Honey Fasinga has long avoided her mobster family and tried to build a life free from their corrupt influence. However, now in her eighties, she returns to New Jersey and finds herself being drawn back into the fold. Honey reluctantly begins to confront the dark memories of her childhood and the question of whether one can ever truly escape their past and family ties.

The novel does not shy away from the brutal realities of Honey’s upbringing, exploring how violence shapes identity and relationships. At its core, the story examines the complexities of familial love and loyalty, even in the face of deep-seated betrayal and pain. Honey’s journey is one of self-discovery, as she strives to remain true to herself and questions if she can ever find peace with her past.

One of the standout aspects of "Honey" is its secondary characters. Honey’s neighbor, Jocelyn, is particularly memorable, providing a source of warmth and humanity. Characters like Honey and Jocelyn make this an emotionally resonant novel that will stick with readers long after the book is over.

I'm so excited for this one! Thank you to NG and the publisher for providing me with this advanced e-copy in exchange for an honest review &/or promotion. I've heard amazing things about this one, so I'm excited to dive in!

I love and will read anything with "... returns home to address a tragic past" in the blurb! The characters were the best part of this one, they really stood out and will stick with me.

If you run long enough, you may end up where you started, especially if family is involved. Eventually, you have to face their choices . . . and yours. According to Victor Lodato, author of HONEY, the most reliable narrator in this instance, is, of course, a woman in her eighties. The tough, elegant Honey might be dealing with some memory issues but that’s not stopping her from “keeping it real,” whether that means wearing designer gowns and going to art shows, or cuffing abusive muscle heads, or aligning with mafia family members she despises. Lodato has offered up a highly readable redemption novel with realistic, jaded characters who have to struggle with what makes them ugly and embrace what can make them whole, even when it’s uncomfortable. -Holly Lorincz, owner of Cloud & Leaf Bookstore