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Underbelly Enchanted #2
Diamond in the Rough
He’s New York’s deadliest enforcer. But I’m the villain in this story.
Micah Malone is the son of a notoriously cruel, and thankfully dead, mafia boss.
Now he’s the organization’s enforcer, and right hand to his brother’s reign.
He’s the broadest of five boys.
The quietest.
And the deadliest.
Yet, even with his blade pressed to my throat, he’s still the only man who makes me feel alive
It’s toxic and dangerous to pursue a relationship with him.
I know better.
But Micah is like a flame, burning bright in the night. And I’m more scared of the dark, than of the monsters who hide amongst the shadows.
I won’t count on surviving the city’s most ruthless assassin. Not once he decides my time is up. But I’m confident any evening spent in his bed will be worth it.
Diamond In The Rough is the second spicy installment in the Underbelly Enchanted series and includes dark mafia themes, groveling, on page t0rture, open door filth, touch her and... vibes, and an ending that’ll leave you breathless.
This is love in a deadly world—gritty, f0rbidden, and ultimately, with an expiry date.
Each book in this series can be read as a standalone.
Micah Malone is the son of a notoriously cruel, and thankfully dead, mafia boss.
Now he’s the organization’s enforcer, and right hand to his brother’s reign.
He’s the broadest of five boys.
The quietest.
And the deadliest.
Yet, even with his blade pressed to my throat, he’s still the only man who makes me feel alive
It’s toxic and dangerous to pursue a relationship with him.
I know better.
But Micah is like a flame, burning bright in the night. And I’m more scared of the dark, than of the monsters who hide amongst the shadows.
I won’t count on surviving the city’s most ruthless assassin. Not once he decides my time is up. But I’m confident any evening spent in his bed will be worth it.
Diamond In The Rough is the second spicy installment in the Underbelly Enchanted series and includes dark mafia themes, groveling, on page t0rture, open door filth, touch her and... vibes, and an ending that’ll leave you breathless.
This is love in a deadly world—gritty, f0rbidden, and ultimately, with an expiry date.
Each book in this series can be read as a standalone.
384 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 10, 2024
About the author
Emilia Finn
114 books1,616 followersEmilia Finn is an Amazon Top 20 bestselling, Australia-based author with more than 55 books written and published to date.
She's a mom, a coffee addict, a collector of quirky coffee mugs, and before she had kids, she was a real-life full-contact fighter.
Her experience on the fight circuits helped her pen her first ever book—Finding Home—featuring a world champion MMA fighter Bobby Kincaid, and his leading lady and equal in every way, Kit Reilly. What was only supposed to be a once off experience instead turned into a career for Emilia, a thriving empire, and a daily grind she never wants to be rescued from.
Join Emilia's mailing list for exclusive material and new release alerts.
Website➜ https://www.emiliafinn.com
She's a mom, a coffee addict, a collector of quirky coffee mugs, and before she had kids, she was a real-life full-contact fighter.
Her experience on the fight circuits helped her pen her first ever book—Finding Home—featuring a world champion MMA fighter Bobby Kincaid, and his leading lady and equal in every way, Kit Reilly. What was only supposed to be a once off experience instead turned into a career for Emilia, a thriving empire, and a daily grind she never wants to be rescued from.
Join Emilia's mailing list for exclusive material and new release alerts.
Website➜ https://www.emiliafinn.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
May 27, 2024
3.5 stars actually, but we’re gonna round it up to the nearest one🤫
The book is quite better compared to many overhyped ones out there.
It’s a slight slow burn with a good buildup and especially the bond between Felix and Micah, it was adorable!
The banter over the plants had me cracking up every time 😭😂
“I have never so willingly danced with death and thought it pretty.”
He gardens? That’s like soo hot tbh
Being a history junkie myself, i instantly was in love with the details of historical possessions in this book, the way everything had a whole story to them
“My heart comes to a painful stop. “She cried?””
“He thinks I have pretty eyes?”
WTF WAS THAT PLOT TWIST?
I HATE IT
WHY’D I NEVER SAW THAT COMING
UGGHHHH
I’m really not into the betrayal trope😭
Ignore the paragraph up ahead, because i still liked Tiia, she was witty and smart but for a second i really was annoyed with her character!
(Unpopular opinion but she really started to annoy me for a second when the truth came out, i mean i get that Micah’s mafia but he still has a good heart and he loved her but acting like expecting for him to just forgive and forget was stupid, he’s the mafia after all and only she knew the entire truth, so unless she wasn’t telling him shit, he couldn’t really do much to help)
The book is quite better compared to many overhyped ones out there.
It’s a slight slow burn with a good buildup and especially the bond between Felix and Micah, it was adorable!
The banter over the plants had me cracking up every time 😭😂
“I have never so willingly danced with death and thought it pretty.”
He gardens? That’s like soo hot tbh
Being a history junkie myself, i instantly was in love with the details of historical possessions in this book, the way everything had a whole story to them
“My heart comes to a painful stop. “She cried?””
“He thinks I have pretty eyes?”
WTF WAS THAT PLOT TWIST?
I HATE IT
WHY’D I NEVER SAW THAT COMING
UGGHHHH
I’m really not into the betrayal trope😭
Ignore the paragraph up ahead, because i still liked Tiia, she was witty and smart but for a second i really was annoyed with her character!
