Memory- The faculty by which the mind stores and remembers information.
The crazy thing about memories though, is that they can be good or bad. In Ezio’s case, they’re the fucking nightmares that have him popping pills to suppress them. His memories hang on to him like a loose thread, and no matter how hard his people try to snag it off, it’s no use.
In this sequel, Jisei finds herself knocking on death’s door. Just when her and Ezio choose to stop toying with one another’s feelings, she pops the very pill that he’d been using to cope. Except it wasn’t a Tylenol. Nor was it Ezio’s Percocet.
With Jisei out of commission, Don is on a rampage to avenge his sister. Every promise he made, truce he called, and deal he connected, Don wants to renege on it all. The Cuppacio and Rinaldi alliance is no more. Don is ready for war, and wants Ezio on the front line. But things may not be that simple.
Everyone has a job to do, including The Don, and his job may require him to stand down.
I had high hopes for this part two forreal, now overall it was a well written story and came to a decent ending that I found acceptable. Now here’s where I had to take some stars off, Jisei was ANNOYING this entire book and she made this a book I almost DNF’d. Now I’m not letting Ezio lil pill popping self off the hook but let’s get into it. While I felt sorry for Jisei cus what she endured by empathy and sympathy begin to end with how she was carrying on for most of the book. You hate junkies and you know one when you see one but ain’t see it in him? The author constantly described his eyes and movements and he was always sluggish and slow never really on point especially for a “MOB” man like COME ON NOW GIRL. Jisei was so caught up on his good looks and his demeanor that she ain’t really get to know that man. Like yes he was dragging his feet and dipping and dodging but girl a man can only do what you allow so if you allow him to play in your face WELLL THATS WHAT HES GONNA DO. He gave her an out in the beginning and he was wrong for the flip flopping but that could’ve been avoided by her just taking her time to get to actually know him and his family. Like girl you pressed and want the love you’re surrounded by but not taking the steps to ensure yall foundation is solid. I felt like Ezios trauma was far more serious and intense than Jisei’s abandonment issues so for her to be in this book carrying on the way she did lost me bad. Like essentially after her OD she was punishing Ezio for the sins of her father and his shortcomings. I feel like she definitely needed to invest more time in therapy, getting help or just speaking to her people about how she felt. Through a majority of the story she was just giving spoiled princess vibes which threw me off because of how strong she was in the previous stories.a large majority of her dialogue and inner thoughts was Me, Me , Me a sprinkle of my fake daddy left me, Ezio so fine… Ezio annoyed me as well because you already traumatized that girl and your selfish self thinks LET ME DO REHAB IN HER HOUSE. Like damn you supposed to be the big boss of your family and you can’t consider what your choices, declarations and request would do to a woman you think you love?!? Like it was really a battle of wills, selfishness and trauma between them two. I’m really glad the author gave this a more realistic yet beautiful happy ending.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I realize that the author had to lay the foundation for the rest of the Cuppacio’s series. However, it was very slow at a lot of different points in the book. Then on top of it hat, Ms. Austin made it a point to emphasize the details of everyone’s outfit each time they appeared in the book. As for the characters, personally, I didn’t care for the way that Ezio treated Jisei. He dogged her out so bad in book one that I never forgave him. Add to that his addiction and you have a hot, hot mess. No wonder Jisei was depressed the whole time. I did however like the cameo appearances of Goal, Aphrodite and Daphne from the series Exhilarated.
Ok first so I was born and raised in Chicago and I hated how this author attempted to use Chicago slang. It came off corny asl and incorrectly used. Also this didn’t need 2 books. Especially when everything was so repetitive. The thoughts, the conversations and drama. I don’t even know what the plot was and I definitely don’t know how the 2 MCs got to the love stage when they spent 80 percent of both books apart or in conflict. Idk none of these characters really did it for me. And they all were unlikable. This book was simply okay.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Ezio & Jisei’s story is messy, real, and unforgettable. He was out here raising himself and holding it all together, while she was the balance that helped shape him into more. They might not be everyone’s favorite Cuppacio couple, but they’re definitely one of mine. Proceed with caution though—they’ll test your patience!
Ms Lisa Ms Lisa !!! Part 2! Was just a different type of read !! This book hit home in so many ways and to be honest! I dealt with a family member who went thru everything Ezio did and I definitely was Jisei !! Wowwww you really put in WORK in this book (LIKE ALWAYSSS THO) guys you will laugh, cry , want to fight and all reading this but it is worth all the emotions I mentioned, I will recommend this book to EVERYONE!! The growth from Ezio and the things he went thru was enough to read but babyyy !! He was not letting up on his Jae Bae!! And neither was she even if she wanted too! Love everything about this book, characters everything was just on point the back stories just everything was amazing! After reading this book it gave flashbacks but also closure ! You just never know what someone is going thru once again 5 stars all the wayyy!!! but let me see if I can get Selena look alike too loll.
