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Filthy Marcellos #0.5
Antony
Antony
Paperback
First published May 23, 2015
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2340 people want to read
About the author
Bethany-Kris
107 books4,259 followersThe author of too many novels to count, Bethany-Kris is a Canadian, lover of much, and mother to four sons, a glaring of cats, and a pack of dogs. A small town in Eastern Canada where she was born and raised is where she has always called home. With her boys under her feet, a snuggling cat, barking dogs, and a spouse calling over his shoulder, she is nearly always writing something ... when she can find the time.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 268 reviews
June 1, 2015
4.5 FILTHY MARCELLO STARS
This was an amazing beginning/end to this series!!! Thank you Bethany Kris for giving us Antony's story. I read Filthy Marcellos: Lucian, Filthy Marcellos: Giovanni and Filthy Marcellos: Dante first and then this one. I think reading this book first or last works however, for me, finishing with this book was really sweet because it had me reliving some fantastic and tender moments from each of the Principes' stories.
This is Antony Marcello's story and how he comes into La Cosa Nostra, "this thing of ours" and eventually becomes the Don.
This is also very much Cecelia's story. She is Antony's better half, his one and only. I loved Cecelia in her sons' stories but adored her in this book! I knew she was formidable but seeing her strength, stubbornness and an unwavering love was fantastic!
Antony honours and is governed by la famiglia, driven to get his button and become a made man. His aspirations for the mafioso go no further although he does aspire to be all powerful in New York.
When Antony first meets Cecelia, it's sweet and funny and exciting because you know their relationship is going to be a helluva of a love story.
Antony and Cecelia together are hot, sexy and filthy!!
Watching their relationship grow and navigate the demands of La Cosa Nostra is endearing, trying and precious. Cecelia is a remarkable woman! It makes the stark contrast between Cecelia and her younger sister, Kate (the viper) all the more apparent. And for me, it made we want to give Kate what she so deserved.
Throughout this story, we also see the power, violence and the smarts of Antony Marcello. He's a man of few words but when he speaks, you know he means business.
This was a wonderful read. If the Mafia is your thing and you're into powerful men with strong, sexy women at their sides, you should read this series!
BR with My Sexy Maflut Sisters: Sasha, Shanny and Snow!!
An ARC generously provide by Bethany Kris in exchange for an honest review.
For more reviews and blog posts.
This was an amazing beginning/end to this series!!! Thank you Bethany Kris for giving us Antony's story. I read Filthy Marcellos: Lucian, Filthy Marcellos: Giovanni and Filthy Marcellos: Dante first and then this one. I think reading this book first or last works however, for me, finishing with this book was really sweet because it had me reliving some fantastic and tender moments from each of the Principes' stories.
This is Antony Marcello's story and how he comes into La Cosa Nostra, "this thing of ours" and eventually becomes the Don.
This is also very much Cecelia's story. She is Antony's better half, his one and only. I loved Cecelia in her sons' stories but adored her in this book! I knew she was formidable but seeing her strength, stubbornness and an unwavering love was fantastic!
Antony honours and is governed by la famiglia, driven to get his button and become a made man. His aspirations for the mafioso go no further although he does aspire to be all powerful in New York.
When Antony first meets Cecelia, it's sweet and funny and exciting because you know their relationship is going to be a helluva of a love story.
Antony and Cecelia together are hot, sexy and filthy!!
Watching their relationship grow and navigate the demands of La Cosa Nostra is endearing, trying and precious. Cecelia is a remarkable woman! It makes the stark contrast between Cecelia and her younger sister, Kate (the viper) all the more apparent. And for me, it made we want to give Kate what she so deserved.
Throughout this story, we also see the power, violence and the smarts of Antony Marcello. He's a man of few words but when he speaks, you know he means business.
This was a wonderful read. If the Mafia is your thing and you're into powerful men with strong, sexy women at their sides, you should read this series!
BR with My Sexy Maflut Sisters: Sasha, Shanny and Snow!!
An ARC generously provide by Bethany Kris in exchange for an honest review.
For more reviews and blog posts.
October 1, 2015
Family first, Antony. God second.
If you haven’t the other 3 books in this series I would recommend you read them in published date order because I honestly think I enjoyed this book way more than I would have had I just read this series in numerical order.
