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The Italian Series #1
The Italian
They say there are three things you should do at least once in your life:
Dance like nobody’s watching.
Travel the world.
And fall hopelessly in love.
I aimed to do all three.
I went to Italy to find myself.
But he found me.
It was like a story book, our eyes met across a crowded room.
He asked me if I needed help reading the menu.
We ate, we laughed, we danced, and I fell.
Unfortunately, things didn’t go to plan, and we parted ways.
Two years later, our eyes meet across a room again.
Only this time I was on a date with another man.
He went crazy in a jealous fit.
But the man I met then is different now.
He’s colder, harder, and officially one of the most powerful men in Italy.
Dare I say it, even more enticing.
But if you dance with the devil, you get burnt.
And the fires in Italy are scalding hot.
Dance like nobody’s watching.
Travel the world.
And fall hopelessly in love.
I aimed to do all three.
I went to Italy to find myself.
But he found me.
It was like a story book, our eyes met across a crowded room.
He asked me if I needed help reading the menu.
We ate, we laughed, we danced, and I fell.
Unfortunately, things didn’t go to plan, and we parted ways.
Two years later, our eyes meet across a room again.
Only this time I was on a date with another man.
He went crazy in a jealous fit.
But the man I met then is different now.
He’s colder, harder, and officially one of the most powerful men in Italy.
Dare I say it, even more enticing.
But if you dance with the devil, you get burnt.
And the fires in Italy are scalding hot.
598 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 28, 2019
8,135 people are currently reading
12.6k people want to read
About the author
T.L. Swan
33 books21.6k followersT L Swan is a #1 Amazon best-selling author and a professional daydream believer. Based on the scenic South Coast of NSW with her husband and three kids, she's seen her books take the romance world by storm with multiple #1 best sellers and translated editions of her books in over 20 languages.
Best known for "The Miles High Club" series, all of her books exist in an inter-connected universe that exudes luxury and desire. Her mission is crafting steamy, tender, and unforgettable romantic stories that stay with you long after you’ve closed the book.
Best known for "The Miles High Club" series, all of her books exist in an inter-connected universe that exudes luxury and desire. Her mission is crafting steamy, tender, and unforgettable romantic stories that stay with you long after you’ve closed the book.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,834 reviews
August 9, 2020
Beware of spoilers!
***********
Yuck I went back and finished this because I was curious and I really wish I hadn’t. The h was a doormat extraordinaire!!!!!! Every tune they had a fight it somehow turned around on her and she ended up soothing the H. The H was mean and angry with her all the time and she just went running back to him with no problem at all. The H was also a childish asshole. I’m just going to leave some quotes here.....
———————————
“You think I’m not sentimental?” he yells like a madman. “Explain to me why the hell I couldn’t orgasm for two years without imagining I was with you.”
My heart drops. “Two fucking years I lived a lie with every other woman, while my heart ached for only you!” He turns and hurls the glass into the kitchen sink so hard that it smashes.
He storms up the hall, and I hear the bedroom door slam. I hear something hit the wall with force. I stare at the broken glass in the sink, and my eyes fill with tears.
God, I’m a bitch.
(Somehow this fight was turned around on the doormat h and she ends up feeling sorry for his “unpleasant” sex life while they were apart)
———————————————
He’s beginning to annoy me now. “I have to go, Enrico. I’m going to be late. Have a safe flight. I love you.” I hang up.
The phone rings immediately again and his name lights up the screen. I exhale heavily.
“Yes?”
“Don’t hang up on me.” The phone goes dead as he returns the favor.
(Childish)
———————————————
(This lovely scene is with the H and the woman from the scene in the beginning. She works for him and had been consistently fucking him during the 2 year separation of the h and H. Oh and she also had a key to his house. Of course she dies right after this scene though)
“You’re not.” I take her into my arms and hold her. “It’s all right,” I whisper into her hair. “You’re safe now.”
“I haven’t felt safe since you left me,” she whispers against my neck.
I feel her breath on my skin. She lifts her hand, and the gold bangles that she always wears rattle together.
It’s a familiar sound—one that evokes memories. I feel an unwelcome wave of arousal seep into my body. I instantly release her from my grip and take a step back.
When Sophia fucks, the sound of her bangles hitting together echoes throughout the room. The harder she fucks, the louder the sound.
Fucking her is like a game a child would play to hear the sound—to make it louder. It’s the ultimate aphrodisiac. A goal that drives a man wild. Anytime I hear bangles clang together, I have a physical reaction. I clench my jaw as I try to chase away the memory.
———————————————
This story had potential and if you can deal with the stuff I mentioned here, you might like it. I love a possessive H, but this H didn’t feel like the right kind of possessive to me, he just felt mean to me but that’s just my opinion. Others might like him idk. I didn’t like him spending time and going to lunch with the woman he was with after the h either.
Honestly, if that last scene with the ow hadn’t been added, it would’ve been a two star. It was completely unnecessary. Everything would’ve worked out the same way if he hadn’t gotten aroused by her. Oh yeah there’s also a part where the same ow sneaks into the H’s bed using her key to his house. She begins to do sexual things to him and he thinks it’s the h so he starts enjoying it. Once he realizes it not the h, he kicks her out. I didn’t have a problem with this as he didn’t know it was the h (although how could you not) my problem was that he never told the h about this. He never tells her about ANY of the times he’s with this woman. One of the big contributors to my 1 star rating. To be honest he really never tells her anything about anything.
So overall, some people might love this story it just really wasn’t my cup of tea!
———————————————-
DNF @ 18%
After being cruel and abandoning the h, H has sex three times a week for 18 months. Sometimes with girls from his brothel and sometimes with girls he picks up. And he thinks about the h while he does it
***********
Yuck I went back and finished this because I was curious and I really wish I hadn’t. The h was a doormat extraordinaire!!!!!! Every tune they had a fight it somehow turned around on her and she ended up soothing the H. The H was mean and angry with her all the time and she just went running back to him with no problem at all. The H was also a childish asshole. I’m just going to leave some quotes here.....
———————————
“You think I’m not sentimental?” he yells like a madman. “Explain to me why the hell I couldn’t orgasm for two years without imagining I was with you.”
My heart drops. “Two fucking years I lived a lie with every other woman, while my heart ached for only you!” He turns and hurls the glass into the kitchen sink so hard that it smashes.
He storms up the hall, and I hear the bedroom door slam. I hear something hit the wall with force. I stare at the broken glass in the sink, and my eyes fill with tears.
God, I’m a bitch.
(Somehow this fight was turned around on the doormat h and she ends up feeling sorry for his “unpleasant” sex life while they were apart)
———————————————
He’s beginning to annoy me now. “I have to go, Enrico. I’m going to be late. Have a safe flight. I love you.” I hang up.
The phone rings immediately again and his name lights up the screen. I exhale heavily.
“Yes?”
“Don’t hang up on me.” The phone goes dead as he returns the favor.
(Childish)
———————————————
(This lovely scene is with the H and the woman from the scene in the beginning. She works for him and had been consistently fucking him during the 2 year separation of the h and H. Oh and she also had a key to his house. Of course she dies right after this scene though)
“You’re not.” I take her into my arms and hold her. “It’s all right,” I whisper into her hair. “You’re safe now.”
“I haven’t felt safe since you left me,” she whispers against my neck.
I feel her breath on my skin. She lifts her hand, and the gold bangles that she always wears rattle together.
It’s a familiar sound—one that evokes memories. I feel an unwelcome wave of arousal seep into my body. I instantly release her from my grip and take a step back.
When Sophia fucks, the sound of her bangles hitting together echoes throughout the room. The harder she fucks, the louder the sound.
Fucking her is like a game a child would play to hear the sound—to make it louder. It’s the ultimate aphrodisiac. A goal that drives a man wild. Anytime I hear bangles clang together, I have a physical reaction. I clench my jaw as I try to chase away the memory.
———————————————
This story had potential and if you can deal with the stuff I mentioned here, you might like it. I love a possessive H, but this H didn’t feel like the right kind of possessive to me, he just felt mean to me but that’s just my opinion. Others might like him idk. I didn’t like him spending time and going to lunch with the woman he was with after the h either.
Honestly, if that last scene with the ow hadn’t been added, it would’ve been a two star. It was completely unnecessary. Everything would’ve worked out the same way if he hadn’t gotten aroused by her. Oh yeah there’s also a part where the same ow sneaks into the H’s bed using her key to his house. She begins to do sexual things to him and he thinks it’s the h so he starts enjoying it. Once he realizes it not the h, he kicks her out. I didn’t have a problem with this as he didn’t know it was the h (although how could you not) my problem was that he never told the h about this. He never tells her about ANY of the times he’s with this woman. One of the big contributors to my 1 star rating. To be honest he really never tells her anything about anything.
So overall, some people might love this story it just really wasn’t my cup of tea!
———————————————-
DNF @ 18%
After being cruel and abandoning the h, H has sex three times a week for 18 months. Sometimes with girls from his brothel and sometimes with girls he picks up. And he thinks about the h while he does it
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 31, 2020
The Italian is one of those books I think you're either going to love or hate. Actually, with some of the details in it I'm pretty sure that's the case. It's either a win for you or a loss.
The story centers around Enrico Ferrara, an Italian policeman in Rome and Olivia Reynolds, an Aussie clothing designer on a 5 week holiday that's coming near to a close in Italy. He approaches her while out with his younger brother at a restaurant and the two hit it off. There's instant attraction - he's hot as hell, sweet, flirtatious, dominant in the bedroom (as she soon finds out) and an all around nice guy. After the first night together when she throws caution to the wind, they end up spending a wild and blissful weekend at his 'apartment'. When they get there that she realizes he may be a policeman but his family is seriously loaded. The Ferrara name in Italy is actually attached to billions in hotels, auto manufacturing - they're a huge conglomerate and Italian household name. This Olivia is oblivious to. They sightsee all over the city, dine, and create massive steaminess in the bedroom. When it's time for her to go down to the Amalfi Coast for two weeks to hook up with her best friend before coming back to Rome for a few days before going back to Australia, they exchange numbers, promise to stay in touch everyday and see each other when she gets back.
Only that never happens. Just after seeing her off at the airport Enrico gets one of those dreaded telephone calls regarding family one never wants to get. There has been a serious accident and his world flips from the outcome. Not only is he dealing with the results of the accident but he is also dealt a shocking blow when this leads to family secrets coming to light and putting him in a place of being forced to make a commitment to something he does not want nor believes in. He is overwhelmed, angry, absolutely betrayed and resentful of his situation. To say this changes him is an understatement.
For Olivia, not hearing from Enrico or ever having him answer her messages while she's on the coast stings and leads her to believe he was just a player and she swears to write him off. And when she arrives back in Rome for her flight home, their original plans are dust in the wind.
Cut to almost two years later, and Olivia is still designing pyjamas for a store chain but has put in serious time, resources and resumes to try to get with a good fashion house. She applies to the New York branch of Valentino but ends up being given a job in the Milan branch instead, hmm wonder how that happened. And surprise, surprise, she runs into Enrico again. But this time he's not the free spirited soft guy she met. He's hard and unyielding and seemingly way out of line with how possessive he is of her and how jealous. This guy hasn't seen her in almost 2 years after seemingly blowing her off and that's how he's going to act? Olivia wants no part of it even though she never forgot him, try what she may.
Of course, she eventually caves. The fact is while she's thought of him for all this time, he's also constantly thought of her too. But here's the rub for some people - Enrico has been sexually active during the time period they were both in their respective countries. There is even a scene with the OW in the book. Also, when his real businesses are revealed - mafia related - OW remains in the picture as she has been part of the business longer than he has. Which leads to one meeting where she comes on to him and although he rebuffs her, there are those that will get upset that he still sees her as a beautiful woman and for a moment has a near almost pavlovian moment regarding sense memory that starts to turn his body on. I know that's a no go for a lot of romance readers but once again, I really didn't care.
