While men made war, women were expected to keep the peace.
I had loved a man before. I swore that would never happen again.
So marrying for the sake of the family wasn’t the worst thing.
That’s what I thought.
I was a mafia princess afterall and serving as a trading item was my only role in this world ruled by men.
But the man waiting for me at the altar, wasn’t the one who my uncle had given me to.
The future Don of the New York famiglia had taken his brother’s place in this arrangement. Even though a part of me fluttered at the thought, the other part was enraged that they would toss me around like I was nothing.
It stung that my future husband had so little respect for me when, despite having sworn off love, all I wanted was for him to look at me as more than an item off his list.
Matteo Battaglia would stop at nothing to get what he wanted, and that seat in The Commission would be his even if my life and my heart was the demanded sacrifice.
He needed to marry to finally take his place. I was the last piece to his ascension.
Torn by Honor is the second book in a duet, written in dual POV with open door steamy scenes. The completed duet can be read as an interconnected stand-alone romance novel that ends with a guaranteed HEA.
For the complete experience please be sure to read the first book of the duet Bound by Deception.
This is the third book in the Lords Of The Commission – New York series and it’s a lighter shade of Mafia romance, featuring forced marriage and enemies to lovers tropes amongst others. There are dark subjects throughout, but it can’t be considered an overly dark story. Content warnings do still apply.
Hi. I'm Stephanie, big dreamer and self-confessed accidental writer. This corner of the internet is where my big dreams and my “accident” meet. Welcome! What started as a way to push my boundaries and keep myself busy, turned into something I never expected when I clicked on a button with the word “publish”. Fast-forward a year and I have three books to my name: Beyond Temptation, Beyond Deception and Beyond Redemption. The Beyond Series.
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After reading Bound by Deception, I couldn't wait to get my hands on Torn by Honor. The love story between Matt & Francesca makes you angry, breaks your heart, puts it back together....and then stops it by the last words. I can't wait for the next book in the Lords of The Commission series!
Not much better than the first book in the duet. Again, Matt doesn't speak or let Francesca in on anything. He decides what's best for her, what path needs to be picked, etc. Which as strong as she proved herself to be in this book, was a dumba** decision. Francesca grew some in this book, and then threw it all away by giving in to Matt over and over again. I wanted to slap her. So stupid. She could have been so much better. And deserved better. The plot that showed up was not worth the crap. And as much as I want to read Alison's book, this book did not set up her story. It was horribly written and given tropes that should have been avoided. Matt didn't grow, neither did Francesca in the end. Liam and Jamie are the best couple. And I'm sure Alison would be great. I just can't take more of Matt and Francesca
Let’s start by saying there were going to be things that happened with Matt and Francesca based off of the cliffhanger left in the last book! We all knew what Matt was doing and why he did it. When you are trying to fight for your wife, things happen! Francesca is a beast of a woman! I would not be able to survive through what she did!
This is for Stephanie Amaral, and Stephanie Amaral only.. how dare you rip my heart to pieces only to put it back together again😭 From the teasers this author has been posting from the second half of the duet I knew that Matt and Francesca journey would definitely have some bumps in the road especially because of the cliffhanger of this book but it was an absolute emotional rollercoaster. At times I couldn’t see through my tears, so definitely get your tissues ready.
My heart absolutely broke for Fran several times throughout this book and while us the readers knew why Matt did what he did, he did it because he loved and adored his wife and only wanted her to have it all in life, it still broke me all the same💔 Don’t be put off by this as everything in this book happens for a reason and our characters have a happily for now at the end of the duet. And while I say happily for now it is because there are definitely future books to come from side characters in which no doubt Fran and Matt will appear in just like Jamie and Liam from book one.
Fran is definitely one of the most strongest women, I can say for sure because I would have crumbled several times if I was in her situation. Siri play my tears ricochet by Taylor Swift.🥺
Towards the end of the first half of the duet the love between these characters is so evident and raw but in this book that love is bursting from the pages.
Of course I want to keep this entire review spoiler free as I don’t want to ruin the reading experience but prepare yourself for so many highs and lows and of course jaw dropping plot twists. I also loved how the author has set up the further books that are to come in this series, which makes me very excited to dive back into this world in the near future.