(Unpopular opinion but she really started to annoy me for a second when the truth came out, i mean i get that Micah’s mafia but he still has a good heart and he loved her but acting like expecting for him to just forgive and forget was stupid, he’s the mafia after all and only she knew the entire truth, so unless she wasn’t telling him shit, he couldn’t really do much to help)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 2, 2025
Another fabulous read. Loved Micah and Tiia’s story. Now onto Tim and Aubree’s long awaiting story. I’m really excited for Cato’s story, whenever that may be.
May 17, 2024
A really intense, slow burn, well written mafia romance that's twisty, interesting and very spicy. It's part of an ongoing series, with backstory characters who've either had, or will eventually have, their own books. It can be read as a standalone re the romance and the story itself. It's always a good thing though, to read this author's books in publication order, as the world she's created will wrap around you and pull you in.
December 30, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Micah is the Enforcer for the NYC mafia. In his mind, his one and only purpose in life is to protect his brother, and mafia Dom, Felix. He doesn't let anything get in the way of protecting his family, and won't let anyone near them. Micah trust no one, so when he steps in to help a women in the ally beside his family's club, he is instantly cautious of her intentions. Tiia, caught his attention right away, and now Micah's like a dog with a bone, determined she's out to harm his family. He's a man that always listens to his instincts, and is never wrong. Micah keep inserting himself into Tiia's life as a way to keep an eye on her, yet she wants nothing to do with him. He's mean, aggressive, and doesn't take no for an answer. His persistence allows for Tiia to learn the real man under the mask, and she realizes that the Malone family is not the ruthless family it once was when Micahs father was the Dom.
Micah is the Enforcer for the NYC mafia. In his mind, his one and only purpose in life is to protect his brother, and mafia Dom, Felix. He doesn't let anything get in the way of protecting his family, and won't let anyone near them. Micah trust no one, so when he steps in to help a women in the ally beside his family's club, he is instantly cautious of her intentions. Tiia, caught his attention right away, and now Micah's like a dog with a bone, determined she's out to harm his family. He's a man that always listens to his instincts, and is never wrong. Micah keep inserting himself into Tiia's life as a way to keep an eye on her, yet she wants nothing to do with him. He's mean, aggressive, and doesn't take no for an answer. His persistence allows for Tiia to learn the real man under the mask, and she realizes that the Malone family is not the ruthless family it once was when Micahs father was the Dom.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 7, 2025
You Love Me Too Right?
I enjoyed Micah’s story although it took a while to develop and most of the story comes together in the last 20%.
Micah is the quiet, always controlled brother whose job is to protect his brother Felix at all costs. He never lets anyone in other than his family. Until he meets Tiia.
This flowed a lot better than Felix’s story and I enjoyed getting to know both Micah and Felix a little more.
My only critique is that Finn can sometimes crossover into the melodramatic and because she blurbs her stories as standalone she repeats the various backstories in each of her books. Is this a way to get her word count up? Maybe but it seems unnecessary when this is part of a lengthy interconnected series. It becomes white noise and more blah, blah, blah. Although I find it mildly frustrating it hasn’t spoiled this particular story.
I enjoyed Micah’s story although it took a while to develop and most of the story comes together in the last 20%.
Micah is the quiet, always controlled brother whose job is to protect his brother Felix at all costs. He never lets anyone in other than his family. Until he meets Tiia.
This flowed a lot better than Felix’s story and I enjoyed getting to know both Micah and Felix a little more.
My only critique is that Finn can sometimes crossover into the melodramatic and because she blurbs her stories as standalone she repeats the various backstories in each of her books. Is this a way to get her word count up? Maybe but it seems unnecessary when this is part of a lengthy interconnected series. It becomes white noise and more blah, blah, blah. Although I find it mildly frustrating it hasn’t spoiled this particular story.
September 16, 2024
If you read my review for 1st book I had a lot going on that week and struggled to push through but did.
Book 2 was one I saw on TikTok and really caught my eye. I’m SO glad I read book 1 cause you truly get the load down on the brothers and their father.
Book 2 was SO good. Great storyline and not a typical book of mafia world.
I had a spot for Micah for sure. Mafia man, family man and loved plants? 😍🩵😍
Really enjoyed the characters and so glad I stuck with it! Got book 3 marked for Jan!
Book 2 was one I saw on TikTok and really caught my eye. I’m SO glad I read book 1 cause you truly get the load down on the brothers and their father.
Book 2 was SO good. Great storyline and not a typical book of mafia world.
I had a spot for Micah for sure. Mafia man, family man and loved plants? 😍🩵😍
Really enjoyed the characters and so glad I stuck with it! Got book 3 marked for Jan!
December 23, 2024
I cannot get enough of the Malones! Quiet, plant-loving Micah Malone is so much more than I was hoping for. Once he meets the mysterious Tiia Hale, all bets are off. I did not want to stop reading until I hit that very last page. There are so many fantastic twists, crimes against plants that had me laughing and Micah cringing, and Micah and Tiia's chemistry together is absolute fire. Diamonds In The Rough had me in tears and had me laughing. I'll take more Malone brothers any time.
"If you choose to love me, Mo Chroi, then I want you to choose forever."
Audrey Obeyn and Dane Anderson narrate the audiobook edition of Diamonds in the Rough, and they knock Tiia, Micah, and Emilia Finn's entire cast of characters out of the park. I didn't think it was possible for Felix giving Micah a hard time to get any funnier, but hearing Dane voice Felix and Micah is hilarious. Plus, not only does Audrey do a spectacular job with Tiia, but her voice for Tiia's boss Jakeline is just... perfect. I highly, HIGHLY, recommend listening to Diamond in the Rough. "Excuse me. Hi."