So after reading about all three of the Marcello Brothers, I was really intrigued when I found out about their father’s book. He’s basically the original Filthy Marcello, the man who started it all. It all makes sense now, how the Marcellos got their reputations and how it then followed Antony’s sons.
Being the son of a made man would have guaranteed Antony a position in the Family had his father not fallen apart after the death of Antony’s mother and drank himself into an early grave. But this doesn’t discourage Antony in any way, he just has to work that much harder to prove himself worthy. Althoug Antony comes from old money and has deep ties within the mafia, he never got any shortcuts to lead him to the man he became. I really enjoyed reading about Antony rise to power, from being just a skip and finally being the Boss took some real guts.
“What are you prepared to give for La Cosa Nostra? Asked another person.
“My life.”
“Your children?”
“My sons,” Antony responded.
“Your daughters, too?”
Tension crawled over Antony’s shoulder at the question. He forced the word out, anyway. “Yes.”
“If your wife called from the labor room and your boss called from his home, who would you answer?”
“My boss.”
Antony and Cecelia do not meet under the best of circumstances, and at first I thought Antony would have to grovel. But Cecelia new she wanted him, and that just made it that much easier for Antony to win her love. The courtship, there’s just no other word for it, because before they got married if they needed to see each other there was always a chaperon. Cecelia’s father Vinnie, the Boss ruled his girls with an iron fist.
God he loved this woman.
Sempre.
Always.
Forever.
So he thanked God for making her. The wasn’t another one like her.
Although this is a romance, there was a lot more detail when it came to the inner workings of the mafia. I think this was the first Mafia romance I’ve read when the MC is inducted or L’omerta> into the Family, and the actual nomination process.
"This is for life."
It was.
"So I'm going to build it better, make it bigger and stronger. Cosa Nostra is our thing-it's ours, Paulie. My boys won't do this like we did. I'll make goddamn sure of it. Proper princepes, it's what they deserve. I will not put my boys into la famiglia, not one like this.
They will have control.
They will make the calls.
Only them."
March 8, 2016
Anthony is a Filthy Marcellos Prequel. When I saw this Mafia saga available as a box set, I couldn't resist diving into the Filthy Marcellos and I'm so glad I did. Anthony builds the family dynamic and sets the scene perfectly for what promises to be a series full of intense moments, brutal goings on and relationships over flowing with passion and love.
Lucian is next and I can't wait to see how this young man develops.
"Sometimes, you have to learn how to be filthy."
The complete FILTHY MARCELLO'S series is now available as one box set-->
US: http://amzn.to/1OuS9jq
UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01AX7CH0A
My review thoughts for the box set.
Lucian is next and I can't wait to see how this young man develops.
"Sometimes, you have to learn how to be filthy."
The complete FILTHY MARCELLO'S series is now available as one box set-->
US: http://amzn.to/1OuS9jq
UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01AX7CH0A
My review thoughts for the box set.
February 4, 2019
Re-read Feb 2019, and it was even better the second time around.
Antony and Cecelia's story spans years and was done to perfection, giving a solid background into the Marcello world, and what a world it is, with .... bonus .... no ex drama or ridiculous plot lines. I absolutely loved both Antony and Cecelia, and hope to see more of them as the series develops.
Antony and Cecelia's story spans years and was done to perfection, giving a solid background into the Marcello world, and what a world it is, with .... bonus .... no ex drama or ridiculous plot lines. I absolutely loved both Antony and Cecelia, and hope to see more of them as the series develops.
September 4, 2016
Great start to what looks like a fabulous series.
Having read some great reviews for 'Lucian' I couldn't wait to start, I knew it was book 1 of 4 and the series was on KU so I was good to go but then I noticed this book. For a second I considered skipping it altogether and starting with 'Lucian' but I'm so glad I didn't.
This is a fabulous book. Antony is hard working and for him the la famiglia comes before all else, he does whatever is asked of him whenever it's asked his life is la famiglia until he meets Cecelia Catrolli and falls in love but even in love he swore an oath and he remains loyal.
This book starts in 1964 with a five year old Antony and we're with him for all the major moments of his life through to 1997.
This book had many strengths I particularly liked Antony although Cecelia came a close second as the perfect Mafia wife who is more than she first appears.
Here we get the set-up and all the major characters and it makes for addictive reading so now I'm ready for 'Lucian'
Read
November 24, 2016Read the Marcello that started it all.
Sometimes you have to learn how to be filthy.
Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00Y77FZ9I
iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/id99...
Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/ca/en/ebook/filt...
Barnes & Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/filth...
"The killing years were coming ..."
***
"I'm going to marry that girl, Paulie. Watch me."
Sometimes you have to learn how to be filthy.
Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00Y77FZ9I
iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/id99...
Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/ca/en/ebook/filt...
Barnes & Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/filth...
"The killing years were coming ..."
***
"I'm going to marry that girl, Paulie. Watch me."
June 2, 2015
*4 STARS*
I really enjoyed reading the stories about the Marcello brothers, so I was very excited when I heard that papa Marcello was getting his book!
To be honest at the beginning the book was good nothing special and then after a few chapters, we got to meet Cecelia . From that moment the book became great! ( for me anyway ;) )
The book is not very long but we learn a few important things.
We find out what happened to Lucien's biological parents, how Gio got his name and more details about Dante past that I think will make his story more interesting to read.
We get an insight on how Antony Marcello became the Boss!
And of course how Cecelia and Antony met and fell in love! Their story was fun and sweet.
Yes he was very busy with Cosa Nostra but that didn't stop him from being a loving husband. I mean he did built her dream house and the sex between them was HOT!! Also I loved how protective he was of her.
All in all this was another great book by Bethany-Kris and
a great addition the to the Filthy Marcellos series!
I really enjoyed reading the stories about the Marcello brothers, so I was very excited when I heard that papa Marcello was getting his book!
To be honest at the beginning the book was good nothing special and then after a few chapters, we got to meet Cecelia . From that moment the book became great! ( for me anyway ;) )
The book is not very long but we learn a few important things.
We find out what happened to Lucien's biological parents, how Gio got his name and more details about Dante past that I think will make his story more interesting to read.
We get an insight on how Antony Marcello became the Boss!
And of course how Cecelia and Antony met and fell in love! Their story was fun and sweet.
Yes he was very busy with Cosa Nostra but that didn't stop him from being a loving husband. I mean he did built her dream house and the sex between them was HOT!! Also I loved how protective he was of her.
All in all this was another great book by Bethany-Kris and
a great addition the to the Filthy Marcellos series!
February 22, 2016
4,25 STARS!!!
What is most important in your life, Marcello?
La famiglia.
What comes second?
God.
What is most important in your life, Marcello?
La famiglia.
What comes second?
God.
January 17, 2018
**** 4.5 The First Filthy Marcello STARS****
Esta es la precuela de los hermanos Marcello y viene siendo la historia de nada más ni menos que del gran Patriarca y Boss de la Familia Marcello Antony.
En los libros de sus hijos lo hemos visto como el Gran Boss, inteligente, implacable y sobre todo honorable, pero ¿Cómo llegó a ser el temido Antony Marcello? Pues aquí nos cuentan su historia desde antes de ser un Made Man, como luchó para serlo, su iniciación, su vida de Capo hasta llegar a lo que es hoy.
Vemos como se enamora de Cecelia que fue un instalove totalmente pero fue bastante lindo y romántico, como va formando su familia el nacimiento de sus hijos y la adopción de Lucian, por cierto me encantó ver a Gio de chiquito siempre siendo tan Gio ❤️❤️❤️
Una de las partes más tristes fue la muerte de Jhon y como Antony sufre su pérdida, y la parte más emocionante cuando mata a su Don por venganza y se proclama jefe.
En cierto modo la historia me recordó mucho a la de Made de J,M. Darhower, obviamente no es igual la otra es más intensa, pero me recordó un poco al recorrido de Corrado su amor por la organización que los dos son hombre implacables que nacieron para ser unos Made Man.
What is most important in your life, Marcello?
La famiglia.
Esta es la precuela de los hermanos Marcello y viene siendo la historia de nada más ni menos que del gran Patriarca y Boss de la Familia Marcello Antony.
En los libros de sus hijos lo hemos visto como el Gran Boss, inteligente, implacable y sobre todo honorable, pero ¿Cómo llegó a ser el temido Antony Marcello? Pues aquí nos cuentan su historia desde antes de ser un Made Man, como luchó para serlo, su iniciación, su vida de Capo hasta llegar a lo que es hoy.