Thank you so much to the author who provided this e-arc for my honest thoughts.💭
ARC Review (very honoured to have been selected for this) torn by Honor by @Author Stephanie Amaral
*Mafia Romance *Arranged Marriage *Badass MMC (falls first hard) *beyond Amazing Badass FMC ( best FMC I've read) *Mafia Princess/Queen *Touch her and ☠️ (my favourite trope) *amazing plots with spice🌶️🌶️🌶️
just finished the second book "Torn by Honour" of this duet by the amazingly talented Stephanie Amaral (she really knows how to write a good Mafia Romance. Before you read this need to read Bound by deception as this is the second book and it ended on a cliffhanger which was 🤯. This new book did not disappoint at all it was like being on the best fastest scariest rollercoaster this book took me on a crazy journey, anticipation, happy, crying, laughing (the bullet and Bluetooth line had me crying with laughter), this is for sure an emotional rollercoaster that I found very hard to put down, it was amazing from start to finish loved following the main MMC and the FMC Francesca who is a total badass and just love how she knows what she wants and nothing will stop her and was amazingly written and also loved how all characters brought in got a bit of their back story, I just loved this book and the duet and desperately need the next one cannot wait.
if you love Mafia Romance this is definitely for you I cannot recommend this enough it's amazing you will love it 😍🤯💗
The second book in this duology, I was impatiently waiting to be able to read it… I got to be an arc reader for this book and holy moly, it was worth the wait.
If you’re new to this, go read savage temptation and bound by deception first, I promise you, you won’t regret it.
Now, this book.. plot twists, spice and very good story lines. I was scared to read on at some points in the book - but at the same time HAD to keep reading because I had to know what was gonna happen. I felt sad, outraged, happy, excited and soooo many more emotions while reading this. This woman is an evil genius and I can’t wait to see what else she has in store for us!!
I have impatiently been waiting for the release of Torn by Honor by Stephanie Amaral, the second book of the Lords of the Commission, New York duet, book one of the duet being Bound by Deception. If you haven't read it yet, please do.
After the cliffhanger in Bound by Deception I thought my heart would be repaired, but oh no, Stephanie had to put it through the wringer again!!
🩶 Enemies to lovers 🩶 Arranged Mafia marriage 🩶 Strong badass FMC 🩶 He falls hard MMC 🩶 Suspense and Angst ridden plot 🩶 Touch her and 💀 🩶 Spicy spice 🥵🔥❤️🔥
All I can say, is that from the very first chapter I was again addicted to Francesca and Matt's story. What a whirlwind. I could hardly put this book down. I was totally captivated by the angst, suspense and back and forth between the characters.
I love the author's style of writing and the angst and suspense in this story had me totally addicted. The tension from the twists and turns steamrolled off the pages and their lusty spicy scenes left me absolutely breathless 🥵🥵
If you like dual POV, fast paced, angst and suspense filled, action packed dramatic and lust filled mafia romance, don't hesitate to pick up this book and slide between its lustrous pages 🖤🥀❤️🔥🫶
Hey everybody, welcome back to another audiobook review today. We are talking about book three in the Lord of the commissions series torn by honor. This is the final book in the duet for Mateo and Francesca story book one was booked two of the Lords of the commission series bound by deception. This story picks up right after the surprise ending from bound by deception, and the story is absolutely freaking amazing just like book two! We all know that absolutely love a dark mafia romance, so I ate this book absolutely up. I loved Francesca a lot more in this book than I did bound by deception. Angelina Rocca did an amazing job again with the narration for this character. She is absolutely phenomenal and everything I’ve gotten to listen to her in. Joe did just a fantastic job as Mateo in the story, when he is in a dark mafia romance story, he is otherworldly with his narration as well. This entire series whenever I’ve listened to it, I cannot put it down. Stephanie Amaral has done an absolutely phenomenal job writing this series and I cannot wait for the remainder of the series to come out on audio. Francesca & Mateo story has definitely become one of my favorite in the dark mafia romance genre, I might be a little bias about it because Angelina Rocca and Joe Arden are two of my favorite narrators, but the story is just so freaking good!
