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Carfano Crime Family #2
The Boss
Abrianna
Leo Carfano was my everything. Until I woke up one day and he was gone, leaving me with three parting words written on a piece of paper that have haunted me for the past five years.
But even after all this time, the pain in my chest is still as prominent as ever, and there isn’t a day that goes by without him invading my mind.
He’s my walking nightmare.
When my eyes meet his hard stare again in the last place I expect to see him, he makes me question everything I thought I knew about why he left. He seeks absolution in his confessions, and although they break me further, I can’t help but see the truth that’s laced in everything he does and says.
I’m his. Always.
Which is why he’s the only one I trust when everything I thought I knew about my life is a lie.
Leo
Abrianna Fleming was the light in my dark world.
An angel I never deserved.
I wanted to give her forever, but she was never mine to keep.
When it was time for me to step up and claim the throne I was born to rule, I did the only thing I knew would keep her safe and alive.
Dragging her into my world would make her the number one target of my enemies, but after five years of depriving myself of her, one look into her eyes has me forgetting any plan I thought I had. Because I’ll be damned if I give her up a second time.
Being together has the potential to destroy the both of us and the family names we bear, but Abrianna is mine, and I’ll eliminate anyone who tries to hurt or take her away from me.
Leo Carfano was my everything. Until I woke up one day and he was gone, leaving me with three parting words written on a piece of paper that have haunted me for the past five years.
But even after all this time, the pain in my chest is still as prominent as ever, and there isn’t a day that goes by without him invading my mind.
He’s my walking nightmare.
When my eyes meet his hard stare again in the last place I expect to see him, he makes me question everything I thought I knew about why he left. He seeks absolution in his confessions, and although they break me further, I can’t help but see the truth that’s laced in everything he does and says.
I’m his. Always.
Which is why he’s the only one I trust when everything I thought I knew about my life is a lie.
Leo
Abrianna Fleming was the light in my dark world.
An angel I never deserved.
I wanted to give her forever, but she was never mine to keep.
When it was time for me to step up and claim the throne I was born to rule, I did the only thing I knew would keep her safe and alive.
Dragging her into my world would make her the number one target of my enemies, but after five years of depriving myself of her, one look into her eyes has me forgetting any plan I thought I had. Because I’ll be damned if I give her up a second time.
Being together has the potential to destroy the both of us and the family names we bear, but Abrianna is mine, and I’ll eliminate anyone who tries to hurt or take her away from me.
267 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 18, 2021
534 people are currently reading
1180 people want to read
About the author
Rebecca Gannon
15 books191 followersRebecca is a dreamer through and through with permanent wanderlust. She's a lover of all things romance and writes what she loves to read, which is a little of everything!
When she's not writing, you can find her *attempting* to curb her online shopping problem while sipping an iced coffee and planning her next road trip!
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When she's not writing, you can find her *attempting* to curb her online shopping problem while sipping an iced coffee and planning her next road trip!
🖤
Website - https://rebeccagannon.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 108 reviews
May 2, 2024
2.75 Smut Scale Stars
Basically everything I said about book two applies to this book too...
Although this one has the added element of a second chance romance. And I also thought the ending was a little meh. And Leo got a liiiiitle too soft in his mafia-ness for my liking.
But still a decent smut mafia read.
Basically everything I said about book two applies to this book too...
Although this one has the added element of a second chance romance. And I also thought the ending was a little meh. And Leo got a liiiiitle too soft in his mafia-ness for my liking.
But still a decent smut mafia read.
May 19, 2021
After I read he made sure she stayed celibate for five years whilst he did not knowing he was going to get her back eventually, that just killed their romance for me. Apparently he had his reasons but he said he imagined they were all her and heroine actually felt thrilled by that! In her mind she was special to him so him sleeping with other women shouldn’t matter because as she believes SHE IS SPECIAL!
I couldn’t finish after that.
I couldn’t finish after that.
May 14, 2021
This is a new to me author and the second book in a series. There is a storyline about an opposing family that started in the first book and continues to the next, but I had no problem getting right into it and it worked as a standalone. There is a lot of sex in it and Leo is an intense and possessive alpha hero. Particularly in the beginning I wanted more story and less sex. Although I wasn’t fully satisfied with its outcome of punishment for the bad guy, I did like the twist at the end.
Safety gang and SPOILER -
It’s made very clear from the beginning Leo was not celibate during their 5 year separation. Although it’s not my favorite it does dial up the angst. In this case it bugged me as it wasn’t dropped and let go. He tells her while they’re having sex he tried to find women who looked like her to get her out of his mind. She was hurt but later it became more about the satisfaction for her that he tried and she couldn’t be replaced. The kicker for me was he walked out on her for her protection and hurt her but knew he’d come back when it was safe. He also kept other men from her. Meh. All of that mentioned throughout the book kept pulling me out of the story.
I received a copy of this book through Hidden Gem ARCs for an honest review.
2.5-2.75
Safety gang and SPOILER -
It’s made very clear from the beginning Leo was not celibate during their 5 year separation. Although it’s not my favorite it does dial up the angst. In this case it bugged me as it wasn’t dropped and let go. He tells her while they’re having sex he tried to find women who looked like her to get her out of his mind. She was hurt but later it became more about the satisfaction for her that he tried and she couldn’t be replaced. The kicker for me was he walked out on her for her protection and hurt her but knew he’d come back when it was safe. He also kept other men from her. Meh. All of that mentioned throughout the book kept pulling me out of the story.
I received a copy of this book through Hidden Gem ARCs for an honest review.
2.5-2.75
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 11, 2021
The book, for me, was split in two. The first 50% of the book, there was no story line at all. It’s the H/h going back and forth about their relationship of only 5 months. The H ends it and they go their separate ways for 5 years until they accidentally reconnect again at a party. Of course during their 5 year split, she stayed celibate and he did not *insert eye roll*.