Lisa as always you did a great job with this series. Ezio had been through way more than anyone truly knew about and he was hurting so much. His love for Jisei was so deep but he needs to really cleanse emotionally and physically. Jisei had been sheltered most of her life and spent the other half working her butt to accomplish things in life. Being the princess of the mafia was different and not so normal. I’m glad she had Dasani, Scarlett, Mocha and Daylani to always have her back. Through this rough transition and everything that had happened, so found her strength with her love for Ezio. I’m so here for the HEA and healthy new start for their relationship. I can’t wait for the Twins story next and Nel crazy self to hopefully find that one to tame him lmao.
Omg omg omgggggg! Lisa did her big one with this one! When I say I was on pins and needles waiting for the follow up. First of all the way she pushed part 2 out in 60 days was top notch! Then the build up with the teasers and fans speculating on what Olivia’s fate had better been to the actual “taking out of the trash”! This book takes you through all the emotions and hear me when I say all of them. Jae Bae did not disappoint at all. The intro of Enari, the family history by way of flashbacks,and the way we especially find humor in our hurt makes the book a must read. Don’t wait go read it for yourself and yes then read it again. Bravo Lisa Austin. The twins got nexttttt! I bet Selena on speed dial.🤣😂😅
I enjoyed the follow up. I still don’t understand how they were so madly in love with each other but yet they only seen each other maybe 3 to 4 times throughout the whole year and then went months without seeing or speaking to each other. Barely any texting (he would text and she would either ignore it or block him), no dates, etc. When they did see each other, the interactions were them dogging each other and bickering. The bond and love between them didn’t seem too realistic .. but they in love? Especially when he kept bringing up that he was only doing this to secure his families future.
Also, I could’ve been misreading, but I doubt it. .. in book one, he said Niccoli was his father, but then in book 2 I guess it was his uncle now?
Lisa!! Wow! Ezee+Jae Bae’s story captivated my heart from the beginning! They were something special together & individually! Since I hadn’t read any of the books tied to this series, I definitely appreciated the “blast from the past” you gave us with such intricate details of their childhoods and especially the reminders from Aunt Jolene—sis was definitely speaking to me even from the grave! Then that bomb you dropped on us at the end..wow, just wow! My jaw darn near hit the floor!! I’m so excited for more from this crew. Since the twins are up next, I know this rollercoaster ride is far from over but whatever is in store , I can’t wait for the ride!
Let me start off by saying, I can’t wait for the next Cuppacio installment! Lisa offered us some insight into Jisei and Ezio’s past and how they both had to go back to their pasts to overcome. I feel so bad for Dancing Bobby! I would’ve loved if Jisei and Bobby had a conversation. Also, I loved how you killed two birds with one stone towards the end. This book allowed us to see how addiction can affect someone and the people they love the most. Overall, I think it was beautifully written.
To have read most of your catalog all the way til now; and seeing your GROWTH!! I don’t think I’ve been this emotional reading any other book outside of The Hoods Virgin Mary. You definitely did your big one and I can’t wait until you get a movie deal because your creativeness deserves it, your characters deserve to be brought to the screen! I can’t wait to find out more from the twins and hear the full story since Nel finally calmed down. Everything about this book HIT‼️ The connections and flashbacks had my mind blown! I’m proud of you 💕
I really enjoyed the ending. I wish we could have seen their love grow. It seemed as if he was popping in and out throughout the series. They become intimate and he was gone for 3 months. Jisei worked hard on her peace of mind and Ezio played with her over and over.
Over all a great book, Ms. Austin did a really good job of giving us a look into each characters life. If gives you a better understanding of the pain and trauma they went through as a child. The one thing this book teaches you is healing is required before you can love someone properly.
Book Two and Lisa has not disappointed. Jisei is in a deep dilemma and honestly, I feel her. Guided by Aunt Polene’s words and her heart, she is conflicted. On the other hand Ezio is out here battling those demons and counting himself out. “Men that have stipulations with you ain’t nothing but a headache. The ones that say, I can’t do this until you do that, are the ones you pay no damn mind. Nine times out of ten, he full of so much shit, a laxative won’t even clear him out - Aunt Polene”
I enjoyed this story so much. I did not like Enzio in the beginning but i grew to like his pill head self. I just knew it was going to be over for him but Im glad he finally got his act together although it took him a good little while. I so love the sisterhood between the mob wives and cannot forget the comedy that the Cap cousins bring with the way they were going in.
Lisa NEVER DISAPPOINTS!!! This one definitely had me on an emotional rollercoaster. If you have never loved someone who suffers from addiction, you may not understand. My eyes were constantly sweating. Those Cuppacio and Rinaldi men will definitely keep you in stitches, I mean side hurting laughing. And lets not forget the Rinaldi women.... Can you say BIG STEPPERS!!!
