Black Tears

Marchetti Family #1

by Angel Nyx

Giovanni Marchetti


I don't date employees. I don't even sleep with them. That can make things too messy when it all goes south. One look at Carly and my fingers itch to trace every luscious curve of her body. But I have secrets. Secrets that could destroy lives.


Carly Ballentyne

After my son's father was killed I focused on just being a mother. I didn't date. I definitely didn't date my employer. Every time Gio calls me Bella in that sexy, Italian voice, my resolve melts just a little more. Would it really be so wrong to let him make me feel whole again?

Genres: Romance

310 pages, Paperback

First published April 25, 2019

About the author

Angel Nyx is an author of paranormal, and contemporary romance, romantic suspense, and post-apocalyptic romance with some why choose thrown into the mix. Her passion for literature was instilled in her at a young age when her mother read her fairy tale stories at bedtime. Her vivid imagination helps her get in tune with her characters to bring them to life for her readers. She is also a mom, a reader, and an avid gamer chick. When she's writing, reading, or gaming, she is usually relaxing to music, spending time with family, or finding new authors to fall in love with. She has a long time love affair with the city of New Orleans and plans to make it a regular vacation destination in coming years.

Reviews

[Siobhan · Rating 3 out of 5]

I’ve read all of Angel Nyx’s releases to date, except for Scarlet Roses (which is on my to-read list), and have enjoyed them all. Some I have enjoyed a bit more than others, but they’ve consistently left me willing to come back for more. When I found out the next Angel Nyx release was to be a mafia release, I was super eager.

I have a weakness for mafia romances, especially the dark kind, and had high hopes for Black Tears. Although I did enjoy Black Tears, it wasn’t quite to my usual mafia standard. I think a large part of this is a reflection of the books I usually read in the genre. I read the super dark, the extremely intense, and Black Tears is more for the mainstream mafia romance reader. For those of you raising an eyebrow in questioning, I assure you there is a difference. I belong to the group reading the books others label too dark, and it often leaves me a wee bit disappointed by the mainstream notion of mafia romances.

Despite the fact Black Tears was not as dark and intense as I usually like my mafia romances to be, it was an addictive read. It was a quick read, one I devoured in no time at all, and there was plenty thrown into the story. There were the expected elements for such a read, along with a few twists to make it unique. Moreover, we were introduced to a family that will leave you wanting to come back for more.

Whilst Black Tears has not earned the label of my favourite Angel Nyx read, it’s another addictive story.

[Sheri Cordell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Marvelous Mafia Romance!!

Angel Nyx is a new author for me, and I really enjoyed Black Tears. Dark, Sci-Fi, & Shifter Romances are my preferred genres of reading, but on occasion I will read others such as Mafia or MC.

Carly and Gio are the central characters in this story that takes place in New Orleans, Louisiana. Carly is a single mother doing the best she can to support both herself and her son by dancing in a club called “Dangerous Curves” under the name of Lola. The Marchetti family acquires the club and eldest son Gio is sent in by his father to investigate rumors of the dancers being coerced into sexual activities by the current manager.

From the moment they lock eyes, Carly and Gio are attracted to each other but Carly is afraid of being hurt again, so she keeps her distance from him. But it becomes a difficult task to do, since every time she turns around in the club he is right there. Over the course of their budding friendship, Gio comes to respect and admire Carly’s fierce attitude and sense of doing what’s right no matter the cost.

After learning of other illegal activities going on inside the club, Gio sets about making changes and one of these will involve Carly. The last thing his family needs is unwanted attention from the police and Gio is determined to make “Dangerous Curves” a decent and profitable club.

As their friendship slowly morphs into a more romantic relationship, other outside influences and plot twists will play a part in their lives with devastating and lasting consequences. The question is, will Carly and Gio be strong enough to survive what comes their way? Who can be trusted? And more importantly, will Gio be able to protect Carly and her son?

Black Tears is a great start to the Marchetti Family Series, and I am looking forward to reading the next book. It had just the right amount of tension, suspense, and violence to keep me interested and invested in the outcome of all involved. If you enjoy mafia style romance with believable characters, plot twists and HEA’s, then I recommend Black Tears.

[Viper Spaulding · Rating 4 out of 5]

Terrific mafia romance set in NOLA

Carly's high school boyfriend was killed shortly after she got pregnant, and she's been scraping by on her own ever since. When the sexy Gio takes over as the new owner of the strip club where she works, things start looking up for her. Gio is a wonderful book boyfriend, devoted and focused and all about problem-solving. I loved his interaction with his family, especially his mother.

The story was fairly fast-paced, full of secrets and surprises and lots of family dynamics. I didn't think there were enough details to explain how they wrapped up the loose ends after the crisis event, but that was the only weak spot in the story. This is not a mafia-light story where criminal activity is avoided at all costs, so be warned that good vs. evil doesn't always line up with legal vs. illegal. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.