The second half of the book is where a storyline comes into play. Since it’s mafia, you can figure it out. I don’t need to give you spoilers and since I received this as an ARC, I can’t anyway.
The h is boring and lacks personality. No character development on her end. She’s late 20’s and acts like a teenager. It was a big no for me. She’s all over the place. No consistency.
The H on the other hand, we see him grow and mature. A lot of depth with his character and I enjoyed reading him.
It’s nicely written from paragraph to paragraph and chapter to chapter is smooth transition. There is no angst or buildup of scenes though.
A lot of bedroom scenes... and I do mean A LOT and it’s in detail. Yum!
There’s no epilogue, but it does end on a HEA and it feels complete to where you know how this couple is going to end.
The second half of the book is where a storyline comes into play. Since it’s mafia, you can figure it out. I don’t need to give you spoilers and since I received this as an ARC, I can’t anyway.
The h is boring and lacks personality. No character development on her end. She’s late 20’s and acts like a teenager. It was a big no for me. She’s all over the place. No consistency.
The H on the other hand, we see him grow and mature. A lot of depth with his character and I enjoyed reading him.
It’s nicely written from paragraph to paragraph and chapter to chapter is smooth transition. There is no angst or buildup of scenes though.
A lot of bedroom scenes... and I do mean A LOT and it’s in detail. Yum!
There’s no epilogue, but it does end on a HEA and it feels complete to where you know how this couple is going to end.
May 2, 2022
This was fine. It didn't really stand out imo. I wasn't really rooting for Abrianna and Leo's relationship. I think she accepted him back into her life too quickly. He put her through hell and she kind welcomed him back with open arms. It was also such an annoying double standard that he didn't want her to sleep another man, he had her followed, and assured that she stayed celibate, but yet he looked for women who looked like her to sleep with. Like that's so stupid how he expects that of her. Idk, I just wasn't here for the book. Aside from the whole Leo situation, I empathized with her. Sam and her father basically lied to her for such a long time, and then she felt like she couldn't trust anyone. She loved helping others and the foundation was ripped away from her fingers. That's just really sad.
Anyways, it was fine. I'm just glad I got the book done.
Anyways, it was fine. I'm just glad I got the book done.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Want to read
May 18, 2023🎁 FREE on Amazon today (12/2/2022)! 🎁
May 10, 2021
I received a free ARC from Hidden Gems for the promise of an honest review.
It was written well. The story was good but it was a little anticlimactic. Abrinna and Leo has meet 5 years ago and had a romantic relationship for a few months. Leo left Abrianna after his father was killed. Now they have run into each other at Leo's brother's nightclub. Leo won't let Abrianna run from him. One think I am thankful for is that there isn't a lot of emotional angst in this nook;however, Abrianna gives in a little to easily to Leo and they quickly fall back into a relationship. The storyline with Sam and Abrianna's father is a little weak.
It was written well. The story was good but it was a little anticlimactic. Abrinna and Leo has meet 5 years ago and had a romantic relationship for a few months. Leo left Abrianna after his father was killed. Now they have run into each other at Leo's brother's nightclub. Leo won't let Abrianna run from him. One think I am thankful for is that there isn't a lot of emotional angst in this nook;however, Abrianna gives in a little to easily to Leo and they quickly fall back into a relationship. The storyline with Sam and Abrianna's father is a little weak.
August 7, 2022
📌
I enjoyed Leo and Abrianna story and loved Leo mentioning wanting to see her pregnant with his baby. However, I'm left feeling like there's unanswered questions: Abrianna kept mentioning wanting to be a Carfano, so did they get married? Leo mentioned wanting her pregnant with his baby, did they have a baby? Did she start her own charity, volunteer? The stories are definitely worth the read. Personally, I think they would benefit from an epilogue or two, or maybe even a novella.
I enjoyed Leo and Abrianna story and loved Leo mentioning wanting to see her pregnant with his baby. However, I'm left feeling like there's unanswered questions: Abrianna kept mentioning wanting to be a Carfano, so did they get married? Leo mentioned wanting her pregnant with his baby, did they have a baby? Did she start her own charity, volunteer? The stories are definitely worth the read. Personally, I think they would benefit from an epilogue or two, or maybe even a novella.
May 1, 2024
None of this author's female protagonists know how to say no. There's hardly ever any grovelling after the MMC has ACTUALLY messed up. The FMC just walks back to them, no harm no foul.
In addition, the books are badly written. Truly. I think the author only actually cares for spicy scenes which is why when Abri and Leo first meet one another after 5+ years, there's an urgency for spice. WHERE'S THE GROVELLING!
In addition, the books are badly written. Truly. I think the author only actually cares for spicy scenes which is why when Abri and Leo first meet one another after 5+ years, there's an urgency for spice. WHERE'S THE GROVELLING!
March 17, 2025
Wow! I love a good second chance romance and this did not disappoint! Leo and Abrianna were perfect for one another! After the years a part they found their way back to each other! It was like no time had passed! I loved how they both were protective and supportive of one another! They were definitely meant to be! ❤️
May 12, 2021
The Boss
Well it was a damn good story but the cliffhanger of and ending…. not so great. At. All!
Originally Leo and Abrianna met 5 years ago and only been together for 5 months before Leo split and stayed away, for the most part. That man stalked her after he shattered her to a shell of a person. For 5 years! And kept her single all that time while he ducked any woman that looked like Abrianna ‘Angel’ as he said, he was tormenting himself but trying to find in the others what he found in her…. what a crock of bullturds. He might be the Boss and Leader of his family’s crime organization but the man is a whimp, he chose his life as a leader then choosing his heart and love with Abri. And now the story continues into the next one where I would have liked some answers to this one answered before the ending
Well it was a damn good story but the cliffhanger of and ending…. not so great. At. All!