He has a few other choice moments as well as he tries to figure out how to keep Olivia for himself whilst feeling that he has to bow to tradition and this leads him into hot and cold land with a temper to boot quite often. And yeah, this caused me to want to punch him in the face more than once! But no matter what, Rici (Enrico) is hot as fuck and he does dearly love Olivia, she's the one. To me, he just didn't know how to balance all the new weight, the constant surprises being pushed in his face, his regard to her safety and his obligations to his family to stay traditional.
Their sex is hot and steamy and happens often, sometimes with Olivia using it to placate Rici and calm his anger and anxiety. Some will see her as a weak heroine. I saw her as a woman in love who finally made a choice and stuck with it, damn the consequences. I also didn't see her as oblivious, I saw her as choosing to keep a foot in denial for awhile so she didn't have to choose what she loved about him or how she would.
All in all, I really enjoyed this book. For me, I got it. I got these two people and the bind that ties them no matter what they try. And his trip back to Rome with her, the Parthenon and the wine glass he's kept and his never having had a day without her in his mind - yeah, maybe I'm a pushover too but I saw both sides of him (the bastard and the softie) and like Olivia, I chose him too.
My only problem I had with the book was actually none of the things listed above but instead the end. It felt as if all the danger, suspense, constantly uncovered secrets and 'how do we get past these things' all wrapped up too fast and even though I was happy with the epilogue and the choice he made to break a cycle, I still think given the journey, the author could've given more.
But all in all, I loved The Italian. Maybe I just don't have enough triggers but I dug Rici in all his macho fuckedupness and it was interesting to see a young Australian woman give up home to commit to an entirely different country and way of life.
So yeah, I'm gonna differ in opinion with quite a few probably and say for the huge majority, I really loved this book. Mentally kicking his ass at times was actually fun for me. This was a hot and steamy read and I actually dug his dominance. Oh, yeah, and his cock too. That definitely was a factor ; ) !!
So I'm gonna go with 4**** 'let's get in on stars' with a slice of sentimentality on the side. But that 5th I'm gonna have to shave off for rushing the ending and throwing off the pace. Still though, very satisfying!
The story centers around Enrico Ferrara, an Italian policeman in Rome and Olivia Reynolds, an Aussie clothing designer on a 5 week holiday that's coming near to a close in Italy. He approaches her while out with his younger brother at a restaurant and the two hit it off. There's instant attraction - he's hot as hell, sweet, flirtatious, dominant in the bedroom (as she soon finds out) and an all around nice guy. After the first night together when she throws caution to the wind, they end up spending a wild and blissful weekend at his 'apartment'. When they get there that she realizes he may be a policeman but his family is seriously loaded. The Ferrara name in Italy is actually attached to billions in hotels, auto manufacturing - they're a huge conglomerate and Italian household name. This Olivia is oblivious to. They sightsee all over the city, dine, and create massive steaminess in the bedroom. When it's time for her to go down to the Amalfi Coast for two weeks to hook up with her best friend before coming back to Rome for a few days before going back to Australia, they exchange numbers, promise to stay in touch everyday and see each other when she gets back.
Only that never happens. Just after seeing her off at the airport Enrico gets one of those dreaded telephone calls regarding family one never wants to get. There has been a serious accident and his world flips from the outcome. Not only is he dealing with the results of the accident but he is also dealt a shocking blow when this leads to family secrets coming to light and putting him in a place of being forced to make a commitment to something he does not want nor believes in. He is overwhelmed, angry, absolutely betrayed and resentful of his situation. To say this changes him is an understatement.
For Olivia, not hearing from Enrico or ever having him answer her messages while she's on the coast stings and leads her to believe he was just a player and she swears to write him off. And when she arrives back in Rome for her flight home, their original plans are dust in the wind.
Cut to almost two years later, and Olivia is still designing pyjamas for a store chain but has put in serious time, resources and resumes to try to get with a good fashion house. She applies to the New York branch of Valentino but ends up being given a job in the Milan branch instead, hmm wonder how that happened. And surprise, surprise, she runs into Enrico again. But this time he's not the free spirited soft guy she met. He's hard and unyielding and seemingly way out of line with how possessive he is of her and how jealous. This guy hasn't seen her in almost 2 years after seemingly blowing her off and that's how he's going to act? Olivia wants no part of it even though she never forgot him, try what she may.
Of course, she eventually caves. The fact is while she's thought of him for all this time, he's also constantly thought of her too. But here's the rub for some people - Enrico has been sexually active during the time period they were both in their respective countries. There is even a scene with the OW in the book. Also, when his real businesses are revealed - mafia related - OW remains in the picture as she has been part of the business longer than he has. Which leads to one meeting where she comes on to him and although he rebuffs her, there are those that will get upset that he still sees her as a beautiful woman and for a moment has a near almost pavlovian moment regarding sense memory that starts to turn his body on. I know that's a no go for a lot of romance readers but once again, I really didn't care.
He has a few other choice moments as well as he tries to figure out how to keep Olivia for himself whilst feeling that he has to bow to tradition and this leads him into hot and cold land with a temper to boot quite often. And yeah, this caused me to want to punch him in the face more than once! But no matter what, Rici (Enrico) is hot as fuck and he does dearly love Olivia, she's the one. To me, he just didn't know how to balance all the new weight, the constant surprises being pushed in his face, his regard to her safety and his obligations to his family to stay traditional.
Their sex is hot and steamy and happens often, sometimes with Olivia using it to placate Rici and calm his anger and anxiety. Some will see her as a weak heroine. I saw her as a woman in love who finally made a choice and stuck with it, damn the consequences. I also didn't see her as oblivious, I saw her as choosing to keep a foot in denial for awhile so she didn't have to choose what she loved about him or how she would.
All in all, I really enjoyed this book. For me, I got it. I got these two people and the bind that ties them no matter what they try. And his trip back to Rome with her, the Parthenon and the wine glass he's kept and his never having had a day without her in his mind - yeah, maybe I'm a pushover too but I saw both sides of him (the bastard and the softie) and like Olivia, I chose him too.
My only problem I had with the book was actually none of the things listed above but instead the end. It felt as if all the danger, suspense, constantly uncovered secrets and 'how do we get past these things' all wrapped up too fast and even though I was happy with the epilogue and the choice he made to break a cycle, I still think given the journey, the author could've given more.
But all in all, I loved The Italian. Maybe I just don't have enough triggers but I dug Rici in all his macho fuckedupness and it was interesting to see a young Australian woman give up home to commit to an entirely different country and way of life.
So yeah, I'm gonna differ in opinion with quite a few probably and say for the huge majority, I really loved this book. Mentally kicking his ass at times was actually fun for me. This was a hot and steamy read and I actually dug his dominance. Oh, yeah, and his cock too. That definitely was a factor ; ) !!
So I'm gonna go with 4**** 'let's get in on stars' with a slice of sentimentality on the side. But that 5th I'm gonna have to shave off for rushing the ending and throwing off the pace. Still though, very satisfying!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Shelved as 'not-for-me'
March 3, 2022Note to self-spoilers on ow (and pubic hair)
The H consistently sleeps with lots of OW during two-year separation while the h is CELIBATE (of course 🤬) 3 times a week. Sometimes the women he picks up are from his brothel or random ones he picks up. H makes h feel bad saying he can only orgasm if he pictures her face while f*cking OW. Yeah. So romantic. Pat yourself on the back for still thinking of the h while being deep in OW 🙄😐.
ETA- also, he tells the h she can be his side piece while he’s married to an Italian woman.
Ohhh and the h is obsessed by the H’s pubic hair. Thank you Mia for the spoilers on this (I kind of laughed lol)
The H consistently sleeps with lots of OW during two-year separation while the h is CELIBATE (of course 🤬) 3 times a week. Sometimes the women he picks up are from his brothel or random ones he picks up. H makes h feel bad saying he can only orgasm if he pictures her face while f*cking OW. Yeah. So romantic. Pat yourself on the back for still thinking of the h while being deep in OW 🙄😐.
ETA- also, he tells the h she can be his side piece while he’s married to an Italian woman.
Ohhh and the h is obsessed by the H’s pubic hair. Thank you Mia for the spoilers on this (I kind of laughed lol)
October 16, 2021
An abhorrent anti-hero...a farce of epic proportions, disguised as romance. This is the second book I have read by this author and evidently I am not this writer’s target audience. Enrico is a dictating, borderline abusive, lacking substance, main character and undeserving of the title ‘Hero’. His personality doesn’t resonate strong and possessive, more domineering and tyrannical. He calls Olivia a wh*re, therefore she is compelled to confront the man slut to admit that she’s been pining for him.
Olivia was spineless, led by her hormones acting as a randy teenager and rarely sticking to her convictions.
New to being a crime boss, he adapts quite easily to his inherited lifestyle. No redeeming qualities to identify other than arrogance.
His mother gave him her blessing to marry for love (cough...control), after he admitted Olivia was not Italian. This was after he’d insulted Olivia by offering her Sophia’s naked tango role...which she politely declined.
Excerpt:::
Although there are some conditions that you will need to adhere to.”
“Conditions?”
“You will become a practicing Catholic.”
“You will learn Italian and speak it as your first language.”
“You will be under guard twenty-four hours a day, and will not go anywhere unaccompanied.”
“You will move to Lake Como with me, into my main residence.”
“You will become an Italian citizen.”
“I want you, in every sense of the word.”
“You want me to become… Italian?”
“What makes you think we will work now, when two weeks ago, you were so sure that we had no chance?”
“You could at least act a little excited,” he whispers half annoyed.
(Incredulous she isn’t gratified he has deemed her worthy).
“I’m not Italian, Rici.”
“And besides, I don’t know if I want to even live with you.”
“That’s non-negotiable. I need you with me.”
Of course, she happily throws herself into his arms and gushes.
Convoluted story, the crime lords are in a battle for ultimate supremacy.
A half brother and sister are in love blissfully unaware the same man, fathered them both!
Befriending an undercover policewoman, planted to obtain information.
Enrico betrays Olivia by his illicit meetings with Sophia.
He doesn’t share and she lives in a constant state of arousal.
When is it acceptable protocol for a prostitute/bed warmer to invite herself to his home and intimidate the fiancée? He granted her that power...then acts outraged.
Heroes do NOT fantasise about other women...especially in romancelandia. I’m not certain I can garner respect for someone so lacking in self-respect.
Olivia was spineless, led by her hormones acting as a randy teenager and rarely sticking to her convictions.
New to being a crime boss, he adapts quite easily to his inherited lifestyle. No redeeming qualities to identify other than arrogance.
His mother gave him her blessing to marry for love (cough...control), after he admitted Olivia was not Italian. This was after he’d insulted Olivia by offering her Sophia’s naked tango role...which she politely declined.
Excerpt:::
Although there are some conditions that you will need to adhere to.”
“Conditions?”
“You will become a practicing Catholic.”
“You will learn Italian and speak it as your first language.”
“You will be under guard twenty-four hours a day, and will not go anywhere unaccompanied.”
“You will move to Lake Como with me, into my main residence.”
“You will become an Italian citizen.”
“I want you, in every sense of the word.”
“You want me to become… Italian?”
“What makes you think we will work now, when two weeks ago, you were so sure that we had no chance?”
“You could at least act a little excited,” he whispers half annoyed.
(Incredulous she isn’t gratified he has deemed her worthy).
“I’m not Italian, Rici.”
“And besides, I don’t know if I want to even live with you.”
“That’s non-negotiable. I need you with me.”
Of course, she happily throws herself into his arms and gushes.
Convoluted story, the crime lords are in a battle for ultimate supremacy.
A half brother and sister are in love blissfully unaware the same man, fathered them both!
Befriending an undercover policewoman, planted to obtain information.
Enrico betrays Olivia by his illicit meetings with Sophia.
He doesn’t share and she lives in a constant state of arousal.