"If you choose to love me, Mo Chroi, then I want you to choose forever."
Audrey Obeyn and Dane Anderson narrate the audiobook edition of Diamonds in the Rough, and they knock Tiia, Micah, and Emilia Finn's entire cast of characters out of the park. I didn't think it was possible for Felix giving Micah a hard time to get any funnier, but hearing Dane voice Felix and Micah is hilarious. Plus, not only does Audrey do a spectacular job with Tiia, but her voice for Tiia's boss Jakeline is just... perfect. I highly, HIGHLY, recommend listening to Diamond in the Rough. "Excuse me. Hi."
May 10, 2024
Micah is the Malone Enforcer but he is a soldier that struggles with humanity. When Micah is on edge he finds tending his garden helps calm him down (enforcer with a green thumb?) Right now Micah is struggling because he feels his senses are telling him that Tiia is out to cause harm to his family. Micah is feeling an attraction for that one special woman in your life. I thought it was so cute how Micah was buying antiques to get to know Tiia. Their banner was amusing and had me laughing at times. I enjoyed reaction of Micah’s horror of Tiia’s plant care - again the chemistry and banner. While Micah and Tina do their dance around each other - the mafia life doesn’t stop for anyone. Nor do the surprises because OMG that twist toward the end almost stopped my heart. Once everything settled the ending for this story was phenomenal. I LOVED THIS STORY!!
May 14, 2024
Wish the ending was better
I would’ve rated this higher if the last 20% was as good as the first 80%. But I really didn’t care for the ending. I wanted the circumstances to play out differently, including Micah doing a h*ll of a lot more to redeem himself for the things he said to Tiia. I understood why she would understand his trauma and forgive him. That was consistent for her character but I wanted the author to write it differently so that it wasn’t just a matter of her waking up in the hospital with him there and her reassuring him right away that she was willing to forgive him. I wanted to see him desperate and groveling and and really working for it in some way, shape or form. In my opinion, the way it played out was cheesy and cliche and completely underwhelming.
I would’ve rated this higher if the last 20% was as good as the first 80%. But I really didn’t care for the ending. I wanted the circumstances to play out differently, including Micah doing a h*ll of a lot more to redeem himself for the things he said to Tiia. I understood why she would understand his trauma and forgive him. That was consistent for her character but I wanted the author to write it differently so that it wasn’t just a matter of her waking up in the hospital with him there and her reassuring him right away that she was willing to forgive him. I wanted to see him desperate and groveling and and really working for it in some way, shape or form. In my opinion, the way it played out was cheesy and cliche and completely underwhelming.
September 22, 2025
Boring.
Cheesy, 50s sitcom dialogue - like the word "dame" used unironically. If you're a person who still regularly uses the word "slacks," then you might be fine with this.
Important plot point thrown in with zero build up ( I think? I started skimming but it seems like the reader was not let in on the important detail that Tiia is FBI, until we find out when the hero does in the third act. **this is not OK. It is bad writing and annoying.** (so is making up dumb spellings for simple names)
And this one bugs me for two reasons: on the one hand, everything about Micah's behavior and motivations were laughably unrealistic even for a romance novel mafia guy; he sounded like an Emo depressive while he chased her for her suspected danger to the family that no one was worried about except him. But worse was his very un-alpha mafia breakdown after being a little mean to her in the torture shed. It's dumb on a story level, and it's harmful to brain cells to have this guy melting down and equating a nipple squeeze to rape. And then a PSA about consent with two mobsters tripping out conversing over it. That was painful to read. It could have been an intense seen with him trying to torture her and failing - really being cruel emotionally, and then chef's kiss if he actually did non-consensually force her body to respond to him yet again. But instead, that happened. And then! After throwing in the FBI reveal out of nowhere and writing a half-assed torture attempt scene over the betrayal - Micah forgets all about being lied to for the entire book and this huge betrayal after finally coming to trust her after falling in love, after the whole premise for them getting involved was his distrust. And his entire focus shifts to not deserving her because he "raped" her, she's better off without him, and sees himself as the bad guy.
I don't think they ever answered the question of who narced on her to blow her identity. They did bring it up - they just didn't answer it.
Micah is a shit name for an alpha hero, too. On point for an Emo depressive though.
Cheesy, 50s sitcom dialogue - like the word "dame" used unironically. If you're a person who still regularly uses the word "slacks," then you might be fine with this.
Important plot point thrown in with zero build up ( I think? I started skimming but it seems like the reader was not let in on the important detail that Tiia is FBI, until we find out when the hero does in the third act. **this is not OK. It is bad writing and annoying.** (so is making up dumb spellings for simple names)
And this one bugs me for two reasons: on the one hand, everything about Micah's behavior and motivations were laughably unrealistic even for a romance novel mafia guy; he sounded like an Emo depressive while he chased her for her suspected danger to the family that no one was worried about except him. But worse was his very un-alpha mafia breakdown after being a little mean to her in the torture shed. It's dumb on a story level, and it's harmful to brain cells to have this guy melting down and equating a nipple squeeze to rape. And then a PSA about consent with two mobsters tripping out conversing over it. That was painful to read. It could have been an intense seen with him trying to torture her and failing - really being cruel emotionally, and then chef's kiss if he actually did non-consensually force her body to respond to him yet again. But instead, that happened. And then! After throwing in the FBI reveal out of nowhere and writing a half-assed torture attempt scene over the betrayal - Micah forgets all about being lied to for the entire book and this huge betrayal after finally coming to trust her after falling in love, after the whole premise for them getting involved was his distrust. And his entire focus shifts to not deserving her because he "raped" her, she's better off without him, and sees himself as the bad guy.