Originally Leo and Abrianna met 5 years ago and only been together for 5 months before Leo split and stayed away, for the most part. That man stalked her after he shattered her to a shell of a person. For 5 years! And kept her single all that time while he ducked any woman that looked like Abrianna ‘Angel’ as he said, he was tormenting himself but trying to find in the others what he found in her…. what a crock of bullturds. He might be the Boss and Leader of his family’s crime organization but the man is a whimp, he chose his life as a leader then choosing his heart and love with Abri. And now the story continues into the next one where I would have liked some answers to this one answered before the ending
April 29, 2024
h was celibate, and H was not.
When H knew she was celibate for five years he decided to bring her back.
WTF?😳
When H knew she was celibate for five years he decided to bring her back.
WTF?😳
April 25, 2023
2.5 rounded up to 3.
The first book introduced a plot involving a rival family which continues in the sequel. However, I found it easy to follow as a standalone. The novel contains a significant amount of sexual content, and the protagonist, Leo, is an intense and dominant alpha male. Initially, I wished for more emphasis on the plot rather than sex scenes. The story's resolution involving the antagonist's punishment left me somewhat dissatisfied, but I appreciated the unexpected twist at the end.
Leo's sexual relationships during his separation from the heroine are made clear early on, which adds to the emotional tension of the story. However, the fact that he actively sought out women who resembled her bothered me, as it was not resolved or addressed adequately. During a sexual encounter, he confesses this to her, causing her pain, but later she finds comfort in knowing that she is irreplaceable. What bothered me the most was the fact that he left her for her own safety, causing her pain, but always intended to return when it was safe. He also prevented other men from pursuing her, which did not sit well with me. All of these elements kept distracting me from the storyline.
The story was fast and spicy but there were so many huh moments I just did not like this book. I wanted to finish it but I had lots of thoughts of just putting it down. I am going to try the next book in the series as I did enjoy book 1. This one was just not for me.
The first book introduced a plot involving a rival family which continues in the sequel. However, I found it easy to follow as a standalone. The novel contains a significant amount of sexual content, and the protagonist, Leo, is an intense and dominant alpha male. Initially, I wished for more emphasis on the plot rather than sex scenes. The story's resolution involving the antagonist's punishment left me somewhat dissatisfied, but I appreciated the unexpected twist at the end.
Leo's sexual relationships during his separation from the heroine are made clear early on, which adds to the emotional tension of the story. However, the fact that he actively sought out women who resembled her bothered me, as it was not resolved or addressed adequately. During a sexual encounter, he confesses this to her, causing her pain, but later she finds comfort in knowing that she is irreplaceable. What bothered me the most was the fact that he left her for her own safety, causing her pain, but always intended to return when it was safe. He also prevented other men from pursuing her, which did not sit well with me. All of these elements kept distracting me from the storyline.
The story was fast and spicy but there were so many huh moments I just did not like this book. I wanted to finish it but I had lots of thoughts of just putting it down. I am going to try the next book in the series as I did enjoy book 1. This one was just not for me.
May 21, 2021
4 solid stars. I was looking forward to reading this book once I read the teaser in the first book because honestly this plays right into my jam. Mafia boss second chances. It's like Christmas and my birthday in one. And this book did not disappoint! The mob boss or heir having to give up the love of his life because of the dangerous lifestyle he is leading but ultimately reclaiming his love is my all time favorite trope. I might have mentioned this before. This book as exactly as it was suppose to go. I am looking forward to Luca's book! Now this book is not without its triggers because while H made sure h stayed celibate, he did fuck around with h look a likes. It annoyed me a bit but the strange thing was that h was ok with it, she sort of seem to like he was trying to chase her through her look a likes. Anyway, they were on a break technically so no cheating. I can see in the other reviews, people are hating on this fact so if you dont like this, better not read this book. If you are ok with this, then enjoy the ride. He really is totally devoted to her once he has her back
May 19, 2022
Was it love or just lust? He left her with only a note.
He said it was time, meaning the end for them. She crumpled, withdrawing into herself. 5 years have past, she’s found a calling. She & her friend take a birthday trip for her friend’s special day. They go to a bar/ casino with two striking guys only for her to lock eyes with HiM!
He said it was time, meaning the end for them. She crumpled, withdrawing into herself. 5 years have past, she’s found a calling. She & her friend take a birthday trip for her friend’s special day. They go to a bar/ casino with two striking guys only for her to lock eyes with HiM!
Read
September 5, 2022dnf. writing was wack
May 19, 2021
I have rated The Boss (Carfano Crime Family #2) at 5 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 and HIGHLY RECOMMEND–MUST READ!!! The Boss is a Mafia, Dark, Alpha Hero, Contemporary, Second Chance, Erotic, Romantic Suspense novel. This story is about: love, trust, heartbreak, darkness, deceit, redemption, regret, forgiveness and Intense-Scorching-Hot-Steam 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥.
Although I haven’t read the first book in the series Casino King, I was able to dive right in with book two with no problem or at any point felt lost. This is the first book I’ve read from author Rebecca Gannon and was captivated by the beauty in her writing and how real and raw the emotions of the characters were brought to life through me. That is what I call a true work of art!!! Bravo👏, Ms. Gannon you literally hit this one right out of the park. I have already purchased book one Casino King and anxiously await Vengeance releasing on September 28, 2021.
From the start of the book I was overwhelmed with so many different emotions at one time. My heart ached with pain, anger, and understanding. The sorrow and nostalgia described left me with a lump in my throat. Anguish, regret, and fear is eventually what unleashed the overflowing tears. Forgiveness, love, and hope had butterflies taking flight in my stomach which obviously made my heart swell 💗. The author definitely did not disappoint with all the raw feelings displayed.
Abrianna Fleming is a confident, beautiful, kind, and conquering the world through her selfless acts by running the family’s charitable foundation branch in New York. She meets Leo at her first hosted foundation gala and her fate, future, and heart are forever bound to him. Unfortunately, losing him—with no explanation—with no explanation, was something she wasn’t prepared for or her heart shattering into a million pieces.