When is it acceptable protocol for a prostitute/bed warmer to invite herself to his home and intimidate the fiancée? He granted her that power...then acts outraged.
Heroes do NOT fantasise about other women...especially in romancelandia. I’m not certain I can garner respect for someone so lacking in self-respect.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 10, 2023
“It’s having someone love you and all your faults, even when you forget to love yourself.”
I'm slowly making my way through TL Swan's catalog, and I'm so happy I'm doing that. I love the way she writes because I always feel like I'm part of the story - I'm always pulled into it, and then it's hard to avoid having a book hangover.
I couldn’t tell you if anyone else is here, because all I can see is him.
Enrico Ferrara is the stuff of dreams for me. I suppose a lot of readers won't like him, but well, I did. He's alpha, arrogant, and possessive, almost to the point of obsession, but his love is unconditional. He loses control quite easily, and becomes violent, in a justifiable way (and, of course, never towards the heroine). He's protective of his family and the people he loves, which just made him even better. And he has definite character flaws, which made him more real to me. Think of that what you will.
"She’s now a part of me—the calm, sweet, good part. The best part. And I am hers."
I'm sure a lot of people will see Olivia as weak, but she didn't feel like that to me. I think she's the epitome of a woman in love, who desperately tries not to be in love, because she knows it's not good for her. But it can't be helped. She's a clothes designer just going through the motions in her life, and someone who doesn't take a lot of chances – when she takes one with Rico, it backfires. She wasn't always very sharp, and I feel that she should have figured some stuff out earlier, and she did have her insecurities, but that only makes her human.
"When I’m with you, I forget who I am."
Olivia is traveling in Italy and she meets Rico at a restaurant. There's an instant connection and instant chemistry between them. He offers to show her around, and they end up spending the weekend together. When it's over, it's not enough for either of them, and they arrange to meet two weeks later, once she's back from a trip she's taking with a friend.
However, Rico's life changes during those two weeks, and their love story takes a turn for the worst. He's no longer the man she knew – he has responsibilities to his family and the Ferrara empire, with obvious Mafia connections. He needs to let her go. And she's left heartbroken and totally in the dark as to what happened.
"Everyone is looking at us."
"Fuck them." He smirks. "Fuck them all."
Two years later, it's obvious they haven't forgotten each other. Olivia is trying to, but Rico still takes center stage in her brain and her heart. At the same time, Rico makes his own efforts, but she's always on his mind. Before you ask, yes, he is with other women in the meantime, but that didn't matter to me, because I always got the feeling that there was no one like Olivia.
When he has the chance to bring her back to Italy with a job offer she can't refuse just so he can see her again, he takes the chance.
"I’ve waited all my life for you, Olivia," he whispers. My eyes fill with tears.
"Thank God you found me."
Maybe there are too many clichés about Italy here. Maybe she should have made it harder for him. Maybe he shouldn't have been so hot and then cold. Maybe the reader should have been left in the dark about him having been with other women, one of them someone he works with. Lots of maybes here, but I can't bring myself to care about any of it.
To be fair, it's hard not to fall head over heels with Rico. I think resisting him was never an option.
Sex between them is hot. Like, off-the-charts hot, in every way. It makes me want to travel to Italy on my own to see if I can find myself a guy like him.
And look, if you're looking for a 'real' Mafia romance, this isn't it. The Mafia, family, and tradition elements are all important, but nothing could take the focus away from the two main characters for me. It's an interesting backdrop, with hints of suspense, that added to the experience and also set the stage for future books in the series – I'm sure some of the things left hanging with this one will be explained in Ferrara.
"We can’t live without each other. We tried, and it didn’t work."
Rico and Olivia tried to stay away from each other. Life kept trying to keep them apart. But they were simply meant to be.
I'm slowly making my way through TL Swan's catalog, and I'm so happy I'm doing that. I love the way she writes because I always feel like I'm part of the story - I'm always pulled into it, and then it's hard to avoid having a book hangover.
I couldn’t tell you if anyone else is here, because all I can see is him.
Enrico Ferrara is the stuff of dreams for me. I suppose a lot of readers won't like him, but well, I did. He's alpha, arrogant, and possessive, almost to the point of obsession, but his love is unconditional. He loses control quite easily, and becomes violent, in a justifiable way (and, of course, never towards the heroine). He's protective of his family and the people he loves, which just made him even better. And he has definite character flaws, which made him more real to me. Think of that what you will.
"She’s now a part of me—the calm, sweet, good part. The best part. And I am hers."
I'm sure a lot of people will see Olivia as weak, but she didn't feel like that to me. I think she's the epitome of a woman in love, who desperately tries not to be in love, because she knows it's not good for her. But it can't be helped. She's a clothes designer just going through the motions in her life, and someone who doesn't take a lot of chances – when she takes one with Rico, it backfires. She wasn't always very sharp, and I feel that she should have figured some stuff out earlier, and she did have her insecurities, but that only makes her human.
"When I’m with you, I forget who I am."
Olivia is traveling in Italy and she meets Rico at a restaurant. There's an instant connection and instant chemistry between them. He offers to show her around, and they end up spending the weekend together. When it's over, it's not enough for either of them, and they arrange to meet two weeks later, once she's back from a trip she's taking with a friend.
However, Rico's life changes during those two weeks, and their love story takes a turn for the worst. He's no longer the man she knew – he has responsibilities to his family and the Ferrara empire, with obvious Mafia connections. He needs to let her go. And she's left heartbroken and totally in the dark as to what happened.
"Everyone is looking at us."
"Fuck them." He smirks. "Fuck them all."
Two years later, it's obvious they haven't forgotten each other. Olivia is trying to, but Rico still takes center stage in her brain and her heart. At the same time, Rico makes his own efforts, but she's always on his mind. Before you ask, yes, he is with other women in the meantime, but that didn't matter to me, because I always got the feeling that there was no one like Olivia.
When he has the chance to bring her back to Italy with a job offer she can't refuse just so he can see her again, he takes the chance.
"I’ve waited all my life for you, Olivia," he whispers. My eyes fill with tears.
"Thank God you found me."
Maybe there are too many clichés about Italy here. Maybe she should have made it harder for him. Maybe he shouldn't have been so hot and then cold. Maybe the reader should have been left in the dark about him having been with other women, one of them someone he works with. Lots of maybes here, but I can't bring myself to care about any of it.
To be fair, it's hard not to fall head over heels with Rico. I think resisting him was never an option.
Sex between them is hot. Like, off-the-charts hot, in every way. It makes me want to travel to Italy on my own to see if I can find myself a guy like him.
And look, if you're looking for a 'real' Mafia romance, this isn't it. The Mafia, family, and tradition elements are all important, but nothing could take the focus away from the two main characters for me. It's an interesting backdrop, with hints of suspense, that added to the experience and also set the stage for future books in the series – I'm sure some of the things left hanging with this one will be explained in Ferrara.
"We can’t live without each other. We tried, and it didn’t work."
Rico and Olivia tried to stay away from each other. Life kept trying to keep them apart. But they were simply meant to be.
Read
August 17, 2024DNF AT %60
I honestly dgaf that during their 3 year seperation, the FMC (Olivia) stayed celibate while the MMC (Enrico) didn't. No big deal for me.
The reason why I DNF this is Olivia is fucking DUMB. She pissed me the fuck off, like how do you live like this?
First of all, she literally uses "Wowsers." Like girl, how old are you?
Second of all, she shames a woman with her equally dumb friend just for talking to Enrico? Which is nasty behavior.
Ew.
Third of all, she learns that this man Enrico runs a brothel, and she still thinks he is a normal corporate CEO💀
Girl.
And when she learns that he is in the mafia she is SHOCKED, like she doesn't know that he owns and runs BROTHELS?
Fourth of all, she does a whole villian speech to Enrico about hating him, never wanting to see him, and then she goes to meet him like, 3 hours later.
To make it worse, that is the text he sends. She folds for that. Afer a villian speech. This middle aged man is using XO.
And yeah, Enrico has the emotional maturity of a 6 year old, he wants something, suddenly he does not, he literally asked her to become his mistress because he has to marry a Italian woman.
That does not sound like a AlPhA man to me.
I honestly dgaf that during their 3 year seperation, the FMC (Olivia) stayed celibate while the MMC (Enrico) didn't. No big deal for me.
The reason why I DNF this is Olivia is fucking DUMB. She pissed me the fuck off, like how do you live like this?
First of all, she literally uses "Wowsers." Like girl, how old are you?
Second of all, she shames a woman with her equally dumb friend just for talking to Enrico? Which is nasty behavior.
“Yes.” She rolls her eyes. “She’s getting all touchy and putting her hand on his chest.” “Stupid bitch,” I whisper. “Yes, hands off, mole.” She frowns.
Ew.
Third of all, she learns that this man Enrico runs a brothel, and she still thinks he is a normal corporate CEO💀
Girl.
And when she learns that he is in the mafia she is SHOCKED, like she doesn't know that he owns and runs BROTHELS?
Fourth of all, she does a whole villian speech to Enrico about hating him, never wanting to see him, and then she goes to meet him like, 3 hours later.
I need to see you tonight.
Luciano’s Italian at 7: 00 p.m.
Rici xo
To make it worse, that is the text he sends. She folds for that. Afer a villian speech. This middle aged man is using XO.
And yeah, Enrico has the emotional maturity of a 6 year old, he wants something, suddenly he does not, he literally asked her to become his mistress because he has to marry a Italian woman.
That does not sound like a AlPhA man to me.
February 28, 2022
When I started read this book, I didn’t like, really. It was so predictable and unbelievable.
But...
This author has magic with words, because everything she writes is beautiful.
I can’t wait to read the next!
But...
This author has magic with words, because everything she writes is beautiful.
I can’t wait to read the next!
October 18, 2021
I am devastated. I was absolutely loving this book until I get to this part:
She lifts her hand, and the gold bangles that she always wears rattle together.
It’s a familiar sound—one that evokes memories. I feel an unwelcome wave of arousal seep into my body. I instantly release her from my grip and take a step back.
When Sophia fucks, the sound of her bangles hitting together echoes throughout the room. The harder she fucks, the louder the sound.
Fucking her is like a game a child would play to hear the sound—to make it louder. It’s the ultimate aphrodisiac. A goal that drives a man wild. Anytime I hear bangles clang together, I have a physical reaction. I clench my jaw as I try to chase away the memory.
“I miss you,” she whispers.
“Don’t.”
She steps forward and takes my hand to place it over her heart. “How can you push me aside so easily?” Her eyes fill with tears.
“Sophia.” I don’t like seeing her like this.
“I love you, Enrico.”
“Sophia,” I whisper.
“You need to understand that I’m with Olivia now.”
“Why do you think it has to be me or her?” Her eyes search mine. “You can have me, too, my darling.”
Our eyes are locked as the air swirls between us.
“You can be married to her and you can love me, too.”
We stare at each other.
“We need each other, Enrico. We need each other’s bodies.” She smiles softly despite her tears. “I can’t come without you. Nobody fucks me like you do.” She lowers my hand to her breast. “Nobody can get the job done. I need your body. No other will do. How could I go back to another man after having you?”
Memories pass between us. Nothing is off the table with Sophia. There’s no denying the woman is on fire in bed.
Keep in mind this is not the heroine and this happened almost at the end of the story. Now I don't mind other women drama that much, but he literally LUSTS after her when his FIANCE is pregnant. I don't know if I'll finish it eventually because I was enjoying it so much, but my god this one scene totally ruined everything for me. If this was closer to the beginning of the book and the main characters hadn't developed such an intense relationship I would be more open to it, but how can you have the main male character when he's literally about to marry the main female main character have such thoughts about another woman (who by the way has been horrible to the heroine)??
She lifts her hand, and the gold bangles that she always wears rattle together.
It’s a familiar sound—one that evokes memories. I feel an unwelcome wave of arousal seep into my body. I instantly release her from my grip and take a step back.