Vemos como se enamora de Cecelia que fue un instalove totalmente pero fue bastante lindo y romántico, como va formando su familia el nacimiento de sus hijos y la adopción de Lucian, por cierto me encantó ver a Gio de chiquito siempre siendo tan Gio ❤️❤️❤️
Una de las partes más tristes fue la muerte de Jhon y como Antony sufre su pérdida, y la parte más emocionante cuando mata a su Don por venganza y se proclama jefe.
En cierto modo la historia me recordó mucho a la de Made de J,M. Darhower, obviamente no es igual la otra es más intensa, pero me recordó un poco al recorrido de Corrado su amor por la organización que los dos son hombre implacables que nacieron para ser unos Made Man.
June 3, 2015
*4 Antony Marcello stars*
Aaaaw!
THIS WAS JUST THE PERFECT SET UP FOR THE FILTHY MARCELLOS TRILOGY
it was a pleasurable read with my fellow Mafluts – Irish, Shanny and Suz
(we're like those birds of a feather that stick together and I guess these birds got bonded over mafia books – it's our THING, our COSA NOSTRA, and we are la famiglia too)
We got to see the very beginning, how papa bear Marcello become to be the man, the Boss as we first saw him in the book 1 of the trilogy (Filthy Marcellos: Lucian)
„Cosa Nostra is our thing. I'm going to build it better...“
And this sentence gives away the true meaning of the word FAMIGLIA, cause even if it started for Antony as an OMERTA, an sacred oath to the greater than life mafia, the first „filthy“ Marcello proved which family comes first in the end – HIS and HIS ALONE – „our thing“.
Antony honored friendship, respected his wife Cecelia - the only woman in his life who he cherished more than his own life and loved more than the mafia ways, the way he loved her was unique and special filled with passion and adoration...
„Pure love. Carnal ecstasy. Perfection.“
he was a man of principle and cruel justice a man not to be crossed, a man not to be cheated, a man you should obey at any cost...a man of his word
We get to see the beginnings of the empire making and setting the grounds for Lucian, Dante and Gio...
I loved this story, and I really don't know what else to say as to add anything other than my mafia sisters already presented...
This was simply a great addition to the mafia lives of these „filthy Marcellos“ we all ended up loving so much!
Aaaaw!
THIS WAS JUST THE PERFECT SET UP FOR THE FILTHY MARCELLOS TRILOGY
it was a pleasurable read with my fellow Mafluts – Irish, Shanny and Suz
(we're like those birds of a feather that stick together and I guess these birds got bonded over mafia books – it's our THING, our COSA NOSTRA, and we are la famiglia too)
We got to see the very beginning, how papa bear Marcello become to be the man, the Boss as we first saw him in the book 1 of the trilogy (Filthy Marcellos: Lucian)
„Cosa Nostra is our thing. I'm going to build it better...“
And this sentence gives away the true meaning of the word FAMIGLIA, cause even if it started for Antony as an OMERTA, an sacred oath to the greater than life mafia, the first „filthy“ Marcello proved which family comes first in the end – HIS and HIS ALONE – „our thing“.
Antony honored friendship, respected his wife Cecelia - the only woman in his life who he cherished more than his own life and loved more than the mafia ways, the way he loved her was unique and special filled with passion and adoration...
„Pure love. Carnal ecstasy. Perfection.“
he was a man of principle and cruel justice a man not to be crossed, a man not to be cheated, a man you should obey at any cost...a man of his word
We get to see the beginnings of the empire making and setting the grounds for Lucian, Dante and Gio...
I loved this story, and I really don't know what else to say as to add anything other than my mafia sisters already presented...
This was simply a great addition to the mafia lives of these „filthy Marcellos“ we all ended up loving so much!
November 2, 2020
Re-read Oct 2020: 5 stars ✰
This was so much better the second time around. This book is a prequel to the three first books because it’s literally the history about how Antony Marcello became the boss and everything important in his life that made him the boss we know, love and respect.
Antony
Best dad ever. Honestly, is very easy to love him. He just does all the right things. And watching him as a twenty-year old something falling in love with Cecelia?? Watching him talk with his two best friends?? Amazing. I just love him. And I love it wasn’t perfect. We saw every up and down and he told us it wasn’t always easy to find a balance. It took time and he had to make it work.
Cecelia
What a woman. She is perfect for Antony. She is the perfect mob wife and I loveeeee how even though she can’t ask stuff, she demands her place and the respect of her family. Hell yeah. I really love her.
John
He deserves this spot. He was the best man ever. My heart hurt for him the whole time. And when we reached that point?? My heart BROKE. It wasn’t fair. And I’m so sad.
