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Corsican Crime Lord #3
Tears Like Acid
We’re destined to destroy each other, but we’re going to finish this game, no matter how long or what it takes.
In my line of business, every day dawns with the smell of death in the air. But it’s not a bullet that’s going to slay me. It’s Sabella, the woman who was promised to me, the woman who betrayed me.
I hate and want her in equal measure, an agonizing situation of my own making. We’re heading down a path of destruction, but there’s no turning back. At the first chance she gets, she’ll stab me in the back again. She’s a dangerous risk and a threat to my family. If I were wise, I’d eliminate that risk and leave her funeral to the sharks. I must be an idiot, because I’m going to finish what I started, no matter the cost.
Note: Tears Like Acid is the 3rd book in the Corsican Crime Lord series. Love Like Poison (Book 1) and Hate Like Honey (Book 2) must be read first. Sabella and Angelo's story concludes in Kisses Like Rain (Book 4). The story contains scenes not recommended for sensitive readers. Reader discretion is advised.
In my line of business, every day dawns with the smell of death in the air. But it’s not a bullet that’s going to slay me. It’s Sabella, the woman who was promised to me, the woman who betrayed me.
I hate and want her in equal measure, an agonizing situation of my own making. We’re heading down a path of destruction, but there’s no turning back. At the first chance she gets, she’ll stab me in the back again. She’s a dangerous risk and a threat to my family. If I were wise, I’d eliminate that risk and leave her funeral to the sharks. I must be an idiot, because I’m going to finish what I started, no matter the cost.
Note: Tears Like Acid is the 3rd book in the Corsican Crime Lord series. Love Like Poison (Book 1) and Hate Like Honey (Book 2) must be read first. Sabella and Angelo's story concludes in Kisses Like Rain (Book 4). The story contains scenes not recommended for sensitive readers. Reader discretion is advised.
308 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 7, 2023
101 people are currently reading
365 people want to read
About the author
Charmaine Pauls
73 books1,843 followersCharmaine loves to write dark and edgy romance that will melt both your e-reader and your heart.
She's a mom of two teenagers, an adorable dog, and a dominant cat. Her country of birth is South Africa where many of her stories play off. Her French husband kidnapped her to the south of France where she currently lives with her family.
When she's not writing, you'll find her in the kitchen baking cakes or in the gym lifting weights (because ... all those cakes!).
She's a mom of two teenagers, an adorable dog, and a dominant cat. Her country of birth is South Africa where many of her stories play off. Her French husband kidnapped her to the south of France where she currently lives with her family.
When she's not writing, you'll find her in the kitchen baking cakes or in the gym lifting weights (because ... all those cakes!).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 205 reviews
November 23, 2023
“My armor is cruelty, my defense for her repeated rejection the power I hold over her.”
This serie breaks my heart, this story is so intense…
It’s worth the reading.
This serie breaks my heart, this story is so intense…
It’s worth the reading.
October 28, 2023
After that cliffhanger in Hate Like Honey,i dreaded what was coming,but at the same time i needed it more than my next breath.
Finding the ARC of Tears Like Acid could be the cure to my aching heart….right?
I should’ve known that Charmaine wouldn’t give Angelo and Sabella what they needed just yet,though…
Even though we get to see Angelo change his mind a few times,he’s still hurting too much to see the truth.
He may act harsh and cruel towards Sabella,but still tries to make up for some of his actions.
The conflicting emotions he has are slowly killing him,but he still can’t find it in himself to trust his wife.
Even though he’s obsessed with her,he resents her at the same time for that obsession.
Banishing her to the abandoned house on his property may seem like the perfect solution,but what’s the use if you can’t stay away….
Ok,she can’t get access to the information he’s sure she’s looking for in order to betray him,but that’s it.
And why doesn’t he believe her when she insists she doesn’t want to betray him???
Why does he keep thinking she will,is that because of what her family did??
Asking her is useless as long as he doesn’t really listen to the answer,or look at her for what she really is….an innocent girl trying to adapt in a cruel world?
All Sabella wanted was a little peace,and someone to love her.
What she got instead was a husband that hated her for what her family had done to his.
And even though she hated what he’d done in return,she found she couldn’t hate the man.
She díd hate the distance he created,and the fact that she couldn’t find a solution.
So,instead she decided to pick her battles.
He wanted her naked on her knees when he entered the house,he got it.
He wanted her obedience without question,he got it.
In return,she would find her own pieces of happiness,even if it was in the little things….
Going to the village was a step in that direction,and meeting people that slowly accepted her for who she was,felt good.
As long as Angelo didn’t find out,she would be fine….
Until she found a little burglar,stealing her attempt at making a cake.
That little girl turned out to be exactly what she needed….someone that loved her unconditionally!
If only Angelo didn’t do what he was so very good at…..
Seeing how close Sabella and little Sophie had become in such a short time,he thought he’d found the solution to binding Sabella to him indefinitely.
Yes,he’d admitted to himself how he really felt about his wife,but did he talk to her??
Did he even try to give them a chance to have the relationship they both needed so badly??
Which leaves me with yet another cliffhanger…..one that hurts even more!!
Charmaine,you really have to give my heart a break…..you really need to give me something to ease the pain…..you have to give me Kisses Like Rain!!!
Finding the ARC of Tears Like Acid could be the cure to my aching heart….right?