When Sophia fucks, the sound of her bangles hitting together echoes throughout the room. The harder she fucks, the louder the sound.
Fucking her is like a game a child would play to hear the sound—to make it louder. It’s the ultimate aphrodisiac. A goal that drives a man wild. Anytime I hear bangles clang together, I have a physical reaction. I clench my jaw as I try to chase away the memory.
“I miss you,” she whispers.
“Don’t.”
She steps forward and takes my hand to place it over her heart. “How can you push me aside so easily?” Her eyes fill with tears.
“Sophia.” I don’t like seeing her like this.
“I love you, Enrico.”
“Sophia,” I whisper.
“You need to understand that I’m with Olivia now.”
“Why do you think it has to be me or her?” Her eyes search mine. “You can have me, too, my darling.”
Our eyes are locked as the air swirls between us.
“You can be married to her and you can love me, too.”
We stare at each other.
“We need each other, Enrico. We need each other’s bodies.” She smiles softly despite her tears. “I can’t come without you. Nobody fucks me like you do.” She lowers my hand to her breast. “Nobody can get the job done. I need your body. No other will do. How could I go back to another man after having you?”
Memories pass between us. Nothing is off the table with Sophia. There’s no denying the woman is on fire in bed.
Keep in mind this is not the heroine and this happened almost at the end of the story. Now I don't mind other women drama that much, but he literally LUSTS after her when his FIANCE is pregnant. I don't know if I'll finish it eventually because I was enjoying it so much, but my god this one scene totally ruined everything for me. If this was closer to the beginning of the book and the main characters hadn't developed such an intense relationship I would be more open to it, but how can you have the main male character when he's literally about to marry the main female main character have such thoughts about another woman (who by the way has been horrible to the heroine)??
Read
July 31, 2020DNF
This book is a concentrate of stereotypes on Italy and Italian males and women and Italy as well
Yes I take this as a personally offence
By the way mrs Swan not all Italians are “Mafiosi”
I inform you that we have Italians blond males with blue eye ( married one ) and we have happily passed the threshold on the 21st century women work and study in Italy
By the way I really loved your Mr Masters and Mr Spencers this has ruined your writing to me for a long while
This book is un readable silly plot
Silly h
King of all asshole H
This book is a concentrate of stereotypes on Italy and Italian males and women and Italy as well
Yes I take this as a personally offence
By the way mrs Swan not all Italians are “Mafiosi”
I inform you that we have Italians blond males with blue eye ( married one ) and we have happily passed the threshold on the 21st century women work and study in Italy
By the way I really loved your Mr Masters and Mr Spencers this has ruined your writing to me for a long while
This book is un readable silly plot
Silly h
King of all asshole H
January 14, 2022
So, I’m going to go ahead and do y’all a favor and save you some time. Instead of reading this book, just watch 365 Days on Netflix. The plots aren’t exactly the same, but they are close enough.
If I was to make a Venn diagram of this book and that movie, the center would be crammed with bullet points.
Similiarities:
- Both take place in Italy
- Both have an Italian mafia hero and a non-Italian heroine
- Both are completely OTT and ridiculous
- Both have lots and lots of sex scenes
- Both have plot holes the size of Kansas
But you know what, the movie is like an hour and a half. The Italian clocks in at 594 pages. Some of those pages at the end are just plugs for the author’s other books but still, you can get your smut fix in a hell of a lot less time watching the movie than reading this book.
Not to mention, this book was a train wreck.
The movie, 365 Days was more entertaining than this book and I didn’t have to read scenery descriptions.
Also, just an aside – I don’t know what the hell got so many people up in arms about with the movie’s release? I mean, I’ve read WAY darker and more graphic stuff in romance novels than what appeared in that movie. And for all the fans out there (including the women that traveled from North Carolina to freakin’ POLAND for its release) y’all ladies need to get in on the goodreads game and start reading romance novels, because often (except in this case) the books are much better than what the movies attempt to pull off.
If I was to make a Venn diagram of this book and that movie, the center would be crammed with bullet points.
Similiarities:
- Both take place in Italy
- Both have an Italian mafia hero and a non-Italian heroine
- Both are completely OTT and ridiculous
- Both have lots and lots of sex scenes
- Both have plot holes the size of Kansas
But you know what, the movie is like an hour and a half. The Italian clocks in at 594 pages. Some of those pages at the end are just plugs for the author’s other books but still, you can get your smut fix in a hell of a lot less time watching the movie than reading this book.
Not to mention, this book was a train wreck.
The movie, 365 Days was more entertaining than this book and I didn’t have to read scenery descriptions.
Also, just an aside – I don’t know what the hell got so many people up in arms about with the movie’s release? I mean, I’ve read WAY darker and more graphic stuff in romance novels than what appeared in that movie. And for all the fans out there (including the women that traveled from North Carolina to freakin’ POLAND for its release) y’all ladies need to get in on the goodreads game and start reading romance novels, because often (except in this case) the books are much better than what the movies attempt to pull off.
April 8, 2022
I was just wondering how many times you can fall in love with the same person. I smile. Because just when I think I can’t love you anymore, my heart grows so I can love you harder
I actually did do a long review up till about.. half the book. But its too tiring to highlight and write your thoughts about it for a thick book. Also, I started reading this because I saw Ferrara (the follow up to this) and it was recommended to read this book to understand more.
Mafia is a genre I've not ventured much into these few months, I did when I was younger but I think this is probably one of the few Mafia books I've read.
THIS IS NOT SPOILER FREE
So, about the book:
Olivia is on a five-week vacation in Rome, where she eye-washes all the beautiful Italian men around her. She's sitting at a bar-restaurant and looking at the menu when she sees a sexy Italian from across her smiling and of course she can't hold onto her knickers. My first impression of Enrico is that he's too corny because:
He picks up my hand across the table and slowly kisses the backs of my fingersLike he doesn't need to do that to make a girl feel loved. Olivia is far too gone for her to have any rationality. So they discuss through lingo how Olivia hasn't had sex in a while and (actually, what's the guy's name again) he asked:
He reaches over and picks up a piece of my shoulder length, honey-blonde hair. “So fair,” he says. “Is your hair fair like this everywhere?”Like we all don't know that he's going to inspect Olivia thoroughly throughout the book, please.
Enrico (ah I got it now) is a policeman and Olivia's mind gets distracted with bed frames and handcuffs. I rolled my eyes at all the corny things Enrico says because they're all just "can I fuck you now already" sentences and I'd rather they get it going. So blah blah the plot gets moving and I've got a thing against men who refer to their third standing leg in a third POV:
“I jerked off for two hours trying to get my cock to go down. He wanted you so fucking bad.”because if he had a brain, he wouldn't be doing so at least that's what I think.
She can't hold it in and they go into the water to kiss some more and ... she decides to give a hand job in the water because that's the most rational decision she has made so far:
I want to blow Rico Ferrara’s mind in the Mediterranean SeaThat's fucking disgusting, not only did she do that in the waters she also:
I kiss him and push back to swim away on my backI'm going to check for cum before I go into any sea now.
It's also bad for the author to assume that everyone knows Italian, some of it don't have any translations so I have a tab open while reading this. Who'd want to have sex with a man who doesn't even use his words properly? Am I supposed to be attracted to this man who speaks gibberish from his mouth?
After their 5 rounds of "animal raw" sex, Enrico decides to call Olivia to his home to "clean his bathroom." I have a vague sense of what type of cleaning will it be. After all the cleaning, Olivia left to sightsee another city and Enrico loses both his father and grandfather in a car accident. The timing can't be any better though because there were people who belong to a mafia bidding their goodbyes and so Enrico is confused how is his family so rich:
Where the hell does my family’s money come from? If it’s old money, how far back does it go?
And so that is where the mafia theme comes in and how Enrico was forced to take over the many brothels, hotels and businesses, against his want.
What's the good in this book? I liked the loyalty from the people surrounding Enrico and Olivia, the bodyguards. They all felt like a family, protecting one another. The action part in this book was balanced and I was able to imagine it, it wasn't like out of the world, exaggerated. Sure, Enrico's wealth is something I wish to have too:
There are bags and bags of designer clothes all around. Shoes boxes are stacked in two lots of ten. There’s Christian Louboutin, Manolo Blahnik’s, Valentino, Jimmy Choo, plus a few racks with evening dresses lined up. Six huge bunches of red roses sit in large crystal vases, and there’s a sliver tray of chocolate covered strawberries beside a bottle of the best champagne money can buy(these were his gifts to Olivia btw). And, I have to admit the smut was good at certain points, not much but some. So three stars for that.
What's not good in this book:
1. When they were on their break, Olivia didn't have sex with anyone else but Enrico did. If the love he claimed to be in was true, I think he wouldn't have had to. Also, the fact that he was having sex with another girl and imagining Olivia to get him off is messed up. What's even more messed up is that he told this to Olivia:
Explain to me why the hell I couldn’t orgasm for two years without imagining I was with youand she accepted it. What girl??
2. Initially when the idea of Enrico marrying a non-italian wasn't appealing to him, he suggested this:
So, you’ll have your Italian wife and keep your bloodline with her, and I will be your girlfriend on the side?to Olivia and my jaw literally dropped. Where does the author get these ideas from?
3. Enrico has a set of rules for Olivia to marry him and these are:
You will become a practicing Catholic. You will learn Italian and speak it as your first language. You will be under guard twenty-four hours a day, and will not go anywhere unaccompanied. You will become an Italian citizen. So, we’d never live In Australia? I ask. He purses his lips. NoThe fact that he expects a woman to leave everything behind, including her family and country and friends, just to marry him is ridiculous. If I was Olivia, I would have said fuck off and left. What kind of a relationship is this? It's a prisoner life. I pitied Olivia because she doesn't have her own privacy with the amount of guards and she doesn't get to meet her friends in public. Enrico's life is very territorial on Olivia and I don't think that's healthy at all.
4. Olivia has an obsession with Rico's pubic hair, throughout the book:
Over his rippled abs, too, and then lower to his perfectly kept pubic hair and dickOkay, I get it about the pubic hair, do I really have to keep thinking about how the man in the cover keeps his pubic hair?????? Or how does it look like????????
This was my first book from the author (and my first read of the month) and I think it wasn't too bad! It is readable, of course some eye rolls here and there but I find it okay-ish. Not phenomenal, but not bad either.
February 24, 2022
5 What a surprise stars!!!!!
I am total TL Swan trash!! I love everything she writes! I don’t care what it’s about,if she’s writing I’m reading!! I love her! She writes what she wants to read, what she sees in a hero and a heroine and I think that’s one of the things I love about her. Her books are what she herself would pick up and get lost in. Most of her characters are wealthy and good looking and hung like horses
I am total TL Swan trash!! I love everything she writes! I don’t care what it’s about,if she’s writing I’m reading!! I love her! She writes what she wants to read, what she sees in a hero and a heroine and I think that’s one of the things I love about her. Her books are what she herself would pick up and get lost in. Most of her characters are wealthy and good looking and hung like horses
November 3, 2019
Honestly this book is rather absurd, it involves OTT drama, and there are moments where the hero is an ass of epic proportions, childish, and worse than a two-year-old having one colossal tantrum. Then there is the heroine - I hate how the heroine sacrifices and sacrifices so easily, the rolling over for the hero and his wants had me more than a little irked, that being said, at times the story/events taking place were so bad that they became rather entertaining – hence the 2 stars for what is a one-time read.
There is a strand of misogyny running throughout this book that didn’t peeve me off as much as it should have/as much as it usually would – maybe due to the fabulously relaxed mood due to a super chilled weekend.
The Dual POV helped things for me.
Full disclosure some skim reading did occur as I read this.
Acquired via KU.
There is a strand of misogyny running throughout this book that didn’t peeve me off as much as it should have/as much as it usually would – maybe due to the fabulously relaxed mood due to a super chilled weekend.
The Dual POV helped things for me.
