a little! But she was too trusting and she did let her fairytale dreams get in the way of her making good decisions. BUT the MMC was a good puppet master. He said and did all the right things and like any female with heart and that’s innocent, she fell for it. Unfortunately, she’s about to reap the consequences over something she had no part in. She just wanted to give herself a chance at doing something out of the ordinary. I liked Callie and she was funny! She didn’t take certain shit and I respect that from her. She made him work for every second of her time and presence.
Our MMC is one manipulative son of a BLANK. He had an entire plan of revenge set on our FMC and I didn’t know why until the end where everything came together. Yes the book does end on a cliffhanger and I have to immediately go into reading book 2 to see what happens next!
Our FMC is one hell of a character. Yes she was gullible but hear me out she had a good reason! All she wanted was to find true love, live life a little on the edge and start a new chapter of her life after she graduates. Did I see myself in her.. a little! But she was too trusting and she did let her fairytale dreams get in the way of her making good decisions. BUT the MMC was a good puppet master. He said and did all the right things and like any female with heart and that’s innocent, she fell for it. Unfortunately, she’s about to reap the consequences over something she had no part in. She just wanted to give herself a chance at doing something out of the ordinary. I liked Callie and she was funny! She didn’t take certain shit and I respect that from her. She made him work for every second of her time and presence.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 2, 2023
Antonio & Callie: Dishonest Instalove
Underboss Antonio “The Wolf” Marchesi is set to ascend to the head of his Family as Don. The requirements of this promotion require him to take a wife. With a bevy of willing women to volunteer as tribute, a Ball is held in his honor for him to choose a bride from the surrounding families. Notoriously non-monogamous, Antonio is none too pleased with any of the selections present. Until he meets a quirky, beautiful stand out from all the rest.
Enter: “The Lamb” Callie, super-green NYU college student who has never seen the movie “The Godfather”, let alone know anything about the organized crime that exists in New York where she resides. Callie finds herself at the Ball as a means to doing a favor for her dorm-mate. She meets Antonio and hasn’t a clue as to who he is or the true purpose for the “party” she just crashed. Antonio is clearly intrigued and smitten with Callie; Callie is intimidated by Antonio. However, she can’t seem to say no to him and begins to fall for his charms, thinking she’s finally found “the one”. But, was their meeting a lucky coincidence for her or was it a carefully well-orchestrated plan?
This book was nothing short of excellent. Antonio is a bad ass and he knows it. His commanding presence on page made me eager to read his POV in the story. Callie’s innocence is as annoying as it is refreshing. She is almost as naive as they come. So, it was good to see that she also has the guts and wherewithal in her to match Antonio’s bravado. Antonio and Callie are like fire and ice, together they bring lots of steam! Their chemistry pulls you in.
The author does a wonderful job of foreshadowing with subtle hints pointing to Antonio’s words, mannerisms, and actions. Despite his sincere words, is he really the Wolf he’s known to be or had Callie made him softer? This story is bound to have the reader second guessing the actions of both characters. Well done.
“Of Monsters, Men, & Moles” ends with a cliffhanger that will definitely keep you engaged and wringing your hands until the next book!
*This review is based on an ARC*
Underboss Antonio “The Wolf” Marchesi is set to ascend to the head of his Family as Don. The requirements of this promotion require him to take a wife. With a bevy of willing women to volunteer as tribute, a Ball is held in his honor for him to choose a bride from the surrounding families. Notoriously non-monogamous, Antonio is none too pleased with any of the selections present. Until he meets a quirky, beautiful stand out from all the rest.
Enter: “The Lamb” Callie, super-green NYU college student who has never seen the movie “The Godfather”, let alone know anything about the organized crime that exists in New York where she resides. Callie finds herself at the Ball as a means to doing a favor for her dorm-mate. She meets Antonio and hasn’t a clue as to who he is or the true purpose for the “party” she just crashed. Antonio is clearly intrigued and smitten with Callie; Callie is intimidated by Antonio. However, she can’t seem to say no to him and begins to fall for his charms, thinking she’s finally found “the one”. But, was their meeting a lucky coincidence for her or was it a carefully well-orchestrated plan?
This book was nothing short of excellent. Antonio is a bad ass and he knows it. His commanding presence on page made me eager to read his POV in the story. Callie’s innocence is as annoying as it is refreshing. She is almost as naive as they come. So, it was good to see that she also has the guts and wherewithal in her to match Antonio’s bravado. Antonio and Callie are like fire and ice, together they bring lots of steam! Their chemistry pulls you in.
The author does a wonderful job of foreshadowing with subtle hints pointing to Antonio’s words, mannerisms, and actions. Despite his sincere words, is he really the Wolf he’s known to be or had Callie made him softer? This story is bound to have the reader second guessing the actions of both characters. Well done.
“Of Monsters, Men, & Moles” ends with a cliffhanger that will definitely keep you engaged and wringing your hands until the next book!
*This review is based on an ARC*
March 28, 2023
The words use and overall review shouldn’t reflect personally on the author or any other of her series and books.
Wow what a ride. I didn't expect this when I read the description and advance preview. This book will surely play with your emotions. You get a cocky into himself male lead and a female lead who was a walking contradiction, and I mean it in a good way. Callie was nappy but shy. At least in book one I still feel she won't make it in a world that Antonio is in. This is not 5 stars because I am not going to lie, I hated both leads in some situations they were in. Their reactions irate me with passion. You get romance, suspense and action, triple threat. Take in count this is part of a duet book series, so it has a cliffhanger.
Would I recommend this book? Yes!
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