I should’ve known that Charmaine wouldn’t give Angelo and Sabella what they needed just yet,though…
Even though we get to see Angelo change his mind a few times,he’s still hurting too much to see the truth.
He may act harsh and cruel towards Sabella,but still tries to make up for some of his actions.
The conflicting emotions he has are slowly killing him,but he still can’t find it in himself to trust his wife.
Even though he’s obsessed with her,he resents her at the same time for that obsession.
Banishing her to the abandoned house on his property may seem like the perfect solution,but what’s the use if you can’t stay away….
Ok,she can’t get access to the information he’s sure she’s looking for in order to betray him,but that’s it.
And why doesn’t he believe her when she insists she doesn’t want to betray him???
Why does he keep thinking she will,is that because of what her family did??
Asking her is useless as long as he doesn’t really listen to the answer,or look at her for what she really is….an innocent girl trying to adapt in a cruel world?
All Sabella wanted was a little peace,and someone to love her.
What she got instead was a husband that hated her for what her family had done to his.
And even though she hated what he’d done in return,she found she couldn’t hate the man.
She díd hate the distance he created,and the fact that she couldn’t find a solution.
So,instead she decided to pick her battles.
He wanted her naked on her knees when he entered the house,he got it.
He wanted her obedience without question,he got it.
In return,she would find her own pieces of happiness,even if it was in the little things….
Going to the village was a step in that direction,and meeting people that slowly accepted her for who she was,felt good.
As long as Angelo didn’t find out,she would be fine….
Until she found a little burglar,stealing her attempt at making a cake.
That little girl turned out to be exactly what she needed….someone that loved her unconditionally!
If only Angelo didn’t do what he was so very good at…..
Seeing how close Sabella and little Sophie had become in such a short time,he thought he’d found the solution to binding Sabella to him indefinitely.
Yes,he’d admitted to himself how he really felt about his wife,but did he talk to her??
Did he even try to give them a chance to have the relationship they both needed so badly??
Which leaves me with yet another cliffhanger…..one that hurts even more!!
Charmaine,you really have to give my heart a break…..you really need to give me something to ease the pain…..you have to give me Kisses Like Rain!!!
December 20, 2023
3.5 stars
The best in this series.
The best in this series.
November 4, 2023
This series is absolutely addicting!
My heart continues to break for Sabella as she is left isolated and without any comforts. However, she soon shows what she’s really made of as she takes steps that highlight her strength. Her struggle had me in tears at times especially when she was faced with Angelo’s actions and reactions.
Angelo’s pain from the loss of his family has led him to take steps that feel irredeemable. Since the author has warned that this is in fact the case, I am on high alert to his every movement where Sabella is concerned. This addition to the series brings some revelations that stirred my emotions up and had me clutching my kindle.
There are some secrets that peek out throughout the course of this book and I’m anxious about what the possible “villains” of this book might do. Even as things are getting stirred up in the background, the angst level between Sabella and Angelo ratchets up to nerve wrecking degrees. They are like fire together and their animosity towards each other often strikes their chemistry into an inferno.
This story moves from one extreme to the next and the ride it’s taking me on has me hanging on all the way to the end. It is extreme emotions, dark allure and hidden dangers. I’m here until the end!
Dual pov
Safe
Triggers
Steam
My heart continues to break for Sabella as she is left isolated and without any comforts. However, she soon shows what she’s really made of as she takes steps that highlight her strength. Her struggle had me in tears at times especially when she was faced with Angelo’s actions and reactions.
Angelo’s pain from the loss of his family has led him to take steps that feel irredeemable. Since the author has warned that this is in fact the case, I am on high alert to his every movement where Sabella is concerned. This addition to the series brings some revelations that stirred my emotions up and had me clutching my kindle.
There are some secrets that peek out throughout the course of this book and I’m anxious about what the possible “villains” of this book might do. Even as things are getting stirred up in the background, the angst level between Sabella and Angelo ratchets up to nerve wrecking degrees. They are like fire together and their animosity towards each other often strikes their chemistry into an inferno.
This story moves from one extreme to the next and the ride it’s taking me on has me hanging on all the way to the end. It is extreme emotions, dark allure and hidden dangers. I’m here until the end!
Dual pov
Safe
Triggers
Steam
December 30, 2023
I keep saying that these two have the most toxic relationship I've ever come across, but God, do I love them! And I'm here for all the toxic buildup and dysfunction between Angelo and Sabella. What does that say about me? 😂
November 1, 2023
After the way we left things previously I must confess I was slightly apprehensive embarking on this third book I was imagining all sorts. So this begins where we left off previously and in the aftermath of Angelo's meltdown, Sabella now finds herself banished from the main house by her husband. Angelo doesn't trust her one bit and despite knowing that logically she's not to blame for his family's fate he still can't help but hold her partially responsible.
Angelo struggles here with reconciling his conflicted feelings towards his new wife. He blames himself for feeling any sort of affection and care when all he thinks he should be feeling towards her is loathing and hate. Because of this he overcompensates with showing his contempt, It's almost like he believes what he projects will eventually find its way into his heart if he gives it his best effort. Regardless he can't resist Sabella no matter how hard he tries and this means in this third book his behaviour is erratic as he swings back and forth between two extremes. One minute loving and the next loathing, it's enough to give you whiplash.
Sabella by contrast tries to make the best of it despite the confusion and hurt she is feeling she's a pragmatic sort and attempts to pick her battles. She also manages to integrate herself with those meets her natural warm persona a hit with even the toughest judge.