The kids
It was sooooo sweet watching them as kids and see how their parents tried to raise them right. They did. But also, they are kids. Loved that. Love them.
This book/novella didn’t disappoint. It’s actually my favorite book of the series along with Gio’s lol. I just really love Antony’s story. It doesn’t feel rushed nor unfulfilling. It’s perfect!!!
_______
Original rating Sep 2019: 5 stars ✰ “So good! I already adored Antony but know I love him even more! He was an amazing Don and such a good father, I loved learning more about him and his life, I’m confused as to why we don’t see his brother in the next books but I don’t care I didn’t like him lol I adored the Marcello family so much 🥺”
This was so much better the second time around. This book is a prequel to the three first books because it’s literally the history about how Antony Marcello became the boss and everything important in his life that made him the boss we know, love and respect.
Antony
Best dad ever. Honestly, is very easy to love him. He just does all the right things. And watching him as a twenty-year old something falling in love with Cecelia?? Watching him talk with his two best friends?? Amazing. I just love him. And I love it wasn’t perfect. We saw every up and down and he told us it wasn’t always easy to find a balance. It took time and he had to make it work.
Cecelia
What a woman. She is perfect for Antony. She is the perfect mob wife and I loveeeee how even though she can’t ask stuff, she demands her place and the respect of her family. Hell yeah. I really love her.
John
He deserves this spot. He was the best man ever. My heart hurt for him the whole time. And when we reached that point?? My heart BROKE. It wasn’t fair. And I’m so sad.
The kids
It was sooooo sweet watching them as kids and see how their parents tried to raise them right. They did. But also, they are kids. Loved that. Love them.
This book/novella didn’t disappoint. It’s actually my favorite book of the series along with Gio’s lol. I just really love Antony’s story. It doesn’t feel rushed nor unfulfilling. It’s perfect!!!
_______
Original rating Sep 2019: 5 stars ✰ “So good! I already adored Antony but know I love him even more! He was an amazing Don and such a good father, I loved learning more about him and his life, I’m confused as to why we don’t see his brother in the next books but I don’t care I didn’t like him lol I adored the Marcello family so much 🥺”
February 22, 2016
**Filthy Marcellos the Complete Collection provided in exchange for an honest review.**
5 "He'd remember that forever, then."Stars
I'm reading the complete collection of the Marcellos mafia stories. As such, I plan to review the series in full once I finish. Starting off with Antony's story was awesome. The writing here, in the 3rd person point of view, is so crisp yet detailed fully engaging the reader. Antony's journey hooks you from page one preparing you for the full onslaught of the Marcello boys. It prepares you for the theme and importance of family, acceptance, and morals in the fascinating subculture life of the Italian mafia. Excellent writing, excellent plot development, excellent storytelling. I can't wait to continue with Lucian.
February 18, 2021
Me gusto mucho mucho la historia de los patriarcas de la familia Marcellos, considero que como precuela cumple su funcion a las mil maravillas. No solo nos ayuda a conocer mas en profundidad a los integrantes de esta familia de mafiosos, sino que ademas conocemos escenas nuevas, lo que hace la lectura muy interesante de leer.
Realmente no esperaba disfrutar tanto de la historia de Antony y Cecelia, pero puedo decir abiertamente que me sorprendio para bien, asimismo se me paso en un instante, aunque eso no es nada nuevo, Bethany Kris sabe conseguir que mi tiempo pase a la velocidad de la luz con sus libros.
En resumen, una precuela interesante y amena que no puedes dejar de lado si eres fan de esta original familia, y sino lo eres, tampoco deberias perderte esta novela, es entretenida a mas no poder.
3.5 Estrellas!
March 16, 2017
(Enthusiast clapping) I cried, I smiled, I got hot in all the right places... It was great. Reading the events that made Antony a great man and father was awesome. Finding out the whole story behind John and Kate was heartbreaking. Going through the early stages of Cecilia and his marriage was so sweet. Seeing their loyalty and love for each other and reading about the hardships they faced. Of course this made me want to reread the whole series again.
December 25, 2015
4 This-thing-of-Ours stars
Im in love...in LOVE with ALL of the Marcellos...ALL OF THEM!!!!
Is it wrong I want to be a part of their family??
Like a junkie...I need more of them...right now!!