After the cliffhanger of the last book, I was ready to dive right back into this story. I was not disappointed, I had a feeling the story might start the way it did, but I was still relieved to read it for myself! This book was a rollercoaster of emotions with constant twists and turns. We were promised a hea, but Fran and Matt sure had their work cut out to get there. With plenty of spice along the way 🥵 Stephanie keeps us on our toes with this story, and then when you're at the end and all happy, she throws in another cliffhanger ending. I'm excited to read the next book, I've got a feeling I'm going to fall in love with Max even more than I already am! Thank you to Stephanie for the arc of this book for my honest review.
Stephanie back at it again with a banger. I loved this book, the series really. I cannot wait for the next one, as I always say. The cliffhanger for this one though…😬, nail bitter of course. The love story between Francesca and Matt is just divine. They are each other’s ride or die. I love me a Matteo Battaglia 🤤.
I love that Stephanie’s book have a good amount of plot plus spice. It really balances out the book so you get the whole story. I definitely had a few moments where I wanted to slap Matt for his choices. Francesca is just a bada*** FMC all around.
Thank you to the author, Stephanie, for allowing me to review this book in advance.
This book! I love a good maffia book, and plot twists as well. Savage Temptation and Bound by Deception were so good and this book did not dissapoint. It is a romance book, but Stephanie has created a world you want to stay in. The characters are great, and the plot is full of suspense. At one point I bolted of the sofa with my book in hand because I did not see a twist comming. If you have not read this series I cannot reccomend it enough!
Now I have to retreat and impantiently wait for the next book in the series.
This is the third ARC review I have done for Stephanie and as always, it was flawless!
The first book really took you for a ride with your emotions that ended with your heart in your mouth and this one certainly kept on the same theme. In the few hours it took me to read this, I laughed, I cried, my heart was racing and I couldn’t put it down!
Matt & Frans story really took a turn in this book and absolutely blindsided me with some of the things that happened! But when you are that perfect for each other, nothing will get in their way!
I hope the third book is already being written because with an ending like that, I can’t wait to know what happens next!! 💛
Stephanie Amaral knows how to write a cliffhanger! I'm so glad the next book is out already because I'm dying to know what's next. Matteo and Francesca are the power couple the mafia needs. Alison is one of my favorite standout minor characters, little sister and total badass. This was fabulous, I was angry, crushed, relieved, happy, all the feels and now I need more.
Stephanie Amaral, you've done it again! "Torn By Honor" gripped me from start to finish, weaving a tale of love, loss, and undeniable strength.
In this rollercoaster of emotions, Matt and Francesca's journey is beautifully raw and achingly real. Each page stirred my soul, and I was left both shattered and hopeful, eagerly awaiting the next twist.
Your mastery in portraying deep, complex emotions and relationships is truly remarkable, turning each reading session into a visceral experience.
Thank you for making us feel every heartbreak and triumph right along with Fran and Matteo.
Fair warning: you'll need tissues by your side and perhaps a comforting playlist to get through the highs and lows of this intense story!
I had the absolute privilege to have been given a free ARC of this book. This review base on reaction and opinion to this book! 5 ⭐️ 4.5 🌶️
I love these two in this book! A must read with the other books in the series. This one by far was my favorite. The lies, deception, love, all of it was truly amazingly written. I could feel myself on the edge of my seat in anticipation for the next page as I read it.
Torn by Honor was a really good read! Stephanie Amara pulled me in with the characters right away. They’re messy in the best way, and the drama, tension, and chemistry kept me hooked from start to finish.
I liked the mix of romance and deeper emotional stuff, and the story moved at a nice pace. There were a couple spots where I wanted just a little more detail, but overall it didn’t take away from how much I enjoyed it.
What an amazing book. The ups the downs the plot twist n turns. She had me on one he'll of a Rollercoaster ride. But I'm here for it 100% if you haven't read bound or savage temptation go grab those then go right into torn by honor 110% worth it all!
Omg Stephanie that was amazing I loved every single bit of it the twists and the turns where amazing. I couldn't put it down you nearly had me in tears
I love this series and if you want a slightly lighter mafia romance this series is for you.
We left book 2 on a cliffhanger so I desperately needed to get stuck into this book to find out what happened.