We also have some secondary characters introduced and I'm sure there's more going on in the background regarding false information and stirring so I'm intrigued to discover what Angelo's family is hiding from him because there's definitely something.
This was an enjoyable read and even when Angelo was at his worst i still felt for his pain and suffering. He's his own worst enemy though and his mother and sister would be so mad at him for his current behaviour towards his innocent wife and Sabella well she came into her own here actually blossoming which is ironic considering all of the pressure she is under but she did find her feet here despite her less than ideal circumstances
I'm now looking forward to the conclusion of this story and seeing just how we get there. This is well-written and if you like dark toxic romance stories set in the criminal world this series has you covered. I voluntarily reviewed a copy of Tears Like Acid.
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
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November 21, 2023I have a hard time believing that the author will be able to make the grovel big enough in the next book to make up for 3 books of cruelty.
November 7, 2023
Genre: Enemies to Lovers, Crime Lord Romance
Series Type: Series; book 3 of 4
Book Length: Novel
POV: Alternating Dual
Setting: Corsica
Endearment: Bella and Cara
Spice Level: Medium
Frequency of Spice: Medium
Angst Level: High
Cliffhanger: Yes
Epilogue: Not yet
My Review: Angelo…oh dear Angelo. He is definitely something else. I wanted to strangle him throughout this book. Tears Like Acid continues in the same vein as the previous with Angelo fighting his feelings and treating Sabella as a hostage and his enemy. It was frustrating and angsty but had amazing moments of sweetness and incredible spice. I can’t wait to see how far Angelo will fall. He definitely has major groveling to do in order to earn Sabella’s love. Will he ever learn to see past his pain and anger? Will he ever trust his heart and just forgive Sabella for something she had no part of? Will they find true love together? I’m excited for the ending, it should be heart-wrenching and explosive and I can’t wait!
Series Type: Series; book 3 of 4
Book Length: Novel
POV: Alternating Dual
Setting: Corsica
Endearment: Bella and Cara
Spice Level: Medium
Frequency of Spice: Medium
Angst Level: High
Cliffhanger: Yes
Epilogue: Not yet
My Review: Angelo…oh dear Angelo. He is definitely something else. I wanted to strangle him throughout this book. Tears Like Acid continues in the same vein as the previous with Angelo fighting his feelings and treating Sabella as a hostage and his enemy. It was frustrating and angsty but had amazing moments of sweetness and incredible spice. I can’t wait to see how far Angelo will fall. He definitely has major groveling to do in order to earn Sabella’s love. Will he ever learn to see past his pain and anger? Will he ever trust his heart and just forgive Sabella for something she had no part of? Will they find true love together? I’m excited for the ending, it should be heart-wrenching and explosive and I can’t wait!
October 28, 2023
I dont even know where to begin I am so flipping mad at Angelo how freaking pig headed and dumb do you have to be. The way he is with Sabella is freaking cruel and I want to murder him myself. Sabella’s strength and the way she can seriously lock her feelings up there’s no way I could do it my heart breaks for her every second. She is so kind so caring so thoughtful even when she is treat less than she is pure gold. This series has seriously put my feelings through the wringer and I cannot wait to see how it will all end. Angelo is so freaking hung up on the fact he thinks Sabella is going to betray him which btw I don’t think would ever happen like not ever I feel like there is something going on in the back ground and they is something else in play here. I’m dying to get my hands on Sabella and Angelo’s conclusion
December 23, 2023
This is such a 'what if' series to me- there are so many different outcomes, and each plot twist/ major decision feels more striking than the last.
Loving this series- onto the next one.
Loving this series- onto the next one.
October 29, 2023
Tears Like Acid is the third book in the
Corsican Crime Lord
series and it continues the tragic love story of Sabella Edwards and Angelo Russo. It is a testament to Charmaine Pauls' writing and ability to evoke such visceral reactions and emotions from both her characters and readers. This series continues to stun me in the best of ways because the fault of the matter lies in the characters themselves. Angelo hates and loves Sabella in equal measures and cannot forgive her even though he knows that she did nothing wrong. His pride and ego prevents him from forgiving her, which tortures him in return. My heart breaks for Sabella because she has given so much of herself for Angelo but he continues to hurt her at every turn. Their love is tragic in the sense that it can never go back to the way it once was simply because he is unwilling to believe in her. His attempt to control and entrap her will only end in tragedy for the both of them.
In the end, I devoured this book and the wait for Kisses Like Rain is going to kill me because we're left with another brutal cliffhanger. Angelo has done some terrible things to Sabella but this might be the worst. He loves her and yet, the fact that he believes she will betray him is contradictory. He knows that he has been a monster to Sabella and yet he keeps hurting her all the same. This leads to me believe that Angelo's concept or notion of love is broken. How can he possibly love Sabella when he was the one who destroyed everything? On the other hand, Sabella has experienced tremendous growth and I am rooting for her happy ending—whether it be with or without Angelo. I can only hope Angelo will realize what a treasure Sabella is before it's too late. I expect the ultimate grovel scene because she deserves nothing less. I highly recommend this series to anyone who is looking for a heartbreaking and tragic love story between a tortured and broken anti-hero who hates and loves his sweet and resilient heroine.