Full disclosure some skim reading did occur as I read this.
Acquired via KU.
August 1, 2020
99% of my book choices come from reading my go to authors OR great reviews from GR friends ~ then there is that other 1%..where I actually go out on a limb and just read a random book I see! By looking at the cover I am going to guess that he is why, LOL!!!! and I always love reading a romance that takes place in Italy. This definitely worked out because this book was SOOOOO GOOD!!!!!!
Enrico and Olivia had explosive chemistry and the gut wrenching, deep down to the bone...feel it in your toes kind of connection. I was hooked on their story! I smiled, I cried, I was on the edge of my seat, I went through it all!! Not only was the setting in Rome, Milan, and Lake Como - but this actually ended up being a mafia novel, I had no idea as the blurb does not allude to that at all!! Absolutely adored everything about this book!!!! And now, I have another author on my radar!!!
Enrico and Olivia had explosive chemistry and the gut wrenching, deep down to the bone...feel it in your toes kind of connection. I was hooked on their story! I smiled, I cried, I was on the edge of my seat, I went through it all!! Not only was the setting in Rome, Milan, and Lake Como - but this actually ended up being a mafia novel, I had no idea as the blurb does not allude to that at all!! Absolutely adored everything about this book!!!! And now, I have another author on my radar!!!
July 29, 2020
The thoughts that go through Olivia's mind, “do you need some help?” Help with what? Kissing? Undressing? Unzipping your trousers?" Olivia has quite the temper when her man pushes her too far, “you think there’s one set of rules for you, and one set for everyone else, and quite frankly, this spoilt brat attitude you have going on is effing pathetic.” I liled this book, I liked Enrico, even it the man had crazy mood swings.
July 31, 2020
When in Rome ⭐️
I usually write my reviews the second I finish reading the book, but in this case, I took some hours to think about it.
First thought: I liked it a whole lot, though at some point I felt like some parts could have been easily skipped.
Second thought: what about the turn of events in Enrico’s life? As a fairy tales lover, it’s crazy to say “it doesn’t seem real”, right? But hell, how do you call a thirty-something man that has the surprise of his lifetime and had no clue what was happening in his own family?
Ok, so here’s the thing. We have a pyjama designer from Australia who travels to Italy to “find herself”, but she meets Enrico Ferrara. He’s simply a sex god, smart, funny, arrogant, alpha to the bone, dominant, playful, witty and so on.
Their “meet-cute” is swoony and funny and sizzling hot. Though they make plans to see each other again, Enrico’s life gets turned upside down, but don’t worry, he pulls some strings and brings her to work for Valentino, so they’ll meet again.
There are two things I really loved in this book: this great love our main characters share (T.L Swan is a master in making you believe in soul-mates - see Joshua & Natalia’s story), plus all the amazing, off the charts sex they have and the Pantheon scene. ❤️ Talking to the Gods? Be still, my heart!
Besides these two things, I’ll have to remember how hot-headed they both were. Their arguments/fights were kinda funny.
I usually write my reviews the second I finish reading the book, but in this case, I took some hours to think about it.
First thought: I liked it a whole lot, though at some point I felt like some parts could have been easily skipped.
Second thought: what about the turn of events in Enrico’s life? As a fairy tales lover, it’s crazy to say “it doesn’t seem real”, right? But hell, how do you call a thirty-something man that has the surprise of his lifetime and had no clue what was happening in his own family?
Ok, so here’s the thing. We have a pyjama designer from Australia who travels to Italy to “find herself”, but she meets Enrico Ferrara. He’s simply a sex god, smart, funny, arrogant, alpha to the bone, dominant, playful, witty and so on.
“It’s having someone love you and all your faults, even when you forget to love yourself.” He stares at me and I smile softly. “Well, that’s obviously why I never fell in love before.” “What is?” “I don’t have any faults, and nobody could love me better than I already love myself.”
Their “meet-cute” is swoony and funny and sizzling hot. Though they make plans to see each other again, Enrico’s life gets turned upside down, but don’t worry, he pulls some strings and brings her to work for Valentino, so they’ll meet again.
There are two things I really loved in this book: this great love our main characters share (T.L Swan is a master in making you believe in soul-mates - see Joshua & Natalia’s story), plus all the amazing, off the charts sex they have and the Pantheon scene. ❤️ Talking to the Gods? Be still, my heart!
“At 11:11 on the 21st of April every year, the moon shines through the Oculus and creates a beam of light. It is said that, in that light, you speak with the gods.”
Besides these two things, I’ll have to remember how hot-headed they both were. Their arguments/fights were kinda funny.
September 9, 2021
2 'Only for the heroine' Stars ⭐⭐
Firstly , I think this is the best T. L. Swan's book I've read because of the following reasons:
The heroine, Olivia, in this is quite loveable and funny unlike all the other books of her where the heroines just giggle too much and make absolutely stupid life decisions.
The story was also very well written and intriguing to read.
Then why the hell did I not give this a 4 or 5 star...well the whole story was ruined for me because of one freaking scene. Never in my life have I been this disappointed. 🤧 This scene happens when both the hero and Olivia are in a steady relationship.
I know this isn't such a huge deal for people but it just irked me the wrong way.
Another thing which bugged me about the book is that Enrico sleeps with numerous women in their two-year long separation but when Olivia goes on a tinder date he proceeds to punch her date and call her a 'whore'. 😑😒 like excuse me?! Who the hell are you to call her that!
Time and time again I've read T. L. Swan hoping this will be better than the last one but I've been disappointed every time. I just freaking hate her heroes they are usually jerks with massive egos and not likeable at all.
"There is a thin line between self-confidence and arrogance."
Firstly , I think this is the best T. L. Swan's book I've read because of the following reasons:
The heroine, Olivia, in this is quite loveable and funny unlike all the other books of her where the heroines just giggle too much and make absolutely stupid life decisions.
The story was also very well written and intriguing to read.
Then why the hell did I not give this a 4 or 5 star...well the whole story was ruined for me because of one freaking scene. Never in my life have I been this disappointed. 🤧 This scene happens when both the hero and Olivia are in a steady relationship.
I know this isn't such a huge deal for people but it just irked me the wrong way.
Another thing which bugged me about the book is that Enrico sleeps with numerous women in their two-year long separation but when Olivia goes on a tinder date he proceeds to punch her date and call her a 'whore'. 😑😒 like excuse me?! Who the hell are you to call her that!
Time and time again I've read T. L. Swan hoping this will be better than the last one but I've been disappointed every time. I just freaking hate her heroes they are usually jerks with massive egos and not likeable at all.
"There is a thin line between self-confidence and arrogance."
September 5, 2020
AMAZING!!!
Another fantastic instalment from TL Swan.
The love story is what we can only dream of experiencing and the one liners that T produce are hilarious!
Fantastic storyline, no cliffhanger definitely a book you can enjoy time and time again like TL Swan’s back catalogue.
It’s definitely recommended . Enjoy...
Another fantastic instalment from TL Swan.
The love story is what we can only dream of experiencing and the one liners that T produce are hilarious!
Fantastic storyline, no cliffhanger definitely a book you can enjoy time and time again like TL Swan’s back catalogue.
It’s definitely recommended . Enjoy...
Shelved as 'dnf'
August 2, 2024Update: it was NOT good!!!! 😭
Life’s too short to be reading something that makes me this f@cking angry 😤
DNF @ 58%
~~~~~~~~~~
It’s gonna be a good one…..I just know it! 🤗
Life’s too short to be reading something that makes me this f@cking angry 😤
DNF @ 58%
~~~~~~~~~~
It’s gonna be a good one…..I just know it! 🤗
April 18, 2021
:::
Overall Rating :: 1 star
Series :: Standalone.
Hero/Heroine :: Enrico/Olivia
POV :: Alternating.
Cliffhanger :: Nope.
HEA ::
:::
I have, admittedly, been terribly critical of books lately. Chalk it up to my pregnancy hormones, or the fact that I have a toddler at home and I'm pregnant, but my tolerance level is fairly low. Blame should probably totally be on me, is the point. But sometimes, I truly think I'm reading something different than the hundreds of people giving a book countless five-star reviews. I just recently gave a book a five-star review, so it's not like I'm critical without mercy - I know when I read something that I connect with, and unfortunately The Italian was not that for me. I wanted to love it. I wanted to connect with the characters and go on a journey with a new-to-me author. Instead, I seemed to get a bit of a convoluted story with little character development.
I wanted to like Olivia. I did. I really love grasping on to a literary heroine, seeing my own attributes in these women. It’s what makes me enjoy a story more. But I found Olivia to be wishy-washy at best, and completely bowled over by everyone around her at worst. I didn't see any strength. Except for maybe when she was commanding Rico's men to leave their home when he was drunk. I saw it then. Briefly. I just wanted more from her. I wanted her to come into her own as this queen of Italy's underworld, or something. Even if it wasn't going to be that drastic, I just wanted something more. Instead, she was constantly playing the naive, non-Italian card. Why does my boyfriend need to carry a gun? Why is there constant surveillance and security? I don't understand the language, I don't know what's going on. Yeah, we got it. But I'm not sure how many times the word mafiosi needs to be repeated, or how many clues one would need. The writing is on the wall, my dear. And then there's this:
Him telling me that he couldn’t orgasm with another woman has calmed my insecurities.
Yeah, that does it for me every time. "I had sex with her, love, but I couldn't orgasm. You're welcome.”
And Enrico? Meh. Admittedly, I'm not really into Italian men (or mercurial men, generally). I guess, not as a general rule, just something I've noticed in the type of men I'm attracted to. I do understand the appeal, with Enrico specifically, but there was just something off to me about him. Something disingenuous. Maybe even a bit untrustworthy (). I'm not sure if it was his character specifically or how his character was written. I don't know. I just didn't get him.
For me, character development is a huge part of why I enjoy a book. It's what keeps me engaged. I know I'm not the minority there. So, these issues I had, coupled with repetitive dialogue and strange consistency issues, this just wasn't the book for me.
Overall Rating :: 1 star
Series :: Standalone.
Hero/Heroine :: Enrico/Olivia
POV :: Alternating.
Cliffhanger :: Nope.
HEA ::
:::
I have, admittedly, been terribly critical of books lately. Chalk it up to my pregnancy hormones, or the fact that I have a toddler at home and I'm pregnant, but my tolerance level is fairly low. Blame should probably totally be on me, is the point. But sometimes, I truly think I'm reading something different than the hundreds of people giving a book countless five-star reviews. I just recently gave a book a five-star review, so it's not like I'm critical without mercy - I know when I read something that I connect with, and unfortunately The Italian was not that for me. I wanted to love it. I wanted to connect with the characters and go on a journey with a new-to-me author. Instead, I seemed to get a bit of a convoluted story with little character development.
I wanted to like Olivia. I did. I really love grasping on to a literary heroine, seeing my own attributes in these women. It’s what makes me enjoy a story more. But I found Olivia to be wishy-washy at best, and completely bowled over by everyone around her at worst. I didn't see any strength. Except for maybe when she was commanding Rico's men to leave their home when he was drunk. I saw it then. Briefly. I just wanted more from her. I wanted her to come into her own as this queen of Italy's underworld, or something. Even if it wasn't going to be that drastic, I just wanted something more. Instead, she was constantly playing the naive, non-Italian card. Why does my boyfriend need to carry a gun? Why is there constant surveillance and security? I don't understand the language, I don't know what's going on. Yeah, we got it. But I'm not sure how many times the word mafiosi needs to be repeated, or how many clues one would need. The writing is on the wall, my dear. And then there's this:
Him telling me that he couldn’t orgasm with another woman has calmed my insecurities.
Yeah, that does it for me every time. "I had sex with her, love, but I couldn't orgasm. You're welcome.”