This book centers around Matt & Francesca and their revenge for what happened in book 2, I loved how Francessca ran the organization while Matt was away with no s**ts given and was a proper boss b**ch.
The drama of their relationship was addictive and what Matt does for Francessca was what we expect from our Mafia men.
Matt and Francesca’s story has come full circle. It was full of deception and lies. Matt hated himself for what he has done but everything he has done has been for Francesca’s benefit. They were both able to be open and raw. They were strong for everyone else but each other.
How can we be left with that ending and again. We have been through so much with this book and the others. It’s leaving us wanting the next ones in the Battaglia series.
Thank you Stephanie Amaral for another brilliantly written book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Torn by Honor is a gripping and emotional follow-up that absolutely must be read after Bound by Deception—and it’s worth every page.
Francesca’s story pulled me in immediately. She’s a mafia princess raised to believe her only purpose is to serve her family’s interests, but she refuses to lose herself again. When she’s forced into a marriage she didn’t choose—only to discover the groom has been switched at the altar—her world turns upside down. The fury, the fear, and the spark of unexpected attraction all hit so perfectly.
Matteo Battaglia is intense, calculated, and determined to claim his place as the future Don. He sees marriage as one final move in his rise to power…until Francesca becomes more than just a piece on the board. Their enemies-to-lovers tension is addictive, and the chemistry—paired with the dual POV and open-door scenes—makes the emotional payoff even stronger.
This book has the darker elements you expect from a mafia romance, but it leans toward the lighter side, focusing more on character depth, loyalty, family expectations, and a love that grows in the most unlikely circumstances. By the end, their hard-won HEA feels absolutely earned.
A fantastic addition to the Lords of the Commission – New York series. If you enjoy forced marriage, powerful leads clashing for control, and a romance built on tension and slow trust, this one is a must-read.
Francesca’s character shines in this book, and Angelina Rocca brings her to life perfectly. Her performance captures every layer of Francesca—her strength, her pain, her defiance, and the deep longing she tries so hard to bury. Angelina’s narration makes you feel every moment of Francesca’s journey, from being swapped into a marriage she didn’t choose to fighting for her own voice in a world ruled by powerful men.
On the other side, Joe Arden is phenomenal as Matt (Matteo). He gives Matteo the perfect combination of intensity, control, and vulnerability. Joe portrays him as the ruthless future Don who believes marriage is just another strategic move—until Francesca forces him to see her, and himself, differently. Their verbal sparring, tension, and slow-burn connection come alive through his performance.
Together, Rocca and Arden have outstanding chemistry. Their dual narration elevates the forced marriage and enemies-to-lovers dynamic, making every argument, every soft moment, and every slip of emotion feel electric.
✨️ARC Review ✨️ Torn by Honor By Author Stephanie Amaral Rating ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ Spice 🌶🌶🌶🌶
Book Overview Francesca
While men made war, women were expected to keep the peace.
I had loved a man before. I swore that would never happen again.
So marrying for the sake of the family wasn’t the worst thing.
That’s what I thought.
I was a mafia princess afterall and serving as a trading item was my only role in this world ruled by men.
But the man waiting for me at the altar, wasn’t the one who my uncle had given me to.
The future Don of the New York famiglia had taken his brother’s place in this arrangement. Even though a part of me fluttered at the thought, the other part was enraged that they would toss me around like I was nothing.
It stung that my future husband had so little respect for me when, despite having sworn off love, all I wanted was for him to look at me as more than an item off his list.
Matteo Battaglia would stop at nothing to get what he wanted, and that seat in The Commission would be his even if my life and my heart was the demanded sacrifice. He needed to marry to finally take his place. I was the last piece to his ascension.
if you like ..... Mafia romance Enemies to Lovers Morally Grey MMC Arranged marriage Fiesty mafia princess Betrayal Cliffhanger Touch Her and Die Plot Twists Emotional Roller coaster Spice that is spicing
Then this book is for you!!!!
Every time I read one of Stephanie Amaral's books, I'm drawn in immediately, The twist had my head spinning. It never fails to amaze me how excited I get with this series and how much I actually shout at these books. My favourite thing to shout usually is ... wtf steph why lol 😆
Torn by Honor is the second book in a duet, written in dual POV with open door steamy scenes. The completed duet can be read as an interconnected stand-alone romance novel that ends on a cliffhanger.