I don't think they ever answered the question of who narced on her to blow her identity. They did bring it up - they just didn't answer it.
Micah is a shit name for an alpha hero, too. On point for an Emo depressive though.
May 11, 2024
Reviewed by Robyn for Saucy Reviews on Kinky Korner
Micah Malone and Tiia Hale make spitfire entertainment a proper art form in this second book in the Underbelly Enchanted series. Their barking at each other is intense but exciting, and at the same time, building up their mutual physical allure into a firehouse of gigantic proportions. It’s the waiting for everything to blow up that is exhilarating.
Tiia is a strong, secure character who isn’t afraid to stand up for herself. She’s a knockout with a sassy mouth and sexy body. Micah is the family protector and sees himself as being dedicated to protecting his family, especially Felix, his brother and head of the family. Both of these characters I liked pretty much straight away, quirks and all. 😁
With the new ‘bad’ guy, Wilkes, making himself a nuisance, things are getting very testy. The twists in the plot are fabulous and make for an even more enjoyable read
I love the fantastic descriptions of each setting, what happens in each scene, and what the characters are doing and thinking. For example, when Tiia thinks… “That wasn’t part of my plan. It sure as sh*t wasn’t on my bingo card for this year.” 🤣 Said with such a fun sense of humour.
The journey these two characters take you on is definitely entertaining, exciting and rewarding.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
Micah Malone and Tiia Hale make spitfire entertainment a proper art form in this second book in the Underbelly Enchanted series. Their barking at each other is intense but exciting, and at the same time, building up their mutual physical allure into a firehouse of gigantic proportions. It’s the waiting for everything to blow up that is exhilarating.
Tiia is a strong, secure character who isn’t afraid to stand up for herself. She’s a knockout with a sassy mouth and sexy body. Micah is the family protector and sees himself as being dedicated to protecting his family, especially Felix, his brother and head of the family. Both of these characters I liked pretty much straight away, quirks and all. 😁
With the new ‘bad’ guy, Wilkes, making himself a nuisance, things are getting very testy. The twists in the plot are fabulous and make for an even more enjoyable read
I love the fantastic descriptions of each setting, what happens in each scene, and what the characters are doing and thinking. For example, when Tiia thinks… “That wasn’t part of my plan. It sure as sh*t wasn’t on my bingo card for this year.” 🤣 Said with such a fun sense of humour.
The journey these two characters take you on is definitely entertaining, exciting and rewarding.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
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January 12, 2026
Diamond in the Rough is the intriguing journey of Micah Malone and Tiia Hale after they have a quick, chance encounter that leaves Micah fascinated with Tiia. He is the quiet and observant Malone brother working as the family enforcer and Tiia's love of history has landed her as an antiques dealer in town. On paper, these two go together like oil and water, but Micah feels an instant spark even if his intuition tells him that there may be another reason why Tiia landed in his life.
Micah and Tiia are both headstrong and their banter is a joy to watch. Micah is convinced Tiia is lying about her motives because of his Malone name, and Tiia is not instantly persuaded by Micah's good looks or charm. Despite this, they have an intense connection and their chemistry is hot and steamy! It is fabulous when they finally let their guards down with each other and become more vulnerable. Eventually, Micah proves how Malone men are tough, but they are big softies and huge protectors for their women. And wow, Emilia throws a huge, unexpected curveball and I could not wait to find out what would happen next!
🎧 Dane Anderson and Audrey Obeyn prove to be the perfect pair to narrate Micah and Tiia. They did an outstanding job in voicing the authors words so I could feel every emotion from beginning to end. I got so enraptured in the story that I almost forgot I was listening to Dane and Audrey and NOT listening to Micah and Tiia. Dane's accent for Micah and his brothers is absolutely perfect, and their ability to switch between multiple characters is chefs kiss!
Micah and Tiia are both headstrong and their banter is a joy to watch. Micah is convinced Tiia is lying about her motives because of his Malone name, and Tiia is not instantly persuaded by Micah's good looks or charm. Despite this, they have an intense connection and their chemistry is hot and steamy! It is fabulous when they finally let their guards down with each other and become more vulnerable. Eventually, Micah proves how Malone men are tough, but they are big softies and huge protectors for their women. And wow, Emilia throws a huge, unexpected curveball and I could not wait to find out what would happen next!
🎧 Dane Anderson and Audrey Obeyn prove to be the perfect pair to narrate Micah and Tiia. They did an outstanding job in voicing the authors words so I could feel every emotion from beginning to end. I got so enraptured in the story that I almost forgot I was listening to Dane and Audrey and NOT listening to Micah and Tiia. Dane's accent for Micah and his brothers is absolutely perfect, and their ability to switch between multiple characters is chefs kiss!
May 12, 2024
I wrote this review for Saucy Reviews on Kinky Korner.