Leo Carfano is a mafia boss for the Carfano crime family, dark alpha male, possessive, protective, determined, loyal, but tortured and broken by his past and the atrocities fated in his future. Meeting Abrianna was life being breathed back into him, she was the light to his darkness, an angel coming to save his dark soul.
Being apart is like death 10 times over with healing no where in sight. Fate brings them back together and the gravitational pull of desire, lust, and yearning is ever more present. Leo surrenders his heart and reveals his vulnerability, fear, and all consuming love. They conquer the hurts of unspoken words and actions of the past and battle through present and future dilemmas.
I received a free copy of The Boss through Hidden Gems and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
Although I haven’t read the first book in the series Casino King, I was able to dive right in with book two with no problem or at any point felt lost. This is the first book I’ve read from author Rebecca Gannon and was captivated by the beauty in her writing and how real and raw the emotions of the characters were brought to life through me. That is what I call a true work of art!!! Bravo👏, Ms. Gannon you literally hit this one right out of the park. I have already purchased book one Casino King and anxiously await Vengeance releasing on September 28, 2021.
From the start of the book I was overwhelmed with so many different emotions at one time. My heart ached with pain, anger, and understanding. The sorrow and nostalgia described left me with a lump in my throat. Anguish, regret, and fear is eventually what unleashed the overflowing tears. Forgiveness, love, and hope had butterflies taking flight in my stomach which obviously made my heart swell 💗. The author definitely did not disappoint with all the raw feelings displayed.
Abrianna Fleming is a confident, beautiful, kind, and conquering the world through her selfless acts by running the family’s charitable foundation branch in New York. She meets Leo at her first hosted foundation gala and her fate, future, and heart are forever bound to him. Unfortunately, losing him—with no explanation—with no explanation, was something she wasn’t prepared for or her heart shattering into a million pieces.
Leo Carfano is a mafia boss for the Carfano crime family, dark alpha male, possessive, protective, determined, loyal, but tortured and broken by his past and the atrocities fated in his future. Meeting Abrianna was life being breathed back into him, she was the light to his darkness, an angel coming to save his dark soul.
Being apart is like death 10 times over with healing no where in sight. Fate brings them back together and the gravitational pull of desire, lust, and yearning is ever more present. Leo surrenders his heart and reveals his vulnerability, fear, and all consuming love. They conquer the hurts of unspoken words and actions of the past and battle through present and future dilemmas.
I received a free copy of The Boss through Hidden Gems and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
May 13, 2021
I knew it since Casino King, but this just confirmed it: Rebecca Gannon knows exactly how to write a swoont alpha hero!
I am so in love with this book, it gave me all the feelings I needed. It had everything I was expecting: The steam, the angst, the family drama, the action and an absolutely delightful romance!
We met Leo in the previous book as the leader of the Carfano’s family. He’s loyal, protective, brave, determined, loving in his own way but we didn’t know how passionate and deeply broken he was. I loved how much he embraced his role as the head of the family and how he acknowledged the darkness in him. The need he had for Abrianna’s love was so swoony, he felt undeserving of her but still did everything he could to win her trust after such a long time. Even though he was such an alpha, he encouraged her and wanted her to do what made her happy.
I loved Abrianna so much, she was so fearless and brave. She had a huge heart and wanted to help others without asking anything in return. I lived that she gave Leo a chance to explain and to prove he was worthynof her trust. She was the light to Leo and the peace he didn’t know he needed. Even though she discovered many painful secrets and had to make difficult decisions, she never lost her kind and free spirit. She was definitely a badass heroine!
I don’t even have words to tell you how amazing the steam was! It was so deep and emotional because they both had such a strong connection and bond. Dirty talk in Italian? Excuse me while I melt!
”You’re my anchor, but you somehow make me feel like I’m flying at the same time”
The romance was beautifully blended with the mafia/action story line. I really didn’t know what was going to happen, it kept me intrigued and turning the pages with excitement and expectation. Believe me, you won’t know what’s coming!
I said this about Casino King too: It made me feel like I was watching a movie of the golden age. The Carfano’s are such a beautiful and interesting family, everyone has a story to tell and I really can’t get enough of them!
Ehem... I need Luca’s story so bad!
Many thanks to Rebecca Gannon for this ARC.
I am so in love with this book, it gave me all the feelings I needed. It had everything I was expecting: The steam, the angst, the family drama, the action and an absolutely delightful romance!
We met Leo in the previous book as the leader of the Carfano’s family. He’s loyal, protective, brave, determined, loving in his own way but we didn’t know how passionate and deeply broken he was. I loved how much he embraced his role as the head of the family and how he acknowledged the darkness in him. The need he had for Abrianna’s love was so swoony, he felt undeserving of her but still did everything he could to win her trust after such a long time. Even though he was such an alpha, he encouraged her and wanted her to do what made her happy.
I loved Abrianna so much, she was so fearless and brave. She had a huge heart and wanted to help others without asking anything in return. I lived that she gave Leo a chance to explain and to prove he was worthynof her trust. She was the light to Leo and the peace he didn’t know he needed. Even though she discovered many painful secrets and had to make difficult decisions, she never lost her kind and free spirit. She was definitely a badass heroine!
I don’t even have words to tell you how amazing the steam was! It was so deep and emotional because they both had such a strong connection and bond. Dirty talk in Italian? Excuse me while I melt!
”You’re my anchor, but you somehow make me feel like I’m flying at the same time”
The romance was beautifully blended with the mafia/action story line. I really didn’t know what was going to happen, it kept me intrigued and turning the pages with excitement and expectation. Believe me, you won’t know what’s coming!
I said this about Casino King too: It made me feel like I was watching a movie of the golden age. The Carfano’s are such a beautiful and interesting family, everyone has a story to tell and I really can’t get enough of them!