Im in love...in LOVE with ALL of the Marcellos...ALL OF THEM!!!!
Is it wrong I want to be a part of their family??
Like a junkie...I need more of them...right now!!
March 9, 2016
*Read thru Kindle Unlimited*
March 2, 2019
Good set up for series
This first book of the series is a good start. I want to read many Bethany-Kris books and was not sure where to start, so I tried to start at the beginning. This was good information going into the next 3 books about Antony and Cecelia’s boys. I am very much looking forward to getting to know each of them. This was not very dark or violent and I am hoping that changes a little as we progress.
This first book of the series is a good start. I want to read many Bethany-Kris books and was not sure where to start, so I tried to start at the beginning. This was good information going into the next 3 books about Antony and Cecelia’s boys. I am very much looking forward to getting to know each of them. This was not very dark or violent and I am hoping that changes a little as we progress.
February 11, 2016
Another great book in this series. Highly recommend this series if you after a hot mafia romance with strong and smart characters.
HEA
Cheating/OW/OM
Any couple separation
Angst Level: Low
Heat Level: High
Triggers
HEA
Cheating/OW/OM
Any couple separation
Angst Level: Low
Heat Level: High
Triggers
November 3, 2020
2.5 stars
Antony is must read if you are starting to read Filthy Marcellos, either way I liked this novella for first time guy in mafia wasn't a manwhore but loved his wife and kids.
Antony is must read if you are starting to read Filthy Marcellos, either way I liked this novella for first time guy in mafia wasn't a manwhore but loved his wife and kids.
December 22, 2017
The mafia part of this book is amazing, really. One of the best. The romance
Not that there was anything wrong with it. It's just that the mafia part outshined the romance part of the story. The parts are not united. I can't explain properly.
My other problem is with the author's writing style. It's not memorable to me. I've read Deathless & Divided the 2nd time around not even a month ago and I can't even remember what was about.
It's such a shame that I'm not obsessed with her books, bc she really writes some kick-ass mafia stuff.
Overall, this was a great Prequel. I really enjoyed it. I just hope that by the time I'll finish this review, I'll still remember reading it. Sorry. I'll keep trying.
P.S.: Was it a 1st POV or 3rd? Shit...
June 2, 2016
Awesome Awesome Awesome Awesome Awesome Awesome Awesome Prequel!!
This book is told entirely from Antony's perspective and it freaking worked!! I was literally surprised with how much I loved this. I had recently hit a slump of not quite stellar mafia romance material, but this book right here took me right outta there. A good mafia book is hard to find, but look no further because this book is definitely a winner.
I loved how loyal and devoted Antony was to his family and his famiglia. The love he shared, the knowledge and lessons he imparted, just the stoic and solid way he carried himself and handled situations spoke volumes to the strength of his character. The author did an incredible job with him and this story.
My only disappointment with this book was that Kate was still breathing.
Although the ending wasn't the typical HFN or HEA, it gave an interesting segue to the continuation of this series. Up next is Lucian (Lucky Luciano) and I can't wait to read about him all grown up.
Great plot. Great characters. Great time.
Enjoy! xo
This book is told entirely from Antony's perspective and it freaking worked!! I was literally surprised with how much I loved this. I had recently hit a slump of not quite stellar mafia romance material, but this book right here took me right outta there. A good mafia book is hard to find, but look no further because this book is definitely a winner.
I loved how loyal and devoted Antony was to his family and his famiglia. The love he shared, the knowledge and lessons he imparted, just the stoic and solid way he carried himself and handled situations spoke volumes to the strength of his character. The author did an incredible job with him and this story.
My only disappointment with this book was that Kate was still breathing.
Although the ending wasn't the typical HFN or HEA, it gave an interesting segue to the continuation of this series. Up next is Lucian (Lucky Luciano) and I can't wait to read about him all grown up.
Great plot. Great characters. Great time.
Enjoy! xo
June 14, 2015
this is quite literally what perfection reads like
this is the culmination and the cherry on top to the already decadent series. all the holes have been filled, more details provided and perfection made. this is most definitely my favorite :)
this is the culmination and the cherry on top to the already decadent series. all the holes have been filled, more details provided and perfection made. this is most definitely my favorite :)
June 25, 2016
Antony and Cecilia's story just became my favourite story in the Marcello series.