Micah Malone and Tiia Hale make spitfire entertainment a proper art form in this second book in the Underbelly Enchanted series. Their barking at each other is intense but exciting, and at the same time, building up their mutual physical allure into a firehouse of gigantic proportions. It’s the waiting for everything to blow up that is exhilarating.
Tiia is a strong, secure character who isn’t afraid to stand up for herself. She’s a knockout with a sassy mouth and sexy body. Micah is the family protector and sees himself as being dedicated to protecting his family, especially Felix, his brother and head of the family. Both of these characters I liked pretty much straight away, quirks and all. 😁
With the new ‘bad’ guy, Wilkes, making himself a nuisance, things are getting very testy. The twists in the plot are fabulous and make for an even more enjoyable read
I love the fantastic descriptions of each setting, what happens in each scene, and what the characters are doing and thinking. For example, when Tiia thinks… “That wasn’t part of my plan. It sure as sh*t wasn’t on my bingo card for this year.” 🤣 Said with such a fun sense of humour.
The journey these two characters take you on is definitely entertaining, exciting and rewarding.
May 4, 2024
WOW. THIS BOOK WAS CERTAINLY A RIDE.
tropes -
•mafia romance
•he falls first
•he falls harder
•silent brooding mmc
•forbidden romance
This is the first book i've tried from Emilia Finn and i'm definitely coming back to her mafia universe again. The mmc is the silent enforcer while his big brother rules the mafia, that is just pretend, they are actually pretty close and they are just pretending to have a big bad gangster image. The way from the 1st chapter the mmc goes "she's suspicious" "she's after us" to the fmc 😃. I was like this dude has major trust issue but HOLYSHIT 🤡 THAT PLOT TWIST. I'M GOING TO LEAVE IT AT THAT.
MICAH. I AGREE. ALWAYS FOLLOW YOUR INSTINCT.
my favourite scene would be the way he gets jealous of her twin thinking its actually her lover and when she gets shot and it's all very dramatic outside the club and then he forgives her...
This was not a 5 ★ for me because the starting confused me a little. I was mostly like "WHAT'S GOING ON" it was a little chaotic. 😭 BUT I LOVED IT <3
Thankyou for providing me the ARC for this book author.
tropes -
•mafia romance
•he falls first
•he falls harder
•silent brooding mmc
•forbidden romance
This is the first book i've tried from Emilia Finn and i'm definitely coming back to her mafia universe again. The mmc is the silent enforcer while his big brother rules the mafia, that is just pretend, they are actually pretty close and they are just pretending to have a big bad gangster image. The way from the 1st chapter the mmc goes "she's suspicious" "she's after us" to the fmc 😃. I was like this dude has major trust issue but HOLYSHIT 🤡 THAT PLOT TWIST. I'M GOING TO LEAVE IT AT THAT.
MICAH. I AGREE. ALWAYS FOLLOW YOUR INSTINCT.
my favourite scene would be the way he gets jealous of her twin thinking its actually her lover and when she gets shot and it's all very dramatic outside the club and then he forgives her...
This was not a 5 ★ for me because the starting confused me a little. I was mostly like "WHAT'S GOING ON" it was a little chaotic. 😭 BUT I LOVED IT <3
Thankyou for providing me the ARC for this book author.
May 13, 2024
When Micah Malone meets Tiia so many questions are raised and suspicions are high, but there is something underneath that he can’t seem to wrap his head around, but he refuses to let anyone be a danger to his family. We know from the previous book the life that the Malone brothers have lived was an incredibly tough and traumatizing one that has left them with wounds that run deep, but from this they come out of it stronger and more importantly together. I loved that Micah was this fierce protector that deemed himself over the family and when he had a feeling that someone was off he is usually right, but maybe this time he is wrong. Tiia is one that doesn’t hesitate to stand toe to toe with him and has a backbone that is admirable, but at times something felt off to me about her too. I feel some things are explained greatly but others I’m certain. Overall, this story was another intense ride with lots of action, steam, and twists that will keep you glued wondering what will happen next and craving more of these Malone brothers.
June 28, 2024
Micah Malone shines bright like a diamond💎
Excellent second book in the Underbelly Enchanted mafia romance series about the Malone brothers whom we meet in the Mayet Justice series (Archer's books).
Micah is Felix's right-hand man, enforcer, and protector. Counting on his instincts to survive the lifestyle, he feels something is off about Tiia from the second he meets her. Despite his suspicion, and with Felix's encouragement, he lets his guard down and falls for the smart-mouth antique dealer. I loved the tension between the two and the heat when they finally succumbed to their mutual attraction.
As with all Emilia's books, a surprise twist leaves you guessing til the end. Micah is left alone with a broken heart.
The best part of this book is seeing the role reversal when Felix steps up when Micah's heart is broken and he becomes his brother's defender. I love seeing the development of all the Malones and their growing relationships through the series, and of course, their badass women that bring out the best (and worst) of them!!!
Excellent second book in the Underbelly Enchanted mafia romance series about the Malone brothers whom we meet in the Mayet Justice series (Archer's books).
Micah is Felix's right-hand man, enforcer, and protector. Counting on his instincts to survive the lifestyle, he feels something is off about Tiia from the second he meets her. Despite his suspicion, and with Felix's encouragement, he lets his guard down and falls for the smart-mouth antique dealer. I loved the tension between the two and the heat when they finally succumbed to their mutual attraction.
As with all Emilia's books, a surprise twist leaves you guessing til the end. Micah is left alone with a broken heart.