And Enrico? Meh. Admittedly, I'm not really into Italian men (or mercurial men, generally). I guess, not as a general rule, just something I've noticed in the type of men I'm attracted to. I do understand the appeal, with Enrico specifically, but there was just something off to me about him. Something disingenuous. Maybe even a bit untrustworthy (). I'm not sure if it was his character specifically or how his character was written. I don't know. I just didn't get him.
For me, character development is a huge part of why I enjoy a book. It's what keeps me engaged. I know I'm not the minority there. So, these issues I had, coupled with repetitive dialogue and strange consistency issues, this just wasn't the book for me.
July 30, 2020
I have so many feelings about this book.
I honestly don't write very many reviews for Kindle books. They are usually fast and quick and then I move on. Almost like a one night stand. But Olivia and Enrico have got a hold on my heart. What starts as a sexy weekend together in Rome, quickly becomes a fiasco, when Enrico's father and grandfather die in a purposeful car crash, leaving him the head of a crime family he had tried to run from.
His plans of a love-at-first-sight romance with Olivia have to be put on hold and he ends things in the least elegant way I have ever heard. Leaving Olivia to think that she dodged a bullet and she returns home to Australia from her Holiday determined to forget him.
When they are drawn back together, as in Enrico makes sure she comes back to Rome, neither has been able to get the other out of their skin. But time has changed Enrico, the free loving Police Officer is now the King of Italy, with danger and bodyguards following every step.
*********
I just loved this book. I wasn't expecting it to make me feel. They passion, the danger, the situations, their fights, and the sex are freaking amazing. But there was so much more to this than smut, and that is why I had to write a review.
Enrico made my soul ache for the situation he is in. He wants to be a good man, he wants to marry a woman he loves. He doesn't want to run brothels or carry on the family line. But you really FEEL his conflict. His want for something pure and good in Olivia. He can't just throw up his hands and quit. Not only would his enemies still chase him, but hundreds of people rely on the life he provides for them. It was a very complex story and I was so drawn in.
There are still some of the normal troupes to this. He is a bit controlling, very bossy, and so many times Olivia ignores obvious warnings for safety to do whatever she wants. But they challenge each other. I love that Enrico isn't always wrong and having to grovel for her forgiveness. That always annoys me when the woman never tries to understand.
This story was beautiful. I want to read it again. And I think you should give it a try too. There is so much here besides sexy times.
5/5 stars
I honestly don't write very many reviews for Kindle books. They are usually fast and quick and then I move on. Almost like a one night stand. But Olivia and Enrico have got a hold on my heart. What starts as a sexy weekend together in Rome, quickly becomes a fiasco, when Enrico's father and grandfather die in a purposeful car crash, leaving him the head of a crime family he had tried to run from.
His plans of a love-at-first-sight romance with Olivia have to be put on hold and he ends things in the least elegant way I have ever heard. Leaving Olivia to think that she dodged a bullet and she returns home to Australia from her Holiday determined to forget him.
When they are drawn back together, as in Enrico makes sure she comes back to Rome, neither has been able to get the other out of their skin. But time has changed Enrico, the free loving Police Officer is now the King of Italy, with danger and bodyguards following every step.
*********
I just loved this book. I wasn't expecting it to make me feel. They passion, the danger, the situations, their fights, and the sex are freaking amazing. But there was so much more to this than smut, and that is why I had to write a review.
Enrico made my soul ache for the situation he is in. He wants to be a good man, he wants to marry a woman he loves. He doesn't want to run brothels or carry on the family line. But you really FEEL his conflict. His want for something pure and good in Olivia. He can't just throw up his hands and quit. Not only would his enemies still chase him, but hundreds of people rely on the life he provides for them. It was a very complex story and I was so drawn in.
There are still some of the normal troupes to this. He is a bit controlling, very bossy, and so many times Olivia ignores obvious warnings for safety to do whatever she wants. But they challenge each other. I love that Enrico isn't always wrong and having to grovel for her forgiveness. That always annoys me when the woman never tries to understand.
This story was beautiful. I want to read it again. And I think you should give it a try too. There is so much here besides sexy times.
5/5 stars
August 1, 2020
The end ruined this book. So much shit was just glossed over, rushed at the end, or dropped into fucking nowhere. (THAT’S when it was in any way believable FFS) I’m sure it’ll be dealt with in following books. But the reality. This H left his empire to be run by a 19 yo half brother who knew nothing about his mafiosi family. The H basically forced the life he hated in nearly identical circumstances to a teenager. What a cunt.
I felt like the author couldn’t wrap this shit up and decided to blow the whole thing up in last 10%. What. A. Cop. Out. If you can’t write your way out of a crime/suspense plot, don’t use one.
I’m sure we’ll find out Lorenzo and the H’s mother are the parents of the H’s sister so the H’s half-brother, who is the child of the H’s father and his lifelong mistress, can marry the H’s sister since the two quasi-siblings won’t actually share blood.
Mother fucking spare me.
And I will never believe his love for the h after the last scene between the OW before she’s killed and after he avenged her death. Fuck off with that. I love OW drama, but I have to believe my H and I don’t..not after reading it in his POV. He was so wonderful in the beginning and such a letdown at the end.
I fucking love this author.
What the actual fuck happened here???
I felt like the author couldn’t wrap this shit up and decided to blow the whole thing up in last 10%. What. A. Cop. Out. If you can’t write your way out of a crime/suspense plot, don’t use one.
I’m sure we’ll find out Lorenzo and the H’s mother are the parents of the H’s sister so the H’s half-brother, who is the child of the H’s father and his lifelong mistress, can marry the H’s sister since the two quasi-siblings won’t actually share blood.
Mother fucking spare me.
And I will never believe his love for the h after the last scene between the OW before she’s killed and after he avenged her death. Fuck off with that. I love OW drama, but I have to believe my H and I don’t..not after reading it in his POV. He was so wonderful in the beginning and such a letdown at the end.
I fucking love this author.
What the actual fuck happened here???
November 6, 2023
Bueno, diría que 2,5* para un aprobado raspado.
Las historias de mafia me gustan, pero en este caso me ha parecido muy simplona, y es que ni le pegaba a Enrico ser un Don.
Los protagonistas no me han terminado de convencer, ella muy insulsa que ni tiene voz ni voto y él un mandón.
Y el final de risa ...
Me encantan las historias de ésta mujer, pero ésta, en este caso, se me ha quedado muy floja y rebuscada.
Las historias de mafia me gustan, pero en este caso me ha parecido muy simplona, y es que ni le pegaba a Enrico ser un Don.
Los protagonistas no me han terminado de convencer, ella muy insulsa que ni tiene voz ni voto y él un mandón.
Y el final de risa ...
Me encantan las historias de ésta mujer, pero ésta, en este caso, se me ha quedado muy floja y rebuscada.
January 5, 2023
Was it entertaining? ehh
Did it deliver? 🙃🙃🙃
This book seriously has SO MUCH potential and the path the author choose to take was just not it.
The heroine was such a pushover and would literally break up with the dude I swear like every other flipping chapter. I was DONE. One second she was fine with following his every order the next she wasn't and she'd want to do her own thing. WOMAN MAKE UP YOUR MIND.
Don't even get me started on the hero. He was a piece of shit. ‼️ TW ‼️ THERE IS OTHER WOMAN DRAMA ‼️
When Enrico literally was thinking about cheating on his pregnant wife when the bitch came to the office, I almost chucked my phone across the room. He literally got aroused by the sound of her bracelets?!! W.T.F. Like you said you couldn't come without thinking of Olivia, yet you were ready to fuck your side piece on your office desk?? Sir get the fuck out of here. AND WHEN SHE DIED and he WAS UPSET??!! HELL NO.
I'm giving it two stars because 1) I'm being nice, 2) there were some cute moments, and 3) the initial hookup/Rome weekend had me swoooooooning. THEY HAD POTENTIAL but it was THROWN out the freaking window.
Why does this author always have other women drama in the books? NOBODY LIKES IT
Did it deliver? 🙃🙃🙃
This book seriously has SO MUCH potential and the path the author choose to take was just not it.
The heroine was such a pushover and would literally break up with the dude I swear like every other flipping chapter. I was DONE. One second she was fine with following his every order the next she wasn't and she'd want to do her own thing. WOMAN MAKE UP YOUR MIND.
Don't even get me started on the hero. He was a piece of shit. ‼️ TW ‼️ THERE IS OTHER WOMAN DRAMA ‼️
When Enrico literally was thinking about cheating on his pregnant wife when the bitch came to the office, I almost chucked my phone across the room. He literally got aroused by the sound of her bracelets?!! W.T.F. Like you said you couldn't come without thinking of Olivia, yet you were ready to fuck your side piece on your office desk?? Sir get the fuck out of here. AND WHEN SHE DIED and he WAS UPSET??!! HELL NO.
I'm giving it two stars because 1) I'm being nice, 2) there were some cute moments, and 3) the initial hookup/Rome weekend had me swoooooooning. THEY HAD POTENTIAL but it was THROWN out the freaking window.
Why does this author always have other women drama in the books? NOBODY LIKES IT
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June 25, 2023
Nice cover model. That's the best I can say about this book.
I just cannot connect with this author's writing style.
The drama was OTT, the pacing was off and the story felr dragged and I felt no connection to the characters. Plus, I hate the insta-love in this book.
Nice premise, too bad for the execution.
I just cannot connect with this author's writing style.
The drama was OTT, the pacing was off and the story felr dragged and I felt no connection to the characters. Plus, I hate the insta-love in this book.
Nice premise, too bad for the execution.
April 28, 2020
This book is shockingly bad and the hero an ass. So many things did not make sense, apparently the hero really loves the heroine, really? It was a bit obvious he is a man whore in the separation between him and the heroine. We see he has a regular ow in the separation, Sophia, who he fucks, but can never orgasm with? He repeats she means nothing to him etc. But towards the end of the book there is a big scene with her coming onto him. Her bangles bang together and he is suddenly aroused as it reminds him of having sex with her? His reaction was visceral, yet then he was banging her he never even orgasmed? Makes no sense to me how he was so turned on yet he never really enjoyed being with her and was always left feeling empty after their encounters? He loves Olivia so much, but seems tempted to have the ow as his Mistress? The only reason he turns her down seems to be because he remembers Olivia being pregnant. Why was he so tempted when he has supposedly wanted Olivia for so long, and now finally has her? Also, we are told he did not love Sophia etc, but when she dies his reaction is extreme, he swore revenge, reflected on her beauty, and how in another life she might have made him happy? What the hell? Weird seeing as he stated their ‘relationship’ had no romantic feelings involved. The whole drama with his fathers mistress, and Olivia saying to respect her etc was also ridiculous, everyone had rose tinted glasses with situations, but the fact Enrico (hero) thought his parents were so in love, really made no sense when apparently the father never loved his wife and was always pining for another woman? Maybe I was meant to feel sympathy etc, but it just seemed all so sordid and pathetic. Also how did Enrico never catch his father and mistress together when he went to Lake Como? The author also added, just to make sure no one felt sorry for the betrayed wife, that the reader is told Enrico’s mother married only for money, and did not care his father had a mistress. So why did she care when his father went to Lake Como to be with the ow then? Does not add up. If this was not all enough, it was riddled with Italian stereotypes, avoid!