November 8, 2023
me in heaven: what cloud that sexy murderous wife-worshipping peepaw mafia boss from new york with those 3 sons on ? im trynna see somethinggg
god: GET OUT !
its something sooo serious like i know this whole family fine as hell… this is exactly where dante got his charm yeah! he’s a good man savannah! (me with all the marcellos) also it’s actually a verse in every religious text that whipped men go to heaven bc their crimes are canceled out using pemdas ☝️
this was a quite unique one romance-wise bc the pacing was so quick and it was definitely fastburn + love at first sight but i still felt the love/care they have for eo idk they’re my parents <3 i loved their brief banter before they married and all the domestic married fluff………yeah WHO AM I? i was kicking my feet and grinning like woah. there isn’t really any angst but there are a couple tragic moments that made my chest hurt a lil for them + marital issues bc antony is a dumbass what can i say.
not rlly into the multi-gen series thing but this actually made me love dante (already read his book) more. gonna be reading all the guys’ books thinking about that song that’s like “sacrifice my life to be your wife / i’m gonna be there for you / but if you break my heart / i go date your father.”🤣🤣 anyways this backstory for all the boys is so [HEAD IN HANDS] cecelia is my sisterr like this is my family TOO. the perfect prequel and now im more excited to read the rest of brothers’ books. i can see so much similiarity in dante and antony like how he raised him and what he modeled for his sons in this book is so evidently shown in their character as adults. also antony and baby lucian likeeee try not to get emo challenge: FAILED. tbh if i rr dantecat diaries i’ll probs rate higher bc everything hits different now 🤕
other highlights (see me progressively more deranged):
“she threatened to shoot me. well, my foot, but it’s the same thing. she didn’t even blink when she said it. she’s beautiful, too.” BREAKING: mafia man joins the weekly thursday malewife meetings. claims he needs to talk about his wife now or he will die in the streets.
“they’re perfect,” antony interrupted gently.
he wrapped his arms around his wife and held her shaking, crying frame closer.“they’re so perfect, cecelia. mamma’s boys, right?” AND HIM SQUISHED IN HER TINY HOSPITAL BED TOO HE LOVES HER SO MUCH FUCK
antony wrestled the phone from his wife’s hand, jumped out of the bed so she couldn’t take it back, and somehow managed to dodge the pillow she threw at him all at the same time.
“you … asshole,” cecelia muttered.
“yours, though.”
“good thing.”
antony picked up the call, tossing his wife a wink at the same time.
MIND YOU THIS IS THE VOLATILE TAKE-NO-BULLSHIT CAPO WHO’S MIDDLE NAME IS VIOLENCE THAT THEY FEAR ?!*#?@¥€/$!?
[taps mic] best mafia men? christian allister and antony marcello mayhaps! 🔐
god: GET OUT !
antony grinned. “i’m going to marry that girl.”
its something sooo serious like i know this whole family fine as hell… this is exactly where dante got his charm yeah! he’s a good man savannah! (me with all the marcellos) also it’s actually a verse in every religious text that whipped men go to heaven bc their crimes are canceled out using pemdas ☝️
“just one woman?”
“just the one sitting beside me and you’re not really mine, tesoro.”
not yet, anyway.
“what if i wanted to be?”
this was a quite unique one romance-wise bc the pacing was so quick and it was definitely fastburn + love at first sight but i still felt the love/care they have for eo idk they’re my parents <3 i loved their brief banter before they married and all the domestic married fluff………yeah WHO AM I? i was kicking my feet and grinning like woah. there isn’t really any angst but there are a couple tragic moments that made my chest hurt a lil for them + marital issues bc antony is a dumbass what can i say.
“but … like how you’re gio and dante’s papà, i mean. are you like that for me, too?”
“if you’re asking do i love you in the same way i love them, then yes, lucian. from the very second i knew you existed.”
not rlly into the multi-gen series thing but this actually made me love dante (already read his book) more. gonna be reading all the guys’ books thinking about that song that’s like “sacrifice my life to be your wife / i’m gonna be there for you / but if you break my heart / i go date your father.”🤣🤣 anyways this backstory for all the boys is so [HEAD IN HANDS] cecelia is my sisterr like this is my family TOO. the perfect prequel and now im more excited to read the rest of brothers’ books. i can see so much similiarity in dante and antony like how he raised him and what he modeled for his sons in this book is so evidently shown in their character as adults. also antony and baby lucian likeeee try not to get emo challenge: FAILED. tbh if i rr dantecat diaries i’ll probs rate higher bc everything hits different now 🤕
other highlights (see me progressively more deranged):
“she threatened to shoot me. well, my foot, but it’s the same thing. she didn’t even blink when she said it. she’s beautiful, too.” BREAKING: mafia man joins the weekly thursday malewife meetings. claims he needs to talk about his wife now or he will die in the streets.