*This ARC was generously provided by the author/publisher for an honest review*
“I’ll give him obedience. I’ll give him my body. I’ll pay that price. But I’ll never give him my heart or a child. And for as long as I live, I’ll never speak his name again.”
In the end, I devoured this book and the wait for Kisses Like Rain is going to kill me because we're left with another brutal cliffhanger. Angelo has done some terrible things to Sabella but this might be the worst. He loves her and yet, the fact that he believes she will betray him is contradictory. He knows that he has been a monster to Sabella and yet he keeps hurting her all the same. This leads to me believe that Angelo's concept or notion of love is broken. How can he possibly love Sabella when he was the one who destroyed everything? On the other hand, Sabella has experienced tremendous growth and I am rooting for her happy ending—whether it be with or without Angelo. I can only hope Angelo will realize what a treasure Sabella is before it's too late. I expect the ultimate grovel scene because she deserves nothing less. I highly recommend this series to anyone who is looking for a heartbreaking and tragic love story between a tortured and broken anti-hero who hates and loves his sweet and resilient heroine.
*This ARC was generously provided by the author/publisher for an honest review*
November 6, 2023
Tears Like Acid is the third book in the Corsican Crime Lord series and picks up after Hate Like Honey and must be read in order. Angelo is fighting his feelings for Sabella and this one he does some punishment as he banishes her to another house. Angelos just wants to make Sabella hurt, but he is so conflicted. Sabella is still not given up on herself but ends up finding a nurturing instinct on Angelo's niece and nephews. I think this installment was a bit of a filler with less action but its still important. There is another cliffhanger so I'll be back for the finale.
I received this book at my request and have voluntarily left this unbiased review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I received this book at my request and have voluntarily left this unbiased review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
November 17, 2023
MESMERIZING! Charmaine ramps up the tension, the heartache, and the angst in this third installment of the Corsican Crime Lord series. And I am HOOKED. The heartache, the emotional complication, the power dynamics, and the twists make this a complete and utter page turner. Charmaine beautifully marries quiet character driven moments with action-filled suspense and twists. Angelo and Sabella's relationship only grows more fraught and complicated,
Oh Angelo. I wasn't sure I could forgive him after the anger-fueled actions he took in book 2, and he starts off book 3 only digging a deeper whole for himself. Grief and distrust have catalyzed his darkness and vengeance in ways that only continue to hurt Sabella...and by extension himself. Their relationship is still so toxic and complicated, and I'm still not sure he can grovel quite enough to make things right, but Charmaine introduces some elements that let us see not only his remorse and doubt as it relates to Sabella and his conflicted feelings about her, but also his softer side, one that we've not seen in quite a few books. Man is crossing all sorts of lines, but Sabella is learning how to survive within his reign of hatred and doubt.
I feel so deeply for Sabella, who somehow has the patience to still see some heart within her estranged husband. Certainly she has her own faults to account for, but in this book I loved watching her grow into her own, find hope in her solitude, and stand up for herself a bit more with her tyrannical hubby. She's still completely at his mercy, and secrets still create a really formidable wall between them, but were also seeing glimmers of their connection deepening and tenderness break through his iron wrath. He clearly feels for her more than he wants to admit, and both see a side of each other this book that they needed reminding off...since there was once fondness between them.
The dichotomy within Angelo makes for a really angsty and emotionally riveting narrative, as well as the little world we see Sabella build for herself as she tries to fend for herself. Her transformation is what I loved most, and I'm hopeful for what this can mean in a finale where Angelo finally has to earn her forgiveness. Because he has a lot to be forgiven for....a lot. Sabella still is soft and caring, but she's finding her spine, her tenacity in strong display, and the heat between them is still scorching, even if it's shrouded in icy shards.
The intensity is next level, the angst so high, and I know we're gearing up for an epic finale. I'm hopeful we'll see Angelo transform into a more OTT hero in a delicious way, a forgivable one, and I can't wait to see how these two find a way to their HEA.
Oh Angelo. I wasn't sure I could forgive him after the anger-fueled actions he took in book 2, and he starts off book 3 only digging a deeper whole for himself. Grief and distrust have catalyzed his darkness and vengeance in ways that only continue to hurt Sabella...and by extension himself. Their relationship is still so toxic and complicated, and I'm still not sure he can grovel quite enough to make things right, but Charmaine introduces some elements that let us see not only his remorse and doubt as it relates to Sabella and his conflicted feelings about her, but also his softer side, one that we've not seen in quite a few books. Man is crossing all sorts of lines, but Sabella is learning how to survive within his reign of hatred and doubt.
I feel so deeply for Sabella, who somehow has the patience to still see some heart within her estranged husband. Certainly she has her own faults to account for, but in this book I loved watching her grow into her own, find hope in her solitude, and stand up for herself a bit more with her tyrannical hubby. She's still completely at his mercy, and secrets still create a really formidable wall between them, but were also seeing glimmers of their connection deepening and tenderness break through his iron wrath. He clearly feels for her more than he wants to admit, and both see a side of each other this book that they needed reminding off...since there was once fondness between them.
The dichotomy within Angelo makes for a really angsty and emotionally riveting narrative, as well as the little world we see Sabella build for herself as she tries to fend for herself. Her transformation is what I loved most, and I'm hopeful for what this can mean in a finale where Angelo finally has to earn her forgiveness. Because he has a lot to be forgiven for....a lot. Sabella still is soft and caring, but she's finding her spine, her tenacity in strong display, and the heat between them is still scorching, even if it's shrouded in icy shards.