I highly recommend reading savage temptation Bound by deception Torn by honor
These books are so amazing and I have been fully invested in each and every one. Every time steph ends with a cliffhanger, I immediately need the next book as the twists give me whip lash, and the characters are just so badass yet loveable.
The spice is spicing in this book 🥵🥵🥵🥵 all that tention 🥵🥵🥵🥵 im so here for it. These books might be light mafia, but they pack one hell of a punch.
These are available on ku, and I highly recommend starting with savage temptations you wouldn't be disappointed 😉
I never thought of myself as a mafia romance reader. This series has me in a chokehold!!! After the last book’s cliffhanger, I immediately started this one as soon as I got my hands on it.
In this captivating spicy mafia romance, the tension between power and passion is as palpable as the danger lurking in the shadows. The story follows the intense relationship between two strong-willed characters—an enigmatic mafia Don and his fierce, determined wife.
The narrative kicks off with the family trying to find the killer of their grandfather. When the Matt’s wife is kidnapped, the stakes skyrocket, forcing our protagonists to work together despite their mutual distrust. As they delve deeper into the mystery, each clue uncovers not just the dark underbelly of the mafia but also hidden truths about each other’s pasts, leading to explosive confrontations.
The author masterfully balances the steamy romance with a plot full of twists and turns. The chemistry between the characters is electric, and their banter is sharp, blending perfectly with the suspenseful atmosphere of the story. Each intimate moment is charged with emotion, reflecting the complexities of their relationship—one that is as much about power dynamics as it is about vulnerability and trust.
What sets this book apart from other mafia romances is its intricate mystery. The notes and the kidnapping are not just plot devices; they are central to the narrative, driving the characters to question everything they thought they knew about loyalty, love, and revenge. The final revelation is both shocking and satisfying, tying together the romance and the mystery in a way that leaves the reader thoroughly satisfied.
This book is a must-read for fans of the mafia romance genre who crave a story with equal parts heat and intrigue. It’s a rollercoaster of emotions, packed with suspenseful moments, heart-stopping romance, and a mystery that keeps you guessing until the very end.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Torn by Honor is the second part of the Deception Duet by Stephanie Amaral and is part of the overall Lords of the Commission series. It’s the third full length novel, and fourth book total, including the prequel novella. This series is a mafia romance which contains depictions of violence, gore and open door spice with protective and obsessive MMCs and sassy and strong FMCs, there’s a perfect power balance between the characters.
This book starts off immediately where Bound By Deception leaves off and brings some answers to the absolutely gut-wrenching cliffhanger that was left in the previous book. Matt and Francesca are on top form and we see them come together, better, stronger, hotter as they seek revenge for the wrongs done to their family.
The story is very well written as are the characters and what I loved about this book was, it was easy to jump right back into the world from the get-go because I just love it so much. I loved seeing Matt show more of a vulnerable side in this book, his anger was justified but his vulnerability made him more human and added further dimension to his character. Francesca grew in sassiness and she came into her own, showing that women are just as capable if not more capable at running the show as the men do.
Without spoiling, there are times where I wanted to absolutely launch the book across the room when Matt made some of his decisions but when we realise why he did it, it was very easy to forgive him. He put his wife and her dreams above his and I think that’s a true testament to his actual power. A powerful man, does not fear or stifle a powerful woman.
As the story progresses, there was a plot twist I never saw coming and my jaw hit the floor and I was like okay surely this was enough twists and turns and now everyone will be fine right? Wrong. As well as writing amazing mafia dons and their queens, Stephanie knows how to leave you begging for more by putting in an absolutely crazy cliffhanger that will be answered in the next book.
All in all, this book was a five star read for me as I love this world and their characters and I was so happy to get back into it. If spicy, open door mafia romance that isn’t all sunshine and rainbows then this series is for you. I laughed, I cried, I got angry and that’s one of the most powerful things a writer can do: make you feel their characters emotions and Stephanie does this for me every single time.