Ehem... I need Luca’s story so bad!
Many thanks to Rebecca Gannon for this ARC.
May 18, 2021
The addition starts with the book covers….yeah…yeah…yeah don’t judge a book by its cover they say ….well we all do it and this one here it is the scratch to your itch or better yet the filling to your oreos! Speaking of filling…..wait, that’s for later. Within the first chapters you get the panoramic view of whom you’re dealing with!
Bad boy….check
Bod boy’s crazy brother/friend…check
Bad boy’s Kryptonie…check ….check and check
By the time you’ve figured out who is who and how much you hate and wish for harm on others or just a wakeup call, you’re already hooked, and you may as well give up the fight and prepare yourself for an all-nighter! You will start it and You will not put it down until the last page has been turned.
Can’t say I didn’t warn you.
(Believe me when I say you won’t put it down until the last page is read…you will find yourself getting upset cause someone called, texted or bothered you while reading this one, you will find yourself up at ungodly hours just to finish it knowing you have to be at work early (like 3am early) the very next day) YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED!!!
The Carfano Series can be read as standalone books but why when each of these deliciously dark crime families and the queens that bring them to their knees. Leo is the leader of the crime family and to keep the women he loved safe but mainly she would be his weakness and a target for his enemies. But in doing so he unintentionally broke her heart. Abrianna loved Leo with everything she had but waking one morning to find him gone totally disappeared from her world leaving her in a shattered mess. Fast forward five years after putting her shattered pieces back together she didn’t date, had no interest in any other man and Leo did everything he could to find what he had with her in other women do not find it leads him back to the source. Will she forgive him, can he keep her safe protected and will they finally find their happiness?
Bad boy….check
Bod boy’s crazy brother/friend…check
Bad boy’s Kryptonie…check ….check and check
By the time you’ve figured out who is who and how much you hate and wish for harm on others or just a wakeup call, you’re already hooked, and you may as well give up the fight and prepare yourself for an all-nighter! You will start it and You will not put it down until the last page has been turned.
Can’t say I didn’t warn you.
(Believe me when I say you won’t put it down until the last page is read…you will find yourself getting upset cause someone called, texted or bothered you while reading this one, you will find yourself up at ungodly hours just to finish it knowing you have to be at work early (like 3am early) the very next day) YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED!!!
The Carfano Series can be read as standalone books but why when each of these deliciously dark crime families and the queens that bring them to their knees. Leo is the leader of the crime family and to keep the women he loved safe but mainly she would be his weakness and a target for his enemies. But in doing so he unintentionally broke her heart. Abrianna loved Leo with everything she had but waking one morning to find him gone totally disappeared from her world leaving her in a shattered mess. Fast forward five years after putting her shattered pieces back together she didn’t date, had no interest in any other man and Leo did everything he could to find what he had with her in other women do not find it leads him back to the source. Will she forgive him, can he keep her safe protected and will they finally find their happiness?
December 8, 2024
Okay, I don’t even know how to start this. Rebecca Gannon has me feeling a bit conflicted. On one hand, I really liked Leo and Abrianna’s chemistry—there’s this whole “light to his dark” thing that works for them. She balances him out in a way that makes sense, and I totally saw why they were perfect for each other. Plus, there’s no denying their connection. Talk about HAWT 🔥 But… ugh… like Tessa, I had some issues with how quickly Abrianna forgave him.
Let’s talk about that. He spent five years doing nothing but keeping tabs on her through a private investigator. One, that’s stalker-level stuff, and two, go f*ck yourself -you wrote…’times up Angel,’ meaning, you don’t get the grace to speak to me, let alone touch me. Yet, no wait, she’s ready to forgive him after, what, 24 hours? I get the love, I do, but I needed her to make him sweat a little more. She just gave in too easily. I wanted her to stand her ground, show him the pain he caused, maybe even make him earn that forgiveness—because let’s be real, he kind of needed to work for it. I needed to see him really beg, and yes, I’m all for second chances, but god damn it Leo - f’n BEG!
*Sorry, there’s something about how quickly these heroines cave that just doesn’t sit well with me. Leo needed to drop to his knees (king or not), but it didn’t happen. She just let him back in too quickly, leaving me frustrated as f*ck. Ahhhh…okay, getting off track here, apologies. 🫣
Anyways, the story is good—great even in some places—but right now, I think I’m just not in the mood for these types of heroines, especially in these intense, high-stakes relationships. That being said I do believe Leo and Abrianna are perfect together.
While this was a quick read, and while I can appreciate the tension and chemistry, I think I might be cutting the series short for now. These stories are solid, just not what I’m craving at the moment. Sorry guys. Please don’t hate me.
Let’s talk about that. He spent five years doing nothing but keeping tabs on her through a private investigator. One, that’s stalker-level stuff, and two, go f*ck yourself -you wrote…’times up Angel,’ meaning, you don’t get the grace to speak to me, let alone touch me. Yet, no wait, she’s ready to forgive him after, what, 24 hours? I get the love, I do, but I needed her to make him sweat a little more. She just gave in too easily. I wanted her to stand her ground, show him the pain he caused, maybe even make him earn that forgiveness—because let’s be real, he kind of needed to work for it. I needed to see him really beg, and yes, I’m all for second chances, but god damn it Leo - f’n BEG!
*Sorry, there’s something about how quickly these heroines cave that just doesn’t sit well with me. Leo needed to drop to his knees (king or not), but it didn’t happen. She just let him back in too quickly, leaving me frustrated as f*ck. Ahhhh…okay, getting off track here, apologies. 🫣
Anyways, the story is good—great even in some places—but right now, I think I’m just not in the mood for these types of heroines, especially in these intense, high-stakes relationships. That being said I do believe Leo and Abrianna are perfect together.