The intensity is next level, the angst so high, and I know we're gearing up for an epic finale. I'm hopeful we'll see Angelo transform into a more OTT hero in a delicious way, a forgivable one, and I can't wait to see how these two find a way to their HEA.
May 12, 2024
Sabella and Angelo's relationship is so dark, toxic and angsty! He has forcefully married her but when he brought her to his house the next day he banished her.
Angelo blames her for things she didn’t do. They both lost so much and my heart hurts for them.
The continuation of this series involves trying to find a way to navigate all the hurt and maybe repair the broken relationship.
The smut top notch and chef kisses!
- no cheating, no ow drama, both virgins
Angelo blames her for things she didn’t do. They both lost so much and my heart hurts for them.
The continuation of this series involves trying to find a way to navigate all the hurt and maybe repair the broken relationship.
The smut top notch and chef kisses!
- no cheating, no ow drama, both virgins
November 12, 2023
3/5
La historia mejoro un poco en cuanto a toxicidad,aunque en esta entrega la parte hot se va para el lado turbio y el trato a la protagonista no es el mejor, al menos parece ser todo más consentido, (inexplicable el porqué, pero bueno).
Todo el libro es bastante relleno y tampoco es que la historia avance mucho realmente.
Alguna vez quiero leer un enemies to lovers donde la chica realmente haya hecho algo que justifique el odio del "heroe", acá son familias enemigas pero ella no hizo nada y el si le hizo daño a ella, frío y calculado.
Leeré el último porque como ya dije en el anterior cada libro maneja muy bien los cliffhangers para mantener las expectativas.
Pero, insisto en que estos libros se podrían resolver en una sola entrega. La estrategia de varios volúmenes será eficiente para vender, pero el resultado son historias nada memorables.
La historia mejoro un poco en cuanto a toxicidad,aunque en esta entrega la parte hot se va para el lado turbio y el trato a la protagonista no es el mejor, al menos parece ser todo más consentido, (inexplicable el porqué, pero bueno).
Todo el libro es bastante relleno y tampoco es que la historia avance mucho realmente.
Alguna vez quiero leer un enemies to lovers donde la chica realmente haya hecho algo que justifique el odio del "heroe", acá son familias enemigas pero ella no hizo nada y el si le hizo daño a ella, frío y calculado.
Leeré el último porque como ya dije en el anterior cada libro maneja muy bien los cliffhangers para mantener las expectativas.
Pero, insisto en que estos libros se podrían resolver en una sola entrega. La estrategia de varios volúmenes será eficiente para vender, pero el resultado son historias nada memorables.
October 29, 2023
“Tears Like Acid” is the third book in Charmaine Pauls’ Corsican Crime Series. I have been following and loving this series from the beginning but I have to profess that this has been my favourite instalment so far. If you haven’t read this series yet, let me tell you that you are missing an awesome treat. Sabella and Angelo’s story is a story of revenge, passion, hate and love and every second of it is breathtaking.
The second book had left off with Angelo discovering Sabella in Angelo’s late sister’s room just after Sabella had accidentally broken her glass necklace. Angelo is still furious at Sabella and her family for their part in the loss of his family and can’t seem to forgive her. He is stuck between his need for revenge and the all consuming lust he has for his new bride.
Sabella on the other hand is in a new country far far away from her family and everything that is familiar to her. She can’t forget Angelo’s family’s part on the loss of her father but is also trying to come to terms with the dark side of her own family history and their dealings. No matter how hard she tries she also can’t deny the attraction she has for her enigmatic husband. A man that no matter how much her mind and heart tries to deny, her body just can’t.
In the third book we meet Angelo’s young niece and nephews and through them get to see another side of Angelo. We also see Sabella growing more confident and see her trying to make her marriage work and even hoping for a happy future with her husband.
Will Angelo and Sabella be able to forgive each other and make their marriage work? Will Angelo get his wish for an heir? Will this couple finally be able to forgive each other and have their happily ever after?
Can’t wait for the fourth book of this exciting series! All hail the Queen of Dark Romance and her latest masterpiece!
Thanks to Charmaine Pauls for providing this ARC in exchange for and honest review.
October 27, 2023
In this third book, there were too many lost between them. Too many hurt and lies. Too many broken heart to see clear between love and hate. I wonder how Sabella and Angelo will find each other again?
One thing for sure i love about this book is Sabella being away from her family. For me, their influence, their haughty believe they are still above Angelo and not one thing they done wrong to him, in this book i can breath easier from them. And for Sabella character to come out. To realise her family did wrong for her unhappiness today.
And Angelo, love how his inner fight goes. This man is tortured from his lost. Dying inside for his love to Sabella. Basicly destroying him self between love and hate. This tells you how Angelo does have heart despite everyone said other wise, including Sabella. Angelo feels too much with over burden shouldering responsibility.
Their HEA would be too sweet at the end.
Love the inner battle. How they slowly realise each other need toward the other. Book four gonna be so good cause i see betrayal in the future 😘
One thing for sure i love about this book is Sabella being away from her family. For me, their influence, their haughty believe they are still above Angelo and not one thing they done wrong to him, in this book i can breath easier from them. And for Sabella character to come out. To realise her family did wrong for her unhappiness today.