Wow. 4.3 stars for me ! This second book is seriously where the story got going. People say this is a lighter mafia read but I don’t agree. The mafia involvement in this book is heavy, not only the guns and violence but the politics too. You can really immerse yourself in this world (unlike some other mafia books I’ve read). The plot, characters and pace of the story were all 5 🌟. And these books are definitely ones I would re read. The only downside was sometimes the writing was slightly cringey. A lot of unnecessary explanation marks which made the writing seem slightly immature. If you love this and want to read something similar from a different author - I would recommend blood of my monster trilogy by rina kent. Matteo reminded me slightly of kirill
I loved Matteos & Francesca’s story. It was a complete rollercoaster & I had to restrain myself from throwing my kindle on the floor through part of this book. Much to every other reviewers discretion - I can see why Matt did what he did and it really added to the story. I think because we get dual POV we already know frans thoughts and feeling towards him throughout, but with the arranged marriage (& her feelings towards being forced into it at the beginning) he clearly thought she would prefer to have her career in the mafia than stay married and couldn’t tell her as it would jeopardise the plan. Alas I know, he took away her choice again but he was so obviously blinded by his love to her he thought he was making the right choice. What is a mafia man if not toxic ?!
1) It was clear as day to me the notes were coming from the father. 2) I wanted Fran to shoot that stupid misogynistic Don in his knee to prove she wasn’t afraid of blood in that meeting (it would have been bad ass) 3) the ending felt slightly rushed - how could fran rule Detroit when she was living in New York? & I wanted an epilogue with them being parents. 4) I wish either matteo or fran were the ones to shoot the yukiza guy
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Torn by Honor picks up seamlessly from the previous instalment, Bound By Deception. The narrative plunges readers into a world of revenge and redemption, with Matt and Francesca at the heart of it all. Their chemistry and evolution are palpable as they navigate the challenges that threaten their family, with Matt's vulnerability adding layers to his character and Francesca's newfound assertiveness proving that she's more than capable of holding her own. The author skilfully crafts a tale that keeps readers on the edge of their seats, delivering unexpected plot twists that leave them reeling. The emotional depth and intricate dynamics make the book a compelling read, culminating in a cliff-hanger that ensures anticipation for the next instalment. Amaral’s ability to blend intense action with emotional resonance, makes this a must-read for fans of thrilling, character-driven narratives. This audiobook's casting truly elevates the narrative, with Angelina Rocca and Joe Arden delivering exceptional performances that bring depth and authenticity to the characters. Rocca's portrayal of Francesca is nothing short of mesmerising she captures a character who is not only surviving but flourishing in a patriarchal society. Her performance is a masterclass in embodying charisma and defiance, making Francesca a force to be reckoned with. Meanwhile, Joe Arden delivers a compelling portrayal of Matteo, expertly conveying his emotional turmoil. Arden captures the complexity of Matteo’s character, from his simmering rage and wounded pride to his desperate need for control. Together, Rocca and Arden transform the listening experience into an absorbing journey, making the audiobook a standout production.
Wow. Wow. Wow. When I say I loved this book! I devoured it and I was not ready for it to be over! Torn by Honor is the 3rd book in this series and follows on from the cliff hanger ending of Bound by Deception with Matteo and Francesca’s story. After previous events, Matt is thirsty for blood and he won’t rest until he seeks retribution for what went down. Fran holds down the fort in his extended absence while he is searching for the one man he wants revenge on most of all. But she misses him a lot. A trip home helps Matt to see that nothing is more important to him than his wife’s happiness. Not even the havoc he is determined to rain down on those who have wronged him. Back together, everything is perfect, until Matt is presented with an opportunity that will change everything! What ensues is heart break, destruction, chaos and an epic story that kept me guessing the whole way through, and left me desperate for more. Matt has got to be one of the hottest MMC’s of all time. He is powerful and rules his kingdom with an iron fist, but for his woman and his family he melts. Fran has a bite to match her bark and I love that she isn’t afraid to stand up to Matt. The chemistry and spice between these two is pure fire. I’m gutted it’s over and I have to wait for the next book. I received this one as an arc so feel lucky to have gotten my hands on it a few days early! *immediately signs up to be arc on the next one too. I cannot wait to read Allison’s story! The progression and evolution of this authors writing style throughout this series has been amazing to see. They just keep getting better, so I know book 4 will not disappoint !