While this was a quick read, and while I can appreciate the tension and chemistry, I think I might be cutting the series short for now. These stories are solid, just not what I’m craving at the moment. Sorry guys. Please don’t hate me.
January 21, 2024
Leo and Abrianna- Book 2
I enjoyed this book more than I did book 1. It’s dual POVs, but it doesn’t have an epilogue and ends in a cliffhanger of sorts.
Leo is the head of the Carfano crime family. He is a OTT Alpha male that is very dominant. He was in a relationship with Abrianna 5 years prior, but when his Father and Uncle were murdered he let her go. Leo really thought he was doing the right thing since he felt she wouldn’t be right in his world.
Abrianna was completely in love with Leo. She fell first and when he left her, it broke her and turned her into a shell of herself. 5 years later Abrianna and her friend Shelby were in Alec’s casino in Atlantic City celebrating Shelby’s birthday. Once she sees Leo she flees and Leo is on the hunt.
This is a second chance romance with some very detailed spicy scenes. Once again, (and I can’t believe I’m saying this), there seems to be too many spice scenes. As in the first book, if there was a spot that needed to be filled, let’s add $3x. I know that they were getting back together but it did seem excessive.
The story picks up exactly where the first left off. So I do appreciate the continued story, but this story dropped off in a cliffhanger and I doubt we’ll find-out anymore info on Leo and Abrianna’s future. This story is shorter and I did enjoy the storyline. 4⭐️s is mainly because of no epilogue and I’m a sucker for the look into the future of our couple. No errors or misspelled words in their story. I would recommend. 💜💜
I enjoyed this book more than I did book 1. It’s dual POVs, but it doesn’t have an epilogue and ends in a cliffhanger of sorts.
Leo is the head of the Carfano crime family. He is a OTT Alpha male that is very dominant. He was in a relationship with Abrianna 5 years prior, but when his Father and Uncle were murdered he let her go. Leo really thought he was doing the right thing since he felt she wouldn’t be right in his world.
Abrianna was completely in love with Leo. She fell first and when he left her, it broke her and turned her into a shell of herself. 5 years later Abrianna and her friend Shelby were in Alec’s casino in Atlantic City celebrating Shelby’s birthday. Once she sees Leo she flees and Leo is on the hunt.
This is a second chance romance with some very detailed spicy scenes. Once again, (and I can’t believe I’m saying this), there seems to be too many spice scenes. As in the first book, if there was a spot that needed to be filled, let’s add $3x. I know that they were getting back together but it did seem excessive.
The story picks up exactly where the first left off. So I do appreciate the continued story, but this story dropped off in a cliffhanger and I doubt we’ll find-out anymore info on Leo and Abrianna’s future. This story is shorter and I did enjoy the storyline. 4⭐️s is mainly because of no epilogue and I’m a sucker for the look into the future of our couple. No errors or misspelled words in their story. I would recommend. 💜💜
May 19, 2021
This is my first read by author Rebecca Gannon. I found her writing to be polished and easy to follow. I enjoyed the story, which was essentially a second-chance mafia romance. The romance was steamy and well written. The characters were typical to the genre; male lead is an alpha mafia boss with a soft spot for the female lead. The female lead is kind and sees the goodness in him. There wasn't much of a backstory for either main character. The reader is told rather than shown the male lead had a tough as nails father that taught him everything he knows. The female lead discussed her fondness of her dad through memories of him teaching her poker.
I'd say the only nit pic I have with the book is the author's reuse of several phrases throughout the book (i.e. "my throat closes around a scream"). The MCs were together for five months and then MMC left for five years. I had a difficult time connecting to FMC being so in love with him after only five months that she spent five years pining over him and never even dated anyone else. Also, five years seems like a long time for the MMC to get his stuff together and get back to FMC. I think a year, maybe two at most is more believable. This kind of became a sticking point for me, but it didn't ruin the overall story for me. I would say this is a good, not great book and is a quick read.
I was sent a free book and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
I'd say the only nit pic I have with the book is the author's reuse of several phrases throughout the book (i.e. "my throat closes around a scream"). The MCs were together for five months and then MMC left for five years. I had a difficult time connecting to FMC being so in love with him after only five months that she spent five years pining over him and never even dated anyone else. Also, five years seems like a long time for the MMC to get his stuff together and get back to FMC. I think a year, maybe two at most is more believable. This kind of became a sticking point for me, but it didn't ruin the overall story for me. I would say this is a good, not great book and is a quick read.
I was sent a free book and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
September 7, 2023
My Rating: ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Disclaimer: I received a review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily. Thanks, to the author and BookSirens.
General Series Thoughts: Available on KU. Run to go read this one! This is a five-star series from top to bottom. With four books, that’s saying something. Each one managed to live up to the one before. I can’t say which one I liked best because all four leading men and women have my heart in a chokehold. STEAMY as all get out. This series is dark, romantic, addicting, and I stayed up way too binge-reading this series. Phenomenally well done. So excited to read the fifth one, which is related but the start of a new family. This is everything a mafia romance series should be. Rebecca Gannon has a new fan.
Book Thoughts: I didn't think I could love a couple more than Tess and Alec, but I also loved Leo and Abrianna. They were great separate and together, too. Second chances can be hard to do well, but Rebecca knocked this one out of the park. Extremely well done. Devoured this one!
Steam Meter: ❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥 Scorching!
Tropes
-dual POV
-Italian mafia
-dark romance
-second chance
-good girl/bad girl
You can read more of my reviews at mylastromance.com. You can also find me on Insta @mylastromancenovel.
Disclaimer: I received a review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily. Thanks, to the author and BookSirens.
General Series Thoughts: Available on KU. Run to go read this one! This is a five-star series from top to bottom. With four books, that’s saying something. Each one managed to live up to the one before. I can’t say which one I liked best because all four leading men and women have my heart in a chokehold. STEAMY as all get out. This series is dark, romantic, addicting, and I stayed up way too binge-reading this series. Phenomenally well done. So excited to read the fifth one, which is related but the start of a new family. This is everything a mafia romance series should be. Rebecca Gannon has a new fan.