And Angelo, love how his inner fight goes. This man is tortured from his lost. Dying inside for his love to Sabella. Basicly destroying him self between love and hate. This tells you how Angelo does have heart despite everyone said other wise, including Sabella. Angelo feels too much with over burden shouldering responsibility.
Their HEA would be too sweet at the end.
Love the inner battle. How they slowly realise each other need toward the other. Book four gonna be so good cause i see betrayal in the future 😘
November 9, 2023
Tears Like Acid was the third book in the Corsican Crime Lord series, and it continued the story of Sabella and Angelo.
Angelo knew that Sabella had betrayed him and was a threat to his family, but despite this, he couldn’t help but feel a mix of hatred and desire for her.
Charmaine created a dark and angsty story.
The writing was fast-paced and filled with tension, and kept me the on the edge of their seat.
I loved the complicated relationship between Sabella and Angelo.
It's a rollercoaster of emotions, as they both struggle with their feelings for each other while also knowing that they are heading to destroy each other.
The plot was filled with twists and turns.
This book is that not a standalone. You’ll need to read the first two books in the series to fully understand the story and the characters.
Tears Like Acid was an intense read and after that ending I’m desperate for book four.
Fans of dark romance and dark Mafia crime will enjoy the Corsican Crime Lord series.
Angelo knew that Sabella had betrayed him and was a threat to his family, but despite this, he couldn’t help but feel a mix of hatred and desire for her.
Charmaine created a dark and angsty story.
The writing was fast-paced and filled with tension, and kept me the on the edge of their seat.
I loved the complicated relationship between Sabella and Angelo.
It's a rollercoaster of emotions, as they both struggle with their feelings for each other while also knowing that they are heading to destroy each other.
The plot was filled with twists and turns.
This book is that not a standalone. You’ll need to read the first two books in the series to fully understand the story and the characters.
Tears Like Acid was an intense read and after that ending I’m desperate for book four.
Fans of dark romance and dark Mafia crime will enjoy the Corsican Crime Lord series.
October 29, 2023
I was super excited to read this third installment in this series. It really took me by surprise with how everything unfolded. Even more surprising was Angelo. I'm not going into detail but when you read this you'll completely understand it's like you know him but you don't and you just can't like him but you can. He's one of those characters that you just want to hate but you kind of can see underneath all that that there's just something more to him. Sabella goes through a lot and deals with enough from him too in this. You can also see in this story how she's growing and becoming more of who she is. Secrets, half truths, love, hate, and a few twists. Exceptional story that's written well. A must read.
November 14, 2023
This third book basically starts off where the second one ends. It is a book that has you hooked from the very beginning of it. It is a very emotional rollercoaster for both our characters and for ourselves. You can feel their emotions as if they are your own. You go through the journey with both Sabella and Angelo as they try to figure out what to do with each other. With Angelo you want to hate him but yet you can't help but love him. He has been through so much pain that you understand how he feels. The same can be said for Sabella. I really loved the growth that she does in this book. You really see a side to her that is absoultly amazing. I do not like to give any spoilers to my reviews because I really want someone else to enjoy the story as much as I did. So, I won't give anything away but let me tell you that this book sucked me right in and didn't let go. We get the end of this book and boy what a cliffhanger it is. You are saying to yourself that you have to know what is going to happen. The store is extremely well written and developed. It is a story full of secrets and half truths. It is a story that is darker and you have this amazing moments through it. This is an absolute must read.
October 29, 2023
Tears Like Acid continues with the struggle between Sabella and Angelo. Every time this couple begins to connect and mesh something always blocks them, whether it be internal doubt, monologue or external forces constantly manipulating this relationship.
Sabella is doing what she can to find peace with her situation, for such a young woman she is mature in her thinking and ideas. She is compassionate and caring to a fault. And Angelo is fighting his emotions and feelings and his love.
As much as I need and want book 4 I don’t want this fabulous story to end. This couple has left a mark on my heart ❤️
Sabella is doing what she can to find peace with her situation, for such a young woman she is mature in her thinking and ideas. She is compassionate and caring to a fault. And Angelo is fighting his emotions and feelings and his love.
As much as I need and want book 4 I don’t want this fabulous story to end. This couple has left a mark on my heart ❤️
October 31, 2023
“She’ll blow out her last breath on this property. Her body will fertilize the very soil I’m standing on. Even in death she’ll be punished, banished to her corner like a traitor deserves.”
Grief makes people do and think wild things. Angelo is completely unhinged and isn’t thinking properly. He’s awful and making rash decisions. There’s a war inside his head. He loves and hates his wife and he’s gonna end up being his own downfall if he keeps this up. This is part of a four book series, and it makes me nervous as to what point he’s got a change his tune.
Sabella was banished to another house. Isolated but not defeated, she makes friends and her own money in secret. She comes to know one of the “feral” children from Angelo’s side of the family and becomes attached to the child.
Book three is a bit of a filler book. We see something is brewing behind the scenes with Angelo’s uncles. Something isn’t right and I’m curious to find out what’s going on!
“She can run until she doesn’t have a single breath left in her lungs, but she can never hide from me.”
Grief makes people do and think wild things. Angelo is completely unhinged and isn’t thinking properly. He’s awful and making rash decisions. There’s a war inside his head. He loves and hates his wife and he’s gonna end up being his own downfall if he keeps this up. This is part of a four book series, and it makes me nervous as to what point he’s got a change his tune.