[Sophie Ruthven · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow this was a new to me author and was not expecting to be as enthralled.
I read this in a day as I got so involved with the story that I could not put it down.
Looking forward to the rest of the series

[Nicole Cook · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a book you guys NEED. It is sexy, swoony and real. Gio is a soft yet hard well off mobster and Carly is a girl from the wrong side of the tracks who had to grow up way too fast. Together they are sexy as sin. Work place romance. Mafia. Dark. Sweet. Just keep your hands off Gio. He's mine.

[carrie thackston · Rating 5 out of 5]

Black Tears is a great read. It is a mafia romance than is not too heavy, but not too light, if that makes sense. Carly is a single mom who is not happy with her job, but will do everything she can to provide her son with a safe and happy home. She endured the tragic loss of her son's father when she was younger and decided that it would be better to build walls so she doesn't go through that again. Gio is part of the Italian mafia and doesn't want for anything, until he meets Carly. Gio is alpha and used to giving orders and having them followed, again, until he meets Carly. There was some suspense with a stalker, some jealousy, and an internal struggle for Carly. I loved how sassy she was, but she was stupid at times too. I think we all are every now and then. Very entertaining! Look forward to more

[Tracie Simister · Rating 5 out of 5]

I Gave This Book an Overall Rating Of 5 ✩’S
Title: Black Tears
Series: A Marchetti Family Novel
Genre: Romantic Suspense, Contemporary Romance
Author: Angel Nyx
Format: Kindle Edition
Published on: April 25, 2019
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I voluntarily received a Courtesy Copy of this book from Be My Book Boyfriend and am choosing to leave a review.
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Character’s Descriptions:
Giovani Marchetti swears he wont date an employee because things can get messy
Carly Ballentyne single mother trying to get by
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What I liked/Didn’t Like: This one keeps you on the edge of your kindle and is action packed.
Loved the single mom/boss dynamic and how it flowed to romance between the two characters.

[Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first Angel Nyx book and while I enjoyed the story, it wasn't as dark as I would have liked. One thing that I did like about the story is that while Carly and Gio are attracted to each other, given her history of being hurt emotionally when it comes to guys, she does try to steer clear of Gio, but they do manage to strike up a tentative friendship that does evolve. So refreshing to see a couple become friends first, instead of jumping in the deep end without knowing how to tread carefully.

Gio's got good plans for getting the club to be on the legit side of business, and of course there are some who don't necessarily agree and cause havoc and chaos, but that's what else keeps the story moving forward. I was engaged from start to finish and can't wait to read more about the Marchetti Family.

[Terri Tutor · Rating 4 out of 5]

To be perfectly honest, books about the Mafia are not my favorite genre. I was surprised that I enjoyed this book much more than I thought that I would. The Marchetti family reminded me more of the Corinthos family on “General Hospital” than the Corleone family from “The Godfather”, where family and friends are more important than anything else. Any violent acts were explained and reasoned out. Carly was a very strong woman who came from a disadvantaged background, which explained her actions and her circumstances. The sparks between Carly and Gio were shooting off of the pages. One of the reasons that I liked this book is Ms Nyx’s writing flowed and was easy to read.

[BusyM3 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a new author for me and it didn't disappoint. A story that will take you on a rollercoaster ride of emotions, twists and turns, strong characters, off the charts chemistry. This story is about Gio the ganster who doesn't date the employees but one look at Carly and that rule is out the window. Carly is a dancer at the new businees the family has just inquired, she is a single mom and has built up walls around her. Gio wants nothing else but to take care of her and her son at all cost. You will be turning the pages till the very end to see what happens next. A must read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Debbie Caswell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gio is the scion of a mafia family and his main rule is that he never dates employees. When he is asked to check out a new bar that they have recently purchased in New Orleans he has no idea what is about to happen Carly works at the bar and she isn't to impressed when she first meets Gio and she definitely has no intention of dating him. After all she is a single mother and she needs her job So why does his accent make her melt and why is she having second thoughts about dating her boss. But what secret is Gio keeping and does she really want to be drawn into his life and what will happen when danger knocks on her door because of him.

[Rowena · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m always looking for an enjoyable mafia romance read and this was a must read. I loved the characters that this author brings to life with their family dynamics, strong characteristics and full on heat level. Carly’s was a strong single mom who does everything for her son and when she meets Gio there was instant connection which she try’s hard to deny. I loved that Gio was sweet with an alpha side that didn’t give up on Carly. Their great chemistry and intense relationship made for some sexy loving. My first read by the author and I was not disappoint.

[Roxanne Victor · Rating 4 out of 5]

This being a Mafia story you expect it to include some hard truths about life. The author did a solid job in explaining how and why the characters made the choices that they did. The story is engaging and I read it in one day, becoming involved and wanting to see the outcome. I confess that I am not usually a reader of this genre so crude language and criminal acts seemed a bit too much to me though I understand that others would disagree, I also do not see how the title fits the story. I do recommend the book, though, for well-written characters that are likable and that you root for, and an interesting, believable story.