Merged review:
This book is shockingly bad and the hero an ass. So many things did not make sense, apparently the hero really loves the heroine, really? It was a bit obvious he is a man whore in the separation between him and the heroine. We see he has a regular ow in the separation, Sophia, who he fucks, but can never orgasm with? He repeats she means nothing to him etc. But towards the end of the book there is a big scene with her coming onto him. Her bangles bang together and he is suddenly aroused as it reminds him of having sex with her? His reaction was visceral, yet then he was banging her he never even orgasmed? Makes no sense to me how he was so turned on yet he never really enjoyed being with her and was always left feeling empty after their encounters? He loves Olivia so much, but seems tempted to have the ow as his Mistress? The only reason he turns her down seems to be because he remembers Olivia being pregnant. Why was he so tempted when he has supposedly wanted Olivia for so long, and now finally has her? Also, we are told he did not love Sophia etc, but when she dies his reaction is extreme, he swore revenge, reflected on her beauty, and how in another life she might have made him happy? What the hell? Weird seeing as he stated their ‘relationship’ had no romantic feelings involved. The whole drama with his fathers mistress, and Olivia saying to respect her etc was also ridiculous, everyone had rose tinted glasses with situations, but the fact Enrico (hero) thought his parents were so in love, really made no sense when apparently the father never loved his wife and was always pining for another woman? Maybe I was meant to feel sympathy etc, but it just seemed all so sordid and pathetic. Also how did Enrico never catch his father and mistress together when he went to Lake Como? The author also added, just to make sure no one felt sorry for the betrayed wife, that the reader is told Enrico’s mother married only for money, and did not care his father had a mistress. So why did she care when his father went to Lake Como to be with the ow then? Does not add up. If this was not all enough, it was riddled with Italian stereotypes, avoid!
Merged review:
This book is shockingly bad and the hero an ass. So many things did not make sense, apparently the hero really loves the heroine, really? It was a bit obvious he is a man whore in the separation between him and the heroine. We see he has a regular ow in the separation, Sophia, who he fucks, but can never orgasm with? He repeats she means nothing to him etc. But towards the end of the book there is a big scene with her coming onto him. Her bangles bang together and he is suddenly aroused as it reminds him of having sex with her? His reaction was visceral, yet then he was banging her he never even orgasmed? Makes no sense to me how he was so turned on yet he never really enjoyed being with her and was always left feeling empty after their encounters? He loves Olivia so much, but seems tempted to have the ow as his Mistress? The only reason he turns her down seems to be because he remembers Olivia being pregnant. Why was he so tempted when he has supposedly wanted Olivia for so long, and now finally has her? Also, we are told he did not love Sophia etc, but when she dies his reaction is extreme, he swore revenge, reflected on her beauty, and how in another life she might have made him happy? What the hell? Weird seeing as he stated their ‘relationship’ had no romantic feelings involved. The whole drama with his fathers mistress, and Olivia saying to respect her etc was also ridiculous, everyone had rose tinted glasses with situations, but the fact Enrico (hero) thought his parents were so in love, really made no sense when apparently the father never loved his wife and was always pining for another woman? Maybe I was meant to feel sympathy etc, but it just seemed all so sordid and pathetic. Also how did Enrico never catch his father and mistress together when he went to Lake Como? The author also added, just to make sure no one felt sorry for the betrayed wife, that the reader is told Enrico’s mother married only for money, and did not care his father had a mistress. So why did she care when his father went to Lake Como to be with the ow then? Does not add up. If this was not all enough, it was riddled with Italian stereotypes, avoid!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 28, 2020
Warning!!!!
This book will consume not only your heart but your mind and soul will be forever lost to Enrico!!
This was a rollercoaster ride like no other, TL Swan takes us on a frantic and momentous journey that although scary at times you won’t ever want to get off!
Olivia and Enrico’s story leads us down the path of no return, there’s love, heartbreak and drama like no book will come close too! She doesn’t just write a story she invades our mind with her words, pollutes it with her amazing characters and then finishes it off by ripping our hearts out while there still beating gives it a good stomp and then puts it back in place never to be the same again!
Well done Tee you killed this book and my soul all in one sitting! But glad to say by The End I was in a happy place like one I’ve never experienced before! You rock my friend!
This book will consume not only your heart but your mind and soul will be forever lost to Enrico!!
This was a rollercoaster ride like no other, TL Swan takes us on a frantic and momentous journey that although scary at times you won’t ever want to get off!
Olivia and Enrico’s story leads us down the path of no return, there’s love, heartbreak and drama like no book will come close too! She doesn’t just write a story she invades our mind with her words, pollutes it with her amazing characters and then finishes it off by ripping our hearts out while there still beating gives it a good stomp and then puts it back in place never to be the same again!
Well done Tee you killed this book and my soul all in one sitting! But glad to say by The End I was in a happy place like one I’ve never experienced before! You rock my friend!
February 28, 2023
Ale sie rozczarowałam.
Baaaardzo lubię książki od tej autorki, a jednak tu miałam duże meh czytając to.
Była bardzo schematyczna, długa i nudna.
Smut wcale nie był dobry i było go za dużo. Ciagle w sumie był taki sam, a ile można czytać to samo w kółko. Mi zazwyczaj nie przeszkadza dużo fragmentów 18+, a tu miałam takie „Jezu znowu”?
Przez dużą część książki nic sie nie dzieje, a jak zaczyna się akcja to po kilku stronach znowu wracamy do nudy.
Główna bohaterka tak okropnie mnie irytowała… Naiwna max, dawała sobą pomiatać i manipulować.
Głowy bohater w dupie miał zazwyczaj to co ona do niego mówiła.
Było kilka fajnych fragmentów, ale jako że to jest naprawdę długa książka to zginęły w tej masie niczego.
Zdecydowanie wole od autorki książki o braciach Miles, może tematy mafijne po prostu nie są dobrym pomysłem dla tej autorki.
Baaaardzo lubię książki od tej autorki, a jednak tu miałam duże meh czytając to.
Była bardzo schematyczna, długa i nudna.
Smut wcale nie był dobry i było go za dużo. Ciagle w sumie był taki sam, a ile można czytać to samo w kółko. Mi zazwyczaj nie przeszkadza dużo fragmentów 18+, a tu miałam takie „Jezu znowu”?
Przez dużą część książki nic sie nie dzieje, a jak zaczyna się akcja to po kilku stronach znowu wracamy do nudy.
Główna bohaterka tak okropnie mnie irytowała… Naiwna max, dawała sobą pomiatać i manipulować.
Głowy bohater w dupie miał zazwyczaj to co ona do niego mówiła.
Było kilka fajnych fragmentów, ale jako że to jest naprawdę długa książka to zginęły w tej masie niczego.
Zdecydowanie wole od autorki książki o braciach Miles, może tematy mafijne po prostu nie są dobrym pomysłem dla tej autorki.
Read
June 10, 2022DNF 30%
Am început cartea aceasta pentru că văzusem o replică mișto într-un tik tok, pentru că mi-a plăcut super mult o altă serie a autoarei (Miles High Club) și pentru că e cu un italian (iubesc Italia🤣).
Ngl, cartea luase o întorsătură la care eu nu m-am așteptat, cu un trope care îmi place mult, DAR NU ȘTIU, ceva nu a fost să fie, mă dispera personajul principal masculin, era mult prea alfa male îngâmfat, genul “wow, arăt bine și sunt irezistibil, tu ești femeie și faci ce zic eu pentru că îți place cum arăt”.🤨🤨🤨🤨🤨🤨
Nu mai simțeam nicio chimie între personaje.
Poate după devenea mai ok. But I guess we’ll never know.🤷🏽♀️🤷🏽♀️🤷🏽♀️🤷🏽♀️🤷🏽♀️🤷🏽♀️
Am prea multe cărți pe care vreau să le citesc și prea puțin timp pentru a mai pierde cu orice romance cu tipi sexy mediocrii.
Am început cartea aceasta pentru că văzusem o replică mișto într-un tik tok, pentru că mi-a plăcut super mult o altă serie a autoarei (Miles High Club) și pentru că e cu un italian (iubesc Italia🤣).
Ngl, cartea luase o întorsătură la care eu nu m-am așteptat, cu un trope care îmi place mult, DAR NU ȘTIU, ceva nu a fost să fie, mă dispera personajul principal masculin, era mult prea alfa male îngâmfat, genul “wow, arăt bine și sunt irezistibil, tu ești femeie și faci ce zic eu pentru că îți place cum arăt”.🤨🤨🤨🤨🤨🤨
Nu mai simțeam nicio chimie între personaje.
Poate după devenea mai ok. But I guess we’ll never know.🤷🏽♀️🤷🏽♀️🤷🏽♀️🤷🏽♀️🤷🏽♀️🤷🏽♀️
Am prea multe cărți pe care vreau să le citesc și prea puțin timp pentru a mai pierde cu orice romance cu tipi sexy mediocrii.
August 24, 2021
Cahildim kitabın blurbüne kandım
Kapağa aldandım boşuna yandım
Kitabın iyi olan iki unsuruna şöyle bir küçük şarkı sözüyle hakkını vermek istedim. Kitabın tanıtım yazısı okuyanı hype trenine bindiriyor. Kapaktaki adam da çok güzel. Ama başka iyi bir şey yok maalesef. Öyle karşılanmamış yüksek beklenti etkisiyle, bir öfke ile bu yorumu yazdığım sanılmasın lütfen. Kurgu, karakterler ve anlatım o kadar okuyucuya geçmiyor ki bırakın pozitif bir etki uyandırmayı; sinir, öfke gibi negatif duyguları bile ateşleyemiyor. Evet, bir de kitap 550 sayfa ☹
Arka kapak açık. Hemen özetliyorum. Kızımız Olivia Reynolds (27) yaşında kafa dağıtmak ve hayatını sorgulamak amacıyla 5 haftalık bir İtalya tatiline çıkıyor. Aslen Avustralyalı, sarışın, aklı bir karış havada, moda tasarımcısı olmak isteyen bir kadın karakter. Tatilinin ikinci haftasında bir bar/restoranda full İtalyanca menüyü incelerken bardaki mega yakışıklı, esmer kıvırcığımız Enrico Ferrara ile tanışıyor. Adam kıza menüyü translate ederken bir yandan flört başlıyor. Enrico polis. Enrico playboy. Enrico tam bir yılan gibi kızı tavlıyor. Pornstar ismine benzeyen isminin hakkını veren Enrico kıza bir seks sunuyor ki kız aklını yitiriyor. Hafta sonunu beraber geçiyorlar ve kızımız önceden planladığı üzere arkadaşıyla buluşmak için 2 haftalığına İtalyanın bir başka bölgesine uçuyor. Telefon numaraları veriliyor ve tatil dönüşü 2 hafta sonra görüşürüz diyerek ayrılıyorlar.
Kızı havaalanına bırakan Enrico aynı gün babasının ve dedesinin trafik kazasında öldüğünü öğreniyor. Hastaneye gidiyor ve öğreniyor ki babası ve dedesi aslında mafyaymış. 30 küsür yaşında Enrico'nun dünyadan haberi yok ve fedailer çat diye gelip elini öpüyorlar. Sabah polis olan adam akşama Capo olup çıkıyor. Yeni kariyerine adapte olmaya çalışırken Olivia ile de iletişimi koparıyor. Olivia ise bir ara, iki mesaj derken Enrico’dan ses çıkmayınca demek her şey tek gecelikmiş diyerek kırık kalbini avutmaya çalışıyor. Memleketine geri dönmek üzere havaalanındayken çantasında uyuşturucu bulunuyor (Bu uyuşturucunun kim tarafından neden konulduğu asla aydınlatılmıyor). Polisler bunu alıp karakola götürünce işte orada yeni Capo Enrico’yu görüyor. Olm sen Capo’sun napıyorsun orada falan derken kıza çok yüz vermeden, şirket avukatlarından birini ayarlayıp kızı kurtarıyor ama ülkesine şutluyorlar Olivia’yı.
2 sene geçiyor. Olivia ünlü bir markadan iş teklifi alıyor. Gel Milano’da işe başla diyorlar (evet işin arkasında Rico var, kızı unutamadığı için ayağına getirtiyor paşam). Olivia İtalya’da ikinci perdeyi açıyor. Yeni iş bulunca aşksız da kalmayalım diyerek Tinder’dan hayırlı bir date buluyor. Yeni adamla buluştuğu restoranda ise tesadüfe bakın arka masada bizim Rico var. Bir rezillik bir alamet, kızın Tinder date’i restorandan dayak yiyerek ayrılıyor. Çiftimiz kavga dövüş tekrar bir araya geliyor.