Stephanie Amaral is absolutely playing mind games with us, and I’m convinced she enjoys watching readers crumble. Last book she told me to “trust the process,” and like a fool, I did. Only for her to betray me AGAIN. Stephanie… are you gaslighting me? Because it’s working.
I spent this entire book furious—at the characters, at the choices, at how deeply this story cut into me. Matteo Battaglia? Sir. I was screaming. You insufferable, stubborn man. Francesca’s dream is not for you to be the boss—so how dare you make decisions without her? That’s literally the thing that broke her in the last book, and yet here you are again, doing… this. The way his judgment unraveled had me ready to throw my headphones across the room.
And Francesca—my queen. I kept thinking, why aren’t you fighting harder? where’s the fire? But then she showed exactly who she is: a woman who refuses to give the man who shattered her the satisfaction of seeing the damage. Her strength is quieter here, but sharper. Controlled. Deadly.
And don’t think their separation means less spice. Oh no. The forbidden tension makes it even hotter. Their chemistry crackles off the page—explosive, magnetic, inevitable.
The audiobook performance? Flawless. Angelina Rocca’s Francesca is commanding, powerful, dripping charisma and defiance. She embodies a woman surviving a world built by men and refusing to bend. Joe Arden nails Matteo’s unraveling—his rage, his pride, his fear, his need to maintain control while everything he loves slips through his fingers. It’s immaculate.
And that ending? Stephanie Amaral, ma’am, I know I’m supposed to trust the process… but I think I need a new pair of headphones and possibly a support group. I am so upset. And yet, I’ll be seated the second the next audiobook drops, ready for you to rip out my heart and stomp on it again because apparently I’m a glutton for punishment and Stephanie Amaral is my madam.
This duet is emotional devastation wrapped in mafia politics, forced marriage tension, and enemies-to-lovers fire—with just enough softness to keep you hooked and just enough chaos to ruin you.
⭐️🌟✨ARC Review⭐️🌟✨ Spoilers:: Characters:: Francesca& Matt Genre(s)/Trope(s):: Mafia, Forced Proximity, Touch her & 💀, Arrange Marriage,He falls first, Dual POV, Suspence, E2L, Plot:: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Spice::🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ Character Development::⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Review: Torn by Honor is a thrilling and emotionally charged journey that masterfully blends elements of mafia romance with intense drama and steamy encounters. From the very first page, readers are plunged into a whirlwind of twists and turns that keep the narrative engaging and unpredictable. The story features an arranged marriage within the mafia world, and the tension is palpable. The hero’s journey is compelling, as he falls deeply and irrevocably for the heroine—a testament to the author’s ability to craft a deeply affecting romance. The heroine herself is a standout character; her strength and resilience are matched only by her fierce protectiveness, adding a dynamic edge to the narrative. The romance is decidedly passionate, and the book does not shy away from exploring this with vivid intensity. The chemistry between the leads is electric, characterized by moments that are both spicy and emotionally resonant. The author's skillful portrayal of the hero’s possessiveness and the heroine’s unyielding spirit drives the narrative forward, culminating in a satisfying conclusion to their story. Having thoroughly enjoyed this book, I am eager to explore future works by the author. This novel has set a high bar with its engaging plot and rich character development, ensuring that readers will look forward to what comes next.
After reading the first book in the duet an it ending on a cliff hanger - Matt & Francesca’s journey didn’t disappoint in book 2!!
I gobbled this up in one sitting. I was totally captivated by the angst, suspense and back and forth between the characters, the banter was top tier. It had me hooked from the 1st page to the final page.
The plot and story development was addictive, it took you on a ride and made you emotionally live through the characters. There was many times you could throw the kindle at the wall but then Stephanie worked her magic and made you fall in love with the characters all over again! Did Matt need his own punishment at times - absolutely! But did he worship the ground Francesca walk on and show her how far a husband would go for his wife, most definitely!!! Torn by Honor finishes off this duet perfectly!
Stephanie is an upcoming mafia author and I can tell you now she will be one to WATCH!!!! Her writing is chefs kiss 🫶🏼 Pure magic!! 😍✨