Book Thoughts: I didn't think I could love a couple more than Tess and Alec, but I also loved Leo and Abrianna. They were great separate and together, too. Second chances can be hard to do well, but Rebecca knocked this one out of the park. Extremely well done. Devoured this one!
Steam Meter: ❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥 Scorching!
Tropes
-dual POV
-Italian mafia
-dark romance
-second chance
-good girl/bad girl
You can read more of my reviews at mylastromance.com. You can also find me on Insta @mylastromancenovel.
May 16, 2021
Another great book in the Carfano series. Once I started reading, I could not put my kindle down until I was done. Rebecca Gannon has a way of drawing you into her stories and makes you feel like you are there. This is the story of Leo and Abrianna. Leo is the leader of the Carfano crime family and decided that he did not want to bring Abrianna into his world where she would be his biggest weakness. Abrianna had her heart broken when she woke up one morning and Leo was gone. She had no idea what was going on. For 5 years she was heartbroken and never the same – she didn’t date and wasn’t interested in no other man, while Leo tried to find what he had with his “angel” as he called her in other women.
When Leo and Abrianna run into each other, it doesn’t take long for either one of them to give in to their desires. Could Abrianna forgive Leo for what he did? This story has it all – betrayal, deception, action, passion, loyalty, revenge and characters finding out who they really are. Great story with great characters. I am anxious to read the next book to see what kind of trouble Luca can get into! I received a free copy of this book via Hidden Gems ARC’s and am voluntarily leaving a review.
When Leo and Abrianna run into each other, it doesn’t take long for either one of them to give in to their desires. Could Abrianna forgive Leo for what he did? This story has it all – betrayal, deception, action, passion, loyalty, revenge and characters finding out who they really are. Great story with great characters. I am anxious to read the next book to see what kind of trouble Luca can get into! I received a free copy of this book via Hidden Gems ARC’s and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 19, 2021
AHHHH JUST LIKE I THOUGHT
A fucking masterpiece!
honestly tho, i was sick of people reviewing such a good book saying shit stuff like "he cHeAtEd" and "oThEr WomEn" type. Guys, listen to me. every book you read is not the same, WILL not be the same. if you don't like the ow trope like shown in THIS book then pls for goodness' sake, either don't read the book and even if you still do end up reading the book-- don't talk about it like that for YOUR opinion and voicing it out like the book was trash when it was anything but.
Also, every character in the book isn't going to be perfect at all and that's the beauty of it. so, for Leo, if he did what he did to get over Abri for that little while then that was HIS thought process, HIS way of thinking things through, HIS way of coping HIS loss for whatever reason it was.
Stuff like this adds to the story, the depth the author tries to reach within her characters yk, i absolutely LOVED the way Miss. Rebecca wrote Leo and i wouldn't have it any other way tbvh.
i loved the side characters and the romance between Abri and Leo, and goodness gracious his possessiveness over Abri? SWOOOOONNNNNN worthy shit i tell you.
Happy Reading!
A fucking masterpiece!
honestly tho, i was sick of people reviewing such a good book saying shit stuff like "he cHeAtEd" and "oThEr WomEn" type. Guys, listen to me. every book you read is not the same, WILL not be the same. if you don't like the ow trope like shown in THIS book then pls for goodness' sake, either don't read the book and even if you still do end up reading the book-- don't talk about it like that for YOUR opinion and voicing it out like the book was trash when it was anything but.
Also, every character in the book isn't going to be perfect at all and that's the beauty of it. so, for Leo, if he did what he did to get over Abri for that little while then that was HIS thought process, HIS way of thinking things through, HIS way of coping HIS loss for whatever reason it was.
Stuff like this adds to the story, the depth the author tries to reach within her characters yk, i absolutely LOVED the way Miss. Rebecca wrote Leo and i wouldn't have it any other way tbvh.
i loved the side characters and the romance between Abri and Leo, and goodness gracious his possessiveness over Abri? SWOOOOONNNNNN worthy shit i tell you.
Happy Reading!
January 15, 2022
Wow an actual plot, alongside the sex, sex and sex!
I read these books out of order. Three is sex, a bit of conversation, sex and sex. One is the worst! Sex, sex, sex and don’t ask for a plot line. So I nearly didn’t read this. I’m glad I did. There was an actual story. Abrianna had actual friends, a job she loved, and a life. Whereas the two women in the other books really don’t!
Abrianna comes from a wealthy family, and runs a charity, that she loves. After the love of her life Leo, writes a note that tells her they are over, she struggles to get over him. Five years later she bumps into Leo at a nightclub that he owns. I actually liked Leo. I can see why he left her, as he was convinced, she had come under the radar of his enemies. I loved the fact that he can admit he was weak, and shouldn’t have let her go.
A few spelling mistakes. Still way too much sex. I love her sex scenes as they are hot. But too many. When I wanted them to talk, he had sex with her and it’s annoying.
I read these books out of order. Three is sex, a bit of conversation, sex and sex. One is the worst! Sex, sex, sex and don’t ask for a plot line. So I nearly didn’t read this. I’m glad I did. There was an actual story. Abrianna had actual friends, a job she loved, and a life. Whereas the two women in the other books really don’t!
Abrianna comes from a wealthy family, and runs a charity, that she loves. After the love of her life Leo, writes a note that tells her they are over, she struggles to get over him. Five years later she bumps into Leo at a nightclub that he owns. I actually liked Leo. I can see why he left her, as he was convinced, she had come under the radar of his enemies. I loved the fact that he can admit he was weak, and shouldn’t have let her go.
A few spelling mistakes. Still way too much sex. I love her sex scenes as they are hot. But too many. When I wanted them to talk, he had sex with her and it’s annoying.