Sabella was banished to another house. Isolated but not defeated, she makes friends and her own money in secret. She comes to know one of the “feral” children from Angelo’s side of the family and becomes attached to the child.
Book three is a bit of a filler book. We see something is brewing behind the scenes with Angelo’s uncles. Something isn’t right and I’m curious to find out what’s going on!
“She can run until she doesn’t have a single breath left in her lungs, but she can never hide from me.”
November 11, 2023
Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆ Spice: 🌶🌶🌶
Angst: 💔💔💔💔
Cliffhanger? ✔️
Do I recommend it? ✔️
Tropes: dark mafia romance, new adult, enemies to lovers, romantic suspense, arranged marriage
They're destined to destroy each other, but they're going to finish this game, no matter how long or what it takes. In Angelo's line of business, every day dawns with the smell of death in the air. But it’s not a bullet that’s going to slay him. It’s Sabella, the woman who was promised to him, the woman who betrayed him. He hates and wants her in equal measure, an agonizing situation of his own making. They are heading down a path of destruction, but there’s no turning back. At the first chance she gets, she’ll stab him in the back again. She’s a dangerous risk and a threat to his family. If he were wise, he'd eliminate that risk and leave her funeral to the sharks. He must be an idiot because he's going to finish what he started, no matter the cost.
This couple and their author put my heart in a vise grip. After the cliffhanger, I had to check that it was still beating properly. This series has me falling in love with this author's creative ability. My emotions were everywhere. I wanted to throttle Angelo while admiring Sabella's strength and heart. The angst had me riding the edge of my seat, especially with the twists and turns. It was almost impossible to put the book down for any amount of time. I highly recommend this read. This is my honest opinion, freely given.
Angst: 💔💔💔💔
Cliffhanger? ✔️
Do I recommend it? ✔️
Tropes: dark mafia romance, new adult, enemies to lovers, romantic suspense, arranged marriage
They're destined to destroy each other, but they're going to finish this game, no matter how long or what it takes. In Angelo's line of business, every day dawns with the smell of death in the air. But it’s not a bullet that’s going to slay him. It’s Sabella, the woman who was promised to him, the woman who betrayed him. He hates and wants her in equal measure, an agonizing situation of his own making. They are heading down a path of destruction, but there’s no turning back. At the first chance she gets, she’ll stab him in the back again. She’s a dangerous risk and a threat to his family. If he were wise, he'd eliminate that risk and leave her funeral to the sharks. He must be an idiot because he's going to finish what he started, no matter the cost.
This couple and their author put my heart in a vise grip. After the cliffhanger, I had to check that it was still beating properly. This series has me falling in love with this author's creative ability. My emotions were everywhere. I wanted to throttle Angelo while admiring Sabella's strength and heart. The angst had me riding the edge of my seat, especially with the twists and turns. It was almost impossible to put the book down for any amount of time. I highly recommend this read. This is my honest opinion, freely given.
November 7, 2023
The Corsican Crime Lord is just one of those series that gets darker and darker with each new book. In Tears Like Acid the antihero Angelo has got to be one of the nastiest out of her all her hero and comparing him to the Angelo of the first book is like night and day. When it comes to the heroine Sabella, he just can’t see past his hatred despite his intense attraction for her, but he’s also wracked by guilt over the loss of his family and feels like any softness he feels is a betrayal. He can’t keep away from her but can’t allow himself to trust her because of her family. No matter what he does to break her, Sabella just keeps making the most of things and all she wants is someone to love. Once again, a fabulously gripping story from this author, full of twists, turns and laden with heavy sexual tension between the hero and heroine from this author before culminating in yet another cliffhanger ending. Charmaine Pauls is surely turning into the queen of the cliffhanger but at least the next book will wrap everything up.
November 7, 2023
4.5 Stars
Tears Like Acid picks up right where Hate Like Honey leaves off, and I love the direction the book takes and the new characters Sabella interacts with (and later, Angelo too). This kind of plot thread in particular is something that can be hit or miss with me so I was pleased by how much I enjoyed it after being apprehensive when the direction first revealed itself. (Deliberately vague to avoid spoilers.)
I seriously love this couple SO much, and I really feel their tortured love for one another, as well as the corners their history and actions have painted them into. They continue to have a delicious, steamy physical relationship, while battling against all of the past hurts and convoluted emotions of the present. I very much look forward to the final book and the resolution for everything going on, coming next month.
Tears Like Acid picks up right where Hate Like Honey leaves off, and I love the direction the book takes and the new characters Sabella interacts with (and later, Angelo too). This kind of plot thread in particular is something that can be hit or miss with me so I was pleased by how much I enjoyed it after being apprehensive when the direction first revealed itself. (Deliberately vague to avoid spoilers.)
I seriously love this couple SO much, and I really feel their tortured love for one another, as well as the corners their history and actions have painted them into. They continue to have a delicious, steamy physical relationship, while battling against all of the past hurts and convoluted emotions of the present. I very much look forward to the final book and the resolution for everything going on, coming next month.
November 9, 2023
Book three in this series and still the author manages to surprise me with all the twists that both shock and delight. Hate Like Honey left on a brutal cliffhanger that left me reeling.