The best part of this book is seeing the role reversal when Felix steps up when Micah's heart is broken and he becomes his brother's defender. I love seeing the development of all the Malones and their growing relationships through the series, and of course, their badass women that bring out the best (and worst) of them!!!
May 6, 2024
Diamond in the Rough is book two in the Underbelly Enchanted Series.
Damn...this had some moments which left me mind blown. I went through a lot of this book liking Micah, but also thinking he was misinformed and needed to learn to trust people. But, by the end it gets you thinking, maybe you need to really trust your gut instincts. You just never know what is going to happen. He was obviously a morally grey person who had a lot of red flags, but he can also say "I told you so", so he has that going for him.
We get to see a lot of the family and delve deeper into the "mother mystery" which started in book one. And you can't just help but love Felix. He is the major comic relief in this series. We also see his caring side with how he interacts with Micah.
This one was really good and I can't wait to read the next book in the series. This'll be a hard one to beat.
Damn...this had some moments which left me mind blown. I went through a lot of this book liking Micah, but also thinking he was misinformed and needed to learn to trust people. But, by the end it gets you thinking, maybe you need to really trust your gut instincts. You just never know what is going to happen. He was obviously a morally grey person who had a lot of red flags, but he can also say "I told you so", so he has that going for him.
We get to see a lot of the family and delve deeper into the "mother mystery" which started in book one. And you can't just help but love Felix. He is the major comic relief in this series. We also see his caring side with how he interacts with Micah.
This one was really good and I can't wait to read the next book in the series. This'll be a hard one to beat.
May 12, 2024
Not my favorite, the story plot wrapped up too quickly, some questions were never answered, and the book ended just when things were getting really interesting. The set up was intriguing- the suspense was tight until the reveal- but then snap, it was over. I wanted much more from the plot and characters. I hope the next book gets us there.
Tropes:
* MF
* mafia romance
* opposite sides of the law
* interracial
* enforcer H - New York Irish mob
* family trauma/ evil father
* brother bond
* severe injury/ recovery
* paranoia
* antiques dealer h
* Hawaiian- hispanic heritage h
* hidden identity ?
* loyal friends
* new mafia rival / enemy
* H mistrusts/ lusts for h
* his knife to her throat/ "I will do anything to protect my family "
* surveils her
* love against the odds
* love or revenge?
* HFN
Tropes:
* MF
* mafia romance
* opposite sides of the law
* interracial
* enforcer H - New York Irish mob
* family trauma/ evil father
* brother bond
* severe injury/ recovery
* paranoia
* antiques dealer h
* Hawaiian- hispanic heritage h
* hidden identity ?
* loyal friends
* new mafia rival / enemy
* H mistrusts/ lusts for h
* his knife to her throat/ "I will do anything to protect my family "
* surveils her
* love against the odds
* love or revenge?
* HFN
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 1, 2024
1* for 1st 50%; 2*s for 2nd half which is the best part of this story. I had hoped this would be a compelling story, but it isn't because of the over the top, not realistic, writing as the author sets up the characters. No Mafia enforcer would ever act like Micah did, going after Tiia, accusing her of working for the enemy, etc. "Are your motivations toward my family harmful? Do you intend to hurt anyone I care about?" It's also laughable that Tiia would threaten him just because he was rude instead of being afraid; we later learn why. The author tells us that Micah is a gardener: He takes meticulous care of the rhododendrons before taking care of the agapanthus! good grief. Her friend thinks it's cute that a Mafia hitman has his eye on her. Mostly I don't like when the author tricks the reader.
August 6, 2024
An entertaining read
This is book two in the series. This popped up on my feed and based on the author’s blurb plus reading the reviews I decided to take a chance. I’m glad that I did because the characters are so entertaining and charming. The enforcer, Micah, has been created to take care of his brother Felix the leader of their clan. All the brothers have had difficult childhoods. Their evil father was recently taken out. Now the sons get to take over the business and do things their way. Felix bought a new night club CeCe’s. Micah was outside from jogging and he helps a young woman named Tiia who was being harassed by a jerk. Who is this beauty? Why is she outside of his club? The banter is well written for both Felix and his love and Micah and his Tiia. That is difficult to find. Read On!
This is book two in the series. This popped up on my feed and based on the author’s blurb plus reading the reviews I decided to take a chance. I’m glad that I did because the characters are so entertaining and charming. The enforcer, Micah, has been created to take care of his brother Felix the leader of their clan. All the brothers have had difficult childhoods. Their evil father was recently taken out. Now the sons get to take over the business and do things their way. Felix bought a new night club CeCe’s. Micah was outside from jogging and he helps a young woman named Tiia who was being harassed by a jerk. Who is this beauty? Why is she outside of his club? The banter is well written for both Felix and his love and Micah and his Tiia. That is difficult to find. Read On!
May 28, 2025
İlk kitaptan kesinlikle daha güzeldi. Bu kitapta hem Tiia'nın sevgisini hem de Micah'ın sevgisini hissettim. Seri ve evren biraz daha oturmuştu.
Micah, ailenin tetikçisi ve abisi Felix'e çok bağlı. Çocukluktan itibaren ailesini koruma göreviyle büyümüş birisi bu yüzden bu konu da oldukça titiz. Tiia, ise antika dükkanında tarihi eserler satan "sıradan" bir kadın.