Lisa, your gift with the pen is TOP TIER!!! Thank you for another superb read!!!!
The ending to Jisei and Ezio was very well put together by Lisa. She did not leave one question unanswered. I'm so happy my girl didn't die. She did not deserve to lose her life. Her man, Ezio, took her near death experience as an eye opener and got himself together for their sake. Great read! I enjoyed this book. Although it took me through many through many emotions.
Omg!!! lol First of all, you play too much. That’s why I half believed you lol. I’m glad you gave my girl JaeBae closure that she needed. Mrs Enri is good with me. I love how she asked that question and then proceeded to do all kinda things together. The feels 🥰🥺. The connection with Ize and Ezio was mind blowing. Loved that! That dang ending though!!! I’m so ready!!
The book was good and goofy but I was expecting more drama and a manhunt. Curious to see how the twins book will go. The book was long, but I felt there were more thoughts and descriptions of unimportant things versus the characters actually talking and having flashbacks. I hope the author switches that up for the next book along with separating the paragraphs more because it was too mashed up.
This book was a perfect ending to the Ezio and Jisei love story! She almost died for him to get his self together to realize , she was the prize! They both held on to emotional and traumatic baggage from the past that affected them in many ways! Once they were able to heal and let go of the past, love flourished! He finally gave her the her much deserved ring and crown! A great read!
I am not a fan of addiction books at all; I often try to avoid them, but this was written so beautifully! When Ezio came into Jae Bae's office as a new man… my heart!!! and somehow my eyes had water in them. 😂 Then the proposal just all the feels!!! I’m so glad they got this ending. I wanted this so badly for them! I can’t wait for the twins, especially Nel. He is becoming my personal fav and I knew it wasn’t what he thought. Hence, the ending!
This series just keeps getting better and better I’m glad once I saw and interest in put it on the Mob I went back and read the books before it. I LOVE EVERYBODY. I love how although the series continues and they are all in the mob everyone’s story is different. I’m so ready for the twins and hopefully shios story. I can already see Nel will have something with Pia and Shio will have something with Glo. IM READY
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5|🌶️🌶️🌶️.5 I’m not mad at the story line one bit, but I do feel like the story itself dragged a little bit. As always I loved the character development and the depth the story had, but the angst of Jae and Ezio push and pull was too much. Especially since we got a lot of that in book one.
I would absolutely still recommend and I’m excited for the twins story because Nel is so funny! 💖
Wheewww what a ride with book 2! I was so upset with Ezio but in the same breath i wanted to hug him. He was battling his demons while sacrificing himself to better his family. Jae Bae sis you can’t help who you love and no matter how many demons ezio had to fight Jae bae did not let him do it alone. Awesome series! Everybody is funny throughout the entire series!
I don’t think i said it in my last review but Nel can get it. I love a good funny man lol. I’m always laughing at his humor and the fact he’s obsessed with Selena. Anyway I thought we’d never get the happy parts messing with E&J. I can’t wait to see how everything plays out for the rest of the gang. Oh I like Shio too , he’s the only one who talks with some sense since book 1.
Whew‼️ This was all the emotions I went through while reading this book Chile Lisa ain’t come to play with the readers or authors. It’s the growth for me in the characters as well as Lisa’s writing. To make a book so good without all the extra drama is just top tier and I love that for her. BIG EZIO & IDC WHAT NOBODY THINKS I GOT HIS BACK & HE GOT MINES‼️😝😝
Whew Chile this book took me down and through it. I feel like I been down in the trenches do you hear me. I feel like I was there like a fly on the wall going through every single thing with them! This woman wrote the hell out of this book do you hear me! Sensational! I can’t wait for the rest of the stories
Amaazzzinnggg!!! Ugh!! I’m so sad it has ended. I love me some Ezio. I was sooo upset with him though! Because I wanted to forgive him & be mad at him at the same damn time!!! I’m happy that he did take accountability & get HELP! Jae Bae I’m glad you still around girl!!!! Can’t wait for the twins installment! I just know Nel finna have us on a rideeeee! ♥️
Lisa Austin has done it again!!! The series was AMAZING, the transition from the characters, the way everything just fell in line and connected was magnificent. Highly recommend this series. I love Ezio’s transformation and how you gave us a better understanding of his past! Can’t wait for the next installment of the series! GO READ THIS SERIES!! You won’t regret it!
Man now that is what you call real love. Ezio finally got it together. I wonder if that was Pia he seen, and if it was, since she is not blood related will they tie the knot. This book was the best one yet. It was really deep and Ezio was the real MVP. He held his family on his back since a young buck. His family owe him their life.
I really enjoyed this. You can see the hard-work in the entire body of work! I dragged Ezio name through the mud!!! But after hearing the memories and the series of events that happened I can totally understand and see why he made the choices he made. This book was great!!