March 24, 2024
The Boss is the second installment in Rebecca Gannon’s The Carfano Crime Family series. In it she chronicles this second-chance-at-love journey of Abrianna Flemming and Leo Carfano. She is the daughter of a west coast financier who opens up a New York chapter of the family’s charity. He is the heir apparent of the Carfano crime family. When his father and uncle are murdered, Leo feels he has to break up with Abrianna. He stays away from her for years. Once he has control of his reign, he embarks on getting her back even though he has unfinished business with the crime family responsible for his father and uncles’ death. Soon Abrianna realizes that something is off regarding her assistant Sam. She witnesses him meeting with unsavory characters. Will Leo be successful? Will Sam’s behavior put Abrianna in jeopardy? Can Leo keep her safe? To find out you must read this book.
I enjoy Ms. Gannon for her outstanding writing. I appreciate her skill with literary devices such as conversation dialog and internal monologues, dual POV, and descriptive language. This plot is definitely a character driven plot as readers witness the way the lead characters grow. There is also a bit of intrigue connected to the nature of Leo’s crime family. I like the way Ms. Gannon uses suspense to heighten the rising action of her plot and the surprise role Abrianna’s father plays in this mafia suspense. Likewise, I liked how Alec is protective, and caring of Abrianna.
I enjoy Ms. Gannon for her outstanding writing. I appreciate her skill with literary devices such as conversation dialog and internal monologues, dual POV, and descriptive language. This plot is definitely a character driven plot as readers witness the way the lead characters grow. There is also a bit of intrigue connected to the nature of Leo’s crime family. I like the way Ms. Gannon uses suspense to heighten the rising action of her plot and the surprise role Abrianna’s father plays in this mafia suspense. Likewise, I liked how Alec is protective, and caring of Abrianna.
May 9, 2024
I wasn't a fan of book 1, not really. But I have a huge sweet spot for second chance romances where time passes and they come back together. It's my story arc weakness. So when I read the synopsis I knew I had to read The Boss!
On a storyline front: this was delicious for my senses. I loved every aspect of Leo and Abriella's story, the flashbacks, the sadness of parting the angst of it etc. And the super hot reunion and wooing her back. It was all great.
What knocked off stars was the constant overdescriptive and choppy writing between dialogue. It is likely just a personal preference but it wasn't working for me. I just wanted to know how things played out otherwise I would have dnf'd.
The ending was super rushed. Revenge is exacted swiftly and without much byild up and then its judt over with a flirty ending. It was too abrupt for me.
So much good but something about the writing style made this too short of perfect.
On a storyline front: this was delicious for my senses. I loved every aspect of Leo and Abriella's story, the flashbacks, the sadness of parting the angst of it etc. And the super hot reunion and wooing her back. It was all great.
What knocked off stars was the constant overdescriptive and choppy writing between dialogue. It is likely just a personal preference but it wasn't working for me. I just wanted to know how things played out otherwise I would have dnf'd.
The ending was super rushed. Revenge is exacted swiftly and without much byild up and then its judt over with a flirty ending. It was too abrupt for me.
So much good but something about the writing style made this too short of perfect.
May 13, 2021
Another great Mafia romance in the Carfano world.
Abrianna and Leo have a history. Leo left Abri in the middle of the night when he realised that being with her meant she was always in danger. Fast forward 5 years, Leo knows his mistake of letting her go and goes back to get his angel.
I love dark romances and add a Mafia twist and I’ll for it. The story is well thought out with some plot twists I didn’t see coming until the big reveal. I love a story that keeps you guessing.
Leo and Abri are undeniably hot. Abri is the light to Leo’s dark. Leo is the strength to Abri’s compassion. I love how they complement each other and they are explosive together. Definitely a Mafia couple you don’t want to mess with.
I loved the little nugget of information we get at the end for a set up for the next book.
Abrianna and Leo have a history. Leo left Abri in the middle of the night when he realised that being with her meant she was always in danger. Fast forward 5 years, Leo knows his mistake of letting her go and goes back to get his angel.
I love dark romances and add a Mafia twist and I’ll for it. The story is well thought out with some plot twists I didn’t see coming until the big reveal. I love a story that keeps you guessing.
Leo and Abri are undeniably hot. Abri is the light to Leo’s dark. Leo is the strength to Abri’s compassion. I love how they complement each other and they are explosive together. Definitely a Mafia couple you don’t want to mess with.
I loved the little nugget of information we get at the end for a set up for the next book.
March 18, 2022
3.75 STARS!!!
Not as bad as what most of the reviews said. I do agree that Abri forgave Leo way too fast - but with how in love they are with each other, it makes sense for them to reunite that fast? Party because they’ve been apart for 5 years. Gotta make up for lost time, if ya know what I mean 😉 what made this book sort of frustrating for me (and why it’s not rated 4 stars above) is that at times, I felt bored. Not immensely, but I could flip a few pages without reading the context and not care about missing parts of the story. I did find the mafia aspect and violence better than the first book! Again, what irked me most was how Leo had to repeatedly say to Abri that he fucked NUMEROUS women over the time they were separated - oh and they all physically looked like Abri. Once or twice mentioned is okay, but a couple times? No, Leo!
Not as bad as what most of the reviews said. I do agree that Abri forgave Leo way too fast - but with how in love they are with each other, it makes sense for them to reunite that fast? Party because they’ve been apart for 5 years. Gotta make up for lost time, if ya know what I mean 😉 what made this book sort of frustrating for me (and why it’s not rated 4 stars above) is that at times, I felt bored. Not immensely, but I could flip a few pages without reading the context and not care about missing parts of the story. I did find the mafia aspect and violence better than the first book! Again, what irked me most was how Leo had to repeatedly say to Abri that he fucked NUMEROUS women over the time they were separated - oh and they all physically looked like Abri. Once or twice mentioned is okay, but a couple times? No, Leo!
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