Micah, onun ailesine sızmak için gönderilen bir casus olmasından şüphe ediyor. Tiia'yı araştırırken yakınlaşıyorlar. Bazı olaylar da eklenince hikaye oldukça akıcı bir şekilde ilerledi.
İkisi arasındaki iletişim çok tatlıydı. Micah'ın bitkilerle olan bağı ona yumuşak ve sevimli bir hava katıyordu. Karakter bakış açısıyla yazsa da karakterleri güvenilmez bir anlatıcı yapmasını hem sinir bozucu buldum hem de sevdim. Çünkü hiç beklenmedik ters köşe ve sürprizlerle şaşırtan bir etkisi oldu.
Micah, ailenin tetikçisi ve abisi Felix'e çok bağlı. Çocukluktan itibaren ailesini koruma göreviyle büyümüş birisi bu yüzden bu konu da oldukça titiz. Tiia, ise antika dükkanında tarihi eserler satan "sıradan" bir kadın.
Micah, onun ailesine sızmak için gönderilen bir casus olmasından şüphe ediyor. Tiia'yı araştırırken yakınlaşıyorlar. Bazı olaylar da eklenince hikaye oldukça akıcı bir şekilde ilerledi.
İkisi arasındaki iletişim çok tatlıydı. Micah'ın bitkilerle olan bağı ona yumuşak ve sevimli bir hava katıyordu. Karakter bakış açısıyla yazsa da karakterleri güvenilmez bir anlatıcı yapmasını hem sinir bozucu buldum hem de sevdim. Çünkü hiç beklenmedik ters köşe ve sürprizlerle şaşırtan bir etkisi oldu.
May 10, 2024
Diamond in the rough
by Emilia Finn
⭐️5
🌶️3
💧2
Aww Micah you sweet soul!! My heart broke for you! I didn’t see that twist coming! I was totally blindsided.
Can we take a moment to discuss the MMC’s weirdly hot obsession with plants?! I was in fits of laughter when he got passionately protective of them hahahaha
Great read! Had my on the edge of my seat! Very excited for Archer’s story!!
#diamonintherough #emiliafinn #audiobook #bookaholic #readingtime #bookshelf #instabooks #bookblogger #bookreview #booktok #reading #booklover #bookworm #booknerd #goodreads #aussiebookstagrammers #aussies #australianreaders #darkromance #reading #bookstagram #bookstagrammer #readersofinstagram #instabook #booksofinstagram #booksarelife #spicybooklover
by Emilia Finn
⭐️5
🌶️3
💧2
Aww Micah you sweet soul!! My heart broke for you! I didn’t see that twist coming! I was totally blindsided.
Can we take a moment to discuss the MMC’s weirdly hot obsession with plants?! I was in fits of laughter when he got passionately protective of them hahahaha
Great read! Had my on the edge of my seat! Very excited for Archer’s story!!
#diamonintherough #emiliafinn #audiobook #bookaholic #readingtime #bookshelf #instabooks #bookblogger #bookreview #booktok #reading #booklover #bookworm #booknerd #goodreads #aussiebookstagrammers #aussies #australianreaders #darkromance #reading #bookstagram #bookstagrammer #readersofinstagram #instabook #booksofinstagram #booksarelife #spicybooklover
May 13, 2024
In this spin-off series as with the Mayet series, I get distracted/annoyed by the style of "tough," "hard" dialogue the characters have. It feels somewhat unnatural, extremely forced. The leads moved extremely quickly, missing some of the steps for me. I understand why he was suspicious of her because she was definitely missing some backstory. I didn't understand her even when getting her perspective which was a little frustrating. Also I was annoyed by the tendency of romance to have different spellings of names. "Jakeline" was extremely distracting to me, felt like a weird white lady baby name. Emilia Finn has done better for me in the past. This one really missed the mark for me personally.
May 19, 2024
Wow.. just wow
This is probably one of the biggest roller coasters Emilia has ever taken us on. I knew I'd give my heart to Micah from what we've seen in the past what I wasn't prepared for was to love Tiia just as much and then absolutely hate them both before the story ended.
Another great look into the Malone Boys and the ways they are creating a better future than the one mapped out for them by their father (and I use that term SO loosely - Amazon doesn't like when I curse on reviews!)
If your on the fence with this one I'd suggest jumping in! We see more of the NYC Malone brothers and the changes their making and we see a little more of the underbelly they've worked and lived in their entire lives!
This is probably one of the biggest roller coasters Emilia has ever taken us on. I knew I'd give my heart to Micah from what we've seen in the past what I wasn't prepared for was to love Tiia just as much and then absolutely hate them both before the story ended.
Another great look into the Malone Boys and the ways they are creating a better future than the one mapped out for them by their father (and I use that term SO loosely - Amazon doesn't like when I curse on reviews!)
If your on the fence with this one I'd suggest jumping in! We see more of the NYC Malone brothers and the changes their making and we see a little more of the underbelly they've worked and lived in their entire lives!
June 16, 2024
Absolutely fantastic
Probably spoilers
I love this entire universe Emilia Finn has created, and Micah’s book is no exception. From the very beginning I was hooked. He’s so quiet in the other books, it was awesome to get to know him here.
(Spoilers!)
I’m not going to be specific about what happens, in case someone accidentally sees that doesn’t want spoilers, but to say I THREW my kindle across the room would not be an exaggeration. I was completely shocked and betrayed. I had to take a break from the book because I was livid. Obviously, romance so I knew there would be an HEA, but I’m still feeling that lingering betrayal.