Ya adam o kadar sene babasının mafya lideri olduğunu nasıl bilmez. Hadi çocuk avel, olm İtalyan polisi, miti, ajanı falan da mı aptal bu adamı polis yapmışsınız. Bu detaylara hiç dikkat edilmemiş. Hadi buraları geçiyorum, ben capoyum, ben İtalyanım, benim bir yabancıyla evlenmeme izin verilmez diye tripleniyor Enrico. Kıza diyor ki gel sana ev açam, çalışmana da gerek yok, öz hakiki İtalyanla evlenmek zorundayım ama sen benim ikinci kadınım, ruh eşim ol. Olivia deliriyor, annesini başka bir kadın için terk eden babasını anlattıktan 5 dakika sonra Rico’dan böyle bir teklif gelmesini yadırgıyor haliyle sjgfjsh Kızımız biraz omurgalı davranıp siktiri çekiyor Rico’ya. Ayrılık draması yaşarken Rico düşünüyor taşınıyor, kıza tamam başka kadın yok, sen İtalyanca öğren bir de Katolik ol yeterli diye bir teklif götürüyor (Ulan mal bu kadar dramayı ne diye yaptın böyle kolay madem deyip kalıyorsunuz).
Bir diğer dramaya geliyorum, 30 yıldan fazla Rico’nun babasının mafya olduğundan gram şüphelenmeyen İtalyan polisi bir anda uyanıyor ve Rico’nun peşine düşüyor. Adamın ipini açığa çıkarmak için de Olivia’yı buluyorlar. Kız Avustralyalı diye Avustralyadan özel dedektif geliyor ve kıza arkadaş olarak yaklaşıp ağzından laf almaya, delil toplamaya çalışıyor. Bu girişimden de bir nane çıkmıyor ve gelen dedektif öyle gelip iki görünüp Enrico tarafından ajanlığı anlaşılıyor, bi neticeye varmadan defolup gidiyor kitabın sonunda.
Drama bitti mi sandın, bitmez! Capo olur olmaz uyuşturucudan el etek çeken Enrico’nun bir tane düşmanı çıkıyor. Lombardi diye bir adam. Yüzünü falan kimse bilmiyor ama adam ufak ufak tehdit ediyor Rico’yu. Rico paranoya yapıyor, Olivia da hamile kalıyor falan bu kadar dramanın arasında. Kızı alıp götürüyor satın aldığı bir adaya. Lombardi çat diye geliyor bunların yanına, Rico da çat diye öldürüyor adamı. Ulan böyle basit bitecekti madem koca kitap neyin gerilimini yarattın o zaman diye sorguluyorsun. Cevap yok.
Bunların yanında bir de Enrico’nun ölen babasının metresi varmış. Rico’nun Olivia’ya yaptığı iki kadınlı hayatı meğer Baba Ferrara yaşamış. İngiliz bir hanımdan bir de çocuk (Guliano) yapmış ve vasiyet olarak Rico’ya senden sonra Capo’luk onundur demiş mektubunda. Bu 19 yaşındaki Guliano da kenarda köşede Rico’nun bacısı Francesca ile manitalık yapıyor. Rico hariç kimse bilmiyor kardeş olduklarını, bir küçük yasak aşk teması da dönüyor yani. Sonunu da bilmiyoruz bu dramanın, yazar bunlara da ayrı kitap falan yapıyor.
Bakın daha Enrico’nun genelevlerinin yöneticisi Sophia’nın yarattığı kıskançlık dramalarından bahsetmedim. Daha evde koruma olarak duran Sergio’nun Olivia’ya sapıkça yaklaşımından ve Rico’nun ardından çevirdiği işlerden bahsetmedim.
Anlayın işte 550 sayfa boyunca bir sürü şey okudum ama hiçbir drama bir yere bağlanmadı. Hiçbiri ana plota hiçbir katkıda bulunmadı. Aralarda sevişildi, gereksiz paranoyalar yapıldı, toksikleşildi vs. Yazarın diğer kitapları da oldukça uzun sayfalara sahip. Bir daha okumam diye düşünüyorum. Her İtalyan’ım var diyene koşmayı bırakmam lazım. Bana yazık.
Kapağa aldandım boşuna yandım
Kitabın iyi olan iki unsuruna şöyle bir küçük şarkı sözüyle hakkını vermek istedim. Kitabın tanıtım yazısı okuyanı hype trenine bindiriyor. Kapaktaki adam da çok güzel. Ama başka iyi bir şey yok maalesef. Öyle karşılanmamış yüksek beklenti etkisiyle, bir öfke ile bu yorumu yazdığım sanılmasın lütfen. Kurgu, karakterler ve anlatım o kadar okuyucuya geçmiyor ki bırakın pozitif bir etki uyandırmayı; sinir, öfke gibi negatif duyguları bile ateşleyemiyor. Evet, bir de kitap 550 sayfa ☹
Arka kapak açık. Hemen özetliyorum. Kızımız Olivia Reynolds (27) yaşında kafa dağıtmak ve hayatını sorgulamak amacıyla 5 haftalık bir İtalya tatiline çıkıyor. Aslen Avustralyalı, sarışın, aklı bir karış havada, moda tasarımcısı olmak isteyen bir kadın karakter. Tatilinin ikinci haftasında bir bar/restoranda full İtalyanca menüyü incelerken bardaki mega yakışıklı, esmer kıvırcığımız Enrico Ferrara ile tanışıyor. Adam kıza menüyü translate ederken bir yandan flört başlıyor. Enrico polis. Enrico playboy. Enrico tam bir yılan gibi kızı tavlıyor. Pornstar ismine benzeyen isminin hakkını veren Enrico kıza bir seks sunuyor ki kız aklını yitiriyor. Hafta sonunu beraber geçiyorlar ve kızımız önceden planladığı üzere arkadaşıyla buluşmak için 2 haftalığına İtalyanın bir başka bölgesine uçuyor. Telefon numaraları veriliyor ve tatil dönüşü 2 hafta sonra görüşürüz diyerek ayrılıyorlar.
Kızı havaalanına bırakan Enrico aynı gün babasının ve dedesinin trafik kazasında öldüğünü öğreniyor. Hastaneye gidiyor ve öğreniyor ki babası ve dedesi aslında mafyaymış. 30 küsür yaşında Enrico'nun dünyadan haberi yok ve fedailer çat diye gelip elini öpüyorlar. Sabah polis olan adam akşama Capo olup çıkıyor. Yeni kariyerine adapte olmaya çalışırken Olivia ile de iletişimi koparıyor. Olivia ise bir ara, iki mesaj derken Enrico’dan ses çıkmayınca demek her şey tek gecelikmiş diyerek kırık kalbini avutmaya çalışıyor. Memleketine geri dönmek üzere havaalanındayken çantasında uyuşturucu bulunuyor (Bu uyuşturucunun kim tarafından neden konulduğu asla aydınlatılmıyor). Polisler bunu alıp karakola götürünce işte orada yeni Capo Enrico’yu görüyor. Olm sen Capo’sun napıyorsun orada falan derken kıza çok yüz vermeden, şirket avukatlarından birini ayarlayıp kızı kurtarıyor ama ülkesine şutluyorlar Olivia’yı.
2 sene geçiyor. Olivia ünlü bir markadan iş teklifi alıyor. Gel Milano’da işe başla diyorlar (evet işin arkasında Rico var, kızı unutamadığı için ayağına getirtiyor paşam). Olivia İtalya’da ikinci perdeyi açıyor. Yeni iş bulunca aşksız da kalmayalım diyerek Tinder’dan hayırlı bir date buluyor. Yeni adamla buluştuğu restoranda ise tesadüfe bakın arka masada bizim Rico var. Bir rezillik bir alamet, kızın Tinder date’i restorandan dayak yiyerek ayrılıyor. Çiftimiz kavga dövüş tekrar bir araya geliyor.
Ya adam o kadar sene babasının mafya lideri olduğunu nasıl bilmez. Hadi çocuk avel, olm İtalyan polisi, miti, ajanı falan da mı aptal bu adamı polis yapmışsınız. Bu detaylara hiç dikkat edilmemiş. Hadi buraları geçiyorum, ben capoyum, ben İtalyanım, benim bir yabancıyla evlenmeme izin verilmez diye tripleniyor Enrico. Kıza diyor ki gel sana ev açam, çalışmana da gerek yok, öz hakiki İtalyanla evlenmek zorundayım ama sen benim ikinci kadınım, ruh eşim ol. Olivia deliriyor, annesini başka bir kadın için terk eden babasını anlattıktan 5 dakika sonra Rico’dan böyle bir teklif gelmesini yadırgıyor haliyle sjgfjsh Kızımız biraz omurgalı davranıp siktiri çekiyor Rico’ya. Ayrılık draması yaşarken Rico düşünüyor taşınıyor, kıza tamam başka kadın yok, sen İtalyanca öğren bir de Katolik ol yeterli diye bir teklif götürüyor (Ulan mal bu kadar dramayı ne diye yaptın böyle kolay madem deyip kalıyorsunuz).
Bir diğer dramaya geliyorum, 30 yıldan fazla Rico’nun babasının mafya olduğundan gram şüphelenmeyen İtalyan polisi bir anda uyanıyor ve Rico’nun peşine düşüyor. Adamın ipini açığa çıkarmak için de Olivia’yı buluyorlar. Kız Avustralyalı diye Avustralyadan özel dedektif geliyor ve kıza arkadaş olarak yaklaşıp ağzından laf almaya, delil toplamaya çalışıyor. Bu girişimden de bir nane çıkmıyor ve gelen dedektif öyle gelip iki görünüp Enrico tarafından ajanlığı anlaşılıyor, bi neticeye varmadan defolup gidiyor kitabın sonunda.
Drama bitti mi sandın, bitmez! Capo olur olmaz uyuşturucudan el etek çeken Enrico’nun bir tane düşmanı çıkıyor. Lombardi diye bir adam. Yüzünü falan kimse bilmiyor ama adam ufak ufak tehdit ediyor Rico’yu. Rico paranoya yapıyor, Olivia da hamile kalıyor falan bu kadar dramanın arasında. Kızı alıp götürüyor satın aldığı bir adaya. Lombardi çat diye geliyor bunların yanına, Rico da çat diye öldürüyor adamı. Ulan böyle basit bitecekti madem koca kitap neyin gerilimini yarattın o zaman diye sorguluyorsun. Cevap yok.
Bunların yanında bir de Enrico’nun ölen babasının metresi varmış. Rico’nun Olivia’ya yaptığı iki kadınlı hayatı meğer Baba Ferrara yaşamış. İngiliz bir hanımdan bir de çocuk (Guliano) yapmış ve vasiyet olarak Rico’ya senden sonra Capo’luk onundur demiş mektubunda. Bu 19 yaşındaki Guliano da kenarda köşede Rico’nun bacısı Francesca ile manitalık yapıyor. Rico hariç kimse bilmiyor kardeş olduklarını, bir küçük yasak aşk teması da dönüyor yani. Sonunu da bilmiyoruz bu dramanın, yazar bunlara da ayrı kitap falan yapıyor.
Bakın daha Enrico’nun genelevlerinin yöneticisi Sophia’nın yarattığı kıskançlık dramalarından bahsetmedim. Daha evde koruma olarak duran Sergio’nun Olivia’ya sapıkça yaklaşımından ve Rico’nun ardından çevirdiği işlerden bahsetmedim.
Anlayın işte 550 sayfa boyunca bir sürü şey okudum ama hiçbir drama bir yere bağlanmadı. Hiçbiri ana plota hiçbir katkıda bulunmadı. Aralarda sevişildi, gereksiz paranoyalar yapıldı, toksikleşildi vs. Yazarın diğer kitapları da oldukça uzun sayfalara sahip. Bir daha okumam diye düşünüyorum. Her İtalyan’ım var diyene koşmayı bırakmam lazım. Bana yazık.
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