“they’re perfect,” antony interrupted gently.
he wrapped his arms around his wife and held her shaking, crying frame closer.“they’re so perfect, cecelia. mamma’s boys, right?” AND HIM SQUISHED IN HER TINY HOSPITAL BED TOO HE LOVES HER SO MUCH FUCK
antony wrestled the phone from his wife’s hand, jumped out of the bed so she couldn’t take it back, and somehow managed to dodge the pillow she threw at him all at the same time.
“you … asshole,” cecelia muttered.
“yours, though.”
“good thing.”
antony picked up the call, tossing his wife a wink at the same time.
MIND YOU THIS IS THE VOLATILE TAKE-NO-BULLSHIT CAPO WHO’S MIDDLE NAME IS VIOLENCE THAT THEY FEAR ?!*#?@¥€/$!?
[taps mic] best mafia men? christian allister and antony marcello mayhaps! 🔐
January 20, 2021
i didn’t expect much from this book as it is a prequel to the series, but I enjoyed this novella and I’m curious to see what’s to come for Lucian, Giovanni and Dante
February 11, 2021
Okay so the mafia element in this book was superior okay I loved it. Like okay it was like the perfect mix of like scary mafia, with like loving dad, witj loke hot husband, with like so much Idk no words. I loved the whole book Sm and shït idk
October 30, 2020
Nothing special for me but Antony was a good father and good friend.
August 24, 2016
Yay it's KU
OMG this was an awesome filthy ride. Antony came close to surpassing my love for Anton in BK Russian Gun Series.
Antony was a delicious H. All alpha male who straight up loved his family which included his friends. He did what he had to do to for him & his family to survive & made no apologies for it. He doesn't want or seek redemption from the Mob which he believes in.
The writing flowed well & showed snapshots of Anton's life up until the beginning of Lucian his sons book. B/c I loved Anton to the a ridiculous degree I wanted more of his mob life & life w/ Cecelia & their children as youngsters.
I'm not into a H who cheat & abuse their family. I don't want to read about any of that. If that's want u like in a book than I would pass on this one. Cecelia was everything to him. I loved their steamy sex scenes. He is no pushover. I also liked the h.
I read this in KU but will buy it since I will re read.
OMG this was an awesome filthy ride. Antony came close to surpassing my love for Anton in BK Russian Gun Series.
Antony was a delicious H. All alpha male who straight up loved his family which included his friends. He did what he had to do to for him & his family to survive & made no apologies for it. He doesn't want or seek redemption from the Mob which he believes in.
The writing flowed well & showed snapshots of Anton's life up until the beginning of Lucian his sons book. B/c I loved Anton to the a ridiculous degree I wanted more of his mob life & life w/ Cecelia & their children as youngsters.
I'm not into a H who cheat & abuse their family. I don't want to read about any of that. If that's want u like in a book than I would pass on this one. Cecelia was everything to him. I loved their steamy sex scenes. He is no pushover. I also liked the h.
I read this in KU but will buy it since I will re read.
September 4, 2016
This my second book by this author.
I decided not to read the books in the order they were published. I read Antony's story first because he is the father of Lucian, Giovanni and Dante. Then I will read Dante's story next because he becomes the next Dom taking over from Antony then I will read the other two.
What I like about this author's Mafia stories is all the women know exactly what they are marrying into. All her leading men treat their leading ladies with respect and care about their feelings I love that about the relationships. The men are still in charge but they care very much that their women are happy.
I am enjoying the series.
I decided not to read the books in the order they were published. I read Antony's story first because he is the father of Lucian, Giovanni and Dante. Then I will read Dante's story next because he becomes the next Dom taking over from Antony then I will read the other two.
What I like about this author's Mafia stories is all the women know exactly what they are marrying into. All her leading men treat their leading ladies with respect and care about their feelings I love that about the relationships. The men are still in charge but they care very much that their women are happy.
I am enjoying the series.
December 5, 2018
4 amazing Marcello's 🌟🌟 🌟🌟!!
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