I cried more than once reading this. Such a fantastic addition to the series!
Probably spoilers
I love this entire universe Emilia Finn has created, and Micah’s book is no exception. From the very beginning I was hooked. He’s so quiet in the other books, it was awesome to get to know him here.
(Spoilers!)
I’m not going to be specific about what happens, in case someone accidentally sees that doesn’t want spoilers, but to say I THREW my kindle across the room would not be an exaggeration. I was completely shocked and betrayed. I had to take a break from the book because I was livid. Obviously, romance so I knew there would be an HEA, but I’m still feeling that lingering betrayal.
I cried more than once reading this. Such a fantastic addition to the series!
March 25, 2025
3.5 stars. This story was a slow burn, but it was worth the wait once Tiia and Micah got together. Tiia is a smart and strong FMC who scored extra points when she gave Micah the payback he deserved. Micah was a frustrating MMC with his OTT paranoia, which is understandable considering his upbringing. However, his dedication to plants was hysterical. It was hard for me to get past his actions, which ultimately brought this rating down a notch.
I highly recommend reading the first book, The Tallest Tower, and the Mayet Justice series. Felix was more likable in the first book of the Underbelly Enchanted series. The other FMCs, Dr. Minka Mayet and Christabelle Cannon, will not disappoint you!
I highly recommend reading the first book, The Tallest Tower, and the Mayet Justice series. Felix was more likable in the first book of the Underbelly Enchanted series. The other FMCs, Dr. Minka Mayet and Christabelle Cannon, will not disappoint you!
August 8, 2024
*3.5 ✨ but rounded up
Overall, I really enjoyed this book! The banter between the characters was delightful, and the fact that he gardens? Swoon-worthy. However, I docked 1.5 stars because during the climax and the falling action, Tiia’s dialogue became frustrating and felt out of character compared to how she was established earlier in the story. Despite this, I still enjoyed the book and am looking forward to the next one!
As a heads-up, like the trigger warnings mention, there is on-page torture. Since Micah is the mafia enforcer, this fits the character, but it’s not my thing, so I skipped those parts, and it didn’t affect my understanding of the story.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book! The banter between the characters was delightful, and the fact that he gardens? Swoon-worthy. However, I docked 1.5 stars because during the climax and the falling action, Tiia’s dialogue became frustrating and felt out of character compared to how she was established earlier in the story. Despite this, I still enjoyed the book and am looking forward to the next one!
As a heads-up, like the trigger warnings mention, there is on-page torture. Since Micah is the mafia enforcer, this fits the character, but it’s not my thing, so I skipped those parts, and it didn’t affect my understanding of the story.
May 12, 2024
Mafia romance at the top of its game, Diamond in the Rough gives us Micah Malone, enforcer for the Malone family, deadly and focused on protecting the figure head of the family, his older brother Felix.
Micah's instincts tell him something about Tiia is 'off' however he falls for her anyway.
I did not see the twist coming and despite the revelations and some of Micah's questionable actions, I fell in love with him anyway and that is due to the incredible talent of the author who gives all her characters humanity and vulnerability in and amongst the violence and harshness of this world.
Micah's instincts tell him something about Tiia is 'off' however he falls for her anyway.
I did not see the twist coming and despite the revelations and some of Micah's questionable actions, I fell in love with him anyway and that is due to the incredible talent of the author who gives all her characters humanity and vulnerability in and amongst the violence and harshness of this world.
May 13, 2024
Another Malone has fallen!!!
Another one of Timothy's sons has fallen victim to the love of a headstrong woman. I loved falling in love with our silent observant Malone. Much like his oldest brother he keeps a lot bottled up but behind that silence is so much more. Tiia gave as good as she got from the very moment she encountered him and just like his brothers that sass was all it took to hook a Malone man. The icing on the cake was the cameos of several favorite characters and the return of "V". Thanks for making me fall in love with yet another Malone man!!!
Another one of Timothy's sons has fallen victim to the love of a headstrong woman. I loved falling in love with our silent observant Malone. Much like his oldest brother he keeps a lot bottled up but behind that silence is so much more. Tiia gave as good as she got from the very moment she encountered him and just like his brothers that sass was all it took to hook a Malone man. The icing on the cake was the cameos of several favorite characters and the return of "V". Thanks for making me fall in love with yet another Malone man!!!
May 18, 2024
4.5 Stars
I love Emilia Finn and the worlds she builds. In this story we get to know Micah Malone, quiet enforcer, and Tiia, who is harboring a secret so BIG!! I, of course, love the characters and all their wit and humor and depth of feeling. It was great to get to know Micah a bit more, as he's been a quiet wallflower character up until this point. He had a charming depth and loads and loads of feels. The only thing I knocked on this book was the ending, which came a bit too fast for me. I would like to have had a bit more time in the angst and seen Micah explore his feels a bit more.
I love Emilia Finn and the worlds she builds. In this story we get to know Micah Malone, quiet enforcer, and Tiia, who is harboring a secret so BIG!! I, of course, love the characters and all their wit and humor and depth of feeling. It was great to get to know Micah a bit more, as he's been a quiet wallflower character up until this point. He had a charming depth and loads and loads of feels. The only thing I knocked on this book was the ending, which came a bit too fast for me. I would like to have had a bit more time in the angst and seen Micah explore his feels a bit more.
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