[Susana Soto · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book I've read from this author. It's a mafia book, which was great since mafia books are my favorite books to read. I really enjoyed reading this book! The author did a great job with Gio's and Carly's story. The pull these two have is strong from the beginning. Carly fights it, and Gio keeps on pushing it. There's one problem: Gio is Carly's boss. Gio has a rule not to date employes, and Carly doesn't want to loose her job if things don't work out. Plus, she has someone else to think about. Will they have a HEA? You'll have to read the book to find out! I really hope the author writes stories for the other chacters too. I would really enjoy reading them.

[Sharon · Rating 4 out of 5]

The story is fast paced, full of twists and turns with lots of action, there’s also a sweet romance. This is a new author to me, and she has written a wonderful story, the plot is interesting, and the main characters are likable. If you enjoy Mafia romance, then grab this book and sit down to enjoy a great read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Wendy Livingstone · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a new author to me, and I will certainly be looking out for her work in the future. This is also the fist in a new series, and what a fantastic introduction this is. Gio is part of the mafia, and Carly is a stripper, and the chemistry between them is explosive. This is a well written story which is emotional, humorous, romantic, steamy, and emotional as well as having twists, secrets, and violence, all which had me totally captivated throughout this addictive page turner. I recommend this for all.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book I have read by this author but won't be the last. Wow! This book was awesome. Loved the author's writing style. Carly is a stripper who does her best to make ends meet. She meets Gio who in in the mafia, they have instant crazy hot chemistry. I was fanning myself while reading this book. Loved reading the steamy romance between these main characters. Has some danger, drama, suspense and twists in the story to keep it interesting.

[Allyson Sherwood · Rating 4 out of 5]

Terrific. Enticing Mafia romance.

Really enjoyed this new author and I am looking forward to reading more from her. Gio and Carly were captivating and alluring in their own separate ways but then together they were sizzling hot. Not to mention Gio was all alpha male and protective.

*ARC provided by the author and BMBB team in exchange for an honest review.

[Vikki Purcell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved thia book. You can't help falling for Gio and Carly as they work their way through a relationship amid all the secrets and drama that are in their world. Can not wait for the next book in this series.

[Stacie · Rating 3 out of 5]

this book wasnt bad just hard to really get into the story. it has alot of good page turning parts but it is the characters that almost seem robotic in nature.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Raveen Vann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really enjoyed Gio and Carlys story a lot. This book is a forst for me by this author and i was definitely not disappointed in the least. I was hooked from page one until the end. I can not wait for more from this series.

[Kathleen Bradbury (Bulfon) · Rating 5 out of 5]

AMAZING! A fantastic, well written read. An intense storyline that holds your attention as you get caught up in the fierce twists and hot chemistry. Plenty of excitement and emotionally heartfelt. A thrilling must read.
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book."

[Abigail Pettit · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think the amazing thing about this novel is that is breaks conformity of what I am used to reading and it is written so elegantly and I cannot wait for more from this series. Angel outdoes herself again with the Mafia series. Definitely brings the heat and the tears.

[E Loprete · Rating 5 out of 5]

I voluntairly reviewed an advance copy of this book. Black Tears by Angel Nyx is a first time author for me and I am so glad I was given the opportunity to review this book. This story was filled with emotion, violence, sexy scenes with twists and turns but most of all love and dedication of La Familia. This was a dark sweet story about Gio and Carly when they meet at the club he owns and the strong chemisty that develops between them and how their relationship develops. You will love this story from beginning to end leaving you wanting more. This is a must read and I highly recommend this to all. Can't wait to read more books by Angel Nyx.

[Annette Drewett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Family is everything. When Gio, son of the Italian mafia boss in New Orleans, is asked to look into a new bar the family has purchased, little does he know that it will change his life. Carly’s first impression of Gio isn’t favourable, however, as time goes on, her feelings change. Can Gio protect Carly from danger, when she still doesn’t know what he does for a living? This story is well-written with exciting scenes which keep you on the edge of your seat. I don’t read many mafia books, but I will definitely be reading more of this genre from Ms Nyx.

[JennSanta5 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow... just wow . this a great first book in this series. Engaging and sexy charters. Can't wait for the next one !

[Theresa Willett · Rating 4 out of 5]

I don’t usually read Mafia, this one has swayed me to pay more attention to them. I am in love with Gio and Carly.

[Jacinta - Aussie Book Nook · Rating 5 out of 5]

Angel is an author that I will always one click. Angel has branched out of paranormal romance and into Mafia (insert heart emoji) I love it! Angel has this knack of writing stories that give you something you didn't know you were missing. Gio is that! This is a well written and engaging story that will keep you turning the pages. Definitely recommend this one.

[Alexis · Rating 5 out of 5]

i love this book its so good
five stars book

[Lauren Bruce · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really liked this book. Very well written and the story flows so easy. Love, definitely recommend. The characters were cute and swoon worthy.