The anticipation for this book was huge and it lived up to my expectations. Angelo is such a complicated character and just when I think he is going to be able to look forward rationally something happens to send him spiraling backwards. My heart hurts for Sabella as she tries desperately to make the best of the situation she finds herself in. The conflict that she feels towards Angelo is so present in this one as he shows her moments of caring and tenderness. I enjoyed seeing him start to question himself as he starts to see what everyone else does, that Sabella was a warm caring loving woman who would do no harm. I loved the new characters that were introduced as we got to see a new softer side to Angelo. I am sure the author is not finished twisting my emotions and although it ended on another cliffhanger it wasn't quite as brutal this time.
The anticipation for this book was huge and it lived up to my expectations. Angelo is such a complicated character and just when I think he is going to be able to look forward rationally something happens to send him spiraling backwards. My heart hurts for Sabella as she tries desperately to make the best of the situation she finds herself in. The conflict that she feels towards Angelo is so present in this one as he shows her moments of caring and tenderness. I enjoyed seeing him start to question himself as he starts to see what everyone else does, that Sabella was a warm caring loving woman who would do no harm. I loved the new characters that were introduced as we got to see a new softer side to Angelo. I am sure the author is not finished twisting my emotions and although it ended on another cliffhanger it wasn't quite as brutal this time.
November 7, 2023
What to do when you love someone with so much hate, guilt, and resentment in your heart?
In this book these elements are in play with Angelo and Sabella, they love each other so much that it hurts.
Angelo is so blind and so immersed in his pain and making Sabella pay for faults that do not belong to her and he does not realize that the enemy is not her but his own environment. Sabella is willing to be Angelo's toy but without giving up her heart and soul since it belonged to her husband from the day she first saw him. He is her cold ocean, stormy and sinister, but he also gives her calm, peace and confidence. This third book is beautiful, it is not so dark, but it is the way to redemption. I think little by little both give in because they love each other.
In this book we also learn a little more about Angelo and his family background, including his nephews, who will undoubtedly also becoming bond to Bella. This is Angelo and Bella's thread and it is not definitively broken... or will Angelo lose that little light that Sabella has for his darkness?
From where will the redemption come? Is the forgiveness that we expect from this story going to come? Will Angelo either give in to his love for Sabella or the revenge for his family will be stronger than his love?
In this book these elements are in play with Angelo and Sabella, they love each other so much that it hurts.
Angelo is so blind and so immersed in his pain and making Sabella pay for faults that do not belong to her and he does not realize that the enemy is not her but his own environment. Sabella is willing to be Angelo's toy but without giving up her heart and soul since it belonged to her husband from the day she first saw him. He is her cold ocean, stormy and sinister, but he also gives her calm, peace and confidence. This third book is beautiful, it is not so dark, but it is the way to redemption. I think little by little both give in because they love each other.
In this book we also learn a little more about Angelo and his family background, including his nephews, who will undoubtedly also becoming bond to Bella. This is Angelo and Bella's thread and it is not definitively broken... or will Angelo lose that little light that Sabella has for his darkness?
From where will the redemption come? Is the forgiveness that we expect from this story going to come? Will Angelo either give in to his love for Sabella or the revenge for his family will be stronger than his love?
October 28, 2023
I feel like I was holding my breath while reading Tears Like Acid.
The anticipation of something or anything to happen be it good, bad, or plain terrible.
Sabella and Angelo's last book, which ended with Angelo banishing her from his home and this book starts right where there that one is finished. Angelo feels he can not trust Sabella.
Sabella has lost her home and her family and is married to a monster.
"My destiny is his wrath. It’s the price I’m paying for my family’s sins. It’s the price Angelo has to extract for his losses. Maybe tormenting me makes dealing with his pain easier. Heaven knows, he’s perfected the art of torture. He’s a master at it. He doesn’t even need a whip."
Buckle up because Tears Like Acid is an emotional roller-coaster of everything in one. I am definitely looking forward to that finale finish in Kisses Like Rain.
The anticipation of something or anything to happen be it good, bad, or plain terrible.
Sabella and Angelo's last book, which ended with Angelo banishing her from his home and this book starts right where there that one is finished. Angelo feels he can not trust Sabella.
Sabella has lost her home and her family and is married to a monster.
"My destiny is his wrath. It’s the price I’m paying for my family’s sins. It’s the price Angelo has to extract for his losses. Maybe tormenting me makes dealing with his pain easier. Heaven knows, he’s perfected the art of torture. He’s a master at it. He doesn’t even need a whip."
Buckle up because Tears Like Acid is an emotional roller-coaster of everything in one. I am definitely looking forward to that finale finish in Kisses Like Rain.
November 5, 2023
5* Love/Hate Stars
Tears Like Acid, the third book in the Corsican Crime Lord Series, was a tense and emotional read. It broke my heart when Sabella was banished from the main house even though they are now married. Angelo is so angry and hurt from what her family did to his that is so conflicted towards his feelings towards her. One minute he loves her and the next, hates her!
Sabella through all of this banishment and being treated so harshly has managed to find a strength she did not know she had.
I am loving this series and the complicated relationship between Angelo and Sabella. I need for them to find their HEA and hopefully we will get this in the final book Kisses Like Rain.
October 27, 2023
In book 3 we see Angelo and Sabella circling each other as they try to figure out what the other wants and what they want themselves. They connect physically but neither is willing to give up their pride or ego to share what they’re really feeling. I liked this book but it did feel like it was a bit slow in different parts, so I’m curious how the story will conclude and if Angelo and Sabella will really be happy in the end.
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